Uganda, a country nicknamed “The Pearl of Africa” for its natural beauty, is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. With a government and local communities committed to conservation, Uganda’s diverse wildlife populations thrive in various game reserves. These reserves offer stunning scenery with rolling hills, varied vegetation, and unforgettable experiences for visitors on safari. From majestic African elephants and primates to smaller mammals, each reserve boasts a unique range of wildlife.

Here are some of the game reserves you can explore on a Ugandan safari.

1. Bugungu Wildlife Reserve

Tucked between Bulisa and Masindi districts, Bugungu Wildlife Reserve sits at the foot of the Rift Valley escarpment, bordering Murchison Falls National Park to the east. This 473-square-kilometer reserve shelters a diverse range of wildlife, including over 600 Ugandan kobs, 1,200 oribis, and a staggering 240 bird species.

Bugungu offers more than just wildlife viewing. Well-maintained trails allow visitors to explore the reserve on game drives, nature walks, or even community visits. Immerse yourself in the local culture, spend a night under the stars at a campsite, enjoy a scenic picnic, or lose yourself in the symphony of bird calls. Whether you choose Bugungu as an extension of your Murchison Falls adventure or a standalone safari experience, this hidden gem promises unforgettable encounters with wildlife and the local community.

2. Ajai Wildlife Reserve

Ajai Wildlife Reserve is found in northwestern Uganda, nestled on the west bank of the mighty Albert Nile. Spanning 166 square kilometers in Arua District, Ajai’s diverse landscape offers a mix of grassy plains, sparse savanna woodlands, and seasonal swamps.

This haven for birdwatchers boasts a colorful cast of avian residents, including the majestic African fish eagle, the soaring grey-crowned crane, and the comical marabou stork. But birding is just the beginning. Embark on a game drive or nature walk and keep your eyes peeled for an abundance of wildlife. Spot graceful Uganda kobs grazing alongside lumbering hartebeests, or watch warthogs snuffle in the dirt. The mighty Nile hippopotamus basks in the shallows, while leopards and crocodiles lurk in the shadows.

Ajai was once home to a thriving population of white rhinos, and exciting plans are underway for their reintroduction, alongside the Nile buffalo. With its rich biodiversity and ongoing conservation efforts, Ajai Wildlife Reserve is a place where the magic of Africa comes alive.

3. Karuma wildlife reserve

Named after the awe-inspiring Karuma Falls cascading down the Victoria Nile, Karuma Wildlife Reserve offers a dramatic backdrop for an unforgettable safari. Bordering Murchison Falls National Park, Karuma seamlessly integrates into a multi-park adventure.

While the thundering falls may not be ideal for white-water rafting, Karuma’s true treasures lie in its diverse wildlife. Watch playful olive baboons swing through the trees, or spot the distinctive black and white markings of colobus monkeys. Vervet monkeys and the acrobatic L’Hoest’s monkeys add to the primate parade.

Beyond the primates, Karuma boasts an impressive array of animals. Buffalo and elusive leopards roam the grasslands, while giraffes, elephants, and a variety of antelopes, including Uganda kobs, oribis, and topis, graze peacefully.

Birdwatchers will find themselves in paradise with a vibrant collection of feathered friends. From the flash of a pied kingfisher to the graceful grey-crowned crane, the skies come alive with color. Listen for the calls of the swamp flycatcher, yellow-throated leaf, giant heron, and many more as you explore this remarkable wildlife haven.

4. Bokora Corridor Wildlife Reserve

In the heart of northeastern Uganda’s Karamoja region lies Bokora Corridor Wildlife Reserve, named after the indigenous Bokora people. Spanning a vast 2,056 square kilometers, Bokora’s landscape is a captivating tapestry.

Birders flock to the reserve for a chance to spot unique species native to the region. The Loporokocho swamp teems with avian life, while hikes to the majestic Mount Kadam offer breathtaking vistas. Nature walks and visits to the Bokora people’s cattle kraals provide a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be enthralled by the reserve’s diverse inhabitants. Spot the graceful Rothschild’s giraffe stretching for acacia leaves, or witness the stealthy hunt of a leopard. The grasslands teem with cheetahs, oryx, topis, and a variety of antelopes, including Uganda kobs, lesser kudus, roan antelopes, and elands. Keep your eyes peeled for spotted hyenas and striped hyenas scavenging the plains, while the calls of the elusive reedbuck might pique your curiosity.

Bokora’s skies are no less alive with wonder. Soar alongside majestic ostriches or listen for the gentle coo of the lemon dove. The distinctive calls of the dusky turtle dove, eastern bronze-napped pigeon, and grey cuckoo-shrike fill the air. Be sure to look out for the vibrant Hartlaub’s turaco, the melodic African hill babbler, and the striking Jackson’s hornbill. The mountain yellow-warbler, black-throated wattle-eye, white-headed buffalo-weaver, and thick-billed honey guide round out this extraordinary birding paradise.

