Uganda or the “Pearl of Africa,” as it’s referred, is perhaps the most underrated safari destinations in Africa. This is because many people haven’t had the opportunity to visit Uganda, but here is what you should know: Uganda offers you a chance to see the BIG Five without breaking your bank account, and with a less crowded encounters inside the parks — less JEEPS!

The most iconic and sought-after wildlife, the lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros, can be seen in Uganda. Furthermore, Uganda is one of the only two places in the world where you can go trekking mountain gorillas. Uganda offers several national parks and reserves where you can spot these animals:

1. Kabalega National Park commonly known as Murchison Falls National Park: This is one of the best places to see four of the Big Five: elephants, lions, buffalos, and leopards. The park presents visitors with opportunity to not only see the big five, but also to see its spectacular waterfall and diverse birdlife.
2. Queen Elizabeth National Park: Immerse yourself into this paradise spotting four of the big five. The park is known for its tree-climbing lions, and a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel where one can see hippos, crocodiles, and countless bird species.
3. Kidepo Valley National Park: This park is located in the remote northeastern part of Uganda, and it’s known for its rugged beauty coupled with high concentrations of wildlife, including zebras, lions, buffaloes, leopards, giraffes, and elephants.
4. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: To complete the Big Five experience, Ziwa rhino sanctuary offers you the opportunity to go on a guided walking safari to see white rhinos.
5. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: This is where you can go trekking mountain gorilla on a guided guarded experience and get to hang out with them, take pictures, and enjoy the lush greenery.

Plus more!

Lake Victoria, is the world’s largest tropical lake and the second-largest freshwater lake by surface area, covering approximately 68,800 square kilometers (26,600 square miles). The lake’s primary inflows are from the Kagera River, which originates in Burundi, and other rivers such as the Mara and the Katonga. The main outflow is the Nile River, which starts its journey towards the Mediterranean Sea from Lake Victoria’s northern shores at Jinja, Uganda.

The Mighty Nile River: The world’s longest river starts its journey right here in Uganda, then travels for more 4,000 miles and pours into the Mediterranean Sea. I am truly sorry if you are considering to come on a safari to Africa, and Uganda isn’t on your list, because an authentic African safari isn’t complete without exploring Uganda. See you in there!