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Why Gorilla Trekking is Much Loved?

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Gorilla Trekking in Africa

In Luganda language, gorillas are called “Bisodde” in Lunyankole-Lukiga, its “Engagi” and other names depending on the tribe. Gorillas are found in forested areas, mountainous areas and so on. Those which prefer staying in low lands are called Lowland Gorillas while those staying in highlands are called mountain gorillas.

Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are the only homes to the mountain gorillas. These countries host the mountain gorillas in four gazetted national parks of Bwindi National Park and Mgahinga National Park of Uganda, the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Gorillas are found in ten countries in Africa. Other African countries hosting the endangered gorillas include Central African Republic, Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Congo Brazzaville, Angola, Cameroon and Gabon.

Meeting the gorillas eye to eye in the wild is one of the most thrilling wildlife encounters you can enjoy in Africa. Within several countries, gorilla tourism has been developed and tourists can visit the natural habitats where these great apes live and watch them from the wild. This experience commonly referred to as gorilla trekking is a moving experience. Don’t expect a zoo experience given that you will be within the natural home of the great apes without any barrier protecting you.

Looking into the pensive eyes of the gentle giants is such a heart pounding experience. It should be noted that gorillas are more loved for trekking which is evidenced by the large number of tourists yearning to meet them in their natural habitat. Most gorilla watching trips are taken in Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic. Within these countries, gorilla trekking is the top tourist activity in each country. Other destinations where you can go for gorilla watching are Gabon, the Republic of Congo, Central African Republic and Nigeria.

Of all these destinations, Rwanda is the favorite destination for luxury gorilla treks. For budget and mid-range travel, Uganda is the ultimate destination to visit. There are also opportunities to experience a luxury gorilla safari in Uganda.

Gorillas are much loved due to the following reasons:

Gorillas are human like, they are intelligent and somehow similar DNA after chimpanzees. Gorillas exhibits unique characters which are similar to those of human being like formulating organized  families, building shelters, feeding together, hunting together and so on.

Gorilla trekking offers amazing experience – it involves climbing uphill and sloping down the valleys, crossing rivers and so on when trying to look for them in their natural habitat.  The exercise in done in groups under the guidance of rangers who ensures that the trek is enjoyable and informative. In Uganda and Rwanda, each gorilla group is visited by the maximum of eight people who trek while sharing ideas among others.

Gorilla trekking enable visitors to exercise their bodies- the process of climbing, sloping, jumping over rivers and so on. In other words, the exercise improves human health just like a person from Jim.

Tropical forest in Uganda including Bwindi Forest and Mgahinga National Park offers pure breathing air which is rarely found in urban areas. The forest also offer other tourist attractions like unique tree species, hills and valleys, insects, reptiles and water bodies among others.

Gorillas earn a lot of foreign exchange in countries like Uganda, Rwanda, and Democratic Republic of Congo among others. Currently, Rwanda charges US$1500 per Gorilla permits, Uganda charges US$800, DR. Congo charges US$400 which widens the government tax base of such countries hosting Gorillas.

Gorillas defend themselves in times of danger making them easy to host. Gorillas have predators because they are strong enough to defeat their enemies without the help of human being- in other words, Gorillas are stronger than human beings – it’s estimated that, one Gorilla is equivalent to the strength of ten strong men.

Gorillas are calm if not disturbed – they can only charge when they detected danger. That is why trekkers are argued to follow the rules and regulations governing Gorillas trekking exercise.  It should be noted that, human should leave a reasonable distance in between with Gorillas; Flash cameras should be avoided, when Gorillas charge, better leave.

Gorillas in natural habitat are easy to host because they feed on vegetation, defend themselves in time of attack and look for their young ones among others.

8 Natural Attractions Not to Miss in Uganda

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Sezibwa Falls

Located in East Africa, the pearl of Africa Uganda is one of the major tourism destination blessed with both natural and, man made attractions all interesting to the tourists, Uganda is gifted by nature with various water bodies lakes , rivers forests, mountains unique culture, cultural sites and historical sites among others.  More still, the pearl of Africa Uganda is a land locked country which is crossed by the equator and border Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, south Sudan and Democratic republic of Congo. There are more than 54 tribes in Uganda each different and unique in their own ways and English is the most spoken language by most people across different cultures besides their local cultures. There are various natural sites in Uganda which tourists should not miss out on their tripe to Uganda which includes the following:

The source of the Nile

This is the point where river Nile/white Nile begins to trek from Victoria to the Mediterranean Sea covering a distance of 6695 kms. This point was formerly the Rippon falls that submerged as a result of the construction of Murchison falls dam which is located in Jinja district Uganda.

