Uganda Safaris

When most travelers dream of an African safari, names like Kenya’s Masai Mara or Tanzania’s Serengeti usually come to mind. But if you’re looking for something truly off the beaten path, filled with rare wildlife encounters and jaw-dropping landscapes, Uganda delivers like no other. Known as the Pearl of Africa, Uganda is a treasure trove of adventure, gorilla trekking in misty mountains, boat safaris on the Nile, tree-climbing lions, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

This guide will take you deep into Uganda’s safari experience from the world-famous Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to the sprawling savannahs of Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and the remote wildlands of Kidepo Valley. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, Uganda has a safari for you.

Why Choose a Uganda Safari?

Here’s why Uganda should be on your safari shortlist:

🦍 Home to over half of the world’s mountain gorillas
🐘 Big Five game viewing without the tourist crowds
🌍 Incredible biodiversity from dense rainforest to open plains
🚤 Boat safaris are unlike anything else in East Africa
💚 Eco-conscious lodges and responsible tourism practices
🌄 Adventure and authenticity in every direction

Plus, Uganda combines wildlife with culture, making it one of the most holistic safari destinations in Africa.

Top Safari Destinations in Uganda

Let’s dive into the parks and reserves that make Uganda one of Africa’s best-kept secrets.

1. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

If there’s one reason people fly across the world to Uganda, it’s gorilla trekking in Bwindi. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. You’ll hike through dense, misty forest with a professional guide and tracker team until boom, there they are. A silverback leading his troop, just feet away.

What to Know:

You need a gorilla permit: USD 700 per person (subject to change)
Trekking can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours
Only 8 visitors per group, per gorilla family
Best time to go: June, September, and December–February

Luxury Lodges:

Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp
Buhoma Lodge
Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

2. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Located between the Rwenzori Mountains and Lake Edward, this park offers diverse habitats, grassland, forest, and wetlands, all packed with animals. It’s home to over 95 mammal species and 600+ bird species!

Highlights:

Tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha Sector
Boat safari along the Kazinga Channel spot hippos, elephants, crocs
Classic game drives in Kasenyi Plains
Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge

Lodge Recommendations:

Mweya Safari Lodge
Katara Lodge
Kyambura Gorge Lodge

3. Murchison Falls National Park

Where the Nile River explodes through a narrow gorge and plunges 43 meters, you’ll find Uganda’s largest park. Murchison Falls is ideal for those looking to combine big game drives with dramatic scenery.

Wildlife Viewing:

Lions, elephants, leopards, giraffes, and buffalo (Big Five minus rhino)
Crocodiles and hippos along the river
Boat trips to the base of the falls or down to the Nile Delta
Optional chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest nearby

Top Stays:

Nile Safari Lodge
Baker’s Lodge
Paraa Safari Lodge

4. Kidepo Valley National Park

Tucked away in Uganda’s remote northeast, Kidepo is often called Africa’s last true wilderness. Fewer tourists venture here, but those who do are rewarded with uninterrupted wildlife viewing and sweeping savannah vistas.

Why Visit:

Excellent lion, cheetah, and elephant sightings
Authentic cultural experiences with the Karamojong tribes
Vast open landscapes reminiscent of the Serengeti

Where to Stay:

Apoka Safari Lodge (luxury in the wild)
Kidepo Savannah Lodge

5. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Smaller than Bwindi but equally enchanting, Mgahinga is Uganda’s other gorilla park. It’s also the only place in Uganda where you can see golden monkeys and trek through extinct volcanoes.

Perfect for those wanting a less crowded gorilla trekking experience.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Customise one of our recommended trips or design your own from scratch

Chat to an expert

Get advice and suggestions to make your perfect trip.

or call us on: +255754982525

Best Time to Visit Uganda

Season	What to Expect
June – Sept	Dry season, great for gorilla trekking & game viewing
Dec – Feb	Another dry window, excellent conditions
March – May	Rainy season, fewer tourists, lush scenery
Oct – Nov	Short rains but still accessible

Top Uganda trip ideas

Every Uganda safari we offer is crafted from scratch, fully customized to match your preferences, travel style, and budget. The sample itineraries below are simply starting points, designed to spark ideas and showcase the incredible possibilities for your personalized safari adventure.

