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NEW UGANDA WILDLIFE SAFARI PARKS IN 2025: A LEAP FOR SUSTAINABILITY AND ECO-TOURISM
In September 2025, Uganda made a bold stride in conservation and eco-tourism by designating six new national parks, increasing its total from 10 to 16, which will offer additional Uganda safari adventures to tourists.
This transformative decision, approved by the Ugandan Cabinet, elevates former wildlife and forest reserves to full national park status under the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
The initiative strengthens biodiversity protection, mitigates human-wildlife conflict, and enhances Uganda’s appeal as a premier safari destination.
By aligning with Uganda’s Vision 2040 for sustainable development, these parks aim to safeguard ecosystems while boosting eco-tourism through diverse attractions like primate tracking, birdwatching, and cultural experiences.
Why Uganda Added Six New National Parks?
The transition of these reserves to national parks addresses several critical objectives:
- Enhanced Legal Protections: National Park status under the Uganda Wildlife Act provides robust safeguards against poaching, illegal logging, and unregulated land use, ensuring long-term habitat preservation.
- Biodiversity Conservation: The parks protect critical ecosystems in the Albertine Rift, Lake Victoria basin, and northern Uganda, securing habitats for endangered species like chimpanzees, forest elephants, and rare birds.
- Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation: Increased ranger presence and buffer zones reduce tensions between growing human populations and wildlife, particularly in areas like Kigezi and Otzi East.
- Eco-Tourism Growth: The parks diversify Uganda’s tourism offerings, complementing gorilla trekking in Bwindi and chimpanzee tracking in Kibale with new safari experiences, attracting global travelers.
- Economic Benefits: Revenue-sharing schemes, job creation (e.g., rangers, guides), and infrastructure investments stimulate local economies and support sustainable development.
Overview of Uganda’s Six New National Parks
Below is a look at the newly gazetted national parks, their unique ecosystems, and the experiences they offer for tourists on Uganda safaris.
Bukaleba National Park
| ASPECT | DESCRIPTION |
| LOCATION | Mayuge District, eastern Uganda, along Lake Victoria’s shores, near Jinja, East Africa’s adventure capital. |
| SIZE | Approximately 9,500 hectares (95 sq km) |
| ECOSYSTEM | Lakeside tropical forests and wetlands making it a biodiversity hotspot |
| KEY ATTRACTIONS | Over 100 bird species, monkeys, antelopes, reptiles, and scenic lake views |
| ACTIVITIES | Boat safaris on Lake Victoria, guided forest walks, birdwatching, regulated fishing, photography tours, and cultural experiences with local communities |
| CONSERVATION FOCUS | Protects against agricultural encroachment and illegal logging, preserving a critical lakeside ecosystem |
| WHY VISIT | Its proximity to Jinja makes it ideal for combining eco-tourism with adventure activities like white-water rafting or visiting the Source of the Nile |
Echuya National Park
| ASPECT | DESCRIPTION |
| LOCATION | Kisoro and Rubanda Districts, southwestern Uganda, near the Rwanda and DRC borders in the Albertine Rift |
| SIZE | Approximately 37,000 hectares (370 sq km) |
| ECOSYSTEM | Montane cloud forests and bamboo stands, a haven for rare species |
| KEY ATTRACTIONS | Blue monkeys, over 150 bird species (including the endangered Grauer’s Swamp Warbler), and cultural ties to the Batwa community |
| ACTIVITIES | Primate tracking, birdwatching, guided hiking, eco-cultural tours with Batwa guides, and potential canopy tours.
