Best Uganda Safaris & Holidays 2025/26 – Discover the Pearl of Africa

Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, continues to stand out as one of the most diverse and rewarding safari destinations in the world. Blessed with spectacular landscapes, rare wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, the country offers something for every kind of traveler — from first-time adventurers to seasoned explorers.

The 2025/26 safari season promises even more unforgettable experiences, with upgraded lodges, improved park access, and eco-friendly travel options that make exploring Uganda easier and more meaningful. Whether you dream of locking eyes with a mountain gorilla, watching tree-climbing lions in the savannah, or cruising the mighty River Nile, Uganda guarantees a journey filled with wonder, authenticity, and connection.

Here are the best Uganda safaris and holidays for 2025/26 — handpicked to inspire your next African adventure.

1. Gorilla Trekking Safari in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

No safari in Uganda is complete without meeting the gentle giants of Bwindi. Trekking through the misty forest to spend an hour with a family of mountain gorillas is one of the most moving wildlife encounters on Earth.

Bwindi hosts over 20 habituated gorilla families, and visitors can also opt for the Gorilla Habituation Experience, which allows up to four hours with a semi-habituated group.

Highlights:

• Close-up encounter with endangered mountain gorillas.

• Lush forest treks and scenic views of the Virunga Mountains.

• Community visits with the Batwa pygmies.

Ideal Duration: 3–5 days
Best Time to Visit: June–September and December–February

2. Murchison Falls Safari – The Nile’s Roaring Power

The Murchison Falls National Park safari offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Watch as the world’s longest river crashes through a narrow gorge to form the most powerful waterfall on Earth.

The park teems with wildlife — elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and big cats — making it a great choice for classic game drives and river safaris.

Highlights:

• Boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls.

• Game drives in Buligi and Paraa areas.

• Birding in the Nile Delta (Shoebill sightings).

• Stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary en route from Kampala.

Ideal Duration: 3–4 days
Best Time to Visit: December–February and June–September

3. Chimpanzee Trekking Holiday in Kibale Forest

Known as the Primate Capital of the World, Kibale Forest National Park offers some of the best chimpanzee tracking in East Africa. The experience is energetic and lively as you watch chimps leap between trees, call to each other, and display fascinating behaviors.

The forest also shelters 12 other primate species, as well as forest elephants and butterflies.

Highlights:

• Guided chimpanzee trekking and habituation experiences.

• Nature walks in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.

• Birdwatching with species like the Green-breasted Pitta.

Ideal Duration: 2–3 days
Best Time to Visit: December–March and June–September

4. Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari – Lions, Lakes & Landscapes

Uganda’s most iconic savannah park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, is where wildlife and scenery combine beautifully. Expect game drives across the Kasenyi Plains, a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, and sightings of tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha Sector.

The park’s diverse ecosystems — from grasslands to crater lakes — support over 95 mammal species and 600 bird species.

Highlights:

• Classic Big Five game drives.

• Boat safari on the Kazinga Channel.

• Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha.

• Scenic crater lake exploration.

Ideal Duration: 3–5 days
Best Time to Visit: June–September and December–February

5. Kidepo Valley Safari – Uganda’s Wild Frontier

For travelers seeking raw beauty and isolation, Kidepo Valley National Park offers the ultimate off-the-beaten-path safari. Set against rugged mountains and open plains, Kidepo feels untouched by time.

Lions, cheetahs, giraffes, buffaloes, and elephants roam freely here, and the park’s rich culture offers encounters with the Karamojong people, whose traditions echo those of the Maasai.

Highlights:

• Rare cheetah and lion sightings.

• Karamojong cultural experiences.

• Stunning landscapes and photographic safaris.

Ideal Duration: 4–6 days
Best Time to Visit: September–March (dry season).

6. Lake Mburo Safari – Relaxed Wildlife Encounters

Just a few hours from Kampala, Lake Mburo National Park is perfect for short safaris or weekend escapes. It’s the best place in Uganda to see zebras, eland, and impalas.

What makes Lake Mburo special is its variety of activities — walking safaris, horse rides, boat cruises, and even night drives for spotting leopards.

Highlights:

• Walking and cycling safaris.

• Boat rides on Lake Mburo.

• Great birding and close-up wildlife viewing.

Ideal Duration: 2–3 days
Best Time to Visit: June–August and December–February

7. Adventure Holiday in Jinja – Source of the Nile

Known as the Adventure Capital of East Africa, Jinja offers thrilling experiences for adrenaline lovers. Here, the River Nile begins its long journey from Lake Victoria, creating perfect conditions for white-water rafting, kayaking, and bungee jumping.

After the excitement, unwind with a sunset cruise, visit local craft markets, or explore the Source of the Nile monument.

Highlights:

• White-water rafting and quad biking.

• Nile River cruises and bungee jumping.

• Horseback safaris and local cultural tours.

Ideal Duration: 2–3 days
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though water levels are best between June and October.

8. Cultural and Community Safaris

Beyond wildlife, Uganda’s greatest treasure is its people. Cultural safaris in 2025/26 will allow travelers to experience authentic village life, local cuisine, and traditional music.

From the Batwa pygmies of Bwindi to the Bagisu tribe of Mount Elgon, Uganda’s communities offer warm hospitality and stories that bring the country’s soul to life.

Highlights:

• Batwa trail experiences.

• Coffee tours, craft workshops, and traditional dance.

• Homestays and cultural immersion.

Ideal Duration: 2–4 days
Best Time to Visit: Anytime, depending on location.

9. Birding Safaris – Uganda’s Feathered Paradise

Uganda is Africa’s top birding destination, with over 1,090 bird species recorded. Whether in wetlands, forests, or savannahs, birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of the Shoebill Stork, Great Blue Turaco, Papyrus Gonolek, and countless others.

Top Birding Sites: Mabamba Swamp, Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, Kibale, and Murchison Falls.
Best Time to Visit: November–April (for migratory species).

10. Combined Gorilla & Wildlife Safaris

For a complete Ugandan experience, combine gorilla trekking with savannah wildlife adventures. These safaris blend the intimacy of gorilla encounters with the thrill of game drives and boat safaris, creating a perfect all-round holiday.

Sample Itinerary:

• Days 1–2: Arrival & Kampala city tour.

• Days 3–4: Kibale for chimp trekking.

• Days 5–6: Queen Elizabeth for game drives.

• Days 7–8: Bwindi for gorilla trekking.

• Day 9: Lake Bunyonyi relaxation.

• Day 10: Return to Entebbe.

Ideal Duration: 10–14 days

Best Time to Visit Uganda for Safaris (2025/26)

The dry seasons (June–September and December–February) are ideal for gorilla trekking, game drives, and general travel comfort. The green seasons (March–May and October–November) bring vibrant vegetation, migratory birds, and fewer crowds — perfect for photographers and budget travelers.

Why Choose Uganda in 2025/26

• Affordable gorilla permits ($800 compared to Rwanda’s $1,500).

• Year-round safari destination with diverse ecosystems.

• Safe and welcoming environment with friendly people.

• Sustainable tourism growth supporting wildlife conservation and local communities.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a meaningful connection with nature, Uganda in 2025/26 is ready to welcome you with open arms and untamed beauty. From the misty peaks of Bwindi to the roaring waters of Murchison Falls, every journey here feels like a rediscovery of Africa’s wild soul.