THE SIX NEW UGANDA SAFARI PARKS 2025

Uganda, often hailed as the “Pearl of Africa,” has long captivated travelers with its unparalleled biodiversity, from mist-shrouded mountain gorilla habitats to the thundering cascades of Murchison Falls.

In a landmark decision ratified by the Cabinet in mid-September 2025, the government gazetted six new national parks, elevating the country’s total from 10 to 16.

This expansion transforms former forest and wildlife reserves—Bukaleba, Echuya, Kyambura, Kigezi, Toro, and Katonga—into fully protected national parks under the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

The move is more than administrative; it’s a strategic leap toward bolstering conservation, mitigating human-wildlife conflicts, and enriching Uganda’s safari tourism landscape.

These new parks span diverse ecosystems: lush montane forests, expansive savannah corridors, wetland havens, and lakeside woodlands.

They address pressing challenges like encroachment, poaching, and habitat fragmentation while unlocking fresh safari experiences. For instance, Kyambura’s chimpanzee-filled gorge complements Queen Elizabeth National Park, while Bukaleba’s shores along Lake Victoria promise aquatic adventures.

As Uganda’s tourism sector rebounds globally, these additions diversify itineraries, drawing eco-enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and big-game seekers to lesser-trodden trails.

Managed collaboratively with the National Forestry Authority (NFA), the parks emphasize community involvement, revenue-sharing, and sustainable development, ensuring benefits ripple to local livelihoods.

This guide delves into each park’s essence, preparing you for an unforgettable Ugandan odyssey.

Why Were They Made National Parks? 

The gazetting of these six areas stems from a multifaceted national strategy, approved on September 7, 2025, to fortify Uganda’s conservation framework amid rising environmental pressures.

Primarily, it grants amplified legal safeguards under the Uganda Wildlife Act, shielding against deforestation, illegal logging, charcoal burning, unregulated grazing, and poaching—threats that plagued their reserve status.

By aligning with UWA’s robust management, the parks gain enhanced ranger deployments, anti-poaching patrols, and funding from tourism revenues, creating buffer zones around existing icons like Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks.

A core driver is curbing human-wildlife conflict, exacerbated by Uganda’s burgeoning population encroaching on wildlife corridors.

Clearer boundaries and increased resources foster harmonious coexistence, particularly in agricultural frontiers where elephants, buffaloes, and primates roam.

Biodiversity preservation is paramount; these sites safeguard Albertine Rift endemics, wetland species, and migratory routes, boosting ecosystem resilience through rewilding potential and gene flow.

Tourism diversification is equally pivotal. Uganda’s safari appeal, anchored by gorilla trekking and tree-climbing lions, now extends to offbeat gems: chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura, birding in Echuya, or canoe safaris in Katonga.

This broadens geographic spread—easing western concentration—and stimulates economic growth via jobs in guiding, hospitality, and infrastructure.

Communities bordering the parks access revenue-sharing (up to 20% of development fees), cultural tourism, and eco-initiatives, aligning conservation with livelihoods.

Regionally, it syncs with East African trends, like Rwanda’s expansions, enhancing transboundary partnerships and global funding for hotspots.

Challenges like financing and enforcement loom, but the vision is clear: a greener, more inclusive Uganda, where safaris fuel both adventure and stewardship.

Bukaleba National Park 

Nestled in Mayuge District, eastern Uganda, Bukaleba National Park hugs the northern shores of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake. Spanning approximately 97 square kilometers, it blends lakeside wetlands with upland forests, offering a serene counterpoint to Uganda’s inland savannahs.

Originally a colonial-era plantation in the early 20th century, Bukaleba evolved into a forest reserve under NFA oversight, combating degradation from logging and settlement.

Its 2025 gazetting to national park status, ratified in September, honors its role in aquatic biodiversity while curbing encroachment, marking a shift toward integrated lake-forest conservation.

Attractions In Bukaleba National Park 

Bukaleba dazzles with a mosaic of habitats: verdant woodlands teeming with monkeys (vervet and black-and-white colobus), antelopes like duikers, and over 200 bird species, including kingfishers and herons. Lake Victoria’s shores host hippos, Nile crocodiles, and otters, while reptiles and aquatic fauna thrive in papyrus swamps.

Things to Do in Bukaleba National Park

Embark on scenic boat safaris for hippo pods and birdwatching; forest walks reveal primates and butterflies; fishing tours yield tilapia and Nile perch. Community cultural experiences with lakeside Baganda villagers add depth, blending nature with storytelling.

Bukaleba National Park Accommodations 

Options are emerging: UWA bandas/camps for budget campers (UGX 20,000/night), eco-lodges like Bukaleba Forest Lodge (mid-range, ~UGX 300,000/person), and nearby Jinja hotels for luxury (e.g., Wildwaters Lodge, ~UGX 1,500,000/night). Community homestays offer authentic immersion.

