While Rwanda and Uganda are world-famous for gorilla trekking, many travelers are surprised to learn that these countries also offer exceptional opportunities to see the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros. If you’re planning a safari in East Africa and want to explore beyond the typical tourist routes, this guide will help you discover where and how to see the Big Five in Rwanda and Uganda two of Africa’s most underrated safari destinations.
What Are the Big Five and Why Are They Special?
The term “Big Five” originally referred to the five most difficult animals to hunt on foot, but today it represents the must-see wildlife on any African safari. These animals : You lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino are not only iconic but also play key roles in the ecosystem. Seeing all five in a single trip is a dream for wildlife enthusiasts, and while not as commonly associated with Rwanda and Uganda as Kenya or South Africa, both countries offer fantastic Big Five experiences in beautiful, less-crowded settings.
Where Can You See the Big Five in Uganda?
Uganda offers several parks where you can see most of the Big Five, and with a bit of planning, you can spot all five across different locations. Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the best places to start. Located in western Uganda, this park hosts four of the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes. The Ishasha sector is particularly famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior seen in only a few places in Africa. Game drives here also give you the chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and more than 600 bird species.
To complete the Big Five in Uganda, visit the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. It’s the only place in the country where you can see rhinos in the wild. Conveniently located en route to Murchison Falls National Park, Ziwa offers guided walking safaris where you can track white rhinos on foot—an intimate and unforgettable experience.
Murchison Falls National Park also draws safari lovers from around the world. As Uganda’s largest national park, it provides great opportunities to see lions, elephants, leopards, and buffaloes. It also showcases the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Nile River crashes through a narrow gorge. Game drives and boat safaris here are a highlight of any Ugandan safari.
Where Can You See the Big Five in Rwanda?
Rwanda may be best known for Volcanoes National Park and its mountain gorillas, but Akagera National Park makes Big Five safari dreams come true. Located in eastern Rwanda, Akagera is the only park in the country where you can see all five members of the Big Five in one place. Thanks to successful conservation and reintroduction efforts, lions and black rhinos have returned to the park, making it a fully restored Big Five destination.
Akagera National Park offers a classic savannah safari experience with open plains, acacia woodlands, and wetlands. Visitors can join guided game drives, go on self-drive safaris, or take boat cruises on Lake Ihema to spot hippos and crocodiles. Elephants and buffaloes frequently appear, and with a bit of luck, you may catch sight of a leopard during early morning or evening drives. The park is well-managed and easy to navigate, making it perfect for both first-time and seasoned safari-goers.
When Is the Best Time to See the Big Five in Uganda and Rwanda?
The best time for a Big Five safari in both countries is during the dry seasons, when animals are easier to spot as they gather around water sources. In Uganda and Rwanda, the dry seasons typically run from June to September and December to February. During these months, the roads are more accessible, and the bush is thinner, improving visibility during game drives.
However, both countries offer year-round wildlife viewing, and the wet seasons also come with benefits such as lush scenery, fewer tourists, and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Can You Combine Gorilla Trekking with a Big Five Safari?
Absolutely. One of the biggest advantages of visiting Uganda or Rwanda is the ability to combine gorilla trekking with a classic Big Five safari. In Uganda, you can trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, then head north to Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls for a wildlife safari. In Rwanda, the combination is even more streamlined—start with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, then drive just a few hours east to Akagera National Park for a full Big Five experience.
This combination of rainforest and savannah, primates and predators, makes Uganda and Rwanda uniquely rewarding safari destinations.
Do You Need a Guide for Big Five Safaris in These Countries?
While self-drive safaris are possible, especially in Rwanda’s Akagera National Park, hiring a guide is highly recommended. Local guides have deep knowledge of the terrain and animal behavior, significantly increasing your chances of seeing elusive species like leopards and rhinos. In Uganda, guided safaris are almost essential due to the size and remoteness of the parks, as well as road conditions. Guides also enrich the experience by providing context about animal behavior, conservation challenges, and the unique ecosystems of the parks.
What Other Wildlife Can You See Besides the Big Five?
Beyond the Big Five, Uganda and Rwanda boast rich biodiversity. You’ll likely encounter hippos, crocodiles, giraffes (in Uganda), antelopes, hyenas, and hundreds of bird species including shoebills, eagles, and kingfishers. Rwanda’s wetlands and lakes in Akagera attract large flocks of water birds, while Uganda’s varied habitats make it one of the best birding destinations in Africa.
Is It Worth Doing a Big Five Safari in Uganda or Rwanda?
If you’re seeking a safari experience that combines iconic wildlife, lush landscapes, and fewer crowds, then yes—Uganda and Rwanda are absolutely worth it. You’ll not only have the chance to see the Big Five, but you can also enjoy gorilla trekking, cultural encounters, boat safaris, and breathtaking scenery all in one journey.
Both countries are deeply invested in conservation and community-based tourism, ensuring your visit supports wildlife protection and local livelihoods. With their growing reputations as premier safari destinations, now is the perfect time to explore Rwanda and Uganda before the secret gets out.
