What Animals Can I See In Uganda?

Uganda is a captivating destination renowned for its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and diverse wildlife. From the serene waters of Lake Victoria to the misty heights of the Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda offers a plethora of natural wonders and unforgettable experiences.

In fact, Uganda stands out as one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations, with amazing animals to see! Boasting unique encounters such as gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, watching tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and spotting rare bird species in the Mabamba Swamp.

Are you ready to explore the incredible animal world that Uganda has to offer?

Calling all nature enthusiasts, let’s embark on an adventure to discover what animals you can see in Uganda!

Uganda: A Wildlife Lover’s Paradise

You are stepping into the lush, green wilderness of Uganda. You encounter extraordinary wildlife at every moment. Trekking through dense forests, savannas, and wetlands, you hear nature greeting you. Chirping birds, rustling leaves, and distant animal calls. “Prrrrrrr”… says the trumpeting elephant in the near distant. Uganda is a paradise for wildlife lovers, offering unforgettable experiences and a chance to connect deeply with nature and see amazing animals. But what animals will you be able to encounter? And where can you best spot them?

Get your binoculars out and get ready for wildlife lover’s paradise.

Elephants in Murchison Falls National Park

Did you know that elephant herds have a female leader? #WhoRunTheWorld 😊

We wouldn’t give Africa’s Big Five enough justice if we didn’t include elephants as one of the most amazing animals to see in Uganda. Where can you best spot them? In no other than Murchison Falls National Park! Uganda’s largest national park is definitely among the best places to see elephants in Uganda.

The gentle giants of Uganda roam the savannas and woodlands of the national park, often seen in large herds. Elephants are renowned for their impressive size, intelligence, and vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of their diverse habitats. On a usual day, these majestic creatures knock down trees to access food, creating open spaces that benefit other wildlife species. A true integral part for the park’s ecosystem.

And who doesn’t love elephants?

Rhinos at Ziwa Rhinos Sanctuary

Next in line are the armored giants of the Savanna: rhinos!

Part of Africa’s Big Five, you will not want to miss these beautiful creatures while in Uganda. But don’t expect to randomly run into these animals on your safari. The only place where you can see rhinos in Uganda is at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. The sanctuary protects and breeds both black and white rhinos to help increase their population. The rhinos in Uganda are a true conservation success story! Being gradually reintroduced to the wild after facing near extinction due to poaching.

Since it’s official opening in 2005, the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary now has 22 rhinos roaming around. The best part about it? A guided rhino trekking safari at Ziwa Rhino Sancutary lets you get up close to these impressive animals. All while learning about their behavior and conservation efforts. Yes, you will be able to stand next to these armored giants. A true wildlife encounter!

Hippos & Crocodiles in the Kazinga Channel

In the dynamic waterways of Uganda, who reigns supreme? Hippos and crocodiles! Where to best spot them? At Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Hippos typically spend most of their day laying in the water to keep cool. Only at night, hippos make their way out the water to graze on grass. Yes, hippos are herbivores aka vegetarians. But don’t think that hippos aren’t dangerous because they don’t want to eat you! Hippos are the most dangerous animals in Africa. They are extremely territorial and can become aggressive, especially if their space is invaded. So be careful!

Another animal you will be able to see while in Uganda are crocodiles. Crocs play a crucial role in the ecosystem in the wild by regulating the population of prey species and helping to maintain the balance of the aquatic ecosystem. Which brings us to where you can best spot hippos & crocodiles: The Kazinga Channel! The Kazinga Channel, which is inhabited by hippos and Nile crocodiles, is a 32-kilometer (20 miles) long natural waterway that connects Lake George to Lake Edward in Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park. The Kazinga Channel is a true haven for hippos and crocodiles alike!

A boat safari in Queen Elizabeth Park along the channel offers an up-close look at these aquatic creatures. Watch as hippos wallow in the water and crocodiles bask on the banks, alongside a variety of bird species. The dense concentration of wildlife along the channel makes for a truly immersive experience.

But that’s not all Queen Elizabeth National Park has in petto for us. Another animal to see in Uganda awaits at this national park for us.

Tree-Climbing Lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park

What animal is the spirit animal of the African wilderness? Of course, the majestic lion, our “King of the Jungle”.

Yes, you’ll definitely see lions while in Uganda. But did you realize you are going to see tree-climbing lions in Uganda? Tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park are a unique and fascinating phenomenon. In the Ishasha sector of Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park, a unique population of lions has developed the rare behavior of climbing trees. You read that right! They have been climbing trees for generations to avoid insect bites, to cool off, enhance visibility for prey, and to relax together in a safe and comfortable environment.

The tree-climbing lions are a true captivating sight. Their unusual arboreal lifestyle offers visitors a remarkable and rare wildlife experience, distinguishing them from other lion populations across Africa. Queen Elizabeth National Park is the first lion population that has adapted this kind of behavior and it has been passed down generations since.

Driving through this area, you have the chance to witness these majestic predators in a unique setting. What else can you spot in Queen Elizabeth National Park? Elephants, buffaloes, and leopards. Among many others 😉

From one unique wildlife encounter to the next, another animal you’ll be able to see in Uganda are golden monkeys.

