Discovering the Magic: An Unforgettable Uganda Safari Experience

Serengeti National Park

An Unfogettable Uganda Safari Experience

Uganda Safari Experience
Buffalo in Uganda  copyright @Christiaan V

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime Uganda safari experience and discover the natural wonders of the “Pearl of Africa.” In the heart of the African continent lies a land of extraordinary beauty and untamed wilderness-Uganda. Often reffered to as the “Pearl of Africa”, this nation offers an awe-inspiring safari experience that is as unique as it is enchanting. As the sun casts its golden rays upon the savannas and jungles, a journey through Uganda unveils a tapestry of natural wonders and unforgettable encounters.

The Unique Charm of Uganda’s Safari Experience:

Diverse Landscapes: One of Uganda’s most remarkable features is its diverse landscapes, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable Uganda safari experience. From the iconic savannas of the famous Queen Elizabeth National Park to the misty Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda’s terrain is a testament to the country’s rich biodiversity. The variety of ecosystems ensures that each day of your safari presents a different adventure.

The Big Five and Beyond: While many dream of encountering Africa’s Big Five animals-Lion,Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, and a Rhinoceros-Uganda offers something even more magical. Here, you can embark on a quest to spot the Big Five alongside the rare and elusive tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha and the gentle giants of the Murchison Falls-Nubian giraffes.

Primate Paradise: Uganda is renowned as a primate paradise, adding a unique dimension to your Uganda safari experience. The forests of Kibale National Park and the aforementioned Bwindi Impenetrable Forest are home to some of the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. A close encounter with these remarkable creatures is an experience that transcends ordinary travel.

safari in uganda

Birdwatchers Paradise: For avid birdwatchers, Uganda is an absolute haven, enhancing your Uganda safari experience. With over 1,000 species of birds, including the vibrant Great Blue Turaco and the majestic Shoebill Stork, the country’s forests, wetlands and lakes are an avian paradise. Exploring the waterways of Lake Victoria or the crater lakes of Fort Portal will leave you spellbound by the sheer diversity of birdlife.

The Magic of Safari in Uganda:

Gorilla Trekking: Undoubtedly, the highlight of any Ugandan safari is the thrilling gorilla trekking experience. With just a limited number of permits available each day, you embark on a journey deep into the rainforest, guided by expert trackers. As you come face to face with a gorilla family, the profound connection with these gentle giants is an indescribable moment of wonder, enhancing your Uganda safari experience.

Game Drives: Game drives through Uganda’s national parks are a visual feast, further enriching your Uganda safari experience. Picture yourself traversing the open savannas, with herds of elephants browsing in the distance, lions lazing under the acacia trees, and graceful antelopes leaping through the tall grass. Every game drive promises a unique encounter with Africa’s incredible wildlife, adding depth to your Uganda safari experience.

Boat Safaris: Uganda’s waterways offer a different perspective on the wilderness. Boat safaris along the Kazinga Channel and the Nile River provide opportunities to witness hippos wallowing , crocodiles sunning on the banks and an array of birdlife congregating near the water’s edge, further enhancing your Uganda safari experience.

Conservationa and Sustainability: Uganda is not only a destination for unforgettable safaris but also a nation commited to conservation and sustainability. Community-based initiatives and responsible tourism efforts ensure that the stunning landscapes and wildlife are preserved for future generations to appreciate, making your Uganda safari experience not only memorable but also responsible and sustainable.

An unforgettable Uganda safari experience is more than just a journey through the wild; it is an immersion into the soul of Africa. The warmth of its people, the symphony of its wildlife, and the breathtaking vistas of its landscapes come together to create an experience that will forever reside in your heart. Uganda’s safari is an invitation to rediscover the wonders of the natural world and to become part of the wild tapestry that is the “Pearl of Africa.”

Uganda Wildlife Safari

Uganda Wildlife Safari

Uganda Wildlife Safari: What To Expect on Your African Adventure.

If you’re planning an African adventure, a Uganda Wildlife Safari should be on your bucketlist. Uganda is a stunning country located in East Africa, known for its diverse wildlife and breathtaking natural landscapes. A Uganda Safari offers visitors an opportunity to witness some of the world’s most incredible wildlife up-close and personal.

