When planning a trip to  Uganda  it is important that you do some thorough research before you holiday. You’ll have to get details of necessary travel requirements like Visa, immunization and holiday packages which are all available on the internet.

One sure way to beat the stress of planning a holiday is by choosing a good Uganda travel agent or Uganda tour operator. That travel agent must have absolute knowledge of the travel destination you want on your holidays and also have good connection with service providers in that country. Getting the services of a travel agent does not entirely off load the tasks of arranging a holiday but makes it rather easier. Here are some of the things to ask yourself or the travel agent before you hire a travel agent to do all the planning work.

Travel documentation; the travel agent you choose must be aware of the travel procedures and documents required for tourists going to a particular country. What does the country policy have for travel insurance, Visas, passports, immunization and medication examination? Your travel agent must inform you in advance and help you with all the required travel information before your arrival.

Flights to Uganda and travel; this is a major part of any holiday arrangement that a travel agent has influence on. How do you intend to travel to your destination…using world class airlines, direct flights or cheap airlines with stops in different airports around the World? Your travel preference must fit within your budget and thus a travel agent will give you world travel tips and how to adjust your travel arrangements to fit into your budget before you do the booking. Remember to put your preferences and desires across as you work with your travel agent

Holiday itinerary and adventures; Coming up with the best things to do for a particular holiday is almost 60% of your holiday planning exercise. Ask for travel agent for any advantages of choosing particular activities over others and how changes in travel plans may affect the holiday budget. Any changes made during the holiday should have no financial impact on the holiday arrangements. Make inquiries on what you do not understand on say tickets, entry fees for visiting certain places and hidden charges! The holiday itinerary should specifically reflect your preferences and the places you like to visit the most! There are options for car hire in Uganda as soon as you arrive at Entebbe Airport-other options are available from tour companies and safari companies.

Hotels and accommodation is very important in having the best holiday. Ensure that the travel agent knows the hotel you have chosen for advice on the location, range of tourist facilities there, type of accommodation, any holiday packages given by the hotels, meals and dining, airport transfer and taxi, use of credit cards, reservation fees and any costs that could arise during your stay!

Finally, you don’t want to work with a travel agent who doesn’t respect your preferences and is nagging. Travel agents or tour operators must be registered under some umbrella travel associations as this guarantees professional service delivery

The number one travel rule is insisting on your travel preferences and that gets you a customized holiday plan. Compromising your interests will affect your holiday expectations while seeking the advice of recent travellers on the best travel agents in a particular country makes work easier!

There are several tourist operators and travel agent that can arrange the perfect holiday to Uganda  and some of the tailored packages include honeymoons in Uganda, wildlife safaris, water adventures like kayaking, boating on Lake Victoria, Uganda Holidays and religious tours/pilgrimages to holy places and temples  in Kampala Uganda. You can actually book a holiday with family, friends or for a weekend to one of the countries in East Africa.

Finding a car to use on your safari tours and holidays in Africa is a vital decision in planning for a holiday. Some of the most important considerations  for car rentals include spacious car for family vacations, pop up roofed cars for safari game drives and most of all comfort for your journey whether the decision is a rugged terrain or not!

Likewise, hiring a car in Uganda requires that you make as many decisions. Many tourists consider just the size of the car. Some new recommendations for choosing a good car for hire on Uganda Safaris may include choosing a car with environmental friendly usage on fuel, other add-on packages from the car rental packages, terms and conditions among other details.  Many car rentals and car hire companies have such information and details given online.

Tips on booking Cars in Uganda

While making your car booking, think of the time you will have the car under your use. If your safari is longer than a week, seek packages from the local travel agents with car hire services since they have an idea of costs on fuel that could last you for your entire safari tour. Longer durations on car hire have advantages of cheaper car rental packages with extras such as fuel and supplies!

There are many car hire companies in Uganda with several cars available for both short and longer safaris. You must make a comparison of the rates charges by different companies by looking online, checking with travel magazines and asking your tour guide/ tour operator for advice on companies with the cheapest car hire services.

After making a comparison, you can now make your booking online or on spot at the company offices. Remember to ask for discounts and cars that suit your taste and holiday specifications like the baggage, number of people on board and so much more.

It wise to have an idea of the cost of car hire and rentals before you make your booking. Car hire rates are normally complied with inner charges such as airport pick-ups and transfers, local taxes, Travel insurance, fuel prices and driver’s fees. Knowing the effects of all these costs on the final charge for car hire help you make your bargain out right. At the same time, keeping records of such extra costs helps you make your holiday within your budget! However, cheap is not always good…the charges on car hire should always offer value for money!

Remember to rent the car at a time when it is not too late. Normally, it is essential to spend a day or two with your hired car before you take it on safari trips in the countryside. Why is this important?  Having you car before your trips gives you time to test the car’s credibility and also get familiar with its operations. You don’t want to get stranded in Uganda’s villages simply because the gear got faulty! Also never rush for last minute car hire because you’ll more than likely have the worst experience with a faulty car for your trip

Check for the mechanical condition of the car of your choice before payment. Things like leaving roofs, car locks, engine condition and car lights should be inspected in your presence. In case of damages, have a consensus and agreement otherwise you might end paying for damage that has been on the car for a long time! Of you are travelling to the hills of south western Uganda; consider hiring a tour van with 4WD over a saloon car. Most of Uganda’s roads are gravel with occasional pot holes nd are slippery after the rains thus you need a robust car no matter what.

Avoid refilling your hired car at a fuel station near Entebbe Airport. Like in other countries, these fuel stations always that inflated fuel prices that may upset your budget plans. When returning the car after the period of car hire, make sure you refill the fuel tank to the amount you used. This is important if you found the car already refilled-otherwise not necessary if you agreed to foot the fuel costs yourself.

There are many advantages associated with car hire and rentals when travelling in Uganda-it doesn’t matter whether it is for business, holidays or personal use. Car hire affords you flexibility, freedom and comfort. Although you might get more for using your own car, it is not feasible to your car tread the rugged hills and pot holes on Uganda’s roads.

Many tour companies have car hire services but we recommend reliable facilities at international firms like Hertz, Euopcar and Avis although they come at a higher price. Cheap car rentals are often available from tour operators in Uganda but consider options like a tour guide for your driver or get a chauffer driven car. Everyone wants to make savings on holidays and safaris in Uganda but be wise on how you deal with car hires and rentals.

Semliki National Park is located in south western Uganda border with its borders extending into DR Congo and on the edge of the western arm of the Great Rift Valley of East Africa. It the only park in Uganda that is entirely located on 220 sq km of  lowland landscape majorly covered in dense tropical forests of Ituri that extends from neighboring Congo, papyrus swamps, wetlands and savannah grasslands.

Semliki has one of the most diverse eco-systems with a rich population of wild animals, birds and flora. To the south east of the park are the snow peaks of Rwenzori Mountains that make a spectacular sight for all tourists that visit the park during the dry season.

The Sempaya Hot Springs

The major attractions within the park are the hot springs at Sempaya. The legendary hot springs are classified into the female and male hot springs. A guided forest walk leads to the hot water springs boiling with bubbles and are protected by a swamp. They are believed to have healing powers and special guidelines are issued to all visitors.

The largest spring is a geyser that spouts hot water through a low salt sculpture to some 2m high. To the people living around Sempaya, this hot spring is called the Male Hot spring. The female hot spring is just an open pool of water located a few kilometers from the male spring. The water at both springs is very hot-not less than 100ºC.

A boat ride from Sempaya River is a great way to discover the hot springs and its birds. You can actually boil an egg in hot water and it will be ready in 10 minutes

Wildlife

During the rainy seasons of March to May, September to December, the rivers and small streams in the park flood make a great habitat for migrant birds coming from Congo and neighboring countries. Some of the common species in the park include long tailed hawk, Nkulengu rail, African dwarf kingfishers, ground thrushes, crested fly catcher, lemon bellied crombec, yellow throated nicator, African goshawk, great sparrows and cassin Spinetail among many other species. The park is estimated to be a home to nearly 350 species of birds.

