DOUBLE GORILLA TREKKING ON A SELF DRIVE SAFARI
Looking forward for a perfect self-drive adventure safari, Uganda offers the best of it. Safari tips and helping you choosing your self drive safari in the pearl of Africa. May be you can be interested in trekking the world’s most endangered species and endemic to the rain forests of the Virunga conservation areas.
This 9 – passenger Seater Toyota Hiace Safari Van is good for families that want to go for game drives in national parks
The world has a population of over 1000 mountain gorillas and Uganda alone holds over half of the world’s population of mountain Gorilla. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has over half of the world’s Mountain Gorillas and the half found in the Virunga conservation region including, Virunga National Park in DRC, Volcanoes National Nark in Rwanda and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Arguably double gorilla trekking Uganda is the best suggestion for any travel, don’t mind can luxury, mid-range or budget travel try it out. only in Uganda one can double trek gorillas in two different of Mgahinga Gorilla Park where gold meets sliver and Bwindi impenetrable park the ultimate Gorilla experience.
In Uganda from several car hire companies you can negotiate and be offered the best 4×4 self-drive tourist vehicle that can maneuver matter the weather conditions leading you to trek the most endangered world species. With wide range of car rentals including the 4×4 safari land cruiser TX, Nisan patron, Toyota hiace, RAV4, land cruiser JX, all on the list of best tour vehicle and can come along with camping equipment if requested.
It is very easier and cheaper with a self-drive adventure as you can have plenty of time to explore your tailor made gorilla safari adventure. Double Gorilla trekking with a 4×4 WD avails you enough time to exhaust to the pinnacle of desired Gorilla adventures.
4X4 loof top camper van
Be fully equipped with gorilla trekking gears for instance rain proof as the weather in these gorilla rain forests can’t be predicated, trekking jungle boots, have your 4x4WD tour vehicle. Visitors on a self-drive must have a valid international driving license, whenever you behind the wheels it should be at hand . Driving to the southwestern of Uganda about 8/9 hours, can have stopover at the equator photographs and Mbarara town for lunch, then continue south wards through Kabala to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to one of the four sectors. Advisable to have your overnight at your trekking sector as indicated on your permit.
Early morning the next day after your breakfast, before 800clock be at your trekking point/sector as located on your permit among are Buhoma Headquarter of the park in the north of the park, Ruhija in the eastern, southeaster is Rushaga and Nkuringo southwestern. After briefing you are led by an armed guide ranger searching the giants through hilly, muddy, and thick eco-rainforest.
some times you may need a porter and packed lunch with at least two liters of water because trekking may take 30 minutes to 10 hours because you’re not sure of where to find the giants within the thick forest. The trekking could be challenging, however finding them then the exhaustion disappears and start adoring the view of man’s evolution. trekkers are given one hour in gorillas presence watching them at a distance of 7 meters as young ones are hopping in tree branches and the old one bothering the tree buds. Then turning back to your campsite or lodge to rest after full day of enjoying the gentle giants and appreciate the ultimate Gorilla experience of Bwindi repeatedly habitat of over half of world’s population of the mountain Gorillas.
The next day continuing to far southwestern Uganda to Mgahinga Gorilla Park where gold meets sliver about 10okm/h from Bwindi via kisoro districts. On the same day at evening hours you can decide to do a community visit to typical pygmies the Batwa people to learn about lifestyle how the co-existed with the gorillas in the forest for cultural entertainment.
4X4 WD Toyotal Land cruiser
Through Ntebeko entrance early morning before 800clock visitors are briefed and grouped in the number of 8 to trek a single family of mountain gorillas, those infected with cough cold flue are not allowed trek, Gorillas share 98% of human DNA but has weak immune system that can be easily affected by that simple cough which can certainly kill them, then with an armed park ranger hiking through forest to trek the special mountain gorillas and there chance of encountering the golden monkey to living along with the gorillas.
Trekking from Bwindi impenetrable national park and Mgahinga Gorilla Park make Uganda offering one with the only opportunity of double Gorilla trekking.
To trek the world’s most endangered Mountain Gorillas you need to book for your trekking permit at least three month before your trekking date due to high demand for the activity worldwide.
Then in your 4×4 tour vehicle return back to Kampala after you have fully exhausted the real Gorilla world. Don’t hesitate to inquire from our team of experts to hire your self drive 4x4WD tourist vehicle.
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Kidepo Valley National Park: One of Africa’s Best Destination
Safari Booking is the chief online marketplace and leading platform for planning African safari tours. Safari Booking through reviews of different award winner panel of writers writing about Africa’s destinations especially national parks Safari booking rate Kidepo Valley National Park elven among the 50 African destinations to visit in 2019.
The Kidepo Valley National Park is situated in a remote corner of northeastern Uganda bordering both Kenya and South Sudan, the park has rarely been visited by tourists due to expenses and difficulty of accessing, however currently getting more popular. The park is a true African wilderness destination for safaris adventure with rough mountains, often lost in rain clouds, enclosing the park.
Zebras and other wildlife sightings in the wildness
The word Kidepo comes from Dokoth verb ‘akidep’ meaning to “pick up” where the park derives its name Kidepo Valley National and is settled on 1442 square kilometer open also known for its unique culture the karamojongo. The tribe that dances to the beat of their own drums who defied the current civilization holding to the ancient way of life and locally known as pastoralists claiming to own all long horned cattle in Uganda. The park was established in 1958 as a game reserve and become a national park in 1962.
Kidepo national park was occupied by the mighty armed warriors the Karamonjongo and the Ik but was gazetted as a game reserve by the British colonial government in 1958 and in 1962 it was changed to a national park by Milton Obote’s government who was by then the Ugandan prime minister. The park has gone through several Management’s starting from the first Chief Warden Ian Ross.
The park can be accessed from different routes including Kampala Soroti through Amuria to the Kidepo park 592km/h, the route is the most rewarding with scenic view of wildness and the kejongos people in their communities along the way, watching the Manyatta and there chances of viewing half naked person on your drive through the region. From Kampala through Moroto to Kidepo covers a distance of 684km/h driving through Matheniko and Piena Upe game reserves and from Kampala through Kitgum to the park is 575km/h and park is raised at the altitude of 914mm to 2,750mm above sea level.
The most permanent source of water is the kanangorok hot springs found in the extreme north of the park in the South Sudan’s boarder. It has excellent wildlife viewing during the Dry season, featuring several species not encountered anywhere else in the country. The large, open plains make Kidepo feel more like parks in neighboring countries than in Uganda
Sunny days and thin vegetation make the Dry season (September to March) the best time to go for wildlife watching in Kidepo, this is also when animals go searching for a dependable source of water. An advantage of exploring Kidepo when the rains come is that the dust and heat tend to get washed away, and the birding.
This is a sole park in Uganda where visitors can sight both Zebras and Giraffes and on rare occessions you can sight the white Buffalos. There numbers of activities that tourist can engage in while in Kidepo Valley Nation Park from the two sections of the park, the Narus Valley with highest concentration of animals due to visibility of water throughout the year at Narus River and the best observation for games is Narus dam. The Narus valley is also endowed with over 500 bird species more especially on the river banks, some of the birds to be seen here are; Carmine, secretary bird, ostrich, Kori bustard, Abyssinian ground hornbill, yellow billed hornbill, Karamoja apalis, black breasted barbet, silver shrike, Nubian woodpecker, Vivacious bird, Hoopoe, scarlet chested sun bird, white bellied go away bird, singing bush lark and little Weaver to mention a few.
A female setting for a day meal, what a memorable safari?
And the Kidepo basin, this part of the park is mainly covered with montane topography and is rarely visited due to its far distance from the park headquarter at Apoka.
The park has arguably the most diverse fauna of any park in the country. It is particularly rich in predators, including lion, leopard and bat-eared fox, black-backed and side-striped jackal are both present. There are large herds of buffalo, twelve antelope species occur in the park. One hundred Uganda kob were transferred into the park (from Murchison Falls) in 2017 and there are plans to reintroduce white rhino in the future.
The park inhabits the big four games including herds of elephants, Buffalo grassing in the scenic savannahs leopards and lions on a special night game drive there chance to encounter them actively hunting accompanied by many other animals including tower of giraffes, herds of bushbuck, Uganda kobs, orib, zebras, warthogs, water bucks, Kudus, fox, hyena, aardwolf, Jackals, Jackson heart beast, eland, dik dik, ostrich, cheater, civet, hunting dog and very many great encounters.
Around are the indigenous interesting karamojongo people. It’s worth visiting these people, they are believed to be behind the time by the other of the people in Uganda. Besides being backward they cringed on their traditional beliefs like rejected other foreign religions in Uganda and insisted on their own Akuj god whom they believe gives them all the cattle they own. Visiting communities around Kidepo valley national park like Lurukul cultural community rewards with direct interaction and it’s an opening to explore the exotic practices and norms of the Karamojongo people, cultural entertainment like in traditional dances and the process of selecting a lover to marry.
Visiting the manyattas, the housing style of Karamojongos can have a camping overnight in the Manyatta testing their local beer will be an option to accompany while at the camp fire.
You love an adventure safari in a less crowded tourist destination, with no double kidepo valley is the best alternative for you
Read MoreBest 5 National Parks to Go Camping in Uganda
Camping is arguably the easiest and cheapest way of exploring the ‘’Pearl of Africa’’, especially the low earners and those who are not so financially stable. Uganda is a small but naturally a heavily gifted country with beauty, climate and above of all this; is its abundant wildlife. Below are the five best national parks in Uganda that are most ideal for you to go camping:
Kidepo Valley National Park
Kidepo is the most unique national park in Uganda and if you are indeed a true wildlife lover, just opt for this one. The Park has a varied wildlife more than any other Park in Uganda and it is referred to as the ‘’True African Wilderness’’ since it is a refuge to almost each and every African wildlife species, complemented with its magnificent and picturesque landscape which all give you a run for your money. You are guaranteed to view a wide range of wildlife in Kidepo such as; Lions, Elephants, Buffaloes, Nile Crocodiles, Hippos, Leopards, Giraffes, Jackson’s Hartebeests, and over 500 bird species, and many others.
Kidepo boasts a very well maintained camping site called ‘’Kakine Self-Catering Campsite’’, which is so close to Apoka Visitor Centre; the Park’s tourist centre. The campsite has no provision for meals and thus the travelers should move with their own food stuffs – the campsite has good water and firewood for cooking. The campsite offers a wilderness camping encounter for the camping travelers, hence what you need to do is to contact your tour operator earlier such that it organizes for you good camping equipment, like; dome tents, cutlery, stoves or gas cookers, mattress, and others.
