Safaris Uganda – Overview
Welcome to Safaris Ugada, the land of lush forests, shining lakes, and misty mountains, all woven together in the tapstry of natural wonders – “Pearl of Africa.” safaris Uganda will take you to the unexplorred and unseen adventure of your lifetime Besides the threatened mountain gorilas thriving in the Bwindi impenetrable forest, the teeming wildlife of Queen Elisabeth National Park extends a warm invitation to you. Let us delve into this enthraling world of safaris Uganda, their varied lands, unique wildlife, and cultural hertage.
Geographical Location of Safaris Uganda
Uganda is located in-southeastern Africa between latitudes 1º S and 4º N, and longitudes 30º E and 35º E. Its varied geography comprises volcanic hills, mountains, and lakes, with an average height of 900 meters-above sea level. The Ruwenzori mountain range hosts-Uganda’s-highest peak, Mount Stanley, which includes Alexandra Peak at 5,094 meters.
The south of the country is strongly influenced by Lake Victoria, one of the largest lakes in the world, with many islands included – safaris Uganda
Not only the capital Kampala but also the most important cities, such as the nearby city-of Entebbe, are located near this lake in the south. In the center of Uganda,-there is another big lake named Lake Kyoga, surrounded by large marshy areas.
This landlocked country has many large lakes. In addition to Lakes Victoria and Kyoga, there are Lake Albert, Lake Edward, and the smaller Lake George. Except for the shallow saline lakes of Karamoja, the country lies almost entirely within the Nile basin. The Victoria Nile empties from Lake Victoria westward into Lake Kyoga and thence into Lake Albert in the Congolese border, continuing north into South Sudan. The Suam River drains an area in eastern Uganda into the internal drainage basin of Lake Turkana. The far northeastern corner of Uganda drains into the Lotikipi Basin, mainly in Kenya – safaris Uganda
Uganda Safaris
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Why Visit safaris Uganda
Uganda, it is said, could really be what is known as the “Pearl of Africa,” a place where you find the ultimate safari destination boosted by natural flora, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, from the snow-capped mountains of the Rwenzori to the huge savannas, to the lush rainforests and the shimmering lakes that support a large population of wildlife – safaris Uganda
The Great Wildlife Experience
Most wildlife experiences within Uganda are among the most special and varied in all the world. It is one of those limited destinations where one gets to hike through dense rainforests to track the criticaly endangered mountain gorilas in their natural habitat. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park-offer breathtaking gorila treking adventures. Besides gorillas,-this country is also home to a fair number of wildlife species: chimpanzes, lions, elephants, and over 1,000 species of birds. That really makes this country a heaven for whoever is either interested in wildlife or photography.
Explore Scenic Landscapes
So diverse is the wildlife, and so the landscape varies in Uganda. The country is decorated with some of the finest national parks, with them all, and the Murchison Falls, where the Nile dramatically leaps through a narrow gorge, being one of its kind. On the continent’s largest lake, Lake Victoria, activities include boating, fishing, and lounging on its calm shores. Those seeking adventure can hike the challenging yet rewarding view of the Rwenzori Mountains and Mount Elgon.
Interact with Rich Cultures
Uganda Safaris is an equally rich tapestry of cultures. More than 50 distinct people make up the vibrantly rich culture of Uganda. Visitors can interact with local communities as well as feel the depth of their traditions, music, dance, and craft. The hospitality and warmness of Ugandans are legendary, and cultural interactions are usually a highlight of the visit.
Experience adventure and outdoor activities
For adrenaline seekers,-Uganda offers a variety of outdoor activities. White-water rafting on the Nile River,-bungee jumping in Jinja, and hiking through rugged terrain provide thrilling experiences for adventure enthusiasts. The country’s diverse landscapes also-offer opportunities for bird watching, cycling, and exploring hidden waterfalls.
Support Sustainable Tourism
When you come to Uganda, you will help conserve her natural endowments and improve livelihoods for communities. A good number of tours and lodges are committed to being environmentally friendly and socially acceptable tours; thus, every visit here should translate into realizing a cleaner environment and better livelihoods for Ugandans.
