Are you dreaming of a classic African safari? Then seeing The Big Five in Uganda should be at the top of your travel bucket list. Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, is not only famous for gorilla trekking and lush green landscapes but also offers unforgettable Big Five safari experiences. In this guide, we will take you through each of the Big Five animals and the best places in Uganda to spot them.
What Are the Big Five?
The term “Big Five” was originally coined by big-game hunters to refer to the five most challenging animals to hunt on foot. Today, it stands for the five most iconic and sought-after animals on an African safari. These are: Lion, Leopards, Elephants, Buffaloes and Rhinos.
Where to See the Big Five in Uganda
1. Lions – The Kings of the Jungle
Uganda is home to both savannah lions and the unique tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, found in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Spotting lions resting in fig trees is a rare and thrilling sight you can only witness in a few places in Africa.
Best places to see lions in Uganda
- Queen Elizabeth National Park (Ishasha Sector)
- Murchison Falls National Park
- Kidepo Valley National Park
2. Leopards – The Elusive Predators
Leopards are shy and mostly nocturnal, making them the most difficult of the Big Five to spot. However, with a skilled guide, your chances are high during evening or early morning game drives.
Best places to see leopards in Uganda:
- Murchison Falls National Park
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Lake Mburo National Park
3. African Elephants – The Gentle Giants
Uganda is home to the largest population of elephants in East Africa. These giants roam freely through the savannahs and forests, often moving in large herds.
Best places to see elephants in Uganda:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Murchison Falls National Park
- Kidepo Valley National Park
In Murchison, you will see both savannah and forest elephants, sometimes bathing near the Nile River.
4. Buffaloes – The Mighty Herds
Buffaloes are found in massive herds and are among the most commonly seen Big Five members. They are strong, tough, and known to be unpredictable.
Best places to see buffaloes in Uganda:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Lake Mburo National Park
- Murchison Falls National Park
You can often spot them wallowing in muddy pools or grazing in open grasslands.
5. Rhinos – The Rare Beauty
Rhinos went extinct in Uganda’s wild due to poaching, but thanks to conservation efforts, they are making a comeback. The only place to see them is at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
Best place to see rhinos in Uganda:
- Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (near Murchison Falls National Park)
Ziwa offers guided walking safaris where you can safely track rhinos on foot—an unforgettable experience.
Best Safari Parks in Uganda for Big Five Viewing
If your goal is to see all Big Five animals on a single trip, we recommend the following itinerary:
- Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – for rhinos
- Murchison Falls National Park – for elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes
- Queen Elizabeth National Park – for lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes
Want something wilder and off the beaten path? Add Kidepo Valley National Park for a remote and raw African safari experience.
Tips for a Successful Big Five Safari in Uganda
Hire a knowledgeable local guide – Dark Hills Uganda offers expert-guided safaris with deep knowledge of wildlife behavior and tracking.
Choose early morning or evening game drives – Wildlife is more active and easier to spot.
Pack a good pair of binoculars – Great for spotting leopards and distant herds.
Bring a camera with a zoom lens – You will want to capture these memories up close.
Why Choose Uganda for Your Big Five Safari?
Unlike the crowded safari parks of other African countries, Uganda offers less touristy, more personal wildlife experiences. You won’t be lining up with dozens of jeeps to see a lion. Instead, you’ll enjoy intimate sightings, breathtaking scenery, and warm local hospitality.
At Dark Hills Uganda, we create custom safari experiences based on your interests and travel time. Whether you’re interested in a classic Big Five Safari, combining it with gorilla trekking, or adding cultural experiences, we’ve got you covered.
Plan Your Big Five Safari with Dark Hills Uganda
