Ultimate Gorilla Tracking Safaris in Uganda and Rwanda

11 day uganda and rwanda safari

Ultimate Gorilla Tracking Safaris in Uganda and Rwanda

Looking for that ultimate gorilla tracking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda here are some of the things you can do to have an amzing experience on your visit to see the beautiful endangered creatures that call the Virunga mountains their home.

Gorilla tracking is undoubtedly one of the most done wildlife activity in Africa however, they have a restricted area where one could trek on foot to see them in their natural habitat. Africa is so huge with it’s thick green rain forest that inhabits these beautiful creatures and the area is called the Virunga Massif.

ultimate gorilla tracking safaris in uganda and rwanda
#gorillatrackingsafari

Where do mountain gorillas live? Ultimate gorilla tracking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda

On earth gorilla tracking can only be done in only three countries of Uganda, Rwanda and Congo in East Africa. Mountain gorillas being a high altitude residents, it is without doubt why they chose to leave in the Virunga mountains. If anyone would want to experience this life changing adventure, they will have to visit one of those three countries mentioned above.

Ultimate gorilla tracking safaris in Rwanda

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is one of the most visited for a gorilla tracking trip in East Africa, seeing gorillas from here is almost guaranteed though it’s not as you would expect it to be easy somehow. Visitors here have to first immerse themselves into the thick green covers of alpine vegetations to meet the gentle giants in their natural habitats. A permit to see gorillas in Rwanda is a bit expensive compared to Uganda and Congo but it’s worth it. It goes for US$1500 Per permit, per person and it lasts for a single trek.

Ultimate gorilla tracking safaris in Uganda

The highlight for every traveler visiting Uganda is to see gorillas in their natural habitat. The country is so gifted with two different destinations where you can see these great apes unlike Rwanda or Congo.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to almost half the number of the remaining mountain gorilla population on Earth and that only gives you a hint that to see gorillas from here is almost a guarantee.

A permit to see them here goes for US$700 Per permit per person and it lasts for a trek. Incase of tracking to see them again, one has to pay the extra amount of US$700.

In Uganda gorillas can also be seen in Mgahinga gorilla National Park however from here it’s not always a guarantee to see them because the park only has one habituated gorilla family.

For gorilla tracking packages, checkout our pages.

Where to sleep in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Where to sleep in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Where to sleep in Queen Elizabeth National Park | Accommodations in Kasese

You have to find where to sleep in Queen Elizabeth National Park before you plan your visit and getting accommodation there could be a hard task if you haven’t been here before.

The Park is located south-west of Kampala Uganda’s capital city. It takes about 6-7 hours of driving from Entebbe International airport to Queen Elizabteh National Park.

We have arranged some of the most iconic safari lodges in this park depending on different budget travels and those are Mid-range, Luxury and budget accommodations. Below are some of those;

Budget Accommodation in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Traveling on budget is almost the most sought after option for clients who wants to explore on low costs and one can’t enjoy the trip before finding where to sleep in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Kazinga Wilderness Camp

Located just outside the park,just about 10 minutes of driving to the Kasenyi Park headquaters. Kazinga Wilderness Camp is one of the best options for travelers who want to feel the wilderness at night. Lions often come here and calls of nature is loudly heard during evenings.

The place is so clean with a bush setting just to make you feel the African wildlands. From here to the starting point of boat trips at Katunguru is just a walkable distance.

Pumba Safari Lodge

Located about 20 minutes of driving from Katunguru, Pumba Safari Lodge is another budget option to look for when in Queen Elizabeth National park.  With clean cottages overlooking the Kyambura wildlands of this park, it gives a unique environment to travelers who wants to sleep on a budget. Elephants often graze from here during day and at night you will be able to feel the wild calls of nature.

Elephant Hub Lodge

Just next to Pumba Safari Lodge is Elephant Hub. However this one has a swimming pool which could be an added advantage for travelers who have swimming as their hobby. Feel free to check it out when your visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Mid-range Accommodations in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen is dotted with some beautiful mid-range accommodation for one to choose from and below are some of them;

Lake Munyanyange Caves Lodge

Imagine a beauty just on the verge eof the wilderness, Lake Munyanyange caves lodge ticks every box for those who wants a quite and a unique environment in the park. Spacious and clean cottages are the highlight of the night here and with an added advantage of the lake’s view, you need to sleep here on mid-range.

