Where to see Leopards in Uganda. The leopard is one of the most prized sightings on an African safari, second only to the lion in popularity among big cats. As a member of the famous “Big Five” – alongside the lion, rhino, buffalo, and elephant – the leopard is a must-see for any wildlife enthusiast. However, it is arguably the most elusive of the group, making it a special and lucky sighting.

Unlike lions and hyenas, which live in prides and clans, the leopard is a solitary and highly secretive animal. Its stealthy nature and ability to blend seamlessly into its surroundings make it difficult to spot, even in destinations where all members of the Big Five are present. Leopards are often seen resting in trees, where they stay safe from competing predators and keep their kills hidden from scavengers. Their remarkable climbing skills allow them to haul prey into the branches, away from lions and hyenas. For these reasons, encountering a leopard in the wild is an unforgettable experience, making it one of the most sought-after sightings on any African safari with Kenlink Tours.

Are there Chances of seeing Leopards in Uganda?

Yes, leopards are found in Uganda and are considered the most widespread of the big cats in the country. They thrive not only within protected wildlife reserves but also in forests and jungles near human settlements. Their elusive nature allows them to remain undetected in unexpected places, sometimes even near towns and cities. Occasionally, reports emerge of leopards preying on livestock in local communities, highlighting their adaptability and ability to coexist in human-dominated landscapes.

However, while leopards may be widely distributed across Uganda, spotting one in the wild remains a challenge. Their solitary and stealthy behavior makes them one of the most difficult animals to find on a safari. Unlike lions, which move in prides and are more easily seen, leopards prefer to stay hidden, often blending seamlessly into their surroundings.

If a leopard sighting is high on your safari wishlist, certain national parks in Uganda offer better chances of encountering these elusive cats. While no sighting is ever guaranteed—because a leopard is, after all, a master of disguise—some of the best places to try your luck include Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, and Lake Mburo National Park. These parks provide the right habitat and prey availability, increasing the possibility of an unforgettable leopard encounter in the wild.

Top Places to See Leopards in Uganda

Leopards are among the most elusive and sought-after big cats in Africa, and Uganda offers several prime locations where you can increase your chances of spotting them. Their stealth, nocturnal nature, and solitary lifestyle make them a rare but rewarding sighting on a safari. While leopards can be found in many of Uganda’s national parks, some destinations provide a higher likelihood of encountering these magnificent predators.

1. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the best places to see leopards in Uganda. The park’s diverse ecosystems, including savannah, wetlands, and forests, provide an ideal habitat for these secretive cats. The Kasenyi Plains and the Ishasha sector are particularly well-known for leopard sightings. Ishasha is famous for tree-climbing lions, but leopards are often spotted resting on large tree branches as well. Early morning and late evening game drives offer the best chances of seeing them.

2. Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, is another hotspot for leopards. The vast savannahs and dense woodlands create a perfect environment for these predators. The leopards here are often seen during early morning or evening game drives, especially around the delta area where prey is abundant. The park’s relatively open landscapes make it easier to spot leopards as they move through the terrain or rest on tree branches.

3. Kidepo Valley National Park

For travelers looking for a more remote and wild experience, Kidepo Valley National Park is a fantastic destination. Located in northeastern Uganda, this rugged park is home to a healthy leopard population. The combination of rocky outcrops, acacia woodlands, and vast plains provides an excellent hunting ground for these cats. Since Kidepo is less visited compared to other parks, the chances of an exclusive leopard sighting without large crowds are higher.

4. Lake Mburo National Park

Although Lake Mburo National Park is the smallest savannah park in Uganda, it is an excellent location for spotting leopards. Due to the park’s relatively small size and lower predator density, leopards here tend to be more visible. Night game drives in Lake Mburo significantly increase your chances of spotting a leopard, as they are more active after dark.

What are the chances of seeing Leopards on Uganda Safari?

Leopards are present in many of Uganda’s national parks, but due to their elusive and solitary nature, sightings are never guaranteed. They are nocturnal, highly secretive, and prefer dense vegetation or tree cover, making them more challenging to spot compared to lions or elephants. However, with the right approach and in specific locations, your chances of encountering a leopard significantly improve.

The best parks for leopard sightings in Uganda include Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, and Lake Mburo National Park. Queen Elizabeth, particularly the Ishasha sector, is known for leopards resting in trees, while Murchison Falls has good sightings near the delta area. Kidepo, due to its remote wilderness, offers a high probability of spotting leopards in rocky outcrops and open savannahs.

Game drives during early mornings, late evenings, or night safaris increase the likelihood of a sighting, as leopards are most active during these times. While there is never a 100% guarantee of seeing a leopard on safari, traveling with an experienced guide, being patient, and visiting prime locations significantly enhance your chances of spotting this elusive predator in the wild.

What is the best time to spot Leopard on a game drive?

Leopards are nocturnal and elusive, making them one of the most challenging big cats to spot on safari. The best time to see them on a game drive is early in the morning (just before sunrise) or late in the evening (around sunset) when they are most active. During these hours, leopards emerge from their daytime hiding spots to hunt or patrol their territory.

Night game drives also offer a higher chance of spotting leopards, as they hunt under the cover of darkness. Their eyes reflect brightly under a spotlight, making them easier to spot in the wilderness.

During the day, leopards tend to rest in thick vegetation or up in trees to avoid the heat and other predators. If you’re searching for one in the afternoon, look for tree branches with hanging tails or fresh kill, as leopards often drag their prey into trees for safekeeping. Having a knowledgeable guide increases your chances of an unforgettable leopard sighting.