Murchison Falls National Park
This is one of the best national parks to go camping while on a Uganda safari as it comprises of various adventurous things that you are guaranteed to explore and there are camping sites as well, where you will compose your own camp. The Park is locally known as Kabalega National Park and it is under the Murchison Falls Conservation Area (MFCA) – which comprises of the Kabalega Park and other two wildlife reserves, Karuma Falls and Bugungu reserves. The Park is a home to the Murchison falls found on the course of the great Nile and the falls attracts various wildlife species such as; hippos, the Nile Crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants and water bucks. When camping in this Park, you will enjoy several interesting activities such as; game drives, visiting the top of the Murchison falls, launch trips, hot air balloon safaris, nature walks, and birding. Visitors who will travel to Murchison Falls/Kabalega National Park will construct their camps in the Park’s various camping sites such as; Boomu Women’s Group Bandas or Shoebill Campsite.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Are you that kind of traveler who wants to go camping in various extraordinary national parks in Africa or you don’t have enough money to stay in the expensive luxurious accommodation in the Parks and you have decided to go camping? Queen Elizabeth National Park is a better Park to go camping and feel the true nature of Uganda and the African continent at large. Besides being cheap, camping offers a nice atmosphere, in terms of staying more close to the nature. The Park is the second largest national park in Uganda, after Murchison Falls National Park, and it is one of the most sought after destinations in Uganda. Camping is one of the most interesting experiences that you should not miss in the Park and there are different camping grounds in the Park, such as; Engiri Game Lodge and Camping Site, Kasenyi Safari Camp, Crater Campsite and Country Lodge, Kitandara Hippo Hill Camp, and Nyanzibiri Eco-community camp. Among the amazing things you are to enjoy during your camping in the Park, include; the unusual tree climbing lions and very many others that will offer you a great and memorable safari in Uganda and Africa at large.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forests National Park
This is one Park that you should go camping wherever you land to Africa. Bwindi is globally known for its inhabitants, the rare endangered mountain gorillas, which only exist in three African countries; Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo, and in four national parks. The only four refuges in the world for mountain gorillas are; Bwindi and Mgahinga Parks in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in Democratic Republic of Congo. Out of the four refuges of mountain gorillas, Bwindi is the most recommendable one to visit as the Park harbors almost half of the total number of mountain gorillas remaining in the world. You can therefore enjoy your gorilla expeditions in Bwindi while camping in order to save some money, as the gorilla safaris are somehow expensive since you have to buy a gorilla permit in order for you get involved in this lifetime experience of trekking the gorillas. However, the gorilla permit in Uganda is relatively cheaper, costing US$ 600, as compared to that of Rwanda which costs US$ 1500.
Therefore since camping is very cheap, you will have saved some money which you will have spent on the Park’s luxurious lodges and camps. The most ideal camping sites/grounds in Bwindi include; Buhoma Community Campsite and Bandas, Nshongi Campsite, Bwindi Forest Farm & Campsite, and Lake Kitandara Tented Camp, among others.
Kibale Forests National Park
Kibale, found in western Uganda, is also an ideal destination to go camping especially to the primate lovers. The Park protects several primate species more than any other protected area in Africa, of which the major primate species and attraction in the Park are the common chimpanzees. Chimpanzees have various interesting behaviors that you will enjoy during your camping experience in the Park and of course these primates (chimpanzees) share 98.7% of human DNA, hence you are guaranteed to experience some human behaviors/characteristics possessed by the chimpanzees. The best campsites in the Park include; campsite at Primate lodge, Frog Campsite & Lodge, campsite at Kibale Forest Camp, and Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve & Community Campsite.
Read MoreWHITE EARED KOB SIGHTED AT PIAN UPE GAME RESERVE
On Monday 27 May 28, 2019 there was a rare sighting of a male white Eared kob at Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, this was an amazing encounter as it had never happened here.
white male Eared kob sighted in Pian Upe
Pian Upe located in the northeastern Uganda and is habitat for rare sightings which include the recently sighted white male eared kobs, cheetahs, Roan Antelopes, Ostriches, Heart beast, zebras and other mammals. The wildlife reserve grants the best stunning scenic view of the Savannah landscape, best intact culture and viewing sun setting both morning rising and evening setting.
Pian Upe game reserve is managed by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). The reserve is one of the less visited tourism destination and is best recommended for travelers who would wish to spend their holiday in a less crowded adventurous tourism destinations.
The climate at the game reserve features a semiarid climate with only one rainy season throughout the year, the rainy season usually starts in month of Match to around June during this season the roads and drive tracks are impassable, grasses are tall makes it difficult to spot wild animals on a drive.
The best season to visit Pian Upe is from November to February during sunny seasons, during this period temperatures are high grasses are short and the wildlife reserve management at times carryout controlled bush burning making it easier to sight animals especially drawing water at the river bank. The reserve is fed by Girifi River from the southern boundary whose brown water feeds the wildlife inhabiting within the game reserve.
While at the Pian Upe game reserve there more several sightings of flora and fauna including. The main tree species in and around the reserve include the red acacia, desert date, bush willows, harrisonia, Abyssinica, and red spike thorns as well as shrubs such as butterfly pea and woolly caper bush.
The Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve is also composed of numerous mammal species like lions, elephants, black rhinos and giraffes also zebras and common elands. Oribi and impalas were recently relocated from Lake Mburo National Park broaden variability. There are also magnificent reptiles sights especially the rock pythons and puff adders as well as harmless water snakes. The biggest population of lizards that are found in this remarkable reserve is mainly the savanna monitors and the reserve also inhabits common agama and skinks, chameleons and geckos. Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve is another tremendous wildlife paradise that visitors must not miss out while in there wildlife safaris in Uganda.
There are openings to sight about 300 bird species including the karamoja apalis, kingfishers, starlings and shoe bill storks found in Lake Opeta, 50 kilometers away from the headquarters. There also Hartlaub’s Turaco, Eastern Bronze-napped Pigeon, Lemon Dove, Dusky Turtle Dove, African Hill Babbler, Alpine Chat, Black-throated Wattle-eye, Mountain Yellow Warbler, Thick-billed Honey guide and Grey Cuckoo-Shrike.
Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve is the biggest game reserve in Uganda and the 2nd biggest protected area next to Murchison falls national park, the wildlife reserve covers an area of 2043sqkm. The reserve is 338 km/h about 7/8 hours drive from Kampala capital and can easily be accessed using Sipi Kapchorwa the foothills of Mt. Elgon using Moroto road from Kampala through Mbale town. On my advice its better you make a combined adventure safari to Kidepo Valley National Park about 5 hours’ drive from Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve.
Using a local tour operators is a better alternative if you would wish for a wildlife safari adventure to Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve and 4X4 land cruiser suitable to camouflage the challenging roads especially during rainy seasons. You can contact the reserve management to know the best period to visit Pian Upe game reserve.
This game reserve covers districts of Nakapiripirti, Amudat, Bukedea, Kween, Moroto, Katakwi, Napak and Bulambuli and is boarded by Bokora Metheniko Wildlife Reserve in the north and stretches to the foot hills of Mt. Elgon in the southern direction.
The wildlife reserve was gazetted as the Debasien animal sanctuary by 1958, after some period the boundary of the reserve were threatened when the government established an agriculture project south of Girifi River. 1964 the threats to this reserve forced the government to extend northwards and was renamed Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve.
By 2003 there was proposal to regazett Pian Upe for fruits growing which was obstructed, and by then the government had plans of upgrading the reserve to a national park and there more processes of restocking with many animals like recent impalas from Lake Mburo National Park.
Sun raise at Pian Upe game reserve
The fabulous game reserve is composed of hot springs and is seen as an incredible destinations with mercury wells at Mount Kadam.
Community tours to the northern directions comes with nature walks experiences of viewing the Manyatta wood caving shops, cultural entertainments and visiting the Karamoja gold mining sites widen your documentation about the region.
With varieties of Uganda famous safaris including Gorilla tours, wildlife safaris, cultural safaris you can add Pian Upe on your Uganda safari list.
Don’t hesitate discovering one of the uncovered fabulous destinations in Uganda if looking forward experiencing the real African adventure safaris in the remote.
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Uganda Martyrs’ Antiquity
Before Uganda, there were un-united monarchies that always wriggled and battled each other to broaden their territories and were diverse in cultural beliefs. By early 1843 came the nonblack people, Arabs from the East African coast received at Wamala palace by then Ssekabaka Sunna ll king of Buganda kingdom which was the strongest kingdom then. The Arabs introduced Islamic and religions emerged on the land and the converted king Sunna II to Islamic.
Later by 1861 the first European explore John Hanning Speke came to Uganda and visited Ssekabaka Mutesa I king of Buganda, the king wrote a letter to queen Victoria of England inviting missionaries to Buganda. 1877 the group of Church Missionary Society CMS of Anglican arrived, followed the White Fathers from Roman Catholic Church in 1879. The two religions settled on hills of Rubaga hill for the White Fathers of the Catholic Church and Namirembe hill for Anglican Church Missionary Society who always struggled to win many converts on their respective side.
The influx of explores and missionaries initiated the integration of monarchies to form one united nation Uganda. 1880s started silent famous religious wars as they struggled for positions in the political affairs and many converts lost their lives in the process of these wars. By 1890s British sent Sir Gerald portal from Zanzibar coast to come and formalize the British protectorate ship in Uganda.
1884 Ssekabaka Mutesa I died and his son Ssekabaka Mwanga II succeeded him as 31st king of Buganda, religious tragedy started here were king Mwanga II never believed in any of the religions though this never stop religions which were growing at a faster rate. Most of the king’s pageboys had converted to different religions among the three especially Christianity and rose misunderstandings between the king and his pageboys.
The king wanted his people in the palace of Mengo to denounce their converted religions which never happened and left the king unhappy about it. By 1886 the King ordered his royal man Mukajjanga the chief executioner to kill every pageboy who couldn’t denounce Christianity with reasons that instead of serving him in the palace were busy with church always, the execution of believer took place at Namugongo the designated execution for Buganda kingdom during Mwanga’s reign.
Having suspected danger to happen to Uganda’s Christian community on 25th may 1886, Charles Lwanga the leader of Uganda’s Christian Community secretly baptized four catechisms at Munyonyo including Kizito, Gyavira Musoke Mayanja, Mbaga Tuzinde and Mugaga Lubowa. The very morning the king summoned all his court and separated Christians from the rest, the King said those who don’t pray stand by me and those who pray stand over there. He continued to ask those who pray whether they were Christians and they were intending to remain Christians and said yes, with strength and courage King Mwanga condemned them to death. They were imprisoned for a short while then bound to each other on twisted lops escorted by ruthless soldiers started their journey to Namugongo the execution site.
Uganda martyrs basilica Namugongo shrine
On 25th November 1885 Joseph Mukasa Balikuddembe who was the king majordomo and one of the leaders of Christian believers from the catholic community pioneered the execution at Nakivubo Kampala city center he was beheaded and burnt to ashes. Mukasa Balikuddembe accused Kabaka Mwanga why he ordered for the killing of an Anglican Bishop James Hannington who the king had was coming to Buganda through eastern and the king believed every person coming from the east was an enemy.
Though Balikuddembe was executed first at Nakivubo, however, Munyonyo is where the King Mwanga launched the execution of Christian believers and converts started here their pilgrim journey to Namugongo the execution site. At Munyonyo three were killed including Denies Ssebugwawo, Andrew Kagwa and Pantiano Ngondwe.
Morning of 27th may 1886 at mengo Athanasius Bazzekuketta volunteered to be executed at the foothills of Memgo palace current place Kisenyi. The same day at Old Kampala Mathias Mulumba on his way to Namugongo from Mengo, he refused to continue walking further and demanded for his execution here. The hands were cut off first, the skin was plead off from his back and legs were cut off, he was left with bleeding open vessels and later after three days Mulumba died.
Prisoners tied on neck and feet to another by cords and stocks, the martyrs moved over 10 miles to Namugongo. At Namugongo the martyrs were confined like a week before their execution, by that time executioners were preparing and collecting enough fire wood and rids for burning victims.
3rd June 1886 was when real executions took place, the martyrs were tied in rids. Ssenkole the guardian of the sacred fused and singled out Charles Lwanga to be the first victim of holocaust. Ssenkole was not allowed to be present at the actual scene of the large execution but in ritual practices had to select one of the victims and burn him apart from the others. At Namugongo 22 young boys were set on fire who kept praising and praying while burning in flames of fire, victims were made to arrange their own fire woods and rids and executioners tied one by one in try rids were they burned slowly to ashes.