Enganzi Lodge

Overlooking the plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Enganzi lodge is one of the most sought after safari lodges here in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Blending perfectly with nature and with swimming pool to wash you when you return from those game viewing rushes, you really need to stay here.

Twin Lakes Safari Lodge

Could be one of the most visited lodges in Queen Elizabeth National Park. For those who loves to watch sunsets without moving on a search, here is the best choice for you. Overlooking the famous crater explosions.

Kikorongo Safari Lodge

You just can’t miss Kikorongo on the list of mid-range lodges in the medley of wonders. Located just about 20 minutes of driving to the Kasenyi plains. Kikorongo safari lodge ticks every box of a mid-range lodge, with views overlooking Lake Kikorongo and the plains of Kasenyi, all you have to do is to book with them a cottage.

Luxury Accommodations in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Plenty are here to choose from when it comes to luxury accommodations in Queen Elizabeth National Park and below are some to choose from;

Elephant Plains Lodge

Undoubtedly one of the best safari lodges in Uganda not only in this park. Elephant plains with it’s luxury and spacious cottages with aswimming pool to cool you off when you return from game drives is all that you need when in Queen Elizabeth National Park

They also do boat trips, so you can even book with them a boat trip from there. From there to Kasenyi it takes just 20 minutes of driving.

Mweya Safari Lodge

One of the oldest safari lodges in Queen Elizabeth, but hey it keeps up with the trend. Spacious cottages, luxury setting with a swimming pool overlooking the famous Kazinga channel, Mweya Safari Lodge is one to look for when you need luxury. For families, this is one of the best options of Queen Elizabeth on a luxury travel.

Buffalo Safari Lodge

Newly established, Buffalo Safari Lodge is one of those to look for when you want luxury. Quite a unique setting than the rest, with spacious rooms and ofcourse a serene swimming pool overlooking the endless plains.

From Buffalo to Kasenyi it takes just about 15 minutes or less.

Accommodation in Murchison Falls National Park

accommodation in murchison falls

Where to sleep in Murchison Falls | Accommodation in Murchison Falls National Park

There are plenty of accommodation in Murchison Falls National Park ranging from budget,mid-range and luxury for one to choose from! The Park being Uganda’s largest protected area, it is by no surprise that almost everyone who visists the country doesn’t miss a visit to this hidden gem.

How to get to Murchison Falls from Kampala or Entebbe?

The park is located north-west of Kampala and getting there from Kampala which is Uganda’s capital city is just a 6-7 hours of driving using the Kampala-Gulu high-way just if you stop for Rhino trekking at ziwa. And it takes almost the same from Entebbe airport but there’s a quick alternative. You can board a chatter flight from Kajjansi airstrip to Pakuba airstrip which is in the middle of the park and it takes just 30 minutes.

Budget Accommodation in Murchison Falls National Park

For budget travelers who loves cheap but comfortable lodgings in the Murchison Falls, we have selected some of the facsinating ones to choose from and below are some of the;

RED CHILLI REST CAMP– Arguably the most famous budget accommodation in the Murchison Falls and it’s located just inside the park. It’s closeness to the game-drive area and the paraa boat trips starting point, it gets the job done for budget travelers.

YEBO SAFARI CAMP– The is also another good option for travelers seeking budget accommdation in Murchison Falls. Located just outside the Mubako Gate  few minutes from the park. Tourists always enjoy every part of it most especially those who love tasting on Uganda local foods.

HORNBILL SAFARI LODGE– This newly established safari lodge is one that is going to be a highlight for most people traveling on a budget. Located on the north of this park just ourtside the Tangi gate of Murchison Falls about 10 minutes of driving on the right following the Arua-Karuma Road.

IKOROM SAFARI LODGE– The northern side of the Murchison Falls National Park has seen new well established budget lodges lately. The beautiful Ikorom Safari Lodge is one that has caught eyes of several travelers. With well built cottages that has a view of the wilderness, this lodge owns a swimming pool for enjoyments from your game viewing activities.

Mid-range Accommodations in Murchison Falls

Just like budget lodges, the Murchison Falls National Park has also seen new establishments of mid-range accommodations which gives tourists plenty of freedom to choose from during teir visit. We have listed some below for our readers to choose from;

PAKUBA SAFARI LODGE-Undoubtedly the most visited mid-range lodge in Murchison Falls. Pakuba Safari Lodge is located north of the park just in the middle of the game-drives area. Wild games like lions are often seen roaming freely from here that’s one of the reason why it is very famous.