Tourist Activities in Uganda
Uganda is just so alive, and there are quite a lot of activities for everyone: from an adventure lover to a wildlife enthusiast and the culture aficionado, Uganda is going to make sure any traveler has unique experiences that illustrate natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Gorilla Trekking
One of the most iconic activities-of Uganda is the opportunity to go gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga-Gorila National Park. This is a once-in-a-lifetime-experience-where one gets up close and personal with mountain gorillas-in their natural habitat. Go on a trek through thick forests to view the gentle giants, a thrilling yet humbling experience laying before your eyes,-giving a chance that humankind rarely takes to connect with nature – safaris Uganda
Wildlife Safaris
Uganda has some-of the most diverse wildlife. Take safaris to at least two of its famous-national parks: Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park. These national parks are good habitats for wildlife such as elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and various classes of birds. For a more offbeat experience, visit Kidepo Valley National Park, where the intensity of witnessing raw beauty in the African wilderness is higher and has fewer crowds.
Chimpanzee Tracking
Among the best places that are cheap and affordable for one to experience the chimpanzee tracking opportunity is Uganda. The catchment area is Kibale National Park, a forest that provides habitat for such entertaining animals as they move from tree to tree and, at a higher percentage, even playing with one another through the canopy. Such a view is informative on how the closest animal relatives can behave while doing their daily activities.
White-Water Rafting and Adventure Sports
The adventurous may find Jinja the most inspiring place in East Africa; it’s an adventure capital featuring-activities from white-water rafting on the River Nile to various other activities. Feel the adrenaline pump while maneuvering through the rapids, bunge jumping, or quad biking on scenic-trails. Jinja will certainly be good for somebody who has an adrenaline rush.
Hiking and Mount Climbing
Uganda is a country of diverse landscapes which means it is an excellent hiking and mountain climbing-destination. The Rwenzori Mountains,-also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” provide treks that are very challenging and with breathtaking views. Another idea is explorung Mount Elgon National Park and hiking to the summit for an amazing sight of various surounding places – safaris Uganda
Bird Watching
With more than 1,000 species of birds, visitors have a chance to enjoy an immense experience in bird watching in Uganda. The various bird habitats, from wetlands to forests, differentiate the chances by providing the visitor with a view of many of the different rare and colorful bird species. Some of the excellent birding spots include Mabamba Swamp, the home of the elusive shoebill stork; Semuliki National Park, acknowledged for its rich avifauna, is one of the good spots -safaris Uganda
Cultural Experience
Experience the colorful heritage first hand as it is imparted culturally through vibrant traditions, music, dance, and art. Interact with locals and take part in cultural safaris to understand the customs and ways of life of the various ethnic groups. Experience more of the rich tapestry that is Uganda at traditional weddings, local markets, and historical sites – safaris Uganda
Boat Safaris and Cruises
Embark on boat safari/cruise to explore the waterways in Uganda. Book safari options on the Kazinga Channel in QENP, a boat safari line where one can get close to the hippos, crocodiles, and several species of waterbirds. Alternatively, there are sunset cruises on Lake Victoria for you to leisurely experience the scenic beauty around you – Uganda Safaris
Exploring Kampala
Kampala is, without doubt, a boisterous beehive of a city, and surely among the noisy countries when the clash of tradition versus modernity goes on. Share in the color of this city through its bustling markets, trips to cultural sites, like the Kasubi Tombs, Uganda Museum, and also the night scene here. This has to be a city with some action that rivals most of the others in natural attractions that Uganda has to offer – safaris Uganda
Best Time to Visit Uganda
Uganda is an all-year-round destination, showcasing her diversified lands to incredible wildlife. However, the best time to visit will greatly depend on what one wants to do—gorilla trekking or going for a safari—in the country, or cultural festivals happening with the area. Here’s a guide to help in planning your trip to the Pearl of Africa – safaris Uganda
Dry Seasons: June and September, December and February
Why Visit During the Dry Seasons?
- Best Time for Gorilla Treking: The dry months offer the best time for gorila treking in both Bwindi-Impenetrable-National Park and Mgahinga-Gorila National Park. Less mud on trails helps one easily hike through this very thick forest in pursuit of the mountain gorilla.