Pope Frances visit of Namugongo martyrs museum
In total 45 younger believers we killed for the sake of faith 23 Anglicans and 22 catholic. At the place where Charles Lwanga was executed currently exits the iconic Basilica the Martyrs Shrine which Arch Bishop Emmanuel Nsubuga spearheaded its construction in preparation Pope John Paul VI visit in 1969 who launched the construction of the Shrine. On October 18th 1964 Pope Paul VI solemnly proclaimed the catholic martyrs as saints in St. Peters’ Basilica Vatican Rome. Every 3rd of June multitude of believers all over the world emerge to celebrate anniversary of the Holy Martyrs day at Namugongo Uganada.
The martyrs trails tours taking you around different site primarily initiates your gorilla tour or any other wildlife safari in Uganda. The martyrs trail include sites like Munyonyo, St. Balikkudembe Owino market, Matia Mulumba at Old Kampala and the great Namugongo Martyrs shrine and Martyrs Museum.
Mukajanja the Chief executioner
Tips for Planning a Family Holiday in Uganda
Spending time with your family is now days far beyond just sitting to relax and talk as it was in the old television shows. Did you know you can out the best from your family by taking a trip together?
A family trip is about the only time you can recreate the magic of television by visiting unique Places. So when school lets out, get time to think about such kind of a vacation. It doesn’t matter where you live, whether built up or not, your family needs to have some time away to relax, bond and have fun.
However, choosing your destination can be difficult at times, but by choosing a place that has many different activities for Mom, Dad, sister and brother, you can be sure to make everyone happy. Think of where you would like to go and decide it upon with the family. If it Africa, a number of destinations are awaiting to offer you the greatest adventure and one of them is Uganda.
Also known as the ‘Pearl of Africa’, taking a Uganda Safari in this small land locked ever green country that is located in the East African region can be a perfect place for those who are on holiday with children.
Traveling with the family can be hassle-free and loaded with fun and this can be possible if you’ve planned well. Here are a few tips you can use for an easy, stress-free travel with your family while in Uganda.
Plan with the entire family
Get each family member’s opinion on which places to go. Kids love it when they get involved. The planning may include making a short list of the places to visit. Ask each and every one a place they would like to visit or which things they would like to see and get the majority’s preference.
Viewing the rare tree Climbing Lions in Ishasha as a family would create unforgettable memories for the adventure.
If it is wildlife, then consider visiting national parks and activities that are permitted for children across all ages. Taking a game drive in either Murchison Falls national park to see some of the African Big Five including Elephants, Buffaloes and Lions or Queen Elizabeth National Park to see the rare tree climbing lions in the Ishasha sector would be fun-filled and adventurous to you all as a family.
Plan simple yet fun activities for the whole family to enjoy
Choose only activities that will see you enjoy as a family instead of those that will see you separated due to age restrictions or get some of you tired/ boring. Note that most family vacations require sacrificing the interests of the parents to satisfy the needs of the kids.
For instance, Mountain Gorilla and Chimpanzee Tracking that is only permitted for those above 15 years.
Assign a task to each member
Distribute tasks across Help each other especially when packing. Give each one a responsibility for everyone to be active in organizing the trip. The kids can have to check on the first-aid kit, the father to bring all bulky equipment’s and the mother to take charge preparing the food. This way, your load can be lessened and everyone would feel the importance of each one’s contribution.
Hire a Car to Use in Advance
For any number of the traveling family member, you can always get a suitable car to use. It is better if you make your reservation in time. This is easy via the internet with one of the many Car Rental Agencies in the Country.
This 9 – passenger Seater Toyota Hiace Safari Van is good for families that want to go for game drives in national parks
These offer a number of suitable 4X4 vehicles for families such as a Toyota Super Custom that carries up to 6 people, a van that carries up to 9 people among others. If you are to make your trip within built up centers such as towns, a 2WD Toyota Noah can also be good for a family.
Try to Travel light
Depending on a car you booked, if it is relatively small such as the Toyota Noah, you need to make you luggage a bit light since most of the space of your car would be for people. Pack only the essential things you need. Remember that traveling light doesn’t mean traveling incomplete.
Carry all important stuff you need to bring, carry with you a medicine kit for emergencies and more importantly, bring enough prescription drugs if any of the family members is on medication. Bring enough to last for the entire duration of the trip.
Don’t Forget the Camera
Bring in the fun by taking pictures and videos to document your trip. Take turns in using the camera, this way everyone will get a memorable shot taken. You can take the pictures and put them in a nice travel journal when you get home. This way you can enjoy the fun memories as often as you want.
Remember that the entire objective of a family trip is to have fun.
Summary
You all will love the natural surroundings, scenic views, adventure activities for the family as whole, great hospitality of the residents among others.
When it comes to accommodation, many hotels and lodges offer family room with children discounts policy which is good optional for family term.
Children’s attractions (3 years and above) in Uganda vary from sand and beach activities, cultural activities such as dancing, temple visits, and traditional Ugandan life style experiences; adventure activities such as rafting, cycling, horse rides as well as exploring the wildlife in the National Parks during a game drive and boat cruises among others.
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Quick Guide on Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest
Taking an option of doing Mountain Gorilla trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is great decision made which results into an ultimate adventure to narrate as a story to your fellow travelers when you meet up in other amazing destinations elsewhere.
This experiential rewarding activity done in Uganda usually involves meeting with the mostly wanted shy endangered ground dwelling herbivores, Mountain Gorillas in the Jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
It’s not that most travelers just like visiting Uganda because it’s the only destination available but rather it’s due to some major attracting factors that include; ease of accessibility, wide range of different Wild life species, different other exciting attractions, favorable climatic conditions, stable financial status, good service providers characterized, flexibility and stable security among others.
Looking forward for a Gorilla Safari in Uganda on your African Safari vacation, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the best recommended and fascinating Park to go for variety of these apes.
It is located in the South Western part of Uganda lieing along Uganda’s border with Democratic Republic of Congo not very from Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Mother Mountain Gorilla with her Infant
It’s very easy to drive from the Buhoma sector side of Bwindi and access Queen Elizabeth National Park via the Ishasha sector route. Bwindi presents thick impenetrable tropical rainforest, bogs, shrubs and swampy areas which provide good habitat to its various species.
Popularly known for hosting variety of Gorilla species, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has over eighteen Gorilla families habituated for trekking experience.
These families are grouped in Bwindi’s four sectors including Buhoma sector, Ruhija, Rushaga and Nkuringo sector with each sector inhabiting more than two Gorilla families.
How to get there.
Being located in the South western part of Uganda, the best route of reaching this Park from Kampala is Kampala- Masaka- Mbarara highway including enroute stop over at the equator in Kayabwe before reaching Masaka town for some brief explanation about the equator, photographs and snacks.
Then continue with the journey using suitable 4×4 wheel drive Safari jeep, lunch is usually provided enroute in Mbarara town.
It takes about 9-10 hours for the drive from Kampala up to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in the South Western part of Uganda depending on speed used and traffic along the way plus enroute stop overs associated.
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi.
This usually involves meeting with the shy endangered ground dwelling herbivores Mountain Gorillas in the Jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, this amazing experience is usually started in the morning after a briefing conducted at the Park offices or starting point to highlight about how to behave while in the Jungle, along the way and in presence of these apes.
Silver back Gorilla in Bwindi Forest
After briefing a park ranger guide and armed officers are assigned to a group of eight trekkers for the journey heading to the Jungle in search of these apes for interaction, Park ranger usually inquire from Gorilla trackers via radio calls about the exact location of these apes in the Jungles.
Gorilla trackers are usually the first to go early in the morning to exactly locate where these apes spent their last night.
After locating these apes in the Jungles, you are allowed to stay in their presence for only one hour while seeing them playing, feeding, laughing plus taking photos and videos of them provided you are not using a flush camera.
After one hour session with the Gorillas, next step is vacating the place back to Park offices or starting point for Gorilla trekking certificate award, its advised that when heading for the Gorilla trek you come along with your packed food for eating while in the Jungle because most of the times lunch time reaches when Gorilla trackers are still in the Jungle being unable to come back for lunch.
Gorilla trekking requires a permit and this permit in Uganda costs $600 USD per person usually booked in advance before your trekking dates such that it’s processed in time.
Besides Gorilla trekking what else?
You can explore the Batwa Pygmies during a Cultural visit in Bwindi Forest
While in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you can also do bird watching, visit the Batwa people in their local communities and more.
Read MoreSeven Top Tips to Save on Online Car Rental Booking in Uganda
Every country has different regulations governing car rentals and the cost of renting a car vary from one country to another. Uganda is a hub of so many Car rental agencies on internet offering excellent E-Services at different prices depending on the type of car, model, Purpose, destination and duration of your trip.
Before renting a car there different things you have to look through that can help you minimize the costs of renting a car. Below are verified tips to economically book a self-drive vehicle in Uganda.
Look for comparison before you reserve
There many rental agencies online waiting for your inquirer, you can inquire from a number of them to get the best fair hire company after comparing their rates according to your provision need. Ensure you look at the collision damage waiver, unlimited mileage, road assistance and approve that they are all included in their car hire package.
Search for rental discounts
There are discount that will attract your negotiation power, but this may come if you are to spend some reasonable days with the vehicle. So it’s better to know if there is any car rental company that can offer on discount. There also always promotions put up on the internet for car rentals in terms of discount codes and coupon, look for them, it might be your lucky day and rent a car in Uganda at a reduced price.
Book in advance
Booking a vehicle earlier creates time to negotiate with different car hire companies to get a better car at reduced price because you have time to look for a discount from different car rental agencies.
Most car hire companies use an advantage of desperate rental car pursuers who may be inexperienced about car rental services. This may happen when you badly looking for a car at that time, so the car provider takes the opportunity to charge you highly because of you urgency to have the vehicle. To avoid desperate moments create time to book a vehicle you need before your time of use. Booking in advance also creates space to know and including all the specifics and extras you may need on your trip.
4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser comfortable for African Safari
Get cleared of hidden fees!
Booking online brings forward details of car hire services and the costs. Through the interactions online with a car hire company you know the inclusive in the car rental package. This helps you to now the reals packages of services to receive from car rental agency than approaching them at their working premises to hire a vehicle which may cause provision of inappropriate rental services resulting into regrets.
Convenient and Time saving
Online car rental booking is very time saving and convenient, while booking you visit a number of rental companies to inquire about their ratings. In some cases the clients tends go with companies that in reliable in responding, this approves from the quick responses from the car hire company that they can provide immediate road assistance while using their services. Booking online can be done anytime anywhere on your computer or your phone at your home, on your journey or in your office.
Insurance coverage.
Think about car rental insurance like car comprehensive insurance, life insurance are they covered and collision damage waivers, buying rental full protection insurance before your trip can a save your dollars, it’s worth doing. Care rental agencies in Uganda all have car comprehensive cover but don’t offer trip coverage or life insurance its all about the client to buy their insurance covers.
Validity
Online booking earns first hand information on how to get travel document while in the country. For foreign drivers who would hope for a self drive in Uganda should possess a valid international driving permit that should be at hand whenever you are driving to avoid traffic police interventions .
Booking online comes with benefits as listed above and it’s a global trend booking in advance. It provide platform to interact with service providers and make full list of all you may need on your car rental package.
