The thrill of the hunt. Witness the power and majesty of lions in Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park. Spot them stalking their prey on the golden savannas or lounging in the shade, keeping an eye on their cubs frolicking nearby. In Rwanda, you can also find lions in Akagera National Park. Remember, lion sightings are less frequent in other Ugandan parks like Lake Mburo.
Elusive hunters of the night, leopards can be spotted by keen observers in national parks across Uganda and Rwanda. In Uganda, look for them in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, and Lake Mburo National Park, where they often camouflage among the vegetation. In Rwanda, they can be seen in Akagera National Park. These solitary predators are known for their stealth and hunting prowess, making sightings less common but highly rewarding.
Cunning scavengers and opportunistic hunters, spotted hyenas can be encountered in several national parks in Uganda and Rwanda. Often seen in large packs, they are prominent in Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park. In Rwanda, they roam Akagera National Park. Despite their reputation as scavengers, hyenas are skilled hunters, capable of taking down prey on their own.
Silent sentinels of the water. Keep an eye out for crocodiles lurking on the shores of lakes and rivers throughout Uganda and Rwanda. These prehistoric reptiles are apex predators in their aquatic domain, preying on fish, reptiles, and even mammals.
Herds of strength and resilience. Encounter large herds of African buffaloes, recognizable by their massive horns, grazing on the savannas of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda. These social animals play an important role in the ecosystem.
Magnificent giants, herds of majestic elephants, the largest land mammals on Earth, can be seen trumpeting across the golden plains of Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks in Uganda. In Rwanda, they roam the savannas of Akagera National Park. Witness these awe-inspiring creatures grazing on grasses and leaves, using their trunks for various tasks, making for an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Striped marvels of the savanna, zebras can be spotted grazing alongside other herbivores in several national parks in Uganda and Rwanda. In Uganda, look for them in Lake Mburo National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park. In Rwanda, they are found in Akagera National Park. These social animals play a crucial role in maintaining the health and balance of the grasslands ecosystem.
The iconic symbol of African waterways, the African fish eagle, can be seen soaring above the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park and the Nile River in Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda. In Rwanda, they are frequently spotted in Akagera National Park. Listen for their melodic call as they glide gracefully above the water, diving skillfully for fish below, showcasing their hunting prowess.
A prehistoric-looking marvel, the elusive shoebill stork, can be spotted with its massive beak in the papyrus swamps of Uganda’s Mabamba Swamp, Lake Mburo National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and along the shores of Lake Albert and the Nile Delta. In Rwanda, they are occasionally seen in the wetlands of Akagera National Park. These fascinating wading birds feed on fish and other aquatic creatures, making them a unique sight for bird enthusiasts.
A nocturnal wonder, the rare Ruwenzori nightjar can be a thrilling sight for avid birdwatchers. In Uganda, you can spot this elusive bird in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, and Rwenzori Mountains National Park. In Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest National Park offers a prime opportunity to hear its otherworldly call resonating through the forest at night. This nocturnal bird adds a magical element to the night-time forest experience.
A master of the skies, the African Goshawk can be seen in various national parks across Uganda and Rwanda. In Uganda, this raptor, with its stunning barred wings, can be spotted in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. In Rwanda, it soars above the landscapes of Nyungwe Forest National Park and Akagera National Park. As a skilled hunter, the African Goshawk preys on small mammals, birds, and reptiles, showcasing its remarkable hunting prowess and agility.
A vibrant spectacle of the treetops, the Great Blue Turaco can be found in the lush forests of Uganda and Rwanda. In Uganda, spot this striking bird with its vivid plumage in Kibale Forest National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Mabira Forest. In Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to these beautiful birds. Known for their bright colors and distinctive calls, turacos are a delight for birdwatchers, adding a splash of color to the verdant landscapes.