- A Good Time for Wildlife Viewing: The dry period brings forth good timing in wildlife safaris within Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, and Kidepo Valley National Parks in Uganda. Therefore, the drier times of the year allow animals to congregate on these points, hence visibly clear.
- Good climate: The weather generally lies between warm and sunny with people experiencing comfortable environments for outdoor activities and exploration.
Where to Stay in Uganda
Uganda accomodation caters to all-kinds of travelers’ requirements and budgets. Ranging from luxury lodges to middle-class hotels and budget hostels, Uganda wil definitely accommodate you-in some breathtaking-surroundings. Here is the guide that is bound to help you find your perfect stay during your visit.
Luxury Lodges and Hotels
There are high-quality lodges and hotels that ensure maximum comfort and luxury for people-who want to rest in style. These include:
- Bwindi Lodge, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Beautifully located in the center of the forest, Bwindi Lodge offers splendid views and luxurious bungalows. With its comfortable rooms and great food,-it forms an excellent base for gorilla tracking.
- Chobe Safari Lodge, Murchison Falls National Park: The lodge offers a stunning view of the Nile River and is superbly tranquil; guests will get to stay in spacious rooms with fabulous facilities, including an infinity pool and guided safari drives within the park.
- Mweya Safari Lodge, Queen Elizabeth National Park: This is one of the more luxurious safari lodges, with a peninsular area inside the park. The lodge at Mweya Safari offers accommodation with panoramic views over the Kazinga Channel, perfect for exploration of this wildlife-rich park.
- Serena Kampala Hotel, Kampala: a city-centre-placed luxury hotel with luxurious rooms, fine dining, and spa facilities—excellent for visitors who want comfort and convenience in the town – safaris Uganda
Mid-Range Accommodations
Uganda offers an incredible variety of mid-range accommodations that ensure excellent comfort at great value for one’s money.
- Boma Guesthouse: Entebbe’s neighbour to the international airport, this guesthouse is modestly comfortable, with a lovely garden and good food—a perfect way to begin or end your Ugandan adventure.
- Primate Lodge: With decent cottages near the headquarters of Kibale National Park, Primate Lodge is a perfect destination to track chimps and watch different species of birds.
- Rwakobo Rock, Lake Mburo National Park: This lodge sits atop a rock outcrop and features comfortable cottages that are well-positioned to have great views of the park. It is a good vantage point for discovering wildlife and landscapes in Lake Mburo.
- Brovad Sands Lodge, Ssese Islands: On the beautiful Ssese Islands in Lake Victoria is this lodge, which also has comfortable accommodation with a pool and access to the beach—good for a relaxing holiday.
Budget-Friendly Options
There is an adequate supply of budget accommodation in Uganda.
- Red Chilli Rest Camp, Murchison Falls National Park: Provides accommodation for budget bandas and campsites; the camp is very basic but an excellent option for budget travelers who are visiting the park.
- Back Packers Hostel, Kampala: Centrally located in the city, this hostel provides dormitory-type accommodation and private rooms. A popular choice among backpackers seeking budget accommodation in Kampala.
- Lake Bunyonyi Overland Resort, Lake Bunyonyi: Simple style, budgetary resort with gorgeous views of Lake Bunyonyi. Ideal for those wanting some peace and nature.
- Nile River Camp: Located-at the source of the Nile, this camp provides tents and dorms at reasonable prices. Adventure activities-available include rafting and bungee jumping.
Eco-Friendly Lodges
The country also has many eco-lodges focusing on environmental concerns for the eco-conscious tourist.
- Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: This locally-owned camp provides environmentally sensitive accommodation and has revenue for the purpose of local conservation and development projects.
- Mihingo Lodge, Lake Mburo National Park: This is an environmentally sensitive lodge where luxury goes hand in hand with sustainability. Accommodation is powered by solar, and the local wildlife conservation is ensured.
- Nkuringo Bwindi Gorila Lodge is located in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. With its sustainable tourism background, it offers visitors environmentally friendly cottages with community and conservation projects underway.
Important Days in Uganda
Uganda has various important days all year round that are marked by its long history, cultural diversity, and the achievements that have been made by the country. These days are marked with public holidays and festivities/ commemoration which gives visitors a chance to experience the unique culture that exists in the country – Uganda Safaris
Public Holidays
New Year’s Day – 1st January
- New Year’s Day: It is the first day-of the calendar year, characterized by partying, fireworks displays, and reunions with members of the extended families in celebration.