Read MoreELEVATING THE BATWA PEOPLE LIVELIHOODS
Batwa are indigenous people also known as the forest pygmies who originally lived in Mgahinga and Bwindi rain-forests. After God created the lot blessed them with the shortest statured height and gifted them with their pride rain-forests where they survived as wild hunters until Mgahinga and Bwindi were gazetted into a national park. Batwa are alleged to be the oldest indigenous lived in Uganda before the Bantu and Nilotic arrived 4000 years ago.
Batwa are approximately 88,000 in number problems of landless, no income, illiteracy and poor health are frustration. Though Uganda has ratified in the international convention for recognition little effort had featured for government to start program to eliminate such. However, NGOs and cultural activist have done a lot to ensure uplifting of the voiceless to attract the government intervention. In 2011 with the support of civil society organization like Minority Rights Group International through United Organization for Batwa Development Uganda (UOBDU) has helped to initiate education to eliminate illiteracy and involving them in different developmental programs.
In 1991, Batwa people were evicted from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National parks and received no compensation. The government of Uganda through Uganda Wildlife Authority and United Organization for Batwa Development (UOBDU) started an initiative aimed at helping them to earn income to enable them meet their basic needs. The Batwa tourism trail product was developed to diversify tourism activities in two Parks and improving their livelihood, the trail transforms Batwa people with skills, exposure and are able to earn them income through the handcrafts they make. UOBDU is now trying hard to guarantee that these people fully participate in the initiative planning, implementing and evaluation of different programs to eliminate challenges that are pursuing them.
Did the conservation of Mountain Gorillas turned into conservation of Batwa? Definitely due to their little number and likely extinction, it raised concerns to conserve the beautiful culture of these forest people. As constitution demands for any indigenous tribe having a right to exist, this turned out when the two forest where turned into national parks to protect and conserving the Mountain Gorillas. “Without Gorilla conservation there is no Batwa protection”.
Batwa tourism trails is a gentle hike in the slopes and peaks that takes about 5/6 hours, this brands the Batwa part in management, conserving and UWA gives the community 30% of the revenue from park revenue. The community owns the initiatives to take tourist around to comprehend life in the forest and demonstrating their life experiences of hunting, gathering, fire making and dances. UWA has engaged the Batwa people directly in conservation by employing them as potters to escort tourists on a gorilla trekking walk where they earn directly from the tourists, they do this by assisting clients carry their backpackers, push them where they need a push, pull them and also providing local ambulance service tourists where they feel cannot continue with the trek, they carry them back to the starting point. The project is a milestone in providing jobs for the locals still earning them income to improve their standards of living.
Community initiative for conservation were introduced to contribute in nature conservation through mobilization and sustainable agriculture like mushroom cultivation to reform poachers, youth, women and Batwa at large. The project of bee keeping in Batwa communities with over 100 bee hives and over 1,000,000 bees has help to pollinate trillions of plants which has facilitated in maintenance of biodiversity of flora in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park which is home to over half a population of world’s Mountain Gorillas.
Batwa Homestead inside Bwindi Impenetrable rain-forest
Community Initiative for Biodiversity Conservation (CIBIC) presented a pro-poor tourism activity in Bwindi through a successful relationship between local producers, tourism lodge owners and tour agencies. The initiative focuses on supplying food for tourists from local farmers. Currently, about 70% of total food served to tourists comes from locals around these protected areas.
However, the Batwa dream remains going back in their previous ancestral forest to co-exist with Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable national park and Mgahinga Gorilla national park. But every now and then the dream is vanishing away due to continuing government program to resettle them permanently out of the gorilla forests.
Once forgotten people, the government through its organ UWA handed over 7.5 acres of land worthy 180 million Uganda shillings to a group of 35 people in the community around Mgahinga Gorilla National Park who are working with UWA to enhance tourism. On (April 26, 2019) the Minister of Tourism and Wildlife Antiquities Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu handed over the land of two pieces and said, “The purchase of the land for the Batwa is the beginning of the government interventions to address challenges of Batwa that have been exerting pressure on the park and its resources”. He paid tributes to all partners including Bwindi and Mgahinga conservation trust who over the years invested heavily to improve the welfare of Batwa including the acquisition of this land.
Kamuntu farther said the existence of the protected area comes along with projects that helps in improving the livelihood of the community. Projects such as constructions, electricity, water and road extensions to the park and surrounding areas. The executive director of UWA Sam Mwandha said the beneficiary have been working together with UWA in giving a memorable experience such Gorilla tours to tourist in the park and to the communities around the parks who have been facing with challenges of inadequate land for settlement and cultivation.
In the same way traveling to any of the two parks is a milestone everyone can contribute to elevate lives of Batwa people, visiting their communities to comprehend and appreciate their cultural settings and practices doesn’t only stops there but it earns them with a living. Gorilla Hub Tours is our pleasure to reach every partner and life changer to such people who can participate in uplifting their lives, through our team of experts inquire now for your gorilla trekking trip and encounter the Batwa pygmy forest hunter.
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Hitchhiking in Uganda
Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa crossed by the equator. It borders Kenya in the East, Tanzania in the South, Rwanda in the Southwest, DR Congo in the West and South Sudan in the North.
Uganda the pearl of Africa is a land of diverse wildlife, landscapes, culture and people. Reasons to consider hitchhiking in Uganda are the friendly and hospitable people, peace and security and endless activities to do such as hiking, wildlife safaris, nature walks, mountain biking, horseback riding, white water rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping and much more.
Before covering what you need to know about hitchhiking in Uganda, it’s important to understand what hitchhiking means.
Hitchhiking is Uganda is not common among foreign tourists but popular with local people. The best way for most visitors to get around is with pre-booked private tour safari which is expensive for hitchhiking and it’s the same as car hire and rentals. For local people, public transportation by buses and matatus (taxis) is the widely used means to get around. If you were to use public transport, you must pay depending on the distance traveled; public cars don’t offer free rides.
For hitchhikers, the best way to hitchhike around Uganda would be to use trucks, pick-ups, sometimes private cars and NGO vehicles.
Generally hitchhiking in Uganda is possible but it can sometimes be difficult to get a free ride or else you have to pay a small amount of money depending on the destination you are heading to.
Kampala is the capital city located 37 km from Entebbe international airport, the main gateway to Uganda. These are the major hubs for most travelers to begin from and travel to other parts of the country. In Kampala city there are many vehicles since it’s the hub for public transportation and most people own cars. Attractions and destination within and near Kampala are easy and convenient to reach whether you get a free ride or not, the fares are affordable. For instance popular destinations like source of River Nile in Jinja, Sipi falls, Sezibwa falls, Mabira forest reserve, all are situated in eastern Uganda and some a short drive from Kampala. Going to these popular sites, you will end paying and not hitchhiking.
However if you are going up country destinations, it’s possible to get a ride. The best way is to look for truck parking and loading stations and ask for politely to drivers.
Major routes from Kampala to up country destinations
From Kampala or Entebbe, visitors can get almost to any part of the country. There are four major routes from Kampala leading to other important towns around the country.
The most popular route from Kampala goes to the west and further southwest. major towns like include Mbarara, Kasese and Fort portal which are near Kibale forest and Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kabale and Kisoro town in southwest near Bwindi and Mgahinga.
The other route is the one going to Eastern Uganda where you find major towns like Jinja at source of the source of the Nile which offers activities like rafting, horseback riding, biking, boat riding. The other town in the Far East is Mbale town at the foothills of Mount Elgon National Park.
Tips for hitchhiking in Uganda
Another great way to hitchhike is to be around Entebbe airport where safari guides pick up their tourists so that you take chance for a ride. That is very common at other destinations. Guides offer free riders and understand hitchhikers than any other person. For instance, most tourists stop at the equator monument which is about 1 and half hour drive from Kampala. It’s one of the best stations you hope to take advantage and ask out driver who stops there for a few minutes.
The other way is to find out from the NGO’s and where they are located such as Red Cross, UN base in Entebbe. These agencies own strong hard top land cruisers and are usually traveling up country for their humanitarian related work. However note that drivers of these agencies are not allowed to use vehicles to carry people. But the good thing is that if you are honest and clear identify yourself as a backpacker or hitchhiker, then a free ride you have high chances to get for free.
Major cities like Kampala, Entebbe, Mbale, Kabale are great places to begin hitchhiking than in rural areas.
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5 Reasons Why Uganda is a Backpacker’s Paradise
Uganda is one of the ultimate destination for backpackers! Attracting thousands of backpackers every year, Uganda is one of the best destinations for budget travels. Get ready for some off the beaten track gorilla trek in Bwindi, thrill seeking adventures in the wild forests and little-explored gems. Of course, there are some savanna national parks where you can enjoy a traditional safari! Here are some of the top reasons as to why Uganda is the ultimate destination for backpacker travel;
Climate
Uganda is immersed in perfect good climate that makes safaris possible all year round. The country has two seasons; dry season and wet season. Both seasons make it possible to explore Uganda all year round.
Unique Wildlife
Uganda is supplemented with undulating wildlife species. From the rare mountain gorillas to the wild chimpanzees of Kibale Forest, Uganda has interesting flora and fauna.
Hospitable People
The people in Uganda are friendly and welcoming to each and every one despite the race.
Budget Destination
Uganda is one of the interesting destination pack backers enjoying the safari to the fullest with the possible minimum budget.
Cheap Accommodation
Uganda attracts people of all kinds of life style, there are lots of back packer hostels and accommodation that offer good customer services to the clients. Usually there is also an arrangement of the sort to tour with in and around Kampala’s night life .It’s a good idea to stay in the city to enjoy the nightlife, before embarking on another tour expedition.
Safety
Most back packer travelers are high risk takers who go extra mile to explore the hidden treasures, one of the reason that make it a safe back packer destination is the safety all around the country. Security is tight for both traveler and the locals that make it easier to visit and explore the country.
Cheap means of Transport
Less than 1$ you will be able to travel about 4O kms in a public means, transport is cheap in Uganda and can easily connect well to the desired destinations, challenge is up country where most of the hidden treasure is. Available means of transport in the city include, special hire taxis, bodabodas the quickest means of transport especially during the rush hour when everyone is stuck in traffic jam.
Affordable Touristic Activities
The country has a blessing of abundant tour features that come affordable for everyone, name it from game drives among its four savanna national parks, and launch cruises, meeting the indigenous local people. This all can take place from a single destination. Not forgetting meeting one of the endangered world specie mountain gorillas in Bwindi national park and Mgahinga national park at a cheaper affordable price compared to the neighboring country Rwanda.
While backing in Uganda, there is no need to worry about food from the big malls street food is the way to go. In Uganda, you’ll find grilled chicken, kebabs on every street corner. The most popular street snack is a Rolex which is made of a rolled fried egg in a chapatti with a tomato-onion-paprika. It’s cheap and affordable and you find it cost saving.
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Refund Policies & Damage Compensation on Self Drive Car Rentals in Uganda
Every business has its own Policies when it comes to agreements between two or more parties and so Car Rentals in Uganda. Car Rental in Uganda is among the most popular online businesses in the country though some times faces setbacks due to lack of proper understanding of the Agreements and Policies mostly those regarding Insurance, Refund and Damage Compensation.
This results into either parties (Car Hire Agency and the client ) making unnecessary losses, as well as Bad Reviews to the Agency. This article is specifically to highlight these major issues that some times hinder the success of the business of Car Rental in Uganda.
