CTC Conservation Center

The CTC Conservation Center

Nestled in the heart of Uganda’s lush countryside, about 36 kilometers from Kampala, the CTC Conservation Center is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. The conservation sanctuary is set in Lukalu within Butambala District, and it offers a rare opportunity to observe African wildlife up close while supporting critical conservation efforts. With its intimate setting, personalized tours, and ongoing breeding and rescue programs, CTC provides both educational and immersive wildlife experiences for travelers of all ages.

About the CTC Conservation Center

The CTC Conservation Center is a privately managed facility founded in 2015 with a focus on wildlife conservation, animal rescue, and education. Unlike the more commercial safari experiences in Uganda’s national parks, CTC offers a quieter, more intimate look into the lives of African wildlife. Here, visitors are invited to explore the natural habitats of a variety of animals, including lions, zebras, impalas, hyenas, bat-eared foxes, the famed lemurs of Madagascar, baby crocodiles, and African golden cats, among many others.

CTC Conservation Center has quickly become a go-to location among travelers seeking an authentic and hands-on experience with wildlife, providing guided tours that allow for close interactions with wildlife in a safe and responsible way. What makes CTC truly special is its commitment to conservation, ensuring that every visitor contributes to the ongoing efforts of preserving Uganda’s wildlife for generations to come.

Where is the CTC Conservation Center Located?

The CTC Conservation Center can be accessed via Masaka Road, about 36 kilometers from Kampala. The Center lies in Lukalu, a serene village just 15 minutes away from Mpigi Town. The road to the center is well-paved, making it an easy drive for those traveling by car, and the signs are marked for easy navigation.

What to Expect at the CTC Conservation Center

The CTC Conservation Center is home to a variety of animals that are part of critical breeding programs, educational projects, and rehabilitation efforts. Some of the species that call the center home include;

Lions: One of the highlights of the CTC Conservation Center is the African lions. These majestic creatures are housed in secure enclosures, where visitors can observe them from a safe distance. The center is also preparing to open a Lion Cottage this year, 2025, allowing guests to stay near the lion pride and enjoy an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Zebras: These beautiful, striped animals roam in the center’s expansive enclosures and are a favorite among visitors, especially for photography moments.

Impalas: Graceful and elegant, the impalas at CTC Conservation Center are often seen grazing or bounding through the grounds, providing a glimpse into the behavior of these iconic African antelope species.

Hyenas: Often misunderstood, the hyenas at CTC Conservation Center are part of ongoing research and education efforts to highlight their crucial role in the ecosystem. Travelers are often fascinated and inspired by these creatures.

African Golden Cats: This elusive species is rarely seen in the wild, making CTC a special place for those hoping to learn more about their habits and habitat.

Lemurs of Madagascar: While not native to Uganda, the lemurs of Madagascar (both white and black lemurs) at CTC are part of an educational program designed to raise awareness about biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Other fascinating wildlife at CTC Conservation Center includes tortoises, bat-eared foxes, crocodiles, and snakes.

Conservation Efforts at the CTC Conservation Center

CTC is more than just a wildlife center! It is a hub for conservation. The center plays a vital role in the rescue and rehabilitation of endangered species, and the breeding programs have helped sustain healthy populations of several animal species that are struggling to thrive in the wild.

The facility also works closely with local communities to raise awareness about human-wildlife conflict, providing educational resources and opportunities for schools and conservation groups. Through these efforts, CTC is actively contributing to the protection of Uganda’s diverse wildlife, ensuring that future generations will be able to experience these animals in their natural habitats.

Guided Tours and Educational Programs at the CTC Conservation Center

At the heart of the CTC experience is the opportunity to embark on a guided tour, led by experienced conservationists who share in-depth knowledge about the animals and the center’s work. Ranging from 1 to 4-hour tours, the tours are personalized, ensuring that visitors can learn about the species they’re most interested in and engage in meaningful conversations about wildlife conservation.

The center also offers educational programs tailored to school groups and universities, focusing on topics such as animal behavior, conservation challenges, ecosystem health, and biodiversity preservation. These programs aim to inspire a new generation of environmental stewards, giving students hands-on experiences that will stay with them long after their visit.

When is the Best Time to Visit the CTC Conservation Center?

The CTC Conservation Center is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but since tours are personalized and require appointments, it’s important to book in advance. When making a booking, be sure to make your reservation at least 24 hours ahead of your visit to guarantee availability.

How Much is a Tour at the CTC Conservation Center?

The CTC Conservation Center offers four well-curated wildlife tour options, each tailored to different interests and budgets, making it one of Uganda’s most engaging and flexible wildlife experiences. For travelers seeking a taste of the wild;

Option One: Option one provides a 2.5 to 3-hour experience at USD 100 per adult and USD 70 per child (ages 5 to 15 years), while younger children under five are charged USD 35. However, children under five are not permitted close contact with the animals. This option includes up-close interactions with lion cubs aged 3 to 6 months, plus sightings of zebras, impalas, bat-eared foxes, tortoises, chameleons, and baby crocodiles. This option is ideal for travelers looking for an immersive but balanced tour.

Option Two: For the full wildlife encounter, option two is the most inclusive, priced at USD 130 per adult and USD 95 per child, and includes encounters with lion cubs, lemurs from Madagascar, snakes, and more.

Option Three: Option three is for shorter experiences at USD 80 per adult and USD 60 per child. This option is focused solely on a one-hour lion cub interaction.

Option Four: This option features a magical hour with the lemurs – perfect for primate lovers. The option costs USD 45 per adult. Children under five are consistently charged USD 35, though close contact is restricted for safety.

Where to Stay While Visiting the CTC Conservation Center?

While the CTC Conservation Center doesn’t offer overnight accommodations (other than the soon-to-come Lion Cottage), there are several options nearby in Mpigi Town and Kampala. For those looking to stay close to the center, options include budget lodges, guesthouses, and mid-range hotels. Alternatively, you can plan your visit as a day trip from Kampala, as the center is just over an hour’s drive away.

• The CTC Lion Cottage

The CTC Lion Cottage, which will open doors to its guests this year, 2025, is one of the most exciting developments at the CTC Conservation Center. This luxurious eco-lodge will allow guests to stay in a beautifully designed cottage, with a balcony view directly over the lion enclosures. Visitors will be able to enjoy an unforgettable, up-close lion experience, all from the safety and comfort of their room. With triple fencing for safety, this exclusive overnight experience promises to be one of the most unique ways to engage with African wildlife.

Why Visit the CTC Conservation Center?

The CTC Conservation Center is one of Uganda’s best-kept secrets, offering an authentic wildlife experience that combines conservation education, personalized tours, and unique wildlife encounters. From close encounters with rare animals to the excitement of staying near a lion pride in the upcoming Lion Cottage, there is no better place to connect with Uganda’s wildlife in such a meaningful way.