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| CONSERVATION FOCUS | Safeguards fragile montane ecosystems, complementing nearby Bwindi and Mgahinga gorilla trekking hubs |
| WHY VISIT | Perfect for birders and eco-tourists seeking serene forest trails and cultural immersion near Uganda’s gorilla parks |
Kyambura National Park
| ASPECT | DESCRIPTION |
| LOCATION | Rubirizi District, western Uganda, adjacent to Queen Elizabeth National Park |
| SIZE | Approximately 15,700 hectares (157 sq km) |
| ECOSYSTEM | Sunken forest in the dramatic Kyambura Gorge, carved by the Kyambura River |
| KEY ATTRACTIONS | Chimpanzees, 13 primate species (e.g., black-and-white colobus monkeys), forest elephants, hippos, and diverse birdlife |
| ACTIVITIES | Chimpanzee habituation and tracking, gorge hiking, birdwatching, and community visits |
| CONSERVATION FOCUS | Protects the “lost” chimpanzee population and prevents encroachment, enhancing primate tourism |
| WHY VISIT | Offers a unique chimpanzee trekking experience in a stunning gorge, ideal for combining with Queen Elizabeth safaris. |
Kigezi National Park
| ASPECT | DESCRIPTION |
| LOCATION | Western Uganda, near Queen Elizabeth National Park, at 1,050m in the Central African Rift Valley. |
| SIZE | Approximately 25,000 hectares (250 sq km). |
| ECOSYSTEM | Savannah plains, grasslands, and wetlands, a migratory corridor for wildlife |
| KEY ATTRACTIONS | Elephants, buffalo, antelopes (e.g., Uganda Kob), leopards, and rich birdlife, plus cultural sites linked to the Batwa |
| ACTIVITIES | Game drives, hill hiking, birdwatching, wetland walks, and cultural tours with Batwa guides |
| CONSERVATION FOCUS | Strengthens migratory corridors, reduces human-wildlife conflict, and promotes game-drive tourism |
| WHY VISIT | Ideal for self-drive safaris and wildlife enthusiasts seeking expansive savannah landscapes near Queen Elizabeth |
Toro National Park
| ASPECT | DESCRIPTION |
| LOCATION | Ntoroko and Kabarole Districts, western Uganda, near the Rwenzori Mountains and Lake Albert |
| SIZE | Approximately 20,000 hectares (200 sq km) |
| ECOSYSTEM | Savannah-forest mix, supporting diverse wildlife |
| KEY ATTRACTIONS | Elephants, buffalo, leopards, Uganda Kob, and over 200 bird species, with scenic Rwenzori Mountain views |
| ACTIVITIES | Game drives, guided bush walks, birdwatching, wildlife viewing hides, and community-led conservation projects |
| CONSERVATION FOCUS | Protects migratory routes and ecosystems, enhancing tourism near the Rwenzori trekking routes |
| WHY VISIT | Combines classic safari experiences with proximity to mountaineering adventures in the Rwenzoris. |
Katonga National Park
| ASPECT | DESCRIPTION |
| LOCATION | Kyenjojo and Kamwenge Districts, central Uganda, near Lake George
|
| SIZE | Approximately 42,800 hectares (428 sq km). |
| ECOSYSTEM | Riverine grasslands and wetlands along the Katonga River |
| KEY ATTRACTIONS | Hippos, crocodiles, waterbirds, antelopes, and birding hotspots
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| ACTIVITIES | Boat safaris, hippo and crocodile spotting, guided walking trails, birdwatching, and canoeing.
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| CONSERVATION FOCUS | Preserves wetland ecosystems and migratory routes, promoting eco-tourism in central Uganda.
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| WHY VISIT | Offers serene boat-based safaris and a less-crowded alternative to Uganda’s busier parks.
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Tourism Opportunities to Look Forward to From the New Uganda Safari Parks In 2025-2026
The new parks diversify Uganda’s safari offerings, appealing to travelers seeking unique, less-crowded experiences. Key highlights for visitors include:
- Diverse Activities: From chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura and Kalinzu to boat safaris in Bukaleba and Katonga, the parks cater to primate enthusiasts, birders, and adventure seekers.
- Accessibility: New trails, lodges, and visitor facilities are expected to roll out in late 2025–early 2026. Entry fees align with existing parks ($40–$70 USD for foreigners), with special permits for activities like birding, game drives, chimpanzee tracking, etc.