Insurance and Damage Compensation
The Insurance section is the most confusing part in Car Rental Agreements. Most of the Cars offered on Self drive basis to hirers are comprehensively insured. This means that the Vehicle is covered in Case of any kind accident be it caused by Fire or something else.
However, the comprehensive Insurance doesn’t apply/ cover to;
- Damages caused to the Car beyond 7pm, the reason why most of the Agreements prohibit the Hirer from driving at night or very early in the morning when the skies are not clear i.e before 6:30am.
- The life of the People in the Car. Hirers are always advised to come with their Life Insurance Policies.
- Damage to the tyres. In case of a flat tyre, some Agencies need the client to pay full amount of the tyre while others demand for a compensation of half the amount.
Meanwhile, there are areas where client is 100% responsible for damages on the car and these include;
Single Vehicle Accidents/ Rollover
- 1 Driving in excess of speed limits is the major cause for single vehicle accidents which call for huge fines on the side of clients. For-instance, any kind of rollover caused by a client calls in a fine of US$1000 USD for small vehicles such as a Rav4, Toyota Corollas, Premios among others. Bigger vehicles such as Land Cruisers for this case are fined $1500. This fine is used for towing services to transport the vehicle from where it involved in an accident to Kampala where Good Garages are found but not repair. The comprehensive Insurance only covers the Car repair part therefore clients are always advised to drive at a speed limit- 50Km/hr in Towns and 80 km/hr. on highways.
- For this case of Single Vehicle Accidents, to limit more fines, the client is entitled to get police Report and make Police Statement since it is what most company insurance policies base on to compensate. When the client does not get this letter, he/ she meets all the expenses of repairing the Vehicle.
- Clients who have involved in a single vehicle accident are assigned a driver (a must) to offer chauffeur services for the rest of the rental period. Here, the Clients have to meet between the driver fees that are about $30 to $40 per day.
Off-Track Driving
- Driving on restricted roads / areas like off- tracking in Uganda National Park calls for a $150 fine to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). This is fully paid by the client.
- Other areas where the client is fully liable to the damages on the Car include damages to the vehicle caused by careless, willful or reckless driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, use of fuel from restricted petrol stations and damages to the under-body of the vehicle. Therefore Clients are always advised to drive with a lot of care during weather conditions like rainy season and in muddy areas.
Mechanical Repairs and Refund
Some times, Vehicles can get mechanical breakdowns during the rental period. For this case, well established Car Rental Agencies always offer roadside assistance using one of their nearby net-worked mechanics to make sure that the Vehicle gets back on the road in time.
You just need to inform Agency officials so they assign you a mechanic for help. Some times clients pay the mechanic and this amount is refunded by the Company/ Agency. However, the amount to pay the mechanic should first be agreed upon with the Agency official since some take advantages of Foreign clients to impose kinda much more charges than supposed to be.
Clients for Long rental periods are always advised to make full service to the Vehicle every after 4 weeks of usage and this always between $20 to $40. This amount is also refundable to clients as it is the case to the replacement of simple parts of the vehicle that appear to have got faulty or damaged during the rental period such as faulty headlamps, battery, Brakes, Clutch among others.
What to Do In Case of a Vehicle Breakdown.
Before renting a vehicle, you need to first get detailed information about what to do in case of accidents, Vehicle break down among others. You can always get first hand information about such by reading through Frequently Asked Questions about Car Hire In Uganda that you can always find online.
- If the Vehicle is involved in an accident, is damaged, breaks down or requires repair regardless of cause, the Client/ Hirer must notify the Operator of the full circumstances immediately. He must not arrange or undertake any repairs or leave the scene of accident before police inspection or without the Operator’s authority.
- If the vehicle requires repair or replacement, the rental agency arranges repairs to the vehicle or arrange a replacement vehicle within a reasonable time frame( 24Hours), provided that the operator will not be required to repair or replace the vehicle if it was damaged while being operated in a manner which breaches the earlier agreement
- In case of mechanical breakdown, most rental agencies provide replacement of the car and are responsible for the fuel to drop the replacement car and the client provide the fuel to return the broken-down car.
Great Encounters On An Amazing Uganda safari
Found in the East Africa and one of the few countries that is crossed by the equator line, this describes Uganda. Characterized by tropical rain forests, moderate temperatures, lakes and rivers this makes her having the best temperatures in the world. After having confirmed your holiday, vacation, or honey moon need, you hope for the best of Uganda safari, assuring you the country is one of the best destination for individual traveler, couple, family or group visit. With a number of visitor interests, the country is endowed with beautiful scenery for both flora and fauna, the landscape and culture without compromise you are assured of the best experience of its kind.
After confirming your tailor made trip plan (travel itinerary) while descending at Entebbe Airport your will appreciate the beauty of the so called pearl of Africa. Variety of travel trails and tourist destinations at your disposal, you can choose to explore the beauty 0f the Capital Kampala on your first day, cultural, religious, and visiting the local markets. The tour may also include Gadhafi Mosque the biggest mosque in East Africa and the 2nd biggest in Africa on its high tower you’re able to view the whole Kampala city and its surroundings, other interesting sites to visit include Namirembe and Rubaga cathedrals, Namugongo Martyrs shrine, the Uganda museum, Bahai temple one of its kind in Africa and the great Buganda kingdom the most powerful kingdom in east Africa. The first time experience of the Kampala city tour is very rewarding.
The famous Gaddafi mosque in the middle of Kampala city
Among your adventure list is the beautiful water falls that offer nice views to relax one’s mind, spectacular waterfalls such as Sezibwa falls about 37km away from the city center, this rivers is believed having been born like any other human being, actually it’s a twin and the other twin brother is Mubeya and is also a river flowing eastwards while Sezibwa flows northwards. the falls rewards you with the best cool and silent lonely environment accompanied by a number of bird species 120 including weaver birds, cooks, forest birds, red-chested cuckoo, snake eagles, sunbirds, cormorants, kingfisher an warblers flying on top of tall trees. Griffin falls within Mabira eco forest good where you can do zip lining. Then continue to Jinja for Itanda falls on the historical Nile River which offer opportune to have the most adventurous activates of bungee jumping, white water rafting and kayaking on white rapid waters.
The amazing Sipi falls on the foot hills of Mt. Elgon, in 3 phases Sipi falls are hiked one by one in the wildness and are distanced from one to another, the phases ranges from 1600 to 1900m above sea level. The spectacular rocky Aruu falls in Pader district northern part of Uganda, are beautiful and have the best view for photographs. The mighty Murchison falls on river Nile the most powerful falls in the world and the falls are rewarding for viewing a number of wildlife while on a boat cruise and by hiking to view its counterpart the Uhuru falls separating on pouring and joining back on falling. The Kisizi falls in Rukungiri which are viewed on suspended bridge in the middle of tall trees, Amabere Ganyin a’mwiru fall in fort Portal are very historical for Bunyoro Kitara dynasty among others. The variety of these water falls one of them can accompany any of your safari package.
Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking in Africa
Spectacular trekking of gorillas in Uganda tops up all safari experience in Africa, this popular and exceptional adventure activity at both Bwindi impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National parks enables you encounter the few of the remaining great mountain gorillas. Bwindi alone is home to over 480 mountain gorillas and that over half of the world’s total population. Trekking gorillas you need to book trekking permit at least three month before the trekking date because the activity is on the high demand, on your trekking date you supposed to report on the park headquarter by 8:00hours in Uganda and in Rwanda 7:30 hours for briefing about the trekking etiquette, after being assigned a group/family will join a group of other seven member to make a total of 8 , in company of an armed ranger guide you will enter the Eco-forest with your packed lunch, at least two litters of water and a rain court to search for the beautiful gentle giants. The trekking may take between 30 minutes to 8 hours following their foot prints, the activity is hectic but once you find them all the difficult you have gone through will be forgotten. Looking eye to you with the mountain gorillas is an experience of a life time, you will realize how close mountain gorillas are to human, remember they share 98% of human DNA. You will be allowed strictly an hour in their presence and keep a distance of 7 meters. You will watch the young ones playing in tree branches
Gorilla trekking in Uganda also can be done to Mgahinga Gorilla National park where silver meets with gold, meaning there are chances of encountering the rare golden monkeys. Only in Uganda where you can do double gorilla trek in two different forest parks. Chimpanzees trekking in Kibale forest national park the only park where you encounter with 13 different primate species including the baboons, Mangebay, red colobus, vervet monkey, red tailed monkey, coppery tailed white nosed monkey, bush babies, eastern black and white colobus, L’Hoests, pottos, and the incredible chimpanzees. Other are where you can track chimpanzee are Kyambura gorge in Queen Elizabeth national park, Budongo forest reserve and Kalinzu forest reserve.
Do Gorillas climb trees? the giant sliver back attempting to climb a tree.
Birding
Go on an amazing birding safari through the varied of Uganda with swamps, lakes, rivers, forests, savannahs and mountains, these shelter 1031 bird species recorded of which 58 are said to be accidental and 19 are uncertain. Kampala is where your birding experience starts at the Kabaka’s Lake the largest manmade lake in east and central Africa which is a home to a number of bird species which include Grey Crowned Crested Crane, Open-billed Stork, Several Species of Egret, Sacred Ibis, Glossy Ibis, Black-headed Herons and Grey Herons and many birding species can be ecounted. Also the lake is home to Yellow-billed Stork and Marabou Stork; Long-tailed cormorants, also some forested sand beaches in Kampala for example Botanical garden beaches in Entebbe also enhances the experience, the Mengo palace the official palace of Buganda kingdom it’s a rewarding spot for birders, Mabamba bey wetland among others in kamala.
Other birding spots of Uganda that are rewarding they include Queen Elizabeth national park in the western region of Uganda with over 600 bird species which include papyrus canary, papyrus canary, yellow-billed stork, martial eagle, gabon among other, Murchison falls national park with 450 bird species, Semulii national park with 441 bird species, Kibale forest national park 375bird species, Bwindi impenetrable national park south west and Budongo forest reserves in the north west with 350 bird species, Lake Mburo national park with 315 bird species, Mugahinga forest national park and Mt. Rwenzori national park with 180 and 177 bird species respectively. All these are rewarding birding spot where one can view over 1000 bird species.
Stupendous game drives
On a fabulous game drive, you encounter a number of wildlife and beautiful sceneries to give one a real adventure experience of the pearl of Africa. Viewing the unending savannah landscape that avails the opportunity of watching the big five include the Elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, and rhinos. While driving around in your open roof tour vehicle high concentration of wild life for example herds of antelopes, school of hippopotamus, zebras, Rothschild giraffes, warthogs, wild pigs, ostrich and cheetahs. The drive can take one about 3 hours and interactions with natural beauty continues. Uganda safari is among the few destinations in Africa where you encounter the rare tree climbing lions in ishasha south of Queen Elizabeth national park, viewing different wildlife it’s an amazing experience in kidepo valley national the only adventurous park where cheetahs are found.
A tower of giraffes at the delta in Murchison falls national park.
Safaris in Uganda are full of incredible adventures which also include boat launch in beautiful rivers and lakes in any of the parks, in Murchison falls the boat cruise leads you on viewing the most powerful water falls in the world and cruising also leads to the hippo pool the largest world hippopotamus population in Murchison falls and Queen Elizabeth national parks, and sport fishing on a special arrangements an interesting one.
Read MoreThe Magical and Adventurous Pearl of Africa
All days the best destination never to miss when planning a travel package. Uganda is a landlocked East African country surrounded by five countries, South Sudan in the north, Kenya in the east, Tanzania in the south, Rwanda from south west and DR Congo in the west. The country is seated on the total area of 241,551km2 and land area 200,523km2 with water covering the area of 41,028km2.