The park is also a habitat for more than 50 mammals such as elephants, buffalo, wild pig, sitatunga, duiker, zenker’s flying mouse, squirrels, little collared bat, target bat and primate species such as red tailed monkeys, olive baboon, vervet monkeys,grey checked mangabey, Guereza colobus, chimpanzees and many other mammals. An estimated 30 species of butterflies and 200 moths were also recorded in the park.

Getting there

The park is located off the Fort Portal-Bundibugyo highway. The route from Fort portal is 52km to the Sempaya gate taking nearly 2 and half hours drive. The gate is clearly marked with a sign post. The route from Kampala via Masaka to Fortportal is the best for countryside tours in Uganda although longer. You can make stops at the equator, Lake Mburo National park, Kyambura forest reserve and Queen Elizabeth National Park before proceeding to Bundibugyo district-normally takes 8 hours

The park’s headquarter are located at Ntandi, 5km on the road to Bundibugyo. Remember to use strong 4WD for your country safaris since the roads are rugged and bumpy. If you are using public transports such as taxi or buses, you can board a pickup or arrange private transfers from Fort portal to Sempaya gate. Early departures from the park are recommended for day tourists using public transport are recommended since the road is in poor shape with some extreme corners to negotiate.

Activities

The trail to Sempaya hot springs leads you through the wet slippery walks in the forests and swamps, watching birds and butterflies along the trail.

Other activities within Semliki National park include birding, safari game walks, hiking and forest walks. Taking walks and trips is the forests should de done with a ranger guide for safety reasons. There are no roads within the park but it is important to use the designated trails and paths for your tours

Take cultural tours within the pygmy peoples that live at Ntandi near the park’s headquarters. Some of the pygmy tribes found her include the Bakonjo and Bamba  that boost an interesting lifestyle…food, culture and dance!

Accommodation

There aren’t any major facilities at the park but the ranger post at Sempaya has a self catering campsite. There is a campsite at Bumaga near the gate at Sempaya offering accommodation in two executive suites and tents for hire on outdoor camping trips. It is recommend that you carry own supplies and a camping tent. Other area designated for camping include the camp near the ox bow lakes and another at the river crossing if Kirumia

There is a canteen at the camping site selling a few items, soft drinks and has a cook to make meals on order. Once again, carry all supplies including food, fuel, drinking water, utensils and anything else you might need because restocking on supplies is done in Fort Portal or Bundibugyo towns.

Kidepo National park is a charm when it comes to Uganda wildlife safaris although it is located in the remote parts of northern Uganda. It is actually the least visited park in Uganda yet it is home to some animals of the dry savanna that you won’t find in any other part of Uganda.
The 1,442sq km park is found in the rugged dry Karamoja region in northern Uganda mainly occupied by dry savannah grassland, Mount Morungole standing at 2,750m and crossed by two rivers Kidepo and Narus that nourish the park’s wildlife and this natural habitat as a whole.
The park occupies the most fertile region on northern Uganda, Kidepo/Narus Valley between the peaks of mountains from Sudan and Uganda. It was gazetted as a forest reserve in 1961 and has since gained National park status celebrating a spring of life in the semi desert regions.
The park is good for safari game drives, nature walks and bird watching but there has be an armed ranger or guard for all these trips.
Getting there
There are public buses and taxi that travel to northern Uganda through the districts of Soroti, Moroto and then to Kaboong with far fees. The trip by road takes 12 hours from Kampala. There is an airstrip near Kidepo Valley for charter flights to and from Northern Uganda.
Wildlife
The park is home to several species of birds and animals that are endemic to the semi desert weather. Some of the species found in Kidepo National park are not found in any other part of Uganda. The rivers of Narus and Kidepo are a spring of life in the park, attracting herds of elephants, buffalos, greater kudu, and predators like lion, leopard, bat-eared fox, cheetah and many other animals to the river bank during the dry season. An estimated 86 species of wild animals are found in Kidepo Park. Other animals in the park include giraffe, zebra, beisa oryx, kob, bush baby, side stripped jackal, grant’s gazelle, klipspringer, Senegal galago, white tailed mongoose, carcal and many others. Game viewing is excellent all through the year but March and April are good months for safari game drives.
The park is also a habitat for more than 400 different species of birds, many of them water birds like chest nut crowned sparrow weavers, Africna grey fly catcher, Abyssinia ground, karamoja Appalis, yellow necked spurfowl, stone partridge, black breasted barbet, rose ringed parakeet and the little green bee eater…to mention a few. Bird watching as thus is excellent during the rainy season and around the river banks for the dry months.
Kidepo Hotels and Accommodation
Since the park receives a few tourists every year, there are a few facilities for its tourists. Apoka private luxury Lodge is built near the Narus Valley region with fully furnished rooms with a good view of the valley and wildlife. Kakine Campsite is for the budget travelers with basic accommodation, drinking water, firewood and toilets but tourist have to take own camping equipment.
There are also a few bandas with drinking water, bed with mosquito nets and hot shower however tourists need to carry food and supplies on their trip.

In Uganda is placed the largest lake in the world…Lake Victoria.  This fresh water lake is typically identified as Nyanza, is without a doubt two times the entire area of Wales and additionally provides the natural boundary between Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
The lake stands out as the heart on the African continent, the source of its longest river, the Nile. Around the 1800s, the question on the River Nile was one among the outstanding mystery of African quest. Subsequent to various unsuccessful journeys, John Hanning Speke eventually reached these shores during 1858. The Nile moves towards the north, moving the waters of Nyanza to Egypt and beyond into the Mediterranean.

Sights and Sounds

This specific mighty lake is full of different fish types with shimmering shoals of colourful cichlids in addition to large Nile Perch. Nyanza province stands out as the settlement of the Luo, a group known as formidable fisherman. Fishing brings a lot of guests to the lake, mostly in search of the Nile Perch, regarded as a world class game fish. You can find three detached fishing lodges located on islands within Victoria.
Kisumu is mostly a calm port on the lakeshore which has vast streets and also exceptional colonial buildings. To the south, fishing villages can be found along the lake in direction of the broad waters of Homa Bay. This particular region is home to Ruma National Park, a smaller sized but attractive park habited by different wildlife. The right way for you to value the splendor of this spot is at the lake itself.

The sun shines brightly and gentle breezes blow on the water. Around the trees along the shore, Fish Eagles sing to one another with the help of long haunting cries. The setting sun set the water to gold while the local fisherman in their fishing boats pull in their fishing nets and over time making for home. Lutembe bay is a wetland swamp on the shores of Lake Victoria located off the Kampala-Entebbe Highway popularly known for its birds. Other birding sites on the lake include the botanical gardens and the Ssese Islands.

Catch a ferry or hire a charter boat to the spectacular Ssese Islands for a treat of the best beaches in Uganda. Ngamba Island is also another island to visit on the lake, synonymous with the Ngamba Chimpanzee sanctuary.

Getting there

Major road accessibility to Lake Victoria is through Kisumu, straight through Nairobi by way of bus/matatu or private vehicle. Kisumu can also be within reach using rail from Nairobi. There is certainly an airport within Kisumu having scheduled flights. Lake Victoria is surrounding in Uganda is the Entebbe International Airport(EBB). Charters can also make use of the airport. There’s some personalized airstrip for Mfangano Island. From Kisumu there’s some route entry on the Lake, south to Homa Bay. Ferries and Private Boats are put into use to access the islands.

This park covers an area equal to 1279sq km on the border of Uganda and Kenya on the foot slopes of Mount Elgon. On the Kenyan side the park occupies 163sq km while the larger area of the park is found on the Uganda side.

Mount Elgon

This mountain is an extinct volcano on the border of Uganda and Kenya located 140km north of the vast Lake Victoria. It is the fourth largest mountain in Africa standing at 4321m above sea level. in Uganda it is the second highest peak at Wagagai after Margherita on the Rwenzori.

The mountain’s rugged peaks are crowned with a crater lake at the top, waterfalls such as sipi and is an important water catchment for East Africa

The slopes of the mountain are covered in dense montane forests but giant lobelia and groundsel cover the rock on the high altitude. The mountain is a classified bio-diverse region with more than 300  species of exotic plants including the Elgon olive trees.