Certified Excellence: Hear From Our Guests

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 189 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Danitza HR 
 
 
 
 Verified Grandiosos Safaris y se encargaron de todos los detalles de la mejor manera Fue una gran experiencia que nos permitió disfrutar de safaris increíbles disfrutando la vida salvaje. Siempre con guías amables y pacientes con la experiencia requerida para explorar y poder ver todos los Animales, viajamos con nuestro hijo de seis años, y siempre una excelente disposición y paciencia para que el viaje también fuera cómodo y emocionante para él. Todo fue acorde con lo planeado y se encargaron de todos los detalles
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Roxani A 
 
 
 
 Verified Love, Adventure and Luxury in East Africa We booked the 15 Days Luxury Honeymoon Safari & Zanzibar Escape package of Northern Masailand Safaris for our honeymoon and it turned out to be a truly unforgettable experience. From the beginning, we were warmly welcomed at Kilimanjaro International Airport. The private guide took us to the Rivertrees Country Inn, where our trip began with a romantic dinner and couples spa session in the wonderful setting between Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro. Ngorongoro Crater's full-day game drive was the highlight. In addition to seeing the Big Five, the cultural encounter with the Hadzabe tribe in Lake Eyasi was very interesting. Luxurious accommodation such as Gibb's Farm, farm-to-table meals and romantic forest walks were perfect for us. The sight of the cheetahs and the lantern-lit bush dinner at the Namiri Plains Camp in the eastern Serengeti was magical. I got a chance to see the Great Wildebeest Migration near the Mara River at Sayari Camp in Northern Serengeti (although according to our timing). Taking a hot-air balloon safari (optional) was the most memorable moment - along with a champagne breakfast. Finally, a 4-day all-inclusive stay at Zuri Zanzibar's beachfront villa in Zanzibar was the perfect ending. Our honeymoon was thoroughly romanticized with a private sunset dhow cruise, snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll, Stone Town visits, and spa treatments. Private 4x4 vehicles, professional guides, full-board mills, and honeymoon special arrangements were all great. The price seems a little high, but I got the full value for money. I highly recommend this package for those who want a luxury honeymoon. Thank you so much to Northern Masailand Safaris for such a dream trip.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Ryan Miller 
 
 
 
 Verified Fantastic Safari with Breathtaking Scenery Safaris was amazing! As soon as we entered the Tarangire National Park, we were fascinated to see the huge elephant herd and the ancient baobab trees. Our guide Joseph was great - very knowledgeable, patient and always looking for the best views. Ngorongoro Crater was the most memorable part. Seeing thousands of flamingos and amazing views from the top of the crater, I felt like I was in a dream. It is also unforgettable to see the vast fields and animals of Serengeti. The accommodation was comfortable, the food was delicious and the whole team kept us very safe and cared for. If you want to do a good quality safari avoiding the crowd, then this is the best. It's highly recommended!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Abraham D 
 
 
 
 Verified Four Days Filled with Wildlife and Great Memories I had a wonderful experience with this 4 Days Lodging Safari (Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro). This package of Northern Masailand Safaris was really exciting and well organized.. From the very first day in Tarangire NP,, we saw huge herds of elephants - so close that it felt like entering their world. In the endless plains of the Serengeti,, it was a privilege to see all of the Big Five, especially the proud movements of the lions and the shadowy presence of the leopards. And Ngorongoro Crater is truly the "Garden of Animals" - the possibility of seeing the Big Five in one day is amazing! The lodgings were comfortable, the food was delicious, and the guides were very knowledgeable and helpful. Teaming up on a group safari with people from different parts of the world has made the experience even richer. If you want to enjoy the best natural beauty of Tanzania, then do not miss this safari.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Kay M 
 