Here’s what you should expect on a Uganda Safari:

WILDLIFE

uganda widlife safari

Uganda is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, lions, leopards, and many more. The country’s national parks and wildlife reserves offers visitors with a chance to see these beautiful animals in their natural habitats. One of the most popular destinations for a Uganda Safari is the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, which is home to over half the remaining population of mountain gorillas.

Gorilla trekking is a must-do a ctivity for any safari-goer in Uganda, and it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

SCENERY

In addition to its incredible widlife, Uganda is also home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. From the rolling hills and valleys of the Rwenzori Mountains to the vast savannas of the famous Queen Elizabeth National Park, there’s no shortage of stunning landscapes to explore. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Uganda is on a hot air balloon safari, which will give you a bird’s eye view of the country’s stunning scenery.

CULTURE

Uganda is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and a Uganda Safari is a great way to experience this firsthand. Many of the national parks and wildlife reserves are located near local communities, which gives visitors an opportunity to learn more about the country’s diverse culture and traditions.

You can visit local villages, interact with the people, and learn more about their way of life. This is a great way to gain a deeper understading of Uganda’s history and culture.

ACCOMMODATION

There are a variety of accommodation options available for visitors on a Uganda wildlife safari, ranging from luxury lodges to budget friendly campsites. Many of the lodges and campsites are located within or near the national parks and wildlife reserves, which means you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Uganda. Some of the lodges even offer activities such as guided nature walks, bird-watching, and cultural perfomances.

GUIDES

To get the most out of your Uganda Wildlife Safari, its important to have a knowledgeable guide who can help you navigate the parks and wildlife reserves. Many of the guides in Uganda are locals who have grown up in the area and have a deep undertanding of the country’s wildlife and culture. They will be able to to answer any questions you have and help you spot wildlife that you might otherwise miss.

In conclusion, a Uganda Wildlife Safari is an unforgettabe experience that you won’t want to miss. From the incredible wildlife to the stunning scenery and rich cultures, there’s something for everyone in Uganda. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time visitor, a Uganda Wildlife Safari is sure to leave an ever lasting impression on you.

 

Is Uganda or Rwanda better for Gorilla Trekking?

Is Uganda or Rwanda better for Gorilla Trekking?

Could be a hard task choosing if it is Uganda or Rwanda better for gorilla trekking?, well we go an extra-mile to give our clients a go to when choosing where they should track gorillas from by putting down some of the tips they should know in each destination where gorilla trekking is mainly done from.

Best Destination for Gorilla Trekking?

5 days gorillas of Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Well as the saying goes that trekking to see gorillas in their natural habitat is an absolute “life changing experience” tour operators would need to give vast options and notes to tourists before finalizing their trip to go and see gorilla so that they meet their expectations.

Mountain gorilla trekking can be done in only three countries on earth and those being just Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, it is quite a hard for someone from Europe to choose which destination they can take as the best for gorilla trekking.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda| Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

If it has always been your dream to see the giant grate apes in your life, then Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable forest should be on your bucketlist. It is home to half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas and with almost more than 15 habituated gorilla families which can be trekked on a daily, it is one of the most popular gorilla tracking destinations in the world if not the most popular.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, is located on the edge of the virunga mountains just close to the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Because of gorilla tracking rates in Uganda which is US$700 a permit and it is way too cheaper than that of Rwanda, most travelers fly into Rwanda and track gorillas in Uganda. It takes just about 2-3 hours of driving from Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or even Mgahinga gorilla National Park.

Comparing a journey from Uganda’s Entebbe International Airport to Rwanda’s Kigali International Airport, it’s easier to drive 2 hours from Kigali than driving close to 10 hours from Entebbe. Well that depends on gorilla tracking only.

Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda| Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda’s most iconic protected area is undoubtedly “Parl el nationale des volcanes” home to both Golden Monkeys and Mountain gorillas, it is an adventure haven for primate tracking safaris.

Volcanoes National Park is home to more than 10 habituated gorilla families which can be trekked daily but seeing gorillas in Rwanda is different to Uganda’s in terms of costs. A permit to see gorillas in Rwanda goes for US$1500 per person.

