Best destinations for family tours in Uganda- Uganda safaris

1. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a top choice for family Uganda safaris due to its rich biodiversity and activities for all ages. Families can enjoy a two-hour boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel to safely observe hippos, crocodiles, and elephants by the riverbanks. Game drives in the Kasenyi Plains offer chances to spot lions, buffalo, and antelopes, while the Ishasha sector is famous for its tree-climbing lions. Kids can join educational ranger-led walks or participate in the Junior Ranger Program to learn about conservation. With family-friendly accommodations, complete with suites and pools, the park ensures a comfortable stay.

2. Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and one of its oldest parks, making it ideal for family adventure safaris. The main highlight is the powerful Murchison Falls, where the Nile River squeezes through a gorge and plunges down. A boat trip to the base of the falls is thrilling for the entire family, providing close views of hippos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species along the banks. Guided game drives can lead to sightings of giraffes, elephants, and lions. Many family-friendly lodges, like Paraa Safari Lodge, offer pools and spacious rooms for a relaxing stay after a day of exploration.

3. Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is an easily accessible option, perfect for families with younger children or as a restful stop on a Uganda safari. Its compact size means less time in vehicles and more time exploring. Families can enjoy guided walking safaris, horseback riding, or cycling among zebras, impalas, and giraffes. Boat rides on the lake provide opportunities to see an array of birds and aquatic life. Lodges like Mihingo Lodge offer family cottages and activities that help kids connect with nature, making it a fantastic destination for family Uganda adventure safaris.

4. Entebbe & the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC)

Entebbe is an excellent starting or ending point for family Uganda safaris, featuring several child-friendly attractions around Lake Victoria. The Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), often called the Entebbe Zoo, lets children see rescued animals like lions, giraffes, and chimpanzees while participating in interactive educational experiences. Families can also take a scenic boat trip to Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary to observe chimps in a semi-natural setting. With nearby botanical gardens and safe lake beaches, Entebbe offers a fun introduction to Uganda’s wildlife and culture.

5. Jinja & the Source of the Nile

Jinja, known as the “Adventure Capital of East Africa,” is perfect for active family Uganda safaris. Located at the source of the Nile, it offers a range of activities for all ages. Older children can try mild white-water rafting or kayaking, while the whole family can enjoy a gentler boat cruise to the Nile’s source. Other activities include quad biking, bungee jumping (for teens/adults), and zip-lining in Mabira Forest. The vibrant town also has cultural experiences in local markets and colonial streets, providing a well-rounded adventure for families.

6. Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest National Park is known as the “Primate Capital of the World” and is essential for a family Uganda safari focused on primates. The main activity is chimpanzee tracking, which is exciting for older children (12 years and up). They can observe these fascinating creatures in the wild and learn about their social behaviors. For younger kids, guided nature walks in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary offer opportunities to see various monkey species, birds, and colorful butterflies. Family-friendly lodges in the area ensure a cozy stay in the heart of the jungle.

7. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

A family Uganda safari to Bwindi is a must for many, as it’s home to a large population of mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking is physically challenging and has a minimum age of 15 years. For families with younger children, the park offers guided nature walks to waterfalls, birdwatching, and visits to local Batwa pygmy communities to learn about their traditional lifestyle. These cultural experiences provide insights into conservation efforts and local life, making it a well-rounded destination for Uganda adventure safaris.

8. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the only place in Uganda where families can see white rhinos in the wild, making it a unique addition to any Uganda safari. Located on the way to Murchison Falls National Park, it’s a convenient stop. Children aged six and older can take guided rhino tracking walks, offering safe and close encounters with these endangered animals. The sanctuary is also home to various bird species and small wildlife, making it perfect for educational nature walks. This hands-on conservation experience is memorable for family itineraries.

9. Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Africa,” is a beautiful destination for relaxation during a family Uganda safari. This bilharzia-free lake is safe for swimming, making it ideal for families. Gentle activities like canoeing to explore the lake’s 29 islands, birdwatching, and visiting local communities provide cultural immersion. The calm environment and scenic views offer a peaceful escape after adventurous activities in other parks, making it a lovely addition to your Uganda wildlife safaris.

10. Kidepo Valley National Park

For families seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Kidepo Valley in the northeast offers a wild experience during their Uganda safari. Known for its vast savannas and mountain views, the park is home to unique wildlife, including ostriches and buffalo herds. Game drives here can lead to sightings of lions and elephants. Engaging with the indigenous Karamojong people gives families a fascinating look into different cultures, enriching their understanding of Uganda’s diverse heritage during their adventure.

11. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga provides a quieter alternative to Bwindi for gorilla trekking (age 15+), set against the stunning Virunga Volcanoes. This park also offers the “Batwa Trail,” where local Batwa pygmies share their traditional forest lifestyle in a captivating way for all ages. The opportunity for golden monkey tracking is another exciting primate experience available here, complementing gorilla encounters. Mgahinga gives families a diverse setting for memorable Uganda safaris with fewer crowds.

12. Sipi Falls

Located in Eastern Uganda, Sipi Falls offers beautiful waterfalls and hiking opportunities, making it a refreshing change for active families on a Uganda safari. Guided hikes to the waterfalls are available and suitable for different fitness levels, providing stunning views along the way. The surrounding community also offers educational tours about coffee farming and processing, giving kids an interactive experience. This blend of adventure and culture makes Sipi Falls a great family-friendly destination.