 
 
 Verified Comfortable Stay & Incredible Wildlife We had a great experience with Northern Masailand Safaris on a 3D Lodging Safari (Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara). It was especially unforgettable to see different wildlife together in the vast open space inside the Ngorongoro Crater. The guide was very friendly and knowledgeable, explained everything very well. It was a great evening game drive with the monkeys on the trees of Lake Manyara and under the giant baobab trees of Tarangire. Accommodation was very comfortable and the food was excellent. This 3 day package was perfect as we had little time. I would definitely recommend NORTHERN≈MASAILAND≈SAFARIS.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Sebastian Johan... S 
 
 
 
 Verified Nature, Culture and Comfort in One Amazing Trip Northern Masailand Safaris offers an excellent mix of wildlife sightings and cultural experiences in their 3-day itinerary. From Arusha to Lake Manyara, then to Ngorongoro Crater where it seems that this is the garden of paradise - rhinoceros, lion and thousands of animals. And the end of the whole trip with Tarangire's iconic baobab tree was amazing. The owner of the company, a real Maasai Warrior, with his personal story and extraordinary tracking skills showed us all the animals that others used to miss. His team was very warm, knowledgeable and treated us like family. The logistics were perfect, the car was comfortable and the view of the sunset at the High View Hotel was unforgettable. I was very impressed by their mission to help Maasai orphaned girls and preserve East African heritage. It added depth and purpose to the trip. If you want a connected, glamorous but real safari with nature and people, book with N.M.S.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Spencer S 
 
 
 
 Verified An unforgettable authentic Maasai adventure! I had a wonderful 3 day safari experience with Northern Masaland Safaris in Arusha. The owner's knowledge and passion for his heritage is truly inspiring.... He took us to a hidden place away from the crowd, where we saw traditional Maasai medical practices, local bombs (villages), and tasted real food. The off-road adventure through the extraordinary wild nature of Northern Tanzania was thrilling. We have also seen rare rhinos. The team was very professional, punctual and kept us completely safe and cared for. It wasn't just a safari - it was a meaningful cultural experience. We have come back to understand and love Tanzania very deeply. Thank you so much to the whole team - we will definitely be back!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Xavier R 
 
 
 
 Verified Wonderful Wildlife Encounters in Tanzania The 5 day trip was great. I've been to Lake Manyara, Serengeti and Ngorongoro. I have seen many giraffes, zebras and elephants in Serengeti. At the Ngorongoro Crater, lions and other animals were seen from close quarters. The guide was very good and explained everything. Accommodations and food were good. I would definitely recommend this trip to those who want to go on a safari in Africa. It's been very nice experience.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   msevenij J 
 
 
 
 Verified Thank you N-M-S team! Northern Masailand Safaris' 4-day safari was very good. We saw a lot of elephants in Tarangire National Park. Lions, giraffes and many animals have been seen in the vast fields of Serengeti. I saw the Big Five in one day at Ngorongoro Crater. Accommodation was very comfortable, food was good and the staff were very helpful. As a group Safari, we talked to a lot of new people. A lot of fun was had by all.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Henry X 
 
 
 
 Verified Kenya at Its Best – Wildlife, Nature & Luxury We couldn't have chosen anything better. This 10-day package covers all the most important parks without any haste. Samburu gave a much wilder and different feel, Nakuru was beautiful with flamingos, Masai Mara gave us the opportunity to see lions hunting, and Amboseli had a herd of elephants in the backdrop of Kilimanjaro. Accommodations were excellent, food was fresh and delicious, and service was top class from start to finish. A special thank you to our guide James - his story and skills made every game drive a thrill.

Why Choose Northern Masailand Safari to Make Your Journey

0 +

Years Experienced

LIMITED AVAILABILITY!