MURCHISON RIVER LODGE-Just like Pakuba Safari Lodge, the famous Murchison River Lodge is one of  the mid-range facilities you should not miss on your trip to this park. It is located just 5 minutes of driving outside the Mubako Gate and with a swimming pool that adds to it’s well thacthed cottages, it gets the deal done for many.

BAMBOO SAFARI LODGE-This uniquely built bamboo lodge is a hidden mid-range gem in Murchison Falls National Park. It is located outside the Mubako gate about 5 minutes of driving. Clients usually enjoy a cultural music show from the locals at night during camp-fires.

Luxury Lodges in Murchison Falls

Just like you could have thought about if we have Luxury accommodations in this park, yes we have and everyone who loves sleeping in a luxury setting should check them out;

NILE SAFARI LODGE-No debate that the famous Nile Safari Lodge is the best luxury accommodation in the Murchison Falls. It’s closeness to the mighty River Nile is somewhat what makes it unique. Every cottage here has a view of the Nile and hippos are always seen here at night when they graze.

CHOBE SAFARI LODGE-This luxury lodge is only for those who loves a relaxed stay with no rush for game drives. It is located far from the game-drives area about 75km of driving from Karuma.

Fortunately it has a sister lodge in the same area which is located just in the middle of the park so alternatively, you can drive for game-drives and you have lunch at Paraa Safari Lodge.

PARAA SAFARI LODGE-The famous paraa safari lodge is one of the best luxury lodges in Murchison Falls and it’s uniqueness combines both the River Nile and the distance from the lodge to the starting point of boat trips and game-drives.

Best places to visit in 2023

best places to visit in 2023

Best Places to Visit in 2023|Uganda

Thinking of where to travel to in 2023 could be a hard puzzle to solve but here are some of the best places to visit in 2023 on a Uganda safari. East Africa is well known in terms of safaris and for most travelers visiting here would like to know which kind of a safari woud they wnt to immerse themselves into.

Uganda inparticular has immerged as one of those finest safari destinations anyone would love to lookout to and with welcoming locals as well, that adds value to every tourist visiting this country.

CNN Travel have listed Uganda as one of the places to visist in 2023 inthe world and you just can’t underestimate that statement because, for primates lovers, Uganda has no other match to be compared to. The country is home to half of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas and it actually has two dofferent destinations or parks where you can meet these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

With almost 53 different tribal groups living in this small hidden paradise, it is positive for those seeking for a cultural exploration. The biggest is Kampala and of course it’s the country’s capital which will make it a highlight for you if you decide to visit.

As almost the highlight for every traveler visiting Uganda is “gorilla trek” it is a good idea to know how expensive or cheap to see them in the tropics. A gorilla trekking permit goes for US$700 per person and it is actually cheaper compared to the neighbours in Rwanda.

Best Places to Visit in 2023 |What to Expect on a Uganda Safari?

Depending on what your interests of travel are in to, there’s alot to choose from on a Uganda safari trip.  Gorillas are the highlight here but you can opt to go for other tourist activities. For example you can a safari to Murchison Falls National located north-west from Kampala and the least you can do it are 2 days. Most travelers combine this safari with a stop to see the endangered ssouthern white rhinos at Ziwa Rhino sanctuary.

Another option for primate lovers is to see the gentle chimpanzees in the tropical rain forest of Kibale. Kibale National Park is famously known as the world’s primate capital because of it’s high potential in protecting primates.

The park is home to 13 different primate species and the most popular are the Chimps. Trekking to see them in their natural habitat here will see you paying US$200 per person, but they’re still other cheaper alternatives even though chances of seeing them are not as high as those in Kibale National Park.

Kalinzu forest, Budongo forest, Kyambura gorge are some of the other options of seeing the chimpanzees in Uganda and here it goes for a slightly US$150 per person.

Safari parks are one of the most visited and the Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park are the ones you can visit for a wildlife safari. All of those safari parks can be visited in just 3 days however you can combine them with a primate trip for those with longer days.

Uganda|Rwanda Safaris

Kigali city

Combining Uganda|Rwanda Safaris 2023-2024

The Uganda|Rwanda safaris are one East Africa’s most done combined safari packages. Taking the fact that these two destinations favors travelers who basically want to do primate tracking related tours.

Even though Uganda and Rwanda are most known for its diversity when it comes to primates, they actually also offer some of the best bits for a wildlife safari.