Amabere Ga Nyinamwiru:

This site is a lime stone with stalagmites and stalactites which drip the calcium carbonate to form stalagmites down below. They are located near Nyakasura School 9kms west of fort portal town in Kabalore district. They are referred to as the breasts of Nyinamwiru who was the mother of Ndahura the first Mucwezi king of the empire of kitara, more still; there is a water fall within the rock shelter and crater all which have qualified the site to be a tourist attraction site.

Sempaya Hot springs

These hot springs are located at two areas where one is named as male where as the other named as female, they are found in the semliki river valley below the escarpment on the read from fort portal to Bundibugyo town. It is a site where the Bamba inhabitants I of Bundibugyo district carryout their cultural ceremonies and as a famous tourist site not to missed out by the travelers.

Semwema Rock Shelter

This is located 2kms west of kakumiro trading centre and 1 km east of Munsa earthworks in kibale district. It is an active shrine of the bachwezi cult which is underneath a rock shelter that can accommodate about 200 people. There is also a tunnel within the rock shelter through which the visitors pass to the top to clearly view the country side, more still at the shrine, a numerical 9 within the bachwezi cult is observed which is so interesting to the tourists most especially first time travelers.

Bugoma Tree

This is a lone ever green tree which can be seen within a distance of 30kms of plateau land 20kms east of Rubaare trading centre on the Mbarara kabale high way. The site is an active shrine of the religious cult known as the balangi who like the bacwezi cult gather at the site on Saturdays for day and night prayers, its antiquity is evidenced by the extensive root system some of which stretch to 100 meters from the tree.

Kisizi Waterfall

The site is found near Kisizi hospital and it is a site where un married girls who could get pregnant would be tied and their brothers would push them down the falls to die as a deterrent against pre marital pregnancies. This practice is no longer practiced but the site is there as a tourist site, tourists should therefore not miss out this opportunity whenever they have a trip to Uganda.

Sezibwa Falls

Situated 3kms off the 30kms Kampala Jinja road, it is an active shrine and it is said that a big snake lives in one of the rock shelters which feeds on eggs and ritual objects brought by supplicants. At the site, supplicants are also washed at the point where the falls drop to heal from infertility and poverty.

Conclusively, Uganda is blessed with many tourism site which are in their natural setting, have never been tampered at any single time for decades. Travelers taking tours in Uganda are always blessed enjoy such natural sites with exciting histories that gives them a memorable experience.

Top Places to Visit with a Rented Car in Uganda

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Kidepo Wilderness

When you think of car rental deals Uganda should be on top in terms of countries to Visit. There are many attractions which can be visited with a rental car in Uganda. It doesn’t matter in case you do not know how to drive the car, there are Chauffeur drivers who are very professional about driving in Uganda and the neighboring countries. In case a client knows how to drive, self-driving is also one of the best ways to explore Uganda. It doesn’t require much; your local driving license is acceptable to drive in Uganda and for those with international driving license it is a very good option.

Uganda is gifted by nature and this makes it a prime destination for natural lovers, there are many attractions to see ranging from water bodies, wildlife, mountains, forests and culture. Here below are the places to choose on car rental basis.

Western Uganda

Bwindi and Mgahinga National parks

For tourists visiting Uganda whether on car hire or self-driving, gorilla parks shouldn’t miss on the list. The famous Bwindi Forest National Park and Mgahinga are Uganda’s national parks where the rare mountain gorillas can be tracked. They are close relatives of humans and nothing is so exciting to stand before the gentle and shy creatures. Mountain Gorillas on this planet earth can be tracked in three countries Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo. Though the price for the permit is a bit high and differs depending on the country, the experience is exceptional and life time.

Queen Elizabeth National Park: This is a wildlife park in Uganda and it is strategically located. Many visitors do visit Queen Elizabeth National Park to enjoy its diversity of attractions, Besides the many animals which can be seen in the game drive, there is another option of cruising on Kazinga channel summarizing the visit by spotting some of other species missed on the game drive.

