At Lake Mburo National Park, we had the chance to enjoy a night safari, which turned into one of the most memorable experiences of our Uganda trip.
An Unexpected Leopard Encounter
During the safari, we were incredibly fortunate to observe a leopard — completely unexpected and deeply satisfying.
A year earlier, we had traveled to southern Sri Lanka specifically to see leopards. On that trip, however, we only managed to see one resting and barely moving. This time in Uganda was different. The leopard was partially hidden in dense vegetation, alert and aware of its surroundings, which made the encounter far more exciting and rewarding.
Timing and a Bit of Luck
Night safaris at Lake Mburo usually begin around 6:00 p.m., with visitors heading out in open jeeps as dusk settles in. Unfortunately, we arrived about an hour late, and at that point we assumed our chances were slim.
Against expectations, we ended up being the only group to see a leopard that evening. Sometimes, wildlife encounters truly come down to timing — and a bit of luck.
A Perfect Way to End the Year
This night safari took place on New Year’s Eve, making the experience even more special. Spending the final evening of 2025 with such a rare and thrilling wildlife encounter was an unforgettable way to close out the year.
It was one of those moments that stays with you long after the journey ends.