Wildlife  and Attractions

There are many mammals living in Mount Elgon national Park. Some of the animals in the bamboo forests include White & Black colobus, Blue monkeys, Elephants, buffalo, duiker, hyena, chameleons and others

There are more than 100 species of birds in the park including Turaco, African go shawk, white winged sunbirds, crown hornbill, Jackson’s francolin, lammergeyer, Baglafecht weaver and many others.The Maathai long legged dragon fly was discovered at the mountain slopes and named after the Nobel Prize winner late Wangari Mathaai for her undying efforts on environmental conservation.

Other attractions in the park include Mt Elgon caves, waterfalls, hot springs, rivers, hanging cliffs and many other interesting sights at the peak. Hiking is a favorite adventure on the mountain on two well maintained trails. The entire hiking trail Wagagai Peak takes nearly 4-5 days. Hiking and touring the park is good during the dry season that starts in June to August and later in December to March.

Accommodation

There is basic accommodation and camping at Kapwakwai in the park while a number of campsitesa re located on the five stops on Mt Elgon Hiking trails. Private equipment such as sleeping bags, tents is used on camping adventures

Kampala has more hotels and overnight accommodation facilities than you can ever imagine. if you are a tourist and i have finally decided on Uganda safaris, you need not worry about where you’ll stay when you arrive in Kampala.

There is every thing from luxury five star hotels with swimming pool, health spa, gym, well furnished rooms with 24/7 telephone and satellite TV, business center, gift shops and spacious lounge. Of course dinning and foods meet international standards
There are also standard up-market Kampala Hotels like Speke Hotel, Tourist hotel and Equatorial where you’ll stay within the heart of the busy city centre and savor Kampala night life.

Emin Pasha
7 Akii Bua Road, Nakasero
Tel: (0414)236977-9   (0414) 236 231.
Email: info@eminpasha.com.
Website: www.eminpasha.com

Sheraton Hotel
Ternan Ave.
Tel:(0414)344590-6,
Fax:(041)256696,
E-mail: Sheraton@apolohotel.com

Equatoria Hotel
William Street.
Tel: (0414)250781-5.
Africana Hotel
2-4 Wampewo Avenue
Tel: (0414) 348080-6.

Athina Club
30 Windsor Crescent, Kololo
Tel: (0414) 341428,
Fax: (041) 236089
E-mail: athina@infocom.co.ug.

Dolphin Suites
36 Princess Anne Drive, Bugolobi.
Tel: (0414) 505652/3/5, Fax: (041) 505656.
E-mail: dolphin@infocom.co.ug

Fairway Hotel
1/2 Kafu Road.
Tel: (0414) 259571/4,
(0414) 257171/2.

Fang Fang Hotel
9 Ssezibwa Road, Nakasero.
Tel: (0414) 235828, (0414) 233115, Fax: (041) 233620, (0414) 250422.

Diplomat Hotel
Tank Hill, Muyenga. Tel/Fax: (041) 267625.
E-mail: diplomat@spacenetuganda.com

Forest Cottages
Plot 17/18 Old Kira Road.
Tel: 0414-287308 / 0312-261277/8/9. Mobile: 0772-430819. Fax: 041 534092
Email: Info@forest-cottages.com
Website: www.forest-cottages.com

American Recreation Association
Makindye Hill Road,
Tel: (0414) 510290, (0392) 767033.
E-mail: ara@africaonline.co.ug.

Grand Imperial Hotel
Nile Ave.
Tel: (0414) 250681-8, Fax: (041) 250606.
E-mail: imperial@starcom.co.ug

Havanah Hotel
28 Mackay Rd. Tel: (0414) 250762,
(0414) 343532.

Hotel International 2000 Ltd
Tank Hill Road, Muyenga.
Tel: (0414) 510200/1/4, Fax: (041) 510203.

Holiday Express Hotel
Luwum Street, Uganda.
Tel: + 256 0312 262858/9. Fax: +256 041 252665. Mobile: 0772 669218.
Website: www.holidayexpresshotel.com

Lindsay Cottages
Entebbe Road.
Tel: (0414) 200475,
(0414) 200587.

Kampala Inn
92, Kira Rd. Tel: (0414) 540448,
0772 443594.

Serena Hotel
Plot 6/8 Nile Avenue.
Tel: 0414 309000. Fax: 041 259130.
Email: kampala@serena.co.ug

Hotel Le Bougainviller
1-7, Katazamiti Rd. Bugolobi,
Tel: (0414) 220966, 0712 110555,
Email: hotel@bougainviller.com

Miami Club
Tank hill Rd, Muyenga. Tel: (0414) 267571,
0772 447424,
Email: maimiclubug@yahoo.com

Mamba Point
22 Akii Bua Road, Nakasero.
Tel: (0312) 563000, 0772 243225.

Namirembe Guest House
Namirembe Hill, 1085
Willis Rd. Tel: (0414) 273778, (0414) 273981, 0772 423594.
Fax: (041) 273904.

Paradise Bird In
Muyenga Busabala Close.
Tel: 0782 201209.
Email: bira@aol.com

Shangri-la Hotel
8 Ternan Ave.
Tel: (0414) 250366, (0414) 250372, 0772 619755.
Fax: (041) 236212.

International Landmark Hotel – Muyenga Rd.
Tel: (0414) 268570, 0712 473274,
Email: reception@internationallandmarkhotel.com
Kabira Country Club
Plot 63, Old Kira Road, Bukoto, Tel: 0312 227222/3. Fax: 0312 227226.
Email: kabiracountryclub@kabiracountryclub.com

Speke Hotel
7/9 Nile Avenue. Tel: (0414) 235332/5, 259221,
Fax: (041) 235345. E-mail: speke@spekehotel.com

Tourist Hotel
Market Street. Tel: (0414) 251471/2,
Fax: (041) 251473.

Restaurants in Kampala

Afro Caribbean Restaurants
Sankofa Cafe
16 Sezibwa Rd.
Tel: 0772 529688, 0752 535927.

Belgian Le Chateau
142 Ggaba Road, Kabalagala.
Tel: (0414) 510404. Fax: (041) 510465. Open 7 days

Pavement
Bugolobi, Tel: (0414) 223503, 0752 366537

Shanghai
8/10 Ternan Avenue. Tel: (0414) 250366,
(0414) 250372, 0772 619755.

2 Friends
Jackson Crescent Plot 5/6, Jinja.
Tel: 0772 984821. Fax: 043 122 999.
Email: post@2friends.info. Website: www.2friends.info
Aminaz Garden Place – Plot 31 Acacia Avenue, Kololo, Uganda.

Tel: 0414 500533/4. Mobile: 0712 800045.
Email: aminazgardenplace@yahoo.co.uk
website: www.hotelsinuganda.com/aminaz.html

Blue Africa
Crested Towers. Tel: (0414) 233506, (0312) 264442.

Bubbles O’Leary -**Irish Pub, 30 Windsor Crescent.
Tel: (0312) 263815. E-mail: bubblesoleary@infocom.co.ug

Café Ballet- 34c Kyadondo Road, Nakasero
Tel: 0414 234 190.
Mobile: 0752 311 661. Email: cafeballet@one2netmail.co.ug

Crocodile
21 Cooper Road, Kisementi. Tel: (0414) 254593,
0772 486630.
Faze2
10 Nakasero Road. Tel: (0392) 700815, 0772 345808.

Hippo Grill
Sheraton Hotel. Tel: (0414) 344590-9.
Buffet breakfast 7-10:30am, Dinner 7-11pm.

Just Kicking
Pub Lunches and Dinners, Kisementi, Kololo.
Tel: (0414) 235134, 0772 775775.

Kampala Casino
1st floor, Pan Africa House,
3 Kimathi Avenue. Tel: (0414) 343628/343630.

Kasalina’s
4Speke Road (opp main post office).
Tel: (0312) 612419, 0752 595555.

Kati Kati
Lugogo By-pass. Tel: (0414) 236008, 0712 810350

La Fontaine
6 Bukoto Street. Tel: 0772 406197.
Open from 10am-11pm. Closed on Saturdays.

Mateo ’s
13 Parliament Ave. Tel: (0414) 340840.