Politically Uganda is known as the land of his excellence, president for life, field marshal, Al haji, doctor, Idi Amin Dada, VC, DSO,MC, Lord of all the beast of the Earth and fishes of the sea and the conqueror of the British Empire in Africa in general and Uganda in particular, who reigned the country for roughly 8 years. But in general Uganda has only got eight (8) since independence on a memorable day 9th October 1962 from Britain the colonial master. The current president HE. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni whose liberation war combated down all political unrest in the country since 1986 and improved on the security which makes the country free and ready for visitors from all corners of the world.
Right away after reaching the country through Entebbe airport, hospitality and freshness of the cool environment blows you mind and start thinking of a new planet. The adventurous magical box contains choices of your adventures as per your reservation is awaiting, entering Kampala start thinking of the seven hill that form the capital which include, Nakasero hill the administrative hill of Uganda, Makerere hill the ivory tower of education in east and central Africa, old kampala hill with the biggest mosque in east African and sight viewing of the whole capital and surrounding areas to the city, Namirembe hill to see the first cathedral in Uganda and the history of the Anglican church, Rubaga hill for the history and the cathedral of the catholic church and in total there 21 hills in kampala .
The famous Kampala City Old Taxi Park
While in Kampala you have a variety of travel trails which offer different experiences respectively. The martyrs trail starting right from Rubaga cathedral to Munyonyo coming buck to down town St. Balikuddembe market (Owino), St. Matia mulumba church at old Kampala to Namugongo martyrs shrine and museum where finally the execution of martyrs took place 3rd June 1886. Buganda trail which takes you to discover the origin and current situation of the largest kingdom in east Africa. The trail may have started from Walumbe tanda in Mityana which is 69km from Kampala but this helps you know the first Muganda and where the spirit of death originate from, continue back to Buddo Nagalabi where kings of Buganda are coroneted from, Wamala tombs where first nonblack persons meet King Suuna as early as 1844 and civilization in Uganda started from here, continue to Kasubi tombs a UNSCO heritage site but currently the site is out of boundary to tourist its under reconstruction after its burning in 2010, but can proceed to Mengo palace the official palace for the prominate kingdom and here you won’t miss out Amin’s torture chambers where over 20,000 innocent people where tortured and killed, Bulange royal building the administrative and parliamentary block for the kingdom through the royal mile with different totem monuments to form the full experience of the kingdom. Having these trail experience it’s not commonly done by many tour companies.
There are many other destinations that you can encounter while in Kampala which include Uganda museum holding the history of Uganda, kabaka’s Lake the largest manmade lake in east and central Africa, Uganda wild life education center where your primary adventure starts from as you interact with lions, chimpanzee, leopard, birds and many more just in one center, Ngamba island chimpanzee sanctuary and many sand beaches along the shores of lake Victoria.
Magical Uganda, Winston Churchill explained “for magnificence, for variety of forms and color, the profusion of brilliant life, flora and fauna, Uganda is the pearl of Africa”. The true source of the African adventure holds all components of a travel safari right from the rise of the sunlight to its set down. In 2017 Rough Guides ranked Uganda among the 13 best tourist destinations in the world.
Due to Uganda’s biodiversity there a number of adventurous activities you can participate in while on your holiday visit to this pearl of Africa
Gorilla tracking
Silverback Mountain gorilla leader
Gorilla tracking is no doubt the highlight of all African safaris, this activity is rated as the top most adventure activity in the world as it gives one an experience of a lifetime. However due to the fact that these gentle giants being the most endangered species in the world the activity is highly regulated, only a group of eight visitors allowed to visit a single family of mountain gorillas per day. Gorilla tours done in Bwindi impenetrable national park and Mugahinga forest national park where silver meets gold, the silverback gorilla that lives harmoniously with the Albertine endemic primates the golden monkeys. It’s only in Uganda where you can double trek mountain gorillas in two different forest parks.
Mountaineering
Mountain climbing can be done at Mt. Rwenzori to the margarita peak, its ranges reaches up to 5,109m high and it’s the 3rd tallest mountain in east African and a UNESCO site also described as the mountain of the moon and its ranges are higher than that of the Alps. And also at Mt. Elgon is the 4th tallest in east Africa standing at 4,321m high and hikers have to reach the wagagai peak, sipi falls also gives the best hiking experience as the hikers have to reach three falls for the full experience.
Chimp trekking
Chimpanzee trekking for especial experience in kibale forest national park, I can call it the home of primates and only here where you can find 13 different primate species which include the red tailed monkey, black and white Colobus, olive baboons, vervet monkeys, blue monkey, mangabey, bushbabbis, chimpanzee. Chimpanzee trekking can be done also in budongo forest reserve while on Murchison fall tour. Like gorilla also trekking chimpanzee permits are booked in advance.
Game drive
Adventurous game drives are done while seated jeep or safari vehicle driving along the park viewing variety of different Uganda wildlife such as big five like lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo other animals may include variety of antelope species, jackals, hyenas, and variety of bird species including crested crane, ground hornbill, great blue turaco, and insects like dragon flies, butter flies. With special arrangement, a night game drive at Lake Mburo national park is so rewarding as it can offer one more chances of viewing big cats like a leopard actively hunting,
At Queen Elizabeth and Murchison falls national parks have the most rewarding game drive where you have the chances of encountering the big five, for bird watchers it’s a birding paradise with over 600 bird species recorded in Queen Elizabeth national park only. Kidepo valley national park in northern part is where you have magical encounters such as very large herds of buffalos in Africa. Other rewarding game drives are done semuliki national park, ishasha sector south of Queen Elizabeth one of the few places in the world where you find tree climbing lion roaming in tree branches.
Magnificent Game Drive Safaris in Uganda National Park
Balloon safari
In Murchison and queen Elizabeth can enjoy an Ariel view of the pearl as you can view flora and fauna in the silent atmosphere.
White water rafting
White water rafting this psychologically reconstruct your mind from the lazy way of having leisure, at the rapid rough waters which won’t let your mind relaxing, at the Nile River everything happen. You will experience up to grade five rafting through a 21km stretch. With regulations you must not be below 13yrs and pregnant ladies can’t do this activity. Other adventures on the Nile include bungee jumping of up to more than 100m high, kayaking among others
Zip lining
In Mabira forest Uganda’s biggest eco-forest is among a few places where zip lining adventure takes place, located east of Kampala the activity flies you above the eco forest like a bird and also you have chances to view forest monkeys like red and black monkey as you pass through countless trees only thinking of when reaching to another destination. Other places where you can experience zip line adventure include itanda falls along the Nile River, kisizzi falls in the western Uganda among others.
Boat cruise and canoeing
Spectacular views of the Most powerful waterfall in the World
Boat cruising in Uganda are a rewarding adventure activity as it takes you up close to wildlife, it’s majorly done in three different national parks. In Murchison fall the cruise along the Nile takes you up to the bottom of the falls and along the way you view different wildlife such as elephants, buffalos, crocodiles, giraffes, hippos, waterbucks, warthogs that come to the river bank to draw water. In Queen Elizabeth national park, it’s done along kazinga channel that connects Lake George to lake Edward here it has hippo pool which is believed to have the highest population Africa. Other areas is lake Mburo national park and at the source of river Nile.
With variety of adventure activities in Uganda you need not to miss any of these magical adventure experiences in pearl of African. Discover this yet undiscovered and remote part of Africa and enjoy this region also known as Africa condensed.
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Safari Etiquette for Self Driving in Uganda
Planning to go on a safari in Uganda? A Uganda self drive tour offers unforgettable experiences with Uganda’s untouched biodiversity in most of its remotest national parks require intending self drivers to observe safari etiquettes as listed above. Doing this will help safeguards you charges that the park management may require you to pay because of breaking driving rules at wildlife trails.
Provide space to wildlife to work
While driving around in your tour car, never get to next to wild animals. It doesn’t matter how stunning the views are! Everyone requires personal space including animals. There is no need to intrude into the wild animal’s home and we need to have respect to these species as they also deserve rights just like humans do. In case you find yourself very close to them, make sure that you make reserve of the car or slow down. Wild animals are never domestic and so it is hard to predict how they behave or ganger towards humans. You can not tell what they are capable of doing and reactions. Offer them adequate space such that they can behave naturally without any threats.
Don’t surround/corner wildlife with your cars
Almost similar to “provide wild animals space to work” but it is deep. This is best explained with tragic event as described in the book “101 Kruger Tales: Extraordinary stories from ordinary visitors to the Kruger National Park” a story of leopard which was sighted around the campground perimeter fence by a group of visitors in Kruger, South Africa. The tourists were very anxious to view this magnificent specie closely that they were able to surround it against the electric fence with their wall vehicles at the same time the leopard was also eager to leave but had no option instead had to run into the fence where it was electrocuted and died right in front of their eyes. In case you feel that this kind of state can turn to be harmful to wildlife then the best thing is to leave sighting.
Never cause jam/congestion in the wildlife habitat.
In most cases, tourist become excited especially after sighting lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos or buffaloes basically the big game. While at this point, it is important that you take the interest of other tourists who are also viewing the same species. Most visitors tend to pull over to areas where they sight clearly without minding that they are blocking others from enjoying the same attraction. There are 2 options that you should take note of; first, work your way into the mess, take some photos, view for some minutes and then proceed to another area. Make sure that you have turned off the car engine once you make a stop to view the wild animals. It is annoying to hear a loud sound of an engine car at a moment when you are concentrating on viewing or taking photos of lions or cheetahs. Secondly, make sure that you park the car in most comfortable distance off from the congestion. Tourists have incredibly short attention spans and immediately the species lays down for ducks behind a bush, they become bored very fast. Like a saying that goes “patience pays thought it pains,” once you become patient, you will certainly have unforgettable views of these amazing biodiversity while in the wild.
Sharing information on wildlife viewing can be the best thing that anyone should do throughout the safari.
In most instances, when you are alone in the habitat, most vehicles will always stop and inquire from you what you are searching for. In this case, some people tend to be reserved to share the information. They need the viewing wholly for themselves and forgetting that other visitors have also travelled for the same attraction and they equally want the similar stunning views of this remarkable wildlife. Be open and tell others also your sightings and share the tips, by so doing some body’s safari would equally be a memorable trip. This is one way to make safari friends in destination!
Live inside the car at all times
Across the biggest national parks in Uganda, the rule is that you are not supposed to get out your vehicle. In case you are caught by the park ranger outside the vehicle, you will perhaps be banned from the park. In case you get caught by a leopard/lion outside your car, you might not be heard from again. Some areas might be convenient for you to leave the vehicle and this is through the park’s authorities and these points include the picnic points/middle of long bridge. These areas will be clearly signed. In case you don’t see one of these signs, never leave your car.
Never sit on your vehicle window
Even when the rule is very clear “do not” get out of your vehicle, most tourists still lean out the window to catch clear sighting. Doing this is against the rules of the protected area as most wild animals are used to vehicles. They are famous with how they look like, their sound and how they smell. To several wildlife species in the parks, vehicles are merely harmless part of the landscape. A moving mountain in that case! But once the shape drastically changes the form of a human emerges, it freaks them out. They know something isn’t right and they waste energy and resources’ trying to get to know what is happening or even worse fleeing. Another critical thing with sitting on car window is that you can not know who is watching you at the back leave alone the group mates who came with you on safari but be mindful of lions. Also feeding wildlife may look fun for most humans but this is harmful to their lives. This is dangerous in such way that these species can get used to humans feeding them and in turn become aggressive and start harassing people for food, learn to steal or even bit the people who are not handing food to them.