5. Katonga wildlife reserve

Nestled along the banks of the Katonga River, Katonga Wildlife Reserve offers a unique off-the-beaten-path safari experience. This hidden gem is a haven for wildlife, with over 40 mammal species calling it home.

Keep your eyes peeled for the shy sitatunga antelope, a master of camouflage in the wetland vegetation. Spot the iconic African elephant, or watch herds of Uganda kobs and waterbucks graze in the grasslands. Don’t forget to look for the playful river otters frolicking in the water, or the graceful reedbuck traversing the plains.

Unlike many reserves, Katonga’s lack of extensive road networks makes it a paradise for those seeking a more immersive adventure. Explore the reserve on guided nature walks, following hidden trails and discovering the secrets of the wilderness. Hike through diverse habitats and soak in the untouched beauty of Katonga.

For a truly unforgettable experience, embark on a canoe safari. Glide silently along the waterways, observing wildlife from a unique perspective. Listen to the symphony of birdsong as you navigate the papyrus swamps and discover the hidden wonders of Katonga.

With its focus on foot and canoe exploration, Katonga Wildlife Reserve is ideal for those seeking an authentic safari adventure away from the crowds.

6. Kabwoya wildlife reserve

Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve is nestled between Murchison Falls National Park and Kibale National Park and offers a unique safari experience along the western Rift Valley escarpment. Spanning 87 square miles, this reserve boasts stunning scenery and a surprising array of activities.

Anglers flock to Kabwoya for the chance to reel in a mighty Nile perch, but the rich waters harbor a variety of fish species waiting to be discovered. Unlike some reserves, Kabwoya’s tranquility makes it a haven for guided hikes and nature walks. Stroll along safe trails under the watchful eye of your guide, immersing yourself in the reserve’s beauty.

For the adventurous soul, Kabwoya offers exciting off-road options. Embark on a thrilling mountain bike safari, navigating scenic trails and experiencing the reserve from a different perspective. Alternatively, explore the landscape on an exhilarating ATV quad bike ride.

Birdwatchers will find Kabwoya a paradise, with over 460 avian residents to spot. Listen for the calls of the western nicator or watch the flash of a yellow-billed oxpecker flitting through the trees. Keep an eye out for the black-headed weaver, the charismatic grey parrot, and the colorful northern carmine bee-eater. Keen observers might glimpse the elusive stripe-breasted tit, the dwarf honey guide, or even the bizarre bare-faced go-away bird.

7. Kyambura wildlife reserve

Kyambura Wildlife Reserve is a chimpanzee haven within Queen Elizabeth National Park. This emerald gem is renowned for its habituated chimpanzee population, offering unforgettable chimp trekking adventures with experienced guides.

But Kyambura’s magic extends far beyond primates. The reserve serves as a vital water source for wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park, attracting a diverse array of animals. Keep your eyes peeled for herds of thirsty elephants and buffaloes congregating around the waterholes.

Birders won’t be disappointed either. Kyambura boasts a rich tapestry of avian life, with soaring falcons, the unique African skimmer, and the vibrant African broadbill gracing the skies. Look out for the elegant pink-backed pelican and the charming white-tailed lark flitting among the trees.

Complement your chimp trek with a guided nature walk or forest walk. Explore the lush landscapes bordering the northeastern corner of Queen Elizabeth National Park, and discover the hidden wonders nestled close to the Kazinga Channel. A walk through Kyambura promises encounters with not only captivating wildlife but also breathtaking scenery.

8. Pian Upe wildlife reserve

Uganda’s untamed beauty unfolds in Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, the nation’s second-largest conservation area after Murchison Falls National Park. Nestled in the Nakapiripirit District of northeastern Uganda, Pian Upe offers a quintessential safari experience, accessible by road from Kampala via Mbale.

This vast reserve shelters a diverse array of mammals. Spot graceful roan antelopes grazing alongside elusive cheetahs. Keep your eyes peeled for agile serval cats, the majestic eland, and dazzle stripes of zebras. Rock hyraxes, nimble waterbucks, and common duikers add to the rich tapestry of wildlife. Look up to see playful troops of vervet monkeys and patas monkeys swinging through the trees or witness the social olive baboons interacting on the ground.

Birdwatchers will be enthralled by Pian Upe’s avian residents. Listen for the calls of the distinctive fox’s weaver, or marvel at the impressive Abyssinian ground hornbill. Superb starlings bring bursts of color to the landscape, while ostriches, the world’s largest bird, roam the plains. Look out for the Karamoja apalis, a bird endemic to the region, or search for the Great Hartlaub’s bustard, an enormous terrestrial bird. The impressive Jackson’s hornbill, with its casque resembling a helmet, is another exciting addition to your birdwatching list.

Beyond wildlife viewing, Pian Upe offers a range of activities. Challenge yourself with a mountain climb on the slopes of Mount Kadam, the reserve’s highest point. Embark on a guided nature walk, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the wilderness. Join a thrilling wildlife safari and witness nature unfold before your eyes. For a deeper cultural experience, visit neighboring communities and learn about their traditions.