Uganda is found in east Africa in what is popularly referred to as the richest safari region in Africa. It shares its boundaries with Kenya in the east, Tanzania in the south, Rwanda in the south western mountain borders, DR Congo in the west and southern Sudan for the north. Uganda is a least visited African Safari destination when compared to its neighbors Kenya and Tanzania or even South Africa.

Uganda tourist Attractions

One may wonder why Uganda is called the Pearl of Africa, and for sure this is not a self proclaimed title! This is more to enjoy on Uganda wildlife safaris than you can imagine! Sir Winston Churchhill saw more of Uganda’s diversity and we recommend that you check out some of them as listed below

Kampala is a bustling city at the heart of Uganda, a few kilometers from the shores of Lake Victoria. It is the capital city of Uganda with some of the famous sights and sounds like the Kabaka’s lake, Uganda Martyrs’ Shrine in Namugongo, the world Heritage site at Kasubi Royal Tombs, busy markets and more attraction. You can book a guide to take you around Kampala City.  Other famous towns in Uganda include the adventure town of Jinja on the shores on Lake Victoria in the east, Mbale in the East, Mbarara in the south west and Gulu in the hotter northern region.

Uganda’s National parks and reserves are the major tourist draw card. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest Park takes centre stage of Uganda safari and is a favorite for all tourist inn Uganda. Other interesting parks to visit include Mgahinga Gorilla Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, Lake Mburo, Murchison Falls and Kidepo Valley Park in the semi-arid north eastern Part of Uganda. There are several other Uganda National parks to visit just in case you have a week to explore them all!

Lake Victoria in the southern part of Uganda marks a natural boundary with Kenya and Tanzania. It is the largest Fresh water lake in the world with isolated beaches and some lush forests on the shoreline. Within the lake are beautiful islands like Sese Islands and the famous Ngamba Island for chimpanzee tracking. If you enjoy fishing, Lake Victoria has more than 10 different fish species with record breaking Nile Perch.

Things to Do

Visit the adventure town of Jinja and you’ll be consumed by the wide variety of Uganda safari activities. You may go rafting at Bujagali Falls, dry Bungee jumping, Quad biking, swimming, sport fishing, boating, hiking to the falls like Sezibwa in Mukono district and picnics at Mabira Forest on the kampala Jinja Highway.

Other interesting activities on Uganda tours include Hiking to the snow capped Rwenzori peaks, gorilla tracking in Bwindi, Mgahinga hiking, birding at Lake Bunyonyi, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park, experience the diverse culture of Uganda people from Ndere Center, eating and dining at the different Restaurant and so much more!

Weather

Uganda is a friendly place to be when it comes to weather. It is in the equatorial belt of Africa with very pleasant conditions. The wet season begins in March to May and the shorter rains come around late October and December. The shores of Lake Victoria receive more rain than any other part in central Uganda with the long rains ending in June. South Western Uganda is a cool place that receives rains all through the year

The dry season is from December to February and later from June to September. The north is quite dry with temperatures reaching 30◦C in towns like Gulu and Lira.

Getting there

Entebbe international airport on the shore of Lake Victoria is the man entry point with Entebbe flights from different destinations in Africa. Fliers to Entebbe include South African Airways, emirates, Kenya airways, Ethiopian Airlines, British Airways, Turkish Airlines, SN Brussels and Egypt Air among others.

You can travel by train from Kenya or Tanzania or come by road on passenger bus via the border at Busia or Malaba from Kenya. There are also buses to Juba in southern Sudan, to Kigali, Bujumbura and Dar es-salaam.

Travelling in Kampala is a lot easy, there are private car and trucks for rent, use the motor cycles used Boda Boda, commuter taxi travel to all destinations in Uganda and there are also buses to the distant parts of Uganda. You never have to worry about schedules are all these means never leave on time.

Hotels and Accommodation

There are several hotels in Uganda not mentioning the safari lodges, Inns, apartments, camps and guesthouses that offer overnight accommodation and diner. Many of the Kampala hotels have friendly rates for overnight accommodation like Kampala Serena, Tourist hotel, Speke Hotels, Imperial Hotels and many others. You can also find hotels and accommodation in Jinja, Kabale and in Gulu. There are several Uganda Safari and tour operators that can arrange your safari, tours and holidays in Uganda with customized Uganda  safari packages inclusive of flights, tours,hotels and accommodations and transfers.

Uganda is another incredible country to visit on your East Africa safari and tours.  A number of tourist come here on Uganda safari tours for a number of reasons that include visiting the incredible range of Uganda National Parks, waterfalls like the 19m high Sipi Falls, undulating green hills of south western Uganda and mostly for the rare opportunity to do Gorilla Tracking in Uganda by the foot hills of the snow capped Rwenzori Mountains.

Entebbe is the heart of all travels in Uganda, be it business travellers or tourists. Entebbe Airport is the only International airport in Uganda located on the shores of the vast Lake Victoria. Air Uganda is the national carrier with flights to some of the different African destination like Nairobi, Kigali Rwanda, Lusaka Zambia Bujumbura in Burundi, Juba in Southern Sudan and in Dar-es-salaam among others. There are also domestic fliers from Entebbe to Soroti in Uganda in northern Uganda towns like Gulu and Arua where small airstrips are found. Some of the domestic flights to Entebbe are done by Eagle air

Flights to Entebbe Uganda are offered through South Africa Airways with one stop or two stop flights from Jo’burg, Delta, Air France from Paris via Dakar or Johannesburg and SN Brussels Airlines. Other airlines with flights to Entebbe include Emirates, Fly540 flights, British Airways, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Rwandair Air Tanzania, R and many others

Some of the flights to Entebbe come in from UK and Ireland via Heathrow, Glasgow, Southampton, Newcastle and other airports. While others are from Addis-ababa, Dubai, South Africa-Jo’burg and many others.

Cheap flights to Entebbe are offered by different travel site and Uganda Safari and tour operators. You can book flights to Uganda online as much in advance if you want to secure the cheapest Entebbe  tickets and flights.

Uganda safaris are not the same if you ignore a tour of the mountain gorilla living in south western Rwenzori Mountians. Gorilla trekking in Uganda draws more than 500 tourists every year and is major cash-in tourist attractions, the number one in Uganda Safari rankings.

The mountain gorillas living on the slopes of Rwenzori Mountains are just half of the world’s remaining population. Statistics has it that 800 of them are habitats in the Rwenzori foot slopes and some migrate to further in the lush forested slopes of Volcanoes on the Uganda border with Rwanda. Rwanda is another place to experience the best of gorilla tracking in East Africa, or even in Africa.

Gorilla Safaris in Bwindi

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in one vast eco-system that boast of  more than 6 Gorilla families. The park is found on the southern slopes on the Rwenzori mountains  in what is famously referred to as the Switzerland of Uganda. The park is a famous destination for gorilla tracking in Uganda besides is wealth of unique flora, forest canopy, variety of birds, butterflies and its rare golden monkeys. Identify the spoors and trails of the gorillas from their previous night spots and then track them.

In groups of 8 people your tour guide will lead you in the intertwined forest canopy identifying the gorilla spoors and trails from last night’s gorilla settlement. Trekking through the forest’s thick vegetation is not as easy as you think. The hike is for those who are physically fit and are determined to set years on the amazing gentle creatures.  The tacking experience is sometimes longer than expected, lasting up to 7 hours, thus you are advised to pack your lunch in a lunch box.

Finding a silverback led family can be a thrilling moment for trackers. You are allowed only one hour of interaction and taking pictures of these amazing creatures. The juvenile are often seen fighting or playing in the forest canopy.  It is an amazing safari experience you can experience once in a lifetime!

Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga

Mgahinga is another peak on the Rwenzori Mountains famous for its rugged terrain, dense forests and unique forest vegetation. In a habitat like this, Gorillas will find home and serenity. Mgahinga Gorilla park is less visited for Uganda gorilla safaris when compared with Bwindi Forest park. However the experience is relatively the same except in Mgahinga, the gorillas are found deep in the forest and tracking often lasts up to 7 hours

Mgahinga National Park Gorilla Tracking is more rewarding and fruitful during the mid –morning. One hour is what you have to take pictures, observe gorilla behavior and stare at the amazing creatures.