NRM Liberation Day, January 26
- Nature: This day remembers the victory of NRM in the year 1986, which ended the civil war in the country and ushered in the presidency of Yoweri Museveni.
- Activities: Official speeches, parades, and several other adoptions made in appreciation of peace and progress of the country
International Women’s Day
- Significance: The country joins other countries in celebrating the milestones reached by women while calling for fairness between the sexes
- Activities: Several symposia held across the country with the intention of sensitizing women’s rights and empowering them
Good Friday and Easter Monday
- Holiday: Within this predominantly Christian nation, Good Friday and Easter Monday are public holidays, which it observes through religious services and family bonding.
- Activity: There are special church services as families gather to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Labour Day – May 1
- Significance: Labour Day is a remembrance of workers’ contribution towards national development.
- Activity: Speeches and parades and other such programmes with emphasis on workers welfare and their achievements hall mark the day.
3rd June Martyrs’ Day
- Significance: The day is-celebrated in memory of the 45 Ugandan Christians who were martyred between the years 1885 and 1887 for refusing to renounce their religion.
- Activities: Thousands of pilgrims visit-the Namugongo Martyrs Shrine to pay tribute by endless prayers and religious rituals-in their memory.
9th June National Heroes Day
- Significance: This day is celebrated to show respect and recognition to the heroes of Uganda, who gave much towards the liberation and progress of the country.
- Official events are held throughout the day in memory of those heroes, and people with exemplary acts of bravery and distinguished service are rewarded accordingly.
October 9: Independence Day
- This is an anniversary-of the day when Uganda became independent from the British colonial rule in 1962.
- Activity: This-day is marked by-national-celebrations that include parades, cultural performances,-and speeches reflective of-progress-and unity-in Uganda.
Christmas Day December 25-and Boxing Day December 26
- Christmas is a public holiday-in Uganda. It is characterized by religious services, family gathering, and feasting.
- Most of them will have a normal church service followed by sharing gifts and taking meals together as families. The next day, called Boxing Day, is for relaxation and just lounging around, enjoying the company of family and friends.
What to Pack for Your Uganda Safaris
Safaris in Uganda are-the real deal-of a lifetime. This country offers amazing views of varying landscapes, opportunities to view big wildlife, and getting up close with different cultures. The journey-is going to be way more comfortable and enjoyable if one is perfectly packed. Detailed below is what you should-include in your packing list for-your Uganda safari – safaris Uganda
Lightweight, Breathable Clothing: Carry light, breathable clothing-in neutral shades such as khaki, olive, or brown. These-colors really blend very well with their natural surroundings and are hence perfect for game viewing.
Long-Sleeved Shirts and Trousers: They protect from-insects, sun, and thorny vegetation and therefore are very useful-during gorillatrekking or nature walks – safaris Uganda
- Warm Layers: Evenings and mornings can be cool,-especially in the high altitudes like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the Rwenzori Mountains. Bring a fleece or jacket to stay warm.
- Waterproof Jacket or Poncho: Uganda’s weather can be so unpredictable; rain showers-can occur even in-the dry season. A waterproof jacket or poncho-will keep you dry during unexpected rain.
- Comfortable Footwear: Sturdy comfortable-hiking-boots for trekks/walking safaris, and a pair of sandals/sneakers for lounging around the lodges.
- Wide-Brimmed Hat and Sunglasses: One wil require protection from directsunlight; hence, a wide-brimmed hat-and sunglasses should be-considered very useful. This is most necessary when-one spends a considerable amount of time in the outdoors.
Must-haves
- Binoculars: get up-close views with good binoculars to have a closer view of animals/birds from-a distance.
- Camera and Extra Batteries: Capture the memorable pictures of beauty in Uganda. You may not want to miss taking your unforgettable moments—extra batteries and memory cards.
- Re-usable Water Bottle: Hydrating keeps-you going; remember to carry a water bottle and refil it on your way to replace disposable supplies and avert plastic wastage.
- Sunscreen and Insect Repellent: Apply high-SPF sunscreen to the skin to protect it from the sun, and insect repelent to fend-off mosquitoes-and other flying insects.