Queen Elizabeth also includes Kyambura gorge which is known to be a home to primates and the most attractive one is the Chimpanzees. Enjoy the beautiful land scape of the gorge while tracking another close relative of Human, the Chimpanzees. Visiting the gorge is fun, appreciate nature, different bird species and many more.

Queen Elizabeth National Park also offers another section of Ishasha. This is the section where visitors enjoy the tree climbing lions. It is a rare happening but the chance is available in Ishasha sector.

Kibale National Park: Kibale forest is one of the famous places in Uganda for Chimpanzees Tracking, not only Chimpanzees, the forest is a home to 13 species of primates. With activities like Chimpanzee Tracking, Nature walks, birding, and Chimpanzee habituation. You will be immersed in Kibale’s specials and the experience is incomparable.

Lake Mburo National Park: It is among the smallest National Park in Uganda but with diversity of species. Lake Mburo is known to have those attractions and activities which are rarely found in other parks, Besides the normal game drive and boat cruise where visitors can see many wildlife, there are activities like Horse riding, cycling safaris, Natural walks for both day and night.

Northern Uganda

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: This is the only place in Uganda where you can see the Rhinos, and it’s a place where the list of big five can be completed. They are white rhinos and visitors are escorted by the guides and track them in the sanctuary. Besides the Rhino, the sanctuary is home to many other attractions like antelopes, different bird species and many more.

Murchison falls National Park: It is the biggest National Park in Uganda. It is where the Murchison falls is found on the River Nile. The park is home to many animals like lions, leopards, elephants, Giraffe and etc. Another powerful attraction in this park is the boat cruise to the bottom of the falls. The falls are beautiful and very beautiful to look at. Other attractions include visiting the top of the falls, spot fishing, boast cruise to the delta, birding and cultural encounters.

Kidepo National Park: It is one of the remote National parks in Uganda. The park is not disappointing and when it comes to the land scape and culture, Kidepo is above nothing. In the game drive, expect to see animals like, Bush pigs, Giraffes, Hynas, Oribi, lions, leopard and many more. Since the park is remote and far, strong 4×4 car is recommend for the smooth running of the trip.

Eastern Uganda:

Jinja: It is not far away from Central Kampala. The place is suitable for adventure travelers, honeymooners and those who prefer to relax from the stress or from the long holidays. It is where the River Nile and Lake Victoria is found. Enjoy water-based activities here like Visiting the source of the Nile, Rafting, Bungee jumping, Boat cruises, and many more.

Sipi Falls: It’s located on Mountain Elgon; the falls are in 3 fazes and each phase is a miracle on its own. The falls can be explored on a nature walk passing through people’s gardens and rocks. Visitors are escorted by the local guides. Enjoy the cool breeze, views of different places and also take unforgettable pictures to take memories at home.

Where to sleep on a car Hire tour in Uganda

No need to worry about where to sleep on a car hire trip in Uganda. The country has developed its infrastructure and there are different types of accommodation where a visitor can choose where to spend nights. They range from Camping, Budget, Midrange and Luxury. Some of the known accommodation facilities in different places include, Clouds Mountain Gorillas, Rushaga Gorilla lodge, Mweya safari lodge, Bush lodge, Paraa safari lodge, and Fort Murchison.

Sofiane Mahmoudi linked with a move away from Stade Beaucairois this summer

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Stade Beaucairois FC goalkeeper Sofiane Mahmoudi ‘is on the radar of French club Tours FC’ ahead of a potential summer move.

Sofiane Mahmoudi has been linked with a move away from Stade Beaucairois this summer.

Mahmoudi has spent the last 1 year with Stade Beaucairois after joining Athlético Marseille in 2019, but is now approaching the final year of his contract at Stade Beaucairois.

According to sources, a contract between Tours and Mahmoudi is likely to be reached in the next few days after the French-Algerian verbally agreed to join the Paris based club due to lack of playing time at Stade Beaucairois

Mahmoudi acquisition will be a boost for the French club ahead of the new season.

The Bwola Dance: Watch True Soul of Acholi Come to life!

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Bwola Dance

Bwola. A dance with heart. True soul. A dance of pride, showcase, and just a little more pride. A leap here and there, but done with technique. Only for those with well-woven talents. Not just anyone, no! Bwola, the Acholi traditional dance for royalty.

