Navigating Entry Requirements for Travelers Visiting Tanzania

Visiting Tanzania

Discover the essential guide to navigating entry requirements for travelers visiting Tanzania. From visa regulations to health protocols, ensure a smooth travel with our comprehensive insights.

As travelers yearn to explore the wonders of visiting Tanzania, home to the majestic Serengeti National Park, the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro, and the vibrant culture of its people, understanding the entry requirements is paramount. Whether embarking on a safari adventure or immersing oneself in the rich tapestry of local life, here’s a comprehensive guide to navigating the entry requirements for travelers visiting Tanzania.

Visiting Tanzania: Essential Entry Requirements for Travelers

Visa Requirements:
For many nationalities, obtaining a visa is a prerequisite for entry into visiting Tanzania. Fortunately, Tanzania offers various visa options tailored to different travel purposes. Tourist visas are the most common and can typically be obtained upon arrival at major entry points, including airports and border crossings. However, it’s advisable to check the latest visa regulations and procedures, as they may vary depending on your nationality.

Is it possible to get a visa on arrival in Tanzania?

Getting a visa when you arrive in Tanzania is very possible for many nationalities. Tourist visas are commonly available upon arrival at major entry points in Tanzania including airports and border crossings. However, visa regulations and procedures may vary depending on your nationality, so it’s advisable to check the lates requirements before traveling.

You can actually process a evisa online before traveling to Tanzania and that could make everything easier and without any headache. Please use the link below:

Tanzania E-visa application link

Passport Validity:
Ensuring your passport meets Tanzania’s validity requirements is essential. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Tanzania. Additionally, it’s advisable to have at least one blank page for visa stamps.

Yellow Fever Vaccination:
Tanzania requires all travelers arriving from, or transiting through, countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission to present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. This requirement is enforced at ports of entry, and travelers without a certificate may be subject to vaccination upon arrival or denied entry.

Health Screening:
In light of global health concerns, Tanzania may conduct health screenings at ports of entry, particularly during outbreaks of contagious diseases. Travelers should be prepared to undergo temperature checks and health assessments upon arrival. It’s also advisable to carry a basic medical kit and adhere to recommended health protocols during your stay.

COVID-19 Protocols:
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Tanzania has implemented various measures to curb the spread of the virus. Travelers should stay informed about the latest COVID-19 protocols, including testing requirements, quarantine regulations, and entry restrictions. Additionally, it’s essential to comply with any health and safety guidelines issued by Tanzanian authorities during your visit.

Customs Regulations:
Tanzania has strict customs regulations governing the import and export of goods, including currency, firearms, medications, and wildlife products. Travelers should familiarize themselves with these regulations to avoid any issues during customs inspections. It’s also advisable to declare any dutiable or restricted items upon arrival to prevent delays or penalties.

Travel Insurance:
While not mandatory, having comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended when visiting Tanzania. Travel insurance provides financial protection against unforeseen events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and loss or theft of belongings. Ensure your policy includes coverage for activities you plan to undertake, such as safaris or adventure sports.

Respect for Local Customs:
Finally, as a guest in Tanzania, it’s important to respect local customs, traditions, and cultural norms. Dress modestly, particularly in rural areas and religious sites, and seek permission before photographing individuals or sacred sites. Embrace the warmth and hospitality of the Tanzanian people, and approach encounters with an open mind and a spirit of curiosity.

 While navigating the entry requirements for travelers visiting Tanzania may seem daunting, thorough preparation and awareness of the regulations will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. By adhering to visa requirements, health protocols, customs regulations, and local customs, travelers can embark on a journey of discovery and adventure in this enchanting East African destination.