- A small daypack can be very-useful in carying water,-snacks, cameras, and jackets during the daily shoot.
Health and Safety
First-Aid Kit: The general first-aid kit must contain band-aids,-antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and personal medications that might be required.
- Malaria Prophylaxis: You can discuss with your doctor issues of malaria prophylaxis before going to Uganda. One is best advised to take preventive medication – Uganda Safaris
- Hand Sanitizer and Wet Wipes: A hand sanitizer, together with the wet wipes, will help in keeping the hands fresh at all times from the different activities and settings, and to make sure that they remain clean especially when facilities are not available.
- Face Masks and Sanitizers: Bring face masks and sanitisers to be worn/run in public places and crowded areas.
Documentation and Money
- Travel Documents: Ensure that your passport does not expire up to six months beyond your intended period of travel. If you need a Ugandan visa, apply.
- Travel Insurance: This can be a big help if sudden medical expenses arise from falling ill or due to an accident, and many such events that can compel one to cancel their trip. Besides that, it also covers lost belongings.
- Copies of Important Documents: Make multiple copies of your passport, visa, insurance, and other important documents just in case you lose them or they get stolen.
- Cash-and Cards: Bring some US currency-in smal change for tips or local-purchases and a credit-or debit-card in case of an emergency – safaris Uganda
National Park in safaris Uganda
Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls is one of Uganda’s-first national parks, gazetted in 1952. At Murchison Falls,-the Nile squeezes through an 8m wide gorge and plunges with a thunderous roar-into the “Devil’s Cauldron”, creating-a trademark rainbow – Uganada Safaris
In this-northern part of the park there is savanna with Borassus palms, acacia trees and riverine woodland, while-the south-is dominated by woodland and forest patches. The 1951 movie The African Queen,-starring Humphrey Bogart, was shot on location at Lake Albert-and the Nile in Murchison Falls National Paark – Uganda Safaris
Murchison Falls-National Park lies at the northern end of the Albertine Rift Valley, where the sweeping Bunyoro-escarpment tumbles into vast, extending and slippery drizzle covered palm highlighted savanna. First as game Reserve in 1926, it is the country’s largest and oldest conservation area in safaris Uganda
The Victoria Nile bisects the park and plummets 45m over the remnant rift valley wall in a dazzle of foamy water and spray known as Murchison Falls, the centerpiece of the park and the final event in an 80km stretch of rapids. This is the great falling end of the river, all remaining energy here is sponged off, and it leaves the river a sluggish, smooth-surfaced flow. The one most impressive wildlife sight in Uganda is to be had in this stretch of the river. Other regular inhabitants on the riverbanks are elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes; hippos, crocodiles, and aquatic birds dot the water – safaris Uganda
Murchison Falls is exceptionally endowed with over 144 mammals, 556 species of birds, 51 reptiles, and 51 amphibians. Now with an excellent number of African elephants, Murchison falls is magnificent throughout the year. The recent Aerial survey recorded over 900 individuals and 1,330 and is at an increasing number. Historically, Giraffes have only resided in the northern sector of the park. Buffaloes populations have increased to over 10,000, while Uganda kobs have increased more than 35,000 – safaris Uganda
On the birds checklist is a shoebill dominating all the rest along the river stretch flowing to the Albert delta, many profolic-s occupying the park. On the southern bank, the white crested turaco and the red-winged grey warbler are all associated with woodland.
