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Uganda Wildlife Education Centre
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The Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), originally founded in 1952 as an animal orphanage, is located in Entebbe on the shores of Lake Victoria. Often referred to as the Entebbe Zoo, it has evolved into a major conservation and public education facility. The centre is home to a wide variety of wildlife rescued from across Uganda, including lions, leopards, giraffes, chimpanzees, and the iconic shoebill stork. Many of the animals are victims of poaching, habitat loss, or illegal trade and cannot be released back into the wild. UWEC provides them with spacious, semi-natural enclosures. The centre's primary mission is to raise conservation awareness by allowing visitors to experience Uganda's wildlife up close and learn about their ecosystems and the threats they face. It also runs breeding programs for endangered species and engages in rehabilitation and release initiatives where possible.
- Location: Uganda
- Top sights: Royal Palace of the King of Buganda · Destroyed Cars · Buganda Kingdom museum
- Nearby: Nakawa (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 24 | 24 | 22 | 22 | 21 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 65 | 66 | 148 | 194 | 158 | 63 | 57 | 88 | 117 | 158 | 166 | 116 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Uganda Wildlife Education Centre is a zoo in Entebbe dedicated to education and conservation. It is open to the public; children and adults can observe animals in naturalistic enclosures.
Typical hours
The centre is typically open daily from about 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Animal feeding times are often fixed and can be asked upon arrival. Hours may vary on public holidays.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the grounds, but without flash near animals to avoid startling them. For children there are often interactive stations that make great photo subjects.
Time needed
A visit usually lasts 2 to 3 hours, depending on children's ages and interest in animals. Allow plenty of time for picnic areas and the playground.
Combine with
Combine the trip with a visit to the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, just a few kilometers away. Entebbe International Airport is also close by if you want a layover activity.
Getting there
The centre is located on Entebbe Road, about 35 kilometers south of Kampala. The best way to reach it is by taxi or private vehicle. There is a large parking lot for visitors.
Insider tip
Arrive early in the morning when the animals are most active. Bring sunscreen and insect repellent as the grounds are partly open. There is a nice shaded playground for children.
Geography
Facts
- Originally founded in 1952 as an animal orphanage.
- The centre covers an area of approximately 72 hectares.
- It is located directly on the shores of Lake Victoria.
- It is home to the rare and vulnerable shoebill stork.
- UWEC is the only facility in Uganda to hold exotic species like tigers.
- It is a full member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (10)
Katwe market
Market in the Katwe neighborhood of Kampala.
Royal Theatre
Theatre in Kampala, Uganda.
Church House Building
Building in Kampala, Uganda.
C.N KIKONYOGO MONEY MUSEUM🏛 museum
Numismatic museum in Uganda.
Rubaga Cathedral
Catholic cathedral in Uganda.
Workers House
High-rise building in Kampala, gives views of the city.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How much time should I plan?
Half a day to a full day is well-suited for the entire tour.
Is it family-friendly?
Absolutely, the center is specifically designed for families and children.
What are the opening hours?
Usually open daily from 08:00 to 18:00.
Is the park wheelchair accessible?
The paths are largely flat and accessible for wheelchair users.
Are there dining options?
Yes, there is a café/restaurant directly on the premises.
Uganda Wildlife Education Centre: where is it located?
Uganda Wildlife Education Centre is located in Uganda.
Uganda Wildlife Education Centre: what is there to see?
Highlights include Royal Palace of the King of Buganda, Destroyed Cars, Buganda Kingdom museum.
Uganda Wildlife Education Centre: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Uganda Wildlife Education Centre: why is it worth visiting?
The Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), originally founded in 1952 as an animal orphanage, is located in Entebbe on the shores of Lake Victoria.
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