Embark on Thrilling Rwanda Solo Safaris: Discover the Heart of Africa

Rwanda Solo Safaris

Embark on Thrilling Rwanda Solo Safaris: Discover the Heart of Africa

Are you an adventurous traveler seeking a unique and awe-inspiring journey? Look no further than Rwanda solo safaris. This hidden gem in East Africa offers a wealth of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and wildlife encounters that will leave you spellbound.
In this article, we’ll explore the beauty of Rwanda, its incredible wildlife, and the adventures that await solo travelers.
Introduction to Rwanda Solo Safaris
Rwanda, often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” is a captivating destination that beckons solo travelers to explore its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.
Nestled in the heart of Africa, this remarkable country is famous for its breathtaking scenery, including lush rainforests, serene lakes, and, of course, the magnificent Volcanoes National Park. It’s an ideal destination for those who want to venture off the beaten path and immerse themselves in nature.
Unveiling Rwanda’s Natural Beauty Rwanda is a country of astounding natural beauty. From the emerald-green hills that roll endlessly across the landscape to the pristine lakes reflecting the sky’s blue hues, it’s impossible not to be captivated by this stunning destination.
The Volcanoes National Park, part of the Virunga Mountains, is one of the highlights. Its mist-covered peaks and dense forests offer an immersive experience into the world of the endangered mountain gorillas.
 The Magnificent Wildlife
One of the main attractions of Rwanda solo safaris is the chance to come face-to-face with the awe-inspiring mountain gorillas.
These gentle giants share more than 98% of their DNA with humans, making the encounter a profound and emotional experience. Trekking through the dense forests to find these magnificent creatures is an adventure of a lifetime. Rwanda also boasts a wealth of other wildlife, including chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and a variety of bird species.
Akagera National Park, in the east of the country, provides the opportunity to witness the “Big Five” – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinoceros.
Cultural Immersion
Rwanda is not just a haven for nature enthusiasts; it’s also a place where you can immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of culture and history.
Visit the capital city, Kigali, and explore the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a place of deep historical significance. Learn about the nation’s path from a painful past to its remarkable progress and reconciliation. You can also engage with the friendly and welcoming Rwandan people, experiencing their traditions, dance, and music.
Visit local villages and participate in activities like basket weaving and traditional cooking to gain a deeper understanding of this vibrant culture.
Planning Your Rwanda Solo Safari 
When to Go?- The best time to embark on Rwanda solo safaris is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. During these periods, the weather is more predictable, and trekking in the national parks is more comfortable.
However, it’s essential to book your permits well in advance, as they are limited and in high demand.  Accommodation Rwanda offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious lodges to budget-friendly guesthouses. Depending on your preferences and budget, you can choose to stay in comfortable lodges near the national parks or opt for a more authentic experience in local guesthouses.
Safety and Solo Travel Rwanda is known for its safety, making it an excellent choice for solo travelers. The country has made significant strides in ensuring the security of its visitors. However, like any journey, it’s essential to take precautions, stay informed about local conditions, and follow the guidance of local authorities.
The Magic of Rwanda Awaits:
Rwanda solo safaris are a captivating and enriching adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. From the lush landscapes and captivating wildlife to the warm embrace of Rwandan culture, this East African gem promises an extraordinary experience for the solo traveler. So, pack your bags, put on your adventurous spirit, and get ready to discover the heart of Africa on an unforgettable Rwanda solo safari. Don’t miss the chance to witness the beauty and wonder that this remarkable country has to offer. Rwanda is waiting to share its magic with you.

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.

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.

Guide for a Uganda Safari

VIRUNGA NATIONAL PARK

A First timer’s guide to Uganda- and what to expect

Uganda is a landlocked country situated across the equator in East Africa. Due to its geographical location, a Uganda safari is one of the best things you should not miss while in East Africa, with dry and rain seasons in a year. North eastern parts, Karamajong region experiences dry spells in its semi-arid Kidepo valley national park the true African wilderness.
In the western region where the altitudes are high, cold weather and high amounts of rainfall are expected due to tropical rainforests such as Bwindi impenetrable forest national park and the large amounts of snow on the peaks of Ruwenzori Mountains.

Uganda is a country of diverse wildlife and culture and is commonly referred to as the pearl of Africa. In the travel media, Uganda is well known for its mountain gorillas and most visitors would travel to this beautiful country mainly for gorilla tracking experience. There are 10 national parks and 13 wildlife reserves protecting diverse wildlife including more than 1000 species of birds and big 5 mammals. There are also interesting geographical points such as the official source of the Nile the world’s longest river and Lake Victoria the largest fresh water lake with tropical islands.

Beyond the wildlife and natural beauty, the people of Uganda are very friendly and welcoming and their country is politically safe and secure for travelers. You can obtain visa on arrival at Entebbe international airport given you have your documents, apply online or at Uganda diplomatic embassy, thus traveling to Uganda is hustle free. The capital city Kampala is located 40 km away from the airport.

When traveling to Uganda for the first time, you need an understanding of what to expect on a trip. You could land on information that’s little confusing about the political situation. But if dealing with the right kind of tour operators, your research will pay off. And you will arrive in Uganda aware of the culture, common words in local language and the nature of transportation.

Survival tips for a Uganda safari

Don’t show off your valuables such as money, smartphones, computers or cameras. Keep all your belongings and don’t leave them un attended in public places.

Carry cash in dollars and local currency Uganda shillings because payments in local markets, craft shops are made both in cash but credit cards are also use in lodges and hotels.

TRANSPORTATION IN UGANDA

Uganda now owns a national carrier in Uganda Airlines . However there are several airlines which travelers use to fly to Uganda including Rwanda Air, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Emirates, Brussels, British airways, Royal Dutch among others.

Upon arrival, most travelers spend their first day/ night in Kampala city or Entebbe town which is an opportunity to explore Kampala or Entebbe by night. The following day you embark on a safari to your destination.

Getting around the country is reasonably easier with many tarmac roads and highways linking national parks and remote areas. While major roads are tarmac, it is not the case you expect to drive on rough dirt roads connecting national parks with dust and mad if it’s a rainy season.

And also expect long journeys from one destination to the other. However, in between long drives, you find amazing stopovers and en route attractions. For instance, Kampala to Bwindi national park in southwestern Uganda can take 9-10 hours’ drive.

Depending on the nature of your trip, there are options to travel around. Most tourists use private tour companies which provide a car with a tour guide/driver to take you on a trip.

There also public buses which can be used from Kampala going to different parts up country if you know where to get off. Payments are made in Uganda shillings as you enter the bus you are given a receipt which you must keep for verification.