Book Your 2025/2026 Safari Now & Get a Free Masai Culture Tour!

The Maasai are a proud and vibrant tribe known for their distinctive customs and way of life. This free tour offers a unique opportunity to interact with the Maasai people.

Still Have Questions? We’re Here to Help! Contact Us

Everything You Need to Know Before You Travel.

When should I book my safari with Northern MasaiLand Safaris?

To secure the best lodges and ensure park availability, we recommend booking at least six months in advance, especially if you’re planning to travel during peak seasons, such as June to October or December to February.

How do I begin the booking process?

It’s simple. Reach out to us directly through our website, email, or WhatsApp. Let us know your:

Preferred travel dates
Group size
Budget and interests
We’ll send you a customized itinerary within 24–48 hours.

What details do you need from me to get started?

We’ll need your:

Travel dates (fixed or flexible)
Number of travelers (adults and children)
Safari preferences (e.g., luxury, mid-range, or budget)
Activities you’re interested in (e.g., game drives, hot air balloon, cultural visits)

How much is the deposit to confirm my safari?

To confirm your safari, we ask for a 30–50% deposit depending on the itinerary. The remaining balance is due 30 to 45 days before your safari begins.

Is travel insurance required?

Yes, it’s highly recommended. Your policy should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and baggage loss.

Payment Policy

Deposit and Booking Confirmation

A 30% to 50% deposit is required to confirm your safari booking.
The balance must be paid in full no later than 30 to 45 days before the safari start date.
Bookings made within 30 days of the safari require full payment at the time of confirmation.

Accepted Payment Methods

We accept the following payment options:

Bank wire transfer (details provided upon request)
Credit/Debit card (processing fees may apply)
Mobile payment options are available in Tanzania
USD ($) is the preferred currency for all transactions

Please note: All bank charges and currency conversion fees are the responsibility of the client.

Refund Policy

Cancellation by Client

If you choose to cancel your safari, the following refund terms apply based on the number of days before your safari start date:

Notice Period Before Travel	Refund on Total Payment
More than 60 days	90% refund
45 – 59 days	75% refund
30 – 44 days	50% refund
15 – 29 days	25% refund
Less than 15 days	No refund

All refunds exclude transaction, bank, and administrative fees.
No refunds will be issued for no-shows, missed departures, or unused services once the safari begins.

Cancellation by Northern MasaiLand Safaris

In the unlikely event that we must cancel your trip due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g. natural disaster, political instability, or other force majeure events), you will be offered:

A full refund, or
The option to reschedule your safari at no extra cost

Amendment Policy

Date or itinerary changes are allowed free of charge up to 30 days before departure, subject to availability.
Within 30 days, amendments may incur extra charges based on supplier policies (lodges, airlines, etc.).

Refund Process

All approved refunds are processed within 14 business days.
Refunds are returned using the same method of original payment, unless otherwise agreed.

Passport & Visa Requirements

Passport Validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date into Tanzania, with at least two blank pages.
Tourist Visa: Required for most nationalities. You can:
- Apply online via the official Tanzania Immigration website: https://visa.immigration.go.tz
- Or get a visa on arrival at major airports (Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar)
- Cost: Typically $50 USD, $100 USD for U.S. citizens (subject to change)
Tip: We recommend applying online at least 2–3 weeks before travel for faster processing.

Vaccination & Health Requirements

Yellow Fever Vaccination:
- Required only if you are arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever–risk country (e.g., Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia).
- You must carry your Yellow Fever certificate if applicable.
Recommended Vaccines:
- Tetanus, Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and COVID-19 (not mandatory but encouraged)
Malaria Prevention:
- Tanzania is a malaria-risk zone; consult your doctor for suitable anti-malarial medication.
- Use mosquito repellent and wear long sleeves at dawn/dusk.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory when booking with Northern MasaiLand Safaris. Your policy should cover:
- Medical emergencies and evacuation
- Trip cancellation or interruption
- Lost or delayed baggage
- COVID-19-related delays (if applicable)
You must provide proof of insurance before arrival.