9. East Madi wildlife reserve

East Madi Wildlife Reserve is located north of Murchison Falls National Park in northwestern Uganda. This hidden gem sprawls across 831 square kilometers, offering a haven for nature lovers.
It boasts a remarkable diversity of life. Over 50 mammal species roam the reserve, including elusive lions and leopards. Keep your eyes peeled for graceful giraffes and powerful buffaloes. The treetops come alive with the antics of primates like playful blue monkeys, acrobatic colobus monkeys, and energetic vervet monkeys. Look out for the flash of red-tailed monkeys swinging through the branches.

But East Madi’s magic extends beyond mammals. With over 181 bird species calling the reserve home, birdwatching enthusiasts are in for a treat. Listen for the melodious calls echoing through the trees, or spot vibrant birds flitting through the foliage.

The diverse landscape also offers a variety of activities. Explore the reserve on a nature walk, soaking in the beauty of the surroundings. Embark on a thrilling wildlife viewing adventure, searching for the park’s hidden treasures.

10. Toro-Semiliki wildlife reserve

Stepping back in time to 1926, Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve emerged as one of Uganda’s most treasured wildlife havens. Nestled between Kabarole and Ntoroko Districts in western Uganda, it neighbors Semliki National Park, creating a vast wilderness corridor.

A safari in Toro-Semliki offers a unique blend of experiences. Take a boat trip on Lake Albert, where the elusive shoebill might grace you with its presence. Keep your eyes peeled for a variety of water birds, including the African openbill, the majestic great white pelican, and the vibrant pied kingfisher. In fact, over 400 bird species call Toro-Semliki home.

Listen for the booming call of the Abyssinian ground hornbill, or marvel at the iridescent feathers of the malachite kingfisher. The African openbill, the skulking Luhder’s bushrike, and the melodic tropical boubou are just a few more avian treasures to seek. Look out for the black-billed barbet, the Arrow Mark Babbler, and the impressive, red-necked falcon soaring through the skies.

Beyond the birds, Toro-Semliki boasts a wealth of mammals. Spot mighty buffaloes and graceful Uganda kobs grazing in the plains. Keep your ears tuned for the cackle of hyenas and watch for the lumbering gait of elephants.

Venture along forested trails and encounter a symphony of primates. Look up to see De Brazza’s monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys swinging through the trees. Vervet monkeys and central African red colobus monkeys add to the primate parade, while baboons, blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and Dent’s mona monkeys complete the vibrant picture.

For a deeper cultural immersion, visit neighboring communities and experience their traditions firsthand. Witness the energy of a traditional dance or marvel at the intricate craftsmanship of local handicrafts.

11. Kigezi wildlife reserve

Kigezi Wildlife Reserve in Rukungiri District in western Uganda offers a hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts. Spanning 265 square kilometers, this reserve is a haven for the iconic African elephant. If you dream of spotting these gentle giants, Kigezi is the place to be, as it serves as a sanctuary for elephants migrating from the Democratic Republic of Congo towards Queen Elizabeth National Park.

But Kigezi’s magic extends beyond elephants. The reserve teems with diverse wildlife. Watch herds of Uganda Kobs graze peacefully alongside powerful buffaloes. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive giant forest hog, a creature of the dense undergrowth. The graceful bushbuck and the majestic topi add to the rich tapestry of mammals.

Birdwatchers will also find themselves in paradise. Listen for the rhythmic tapping of the hamerkop, or marvel at the elegance of the grey-crowned crane soaring overhead. Look out for the powerful Ver Reaux’s eagle with its piercing gaze, or the distinctive silhouette of the saddle-billed stork. The vibrant red-faced barbet and the awe-inspiring peregrine falcon are just a few more feathered friends waiting to be discovered.

12. Matheniko wildlife reserve

In the rugged wilderness of northeastern Uganda’s Karamoja sub-region lies Matheniko Wildlife Reserve. This hidden gem promises encounters with wildlife you won’t find everywhere in Uganda. Spot the graceful lesser kudu, the majestic roan antelope, and the elusive Bright’s gazelle. Keep your eyes peeled for the world’s largest bird, the ostrich, occasionally gracing the plains (though more commonly seen in Pian Upe and Kidepo Valley National Park).

But Matheniko’s wonders extend beyond its fauna. Birding enthusiasts will delight in spotting a variety of avian residents, including the melodic alpine chat, the grey cuckoo-shrike with its distinctive call, and the fascinating thick-billed honey guide.

Delve deeper into the reserve’s history and embark on a guided tour to ancient rock paintings, believed to be over 3,000 years old. Imagine the stories these paintings whisper from the past.
Matheniko offers more than just wildlife viewing. Lace up your boots and explore the reserve on a nature walk, immersing yourself in the beauty of the landscape. Connect with the local community through cultural visits, gaining a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich traditions.

Matheniko Wildlife Reserve is a place where wildlife encounters, historical exploration, and cultural immersion combine to create an unforgettable Ugandan adventure.