Fun, entertaining, and brings with it cultural freshness. No wonder it was a preserve for entertaining traditional chiefs on the day they took their places. Also, specially preserved for other palace events among the Acholi. The dancers take this seriously, the look is as important as the skill, it must command attention.

Dancers adorn warriors’ worrisome traditional attire with feathers on their heads depicting nothing, but a strong cultural heritage. Feathers signify royalty. Voluptuous, traditional sounds sear through as dancers leap and jump and fashionably wobble on the ground like a well-choreographed dance troupe. They make a beeline and file and dance leaning towards the instrumentation usually played by someone in the middle.

They wiggle. They dance happily and proudly. The treat is as much in their faces as it is in the skill. A display of enjoyment and just reserve; as if they want to let go but must also control themselves. A tease of sorts, a bit of strength and radiance merged into a bowl of authentic Ugandan showcase. The spirit of the Acholi is in every move, their resilience ever does pronounce. Again, Bwola is a dance of pride!

What a traditional monument; a pillar of Acholi culture. It depicts strong warrior skills, how Africans are fierce and fearless, how Africans are brave and ready to attack, no matter the magnitude of the enemy. It may look strange, but it isn’t; it is a dance celebrated by the Acholi people. It shows nothing, but how people confronted their enemies – with unbridled brevity.

With quite the captivating routine, non-Acholi enjoy the Bwola dance as well. It is performed at weddings and parties. It is always performed by a bunch of traditional dancers who entertain guests leaping, wiggling, and pulling moves no ‘new school’s dancers will easily match. It is a unique dance. Traditional yet enjoyable and easy on the eye. It is a cultural practice that bonds people, strengthens marriages, and entertains guests.

The Bwola dance can only be required to Ankole’s Ekitaguriro and Bugisu’s Kadodi. It bonds people, strengthens marriages, and entertains guests, royal guests. Next time you’re at a wedding in Uganda, more especially in the Acholi region, look out for the Bwola dance. Should you spot it anywhere, then don’t miss it! The Bwola dance is en vogue. Call it the 21st Century break dance performed in Uganda where traditional meets are popular in dance matrimony.

MV NODL Victoria Celebrates World Chimpanzee Day and 25 Years of Ngamba Island

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On Friday 14th July 2023, history was made as the MV NODL Victoria, a magnificent catamaran ship, set sail on Lake Victoria to commemorate two significant milestones: World Chimpanzee Day and the 25th anniversary of Ngamba Island. The ship, bearing the weight of 134 passionate individuals, embarked on a journey that would not only celebrate these momentous occasions but also symbolize the collective effort to protect a preserve the remarkable chimpanzee Trust, has been a beacon of hope for chimpanzee in need  since its establishment a quarter-century ago. As the MV NODL Victoria gracefully sailed across the shimmering water, it carried with it the excitement and anticipation of the passengers, who were eagerly participating in this extraordinary celebration.

The World Chimpanzee Day, a global event dedicated to raising awareness about the conservation and welfare of Chimpanzees provided the perfect backdrop for this grand occasion. The festivities on Ngamba Island served as a testament to the tireless efforts of the Chimpanzee Trust and their unveiling commitment to these incredible creatures. The ships journey, which commenced at 10:29 am from Nakiwogo Entebbe, was not merely means of transportation; it was a symbolic representation of the voyage that each rescued chimpanzee undertakes. As the attendees boarded the MV NODL Victoria, they embarked on a shared journey of compassion, echoing the hope and determination that accompanies every chimpanzee that finds solace on Ngamba Island.

With Ngamba Island’s lush greenery and Serena surroundings as the backdrop, the 25th anniversary celebrations unfolded in grandeur. The event showcased the remarkable achievements of the chimpanzee Trust, highlighting their dedication to providing a safe heaven and a chance at a better life for orphaned and rescued chimpanzees.

Throughout the festivities, attendances were treated to a range of engaging activities designed to deepen their understanding and appreciation for these endangered primates. Interactive sessions and guided tours allowed participants to witness firsthand the intelligence, social dynamics, and playful interactions of the chimpanzee Trust also shed light on the pressing challenges faced by Chimpanzees in the wild.