Among the great visitors of the park include Winston Churchill, Theodore Roosevelt, Ernest Hemingway and many British royals – safaris Uganda
Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park This is another location on the highway that connects Kampala to parks of western Uganda. It is the smallest of Uganda’s savannah national parks with ancient Precambrian metamorphic rocks that date back over 500 million years. Presence of 350 species of birds is likely, with also zebras, impalas, elands, buffalos, oribi, Defassa waterbuck, leopard, hippo, hyenas, topi, and Reedbuck – safaris Uganda
Together with 13 other lakes in the area, Lake Mburo forms part of a 50km-long wetland system linked by a swamp. Five of these lakes lie within the park’s borders. This used to be an open savanna, and as such there is a healthy population of Buffalos, Wathhog ,bushpig and hippopotamus. Lake Mburo national park now contains more woodland as there are no elephants to tame the vegetation. There is savanna, mingled with rocky ridges, and forested ravines in the west of this park, and most lakes are lined with papyrus swamp interspersed with narrow bands of lush riparian woodland – safaris Uganda
Lake Mburo is specially gifted with over 315 bird species, and most likely, it is the best place to view birds associated with acacia. Rwonyo is a good zone to see mosque swallow, black-bellied bustard, bare-faced go-away bird, Ruppell’s starling. Few birds are recorded, but essentially the southern ground hornbill and black-throated barbet – safaris Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Situated in southwestern Ugannda on the edge of the Rift Valley, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park-is blanketed by one of Uganda’s oldest and most biologically various rain forests. It dates-from over 25,000 years ago, containing almost 400 different species of plants. More famously, this “impenetrable forest” also protects an estimated 459 mountain gorillas—roughly half of the world’s population, including several habituated groups, which visitors can track – Uganda Safaris
This biologically diverse region also offers shelter to a further 120 mammals, which include several primate species like baboons and chimpanzees, Elephants, antelopes. There are about 350 species of birds hosted in this forest, of which 23 are Albertine Rift endemics.
The Bwindi also hosts at least 200 species of butterflies, of which the eight are Albertine Rift endemics. Also, it is a home to many reptiles – safaris Uganda
The local towns of Buhoma and Nkuringo, adjoining the park, offer stunning options of upmarket lodges, bush bandas, and campsites, along with associated restaurants, craft stalls, and guiding services. Opportunities line up for learning about Bakiga and Batwa Pygmy cultures through cultural performances, workshops, and village walks.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
This is Queen Elizabeth National Park, spanning across the equator line; monuments mark either side of the road, pointing out the exact spot where it crosses latitude 00. The park was established in 1952 as Kazinga National Park and renamed after two years following the visit of Queen Elizabeth II of England – safaris Uganda
In the case of the paark, there are over 95 mammal species and upwards of 600 different species of birds. The highest point in the paark is the Katwe explosion craters at an altitude of 1,350m above sea level, while the lowest point is at 910m at Lake Edward.
No wonder Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s premier destination. The sprawling savannas, shadowy and moist forests, shining lakes, and fertile wetlands make up a variety of perfect habitats in this park for the classic big game, ten primate species—including chimpanzees—and more than 600 species of birds – safaris Uganda
With the jagged Ruwenzori Mountains serving as a backcloth, such stunning vistas in this park include scores of gigantic craters dramatically hewn in rolling green hills, panoramic views of the Kazinga Channel with its banks lined by hippos, buffalo, and elephants, and endless Ishasha plains whose fig trees conceal lions ready to pounce on herds of unsuspecting Uganda kob – safaris Uganda
Though Queen Elizabeth National Park stands out in wildlife attraction, the park bears a very rich cultural history. Several opportunities to mix with the local communities are available: storytelling, dances, music, and so much more. Gazetting the park insured the conservation of ecosystems, and this turns to benefitting the people of the surrounding communities – safaris Uganda
The major portion of Queen Elizabeth is composed of grassland and savannah, which generally are always moist and woody in the west as compared to the eastern part. This type of habitat is covered with Thorny Acacia with a high concentration of candelabra shrub, a type of cactus growing along the Kazinga Channel and the Kasenyi Plains – safaris Uganda
Queen Elisabeth supports at least 95 species of mammals; it contains 20 carnivores like the Lion, Leopards, side-stripped jackal, and spotted hyena, among others – safaris Uganda
Kidepo National Park
Kidepo Valley National Park is located in rugged, semi-arid valleys between Uganda’s borders with south Sudan to the north west and only 5km from the eastern border of Kenya, some 700km from Kampala. Gazetted as a national park in 1962, it has profusion of big game hosting over 77 mammal species.