Gorilla Safaris Accommodation

There are plenty of options for overnight and dinner on Uganda Gorilla Safaris. There are several Uganda safari lodges and hotels that offer excellent dining and accommodation with typical nightly sounds of crocking frogs and screeching crickets.

Check out luxury packages accommodation from Gorilla Forest Camp, Clouds Lodge, Gahinga Volcanoes Lodge and/or Volcanoes Bwindi safari Lodge. Standard or mid range accommodation from Engagi lodge, Buhoma Loage, Traveller’s rest camp, Silverback Safari lodge and cheaper options at Wag tail Eco lodge or Lake kitandara camp. Budget package options include Virunga Hotel, Nkuringo Safari centre, Buhoma Community bandas or Bwindi View bandas.

Uganda Gorilla Safari Packages

Gorilla tracking in Uganda is often a major part of every Uganda safari itinerary is packaged with safari tours to neighboring National parks such as Queen Elizabeth where you’ll be introduced to Uganda’s primates like the crazy Chimpanzees and the colobus monkeys. Other parks in Uganda you can visit on your Uganda Primates safaris include Kibaale Forest National Park and Ngamba Island. Within the serene parks are lions, buffalos, monkeys, impala, Uganda Kob and more than 200 different birds among other species of wildlife.

Uganda gorilla tracking itineraries are normally designed with the tourists and last from 2 day visit to more than 5day safari itinerary. There are several Uganda Safari and tour operators that will gladly organize one for you keeping in mind your personal interests and the places you would like to visit on Uganda safaris

The Rwenzori Mountain lie across the western border of Uganda and rise to some height of 5,1OO metres. Listed here are the legendary ‘Mountains from the Moon’, a World Heritage Site – which incomparable, beautiful, mist-shrouded peaks give a unique backdrop to our most magnificent national parks.

Within the center from the range, which boasts Africa’s third greatest mountain, a few of the peaks carry permanent snow and glaciers, as the lower slopes are engrossed in dense forest. Walking trails about the lower slopes don’t demand alpinism experience, even though greater you decide to go the fitter you have to be. Excellent walking routes, such as the Bujuku circuit, are supplied through wonderful and different scenery.

For individuals who wish to chance a climb, several peaks provide challenges that match individuals within the Alps.These fabled mist-covered “Mountains from the Moon,” 120 km long and 48 km wide, were created from the block that was thrust up throughout the advance of the western arm of the Great East African Rift Valley. In the center from the range, you will find six peaks transporting permanent snow, three with glaciers.The greatest of those peaks, and also the third greatest peak in Africa, is Margherita rising 5100 metre above ocean level.

The Rwenzori Mountain tops were gazetted like a National Park in 1991. The Park covers 996 km2 of rugged mountain terrain. Whether or not they are experienced climbers or casual day-walkers, Rwenzori Mountain National Park offers visitors a distinctive connection with an Afro-Montane jungle.

The primary attraction may be the luxuriant plant life found above 3000 m including the giant types of Lobelia, Louise and Groundsel. Rwenzori Mountain National Park can also be the place to find the hyrax, blue monkey, chimpanzee, giant forest hog and several unique bird species like the Rwenzori touraco, the handsome francolin and also the olive pigeon. It is on the slopes of Rwenzori that you’ll find other Uganda National parks such such Bwindi Forest National park that is famous for gorilla trekking and also Mgahinga Gorilla National Park where gorilla find there humble home.

The optimum time for hiking and trekking in Rwenzori is throughout the dry seasons from mid-December towards the finish of March and from June through mid-August.

By Road: From Kampala via Mbarara to Kasese, then continue 18km to Ibanda. Also from Kampala through Fort Portal after which 75km about the Fort Portal/Kasese road south. The Park is 25 km from Kasese. Have a left turn 4 km after departing Kasese about the Kasese-Fort Portal road.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park situated about the slopes of Rwenzori is boasts of Uganda Gorilla safaris. The lush montane jungle hosts roughly 300 mountain gorillas, about 50% of the believed world population. They live alongside 350 to 400 chimpanzees and this is actually the only forest in Africa where they occur together. Additionally you will find another 120 types of mammal, including 10 types of primate and roughly 360 bird species. Gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda are a part of every Uganda safari itinerary with Rwanda gorilla safaris to accomplish around the gorillas residing in the dense forest around south western Uganda.

The Mountains of the Moon ideally known as Rwenzori illuminate the south west corner of Uganda with several scenic features like numerous lakes and jagged, volcanic mountain tops. Astride the mountain tops sits Rwenzori National Park. It’s a fantastic spot to trek.

Queen Elizabeth National Park, Laying over the equator, this park is outlined by Lake Edward and Lake George using the Kazinga Channel hooking up the two. The Park boasts among the greatest bio-diversity rankings associated with a game park or reserve on the planet, with almost 100 mammal species as well as an incredible 606 bird species. The jungle within the Kyambura Gorge hosts chimpanzees and also the remote Ishasha sector is famous because of its tree-climbing lions while flamingos give a stunning a little colour about the crater lakes.

Kibale Forest National Park, This jungle, interspersed with patches of grassland and swamp, supports a wealthy number of fauna, 250 types of animal and also over 300 wild birds. You will find 13 different primates here, the greatest total for just about any Ugandan National Park, including a large population of chimpanzees. If Chimpanzee tracking is what you are looking for when you are visiting Uganda, then Kibale Forest Park has more than you can imagine. More Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda is done at Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary within Lake Victoria.

Murchison Falls National Park, is Uganda’s biggest National Park while the Nile River, the longest river in the world, winds through it. At Murchison Falls the river needs through narrow gap and falls 43 mtrs to some pool below. These Falls are notable less for height for their immense power. The park is huge and delightful. Mainly wooded savannah, at 4,000km² it hosts giraffe, lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, hartebeest and much more.

Lake Mburo National Park is a different landscape of open Grassland plains, acacia shrubs and wetlands this park hosts an enormous variety of plants and creatures. About 68 different types of animals are available within its 260km². The park also offers as much as 313 different types of wild birds including Uganda’s national emblem, the elegant crested crane.

Semliki National Park, This is actually the spot to become familiar with hot springs, incredible forests and pygmies. Situated inside the remote Semliki Valley, both of them are named for that river that forms the Congolese border. The Park safeguards extra time from the Congo’s huge Ituri Jungle – here’s where East Africa meets West! It’s of particular interest to bird viewers like a high proportion from the 400 bird species recorded here, are believed to happen nowhere else in Uganda (10% are basically Congolese species). Semliki can also be the place to find lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, chimps & more.

Kidepo National Park hides in the corner of Uganda on the border with Sudan and Kenya in the far north east. Kidepo is really a truly stunning park boasting a genuine a feeling of backwoods that enchants visitors. The Narus Valley within the southwest and also the Kidepo Valley within the northeast break the mountainous terrain from the park. Although it covers a large area, the majority of the wildlife is targeted inside the Narus Valley revealing fantastic breathtaking sights of huge herds of buffalo with elephant, giraffe, waterbuck and zebra grazing alongside. You will find also numerous potential predators present including lion, cheetah, leopard, and spotted hyena.

Uganda is home to the some of the remaining families of mountain gorillas of Africa. You can track the gorillas in Bwindi National Park. Other wildlife safaris and visits to National Parks is also possible

Uganda the pearl of Africa as described by Winston Churchill, is home to various wildlife animals, flora and fauna. A visit to Uganda would enable you to see the mountain gorillas. A gorilla trekking permit costs USD 500 per person per trek.

Other interesting activities include the Murchison falls wildlife safari, bird watching Uganda safaris in every Uganda National Park, white water rafting on the River Nile, mountain climbing at the Rwenzori and Mt. Elgon National Parks and so much more.

Uganda Safari tours

Kampala City tours are part an exciting start to safaris in Uganda. Kampala is a vibrant modern metropolis, the capital city of Uganda adorned with gardens and parks providing colorful oases for its citizens and visitors alike. Entebbe town is home to Uganda’s only Airport and the fresh water Lake Victoria. Entebbe has several fine hotels, a golf course and splendid colonial-era homes on tree-lined streets, an impressive Botanical Garden and a wildlife orphanage.