Uganda|Rwanda safaris

RWANDA IN PARTICULAR

Rwanda is most referred to as the “Land of a thousand hills” because of its unique terraced hills landscapes all over the region. The scenery itself gives tourists who visit this beautiful small country something not to forget while in East Africa. The highlight for almost everyone visiting Rwanda, is to trek deep into the thick bamboo forests to seethe world’s remaining population of Mountain Gorillas in the famous Volcanoes National Park located just along the Virunga mountain ranges.

Unlike Uganda where one can track gorillas in two different destinations, that is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga gorilla National parks, in Rwanda it’s a different case where by all tourists interested in gorilla trekking must by any means slope down into the Volcanoes National Park.

What else to see in Rwanda besides gorilla tracking?

As said earlier that gorilla tracking is the highlight in Rwanda, there are actually a lot of other unique activities to do or see when in to this beautiful country and some of them are as follows.

Lake Kivu– For tourists who would want to change the scene of their eyes, there’s none other than a visit to Lake Kivu. The shores of this awesome and great to see lake, conceal some of the best beaches known on the African continent.

Nyungwe Forest National Park– Known to be among the oldest rain-forests that call the African continent home, this thick montane tracked rain forest is one of Rwanda’s most famous tourist attractions.  Together with Uganda’s Kibale National Park, Nyungwe forest National Park is also home to 13 primate species and to visit Rwanda without a step into this home of primates is indeed a regret for many travelers.

Akagera National Park– Located just in the middle of the Akagera River, this miracle renowned park is the only destination where one can do a wildlife viewing safari in Rwanda. Once considered one of Africa’s most sought after wildlife reserves because it used to protect almost 10% of Rwanda. Truthfully most client’s who visit Akagera expecting huge concentration of wildlife like those in Kenya or Tanzania got disappointed, but in case you want to feed your eyes and immerse yourself with a quite and a unique environmental setting, then a visit to Akagera National Park is something recommended.

Kigali City– Who visit Rwanda and doesn’t take on a Kigali city tour?, with a span of several ridges and enchanting valleys, rolling hillsides, green sceneries, flowering trees, plus thrills of winding boulevards, Kigali is without doubt one of Africa’s most attractive capital cities. For many it’s said to be the most cleanest and safe in the whole of the region.

THE UGANDA YOU DON’T KNOW

The country located East of the African continent, is calling for tourists and travelers across earth to come and witness its virgin beauty and thrilling landscapes that call this country home. Imagine a country where food grows with less effort, with free flowing rivers across the region plus a unique setting of the true Africa’s life style, where almost everyone has been known for quite some time! Welcome to the “Pearl of Africa” as sir Winston Churchill called it on his last visit to Africa.

The country is home to almost everything you would think of when planning a safari to Africa. Just like Rwanda, gorilla tracking is also the highlight for many tourists visiting Uganda but of course there’s a lot to think about besides trekking the the thick forests to see gorillas.

For adventure lovers, Uganda is a perfect destination to immerse yourself into, Rafting on the Nile River is the adventure headliner even though several adventure activities are in place to choose from.

Most tourists combine different tourism destinations while on a Uganda safari just to encounter different sights on their exploration. For starters, one can do a short 3 days Uganda safari to any of he’s/her favorite destination. And a long Uganda safari can at least last for 10 days or even more depending on customization.

How to combine a Uganda|Rwanda Safaris?

Uganda|Rwanda safaris combination are famously chosen from those travelers who wants to see gorillas in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. Taking the fact that, there’s actually less wildlife viewing opportunities in Rwanda, most tourists opt to do wildlife safaris in Uganda and track gorillas in Rwanda.

A combined Uganda and Rwanda safari can last from 6-10 days or even longer depending on customization. But of course there are travelers who at times want to arrive in Kigali and track gorillas in Uganda which is also an option and actually cheaper alternative.

EBS Tours & Safaris always customize tour packages in all those destinations depending on a travelers interest and must do activities, that’s why we always advise tourists to check on our website for authentic travel packages and content.

Explore Uganda

gamedrive safari

Explore Uganda|Best Time to Visit Uganda 2022-2023

The country located East of the African continent is among those worth a phrase Explore Uganda.  Blessed with effortless virgin beauty with almost everything a traveler would wish to have on the bucket list. It’s one of the unknown destinations in terms of a safari but with almost the same potential as those most known destinations even though in Uganda its different in its own way.

Exploring Uganda| Diversity of The Country

The country so green with its vast abundance of lush flora and fauna,rolling hills and mountains found all over the country’s wide-sides, Uganda remains among those destinations one needs to explore on an Africa safari.