Kidepo is Uganda’s most remote national park, but the few who make their way to the long journey north through the wild frontier region of Karamoja would agree that it’s also the most magnificent. For Kidepo ranks among Africa’s finest wildernesses. From Apoka, in the heart of the park, a savannah landscape extends far beyond the gazetted area, towards horizons outlined by distant mountain ranges safaris Uganda
During the dry season, the only permanent water is found in wetlands and remnant pools in the broad Narus Valley near Apoka. These seasonal oases, associated with the open, savannah terrain, make Narus Valley the prime game viewing location in the park, especially with its dense populations of Lion, Buffaloes, Elephant, and many similar angulates – safaris Uganda
The elephant population has increased from about 200 in the mid-1990s to between 650 and 1000 today. The African Buffalo population is currently estimated at 10,000 to 15,000. Quite outstanding is the case of Rothschild’s Giraffe, which has bred over 50 individuals from the bottleneck of the mid-1990’s population of three, supplementing some from translocation – safaris Uganda
Checklist of over 476 species of birds—in inventory—with the common Ostrich, Secretary Bird, Northern Carmine Bee Eater, Little Green Bee Eater, Abyssinian Scimitar Bill, and many others colorful and visible – safaris Uganda
Mgahinga Gorilla National Paark.
Mgahinga Goriilla Natiional Paark lies between altitudes of 2,227 and 4,127 meters high in the clouds. As such, the name bears out that the park was formed in efforts geared toward giving better security to the rare mountain gorillas that live in its thick forests. It has some important habitat for the endangered golden monkey.
It is equally significant culturally, particularly for the indigenous Batwa Pygmies. The hunter-gatherer tribe was the first to belong to the forest, and its ancient knowledge of the secrets is unrivaled to this day – Uganda Safaris
Perhaps the most outstanding features of Mgahinga are its three conical, extinct volcanoes, part of the spectacular Virunga Range, which lies along the border region of Uganda, Congo, and Rwanda. Mgahinga forms part of the much larger Virunga Conservation Area, which includes adjoining parks in these countries. Being biologically diverse as a consequence of the mixture of ecosystems on their slopes, the peaks offer a clear backdrop of this beautiful scenery.
It has over 76 mammals, including Elephants, Giant Forest Hog, Bush Pigs, and Bush Back. Buffaloes, Leopards, a checklist of over 180 Species of birds, including the 14 Endemic Albertine Rift-notably, Kivu Ground Thrush and Turaco – safaris Uganda
Kibale Forest National Park.
This is Kibale’s star attraction: this is the Kanyanchu Primate Walk—a fantastic opportunity to track thirteen different species of primates. A few diurnal monkey species are usually visible, but the chimpanzees have to be the stars of the show. Since-the habituation process started in Kanyanchu in 1993, the chances of viewing them are much better. Guided-walks-start-at 8:00 a.m. and-2:00 p.m. They can last up to three hours or more,-depending on several factors – safaris Uganda
This is the most famous of all primate walks, giving insight into the habitat of the chimpanzee. Chimp groups in Kanyanchu were habituated more than 25 years ago, and the chances of one sighting them are more than 90%. Walks leave from the Kanyanchu Visitor Centre at 8.00am, 11.00am, and 2.00pm The duration of these walks is from two to five hours. Note well: Registration and briefing are time-consuming, so arriving early is advisable. The time with chimps will be only one hour, most six people in a group, and participants must not be younger than 16 years in age. Advance bookings are required – Uganda Safaris
It is well-recognized as the richest biological region in the world, home to more than 120 other mammal species, including baboons, elephants, and different varieties of antelopes. The region harbors over 370 species of birds, 23 of them being Albertine Rift endemics, among which Cleopatra, Lowland Masked Apalis, and Blue-Headed Be-Eater may be – safaris Uganda
Most famous of Kibale’s primate population is the influx of around 1,500 chimpanzees split into at least a dozen different communities with four habituated to human presence. Kanyantale community has been followed by the tourists on a daily basis since 1993 – safaris Uganda
Mt Elgon National Park
Mt Elgon used to be the highest mountain in Africa, taller than the present 5,895m of Kilimanjaro. For millions-of years, erosion has reduced the peak to 4,321m and dropped it to be the 4th highest peak in East Africa and 8th in the whole of Africa.
Mt Elgon has two main-tribes: the Bamasaba and the Sabiny. Marginalized are the Ndorobos, who are then confined to the deeper parts of the Benet forest.