Volcanoes being close to the city of Kigali, it makes it easier or people who travels ona short notice. You can see gorillas in just a day of arriving in Rwanda unlike Uganda unless using a flight.

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.

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.

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.

 

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.

 

 

Queen Elizabeth National Park

queen elizabeth national park

Tree Climbing Lions of Queen Elizabeth National Park (ishasha sector)

Uganda wildlife authority identify about 5 prides of Lions that have a behavior of climbing fig trees in Ishasha wilderness of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

This park receives the highest number of visitors in Uganda because of its combination of activities such as game drive safari, boat cruise on Kazinga channel and chimp trekking.

Among the big cats, only leopard and jaguar can climb trees efficiently. So why do Ishasha lions climb trees? National geographic explorer Alexander Braczkowski visited Uganda in 2018 to prove why Ishasha lions climb trees. Firstly, hefound that there are stinging insects in Ishasha that fly close to the ground. As a result, lions learn to climb trees where its comfortable to relax especially after a kill. Secondary, the lions also climb to the tree branches to get a good view of prey.

These lions climb trees at different times of the day.Between 9am, 11pm, 1pm to 3pm most visitor going through Ishasha spot the lions. However, it’s also true that a number of visitors miss to see them as well.

Lions with a behavior of climbing tree have also been reported in two Uganda national parks – Kidepo Valley National Park and Murchison falls national park. Around East Africa, tree climbing lions are also reported in Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania. It’s not clear if the reasons for Ishasha lions to climb trees are same for lions else in East Africa.

Best chance to see Ishasha tree climbing lions?

Queen Elizabeth national park is divided into two sectors. They include; Kasenyi area in the north includes Kazinga channel, Mweya peninsular, kyambura gorge, several crater lakes including Lake Katwe where salt mining takes place.

Ishasha lies in the south west of the park. most visitors drive through Ishasha from Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi forest or from Bwindi to coming Queen. If just driving through, you may or may see tree climbing lions. However, if you overnight in Ishasha it gives enough time for game drive and high chance to see tree climbing lions. Likewise, when you leave Kasenyi early morning, it gives you enough time for game drives in Ishasha before you continue further southwest.

Lion tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Kasenyi pains has lions that do not climb trees. Although it’s no guarantee to see lions, the Experiential Lion tracking does. Paying for lion tracking allows to go off road (what other visitors are not allowed to do) to look for lions and get close to them for 2 good hours.

Wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Over 79 mammals live in Queen Elizabeth National park. Large mammals include African elephant, cape buffalo, hippo, leopard. Antelopes include Uganda kob, waterbuck, topi (found only in Ishasha). There over 600 bird species including flamingos.

Do not expect to see large herds of animals such as those in Masai Mara kenya or Serengeti Tanzania. However, on game drives in you will be able to spot wildlife such as buffalo, elephant, Uganda kobs, buffalo, leopard, hyena and lion. Better option to see wildlife is to book a boat cruise on Kazinga channel to see hippos, crocodiles, water birds and mammals that come to drink on the shores.Kazinga channel connects Lake Edward and Lake George.

The scenery of the park is beautiful particularly the crater lakes, Ishasha, rift valley and a backdrop of Rwenzori mountains.

Activities in Queen Elizabeth national park

Besides game drives and boat cruise, there are a number of activities. Experiential tours include lion tracking, mongoose tracking, bird counts and hippos census. These are booked in advance.

You can visit lake Katwe to see the process of salt mining.

Chimpanzee trekking can be done in Kalinzu forest reserve. Nature walks are available in Kyambura gorge.

Community and cultural tours are available as well mostly outside the park. Kasoga community experience is found in Hamukungu landing site on the shores of Lake George. The experience offers several activities such as canoe rides, village walks and fishing tours.

How you can help save the tree climbing lions of Ishasha

It’s unfortunate one pride of 11 lions was poisoned in 2018 after attacking livestock in the community. Along with the Uganda Wildlife Authority community conservation programs, National geographic explorer Alexander Braczkowski who had been filming the lions started GoFundMe, a charity that is raising money to compensate local people that loose livestock from predator attack.