Habitat loss, poaching, and the illegal wildlife trade continue to threaten their very existence.

Through this celebration, the organization sought to emphasize the importance of collective action and conservation efforts to ensure the survival of these sentient beings. As the MV NODL Victoria returned to the shores, it carried with it the spirit of camaraderie, unity, and hope. The Voyage symbolized the shared responsibility we all bear in protecting and preserving our planet’s biodiversity.

Ngamba Island’s 25th anniversary and the celebration of World Chimpanzee Day remind us that by coming together, we can make a profound impact on the lives of these magnificent creatures.

The MV NODL Victoria’s journey on this momentous day will forever be etched in the memories of those fortunate enough to be part of the celebration. It serves as a reminder of the invaluable work carried out by the Chimpanzee Trust and the enduring legacy of Ngamba Island.

Let us cherish this milestone and continue our unwavering commitment to safeguard the future of Chimpanzees and all the diverse species that grace our planet.

5 Best Road Trips in Uganda

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Road Tripping Uganda

Uganda is a beautiful country with a lot of interesting features that will reward you with an exciting experience. Whether you are option for Uganda self-drive or car rental with a driver, you will definitely enjoy your holiday through the Pearl of Africa.

Due to its improved road networks, Uganda provides breathtaking moments to travelers once they use the common routes that introduces them to stunning beautiful scenic views, wildlife species, different cultures and so much more. Most of Uganda’s road trips begin from Entebbe or Kampala, the country’s capital and the most popular city. In this article, we have detailed the different best road trips you can take to have a memorable time in the “Pearl of Africa”. These include;

Masindi to Murchison Falls National Park

This is the most popular route as it has a lot to offer to travelers on top of enjoying the beautiful scenic views especially when you reach Budongo Forest. The road is tarmacked and you will

While on this route, vehicles will in all ways slow down which gives a chance to the visitors to have close views at the nature especially the popular Murchison Falls, wildlife species and more. Visitors will be able to have a look at species like lions, giraffes, leopards, several species of birds, elephants and more.

Kampala – Fort Portal

Fort Portal is located in the Western part of Uganda and a road trip from Kampala to this part of the country is likely to take a 4-5 hours depending on the road traffic and condition. This route is one of the shortest and easiest route to the capital of primates in Uganda- Kibale Forest National Park. While on this trip, Visitors should expect to see a lot of beautiful scenic views such as tee plantations, different towns along the road, lush green vegetation and more.

The Gerald Portal monument on the main road gives a warm welcome to the visitors to Fort Portal. The hospitality of the Batooro people is another factor that makes this trip so memorable and amazing. There are a number of activities you can do while in Fort Portal and this makes it a must-visit destination for Ugandan history lovers and researchers.

Tooro kingdom is one of the attractions In Fort Portal. The city itself is a link to many tourist destinations in Uganda such as Semuliki National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Ntoroko section of Lake Albert, and Bigodi Sanctuary among others.

Kampala – Kabale Road Trip

Kabale is situated in the South West of Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. A road trip to Kabale will take you between 7-8 hours to reach your destination.

While on this road trip, the visitors will have an opportunity to have a close look at the beautiful scenery across the roadsides, the hills and valleys. Among the amazing features to see is the Equator, ranges with high altitudes which almost touch the sky, rugged terrains, and many more.

Still along your way to Kabale, you will get to visit a number of places such as Ngamba Chimpanzee sanctuary on Lake Victoria, Forest Park Resort at Buloba, Curatic Botanic Gardens and many more.

Kampala – Masindi Road Trip

Masindi is a small district located in the western part of Uganda. Masindi is estimated at 210.7km and is worth a 3-4hour drive. While on a road trip to Masindi, you will be able to see road side vendors and while here you can choose to buy a local snack. You will also be able to see towards River Kafu among other species like birds.

This is one of the most popular road trips in Uganda due to the fact that it leads visitors to a rich tourist area where most of the tourist destinations such as Murchison Falls National Park, Kinyara Sugar Works, Ajai game reserve, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Karuma Falls wildlife reserve, Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park and many more are found.

Kampala to Jinja Road Trip

This route is congested most of the times due to the fact that it is the main road for the country’s imports and exports. It is one of the shortest road trips in Uganda as it is only 79km and worth a 1hr and 10-minute drive.

