Where to See Lions, Elephants & More

Most travelers recognize Uganda for its famous mountain gorillas, but the country also offers a spectacular Uganda Big Five safari experience. Historically, the “Big Five” referred to the five most difficult African animals to hunt on foot: the Lion, Leopard, African Elephant, Cape Buffalo, and rhinoceros. Today, these animals represent the pinnacle of wildlife photography and sightseeing.

Uganda is one of the few places on earth where you can combine a savannah Uganda Big Five safari with a trek to see primates. Because the country features diverse ecosystems ranging from open plains to high-altitude forests, you must visit specific parks to see every member of this elite group.

Where to Find the Big Five in Uganda

To see all five animals, you generally need to visit at least two locations. While most savannah parks host four of the members, the Rhinoceros lives exclusively in a protected sanctuary.

1. Murchison Falls National Park

As Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, Murchison Falls is the crown jewel for wildlife enthusiasts. The Nile River bisects the park, creating a lush habitat for massive herds of Elephants and Cape buffalo. During a morning game drive, you can easily spot Lions prowling the Borassus palm-dotted plains. Leopards often hide in the riverine woodland, so keep your eyes on the thick branches of the trees.

The park also protects three-quarters of the world’s endangered Rothschild’s giraffes and the endemic Patas monkey. On a boat cruise to the base of the world’s most powerful waterfall, you will see thousands of Hippos and Nile Crocodiles lining the banks. For birders, the Lake Albert Delta provides the best chance to spot the rare, prehistoric Shoebill stork.

2. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Because rhinos became locally extinct in Uganda during the 1980s, the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary now serves as their primary home. Located conveniently on the road to Murchison Falls, this sanctuary allows you to track White Rhinos on foot. This encounter is a mandatory stop for anyone wanting to complete their Uganda Big Five safari checklist.

Today, the sanctuary hosts a growing population of over 50 southern white rhinos, protected 24/7 by armed rangers. Beyond tracking, the 7,000-hectare ranch offers canoe rides through the Lugogo Swamp to spot the rare Shoebill stork. You can also explore the savanna on guided nature walks to see leopards, kobs, and nearly 350 bird species. For an immersive stay, Amuka Safari Lodge provides comfortable chalets right in the heart of the rhino habitat.

3. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park remains the most popular destination in the country. It is famous for the Tree-Climbing Lions of the Ishasha sector. Here, lions lounge in the branches of ancient fig trees to escape the heat. The park also hosts thousands of buffalo and Elephants, particularly along the shores of the Kazinga Channel.

For a unique perspective, a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel brings you safely close to one of the world’s highest concentrations of Hippos and massive Nile Crocodiles. Beyond the savannah, you can plunge into the “Valley of Apes,” the lush Kyambura Gorge, to track habituated Chimpanzees. The park also serves as a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 600 species, including the rare Shoebill stork and seasonal flamingos at the Katwe Salt Lake. This volcanic landscape, dotted with dramatic explosion craters, ensures your Uganda Big Five safari includes breathtaking scenery alongside its diverse wildlife.

4. Kidepo Valley National Park

If you prefer a remote, “true” wilderness, Kidepo Valley in the far northeast is your best choice. CNN once named it one of the best parks in Africa. It boasts the largest herds of buffalo in the world and offers incredible sightings of lions and leopards against a backdrop of rugged mountains.

The Narus Valley serves as the park’s heartbeat, drawing thirsty wildlife during the dry season. Here, you can find the only Cheetahs in Uganda alongside vast herds of Jackson’s hartebeest and Rothschild’s giraffes. For a cultural twist, visit the nearby Manyattas to learn about the Karamojong people’s traditional pastoralist lifestyle. The sheer isolation of Kidepo ensures your Uganda Big Five safari remains private and untouched by heavy tourist crowds.

Comparison of Big Five Destinations

Planning Your 2026 Big Five Itinerary

To maximize your chances of seeing all these animals, you should plan a circuit. A typical 7-day or 10-day trip usually begins with the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to see the rhinos. Afterward, travelers head north to Murchison Falls for the lions and elephants. Finally, many visitors continue south to Queen Elizabeth National Park to find the tree-climbing lions and leopards.

The Best Time to Visit

The dry seasons from June to August and December to February provide the best conditions for a Uganda Big Five safari. During these months, animals congregate around water sources like the Nile and the Kazinga Channel. Furthermore, the grass remains short, which makes it much easier to spot elusive predators like the leopard.

Essential Gear for Your Trip

• Binoculars: Essential for spotting leopards in trees.

• Telephoto Lens: Capture clear shots of lions from a safe distance.

• Neutral Clothing: Wear khaki or green to blend into the environment.

• Sun Protection: The Ugandan sun can be intense during midday game drives.

Beyond the Big Five

While the Big Five attract the most attention, Uganda offers much more. During your drives, you will encounter Rothschild’s giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope species like the Uganda Kob. If you have extra time, many travelers add a gorilla trekking permit to their itinerary to create a truly comprehensive African wildlife experience.

Explore with Jackal Adventures

A Uganda Big Five safari offers more than just animal sightings; it provides a deep connection to the African wild. At Jackal Adventures, we understand that every traveler has different priorities. Our experienced guides know the secret hideouts of leopards and the best times to find lions on the hunt. We handle all the logistics, from park entries and vehicle rentals to comfortable lodge bookings, ensuring a stress-free journey through Uganda’s wilderness.

We pride ourselves on sustainable tourism practices that protect the very animals you come to see. By traveling with Jackal Adventures, you support local conservation efforts and community development. Whether you want to witness the thunderous Murchison Falls or track rhinos through the bush, we create an itinerary that brings your dream safari to life.