Chances of Spotting Lions and Leopards in Uganda. Uganda safaris provide excellent opportunities for encountering both lions and leopards, though sightings of leopards are more challenging due to their elusive nature. Lions are relatively easier to spot, especially in open savannah areas where they can be seen roaming in prides. Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks are particularly famous for their lion populations. Check our our 3 Days Wildlife Encounter to Queen Elizabeth National Park. These parks offer wide, open spaces where lions are often observed during game drives, particularly near waterholes or in the grasslands.

Leopards, on the other hand, are much more elusive and solitary creatures. While they can be found in various parks across Uganda, such as Murchison Falls, Kidepo Valley, and Lake Mburo National Park, their sightings are rarer. Leopards are mostly nocturnal, making them harder to spot during the day. They prefer dense foliage, rocky outcrops, and the higher trees, where they often rest during the day or hide their prey. Visitors to Uganda can increase their chances of seeing leopards by taking night safaris or being in areas known for their high leopard activity, though it still requires a bit of luck. Nonetheless, both lions and leopards are some of the most sought-after wildlife species on Ugandan safaris, offering a thrilling experience for wildlife enthusiasts.

Chances of spotting Lions and Leopards depend on the guide’s experience and the time you go for the game drive. If all this is fulfilled, the chances of seeing Lions and leopards are in 80% with a good and perfect timing. 

In this blog, we’ll explore the chances of spotting lions and leopards, the best places to see them, and what factors influence these sightings. Whether you’re planning a safari in Uganda or simply dreaming of the ultimate wildlife encounter, this guide will give you all the information you need to enhance your safari experience.

📩 Send us an email: info@kenlinktours.com or inquiries@kenlinktours.com for more details on how to plan a wildlife safari in Uganda.

Lions in Uganda: Where and How Likely Are You to See Them?

Uganda is home to a few notable lion populations, with the most famous residing in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Lions are often spotted in this park’s expansive savanna, particularly around the Ishasha Sector, which is known for its famous tree-climbing lions.

The Ishasha Sector: A Prime Lion Spotting Location

Ishasha is a unique and fascinating part of Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in the southern region of the park near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. The area is famed for its tree-climbing lions, an unusual behavior not commonly seen in other regions of Africa. Lions in this area often climb and rest in fig trees to escape the heat, giving visitors a rare opportunity to observe these majestic creatures from a completely different perspective.

While the tree-climbing behavior is not guaranteed every day, the chances of spotting lions in Ishasha are high, particularly during the cooler hours of the morning or evening when they are most active.

Other Lion Habitats in Uganda

In addition to Queen Elizabeth National Park, lions can also be found in other Ugandan wildlife areas, including Murchison Falls National Park and Kidepo Valley National Park. Both parks offer a variety of landscapes, from open savannas to rugged terrain, which provide suitable habitats for lions.

• Murchison Falls National Park: Lions here can often be spotted in the northern part of the park, especially around the Buligi Peninsula. The park’s famous Nile River provides a stunning backdrop for lion sightings.

• Kidepo Valley National Park: Known for its remote location and vast wilderness, Kidepo offers an authentic safari experience. The park has a healthy population of lions, and although sightings are not as frequent as in Queen Elizabeth, the remote setting allows for a more secluded and rewarding experience.

Best Time to See Lions in Uganda

Lions are generally easier to spot during the early morning or late afternoon, as they are most active during the cooler parts of the day. During these times, they may be seen hunting or resting in the shade. While sightings are never guaranteed, the chances increase during these hours.

Leopards in Uganda: The Elusive Big Cat

Leopards are one of the most elusive big cats in Africa. Known for their secretive nature and nocturnal habits, they are more difficult to spot than lions, but Uganda still offers excellent opportunities to see them. The key to spotting a leopard is knowing where to go and what time to go.

Best Locations for Leopard Sightings

1. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a prime location for leopard sightings. While they are not as frequently seen as lions, leopards can be spotted in the park, especially around the Maramagambo Forest and Kyambura Gorge. Leopards in these areas tend to hide in the dense foliage, making them harder to spot during the day. However, they are more likely to be active at night, so night safaris in Queen Elizabeth can provide a better chance of encountering these elusive creatures.

2. Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park is another fantastic spot for leopards, particularly around the Nile River and the Delta areas. Leopards are known to roam the park’s wide-ranging grasslands and woodlands, and sightings have become more frequent in recent years.

3. Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Valley is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including leopards. The park’s remote location means that it sees fewer tourists, which gives you the opportunity to experience a more intimate encounter with nature. Leopard sightings here are rare but possible, especially during the early morning and late evening when these big cats are more likely to be active.

Best Time to See Leopards in Uganda

Leopards are primarily nocturnal, so the best time to see them is early morning or late evening, especially if you’re on a night safari. During the day, leopards tend to rest in the shade or in tree branches, making them harder to spot. You may also be able to see them during dawn or dusk, when they are most likely to be hunting.

What Factors Influence Sightings of Lions and Leopards?

While it’s always thrilling to spot these big cats, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, and several factors can influence whether you’ll see them during your safari.

Time of Day

As mentioned earlier, both lions and leopards are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. If you’re hoping for the best chance of spotting them, make sure to schedule your game drives during these hours.

Seasonal Patterns

The dry season (from June to September) is usually the best time to visit Uganda for wildlife safaris. During this time, animals tend to gather near water sources, making it easier to spot them. The lush green landscapes of the wet season can make wildlife harder to find, but the park is quieter, offering a more peaceful experience.

Guide Expertise

A knowledgeable safari guide can make all the difference when it comes to spotting wildlife. Guides in Uganda are experienced and trained to track and find animals, including lions and leopards. Their knowledge of animal behavior, sounds, and signs of movement can significantly increase your chances of seeing these elusive creatures.

How many days do i need to see Lions, Leopards and Gorillas in Uganda?

To see lions, leopards, and gorillas in Uganda, a safari itinerary of at least 5 to 6 days is recommended. Here’s a typical breakdown:

Day 1-2: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Arrive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its lion population and tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector. Spend your time on game drives and a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, where you may also spot leopards. Enjoy the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
After your time in Queen Elizabeth, transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The drive takes around 4-6 hours, so you’ll likely arrive in the afternoon or evening. Spend the rest of the day relaxing at your lodge.

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Embark on a full-day gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi. Trek through the forest to find a gorilla family and spend an hour observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. It’s an unforgettable adventure.

Day 5: Return to Kampala/Entebbe
After gorilla trekking, you’ll travel back to Kampala or Entebbe. The drive takes approximately 8-10 hours, so it’s best to start early to ensure you arrive by evening. Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight from Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips to Entebbe to save time.

While lion sightings in Uganda, particularly in Queen Elizabeth National Park, are relatively common, leopard sightings tend to be more elusive. However, with the right preparation and guidance, your chances of spotting both big cats are high. Whether you’re in the savannas of Queen Elizabeth, the remote landscapes of Kidepo, or the woodlands of Murchison Falls, Uganda offers incredible opportunities to witness these majestic animals in the wild.

📩 Send us an email: info@kenlinktours.com or inquiries@kenlinktours.com to plan your unforgettable safari and increase your chances of spotting lions and leopards during your Uganda adventure.