Best Places to See Lions in Uganda: A Complete Safari Guide
Uganda is one of Africa’s most underrated safari destinations, offering dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. While the country is globally famous for mountain gorillas, Uganda is also home to a thriving population of African lions. From the iconic tree-climbing lions of Queen Elizabeth National Park to the remote savannahs of Kidepo Valley, the country offers some of the best places to see lions in Uganda on safari.
Best Places to See Lions in Uganda: A Complete Safari Guide
This comprehensive guide explores where, when, and how to see lions in Uganda, what makes each destination unique, and why Uganda should be on every wildlife enthusiast’s bucket list.
Why Uganda Is One of the Best Countries to See Lions in Africa
Uganda’s location at the crossroads of East and Central Africa gives it an exceptional range of ecosystems. Savannah plains, wetlands, crater lakes, and forested escarpments support a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and over 1,000 bird species.
What makes Uganda special for lion viewing is:
- Less crowded national parks compared to Kenya and Tanzania
- Unique lion behaviours, such as tree climbing
- Opportunities to combine lion safaris with gorilla and chimpanzee trekking
- Competitive safari prices with high-quality experiences
If you are searching for the best places to see lions in Uganda, you will find that the country offers both classic game viewing and rare, memorable encounters.
- Queen Elizabeth National Park – The Most Famous Place to See Lions in Uganda
When discussing the best places to see lions in Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park consistently tops the list.
Overview
Located in western Uganda between Lake Edward and Lake George, Queen Elizabeth National Park is the country’s most visited safari destination. The park spans over 1,978 square kilometers and supports one of the highest biodiversity concentrations in Africa.
Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha
The Ishasha sector in the southern part of the park is world-famous for its tree-climbing lions a rare behaviour seen in only a few places in Africa.
These lions are often spotted lounging in large fig trees during the heat of the day, offering exceptional photographic opportunities.
Why Ishasha is one of the best places to see lions in Uganda:
- High chances of sightings year-round
- Unique tree-climbing behaviour
- Scenic open savannah ideal for game drives
- Fewer vehicles compared to other safari hotspots
Other Lion Hotspots in Queen Elizabeth
Apart from Ishasha, lions can also be seen in:
- Kasenyi Plains – Known for classic savannah lion hunts
- Mweya Peninsula – Excellent predator-prey interactions
Best Time to See Lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park
The dry seasons (June–September and December–February) are ideal, as lions are easier to spot near water sources and on open plains.
- Murchison Falls National Park – Classic Savannah Lion Encounters
Another contender among the best places to see lions in Uganda is Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest protected area.
Overview
Situated in northwestern Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park covers over 3,840 square kilometers and is bisected by the Nile River. The park combines riverine habitats with expansive savannahs, making it ideal for large predators.
Lion Sightings in Murchison Falls
Lions in Murchison Falls are often spotted:
- Resting under acacia trees
- Hunting Uganda kob and buffalo
- Roaming the Buligi game tracks
The Buligi Peninsula is particularly renowned for reliable lion sightings.
Why Murchison Falls Is One of the Best Places to See Lions in Uganda
- Strong and stable lion population
- Open grasslands for easy visibility
- Combination of boat safaris and game drives
- Spectacular scenery, including the world’s most powerful waterfall
Unique Safari Experience
Seeing lions with the dramatic backdrop of the Nile and Murchison Falls creates a safari experience unlike anywhere else in East Africa.
- Kidepo Valley National Park – Remote and Wild Lion Territory
For travelers seeking untouched wilderness, Kidepo Valley National Park is arguably one of the best places to see lions in Uganda and the most adventurous.
Overview
Located in the far northeastern corner of Uganda near the borders of South Sudan and Kenya, Kidepo Valley is remote, rugged, and breathtakingly beautiful.
Lions of Kidepo
Kidepo’s lions are often seen:
- On rocky outcrops surveying the plains
- Hunting large herds of buffalo and zebra
- Moving in strong prides across the Narus Valley
Due to minimal human disturbance, the lions here exhibit very natural behaviour.
Why Kidepo Stands Out
- One of Africa’s least visited national parks
- Excellent predator density
- Vast open landscapes ideal for sightings
- Authentic, off-the-beaten-path safari experience
Many seasoned safari travelers consider Kidepo one of the best parks in Africa, not just Uganda.
Best Time of Year to See Lions in Uganda
Timing is crucial when planning a safari to the best places to see lions in Uganda.
Dry Season (Best for Lion Viewing)
- June to September
- December to February
During these months:
- Grass is shorter, improving visibility
- Lions congregate near water and prey
- Roads are more accessible
Wet Season (Fewer Crowds, Lush Scenery)
- March to May
- October to November
While sightings are still possible, dense vegetation can make lions harder to spot.
How to Increase Your Chances of Seeing Lions in Uganda
To maximize your experience at the best places to see lions in Uganda, consider the following tips:
Go on Early Morning and Late Afternoon Game Drives
Lions are most active during cooler hours.
Hire an Experienced Safari Guide
Local guides know lion territories and daily movement patterns.
Spend More Time in One Park
Multiple game drives significantly increase sighting chances.
Combine Parks
A safari combining Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls offers excellent odds.
Lion Conservation in Uganda
Uganda has made significant strides in lion conservation despite challenges such as habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict.
Conservation Efforts Include:
- Community education programs
- GPS tracking of lion prides
- Anti-poaching patrols
- Revenue sharing from tourism
By visiting the best places to see lions in Uganda, travelers directly contribute to conservation and local livelihoods.
Combining Lion Safaris with Other Experiences
One of Uganda’s biggest advantages is the ability to combine lion safaris with other iconic activities:
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is just a few hours from Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Chimpanzee Tracking
Kibale Forest National Park is nearby and offers excellent primate encounters.
Boat Safaris
Kazinga Channel and the Nile provide unique wildlife perspectives.
Where to Stay When Visiting Lion Parks in Uganda
Accommodation ranges from luxury lodges to budget campsites near all major lion habitats.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge, Ishasha Wilderness Camp
- Mid-range: Enganzi Lodge, Buffalo Safari Lodge
Murchison Falls National Park
- Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge
- Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge
Kidepo Valley National Park
- Luxury: Apoka Safari Lodge
- Budget: Kidepo Savannah Lodge
Staying inside or near the parks increases your chances of early and late lion sightings.
Why Uganda Should Be Your Next Lion Safari Destination
Uganda may not yet have the same international recognition as some neighbouring countries, but that is precisely its strength. The best places to see lions in Uganda offer authentic, less crowded, and deeply rewarding safari experiences.
From the iconic tree-climbing lions of Ishasha to the wild, remote prides of Kidepo Valley, Uganda delivers unforgettable encounters that rival any African safari destination.
Final Thoughts: Best Places to See Lions in Uganda
To recap, the best places to see lions in Uganda include:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park – Famous tree-climbing lions
- Murchison Falls National Park – Classic savannah and river landscapes
- Kidepo Valley National Park – Remote wilderness and high predator density
Whether you are a first-time safari traveler or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, Uganda offers exceptional lion encounters combined with stunning scenery, rich culture, and world-class conservation efforts.
If you are looking for a safari destination that is authentic, diverse, and unforgettable, the best places to see lions in Uganda are waiting for you.
At Maseke Adventure, we do not sell safaris, we design experiences that stay with you for a lifetime.