Slow down while driving around the park
Most wild animals have lost their lives due to speedy cars because of visitors who feel they are rushing to return to the camp before the gate closes. Each night all tourists must enter the enclosed rest camps before a given time. Overall, this time is always set before sunset such that no one is out driving around after dark. The challenge is that sunset is also the perfect time of the day to take photos of animals in beautiful golden light. With this, you might be attracted to live a bit longer and from no where, you start driving very fast. To avoid this, usually we advise our clients to view the wildlife species around the camp in the evening other than speeding and causing several species to lose their lives.
Never shout at wildlife
It is not proper for you to make noise in away that the animals can look you and you photograph them. Shouting destabilizes wildlife feeding and reproduction behavior as well as take care of their lives from predators while in the habitat. It is advisable that you allow wild animals under go their behaviors and by so doing you will have amazing photos with the natural wonders of Uganda.
Don’t litter the park
Just like you take care of your home, you are also required to do the same to these species habitat. Don’t assume that you are wasting food, that food can cost the lives of wildlife given the fact that they get attracted on the road side where cars can knock them down. You need to have a small bag in your vehicle to help you keep all your litter.
Read MoreRoad Trip Uganda – Explore The Gems Of The Pearl Of Africa
Is a road trip the best way to explore the gems of Uganda?, it may be a yes or a no depending on your own views. However it is a yes because a road trip gives travelers a chance to visit more than one destinations of Uganda.
The pearl of Africa is a hidden gem in the heart of East Africa and it protects over 1000 species of birds and allows visitors to trek the endangered mountain gorillas and chimpanzees which are the closest relatives to human beings. And its national parks inhabit unique features to offer to the guests such as the big 5 mammals, antelopes, warthogs, cheetah, hippos, Zebras, Giraffes and many others. Due to a number of features and attractions in Uganda, it is ranked a safe top rated destination in the world.
A road trip in Uganda; for instance in the south west allows you to experience astonishing variety of wildlife, rolling hills and sweeping landscapes and the friendliest people in the world. It is better to hire a car and driver in order to enjoy well your road trip in Uganda, like you concentrate more on the attractions on the way. And a road trip in Uganda allows travelers to experience vast national parks, scenic lakes, wildlife reserves, volcanic mountains and many others.
As Uganda is termed the pearl of Africa, It is designed with attractions on the way, so on the road trip you have a chance to have a stopover at any spot and concentrate to sight the birds, wildlife and many other features. For example on the way to kibale national park, travelers stop primates such as black and white colobus monkeys, plus birds like long crested eagles, Turacos and many others.
Road trips in Uganda allow travelers to taste the delicious foods of Uganda and also travelers get excitement because of the new surroundings and frequent wildlife stops made during their trip. During the road trip, one gets a lot of time since they are in control of their own departure time, arrival time and also the stops along the way.
A road trip to Kibale national park allows the traveler to experience a forest walks plus chimpanzee tracking which is the famous activity in Kibale national park, the primate capital of Africa. During the walk travelers spot primates like the monkeys playing on the trees, cool and colorful butterflies and many others.
A road trip to Queen Elizabeth National park exposes travelers to the wonders of the park like the game drive where travelers get close to the wildlife in the park such as lions, Elephants, antelopes, buffaloes, warthogs and many others. Then the boat cruise on Kazinga channel brings you close to the school of hippos, reptiles and some birds in the area.
The road trip in Uganda is spiced up by having some fresh fruits that are brought from the road side of different roads, fruits like mangos, pineapples and many others. These fruits are delicious and they are ripe.
All the roads to different destinations in Uganda have a number of attractions to offer to travelers who decide to undertake different overland trips in this scenic nation, such as the incredible views, incredible farm lands, water bodies, wildlife, waterfalls, friendly people and so many others.
It’s only on a road trip where travelers sight the unique and rare wildlife of Uganda like the cheetahs, climbing lions, ostrich, endangered mountain gorillas and many others.
Therefore, a road trip is the best way to explore the gems of Uganda.
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Guide to Visiting the Mountain Gorillas in Uganda
Gorillas are tailless and ground dwelling herbivorous apes that are said to originate from the African continent. These great apes are divided into two species named the Eastern Gorillas and the Western Gorillas. They live a life of approximately 35-40 years depending on the care offered to them! Gorillas that live in the zoos may live for 50 years or more!
These great apes are amazing animals and meeting them in the wild is one of the dream experiences that you should not miss in Uganda. On a visit to these animals in the wild you will learn about their amazing lifestyle! Gorillas construct nests on the ground for their shelter during daytime & night. Gorillas usually live in groups which are called troops and these troops are led by one adult male Gorilla called a Silverback responsible for protecting its members in the troop composed of the multiple adult females and their offspring. When I call Gorillas herbivorous apes I mean that they mostly feed on foliage like leaves, stems, pith, shoots plus some fruits.
These Herbivorous apes in Africa are found only in three countries which are in the Eastern part of the Continent named Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo with Uganda hosting most part of the population conserved in two different National Parks. These National Parks named Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park are located in the South Western part of Uganda near the Virunga Massif.
You can visit these great apes on an organized tour in Uganda offered by one of the selected tour operators on this guide. Uganda hosts almost half of the world’s population of the mountain gorillas and offers wonderful opportunities to those interested in gorilla trekking. There are 17 gorilla families that are open to gorilla trekking all year round. There is also one gorilla family for the gorilla habituation experience, a new adventure that allows you to follow the gorillas for a period of up to four hours. Of the 17 Gorilla families, sixteen of them are found in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a large ancient tropical rain forest in South Western Uganda.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park hosts most part of the Uganda’s Gorilla Population which is grouped in four sectors named Nkuringo, Buhoma, Rushaga and Ruhija sector. Among these four sectors apart from Nkuringo Sector which has only two gorilla families for trekking the rest of the sectors have more than two Gorilla families for trekking. This Bwindi impenetrable National Park is found in the Western part of Uganda characterized with its thick impenetrable forest which habits these shy endangered Mountain Gorillas, reaching this park from Kampala its usually about 8-9 hours’ drive on Masaka- Mbarara highway with a stopover at the equator for some explanation about the equator, Photographs and snacks after continue with the journey.
Reaching this park you are entitled to do a lot of activities but the major one is Gorilla trekking plus Gorilla Habituation experience which is only done in Bwindi but not the same case to Gorilla trekking, in Bwindi it’s your choice to choose from the four sectors where you are going to trek depending on the location of your hotel of residence but if you are much interested in variety Rushaga is the right place. Before you enter the Jungle to beat the impenetrable forest it’s very vital to know the rules followed while trekking with these apes and this is usually done early in the morning at the offices by the park officials, it’s a must to go by these rules otherwise you may be disqualified and the permit fee of $600 USD paid per person may not be refunded to you.
After the briefing you are assigned a park ranger per a group of eight people to lead you through the Jungle and as for them most times are informed of where these great apes spent their last night, the time for the trekking activity depends on how near or far these apes spent the last night but after discovering them you are allowed to stay around them for only one hour while sharing and you are free to take a lot of photos for memories but do not use flush cameras. After that session next step is heading back to the park offices for the gorilla trekking certificate award but while in the Jungle you will be able to observe nature through sighting different species like birds, reptiles like snakes, insects like butterflies plus other physical features situated in the park.
If not Gorilla trekking there is also Gorilla habituation experience which always goes for a full day while trekking with these apes in the jungle accompanied with a permit fee of $1500 USD paid per person per day. This experience is only done in Bwindi impenetrable National park as Mgahinga doesnot have any gorilla family for habituation.
Mgahinga National Park is your second choice Gorilla hosting destination in Uganda also located in the western part of Uganda in the Virunga Massif near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, its characterized with both montane and Bamboo forests. This park has only one Gorilla family named Nyakagezi Family for trekking; the price for the permit remains the same as mentioned above. After Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga next day you can do Golden Monkey tracking which involves trekking in the jungle in search of these primates, they usually feed on the bamboo leaves and stems, you will be able to sight other species like birds, insects and more. If you are lucky you will be able to sight these Golden Monkeys swinging in the tree branches or moving on the ground and you are free to take a lot of photos for memories but don’t use flush cameras.
Read More6 Tips For Self Driving In Uganda’s National Parks
Undertaking self drive adventures to Uganda’s magnificent national parks requires that you hire that perfect car rental which suits your travel needs. Given an ever increasing number of new car hire companies, visitors are presented with variety of car rentals for them to make the best choice for their safari. Our Car Rental Company is one of the best and a reliable company that offers a range of cars for hire right from 4wheel drive Rav4, Toyota Land Cruisers, Safari and extended Land Cruisers, minivans, coasters and many more. Choosing one of these cars will offer you that total comfort that you deserve while on safari in Uganda. To have the most successful self drive adventures in Uganda’s national park, the following should be taken note of;
- Do not over speed; you are encouraged to maintain a slow speed at all times while driving in the national park. By doing this, you won’t only save the lives of the wildlife but it also allows you to catch a glimpse at most of the wildlife species that are of your interest compared if you rushed something that would make you miss to spot them. At least maintain a speed of 40 kilometers per hour to allow you to catch a glimpse at most of the wildlife species.
- Maintain a distance from wildlife species; always be mindful of wildlife species while driving in the park as they can easily cross the road. As you watching these spectacular creatures a distance of 100 meters should be kept off from the animals.
- Remain in car; note that you will be at wilderness and anything can happen so make sure that you stay safe and do not get out while watching these wildlife species. Your safety at the park is very vital. Make sure that you hire a car in Uganda with a pop up roof that allows you to view the animals while inside the car.
- Never hoot at the park; this is not accepted in the national park. This behavior disorganizes wildlife mating and makes them to migrate to other areas which may not allow you to have clear views of what you want.
- Turn off the car engine; always turn off the engine of your car while watching the wild animals. Noise tends to irritate wildlife species and this limits opportunities of you to catch a glimpse at most of the species within a close range.
- Follow the rest and ask; most of car hire agencies in Uganda offer cars on self drive basis but you should be cautios about the rest of the drivers within the park. Be aware of all the rules of driving at the park. There is however an alternative for you to spot out wildlife in the park. Make sure that you follow safari cars where they will be heading and you too should take that direction. The advantage with driving in the park is that, other drivers can also guide you and you will equally have the unforgettable experience.
In conclusion, self drive adventures to Uganda’s national parks requires you to be careful and at end of the day, you will have safe guarded the lives of the wildlife species. To have the most successful self drive adventures, follow the above tips and you won’t regret in life.
Read More9 Magical Places Visited by Tourists in Uganda
Here are the 9 magical places that tourists should not miss while on a visit in Uganda
Uganda the pearl of Africa located in East Africa astride the equator has some diverse landscapes that include western arm of the east African and Albertine rift valley, Virunga volcanoes, Nile valley, snow capped Rwenzori Mountains, tropical rainforests, wetlands and lush savannah plains. The country has perfect destinations and many attractions to satisfy needs of every traveler. That’s why we share and let you know about best magical places that you must visit if you decide to visit Uganda on a safari.
Bwindi impenetrable forest national park
Bwindi impenetrable forest national park Uganda’s premier destination is home to 400 individuals which are half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Many tourists visit the park for a really special wildlife experience; mountain gorilla trekking safaris provide a chance to see some of the 14 habituated gorilla families in their natural wild. Tourist visit are limited to only 8 people per day, so book your gorilla permit in advance.