Golden Monkeys in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is not only home to the world famous mountain gorillas but also to the endangered golden monkeys! What makes golden monkeys in Uganda unique among primates? They are endemic to the Virunga volcanic mountains and are known for their striking golden-orange fur. They live in large social groups of up to 30 individuals and have a diet primarily consisting of bamboo shoots, making their habitat in the bamboo forests of the park both crucial and unique.

Join a guided trek to see golden monkeys leaping through the bamboo forests. These striking primates, with their golden fur and playful nature, are a delight to watch. An experience that adds a splash of color to your wildlife adventure in Uganda.

The most iconic animal you’ll be able to see in Uganda?

Because you are putting us on the spot here, we have to say: the mountain gorillas!

Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

We might be a bit prejudiced but the most iconic animal in Uganda you’ll be able to see are the mountain gorillas. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to nearly half of the world’s population of these magnificent creatures. By joining a guided gorilla trek, you’ll be able to see them in the dense forest. We are sure this will make your hearts race with excitement. Why? Because you could come face-to-face with a family of gorillas.

During your gorilla trekking experience in Uganda, you are immersing yourself in the life of the gentle giants. In their natural habitat, you’ll see the little ones play with each other. Racing through the forests while their parents watch over them. All while the protective silverback male makes sure everyone is safe. This experience is a truly moving moment leaving long lasting impact.

Known for their incredible strength, gorillas are surprisingly peaceful and primarily herbivorous, consuming a varied diet of leaves, stems, and fruits. Uganda’s conservation efforts have been pivotal in increasing their population, making it one of the few places in the world where these majestic creatures can be observed in their natural habitat. How can you top that?

Transitioning from the serene forests of Bwindi, let’s swing over to Kibale National Park, where another iconic animal awaits: the chimpanzee!

Chimpanzees in Kibale National Park

You’ll be able to see chimpanzees in their natural habitat at Kibale National Park. Chimpanzees in Uganda display remarkable behaviors like tool use, social bonding, and complex communication. They thrive in diverse habitats, forming communities of up to 150 individuals. These intelligent and social primates share 98% of their DNA with humans. 98%!

Observing them reveals playful antics, intricate grooming, and dynamic social hierarchies, offering a glimpse into the sophisticated world of our closest relatives.

Kibale National Park is by far the best place to see chimpanzees in Uganda. A guided chimpanzee trekking tour offers a unique opportunity to observe these primates up close. Listen to their calls, watch them groom each other, and witness their playful behavior. This intimate encounter provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of our closest relatives. An animal we would not want you to miss!

Huh, who do we have here? The elegant giraffe saying hello!

Giraffes in Lake Mburo National Park

With their elegant necks stretching toward the sky, giraffes in Uganda gracefully wander the savannas, captivating everyone with their serene beauty.

Is there anyone who doesn’t love giraffes? Lake Mburo National Park is a great place to see giraffes in Uganda.

You can often see these graceful animals browsing on acacia trees, their long necks reaching high into the branches. A game drive or a walking safari in the park provides excellent opportunities to observe giraffes. In their natural habitat, you can admire them along zebras, impalas, and other wildlife.

If there are giraffes, zebras are not far 😊

Zebras in Kidepo Valley National Park

In Uganda’s golden savannas, zebras elegantly stride, their distinctive stripes adding a touch of artistry to the wilderness. How do zebras’ unique stripes contribute to their survival in the wild? Zebras’ unique stripes serve as a form of camouflage, making it difficult for predators, such as lions and hyenas, to single out individual zebras within a herd.

The disruptive coloration also helps to confuse predators, making it challenging for them to judge the speed and direction of a fleeing zebra. Also, the stripes may play a role in regulating the zebra’s body temperature by creating air currents and repelling biting insects.

Kidepo Valley National Park is one of the best places to see zebras in Uganda. This remote and stunning park is home to large herds of zebras that graze on the open plains. A game drive through the park offers breathtaking views of zebras. But more animals are not far! Observe zebras along with elephants, buffaloes, and a variety of antelope species. The dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife make Kidepo Valley a must-visit destination.

Transitioning from land to sky, Uganda is a birdwatcher’s paradise!

Birds in Murchison Falls National Park

Boasting over 450 bird species, you’ll encounter a variety of different birds while there. Species such as the vibrant Abyssinian ground hornbill and the elegant Goliath heron, making Uganda one of the most diverse avian habitats.

Murchison Falls National Park is an ideal destination for birdwatching. The park offers a diverse habitat that attract a wide variety of bird species. Look out for the iconic shoebill stork, African fish eagle, and colorful kingfishers. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a casual observer, the birdlife in Uganda will leave you in awe.

Embrace the Wild Side of Uganda

Uganda’s diverse landscapes and rich wildlife make it a top destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Whether you’re trekking with gorillas in Bwindi, watching tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth, or enjoying a boat safari on the Nile – Uganda offers endless opportunities for unforgettable wildlife encounters.

So pack your bags, bring your camera, and get ready to explore the amazing animals of Uganda. Your adventure in the Pearl of Africa awaits!