East Africa National Parks Guide: Best Parks in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda

Each country protects distinct landscapes. Uganda has forests, rivers and primates, Kenya and Tanzania have open plains, and Rwanda has volcano forests and a recovering savannah.

Use this guide to compare parks and plan your route.

This guide is part of our Uganda districts and towns guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Leading Parks

Uganda Parks

See Uganda national parks and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Kenya and Tanzania

See Tanzania northern circuit and national parks in Africa.

Rwanda Parks

See Rwanda gorilla trekking and Kigali to Akagera.

Entry Fees and Rules

Each country has its own wildlife authority and fee structure, and fees differ for foreign non-residents, residents and citizens. Packages normally include park fees, but always check what is included. Rules cover speed limits, staying on tracks, no night driving in many parks and minimum distances from animals. Rangers and guides enforce them for everyone's safety.

Building a Route

Group parks that are close together, because road travel is slow and tiring. In Uganda, link Queen Elizabeth with Bwindi and Kibale. In Kenya, pair the Mara with Lake Nakuru or Naivasha. In Tanzania, link Tarangire, Manyara, Ngorongoro and Serengeti. In Rwanda, combine Volcanoes with Nyungwe or Akagera. See safari combinations.

Conservation and Communities

Revenue-sharing schemes channel part of park income to neighbouring communities, funding schools, clinics and water projects. Visiting community-run initiatives, such as guided walks and craft cooperatives, adds income and understanding to your trip.

Seasonal Park Highlights

The Mara and Serengeti shine during the migration, while Amboseli offers views of Kilimanjaro at its clearest in dry periods. Bwindi's trails are firmer in the dry months, though trekking is possible year-round. Akagera is greener and quieter after the rains, and Murchison Falls is good for boat trips in most months. Match parks to the time of year for the best experience.

Park Etiquette

Keep voices low, stay in the vehicle, never feed animals and keep a respectful distance. Pack out litter and avoid disturbing nests or dens. Follow your guide, who knows the animals and the park rules.

Choosing Parks

Match parks to your interests and the season, and avoid too many moves. See combinations.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team