The Bagisu, otherwise called BaMasaba, believe that what Mount Elgon is to them it is just but an embodiment of their founding father, Masaba, and they call the mountain by that name – Uganda Safaris
Mt. Elgon, with a base of 4,000 km², is the largest in the world of all volcanoes. It is also the oldest and largest solitary volcanic mountain in East Africa, straddling astride the Uganda-Kenya border. Huge forms tower more than 3,000m above the surrounding plains, which are 80km in diameter. This mountain cool heights offer relief from the hot plains below. It serves as a home for flora and fauna at higher altitudes.
Mt Elgon National Park is a home to quite several montane forest bird species, notably the endangered Lammergeyer. Higher reaches in Uganda and Kenya were nationally designated, hence forming a large tract with transboundary conservation and declaration as a UNESCO Man & Biosphere Reserve.
Mt Elgon’s moorlands, a climb onto deserted, grand, clutter-free wilderness without all the summit-oriented approach common to so many mountains, with Wagagai Peak at 4321m not the goal of reaching Mt. Elgon’s top—the goal being the descent into the vast 40km² caldera itself.
There is relatively scanty recorded knowledge of the mammalian fauna of Mount Elgon. The most frequent species are blue monkeys and black and white columbus—least, they are what hikers most easily see. A few Elephants do exist in the forests; though several of the montane moorland endemics – safaris Uganda
Rwenzori Mountain National Park
The Rwenzori is not volcanic like East Africa’s other major mountains but is a block of rock up-faulted through the floor of the Western Rift Valley. The Rwenzoris were christened the “Mountains of the Moon” by the Alexandrine geographer Ptolemy in AD 150.
Henry Stanley, the explorer, put the Rwenzori on the map on 24th May 1888. He called them ‘Ruwenzori’ after a local name that he found to mean “Rain-Maker” or “Cloud-King.” Ms. Beryl Park-the oldest recorded became the oldest person at 78 to reach Margherita Peak in 2010.
Others know them as the fabled Mountains of the Moon, the Rwenzoris lying in western Uganda close to the Uganda-Congo border. Their equatorial snow peaks include the third highest point in Africa while the lower slopes are blanketed in moorland, bamboo, and rich, moist montane forest. Huge tree heathers and colorful mosses hang across the mountainside with giant lobelias and “everlasting flowers” in a charming fairy-tale scene.
On the other hand, it’s a protection of some of the highest components of the 120 km in length by 65 km in-width Rwenzori Mountain range. Some attractions within it are 70 mammal species, 217 bird species, including 19 Albertine Rift endemics, and some of the rarest vegetation in the world.
The Rwenzoris form a fine world-class hiking and mountaineering destination. Serious climbers will have a chance to reach the summit of Margherita in just nine to twelve days. High peaks require ropes, ice axes, and crampons, as the surrounding hilly places entail day walks between camps safaris Uganda
Semliki National Park
Nevertheless, these features are more typical of central Africa than of east Africa, in general. West African oil palms shade grass thatched huts; the Semuliki River — which forms the international boundary — is a miniature version of the Congo River and, similarly, the forest is home to many Central African wildlife species, while the local population includes a Batwa pygmy community that originated from the Ituri. It is thus said to have a feel of Central Africa away from the country of safaris Uganda
Although species of Semuliki have been accumulating more than 25,000 years ago, the park contains evidence of the older processes. Hot springs bubble up from the depth to demonstrate the powerful subterranean forces that have worked in shaping the rift valley all the last 14 million years.
It is home to another 120 mammals, such as several primate species like baboons and chimpanzees, other than elephants and antelopes. There are an estimated 350 species of birds inhabiting this forest, of which 23 are Albertine Rift endemics.
Hippos and crocodiles are a common feature along the Semuliki River. Over 300 species of butterflies have been identified that include the 46 species of forest swallowtail together with the 235 moth species. More than 435 different bird species have been identified in Semuliki, with the checklist inclusive of 35 Guinea congo forest biome species, spot-breasted ibis, Haartlaub’s duck, Congo sepent eagle, chestnut flaned goshawk, and red thighed sparrowhawk. Besides these two species, there are twelve more highly localized species found across the biome, such as the western broze-naped pigeon and the yellow-throated cuckoo – safaris Uganda