Night Safaris in Uganda: What Animals Come Out After Dark?

Date: July 21, 2025

When the sun sets over Uganda's beautiful landscapes, a new kind of adventure begins. Night safaris are becoming one of the most exciting ways to experience wildlife in this vibrant East African country. While most animals rest after dark, many come to life under the moonlight, creating a whole new world for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.

Whether you're at Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, or Lake Mburo, night safaris offer the chance to witness rare animal behaviour, hear the sounds of the wild, and enjoy a truly unforgettable experience.

Why Choose a Night Safari?

Night safaris in Uganda are unique. Unlike daytime game drives where animals might hide from the sun, night-time reveals those creatures that are most active in the dark. It’s a different pace, a different silence, and a completely different set of wildlife.

Night drives are done in 4x4 vehicles with spotlights that help guides spot animals without disturbing them. The cool air, the starry skies, and the mystery of the night all come together to make this an incredible experience.

Where Can You Go for a Night Safari?

Not all national parks in Uganda allow night safaris, but a few top destinations are known for offering excellent nocturnal experiences:

• Queen Elizabeth National Park
  Explore the Kasese sector, known for leopards, genets, and hyenas. The chances of spotting predators here are quite high.
• Lake Mburo National Park
  Closer to Kampala, it’s ideal for spotting nocturnal animals like bush babies, porcupines, and nightjars.
• Murchison Falls National Park
  While more popular for daytime drives, some lodges offer guided night drives revealing a different side of the park.

What Animals Can You See at Night?

Many animals are active at night, and night safaris let you spot species rarely seen during the day:

• Leopards – Elusive and quiet hunters, often seen on night drives.
• Hyenas – Loud, curious, and very active after dark.
• Bush Babies – Tiny primates leaping between trees.
• Porcupines – Shy creatures that forage in the evening.
• Aardvarks – Rare diggers looking for termites at night.
• Civets and Genets – Small carnivores with spotted coats.
• Owls and Nightjars – Mysterious birds that add to the soundtrack of the night.

Even common animals like hippos, elephants, and buffalos behave differently at night — grazing, rustling through bushes, and more.

The Sounds of the African Night

Night safaris are just as much about sound as sight:

• The distant roar of a lion
• Crickets and frogs creating a night-time symphony
• The haunting call of a hyena
• Owls hooting softly in the trees

These sounds can be soothing, thrilling, and unforgettable.

How to Prepare for a Night Safari

Tips to enhance your night safari experience:

• Dress warmly: Bring a jacket or sweater as nights can get cold.
• Stay quiet: Silence increases your chances of sightings.
• Carry a small flashlight: Use it only for personal items, not animals.
• Listen to your guide: They ensure safety and share valuable knowledge.

Who Can Go on a Night Safari?

Night safaris are safe and suitable for most travellers, especially families with children over 8 years old. They’re also perfect for photographers and wildlife lovers seeking a unique experience.

Are Night Safaris Safe?

Yes. When done with licensed guides and official vehicles, they are very safe. You stay inside the vehicle at all times, and guides are trained for wildlife encounters. Just follow their instructions.

Lodges That Offer Night Safaris

Some lodges that organize guided night drives include:

• Mweya Safari Lodge – Queen Elizabeth NP
• Rwakobo Rock Lodge – Lake Mburo NP
• Pakuba Safari Lodge – Murchison Falls NP

Be sure to check with your lodge in advance, as some night safaris require special permissions.

A Night to Remember
A night safari in Uganda is more than just a wildlife tour — it’s an unforgettable journey into a hidden world. It deepens your connection to nature and fills your heart with wonder. When planning your Ugandan adventure, save one night for the wild. What you see — or hear — in the dark might just become your favourite memory.