Where to See Lions in Uganda – Big Five Safaris in Uganda

Uganda, often called the Pearl of Africa, is one of the few places in East Africa where you can see the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino — all within one safari circuit. While Uganda is best known for its gorilla trekking and lush rainforests, it also boasts open savannahs, vast plains, and dramatic landscapes that provide incredible opportunities to encounter Africa’s most iconic predators, especially lions.

Whether you’re looking for the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, the roaring prides of Murchison Falls, or the remote wilderness of Kidepo Valley, Uganda offers unforgettable and varied experiences for Big Five lovers.

Lions in Uganda – Where the Kings of the Savannah Reign

Lions in Uganda are found in several protected areas, primarily in the country’s savannah parks. Uganda’s lion population is healthy and stable, thanks to strong conservation efforts by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and local communities who have embraced wildlife tourism.

Here are the best places to see lions in Uganda, along with what makes each destination unique for Big Five safaris.

1. Queen Elizabeth National Park – Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha

Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in western Uganda, is the country’s most famous destination for lion sightings — particularly the tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha Sector in the park’s south.

These lions have developed a fascinating habit of resting on the branches of giant fig and acacia trees, a behavior rarely seen elsewhere in Africa. Scientists believe they climb trees to escape insects, enjoy the breeze, or gain better vantage points for spotting prey. Whatever the reason, it’s a breathtaking sight — entire prides draped lazily across branches against a backdrop of endless savannah.

In the Kasenyi Plains, located in the park’s north, lions are more traditional hunters, often seen stalking herds of Uganda kob and buffalo. Game drives here are excellent in the early mornings and late afternoons, when lions are most active.

Other wildlife: Leopards, elephants, hippos, buffaloes, and plenty of antelope species.
Big Five status: 4 out of 5 (no rhinos in this park).
Best time to visit: June–October and December–February.
Where to stay: Mweya Safari Lodge, Ishasha Wilderness Camp, Kasenyi Safari Camp.

2. Murchison Falls National Park – Lions by the Nile

Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest protected area, offers some of the best opportunities to see lions on open savannah. The Buligi, Nyamsika, and Delta regions in the park’s northern section are especially rich in wildlife, where lions are frequently seen hunting among large herds of buffaloes, giraffes, and kob.

The landscape here is classic African wilderness — golden grasslands, acacia woodlands, and riverine plains, all bordered by the mighty Victoria Nile. Lions often rest under shade trees during the heat of the day, while early morning and evening drives reveal them in full action.

Other wildlife: Elephants, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles.
Big Five status: 4 out of 5 (rhinos found nearby at Ziwa Sanctuary).
Best time to visit: December–February and June–September.
Where to stay: Paraa Safari Lodge, Pakuba Safari Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge.

3. Kidepo Valley National Park – Remote and Wild Lion Encounters

For travelers seeking solitude and untamed wilderness, Kidepo Valley National Park in northeastern Uganda is the ultimate safari destination. It is home to some of Uganda’s largest and most relaxed lion populations, often seen lounging on rocky outcrops or prowling across the Narus Valley.

Kidepo’s isolation makes every encounter feel raw and personal — no crowds, no noise, just the sound of the wind and the distant roar of lions echoing through the valley. The park’s dramatic landscapes of rugged mountains, wide plains, and dry riverbeds create an authentic African safari atmosphere.

Other wildlife: Cheetahs, leopards, elephants, zebras, buffaloes, and ostriches.
Big Five status: 4 out of 5 (no rhinos).
Best time to visit: September–March and June–October.
Where to stay: Apoka Safari Lodge, Nga’Moru Wilderness Camp, Kidepo Savannah Lodge.

4. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Completing the Big Five

To complete the Big Five safari experience in Uganda, a visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a must. Located between Kampala and Murchison Falls National Park, Ziwa is the only place in Uganda where you can see wild rhinos.

Here, you’ll go on a guided walking safari to track the southern white rhinos — a peaceful and educational experience that supports ongoing reintroduction efforts. Combining Ziwa with Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth gives you a complete Big Five adventure within a single trip.

Other wildlife: Uganda kobs, bushbucks, hippos, and over 300 bird species.
Big Five status: Home of rhinos, completing the full Big Five circuit.
Best time to visit: All year.
Where to stay: Amuka Safari Lodge.

5. Lake Mburo National Park – Small but Scenic

While Lake Mburo National Park doesn’t have lions permanently resident, occasional sightings of roaming males have been reported. The park instead offers a serene safari experience with zebras, elands, impalas, hippos, and birdlife. It’s a great stopover between Kampala and the western parks, providing a tranquil introduction or conclusion to your safari.

Other wildlife: Zebras, giraffes, leopards, and crocodiles.
Big Five status: 2 out of 5 (no lions, rhinos, or elephants).
Best time to visit: June–September and December–February.
Where to stay: Mihingo Lodge, Rwakobo Rock Lodge, Eagles’ Nest.

Big Five Safari Circuit in Uganda

To experience all of the Big Five in Uganda, travelers can follow a scenic circuit that combines multiple parks:

Day 1-2: Start with Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for rhino tracking.
Day 3-5: Continue to Murchison Falls National Park for lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards.
Day 6-8: Head south to Queen Elizabeth National Park for tree-climbing lions and boat safaris.
Day 9-11: Add Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for gorilla trekking (a unique bonus to the Big Five).
Day 12: End your journey at Lake Bunyonyi for relaxation before returning to Entebbe.

This route not only guarantees all Big Five sightings but also offers gorillas and chimpanzees, making Uganda the only country where you can see the Big Seven — the Big Five plus mountain gorillas and chimpanzees.

When to Go for the Best Lion & Big Five Viewing

The dry seasons (June–September and December–February) are the best times for lion and Big Five safaris in Uganda. Vegetation is thinner, animals gather around water sources, and roads are more accessible for game drives. However, Uganda’s parks remain open all year, and even the green season (March–May and October–November) brings lush scenery and fewer crowds.

Why Choose Uganda for Big Five Safaris

Unique Variety: Lions, rhinos, elephants, leopards, and buffaloes — plus gorillas and chimps.
Less Crowded Parks: Peaceful, uncrowded safari experiences.
Affordable Safaris: Lower park fees and permit costs compared to neighboring countries.
Community Conservation: Visiting Uganda directly supports local communities and wildlife protection.
Scenic Diversity: From savannahs and forests to crater lakes and waterfalls.

The Call of the Wild

Seeing lions in Uganda is more than just a safari highlight — it’s a moment of connection with the wild, a glimpse into Africa’s primal beauty. Whether you watch a lion pride resting in the trees of Ishasha, roaring on the plains of Murchison, or basking under Kidepo’s endless skies, Uganda’s Big Five experience captures the heart of every adventurer.