Bwindi is a wonderful park to visit for nature loving visitors. The park has a stunning location at the edge of the Albertine rift valley in southwestern Uganda. The entire Bwindi landscape is green, wet and misty containing ancient plants and 120 mammals, colorful butterflies and 346 birds including 23 Albertine rift endemics. There are also sparkling waterfalls, orchids, flowers, clean refreshing streams which can be explored by guided nature walks.
Kibale forest national park
Kibale forest national park is an ancient tropical rainforest located in the rift valley floor in western Uganda. Accessible by 5 hours drive from Kampala, Kibale forest is an adventurous place to add to your list of places to visit. Famed as the capital primate of the world and indeed there are 13 species of primates including chimpanzee. There are also over 300 species of birds and large mammals such as elephants, lions which offer game viewing opportunities.
What’s so special about this park is chimpanzee tracking. Standing a few meters away from chimpanzee which share 98.7% of human DNA is humbling and reminds you of our ancestral origin. Then hiking, nature walks offer chances to spot primates, birds, butterflies, medicinal plants just getting you close to nature and breathtaking.
Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru caves
Amabere ga Nyina Mwiru caves are located near fort portal town in western Uganda and can be visited on a day trip from Kibale forest national park. A visit to the caves is all about learning, going back to ancient folklore and local culture of Toro kingdom, exploring waterfalls and hiking around three of the rift valley floor crater lakes that surround the caves. Geographically, Amabere caves are an ancient stalactites and stalagmites which you’ll see dripping calcium carbonate that looks like “breast milk”. But the local traditions make you understand the cultural significance of the caves to the kingdom of Toro. Once upon a time, there was a king of Toro named Bukuku who had recived a prophecy from his ancestors that there would be a girl Nyina Mwiru who will give birth to a son (Nahura) that will kill you and inherit your kingdom. It was bad news to the king Bukuku who decided to attack the girl, chop off her breasts and thrown them in the caves hence the name Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru caves.
Sipi Falls
At the edge of Mount Elgon National park in Eastern Uganda featuring the world’s largest caldera are the Sipi falls. They are a series of three waterfalls falling over 100 meter cliff. It’s a cool place to relax, breathtaking fresh air as you stand beneath the waterfalls. Nature walks around the falls are just magical with eye-catching views of the Mount Elgon and semi-arid plains of Karamoja. Sipi falls being located at the edge of Mt. Elgon, there are a lot of activities for visitors to discover the area. Sipi River provides spot fishing opportunities, there are 14 rock climbing routes, and fit hikers can go for mountain climbing, exploring the Arabic coffee villages with cultural encounters of the Bagisu. A trip to Sipi falls can be easily incorporated in your safari to Mount Elgon national park designated as UNESCO man and biosphere reserve due to its biological diversity. The park is home to big game such as elephants, buffalos, leopards, hyenas, zebras, several antelope species and over 300 species of birds with a special lammergeyer, Uganda’s endemic bird.
Source of the Nile
The source of the Nile evokes a great adventure packed yet relaxing safari for travelers. White water rafting is the major activity, with the White Nile offering grade five to one rapids. Even though rafting isn’t your favorite activity, you’ll find amazing things to and see.
River Nile is one of the 7 natural wonders of the world. Definitely a must visit area easily accessible by 11/2 hours drive from Kampala city to Jinja town. It can be a day trip or plan to stay for more days. Book one of the riverside lodges, camps, guest houses and hotels in Jinja town where you can chill, relax enjoy cool weather, drinks and local fish.
River Nile the benchmark of all rivers in the world claiming to be the longest starts to flow northwards from Victoria Nile in Jinja town. This is the real original birth place of the Nile as the British explorer Speke discovered it in 1860’s unlike other countries like Rwanda and Burundi which claim to have the furthest source. A magical experience for visitors is taking a boat ride to the real point marked the source of the Nile with Speke monument. The place is beautiful and gives you a chance to explore the magnificent Lake Victoria by 2 day house boat safari. With everything including accommodation, food and drinks on board, you sleep on water, wake up on colorful sunsets. Visitors can also go for horseback riding, quad biking and mountain through the Nile valley; the river banks are great to spot birds, otters and visit to the crocodile park with turtles and snakes. Bungee jumping is also available if your heart is brave enough to jump over 50 meters cliff.
Murchison Falls National park
Uganda’s largest conservation area, Murchison falls National Park has the 2nd powerful waterfall in Africa after Victoria Falls. And the top of the falls hike welcomes you to the park.
The waterfall is just one feature that makes the park such an attractively beautiful place to visit. The park’s diverse habitats such as palm dotted savanna, Nile delta wetlands, woodlands and tropical forests with a dry hot weather. These untouched ecosystems which are bisected by river Nile provide home to elephants, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, hartebeest, and bushbucks and large predators including lions, leopards, and hyenas can be seen on a game drive. Game viewing safari in the park is excellent as birding with over 451 species including the rare shoebill stork. Many of the accommodations are nestled along the banks of river Nile such as Paara safari lodge, Chobe safari lodge and many more to give you a refreshing stay in the park. Boat cruise to see the bottom of the falls with a trade mark rain bow, equatorial sunset views is exciting as you see hippos, crocodiles, water birds and game along the banks of the Nile. There are also spot fishing opportunities for anglers to fish the Nile perch and the biggest catch on record weighed 80kg.
Besides visiting Murchison Falls National park, the nearby Budongo forest is home to chimpanzees, several primates and a lot of birds. Visitors can drive early from Murchison to arrive early and catch up for chimp tracking. You can even spend a night, the place has eco-tourism center, camps and eco-lodges you can reserve a room in advance.
Kidepo Valley National Park
Kidepo valley is unfairly less visited and its remote location far in the north eastern Karamoja region of Uganda tells you there’s a hidden treasure to discover. Kidepo valley has been voted by CNN Travel as the most beautiful park in Africa. The park has expansive mixed semi-arid desert savanna grasslands plains; borassous palm trees, dry mountain landscape crossed by permanent and seasonal sand river valleys. Most of game viewing occurs in the Narus valley during dry seasons. It is an area rich in wildlife with 77 mammals and over 500 species of birds. Animals that are not found in other parks of Uganda can be seen in kidepo including cheetahs, jackals, Aard wolf, bat eared fox, ostrich, greater and lesser kudu. This park is home to largest buffalo herds in East Africa along with their predators like lions, hyenas and leopards. Other game includes elephants, zebras, giraffe and several antelopes. You’ll do game drives, hiking; nature walks in a quite wilderness and get a chance to interact with the IK indigenous tribe.
Kampala City
The capital of Uganda, Kampala formally set on seven hills, it has developed from being the traditional capital of Buganda kingdom into a modern business center and now spreads over 21 hills. Unlike the downtown area around Owino markets with many traders, taxis, boda boda, up town areas like Kololo, Golf course are green with lots of trees and clean streets. Beyond the scenic beautiful hills, Kampala is full of friendly and welcoming people who like to party, drink beer and never sleep at night. For that reason, Kampala is known as a sleepless city, you just need to explore its vibrant nightlife.
Visitors can enjoy a city tour visiting some of the historical landmarks such as Gaddafi national mosque and its tall tower give panoramic views of the whole city. Other notable places to visit include the UNESCO world heritage site Kasubi tombs, Makerere University the oldest in East Africa, Uganda museum, Ndere cultural center offers live cultural performances and places of warship like Bahai temple, Namirembe and Rubaga cathedrals.
Sesse Islands
If you’re looking for a relaxing holiday or honeymoon vacation, Sesse islands beaches and lush tropical palm trees surrounding the islands are a delight place. Sesse islands are made up of 84 islands found in the middle of Lake Victoria, the 2nd largest fresh water lake in the world. Bulago islands are the ones with beautiful white sand beaches. Accommodations on the island have electricity and amenities like campfires, swimming pools and Wi-Fi. You can relax, on the beach; enjoy drinks, fresh air and warm sun. Bulago islanda are a great base for boat trips to neighboring fishing villages or just remain and swim, play beach soccer, enjoy biking, nature walks around spotting sea birds, monkeys and interact with locals. Sesse islands are accessible by a 2 hours boat ride from Entebbe.
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5 Best Places for Nature Retreats in Uganda
Whether you want to track gorillas, chimpanzees, or go in search of the beautiful wildlife, birds, watch crocodiles and hippos, chill under the sun and sand, Uganda is the only destination in Africa to experience it all. Most visitors to the country find themselves happy, joyful through their stay no matter what the travel interest could be. Uganda ten national parks own full of natural wonders and one of the most appreciated wildlife species in world. Be one of those to experience a peace mind during your Uganda safari tour to any corner of the country. Can’t say here or there because the beauty of Uganda is in everything from people t attractions.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
One of the most visited attraction in Uganda; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a home to the highest number of mountain gorillas remaining in the world. Unlike other parks in Uganda, Bwindi forest is included on 90% of Uganda safari tours. Imagine yourself in the presence of the most giant primate on the planet as it welcomes you to its home and even introduces you to all its family members. What a great moment and encounter for being with mountain gorillas in the jungle forest. When you meet the gorillas, you forget all the hassles and forest treks and just focus on the thrilling experience.
Tracking mountain gorillas may be expensive in other gorilla trekking destinations but not in Uganda where travelers get discounts on gorilla permits in April, May and November. Also the general gorilla permit price per trek is $600 and tourists can access the park by road hence making backpacking tourism a considered travel option. Tourists to the park don’t only enjoy gorilla trekking tours but also nature walks, cultural tours boat cruise, waterfall hikes, bird watching and more. Since Uganda has two mountains gorilla national parks, tourists also get the best gorilla trekking experience when they decide to go gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National park. However, those planning to track mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, Mgahinga are your perfect choice destination.
Murchison Falls National Park
Famous for incredible wildlife and the might falls of the Nile, Murchison falls National Park is one of the most desirable places for tourists both on budget and luxury safaris in Uganda. Precisely wildlife safaris have been the top tourist attraction in the park for decades while other activities include a visit to the top of the falls, chimpanzee trekking, boat cruise and the Rhino nature walk at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Murchison falls provides a very nice introduction to Uganda beautiful wild bio diversities and unique beauty about the Nile Might falls. Tourists flock to Murchison falls every day to experience the thrilling attractions of the wilderness. No best time to visit Murchison falls because it’s amazing every day, every week, month and year. The park can be accessed by both road and Air hence enabling all kinds of visitors to explore the vast blessed of wildlife, chimpanzees and the might fall.
Jinja Town
The best calm city and the best city for water adventures in Uganda, Jinja is a place to explore on your Uganda safari tour. Being a base to the source of the Nile, Owen falls Dam, Bujagali Dam, and Itanda Falls. Kalagala Falls, White water rafting , Bungee jumping really and much more, Jinja is one attractive and adventurous to tourists because of what it offers .Memories and fan is all you get once you visit jinja for a 1-2 days trip. Good to include it on your Uganda safari itinerary to either Bwindi forest or Murchison falls and cool off yourself with lots of relaxing tour adventures in Jinja before your departure flight back home. The city is also unique among Uganda cities that it also allows forest walks, bird watching which tourists enjoy either on their way to or from in Mabira forest and at the twin lake that is said to have been born by a woman. The dramatic scenery with a lot of green road side attractions and tarmac roads make the city very accessible and great for short Uganda safaris and weekend gateways.
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