Top 10 Must-See National Parks in Uganda and Rwanda for an Unforgettable Safari
Discover the top 10 national parks in Uganda and Rwanda, from gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park to Big Five safaris in Queen Elizabeth and Akagera. Your ultimate East African safari guide with Maseke Adventures.
When planning an East African safari, Uganda and Rwanda stand out as two of the most spectacular destinations for wildlife and adventure lovers. These countries offer mountain gorilla trekking, Big Five safaris, birdwatching, chimpanzee tracking, and breathtaking landscapes.
If you’re wondering where to go, here’s the ultimate list of the top 10 must-see national parks in Uganda and Rwanda.
1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is famous for being home to nearly half of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking here is often described as a life-changing experience.
Highlights:
• Gorilla trekking and habituation experiences
• Birdwatching (over 350 species)
• Cultural tours to the Batwa communities
Best Time to Visit: June–September and December–February (dry season).
2. Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)
Located in Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains, Volcanoes National Park offers one of the most accessible and rewarding gorilla trekking experiences in Africa.
Highlights:
• Gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking
• Hiking Mount Bisoke or Mount Karisimbi
• Visit Dian Fossey’s research center
Tip: Volcanoes NP is perfect for travelers with limited time, as it’s just 2.5 hours from Kigali.
3. Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda)
Famous for tree-climbing lions in its Ishasha sector, Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most popular safari park.
Highlights:
• Game drives with elephants, buffalo, and lions
• Boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel
• Over 600 bird species
4. Akagera National Park (Rwanda)
For a Big Five safari in Rwanda, Akagera National Park offers open savannahs, lakes, and wetlands ideal for game drives and boat trips.
Highlights:
• The Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos
• Scenic boat safaris on Lake Ihema
• Night game drives
5. Kibale National Park (Uganda)
Known as the “Primate Capital of the World,” Kibale is the best place for chimpanzee trekking.
Highlights:
• Chimpanzee habituation experiences
• 12+ primate species including colobus monkeys
• Birding (350+ species)
6. Nyungwe Forest National Park (Rwanda)
This ancient rainforest is one of Africa’s most diverse ecosystems.
Highlights:
• Chimpanzee trekking and canopy walks
• Colobus monkey tracking
• Over 300 bird species
7. Murchison Falls National Park (Uganda)
Home to the dramatic Murchison Falls—where the Nile River explodes through a narrow gorge—this park is ideal for wildlife safaris.
Highlights:
• Game drives with giraffes, lions, and elephants
• Boat cruises to the base of the falls
• Hiking to the top of Murchison Falls
8. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Uganda)
Part of the Virunga Conservation Area, Mgahinga offers both gorilla trekking and golden monkey tracking.
Highlights:
• Gorilla trekking in smaller groups than Bwindi
• Hiking Mount Sabinyo, Muhabura, or Gahinga
• Batwa cultural trails
9. Lake Mburo National Park (Uganda)
A compact park known for its zebra herds, Lake Mburo is perfect for walking safaris and horse riding.
Highlights:
• Boat safaris on Lake Mburo
• Guided walking safaris among antelope and zebra
• Birdwatching (300+ species)
10. Rwenzori Mountains National Park (Uganda)
Known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” this park is perfect for trekking enthusiasts.
Highlights:
• Snow-capped peaks and glaciers
• Multi-day trekking routes
• Unique alpine flora
Planning Your Safari in Uganda and Rwanda
To make the most of your East African adventure:
• Best Time to Visit: June–September or December–February (dry season).
• What to Pack: Lightweight clothes, trekking boots, insect repellent, and a good camera.
• Permits: Book gorilla and chimpanzee permits in advance (high demand).
Start Your Adventure with Maseke Adventures
At Maseke Adventues, we specialize in custom Uganda and Rwanda safari itineraries, from gorilla trekking tours to luxury game drives. Whether you want a short 3-day safari or a 10-day adventure, we’ll tailor every detail to create your dream experience.