Best Time to Visit Bukaleba National Park 

June to September (dry season) ensures clear views and active wildlife; December to February brings migratory birds. Avoid April-May rains for muddy trails.

Getting To Bukaleba National Park 

Fly into Entebbe International Airport (1-hour drive to Jinja), then a 1.5-hour road transfer via Kampala-Jinja highway to Mayuge (public matatus or private 4x4s recommended). Chartered flights to Bugembe Airstrip shorten the journey.

Echuya National Park 

In the misty highlands of Kisoro and Rubanda Districts, southwestern Uganda, near Rwanda and DRC borders, Echuya covers 37 square kilometers of Albertine Rift montane forests, a global biodiversity hotspot.

Designated a central forest reserve in 1931 for its bamboo and montane ecosystems, Echuya faced logging pressures until NFA protections.

Its September 2025 upgrade to the national park amplifies safeguards, integrating it with nearby gorilla havens like Bwindi.

Attractions In Echuya National Park 

Echuya is an avian paradise with 150+ Albertine Rift endemics (e.g., Rwenzori turacos, bamboo warblers) and primates like blue monkeys. Bamboo groves, orchids, and highland scenery harbor rare amphibians and butterflies, underscoring its ecoregion status.

Things To Do in Echuya National Park 

Guided forest hikes and bamboo treks unveil endemics; birdwatching tours spotlight lifers; cultural immersions with Batwa pygmies share indigenous lore. Photography safaris capture fog-veiled ridges.

Accommodations In Echuya National Park 

Basic UWA campsites (UGX 15,000/night); mid-range Rubanda eco-cottages (~UGX 250,000); luxury at nearby Lake Bunyonyi lodges like Birdnest Resort (~UGX 800,000/night, with views).

Best Time to Visit in Echuya National Park

June-October for dry trails and peak birding is the best time to explore Echuya; with March-May perfect for wildflowers, though wetter.

Getting To Echuya National Park 

Domestic flight to Kigali (Rwanda), then a 2-hour drive via Kisoro, or Entebbe-Kampala Road (8 hours) to Rubanda. 4×4 essential for hilly access.

Kyambura National Park 

Adjoining Queen Elizabeth National Park in western Uganda’s Kyambura Gorge—nicknamed “Valley of Apes”—this 156-square-kilometer park straddles Bushenyi and Rubirizi Districts, a deep, forested ravine slicing the savannah.

A wildlife reserve since the 1990s, known for chimpanzee tracking, Kyambura’s 2025 annexation and elevation builds on Queen Elizabeth’s protections, addressing poaching and expanding primate conservation post-colonial forest management.

Kyambura NP Attractions

The gorge shelters 13+ primate species: habituated chimpanzees, colobus, red-tailed monkeys, and baboons. Over 300 birds (African grey flycatchers) and lush riverine forests with hippos in the Kyambura River add allure.

Things To Do in Kyambura NP

Chimpanzee tracking (half-day hikes, UGX 200,000/permit); nature walks through vine-draped cliffs; birding and photography. Combine with Queen Elizabeth game drives.

Kyambura NP Accommodations

Mweya Safari Lodge (luxury, ~UGX 1,200,000/night); budget tents at UWA sites (UGX 30,000); mid-range Kyambura Gorge Lodge (~UGX 400,000).

Best Time to Visit Kyambura NP 

Dry seasons from June to September for easier gorge access are the best time to visit Kyambura NP; though chimps are active year-round, avoid heavy rains if tracking.

Getting To Kyambura NP 

Entebbe flight to Kasese Airstrip (1 hour), then 1-hour drive; or 5-hour road from Kampala via Mbarara. 4×4 safari vehicle advised for gorge entry.

Kigezi National Park 

In Kabale District, southwestern Uganda, bordering Queen Elizabeth, Kigezi spans 250 square kilometers of rolling savannah plains and hills, linking rift ecosystems.

Evolved from a 1950s wildlife reserve to combat habitat loss, its 2025 gazetting annexes it to Queen Elizabeth, enhancing corridor protections amid regional expansions.

Attractions In Kigezi NP

Vast grazing for buffalo herds, elephants, and antelopes; predators like leopards; 200+ birds. Savannah mosaics support migratory wildlife.

Things To Do in Kigezi NP

Game drives for big herds; guided walks; cultural tours with Kigezi communities. Photography of undulating landscapes.

Accommodations In and Close to Kigezi NP

UWA camps (UGX 25,000); mid-range Lake Bunyonyi Rock Resort (~UGX 350,000), etc.

Best Time to Visit in Kigezi NP 

June-September, which is the dry season, is best for drives, while December-February is perfect for the bird influx.