The country has over 20 National parks and wildlife reserves which you can combine for a safari. Most tourists who visit Uganda opt to do gorilla trekking which is the highlight of a Uganda tour but the country has a lot to offer besides seeing only gorillas in their natural habitat. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga gorilla National parks are the only destinations where gorilla tracking can be done in Uganda.

SAFARI IN UGANDA | Explore Uganda

For safari kind of people, Uganda’s wide range of Savannah parks is an opportunity for many tourists visiting the country because they have a wide range to choose from. Most travelers combine these National parks to get broad and wide experience of wildlife viewing and some of them choose to do short safari tours for example, a safari to Uganda’s Murchison Falls National park for starters can be done in 3 short days just if you combine it with Rhino trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

The Murchison Falls National Park is one of the most famous parks in Uganda and it’s not often left out for Uganda’s visitors. Wildlife viewing here is in plenty because the park is home to about 354 birds species which makes it a popular destinations for ornithology and besides that it is also home to 79 mammals with 4 members of the African Big five animals.

The Murchison Falls National park is where the world’s most powerful waterfalls are found and it is here where the mighty River Nile forces itself into a narrow 7 meters gorge and drops down 45 meters into the Albert Nile. A trip to this world wonder is one of the many life changing scenes you can ever have on a Uganda safari.

Besides wildlife viewing in a safari vehicle here, most often tourists who visit Murchison Falls National Park, their highlight is a boat trip to the bottom of the falls. This is 17 km cruise down on the mighty River Nile to the point where the Murchison falls drops down.

Explore Uganda

Queen Elizabeth National Park | Explore Uganda

Often known as the “medley of wonders” the beautiful Queen Elizabeth National Park is actually the most visited of all parks found in Uganda. The park located south of Kampala city, about 410 km which makes it about 6-7 hours of driving through the scenic landscapes of the country.

Queen Elizabeth National Park wasn’t actually the park’s name not until the former Queen Elizabeth of the great Britain visited Uganda in 1954 and this park formerly known as Kazinga National Park and they decided to name it Queen Elizabeth. The park is home to about 600 of all Uganda’s bird species, 97 mammals with 4 members of the African big five animals and among them are the rare “Tree Climbing Lions” in the southern section of the park (Ishasha).

Most tourists visit this park because of it’s scenic potential especially for wildlife photography. The Rwenzori mountains borders this park in every corner so tourists can enjoy the spectacular beauty of the so called mountains of the moon even without a single step into them.

The park is also dotted with beautiful crater lakes which makes the destination even worth a visit.

Best Time To Visit Uganda.

Uganda can be visited all year round because of its stable climate which often favors travelers to travel any time of the year but besides all that, there’s of course that specific time of the year which is better for almost anyone.

First of all, from March-May and September-December its rainy seasons in Uganda and East Africa and from June-August and December-February are dry seasons. Most tourists visit Uganda in high/dry seasons and the parks are almost crowded everyday. During the low seasons that is wet season when it’s raining in East Africa, most of the tourism activities are discounted and its actually the best time to view the wildlife in their natural habitat.

Even though the wet seasons ain’t recommended, there are actually the best time of the year for adventure kind of tourists to visit Uganda. A lot of experiences can be seen during these hard times when on a Uganda safari.

 

Preparing for a trip to Uganda

preparing for a trip to Uganda

Preparing for a trip to Uganda

You are preparing for a trip to Uganda the pearl of Africa. But you are looking for someone who can arrange a customized itinerary with an opportunity to view as much wildlife as possible.

Yes, you need a genuine tour operator who can assist you. How can you do it?

Briefly, let’s ponder on the days of Christopher Columbus.

What does Christopher Columbus has to do with planning your future trip to Uganda?

Well, imagine you are a sailor hundreds of years ago. And like Christopher Columbus, you wanted to travel to a new destination you have never been to. Let’s say from Europe to Africa.

How would you travel there?

You can’t draw a map of the sea. It all looks the same.

You can’t rely on GPS, only the compass was around.

And you can’t really see where you’re going, because the trip would take months.

So, back in those days, the only real way you could get anywhere safely, and on time, was by being able to navigate with the stars…

You’d wait for the stars to come out, and then you’d look for the North Star (Polaris).

And that’s what humans did for centuries…

If you wanted to travel a long distance, you’d need to read the stars and use the North Star as your guide.

