Night game drives in Uganda provide a rare and thrilling opportunity to experience the African wilderness from a completely different perspective. Unlike traditional daytime safaris, these nocturnal adventures open the door to observing Uganda’s secretive and elusive wildlife that emerges only after sunset. If you’re planning a safari in East Africa and wondering how to make your journey unforgettable, a night game drive should be high on your list.

What Makes Night Game Drives in Uganda Unique?

Uganda is known for its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes. During the day, you can spot animals like elephants, giraffes, lions, and hippos. But once the sun sets, the bush transforms. Creatures that remain hidden during daylight emerge under the cover of darkness. Nocturnal animals such as leopards, hyenas, porcupines, bush babies, genets, and civets become active, giving you a glimpse into a hidden world.

Night game drives also enhance your chances of witnessing rare predator-prey interactions and behavior patterns that are impossible to see during daylight hours. With spotlights, expert guides, and ranger escorts, you are set to discover another side of Uganda’s wildlife.

Where Can You Go for Night Game Drives in Uganda?

Not all parks in Uganda allow night game drives, but several key locations are officially approved and offer well-organized experiences.

Queen Elizabeth National Park: This park is one of the best spots for night game drives in Uganda. The Kasenyi Plains and Mweya Peninsula are popular zones where visitors may encounter nocturnal predators like lions and leopards hunting.

Murchison Falls National Park: Known for its expansive savannah and rich diversity, Murchison offers thrilling nighttime excursions, especially around the northern sector. The drive may also include stops near the falls to appreciate the roaring sound under the night sky.

Lake Mburo National Park: This is the only national park in Uganda where you can do a night game drive inside the park even with your own vehicle, as long as you have an armed ranger. It is ideal for seeing leopards, bush babies, and other smaller nocturnal animals.

What Animals Can You See During a Night Game Drive?

The list of nocturnal wildlife in Uganda is long and fascinating. Some of the species you might encounter include:

• Leopards: Typically shy and solitary, leopards are more likely to be spotted at night when they become active hunters.
• Hyenas: You may witness these scavengers patrolling their territories or hear their eerie laughs piercing the night.
• Genets and Civets: These small, cat-like mammals are rarely seen during the day but are active and curious at night.
• Bush Babies: With their large eyes and agile movements, these primates are among the most adorable nocturnal creatures.
• Porcupines and Mongooses: Often seen foraging, they add to the diversity of your night-time safari experience.
• Owls and Nightjars: For bird enthusiasts, the nocturnal avian species bring another layer of excitement.

Is a Night Game Drive Safe?

Yes, night game drives in Uganda are safe when conducted by licensed operators. Drives are carried out in safari vehicles equipped with spotlights, and they are always accompanied by trained guides and sometimes an armed ranger. It is essential to follow safety instructions, stay inside the vehicle, and avoid loud noises or sudden movements that could disturb the animals.

What Should You Pack for a Night Game Drive?

Preparation is key to enjoying your night safari to the fullest. Here’s what you should bring:

• Warm clothing: Even in Uganda’s tropical climate, nights can get chilly in open vehicles.
• Binoculars: Some animals are far off, and a good pair of binoculars enhances your viewing experience.
• Insect repellent: Protect yourself from mosquito bites and other insects.
• Camera with night mode: Capturing memories of your nocturnal safari is easier with the right equipment.
• Flashlight or headlamp: Useful when you’re not in the vehicle (e.g., during breaks or while boarding).

When Is the Best Time to Go on a Night Game Drive in Uganda?

Uganda has two main dry seasons: from December to February and from June to September. These months are ideal for night game drives because the roads are easier to navigate, and animals are more likely to congregate around waterholes, making sightings more predictable.

That said, night drives are still possible during the wet season (March–May and October–November), but roads can be muddy and harder to access. The wet season also brings lush vegetation, which can make animal spotting a bit more challenging.

How Long Does a Night Game Drive Last?

Typically, night game drives in Uganda last between two to three hours, starting just after sunset, usually around 6:30 PM. Depending on the park, the drives may be extended slightly longer, especially if interesting sightings occur.

How Much Do Night Game Drives Cost?

Prices vary depending on the park and the tour operator. On average:

• In Queen Elizabeth National Park, a night game drive organized by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) costs about $30 to $40 per person, excluding vehicle and guide fees.
• Private safari operators may charge between $50 and $100 per person, depending on group size and inclusions such as snacks or drinks.
• In Lake Mburo National Park, self-drive night game drives with a ranger cost approximately $40.

Always check with your lodge or tour company in advance, as some include night game drives in their safari packages.

Can You Combine Night Game Drives with Other Activities?

Yes, many visitors choose to create a well-rounded safari experience by combining night game drives with other activities such as:

• Morning and afternoon game drives
• Boat safaris on the Nile or Kazinga Channel
• Bird watching tours
• Chimpanzee or gorilla trekking (in nearby parks like Kibale or Bwindi)
• Nature walks and cultural visits

Combining these activities provides a 360-degree view of Uganda’s natural and cultural heritage.

Are Night Game Drives Suitable for Families with Children?

Night game drives can be a magical experience for children, but they are generally recommended for kids above 6 years old. The darkness, unfamiliar sounds, and prolonged sitting can be overwhelming for younger kids. However, for older children and teens, night drives offer an unforgettable adventure filled with excitement and education.

Why Should You Add a Night Game Drive to Your Uganda Safari?

Night game drives in Uganda elevate your safari from ordinary to extraordinary. They introduce you to a nocturnal world filled with mystery, predator-prey dynamics, and rare wildlife encounters. For photographers, it offers the chance to capture unique animal behavior. For wildlife lovers, it’s an opportunity to learn about and appreciate the lesser-seen side of the animal kingdom.

Above all, night drives diversify your safari itinerary and make your time in Uganda even more memorable.

Is a Night Game Drive in Uganda Worth It?

Absolutely. A night game drive is not just another activity—it’s an experience that immerses you in the African wilderness in its rawest, most unpredictable form. Whether you’re watching a leopard silently stalking its prey or listening to the calls of a distant hyena under the starlit sky, the thrill of the unknown is unmatched.

Uganda’s commitment to wildlife conservation, professional guides, and scenic national parks make it a top destination for both day and night safaris. If you’re looking to go beyond the usual and venture into the wild after dark, night game drives in Uganda offer the perfect blend of excitement, education, and enchantment.

Let the night reveal its secrets—book your night game drive and witness Uganda’s wild nightlife in all its glory.