Flights & Entry Points

- Main Airports:
  - Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – most common for Northern Circuit safaris
  - Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – for southern Tanzania or Zanzibar connections
  - Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ) – for beach holidays
- Domestic Flights: We can book internal connections (Arusha to Serengeti, Zanzibar, etc.) as part of your itinerary.

Currency & Payments

Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), though USD is widely accepted.
Cards: Credit/debit cards accepted at most lodges (some with surcharges), but carry cash for tips, local markets, and small purchases.
ATMs: Available in major towns (Arusha, Moshi, Zanzibar), but not in national parks.

EXCELLENT

Based on 189 reviews

Danitza HR

Grandiosos Safaris y se encargaron de todos los detalles de la mejor manera Fue una gran experiencia que nos permitió disfrutar de safaris increíbles disfrutando la vida salvaje. Siempre con guías amables y pacientes con la experiencia requerida para explorar y poder ver todos los Animales, viajamos con nuestro hijo de seis años, y siempre una excelente disposición y paciencia para que el viaje también fuera cómodo y emocionante para él. Todo fue acorde con lo planeado y se encargaron de todos los detalles

Roxani A

Love, Adventure and Luxury in East Africa We booked the 15 Days Luxury Honeymoon Safari & Zanzibar Escape package of Northern Masailand Safaris for our honeymoon and it turned out to be a truly unforgettable experience. From the beginning, we were warmly welcomed at Kilimanjaro International Airport. The private guide took us to the Rivertrees Country Inn, where our trip began with a romantic dinner and couples spa session in the wonderful setting between Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro. Ngorongoro Crater's full-day game drive was the highlight. In addition to seeing the Big Five, the cultural encounter with the Hadzabe tribe in Lake Eyasi was very interesting. Luxurious accommodation such as Gibb's Farm, farm-to-table meals and romantic forest walks were perfect for us. The sight of the cheetahs and the lantern-lit bush dinner at the Namiri Plains Camp in the eastern Serengeti was magical. I got a chance to see the Great Wildebeest Migration near the Mara River at Sayari Camp in Northern Serengeti (although according to our timing). Taking a hot-air balloon safari (optional) was the most memorable moment - along with a champagne breakfast. Finally, a 4-day all-inclusive stay at Zuri Zanzibar's beachfront villa in Zanzibar was the perfect ending. Our honeymoon was thoroughly romanticized with a private sunset dhow cruise, snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll, Stone Town visits, and spa treatments. Private 4x4 vehicles, professional guides, full-board mills, and honeymoon special arrangements were all great. The price seems a little high, but I got the full value for money. I highly recommend this package for those who want a luxury honeymoon. Thank you so much to Northern Masailand Safaris for such a dream trip.

Ryan Miller

Fantastic Safari with Breathtaking Scenery Safaris was amazing! As soon as we entered the Tarangire National Park, we were fascinated to see the huge elephant herd and the ancient baobab trees. Our guide Joseph was great - very knowledgeable, patient and always looking for the best views. Ngorongoro Crater was the most memorable part. Seeing thousands of flamingos and amazing views from the top of the crater, I felt like I was in a dream. It is also unforgettable to see the vast fields and animals of Serengeti. The accommodation was comfortable, the food was delicious and the whole team kept us very safe and cared for. If you want to do a good quality safari avoiding the crowd, then this is the best. It's highly recommended!