 

 

 

Safari in Uganda

safari in uganda

 

Guide to planning a safari in Uganda 2022

We share our specially prepared itineraries and look at the most popular Uganda wildlife national parks for safaris to help you plan your adventure safari in Uganda.

When visiting for a safari in Uganda, the pearl of Africa many will emphasize that your itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a trip to see mountain gorillas. that’s because, gorilla tracking is Uganda’s main tourism activity and the best things to do on any African safari. However, when it comes to deciding what safari in Uganda, a lot of things for your choice.

So, you are considering traveling to Uganda, there are various factors that you need to understand. For instance, what kind of tour you are going to be on, for how long to spend in each place and what it shall include.

This guide is for those who would like to their first African wildlife safari to Uganda.

So, what are wildlife safaris destination in Uganda?

A Uganda wildlife safari is all about covering a lot of ground as you drive from one place to another doing activities like early morning game drive with afternoon boat safari, treks through the jungles in search of gorillas or chimpanzees, hiking, nature walk, bird watching, sightseeing, community tours…. You can do all this by opting for a safari in vehicle which is the most popular, walking safari, hot air balloon safari or safari of other kind.

Of course, there are many adventurous activities such as white-water rafting and kayaking on the Nile river, canoeing, horseback rides, spot fishing. Its better to have a trip that allow you to try as many activities and view wildlife as possible.

There are many options for different types of travelers regardless of budget. What differentiates one itinerary from the other is the choice of accommodation and whether you fly in.

Yes, you will be glad to follow advise regarding the lodges and things to do.There are many posts by bloggers, tour operators and travelers on various forums discussing their experiences in Uganda.

For instance, a solo traveler who spent 8 days on safari Uganda reviewed like this “It was a memorable trip. It would have been a very good journey even without the gorillas, but of course gorillas were the icing on cake”.

Some overall thoughts:

Wildlife viewing in Uganda may not be as good as a traditional Kenya or Tanzania safari. Though, the ability to combine that primate trekking safaris and other activities like boat safaris in Murchison falls, Queen Elizabeth and lake Mburo national parks is great. If you have been to Africa before, you can attest to that. But if you have never been to Africa before, you will be happy with what you see in Uganda.

As for the best time to visit, Uganda can be visited all year round. Though, this depends on the activities you wish to do. The high / dry season (December to February and June to September) are considered the best time for primate trekking like gorilla tracking and chimpanzee trekking as well game viewing. However, visiting off season (March to May and October to November)shouldn’t be overlooked. Because the number of visitors is low, you are able to get discounts for value and the landscape is green.

Getting around, Uganda has improved its road network which is good even for the self-drive enthusiast. However, expect to cover a lot ground with some drives involving long distances such as over 400 km sq about 8-9 hour-drive. This is dependent on how your itinerary is scheduled and variable road conditions.

 

Going on safari in Uganda, the most popular national parks

There are 10 Uganda wildlife national parks wherein you can go for a safari. Take some time to research which itinerary best suits your budget and other needs and go for it.Make sure that you find a registered tour operator. Here we look at 6 most popular for safari.

Safari in Murchison falls National Park

Most famous for the Murchison falls, arguably the world’s strongest waterfall. Murchison falls is formed as the waters of the Nile river squeezes through a narrow gorge and plunges over a 45-meter cliff with a thunderous roar. The mist around creates a trade mark rainbow. The view from the hike to the top of the falls is beautiful.

Murchison falls is the largest conservation area in Uganda and covers a diverse habitat with tracts of woodlands, open grasslands dotted with borrosous palm trees, Nile-delta swamps.

Wildlife to see in Murchison falls

There are 79 mammals including leopard, lion, elephant, buffalo, hartebeest, hippos, giraffe, oribi, waterbuck, bushbuck, Uganda kob, bush pig and many more. 415 bird species including the pre-historic looking shoebill stork. Reptiles include Nile crocodiles

The park offers a wonderful Uganda safari experience, activities you can do include game drive, boat cruise on the Nile, night game drive, top of the falls hike, day nature walk, hot air balloon safaris, spot fishing, rafting and community tours.