Sese Island and Ngamba islands are part of Lake Victoria tours. Ngamba Island is home to Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary. The boat trip to the island is lots of fun and by visiting the island your entrance and activity fees help cover the costs of the island sanctuary and the well being of the chimpanzees. Fishing is another fascination on the lake.

The Nile River flows from Jinja making a journey of more than 6600 kms from Lake Victoria to the Mediterranean Sea in Egypt with incredible white water rafting rapids en-route. If you dare, you can challenge this mighty river and raft the Nile near the Bujagali Falls in Jinja.

Uganda national parks safaris

The Mountains of the Moon preferably called Rwenzori illuminate the south west corner of Uganda with several scenic features like numerous lakes and jagged, volcanic mountains. Astride the mountains sits Ruwenzori National Park. It is a fantastic place to trek.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park located on the slopes of Rwenzori is the home of Uganda Gorilla safaris. The lush montane rainforest is home to approximately 300 mountain gorillas, about half of their estimated world population. They live alongside 350 to 400 chimpanzees and this is the only forest in Africa where they occur together. In addition there are another 120 species of mammal, including 10 species of primate and roughly 360 bird species. Gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda are part of every Uganda safari itinerary with Rwanda gorilla safaris to complete tours of the gorillas living in the dense forest around south western Uganda.

Other interesting national parks within Uganda include Queen Elizabeth National Park renowned for Tree climbing lions of Ishasha, Lake Mburo National Park for remarkable birding safaris, Kibaale forest national park is where chimpanzee tracking in Uganda is given first priority, Murchison Falls National Park is part of Uganda’s largest National parks. At Murchison Falls the Nile river is forced through narrow gap and falls 43 mtrs to a Boling pool below. These Falls are notable not so much for height as for their immense power. The park is vast and beautiful. Predominantly wooded savannah, at 4,000km² it is home to giraffe, lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, hartebeest and many more.

Semiliki National Park is the place to be if you want to taste the hot water springs from the remote Semiliki valley. It is of particular interest to bird watchers as a high proportion of the 400 bird species recorded here. Semiliki is also home to lion prides, leopard, elephant, buffalo, chimps & more. Kidepo National park is remotely located in northern Uganda but you’ll not be disappointed with the wildlife numbers in this hot region of Uganda. There are also a number of predators present including lion, cheetah, leopard, and spotted hyena.

Hotels and accommodation in Uganda

Uganda safari hotels and accommodation are available in all major towns like Kampala and Entebbe, near every tourist attraction and Uganda game parks. Luxury hotels, exclusive safari lodges, up market tented camps, backpacking facilities, budget guest houses, bush camps, bed and breakfast, self catering facilities… it’s a very long list.

Safaris to Uganda are arranged through a number of Uganda safari and tour operators who will tailor and make suitable safari packages covering Uganda safari tours, hotels and accommodation. All Uganda safari packages are fully guided and include services of professional tour guides

BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is part of the chain of tropical rainforests that extend from DR Congo and northern Rwanda. It is filled with dense undergrowth; vines and other vegetation make it almost ‘impenetrable’. The park is located in south western Uganda, covering parts of Rukungiri, Kisoro, and Kabale Districts It was gazetted in 1991 with an area of 331 sq kms.

Bwindi Mountain Gorilla

The impenetrable forest is a water drainage area that supports several agricultural lands along the slopes of the Rwenzori ranges. Ishasha River drains in Lake Edward near the park, and 2 other rivers Kanyamwabo and Shongi flow into Lake Mutanda located within the park.

Flora

Without doubt, your first impression of the dense jungle will be its almost audible silence. Jungle creatures are very, very shy, but, as you pick your way along the trail, through the dense undergrowth, you’ll realize that the jungle is alive. Thousands of living organisms are discreetly watching and waiting whilst you pass through their protective home and, from time to time, the complete tranquility will be shattered by a darting forest bird or group of chattering monkeys leaping through the stands of ancient trees, disturbing the secretive residents and setting up a chain reaction. Now, the ever-wary jungle comes to colorful and noisy life for a moment, until silence reigns again.

There are more than 163 species of trees, 104 ferns, vines, herbs and shrubs all stretching along the valley floor. The lowland rainforest and montane forest vegetation constantly struggles to reach heights that will allow it to receive more light. Huge trees are festooned with creepers and parasitic plants such as mistletoe and orchids. Giant thickets of bamboo thrive in the humid atmosphere and, where sunlight breaks though, the elegant heliconia, or lobster claw, spreads its colorful petals.

Fauna and wildlife

Bwindi impenetrable national park is one of Africa’s richest ecosystems and at least 120 species of mammal are found here. There are African elephant, bush pig, giant forest hog, buffaloes, many species of bats and rodents and at least 346 species of birds including rare forest birds. The numbers go on and on … 27 species of frogs and toads, 6 chameleons at least 202 species of butterfly.

Bwindi forest is a sanctuary for almost half the world’s population of Bwindi mountain gorillas (about 330 of 600). Established as a safe habitat for several families of Bwindi mountain gorillas it is now the location of an important scientific conservation program. Other diurnal primates meet on Uganda primate safaris within the park include chimpanzees, L’hoest monkeys, golden monkeys, colobus monkeys. The park was declared a UNESCO world heritage site to conserve the endangered Bwindi Gorillas and other primates found within the forest.

Wit more than 202 different birds with Bwindi national park Uganda, 24 of these are endemic to the Albertine rift including Chaplin’s flycatcher, African giant swallow tail, cream banded swallow tail, African green broadbill and Grauer’s rush warbler.

Bwindi Gorilla safaris

Bwindi Uganda Gorilla safaris are one unforgettable experience part of the prime attractions on Uganda Safaris. Bwindi impenetrable forest is home to 2 habituated groups of Mountain Gorilla’s namely the Mubare group of 16 gorillas and the Habiyanja group 23 gorillas. Both groups are tracked daily by not more than 6 visitors who are escorted by National Park rangers and guides.

Report to the ranger station at 8.00am where two groups of 6 to 8 travellers meet their local guides and head out into the forest. The trek can take from half an hour to five hours so a reasonable degree of fitness is required as well as a sturdy pair of walking shoes. You sit in the forest among the gorillas listening to them grumble at each other and marvel at the sheer size of the dominant male, the silverback.

You will be told that if the big male silverback charges at you, you should look down and remain exactly where you are in a submissive pose. These words of wisdom are directly opposite to your natural instincts, but luckily a ranger is there to grab you should your feet disobey the instructions. The noise of the silverback pounding his chest during this mock charge is akin to overhead thunder and more than enough to make your knees knock and heart miss a beat. As the gorillas grow more accustomed to human presence, the charges do not happen so often. Each gorilla group is only visited for one hour a day.

Getting there

From Kampala, Bwindi forest National Park is located 414 km in Kabale town for travel time of 6-7hours. You’ll require stron 4X4 vehicle to climb the steep slopes of the Kisoro hills on murram road to reach the park headquarters via Kanungu

Bwindi Gorilla Park is often very cold for the early morning and in the nights with temperature between 7º C and 20ºC especially for June and July, 2 rainy season with short rains in March and May and longer periods of heavy rains from September and November. Remember to pack warm clothing.

Bwindi Impenetrable forest park is surrounded by several Bwindi accommodation options located in the small town of Buhoma with up market, budget and luxury tourist facilities. Up market accommodation is available at Lake Kintandara camp, Gorilla resort, Gorilla Forest Camp, Engagi camp, Bwindi Volcanoes Lodges, Mantana tented camp and Nkuringo Gorilla camp. Budget facilties and camps are also part of what is available for overnight. Some of these options include Bwindi Bandas, Ruhija Guesthouse and many self catering inns I Kisoro town.

QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK

This is a wonderful and especially scenic National Park, with two lakes connected by a channel overlooked by a high peninsula. In addition to the lakes there are volcanic craters, grassy plains, papyrus swamps, open savannahs and tropical forests. Queen Elizabeth Park is ranked as Uganda’s most visited game reserve.

The park is located in the western region of Uganda cutting through 3 districts of Kasese, Bushenyi and Rukungiri thus covering an area of around 1,978 sq km. North east of the park

Queen Elizabeth National Park-Ishasha

is Lake George, Lake Edward lies south west and the Kazinga channel that connects the two lakes runs through the vast park. Besides the lakes are other volcanic features like volcanic cones, small crater lakes like Lake Katwe from which salt is mined in Uganda.

Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari

Queen Elizabeth National Park was established in 1952 and is run by Uganda Wildlife Authority just like many of the other Uganda national parks. The vast Uganda national park covers the tropical rainforest called Maramagambo forest and then borders Kyambura game reserve, Kibale national park, Kigezi Game reserve and Virunga National Park on the DR Congo border.

Kyambura Gorge on the northeast boundary of the Park is real Tarzan territory with thick treetop canopies and vines dangling down to the soft forest floor. The terrain comes complete with chimpanzees that crash about and chatter high up in the branches. If they don’t feel like being seen, they just keep one step ahead of the out-of-breath terrestrial visitors. The caves on Kyambura gorge house thousands of birds and large snakes like pythons that feed on these abundant prey.

The Maramagambo Forest, south of the Kazinga Channel is also home to large numbers of chimps, plus a number of other monkey species.

Wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park

As a result of such varied habitats, QENP has one of the highest biodiversity ratings in the world, with almost 100 mammal species and an incredible 606 bird species.

Much of Uganda’s wildlife was poached out in the past, especially elephants, but now the area is protected and elephants numbers are boosted by those entering the park from the Congo, where poaching is still a problem.

The Kazinga Channel alone is said to contain the world’s largest concentration of hippos, but interestingly enough not many crocodiles! Other sighted animals include warthogs, buffalo, rare aquatic sitatunga antelope, giant forest hog, beautifully horned Uganda kob, topi, waterbuck, elephant, buffaloes and leopard. More than 10 predators roam the park including lions, leopards, stripped jackals and spotted hyenas. Primates are not a surprise, you’ll find chimpanzees, blue monkeys, olive baboons, red tailed monkeys and colobus monkeys

If you have not heard of the tree climbing lions, Ishasha sector is the place where you’ll spot some of the lionesses lounging in the trees upon the afternoon heat

Some rare and odd birds inhabit this park and keen birders come from all over the world to clock up a sighting of the shoe bill stork, Egyptian geese, yellow billed stork, white pelicans, martial eagles, papyrus gonolek, eagle owl, flamingoes, African fish eagle and other water birds that make 610 different birds recorded in this park and its surroundings. A great way to see both the birds and the mammals is from a luxury cruise or boat ride on the Kazinga Channel.

When to go

The park is located 376 km from Kampala off Kampala-Mbarara highway within the south western hills of Uganda with scenic views of the towering Rwenzori mountain ranges.

June to September is the dry season within the park and most animals draw near the Kazinga channel for a drink. January and February are very hot months making the best period to visit Queen Elizabeth Park for Game viewing.  The rains starting October to December, March to May, the roads are quite slippery and only 4WDs can traverse the park on game drives.

There is plenty of queen Elizabeth National park accommodation starting with luxury safari lodges, grass thatched cottages, bush camps and tented camp with remarkable room and service. Find luxury accommodation from Mweya safari lodge, Paraa safari lodge, Chobe safari Lodge and Ishasha wilderness camp

KAMPALA CITY

Welcome to Kampala…the land of Seven Hills

The capital city of Uganda, Kampala, is spread over ten hills and derives its name from a kiganda expression “kasozi k’empala meaning – the hill of antelopes. The origins of the Kampala go back to 1891 the when King Kabaka of Buganda had his court on Rubaga and Mengo hills.

Today the city views are of magnificent evergreen trees, gently disrupted by red-tiled villas, green iron-roofed bungalows, as well as taller modern city profiles that give way to attractive views of the surrounding countryside and nearby Lake Victoria.

The City has traditional charm, and is certainly the greenest city in Africa and yet Kampala is the commercial centre of Uganda, as well as the seat of government. It is a vibrant modern metropolis adorned with gardens and parks providing colorful oases for its citizens and visitors alike. If the National Museum is open & you have time, be sure to see its excellent historical and cultural displays.

The broad range of cultures in Uganda is also reflected in the wide choice of restaurants in the City, all featuring the wonderful produce of the fertile countryside and fish-filled lakes.

Kampala city tours

Kasubi Tombs located off Hoima road in a small Kampala suburb called Kasubi is the burial place for 4 of Buganda’s prominent kings, Mutesa I, Mwanga II, Daudi Chwa II and former president Edward Mutesa II. The Tombs were constructed in a traditional fashion with thatched poles and reeds that make up the roof into a splendid dome structure. It houses a variety of artifacts that belonged to the former Kings.  Today, it is a UNESCO world heritage site and must visit on Kampala city tours-Uganda safari.

Naggalabi Buddo Coronation site off Masaka road is another place to discover Buganda which has remained strong since the 17^th century. The site is located on a hill top with panoramic views of Kampala and its surburbs. Naggalabi Buddo is the historic heart of Buganda Kingdom telling the history of the beginning of Buganda Kingdom.

Namugongo Martyrs Shrine

Kabaka’s Lake located within Kampala is a man made lake that refreshes the air in Kampala with relaxing views after a hard day of Kampala Uganda safari tours. This lake was dug out on the orders of Buganda’s Kabaka Mwanga in the 1880′s for political reasons. The Kabaka’s palace is not far from the lake site and is one of Uganda’s best kept secrets located on Mengo hill within central Kenya. Bulage Mengo. Visit the offices of the Kabaka in Bulange Mengo and take pictures of the king’s statue. The Kabaka’s Palace consists of the Kabaka’s House commonly Known as the Twekobe House.

Uganda Martyrs’ Shrine in Namugongo is a stronghold for religion and Christianity in Uganda. The religious place is the ground where more than 20 Christian youth men were martyred on orders of reigning Buganda king Mwanga II in 1886. Many of the burnt men were Kabaka’s aides.

Bahai Temple is found 6km from Kampala Gayaza road in spectacular beauty, one of a kind in Africa. The worship temple and its architecture are inviting to very tourist that takes on Kampala tours. It is a place only known for prayers and meditation.

The different cathedrals smell of old architectural work and lie in centuries of astonishing beauty.
St.Paul’s Namirembe Cathedral is the Anglican Church set high up on Namirembe Hill with amazing views of Kampala both by day and night. On Rubaga hill lies St. Mary’s Cathedral previously royal site for Kabaka Mutesa. It was constructed between 1914 and 1925 with the help of the Catholics’ donations from the Missionary churches abroad. Kibuli Mosque found in the outskirts of Kampala in serene queues of palm trees and a majestic white and green mosque.  The new dome mosque at Old Kampala is awe-inspiring site, never ever seen in Uganda!

Uganda Museum is Located on Kira Road in Kampala city and houses a unique collection of ethnological exhibits covering hunting, agriculture, war, religion, witchcraft and natural history, as well as a great collection of traditional musical instruments from all over the continent. The building also houses the Uganda Society and their Library with a wide range of books on Uganda’s history and culture. Take some time off to the National theatre and find the best of African entertainment and artwork.

The are several African curio shops in Kampala selling beautiful African crafts, clothing, art paintings, sculptures and many other inspiring craft pieces.

Kampala hotels and accommodation

You don’t have to worry about where to spend the night or have diner in Kampala. There is everything from luxury hotels, up market apartments and budget Kampala hotels. Luxury Kampala hotels include  Kampala Serena hotel, Kampala Sheraton, imperial Royale hotel and budget overnight at tourist hotel, Holiday Express Inn, Speke hotel, Mosa Apartments and many others

Eating and dining in Kampala

Dining and Kampala night should not give you a head ache; enjoy tasty food and cuisines from Kampala’s hotels, eateries, cafés and night clubs. Some of the eateries include Crocodile Restaurant Kisement, great wall restaurant, Dominoz pizzas, Nandos and the list is endless. Some of Kampala’s suburbs never go to sleep… be sure to find a snack in Wandegeya and Kasanga

Kampala has a number of fast food points and restaurants preparing anything from international cuisines, local delicacies and fast foods. Check out points like Steer and Dominoz Pizzaria for 24/7 service, Mateo, Food Court at Garden city mall, Just kicking bar & restaurant, Ethiopian Village, Fang Fange Chinese restaurant, Kampala Club, Sizzlers and many other.