But those that didn’t know how to read the stars – often got themselves and their crew lost. Or worse – they got shipwrecked.

And it’s the same today.

If you want to travel to a new destination…

If you want to go to Africa for the first time…

You need to use the North Star as your guide.

Learn To Use The North Star For your travel plans

Do you want to visit Uganda one day?

Do you want to see rare wildlife such as mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, chimpanzees, lions, leopards…..

Whatever it is that you want to do – you’ll need your North Star to get there.

And when it comes to planning an African safari, I believe the best ‘North Star’ you can have: is to deal with a genuine tour operator, tour guide, tour consultant or recommendation from a friend.

There are so many travelers who have visited Uganda, so you can always find helpful reviews on TripAdvisor.

You just want to see gorillas, but have no idea of other things to do. It’s the tour operator/ consultant who will put together a compelling itinerary that is also priced competitively. You will be glad to have followed their advice regarding the lodges and things to do. It will be a memorable trip. It would still be a good safari even without the gorillas, but of course the gorillas are always the icing on the cake.

Taking the above into consideration will get you ready for a trip to Uganda.

Here are simple steps to prepare for your trip to Uganda

 Make your travel reservations/ bookings ahead of time

Booking your activities and accommodation can easily be done online with a tour operator. If you want to visit Uganda for gorilla tracking or any other activity, try to book your trip in advance. Let’s say you are looking for a customized itinerary. And would love to try out different things such as hiking, wildlife viewing, rafting, chimp trekking, and boat trip to see hippos and crocodiles. These are different things that need to be put together.Therefore, contact a genuine tour operator for ideas to help plan your next vacation at least 3-5 months or even a year in advance. It’s possible to book gorilla permits, accommodation for that period and know how much does it cost.

Visas for Uganda travelers

Apply for a visa to Uganda and there are 3 ways to do so. You can fill and submit an application online at Ugandan immigration website, go to the country’s embassies and high commissions abroad or get it on arrival at Entebbe airport or other entry points.

Vaccinations

For any trip to Uganda, an International certificate of yellow fever vaccination is required. This document verifies that you have

Take a pocket Wi-Fi device with you

A Wi-Fi device is an essential item because in Uganda free Wi-Fi is limited. Although there are tour guides who offer free Wi-Fi to their clients, there are times you will need your own. Especially if you are self-driving, it can be difficult navigating routes and finding specific locations. Google maps can be helpful and saves time.

Read travel guide books, blogs for inspiration

There several Uganda travel experts on the internet for instance the Ugandan tourist, Uganda uncovered, Diary of Muzungu. I encourage you to always read more on Uganda forum on TripAdvisor to look at opinions of people who have traveled to Uganda before.

Top attractions

 Weather, seasons and when to visit Uganda

Uganda lies across the equator with warm tropical climate and can be visited any time of the year. However, the country experiences two seasons, the dry and the wet season. The dry season occurs between December to February and June to September. This is the peak season and attracts many tourists. There are fewer rains and so you will find it easier to do gorilla tracking and chimp trekking into forests.

What to pack

Take an extra bag

When and where to go, map and itineraries

Exchanging local currency in Uganda

Even though Uganda is still a cash-based society, exchanging money now days is easier due to much acceptance of international ATM cards and credit cards.Plan to exchange your cash at Entebbe airport when you arrive or in Kampala city where there are several forex bureaus such as at lugogo Shoprite mall and grand imperial hotel. Exchanging cash at forex bureaus does not incur costs and you get better rates than in banks. Be sure to exchange enough cashto cover up your expenses.

Book recommendations

Brandt Travel Guides for Uganda

Lonely Planet – essential travel guide to Uganda

The culture smart series Uganda

Public transportation

If you want to use public transportation from one place to another, you can book tickets for buses online. Ugabus app can be helpful once you arrive in Uganda.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park

5 days Rwenzori Mountains Trek

Rwenzori Mountains National Park

The Rwenzori Mountains are one of Africa’s most iconic tourist destinations most especially for adventure kind of people.  Located in far south-west of the country Uganda about 335km from the capital.

These beautiful ranges of mountains are the highest of all Africa’s mountain range and 3rd of Africa’s highest peak after Mountain Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and Mountain Kenya.

It was recognized as a world heritage site in 1994 because of its standout scenic views and the all around natural beauty.

