Hippo Species Profile: River Giants and Where to See Hippos in East Africa

Hippos are the signature animal of Uganda's waterways, and boat trips on the Kazinga Channel or the Nile are often the best places to watch them closely. Their grunts and bellows are a regular soundtrack at lodges near water.

This profile covers appearance, behaviour and the best places for viewing.

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

Identification

A hippo has a barrel-shaped body, short legs and a huge mouth with large tusk-like canines. Its eyes, ears and nostrils sit high on the head, letting it breathe and see while mostly submerged. The skin is thick and hairless and depends on moisture to avoid cracking. Calves are born in water or on the shore and may ride on the mother's back.

Life in the Water

Hippos live in groups called pods, usually led by a dominant bull who defends a stretch of river or lake. They rest in water by day to stay cool and protect their skin from the sun. Contrary to a common idea, they do not truly swim; they walk or push along the bottom. They can hold their breath for several minutes.

Night Grazing

After dusk hippos leave the water and travel along regular paths to graze on short grass, sometimes several kilometres away. They eat large quantities of grass, though relative to their size they need less food than might be expected. Their dung fertilises rivers and supports fish and other aquatic life.

Danger and Safety

Hippos are territorial and aggressive when disturbed, particularly if you are between one and the water. Never walk near water at dusk or night unless escorted, and keep boat trips with experienced captains. Read the hippo census in Queen Elizabeth for a look at population monitoring.

Where to See Hippos

In Uganda, take a launch on the Kazinga Channel, a boat on the Nile at Murchison Falls or visit Lake Mburo. Kenya's Mara River pools and Tanzania's Serengeti rivers also hold big pods. Combine with the Nile delta boat trip.

Threats and Conservation

Hippos are vulnerable because of habitat loss, drought and poaching for meat and teeth. Reduced river flow and pollution affect pods. Monitoring and community cooperation help keep populations steady in protected areas.

Photography and Related Species

Photograph from a boat in low light, and aim for eye-level shots as hippos yawn or surface. See safari photography tips. Others you will meet on boats include the Nile crocodile and the buffalo.

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