Uganda is a land of extraordinary wildlife, and no safari experience is complete without encountering the famed “Big Five”: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. Each member of this group carries its own magic and majesty. Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park offer excellent sightings of lions and elephants, while the elusive leopard prowls the savannahs, often spotted in the early mornings or late evenings.

African buffalo roam in massive herds and can be seen cooling off in muddy wallows. Rhinos, once extinct in the wild in Uganda, can now be seen at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a major conservation success story. Guided safaris maximize your chances to see all five. Beyond the Big Five, Uganda is home to unique species like tree-climbing lions, shoebill storks, and mountain gorillas, making it truly diverse.