Flora & Fauna

About 1000sqkm (386 sq mi) Rwenzori mountains National Park is home to 217 recorded species of birds of which 19 of them are endemics of the Albertine rift and 70 mammals. Among them are the Chimpanzees, Forest Elephants, The Rwenzori Leopard, Monkeys, etc

ACTIVITIES IN THE RWENZORI MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

The park has several activities to do depending on what the traveler interest is but the highlight is a trek to the third highest peak in Africa. (The Margherita 5,109m ASL) which can take about 6-7 days of hiking and down.

But besides that tourists visiting the Rwenzori’s can also opt to do a day trek to either Lake Mahoma which is 3300 meters above sea level and it can take about 8-10 hours of hiking and down.

For group travelers, this mountain is a challenge as its tagline says (The Mystical Challenge) for older people who cannot do the hiking for a day, tour operators EBS Tours & Safaris can organize some optional activities like visiting the local communities around the park and experience their local ways of living or opt to do some other activities as advised by your tour operator.

BIRDING IN THE RWENZORI MOUNTAINS

For bird watchers, Rwenzori Mountains is one of the best birding destinations in the whole of Africa. With about 217 bird species which can be spotted here and the best part of it is that 19 of them can only be found here in the whole of the world. Some of the spectacular species you can spot are the Rwenzori Turaco, Handsome Francolin, Shelley’s crimson wing, Batis diops, Malachite sunbird, Bamboo warbler etc.

EBS Tours & Safaris can organize an extended Albertine rift endemics bird watching safari tailor-made for any kind of travel groups or solo travelers.

ACCOMMODATION IN RWENZORI NATIONAL PARK

Just like most of the National Parks in Uganda, they’re various types of accommodations at Rwenzori National Park ranging from Budget to Luxury travelers. Even though these accommodations are just outside the park, but it is just a close distance to the parks main entrance just about 30 minutes of driving and you’re at your favorite destination.

You can either book for yourself or be helped by a tour operator to book the accommodation which suits your budget.

GETTING THERE.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park can be reached by either Air or Road Transports.

Tourists can board chartered flights from Entebbe to Kasese Airstrip which takes about 30 minutes only which allows visitors to move a shorter journey to the park.

By road, there are two routes from Entebbe/Kampala which can take you to the Rwenzori Mountains. From Kampala via Mubende to Fort portal it takes about 5 hours of driving which is 301 km. And from Kampala to Masaka-Mbarara-Bushenyi to Kasese can take about 7-8 hours of driving which is 355km and with views of the famous Queen Elizabeth National Park this is one of the most recommended routes by most Tour Operators.

Walking Safaris

walking safaris

Lake Mburo National park walking safaris

Lake Mburo national park is one of the best places to undertake a Ugandan walking safaris.  It’s surprising how close you can get to animals for example in Lake Mburo you can spot zebras, giraffes, buffalo, topi, eland, impala and even a leopard on foot with experienced armed ranger. Lake Mburo is Uganda’s smallest savannah national park and the only one to do  walking safaris. It’s located in western Uganda about 253 km (3-hour drive) from Kampala, the capital of Uganda. The park has few predators which makes it ideal and safe for a walking safari. Walks usually take 3-5 hours in the morning depending on the walking capacity of the visitors. You will be accompanied by an armed ranger to look after your safety. The guide will have knowledge of identifying animal tracks, droppings, explaining savannah plants can be used for medicine and so on. Essential items to carry with you include camera, binocular, drinking water and snacks.

Nkuringo walking safaris

The ultimate tropical forest walking safari, Nkuringo walking safaris offers an opportunity for visitors to walk through Bwindi impenetrable forest national park, a UNESCO world heritage site home to half of the world’s mountain gorillas. The walk simply connects two gorilla centers of Bwindi which are Buhoma the park headquarters in the north and Nkuringo sector in the south. Buhoma lies at the lowest altitude of Bwindi about 1100 meters while Nkuringo is at 2000 meters and above sea level. This means that when you walk from Buhoma to Nkuringo you will be sloping down and climbing the other way round. It follows what used to be a road that closed down due to people exploiting the forest by cutting trees, littering the forest with waste which would eventually kill gorillas. The walk is now dedicated for tourists who are accompanied by a guide. It’s a chance to experience the rainforest and spot flora and fauna such as primates, birds, butterflies, insects, plants and flowers.

 

 

Safari Lodges in Rushaga Sector

safari lodges

Safari Lodges in Rushaga Sector (Bwindi Impenetrable National Park)

See our recommended mid-range and luxury safari lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park for your choice of stay when you shall be visiting to track mountain gorillas. With more than half of the world’s mountain gorillas in the world, Bwindi forest is one of the few places on earth where you can see habituated gorilla families in their natural habitat.

