Is a Ugandan Safari Worth It? What You Need to Know

Often overshadowed by its celebrated neighbors Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” offers a safari experience that is both profoundly unique and deeply rewarding. While it may not boast the vast, open savannas teeming with endless herds synonymous with the Serengeti or Maasai Mara, a Ugandan safari trades this for lush, bio-diverse landscapes, intimate primate encounters, and a sense of raw, untamed wilderness. But is it the right African adventure for you?

This in-depth guide explores what a Uganda safari truly entails, weighing its undeniable draws against its practical considerations to help you decide.

The Crown Jewels: Primates Galore

The undeniable centerpiece of any Ugandan safari is the opportunity to come face-to-face with our closest relatives in the animal kingdom. Uganda is a world-class destination for primate trekking, offering encounters that are both humbling and exhilarating.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking: Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, primarily residing in the misty, ancient rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The trek to find a habituated gorilla family can be challenging, involving hikes through dense vegetation and up steep inclines. However, the reward is an unforgettable hour spent in quiet observation of these gentle giants as they feed, play, and interact in their natural habitat. This is a wildlife encounter of profound connection and a major reason why many travelers choose Uganda.

Chimpanzee Trekking: Kibale National Park is arguably the best place in East Africa for chimpanzee trekking, boasting a high success rate of sightings. Unlike the more serene observation of gorillas, tracking chimpanzees is a dynamic and often thrilling experience, following them as they swing through the forest canopy, communicate with loud calls, and go about their complex social lives.

Beyond the Primates: A Diverse Wildlife Tapestry

While primates may steal the spotlight, Uganda’s national parks offer a rich and varied safari experience.

• Queen Elizabeth National Park: This diverse park is famous for its tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector, a rare behavior not commonly seen in other parts of Africa. It also offers classic game drives to spot elephants, buffalo, leopards, and a plethora of antelope species, alongside a scenic boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, which is teeming with hippos, crocodiles, and a remarkable variety of birdlife.
• Murchison Falls National Park: Uganda’s largest national park is bisected by the Nile River, which dramatically funnels through a narrow gorge to create the powerful Murchison Falls. Boat safaris to the base of the falls are a highlight, offering sightings of elephants, giraffes, and abundant birdlife along the banks. Game drives on the northern plains are also rewarding.
• Kidepo Valley National Park: Tucked away in the remote northeastern corner of the country, Kidepo is a true wilderness area, offering a sense of untouched Africa. Its rugged savannas are home to large herds of buffalo, as well as lions, cheetahs, and ostriches.

Uganda vs. The Safari Giants: A Comparative Look

The Financial Reality: Breaking Down the Costs

A Uganda safari can be more affordable than a comparable trip to some of its more famous neighbors, with one significant caveat: the primate trekking permits. As of late 2024, a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs $800 for foreign non-residents, while a chimpanzee trekking permit in Kibale is around $250.

A mid-range 7 to 10-day safari, including accommodation, transport, park fees, and one gorilla permit, can range from $3,000 to $5,000 per person. This can fluctuate based on the level of luxury, the number of parks visited, and the mode of transportation (road travel vs. domestic flights).

The Ideal Traveler for a Ugandan Safari

A Ugandan safari is a perfect fit for:

• Primate Enthusiasts: For those whose primary goal is to see gorillas and chimpanzees in the wild, Uganda is unparalleled.
• Seasoned Safari Goers: If you’ve already experienced the classic savannas of Kenya or Tanzania, Uganda offers a different and equally captivating dimension to the African safari.
• Active and Adventurous Travelers: The trekking involved in primate encounters and the option for activities like hiking and white-water rafting on the Nile appeal to those with an adventurous spirit.
• Birdwatchers: With over 1,000 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork, Uganda is a birder’s paradise.
• Travelers Seeking a More Intimate Experience: With fewer crowds in many of its parks, Uganda can offer a more personal and off-the-beaten-path feel.

Potential Challenges and Downsides

• Infrastructure: While improving, some roads can be rough and travel times between parks can be long.
• Weather: Uganda’s tropical climate means rain is possible at any time, which can make trekking more challenging.
• Physical Demands: Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking can be strenuous and require a reasonable level of fitness. 
• Cost of Permits: The high cost of primate permits can be a significant budget consideration.

The Verdict: Is It Worth It?

For the traveler who dreams of more than just ticking off the “Big Five,” a Ugandan safari is unequivocally worth it. The experience of seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is a rare and precious privilege that leaves a lasting impact. The diversity of landscapes, from dense rain forests to rolling savannas, combined with the warmth and hospitality of the Ugandan people, creates a rich and multifaceted adventure.

While it may not offer the sheer volume of wildlife seen on the plains of the Serengeti, Uganda provides a more intimate, immersive, and arguably more varied journey into the heart of Africa. If your idea of the perfect safari includes trekking through ancient forests to witness the complex lives of our primate cousins, then the “Pearl of Africa” is not just worth it—it’s an experience of a lifetime.

Planning to visit Uganda on safari adventure- whether you are traveling alone, as a couple, family or small group- we at Uganda Car Rental Service will be more than delighted to offer you our services. Simply contact us now by sending an email to info@ugandacarrentalservices.com or call us on +256-700135510 to speak with the reservations team.