Uganda has received uplifting news as the United Kingdom, through its Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), officially cleared travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Semuliki National Park on the 2 day of December 2025.
This update restores full confidence in Uganda’s western tourism circuit and creates new momentum for travellers, local communities, and tour operators planning safaris to Uganda.
With two of the country’s most treasured parks now recognized as safe, it is an ideal moment for international visitors to rediscover Uganda’s wildlife, landscapes, and rich cultural heritage on Safaris to Uganda Africa.
The earlier FCDO advisory was linked to isolated regional security incidents and precautionary measures in western Uganda after the ADF rebels (alleged) killed two tourists and a Ugandan guide while they were on a Ugandan Safari.
In response, Uganda strengthened:
The improved conditions led the UK to completely lift restrictions, restoring confidence for visitors.
When the FCDO lifts a travel warning, it sends a strong message to international travellers. The removal indicates:
This decision is a major endorsement for Uganda’s resilience and commitment to safe tourism in Africa.
For Tourists
For Tour Operators
For Local Communities
Queen Elizabeth National Park, established in 1952, is a spectacular wildlife haven in southwestern Uganda, nestled between Lake George and Lake Edward, stretching about 1,978 km² across savannah plains, forests, wetlands, and volcanic landscapes. It is one of the top highlights for Uganda safari tours and is especially known for its tree-climbing lions, hippo-filled rivers, and scenic crater lakes.
The park forms part of the Albertine Rift Valley and has long been recognized as one of Africa’s most diverse ecosystems.
The park boasts:
Its rich wildlife and stunning landscapes make it a must-visit destination for travelers on Uganda tours.
Kasenyi plains provide exceptional opportunities to spot lions, antelope herds, elephants, and leopards.
The famous Kazinga Channel hosts one of Africa’s highest concentrations of hippos, alongside buffaloes, elephants, crocodiles, and numerous birds.
The Ishasha sector is among the few places in the world where lions regularly climb fig trees.
Explore a sunken tropical rainforest home to a community of chimpanzees and rich biodiversity.
Photogenic crater lakes, rolling hills, and viewpoints offer some of Uganda’s best natural scenery.
Visitors can stay at:
Visiting this safari park for safari adventures will offer you the most memorable safari experiences!
For the ultimate safari experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park, plan your trip between June and August or December and February. These dry months deliver the clearest animal sightings and easiest trekking, with wildlife concentrated around rivers and lakes.
However, it’s worth noting that the park can be visited all year round, even in the wet months, especially if you want fewer crowds and avifauna sightings.
Semuliki National Park, found in Bundibugyo District and spanning ~220 km², provides a deep rainforest experience influenced by the Congo Basin. Known for its hot springs, primates, Congo-style lowland rainforest, and rare birds, the park appeals to travellers who enjoy nature, culture, and wildlife away from crowded safari circuits.
Semuliki is one of Africa’s most ancient and biologically rich forests.
Travelers to Semuliki NP can expect to find attractions like:
The “male” and “female” hot springs are iconic attractions. Visitors often boil eggs in the bubbling waters as part of the experience.
The forest is home to 11 primate species, making it ideal for primate tracking enthusiasts.
The park hosts many Central African species rarely found elsewhere in East Africa.
Meet the Batwa communities who share traditions, dances, and stories shaped by forest life.
Options include:
For the most rewarding experience in Semuliki National Park, visit between June and August or December and February. These dry months offer the easiest hiking conditions through dense rainforest, unobstructed paths to the famous hot springs, and enhanced opportunities to spot primates and birds near water sources.
But if interested in lower costs and fewer crowds, the wet season is also okay to explore the game park.
Many Ugandan operators now offer combined trips to both parks, including:
Travelers can choose from:
These trips may also include Uganda gorilla trekking, gorilla trekking in Uganda, and Uganda gorilla tours.
Travellers can extend their journey to:
These combinations create unforgettable safaris in Uganda Africa.
Conclusion
The UK’s decision to clear travel to Queen Elizabeth and Semuliki National Parks marks a positive step for Uganda’s tourism sector.
With vibrant wildlife, beautiful landscapes, cultural richness, and enhanced safety, both parks are ready to welcome visitors seeking meaningful Uganda safari tours and memorable experiences.
This is the perfect time to explore Uganda’s wild beauty and support communities that protect these remarkable environments.
Call us now and let’s help you plan your dream safari to Uganda, Africa!
Cate
Samuel
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