Why travel to Uganda? Well, let’s begin with the safaris, they are amazing and adrenaline-kicking! Travel to southwestern Uganda and adventure into the misty Jungles of Bwindi forest in search of the last surviving Mountain gorillas.
Are you interested in wildlife safaris? Uganda national parks boast an extensive list of wildlife species including the popular Big Five (Leopard, Hippo, Elephant, Lion & Buffalo ) with a record of up to 1050 bird species will make any ardent birder marvel. And that’s not all, adventure junkies will surely enjoy white water rafting on the grade 5 Nile river rapids, Kayaking, Bungee jumping plus a hike to the legendary Rwenzori mountains, a famous World Heritage site whose highest peak Margherita is ranked 4th in Africa.
Are you a cultural enthusiast, then get ready to be blown away by the diverse heterogeneous tribes with unique ways of living, marriage, cultural backgrounds, beliefs and so much more, and if that’s not enough Uganda declared the “Pearl Of Africa” has beautiful and breathtaking landscapes, rivers (Nile), lakes (Victoria & Bunyonyi), falls (Murchison & Sipi) all significant and unique in their own way. Add all that to the friendly people and safe political climate and you will definitely have to safari to Uganda.
8 WAYS TO ENJOY YOUR SAFARI
- Choose an Activity or Adventure you like
When you think of Uganda, what activity first crosses your mind? Is it white water rafting on Africa’s longest river, Gorilla trekking in the jungles of Bwindi, Wildlife game drives in the savannah plains, hopping on a plane and flying to the remote Kidepo valley national park, bungee jumping, Launch cruise on Kazinga channel, Hiking mountain Rwenzori or Elgon or a cultural trip around Kampala city? It’s always advisable to first make a decision about what you want even before contacting a travel agent.
- Sample Ugandan Life
There’s no better way to do this than by having a one-day tour around Kampala city. Here you will get a chance to meet and greet locals, go shopping in malls and markets, visit top cultural sites like the Kasubi tombs, cultural village, King’s palace plus so many more places and by the time you are done with this tour, you will get used to people, weather and conditions.
- Visit a Traditional Ceremony
Uganda is blessed with over 15 tribes, each with unique traditional cultures, norms, and ways of living hence different traditional ceremonies. It could be a circumcision, wedding, baptism or Kings annual anniversary; There is always a party going on almost every week in Uganda and so you will have to alert your tour guide about this, You will be amused by the colorful African decorations, dressing and items and more so by the local music selection and artful way of dancing of energetic performers.
- Take early morning Safari Drives
Early morning game drives present perfect opportunities to watch early risers like lions and leopards and also get a chance to see nocturnal species searching for a quiet place to hibernate plus it’s much cooler in the morning and so animals are very active, don’t be surprised if you watch a morning fight for dominance.
- Good Quality Cameras & Binoculars
Bring along good quality cameras and binoculars, Chances of spotting a predator stalking and attacking its prey or fighting each other are always high and so it’s advisable to be ready with your binoculars, cameras with backup batteries, and film so as not to miss this once in a lifetime opportunity. Company guides and UWA guides normally carry around a pair in case you don’t have binoculars.
- Choose the Dry season-
The dry seasons from June – September, and December to February are considered the best time to travel to Uganda for those interested in game viewing. It normally rains in Bwindi and so those who want to track gorillas should always be prepared for a little rain while in the Jungles
- Wear Insect Repellents & Long Clothes at Night
Always remember to wear insect repellent at night, Put on long-sleeved shirts or coats and long trousers to avoid mosquito bites and also keep yourself warm from the ever blowing camp cool wind. It’s also advisable to carry along some of your own medication in case of an emergency, You will definitely enjoy your safari better without any interruption from an illness.
- Be Patient
Watching rare and common wildlife species requires your patience and attention, Don’t get anxious and excited, relax and be on the lookout with your binoculars and camera ready. Enjoy your safari conveniently without many expectations but with just patience.