- Cultural Experiences: Engage with local communities, such as the Batwa in Echuya and Kigezi, for authentic cultural tours that complement wildlife adventures.
- Sustainable Travel: Low-impact tours supporting community initiatives, ensuring your visit contributes to conservation and local livelihoods.
Economic and Community Impact of the New Safari Parks
The new parks are a boon for Uganda’s economy and local communities:
- Revenue Generation: Increased tourism revenue from park fees, guided tours, and lodging supports national and local economies.
- Job Creation: Roles such as rangers, guides, and hospitality staff provide employment opportunities, particularly for communities near the parks.
- Revenue Sharing: UWA’s revenue-sharing programs distribute park income to local communities, funding schools, healthcare, and sustainable enterprises.
- Regional Connectivity: Improved infrastructure, like roads and lodges, enhances access to remote areas, boosting local businesses.
Conservation Benefits from The New Safari Parks in Uganda
The new parks strengthen Uganda’s conservation framework by:
- Protecting Diverse Ecosystems: From Bukaleba’s lakeside forests to Katonga’s wetlands, the parks cover varied habitats, ensuring comprehensive biodiversity protection.
- Securing Migration Corridors: Parks like Kigezi and Toro maintain connectivity between habitats, supporting wildlife movement and genetic diversity.
- Combating Threats: Enhanced ranger patrols and legal protections address poaching, deforestation, and illegal grazing, aligning with global 30% land protection goals by 2030.
- Supporting Endangered Species: Chimpanzees in Kyambura, rare birds in Echuya, and forest elephants in Toro benefit from dedicated conservation efforts.
Expected Challenges and Solutions for The Creation of New Parks
While the new parks promise significant benefits, challenges remain:
- Encroachment and Illegal Activities: Agricultural expansion and logging threaten areas like Bukaleba and Echuya. UWA plans to deploy more rangers and enforce stricter regulations.
- Human-Wildlife Conflict: Buffer zones and compensation schemes will mitigate conflicts, particularly in Kigezi.
- Infrastructure Needs: Investments in roads, lodges, and visitor centers are critical for accessibility and tourism growth.
- Community Engagement: Partnerships with NGOs and local communities will promote conservation awareness and sustainable practices.
Uganda’s Existing National Parks
Before 2025, Uganda was renowned for its 10 national parks, each offering unique ecosystems and attractions:
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: A UNESCO site in southwestern Uganda, famous for mountain gorilla trekking and over 350 bird species.
- Queen Elizabeth National Park: Known for tree-climbing lions, the Kazinga Channel, and over 600 bird species, offering game drives and boat cruises.
- Murchison Falls National Park: Features the dramatic Murchison Falls, with giraffes, elephants, and boat safaris on the Nile.
- Kidepo Valley National Park: A remote savannah park with cheetahs, ostriches, and cultural tours with the Karamojong.
- Lake Mburo National Park: Ideal for walking safaris, horse riding, and boat trips, hosting zebras and hippos.
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Home to gorillas and golden monkeys, with volcano hikes in the Virunga Mountains.
- Kibale National Park: The “Primate Capital of the World,” with over 1,500 chimpanzees and forest walks.
- Rwenzori Mountains National Park: A UNESCO site with Mount Stanley, offering mountaineering and alpine flora sightings.
- Semuliki National Park: Known for Sempaya hot springs, forest elephants, and over 400 bird species.
- Mount Elgon National Park: Features the world’s largest mountain caldera, with hiking and cave exploration.
Plan Your Uganda Safari
Uganda’s new national parks offer fresh reasons to explore the “Pearl of Africa.” Whether you’re drawn to chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura, birdwatching in Echuya, or boat safaris in Bukaleba, these parks promise unforgettable adventures.
For the latest updates, permit bookings, or tailored safari itineraries, visit the UWA website or contact licensed tour operators.
Embrace sustainable travel to support Uganda’s conservation efforts and local communities while discovering its untamed wilderness.