When visited on its own, the minimum number of days is (3) with an option to visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary or add an extra night in Budongo forest reserve for chimpanzee trekking.

Several accommodation options are available in the south and north side of the Nile. Murchison falls is located 5-6 hours drive from Kampala.

 

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Uganda’s most visited park, Queen Elizabeth lies in the shadow of the Rwenzori mountains on the rift valley floor. Its diverse habitats include tropical forests, kazinga channel, grasslands, wetlands, crater lakesprovide home to 95 mammals and over 612 bird species. Big 4 mammals including tree climbing lions which are found in Ishasha the area where you pass driving from QENP to Bwindi southwestern Uganda.

What makes this park popular is its ability to offer travelers a variety of activities, one can do in a single day. For instance, in the morning you can do chimpanzee tracking in Kalinzu forest or kyambura gorge. In the afternoon take a boat cruise along Kazinga channel and end with evening or night game drive.

There are experiential tourism activities such as lion tracking, hippo census, bird counts and mongoose tracking.

Kibale forest National Park

This park is known as the primates capital of the world because its home to 13 primates species including man. Therefore, Kibale forest national park has the highest concentration of primates in Africa. The primary activity is chimpanzee tracking which can be done in the morning and afternoon. Chimpanzee habituation experience gives a full day encounter with chimps. There’s also Kibale forest walk which can be done during day and at night. Its enjoyable but you may not see as much as you expect, just go for it if you love nature. Outside the park, you can as well visit Bigodi wetland for a community walk usually done in the afternoon.

Bwindi impenetrable forest national park and Mgahinga gorilla national park

Lake Mburo National Park

Kidepo valley National Park

Off the tourist radar

Semuliki national park

Rwenzori mountains national park

Sample Itineraries

Days 1-4 visit Bwindi impenetrable forest national park with game drive in Lake Mburo national park. Activities you can undertake include gorilla tracking, walking safari or game drive in Lake Mburo.

Days 5 – 7 visit Kibale forest national park, queen Elizabeth national park, Bwindi impenetrable forest national park and lake Bunyonyi. Activities include gorilla tracking, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale forest, game drive and boat cruise on Kazinga channel which teem with birds, hippos, crocodiles, elephants and buffalos. From Queen Elizabeth NP to Bwindi via Ishasha wilderness offer potential sighting of tree climbing lions.

8 days Uganda visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison falls, Kibale forest national park, Queen Elizabeth NP, Bwindi forest/ Lake Bunyonyi. Activities you can undertake include rhino tracking, top of the falls hike which boasts breathtaking view of river Nile, game drive and river Nile boat cruise, exclusive boat ride, hot air balloon safari, chimpanzee tracking, Bigodi swamp walk, second boat cruise Kazinga channel, gorilla tracking, canoe or boat ride on Lake Bunyonyi.

One thing to note for trips starting at Entebbe going to Murchison falls and ending in southwestern Uganda. You should choose one leg of your flights to/from Kigali instead of driving long distance from south west to go through Entebbe both times. It might save you some time.

 

Days 9 – 15 You can include Kidepo valley national park far in the north, Murchison falls, Kibale forest, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, Mgahinga. Possible sightings in Kidepo include cheetah and ostrich which are not found in other parks. Also unique is golden monkey tracking in Mgahinga gorilla national park.

Other activities not included here can be added into any of the above itineraries. For instance, white water rafting and kayaking can be done for 1-day visit t Jinja which is 2 hour-drive east of Kampala city.

Gorilla Trekking Tips

Gorilla trekking

Gorilla Trekking Tips

Gorilla trekking can be done in Uganda, Rwanda or Democratic republic of Congo. in Uganda, gorillas are found in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park and Mgahinga gorilla national park. In Rwanda gorillas are found in Volcanoes national park Rwanda and Virunga national park in eastern democratic republic of Congo.

Trekking gorillas in their natural habitat is a wonderful wildlife experience. Visitors are accompanied by guides and rangers into the forest hiking on foot in search of the habituated gorilla families. The chance to see gorillas in the wild is 99%. However it can be challenging due to a number of factors such as terrain, season thus it requires thorough preparation and planning.