While on this road trip, the visitors should lower the car windows especially when they reach Mabira Forest. This forest is Uganda’s largest and has a lot to offer to the visitors. Passing through this thick forest offers beautiful scenic views of different tree species, birds among others that give a great experience to the visitors.

Apart from Mabira forest, the route has other interesting features such as the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Center, Grandeur of the Nile, Uganda National Mosque, Uganda Museum, Jinja Bridge and many more.

Conclusion

The above road trips are just a few of the popular attractions to discover in Uganda. All you need is obtain a reliable car rental in Uganda and get to discover the backside on your own.

WE HAVE A NEW BABY GORILLA

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Julius Rwasheema
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An adult female gorilla in the Ruhija gorilla sector in Bwindi impenetrable national park gave birth to a healthy baby gorilla on Valentine’s (14th February 2023). The adult gorilla Tomvi (baby mama) is found in the Mukiza gorilla family led by Mukiza as the dominant silverback.

According to Uganda wildlife authority (UWA) the agency responsible for the conservation of all protected areas, the field team officers have been trying to get and see the baby but it’s being tightly guarded by the father and the mother. The newborn in the family of Mukiza gorilla family has increased the number of individuals in the family to 19 UWA officials said.

They further attributed the little bundle of joy to the active, curious, and effort of many years of successful conservation. We as explore Uganda tours we applaud Uganda wildlife authority for its continued tireless efforts of conservation to see that these already endangered species of apes don’t go extinct. Both the baby and mother are in good health so this is the breakdown of the Mukiza gorilla family in the Ruhija gorilla sector northern part of Bwindi impenetrable national park. 1 male silverback called Mukiza, 6 female adults, 3 sub-adults 3 juveniles, and 4 infants.

 

Car Rental Tips And Vacation Destinations For First Time Travelers In Uganda

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budget car rental uganda

Visiting Uganda for the first time can be overwhelming as you have a lot to put together to achieve a successful road trip. Achieving a successful safari holiday in a destination such as Uganda involves finding a means of transportation and car hire services have proven to be the easiest, safest, and most affordable options for travelers to connect to their tourist sites on Uganda safaris.

Renting a car in Uganda and embarking on a road trip to your destination comes with its own benefits and disadvantages. When hiring a car in Uganda for the first time or second time, requires some keenness and this article brings to you a list of tips to guide plan a successful road trip while also saving a lot on your vacation –self-drive or guided tours.

Car rental tips and vacation destinations for first-time travelers in Uganda

Book your car rental in advance

If you want to save on the car hire cost, then consider hiring a car in Uganda is advance. Do not wait till the last minute when your trip is starting and start running around looking for a car to use for your road trip. Get in touch with our reservation early enough and have your rental car booked in advance. Booking a car rental should be done at least 2-3 months before the actual date of visiting Uganda for a vacation.

Don’t confine yourself to rental cars at the airport

Hiring a car at the airport may cost you much compared to if you did it with a car rental company outside the airport. Airport car hire service providers do incur surcharges, which are likely to be paid by clients. When you book a rental car or a trip with a car rental company or tour operator outside Entebbe International Airport (EBB), you can even be picked up and dropped off at your hotel in Entebbe City or Kampala at no cost.

Carryout thorough check on the vehicle

Before you hit the road using any rental car, first, you must be certain that the car you are going to use doesn’t have damages. Any issues concerning dents, scratches, bumps and others must be critically checked and taken note of. They should also be reported to the operator to avoid incurring a cost afterward when you aren’t the one who caused them. You can even take pictures and share them with the car hire agency you might have rented a car from.

Rent a car that is insured

Do not rent a car in Uganda without knowledge that it is insured. Insurance policies are observed and when renting a car, inquire from the car hire agency you plan to rent the car from if their vehicles are insured. Choose a company whose rental cars are under comprehensive insurance.

Compare car hire prices

Have adequate time to research the different rates for car hire and make comparisons before you consider dealing with any. Different car rental agencies set different prices for their vehicle and rates differ from one company to another. Comparing different agencies’ car rental services and rates will help you narrow down the best that you can deal with.