Abraham D

Four Days Filled with Wildlife and Great Memories I had a wonderful experience with this 4 Days Lodging Safari (Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro). This package of Northern Masailand Safaris was really exciting and well organized.. From the very first day in Tarangire NP,, we saw huge herds of elephants - so close that it felt like entering their world. In the endless plains of the Serengeti,, it was a privilege to see all of the Big Five, especially the proud movements of the lions and the shadowy presence of the leopards. And Ngorongoro Crater is truly the "Garden of Animals" - the possibility of seeing the Big Five in one day is amazing! The lodgings were comfortable, the food was delicious, and the guides were very knowledgeable and helpful. Teaming up on a group safari with people from different parts of the world has made the experience even richer. If you want to enjoy the best natural beauty of Tanzania, then do not miss this safari.

Kay M

Comfortable Stay & Incredible Wildlife We had a great experience with Northern Masailand Safaris on a 3D Lodging Safari (Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara). It was especially unforgettable to see different wildlife together in the vast open space inside the Ngorongoro Crater. The guide was very friendly and knowledgeable, explained everything very well. It was a great evening game drive with the monkeys on the trees of Lake Manyara and under the giant baobab trees of Tarangire. Accommodation was very comfortable and the food was excellent. This 3 day package was perfect as we had little time. I would definitely recommend NORTHERN≈MASAILAND≈SAFARIS.

Sebastian Johan... S

Nature, Culture and Comfort in One Amazing Trip Northern Masailand Safaris offers an excellent mix of wildlife sightings and cultural experiences in their 3-day itinerary. From Arusha to Lake Manyara, then to Ngorongoro Crater where it seems that this is the garden of paradise - rhinoceros, lion and thousands of animals. And the end of the whole trip with Tarangire's iconic baobab tree was amazing. The owner of the company, a real Maasai Warrior, with his personal story and extraordinary tracking skills showed us all the animals that others used to miss. His team was very warm, knowledgeable and treated us like family. The logistics were perfect, the car was comfortable and the view of the sunset at the High View Hotel was unforgettable. I was very impressed by their mission to help Maasai orphaned girls and preserve East African heritage. It added depth and purpose to the trip. If you want a connected, glamorous but real safari with nature and people, book with N.M.S.

Spencer S

An unforgettable authentic Maasai adventure! I had a wonderful 3 day safari experience with Northern Masaland Safaris in Arusha. The owner's knowledge and passion for his heritage is truly inspiring.... He took us to a hidden place away from the crowd, where we saw traditional Maasai medical practices, local bombs (villages), and tasted real food. The off-road adventure through the extraordinary wild nature of Northern Tanzania was thrilling. We have also seen rare rhinos. The team was very professional, punctual and kept us completely safe and cared for. It wasn't just a safari - it was a meaningful cultural experience. We have come back to understand and love Tanzania very deeply. Thank you so much to the whole team - we will definitely be back!

Xavier R

Wonderful Wildlife Encounters in Tanzania The 5 day trip was great. I've been to Lake Manyara, Serengeti and Ngorongoro. I have seen many giraffes, zebras and elephants in Serengeti. At the Ngorongoro Crater, lions and other animals were seen from close quarters. The guide was very good and explained everything. Accommodations and food were good. I would definitely recommend this trip to those who want to go on a safari in Africa. It's been very nice experience.

msevenij J

Thank you N-M-S team! Northern Masailand Safaris' 4-day safari was very good. We saw a lot of elephants in Tarangire National Park. Lions, giraffes and many animals have been seen in the vast fields of Serengeti. I saw the Big Five in one day at Ngorongoro Crater. Accommodation was very comfortable, food was good and the staff were very helpful. As a group Safari, we talked to a lot of new people. A lot of fun was had by all.

Henry X

Kenya at Its Best – Wildlife, Nature & Luxury We couldn't have chosen anything better. This 10-day package covers all the most important parks without any haste. Samburu gave a much wilder and different feel, Nakuru was beautiful with flamingos, Masai Mara gave us the opportunity to see lions hunting, and Amboseli had a herd of elephants in the backdrop of Kilimanjaro. Accommodations were excellent, food was fresh and delicious, and service was top class from start to finish. A special thank you to our guide James - his story and skills made every game drive a thrill.