Camping Safaris in Uganda

There’s no better way to experience the wild heart of Africa than by sleeping under a canopy of stars, listening to the distant roars of lions and the calls of nightjars echoing across the savannah. Camping safaris in Uganda bring travelers closer to nature than any lodge can — offering raw adventure, deep connection, and the thrill of waking up surrounded by some of Africa’s most beautiful wilderness.

Uganda’s diverse landscapes — from the savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park to the forested hills of Bwindi and the banks of the River Nile in Murchison Falls — make it an ideal destination for camping safaris. Whether you’re a budget backpacker or a luxury adventurer, camping in Uganda offers something special for every traveler.

Why Choose Camping Safaris in Uganda

Camping in Uganda isn’t just about accommodation — it’s an experience that immerses you completely in the wilderness. Each night brings the sounds, smells, and sensations of Africa alive — the crackle of the campfire, the rustle of the wind through tall grass, and the symphony of nocturnal life that never truly sleeps.

Camping safaris also allow greater flexibility and freedom. You can travel between national parks, set up camp in stunning locations, and enjoy Uganda’s breathtaking beauty without the crowds. For those seeking intimacy with nature and an authentic safari experience, there’s truly nothing like it.

Popular Destinations for Camping Safaris in Uganda

Murchison Falls National Park

The largest and one of the most famous parks in Uganda, Murchison Falls is where the mighty River Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge before plunging 45 meters into a thunderous waterfall. Around it lies a landscape teeming with wildlife — elephants, lions, hippos, giraffes, and leopards.

Camping Experience: Camp along the Nile at places like Red Chilli Rest Camp or Shoebill Campsite, where hippos graze nearby and sunsets paint the river gold. The park also offers public UWA-managed sites for self-camping.

Activities: Game drives, boat safaris to the bottom of the falls, nature walks, and hikes to the top of the falls.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Famous for its tree-climbing lions and the scenic Kazinga Channel, Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most diverse ecosystems. It’s also an excellent place for camping in the wild.

Camping Experience: Set up camp at Ishasha Sector Campsite, Mweya Campsite, or Simba Safari Camp, where you’ll fall asleep to the distant grunts of hippos and the calls of owls.

Activities: Game drives, boat safaris, lion tracking, birdwatching, and chimp trekking in Kyambura Gorge.

Lake Mburo National Park

One of the smaller but most accessible parks, Lake Mburo is only a few hours from Kampala. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience a classic Ugandan safari without long drives.

Camping Experience: The park offers several campsites inside the park, including Rwonyo Rest Camp and Eagle’s Nest, perched on hillsides with panoramic views of the savannah and lake.

Activities: Walking safaris, cycling, horse riding, and boat trips.

Kidepo Valley National Park

For travelers seeking a remote, untouched wilderness, Kidepo is Uganda’s crown jewel. Set in the rugged northeast near the borders with Kenya and South Sudan, Kidepo is home to lions, cheetahs, ostriches, and large herds of buffalo.

Camping Experience: Camp at Apoka Campsite or one of the UWA-managed grounds surrounded by endless plains and dramatic mountains. The isolation and beauty here create an unforgettable sense of peace.

Activities: Game drives, cultural visits to the Karamojong villages, and guided nature walks.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

While Bwindi is better known for gorilla trekking, it also offers serene camping options near the forest’s edge. The cool, misty atmosphere and distant sounds of forest birds make camping here a magical experience.

Camping Experience: Stay at Bwindi Backpackers Lodge or Rushaga Gorilla Camp, where you can pitch your tent overlooking the lush valleys and feel the heartbeat of the jungle.

Activities: Gorilla trekking, forest walks, birdwatching, and community visits.

Lake Bunyonyi

With its 29 islands and stunning terraced hills, Lake Bunyonyi is one of the most beautiful camping destinations in Uganda. The lake is safe for swimming and perfect for relaxation after a gorilla trek.

Camping Experience: Camp on one of the islands like Byoona Amagara, Itambira Island, or Bushara Island Camp, all of which offer lakeside campsites surrounded by tranquility.

Activities: Canoeing, swimming, zip-lining, hiking, and birding.

Types of Camping Safaris in Uganda

Budget Camping

Perfect for adventurous travelers, budget camping involves pitching simple tents, often in UWA-managed sites. Facilities are basic, with shared bathrooms and campfires for cooking.

Mid-range Camping

This includes semi-permanent tented camps and lodges that offer more comfort, with proper beds, en-suite bathrooms, and dining areas. Examples include Eagle’s Nest (Lake Mburo) and Twiga Safari Lodge (Murchison Falls).

Luxury Camping (Glamping)

For those who want the wilderness without sacrificing comfort, Uganda has luxurious tented camps like Nile Safari Lodge, Ishasha Wilderness Camp, and Apoka Safari Lodge. These offer full-service hospitality, private decks, gourmet meals, and stunning views.

Best Time for Camping Safaris in Uganda

Camping safaris are possible all year, but the best time to go is during the dry seasons, when roads are passable, and wildlife viewing is excellent.

• June to September

• December to February

During these months, the skies are clear, the nights cool, and the landscapes golden. The rainy seasons (March–May and October–November) make for lush scenery and fewer tourists but can bring muddy trails.

What to Pack

• A sturdy tent and sleeping bag (if self-camping)

• Hiking boots or strong walking shoes

• Warm layers for cool nights

• Insect repellent and sunscreen

• Flashlight or headlamp

• Binoculars and camera

• Reusable water bottle

• Lightweight rain jacket

• Personal first aid kit

Safety and Conservation

All camps within Uganda’s national parks are managed or regulated by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), ensuring safety and sustainability. Rangers often patrol campsites, and most camps are fenced or elevated to minimize encounters with wildlife.

Camping also supports conservation and local communities — especially when you choose eco-lodges and community-run camps that reinvest tourism revenue into protecting Uganda’s wildlife and forests.

Camping safaris in Uganda are for those who want to feel the pulse of Africa — raw, real, and close. It’s about sharing stories by a campfire, listening to lions in the distance, and waking up to a pink dawn over the savannah. Whether you’re camping by the Nile in Murchison, under acacia trees in Queen Elizabeth, or beside the tranquil waters of Lake Bunyonyi, every moment brings you closer to the wild heart of Uganda.

In a world that often feels rushed, camping in Uganda reminds you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature in its purest form.