Hire a car from a reliable & reputable company

Hundreds of car hire service providers exist all over Kampala and across other cities in Uganda. Consider dealing with a reputable company, recognized in the sense that it is registered by the government and you can also check through the sites, and read through reviews to have an idea of what other travelers have said about the same company you plan to deal with.

Best places to visit in Uganda

If you are visiting Uganda for the first time, then here are some of the must-visit places;

Mountain Biking Around Uganda

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Mountain Biking in Uganda

Mountain biking. The sport has been embraced worldwide hitting the mainstream in the past 20 years when bike manufacturers realised the growing popularity of the sport and began producing bicycles specifically suited to rough trails.

What is it? And how does it differ from regular bicycling? True to its name, mountain biking originated with people wanting to take bicycling from the streets to rougher and more challenging trails in the mountains. As the sport developed almost all off-road trail riding is now known as ‘mountain biking’ and now usually relates to the type of bicycle used. Mountain bikes have different tires, frames, breaks and gears which make them more durable and better able to handle rough terrain.

Given Uganda’s beautiful and vast wild places it makes the country a mountain bikers dream. A number of people in Kampala ride trails that are dotted around Lake Victoria, in Entebbe, or in Jinja. Even just a quick jaunt off the main road will often provide mountain bikers with a vast number of roads and trails to explore.

If you’re at all interested in the sport, a perfect introduction to mountain biking is coming up on December 8-9, 2012. The second annual Sipi Falls Mountain Bike Race is open to everyone and is just a few short weeks away.  While entering a race might seem daunting this one is really just for fun with only a few hardcore competitors racing to the end in 1:34 hours.

The race itself follows a course that is 19km long and mostly off-road with a small bit of tarmacked road. It offers a few fast and technical sections but mostly some great climbs and downhills past breathtaking scenery including beautiful vistas and cliffs.

It’s best to take your own mountain bike and helmet (a MUST!) but if you don’t have one contact Sipi River Lodge and they can possibly help arrange something for you. You can find their webpage here: http://www.sipiriverlodge.com/bikerace.htm or their Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/events/419181801461508/.

How to get there? Take the Kampala-Jinja Road through Jinja toward Mbale. Turn left 5km after you pass through Iganga. Drive time is about 4.5 hours on good roads with the only bad patch being right outside Mbale.  You’ll want to make a weekend of it if you go to the race as it’s on beautiful Mt. Elgon and there there’s also plenty to do besides mountain biking and Sipi River Lodge is offering a 50% discount on rock climbing or abseiling that weekend. Rooms at the Lodge book quickly but they are also offering a camping special for that weekend only at $10 USD per night. Contact the Lodge for more details: http://www.sipiriverlodge.com/contact.htm

If you can’t make the race or would prefer something closer to home, Nile River Explorers offers mountain biking tours in/around Jinja and through Mabira Forest. Find out more here: http://raftafrica.com/site/other-activities/mountain-biking.html.

When mountain biking it is important to remember that you will often be far from civilisation so bring durable clothes, sunscreen, a hat, water, and a first aid kit. A helmet is also a must as bumps and spills are inevitable. If you aren’t travelling with a guide a GPS, map, or GPS app on your phone could prove helpful if you lose your way.

The last piece of advice is to have fun – a prerequisite for any adventure lover!

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Experiences

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Mountain gorillas are subspecies of primate animals called gorillas. Gorillas are the largest great apes left in the world which live in the tropical...
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Experience Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

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Mountain gorillas are subspecies of primate animals called gorillas. Gorillas are the largest great apes left in the world which live in the tropical...

5 Amazing Things to Do in Budongo Forest

Julius Rwasheema - 0
Budongo forest is one of the largest conserved forest areas in Uganda covering an area of 841 square kilometers. Located with Murchison falls national...
canopy in Nyungwe NP

Journey to Explore Rwanda’s National Parks

Julius Rwasheema - 0
Rwanda is a small and landlocked country boarding east African countries. It is bordered by Tanzania in the east, Uganda in the north, Burundi...
East Africa Safari

Things to Do in East Africa

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Ballooning Mountain Climbing – Rock Climbing & Mountain Biking. this is done in Mr. Rwenzori national park in Uganda, Mount Kilimanjaro national park...
Lake Bunyonyi

Holiday at Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda

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Lake Bunyonyi is one of the most scenic places in Uganda famous to travelers who take a circuit to the attractions in the western...

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