A safari in Uganda is more than a holiday — it’s an adventure that will stay in your heart forever. From watching lions roam the savannah to locking eyes with a gentle mountain gorilla, Uganda offers wildlife encounters that are as raw and authentic as they come.
But planning a safari can feel overwhelming — there are permits to book, seasons to consider, and countless parks to choose from. That’s where Johnnie Uganda Safaris comes in. With years of experience guiding visitors through Uganda’s wild landscapes, we know how to turn your travel dreams into seamless, unforgettable journeys.
This step-by-step guide walks you through everything you need to plan your perfect safari — stress-free and full of excitement.
Step 1: Decide Your Safari Goals
Every traveler’s dream safari looks different, so start by asking yourself: What do I want most from this trip?
Wildlife Focus:
- Do you want to tick off the Big Five — lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos?
- Are you more interested in primates, such as gorillas and chimpanzees?
- Is birdwatching a priority, with over 1,000 species calling Uganda home?
Activities:
- Game drives across golden savannahs.
- Boat cruises on the Nile or the Kazinga Channel.
- Gorilla trekking in misty mountains.
- Cultural tours in rural villages.
Safari Duration:
A short safari might focus on just one or two parks, while longer itineraries can take you across multiple regions for a richer experience.
At Johnnie Uganda Safaris, we help match your goals with the perfect destinations and activities so no moment of your trip goes to waste.
Step 2: Choose the Right Time to Travel
Uganda’s equatorial climate means it’s possible to visit year-round, but some months are better for certain activities.
Best for Wildlife Viewing:
- June–August and December–February are dry seasons with less vegetation, making animals easier to spot.
Best for Gorilla Trekking:
- Dry seasons also offer easier hiking conditions in Bwindi and Mgahinga.
Birdwatching Highlights:
- Migratory birds arrive from November to April.
Things to Consider:
- Wet seasons (March–May, September–November) bring lush landscapes but can make some roads challenging.
- Lodges and parks are quieter during off-peak months, which can mean more intimate experiences.
We’ll recommend the best travel window for your chosen activities — so your safari runs smoothly.
Step 3: Select Your Safari Destinations
Uganda is home to ten national parks, each offering something unique. Here are the must-visits for a dream safari:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Highlight: Mountain gorilla trekking.
- Why Go: Home to nearly half of the world’s gorillas.
- Extra: Excellent birdwatching and scenic forest hikes.
Murchison Falls National Park
- Highlight: Powerful waterfall on the Nile.
- Why Go: Largest park in Uganda, full of lions, elephants, giraffes, and more.
- Extra: Boat cruises to the base of the falls.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Highlight: Tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector.
- Why Go: High wildlife diversity and scenic crater lakes.
- Extra: Kazinga Channel boat cruise.
Lake Bunyonyi
- Highlight: Tranquility and scenic beauty.
- Why Go: Perfect post-safari relaxation spot.
- Extra: Canoeing between its 29 islands.
Optional Extensions
- Kidepo Valley: Remote wilderness with stunning landscapes.
- Jinja: The source of the Nile and Uganda’s adventure capital.
Our itineraries combine these destinations into logical routes, reducing travel time and maximizing your experience.
Step 4: Arrange Permits and Bookings
Uganda is famous for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, and both require advance permits:
These permits sell out months in advance, especially during high season, so we secure them for you as soon as your dates are confirmed.
Other bookings to consider:
- Accommodation: Ranges from budget camps to luxury lodges.
- Transportation: 4×4 safari vehicles or domestic flights.
- Guides: All Johnnie Uganda Safaris tours include professional, experienced guides.
Step 5: Choose Accommodation That Fits Your Style
Uganda offers a wide range of safari accommodation:
Budget: Comfortable guesthouses and safari tents with basic amenities.
Mid-Range: Quality lodges with en-suite facilities, good dining, and beautiful views.
Luxury: Exclusive lodges with private decks, infinity pools, and personalized service.
We hand-pick lodges based on location, comfort, and service quality — ensuring you’re close to the action but always comfortable at the end of the day.
Step 6: Pack Smart for Your Safari
Your packing list will depend on the season, but here’s what every traveler should bring:
Clothing:
- Light, breathable clothes in neutral colors.
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers for evenings (to protect from mosquitoes).
- Warm jacket for cool mornings in highland areas.
Gear:
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting.
- Camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
- Daypack for water, snacks, and essentials.
Health & Safety:
- Insect repellent with DEET.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Prescription medications and basic first aid kit.
We provide a complete packing checklist to our guests before departure — so you’re fully prepared.
Step 7: Enjoy Your Adventure with Johnnie Uganda Safaris
Once you’re on the ground, it’s time to relax and immerse yourself in the magic of Uganda:
- Wake up early for sunrise game drives when predators are active.
- Listen to the calls of birds and the rustle of elephants in the grass.
- Feel the mist on your face as you hike through Bwindi to meet gorillas.
- Watch the sun dip over Lake Bunyonyi, painting the hills in gold.
With Johnnie Uganda Safaris, every detail — from meals to transfers — is handled so you can focus on the adventure.
Conclusion
Planning your dream safari doesn’t have to be complicated. By defining your goals, choosing the right time, selecting the best destinations, and preparing properly, you set the stage for an unforgettable journey.
At Johnnie Uganda Safaris, we specialize in crafting personalized safari experiences that showcase the best of East Africa. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, we’ll make sure it’s your most memorable yet.