This park has four gorilla tracking sectors which include Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija and Nkuringo. Each of the four sectors offers unique gorilla tracking experience. Besides the gorillas, these sectors have something to offer. For instance, Nkuringo is best for landscape photography, Ruhija for birds, Buhoma for waterfalls, birds as well butterflies. So, you might need to do more activities than just seeing the gorillas.

Gorilla Safari Lodge

Gorilla safari lodge is one of the best safari lodges which is perfect for families or small groups of people traveling together, Gorilla safari lodge is a luxury lodge located in Rushaga gorilla sector. Perched on of the edge of the forest, the lodge is just a short walk away from the Rushaga gorilla tracking point. The lodge features 18 luxury cottages which join the main lodge with bar-lounge, restaurant and a fire place.

All cottages have the following amenities;

  • Private en-suit bathroom with cold and hot water
  • Solar powered lighting
  • Flush toilets
  • Private balcony
  • Breakfast in bed can be provided for your comfort.

The bar is fully stocked and the restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Gorilla Safari Lodge also has spa where you can have massage after a tiresome gorilla tracking experience.

There are five special cottages each with double rooms with nice of view of the forest. These rooms have a fireplace inside which provide warmth during cold nights and are spacious for families and smalls groups of travelers. There’s a fireplace for those who don’t have fireplaces inside their rooms to wind down in the evening by gathering around for storytelling and local music performances.

Ichumbi Lodge

One of the new luxury lodges in Rushaga sector, Ichumbi includes 9 double rooms which are elegant and incredibly comfortable.The lodge also has a restaurant, mini bar, free Wi-Fi, standby generator and parking space.

Built on the edge of Bwindi, all rooms have amazing and direct views of both the forest and terraced hills. There are rooms which can host up to 4 people and offer king size beds, private balconies, en-suit bathroom, hot and cold showers. It is a favorite for couples.

The staff at Ichumbi offer great service and hospitality such as free laundry service after gorilla tracking.

The lodge is close to the gorilla tracking center only 10-minutes walk which means that you don’t have to stress alarm clock to wake up early.

Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge

The location of this lodge along with comfortable rooms on the shores of the lake Mulehe, offers luxury accommodation. Its an area for relaxation in the midst of nature. Lake Mulehe Gorilla Safari Lodge contains spacious cottages. These include double/twin, single and triple rooms which can accommodate couples and parents with children. These rooms include hot and cold showers, private balcony and fantastic views of the lake. The family cottage includes a private tub and extra spacious rooms.

In addition to the comfortable cottages, the lodge offers restaurant for delicious food and a bar for cocktails, juices, cold beer, wines, spirits and soft drinks.

Boat and canoe rides are available to explore Lake Mulehe, giving you great views and birding. Try out community walks to visit BaTwa pygmies.

Accessibility of this lodge may be a disadvantage or disadvantage in one way or the other. Because it is located in between Bwindi Forest and Mgahinga gorilla national park giving you a chance to explore both parks. The southern Bwindi Rushaga gorilla center is 20km away while Ntebeko center in Mgahinga is 25km away from the lodge.

Lake Mutanda Resort/ Chameleon Hill Lodge

This is one of the chalet styled safari lodges which offers luxury accommodation and is situated on the shores of Lake Mutanda at 1,800 meters above sea level. It is just 14 km away from Rushaga gorilla tracking and 20 km from Mgahinga gorilla national park. Thus, it offers guests a chance to explore both parks for gorilla tracking and golden monkey tracking. The roads leading to the parks are not in good condition thus require 4WD vehicle.

This is one of the luxury safari lodges in Bwindi which contains 20 rooms including single, double/twin and triple.The rooms are equipped with en suit bathrooms, hot and cold, mosquito nets, safe and veranda overlooking lake mutanda.

Some of the rooms are about 50 meters away from the main lodge building. Concrete walk ways connect rooms to the main lodge building which features a bar and lounge, fireside dining area and mini library.

The lodge offers a cool atmosphere for relaxation because of the lake and a backdrop of Virunga volcanoes. Guests can explore lake Mutanda for boat and canoe rides, hiking and birding, visiting the local school on the island.

The Vegetarian visitors are catered for with a range of fruits and vegetable dishes such as fresh mushroom soup, egg plants because the lodge has a backyard garden.

Gorilla Valley Lodge

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