Uganda National Parks & Game Reserves

The natural splendour of Uganda has not gone unnoticed. In 1909, Sir Winston Churchill referred to it as “the Pearl of Africa,” a phrase that is now commonly expressed by modern travellers who admire the nation’s diverse populations, wildlife, and ecosystems.

Uganda is situated at the confluence of western and eastern Africa. The highland rainforests harbour the renowned Mountain Gorillas and an abundance of exquisite avifauna; the tropical rainforests are inhabited by chimpanzees, while the savannas are filled by large mammals. This elucidates the many environments, encompassing woods, wetlands, moorlands, mountains, rivers, and lakes, with over 20% of the nation being water-covered.

It is unsurprising that Lonely Planet designated Uganda as the top destination on its Best in Travel list for 2012, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the nation’s independence. Although years have elapsed since that time, the country’s splendour remains undiminished. In a nation characterised by superlatives—the largest free-standing volcano globally, the second-largest freshwater lake, Africa’s highest mountain range, and the source of the world’s longest river—how does one select the most worthwhile activities in Uganda?

Uganda’s ten national parks, its reputation as one of Africa’s premier birding locales (boasting approximately 1,050 species—50% of the continent’s total and 11% globally), its 18 primate species, and its extensive array of outdoor pursuits, such as fishing, mountaineering, rafting, community-based ecotourism, and cultural tourism, can easily induce a sense of overwhelm.

To assist in refining your options, below is an overview of the Uganda National Parks available for exploration on an Jomert small-group or private group Uganda safari.