Getting To Kigezi NP

Entebbe-Kampala Road (6 hours) to Kabale; or fly to Kigali, 3-hour drive. Roads are paved but winding.

Toro National Park

Found in western Uganda’s Toro-Semliki region, bordering DRC, Toro NP covers 500 square kilometers of grasslands, woodlands, and rivers in Bundibugyo District.

A game reserve since 1932, it was upgraded in 2025 to counter poaching, building on Semliki integration for broader habitat security.

Toro NP Attractions 

Savannah megafauna: elephants, lions, Uganda Kob; 400+ birds; scenic rivers with hippos.

Things To Do in Toro NP 

Classic game drives, birding excursions, and river walks. Rewilding sites for observation.

Accommodations In Toro NP 

Semliki Safari Lodge (luxury, ~UGX 1,400,000); UWA tents (UGX 40,000); mid-range Fort Portal hotels (~UGX 300,000).

Best Time to Visit in Toro NP 

Dry seasons from June to October are the optimum times to go to Toro NP for wildlife viewing.

Getting to Toro NP

Entebbe to Hoima Airstrip (fly), 2-hour drive; or 4-hour road from Kampala via Fort Portal.

Katonga National Park 

Central Uganda’s wetland haven, Katonga NP, located between Lake George and Victoria, spans 210 square kilometers in Kyankwanzi District.

Since the 1990s, it has been a wildlife reserve for floodplains. In 2025, it was gazetted as a park to protect against degradation and enhance riverine conservation.

Attractions in Katonga NP 

Rare sitatunga antelopes, waterbirds (300+ species), otters, papyrus swamps with leopards.

Things to Do in Katonga NP 

• Canoe safaris on the Katonga River
• Wetland walks
• Birdwatching

Accommodations in Katonga NP 

• Katonga Cottages (mid-range, ~UGX 250,000)
• UWA camps (UGX 20,000)
• Nearby Masindi lodges.

Best Time to Visit Katonga NP 

December-March for dry access; July-September for migrants are the best months to go to Katonga NP.

Getting To Katonga NP 

Kampala drive (3 hours) via Mityana; matatus available.

Book your Uganda safari holiday now and explore these amazing Uganda National Parks today!

Importance of Unveiling New National Parks 

This expansion cements Uganda’s conservation leadership, preserving 16% more habitats and drawing $1.5B+ annual tourism revenue.

It fosters community empowerment via 20% fee shares for schools and health, reduces conflicts by 30% through buffers, and elevates safari diversity—blending primates, birds, and wetlands.

Globally, it positions Uganda in Rift initiatives, attracting eco-investors and extending stays by 2-3 days for safari holidays.

Rules and Regulations When Visiting New Parks 

Adhere to UWA guidelines:

• Permits mandatory (UGX 50,000-200,000); no off-trail wandering; plastic-free zones; guided activities only.
• Respect wildlife—no feeding; and drones are banned.
• Cultural sensitivity: Ask before taking photos.
• Be ware of fines for violations (UGX 100,000+); support anti-poaching by reporting suspicious activity.

Existing Ten Uganda National Parks 

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: UNESCO site famed for mountain gorilla trekking amid dense forests hosting over 350 vibrant bird species.
2. Queen Elizabeth National Park: Celebrated for tree-climbing lions, Kazinga Channel views, and 600+ bird species; ideal for game drives and boat cruises.
3. Murchison Falls National Park: Showcases dramatic Murchison Falls, giraffes, elephants, and thrilling Nile River boat safaris.
4. Kidepo Valley National Park: Remote savannah haven with cheetahs, ostriches, and authentic Karamojong cultural experiences.
5. Lake Mburo National Park: Perfect for walking safaris, horse riding, and boat trips among zebras and hippos in scenic wetlands.
6. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Hosts gorillas and golden monkeys; offers volcano hikes in the majestic Virunga Mountains.
7. Kibale National Park: Dubbed primate capital, shelters 1,500+ chimpanzees and provides immersive forest walks.
8. Rwenzori Mountains National Park: UNESCO gem with Mount Stanley; excels in mountaineering and unique alpine flora views.
9. Semuliki National Park: Features Sempaya hot springs, forest elephants, and over 400 diverse bird species.
10. Mount Elgon National Park: Boasts world’s largest mountain caldera; invites hiking and fascinating cave explorations.

Visit Uganda today and explore all these safari parks for unforgettable memories!

Conclusion

Uganda’s six new national parks herald a vibrant era for the Pearl of Africa, weaving conservation with adventure. From Bukaleba’s watery realms to Katonga’s hidden antelopes, they invite deeper immersion in Africa’s wild heart.

Plan your safari responsibly—book via UWA, embrace communities—and discover why these gems elevate Uganda’s allure. The future? A legacy of thriving ecosystems and inspired travelers