Assess your fitness levels for gorilla trekking

The chances are 99.9 % seeing gorillas in their natural habitat in Uganda or Rwanda. But on the flip side, believe that hiking on foot through the tropical forests in search of the habituated gorillas is not easy; it requires physical strength and good health condition. How long does it take to see gorillas is the number one question asked by so many elderly visitors.

Mountain gorillas live in dense and steep forested mountains and move wherever they want looking for food.  Thus it’s difficult to predict how easy, short or longer a gorilla trek will be. It can range anywhere between 30 minutes to more than 8 hours when the trek gets longer. However you can still track gorillas regardless of your fitness level. Mental preparation is important too.

There are some visitors who get problems along the way and end up being airlifted to and from the gorillas on emergency, though that incurs extra high cost paid to the porters. Visitors who feel are not fit enough can hire porters to assist carrying backpack and giving you a push where necessary.

Take not of the altitude and terrain. Bwindi forest is divided into four sections which are located at varying altitudes. Basing on your fitness level, getting to know the gorilla tracking sectors it can help determine which sector to book for a gorilla permit. For instance Buhoma Sector north of Bwindi forest lies at lower altitudes of 1100 meters and the trekking can be relatively easy. While the southern sectors including Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga lies at higher altitudes 2200 meters thus treks can be difficult.

In Rwanda, volcanoes national park is dominated by steep virunga volcanoes but the vegetation cover is not thick as it is in Bwindi. Trekking in Rwanda isn’t strenuous as it can be in Bwindi.

 

Generally, you don’t have to be in a shape of an athlete. Anyone including visitors of 70 years old age plus can have a successful and memorable gorilla trekking experience.

Book a gorilla permit in advance

Plan your gorilla tracking adventure well in advance at least 3-5 months in advance. No limit you can even book a year in advance. The reason for that is to have first choice of the gorilla permit at a preferred destination. Due to many travelers planning for gorilla tracking, often times gorilla permits are sold out and one can’t find out availability during the peak season for gorilla tracking between December to February and June to September. That’s true for those planning to track gorillas in Bwindi; you have to book in advance to secure a gorilla permit at one of the park’s gorilla centers as well as accommodation of choice.

If you are planning for Rwanda, gorilla permits may be available all year round but advance booking for accommodation is required. So check with your operator.

What else to do besides gorilla trekking?

Once you select your destination and secure gorilla trekking permits, it’s time to look to other activities you can whether its game viewing or cultural tour. It takes an itinerary tailored to your needs, budget and time by a safari expert. One day gorilla tracking is only possible in Rwanda due to the short drive time from Kigali to volcanoes national park. While it’s impossible to have such in Uganda, It’s possible to have 2 days gorilla trekking in Uganda only if you arrive at Kigali Rwanda. But if you arrive at Entebbe airport Uganda, the shortest itinerary is 3 days gorilla trekking safari. If you have more time, when visiting Uganda for gorilla tracking, it’s recommended to add Queen Elizabeth national park for game drives and boat rides to view elephants, tree climbing lions, hippos, and lots of game which can take 5 days itinerary. There are many options for those extending their gorilla safari in Uganda up to 7 days and it can include chimpanzee tracking in kibale forest national park.

When is the best time to track gorillas?

The months of December to February and June to September mark the peak/ dry season, which is the best time to go for gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda or DR Congo. During the dry season, the tropical forest trails are drier and easier to navigate on foot while searching for gorillas. Nevertheless, make sure to bring a rain jacket because rainfall is unpredictable. It can rain any time of the day in Bwindi. The dry season is great for wildlife safari if you’re combining gorilla trekking with other activities such as game drives, birding, and hot air balloon safaris.

On the other hand, the wet/ rainy season from April to May and October to November are characterized by short and heavy rains. This season has its own advantages, despite the rains; gorilla trekking can be spectacular too. Visitors should expect and prepare for drizzles, heavy rains, muddy forest trails and a lot of plant foliage.

Special Credit for the featured picture: @Rod Waddington

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