Taking taxis in Kampala. There are two different taxis; the public taxis and private carbs. Carbs are highly recommended for visitors especially for pick up at Entebbe airport. Carbs are also good for privacy and safety.

When you are in Kampala, you will encounter traffic jam in the morning or evening hours. Bodaboda/ motorcycles are the most reliable and efficient way to beat traffic. Local people use Boda or taxi apps such as Uber, Safe Boda, Taxify which you can download and order a ride online at ease.

LANGUAGE

English is the official language of Uganda however local languages like Luganda is widely used too. Other international languages like French, German and Chinese are taught in schools and they are hardly spoken save for a few special linguistic tourist guides. No matter the language, Ugandans are always willing to help tourists out of any situation.

As a survival tip, we encourage travelers to try hard and master a few local language phrases such as greetings in Luganda.

ACCOMMODATION

There are different types of accommodation in Uganda. In Kampala and around Entebbe town there are a variety of accommodations ranging from budget friendly hotels, mid-range and deluxe to luxury hotels.

In and around Uganda national parks, accommodations are unique. There are lodges, tented camps with traditional style such as grass thatched lodges, home stays which offer a taste of Uganda culture. Most accommodations provide free Wi-Fi in the main lounge but rarely in rooms. For those who prefer low cost accommodations, there are also guest houses.

The service level and amenities are different depending on the type of the accommodation. Generally amenities provided in rooms include drinking mineral water, sandals, bathing soap, bath tabs services. Personal items like tooth brushes are not provided.

WHERE TO VISIT

The best places for safari are the Uganda national parks where visitors enjoy wildlife viewing and natural scenery. The capital Kampala is a great introduction to Uganda’s culture and hospitality. The city itself is located in the Buganda kingdom, a traditional dating back from 13th century. Because of its cultural significance, there are several cultural and historical attractions. Mengo royal palace and Bulange building on Mengo are the official places for the Kabaka of Buganda kingdom. The Buganda tourism board has done a great job creating beautiful monuments along the royal mile walk where visitors can learn history and culture of Buganda.

The Uganda national museum and other places of worship such as the Uganda martyrs shrine Namugongo.

THE POPULAR NATIONAL PARKS

A Uganda safari takes you to 10 of the country’s national parks most of which are located in western Uganda. These are destinations for wildlife viewing safaris. The most popular are primate tours which include gorilla tracking, chimpanzee tracking and golden monkey tracking activities. Game viewing safaris include game drives, boat cruises, game walks.

BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

The best of a Uganda safari destination  is Bwindi impenetrable forest national park where tourists are guaranteed to see mountain gorillas in the wild. The park is home to 430 gorillas about half of the world’s mountain gorillas including 17 gorilla families that are habituated for tourism. Gorilla tracking is the main activity and visitors are allowed to spend 1 hour up close with gorillas in their natural habitat. Those planning their gorilla safari must first book a gorilla permit through a tour operator or Uganda wildlife authority. The Park also has over 350 birds including 23 species endemic to Albertine rift valley.

MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK

Who does a Uganda safari and doesn’t visit the mighty Murchison falls, visitors looking for famous big 5 safari experience should consider a 4 days trip to Uganda’s largest conservation area-Murchison Falls National Park. Murchison falls is home to 79 mammals and 451 species of birds including Nile crocodiles and large pods of hippos. The park is bisected by the River Nile which forms the Murchison falls, the world’s strongest waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy game drive safaris and boat cruises on river Nile to view wildlife including elephants, zebra, buffalo, lion, leopard, Uganda kob, Jackson’s hartebeest, topi, errand, spotted hyena. A trip to Murchison falls is about 4-5 hours’ drive from Kampala. Along the way, there’s Ziwa rhino sanctuary home to 23 southern rhinos. Before going to Murchison Falls, make a stopover at Ziwa for rhino tracking on foot with a ranger.

QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK

Located in the great east African rift valley in the shadow of the mountains of the moon, Queen Elizabeth National Park is the most visited park in Uganda because of wildlife and beautiful scenery. Big 4 mammals including the rare tree climbing lions are found in the park’s southern Ishasha wilderness along with several antelopes such as Uganda kob and topi.

KIBALE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Kibale forest national park is one of the best destinations for a Uganda safari and it is home to 13 species of primates including chimpanzees. There are several groups of chimps that are habituated, making the park one of the best chimpanzee tracking safari destination. Guided chimp walks allow visitors to see chimpanzees and also spot several species of primates.

LAKE VICTORIA ISLANDS

A Uganda safari is not only about wildlife, with the great Lake Victoria around, it  is the largest tropical lake in Africa. It’s shared by Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. Ugandan section of the lake has scenic tropical islands which include Sesse islands, Bulago islands and Ngamba island chimpanzee sanctuary. Sesse and Bulago have white sand beaches where visitors can relax and chill after a safari. While Ngamba is exclusively a chimp rehabilitation sanctuary where visitors can participate in chimpanzee feeding and care giving. These islands are located off Entebbe airport shoreline and accessible by boat ride or ferry.