Shopping

Leaving this capital without making a few stops at the shopping malls, markets and village craft centres is impossible. Some of the biggest shopping points in Kampala include Uchumi at Garden city Mall, Nakkumatt Oasis Mall and many other supermarket –actually you’ll find anything from bedding, groceries, clothing, electronics and household items. Some of these shopping malls accept credit cards and VISA.

There are African craft centres and villages selling locally made jewellery, sculptures, art pieces and clothing. Best suited for souvenirs for all tourists visiting Uganda. However, you have to trust your bargaining power with the women selling these items-it will be good to use a bit of local language in the process!

Take a walk through the fresh fruits and food markets dotted throughout the capital such as St Balikuddembe Owino Market and Nakasero Market to buy some of food and fresh fruits grown in Uganda. You will be amazed by the diversity of Uganda’s food!

Banking in Kampala

There are more than 40 banking institutions in Kampala, both local and foreign banks opening at 8h00 and close at 16h00 through the working days.  Foreign exchange facilities, ATM services, and money transfers are packages for many banks in Uganda and Kampala. Some of the international banks include Stanbic Bank (U) Ltd (a member of the Standard Bank Group in South Africa), Barclays bank, Orient Bank, Tropical Africa Bank, Eco Bank, Standard Chartered Bank and United Bank for Africa among others. Check with your tour guide or map for location of these bakns.

Entertainment and Nightlife

This capital is one of the safest places in the world. Kampala is quite safe for walks in the night as long as you do not take your valuable properties like Passports and such along.

Many restaurants and bars have live music for the evenings with different bands while the night clubs are full every day of the week. Check out the music in Angenoir, Club Silk, T1, Sway and Pa Lui in Ntinda. Your Tour guide will give you details of the best places to visit on particular days.

Gambling is allowed in Uganda and there are many casinos and betting centres in Kampala. Some of the best casino facilities are at Kampala Casino, Mayfair, Simba and the amazing Egyptian inspired Pyramids Casino.

Transport and Getting around

Kampala is a few minutes drive from Entebbe International Airport located south west of the city centre. There are airport taxis and travel agents with car hire facilities at the airport upon landing. A taxi cab from the airport to Kampala city centre costs between USD 20-30. Alternatively, your hotel shuttle may pick you up incase you made a reservation before your flight to Uganda.

The city center is rather hectic and streets are fairly filled with people. You’ll most certainly need a motorcycle called Boda Bodas to take you through the city streets to be on time! Buses and taxis /minibuses are also used (never run on schedule).

If you are travelling up-country, you may use charter aircrafts or domestic airlines such as Eagle air and kampala Aero club flights

KIBALE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

The Kibale Forest is located in western Uganda in Kibale district with one of Uganda’s remaining equatorial rainforest contains the highest concentration of primates in the world – thirteen species live here including about 500 chimpanzees. the park lies in a protected area adjoining Queen Elizabeth National Park making a diverse wild habitat and eco-system for western Uganda.

It is an enchanting forest full of lakes, marshes, patches of grasslands, lowland tropical rainforest, deciduous forest and montane forests, perfect for its arboreal inhabitants. Much Forst is water logged, adjacent to Bigodi Wetland and swamps.

Kibale Forest Wildlife

Kibale forest is home to more than 13 different species of primates including the Black and white Colobus, L’Hoest’s Monkeys, grey cheeked mangabeys, chimpanzees, olive baboons, red colobus, red tailed monkeys, diademed monkey, blue monkey and Galagos. Other wild animals include bush bucks, warthogs, giant forest hog, impala, genet, red duiker, buffalo, bush buck, bush pig, African civet, hippos, elusive elephants and more.

The bird life is amazing with at least 325 species identified here including horn bills, African pitas, green breasted pitas, African grey parrots, ground thrush Prirogrine. A vist to Bigodi wetland swmaps will be rewarding with several sights of papyrus endemic birds like great blue Turaco, black billed Turaco, white spotted crake The buzz of life is audible, but a silent encounter to take your breath away is standing amongst clouds of fluttering butterflies, of which this park boasts 144 different species!

Kibale forest chimpanzee tracking

There are more than 1,000 chimpanzees in Kibale forest park and you’ll find many of these playing about in the overhanging vines and feeding among the fig trees. The Kibale chimps are the prime attractions on Uganda primate safaris after the gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable forest.

Primate walks in Kibale forest are always guided and led by well trained rangers so be sure of your safety on the chimp trails. Pre-booking is very important since you have to book chimp tracking permit before arrival to the park. Be warned however, once the chimps decide to move on at high speed through the branches, keeping up with them can be quite a challenge

Primates Lodge Kibale

Many of Kibale’s chimpanzees and primates are habituated to human visitors, as a sustainable eco-tourism initiative allowing people to visit has been running since 1992.

March to May and then November are excellent months for Uganda primate safaris and chimp tracking in kibale forest National Park. The park is open 8h00 and closes at 18h00.

Kibale forest park accommodation

Kibale Primates lodge is managed by the park and local people located near Kanyanchu visitor’s centre where tourist information is got. The lodge has 8 large walk-in canvas tents, en-suite bathrooms, a large restaurant, lounge/ reception and bon fire for the evening

Kibale forest Lodge is located along the route to Bigodi swamps with scenic views of Kibaale forest from the verandah. The lodge had 5 large canvas tents, 2 rooms for the main building, running water, en-suite bathrooms, a restaurant, well stocked bar and laundry services among other facilities.

Chimps Nest camp is located on the edge of the forest near Nyabubale a few kilometers from Bigodi swamps with 6 self contained cottages, a cool tree house and backpacking facilities. There are luxury suites, self contained apartments and budget camps.

Kibale Tented camp is run by Nature lodges Uganda only 2km form Bigodi Swamps with stylish and well furnished grass thatched cabs, flush toilets, en-suite bathrooms, verandah and a camp fire at night.

Other accommodation options include Chimpanzee valley resort, Nkingo safari hotel, Mountains of the moon lodge, guesthouses, inn and bead and breakfast facilities.

Murchison Falls is Uganda’s largest National Park crossed by the Nile River, the world’s longest, winds through it meandering through a narrow rock gorge to form the Murchison falls from which the park is named.

The Murchison falls national park is part of the larger Murchison falls protected area that extends some 5,00sqkm to include Karuma and Bugungu wildlife reserves. Rabongo and Kaniyo Pabidi forests Trails through Kaniyo Pabidi forest, 8km inside Kichumbar Gate, provide the opportunity to track chimpanzee and primates beneath Uganda’s largest remaining mahogany.

Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls is about 50 mtrs wide at this point is forced through a 7 mtr (24 ft) gap and plunges 43 mtrs to the aptly named ‘Boiling Pot’ below. The river then corkscrews through another small gap to cascade 36 mtrs (120 ft) in a thunderous foaming torrent.

Impressive for power rather than size, the Murchison Falls are a spectacular sight, but there is more to this park than the raging river. There is a diversity of habitat – riverine, grassy plains and savannah woodlands and altitudes that vary from above 500 to 1290 mtrs above sea level (1600 to 4200 ft).

The Nile River calms itself after the Falls and the best way to experience the abundance of animal and bird life along its banks is on a riverboat. In this area the Nile is full of unbelievably large Nile crocodiles that sunbathe on the rocks. Occupying the same waterway are thousands of hippos who take defending their territories seriously and can startle you with a sudden mock charge.

Murchison Falls wildlife

As one of the largest national game parks on Uganda National parks safari, Murchison falls park lies at the Albertine rift valley as the escarpment slows interchanges for the grassland plains, river wetlands, tropical rainforests and rocky outcrops creating a diverse habitat for more than 76 animals and 500 different birds.

Buffalo wade nonchalantly through the prolific floating water hyacinth fringing the banks, and huge herds of elephant cool themselves in shallow creeks and graze silently on the lush grasses. The park is also home to giraffe, oribi, hartebeest, waterbuck and Uganda kob.  Other animals found in the park include hippos, Rothschild giraffes, hartebeests, oribi, warthog, Uganda kob, crocodiles, elephant and many others.

The river is, of course, a bird lover’s paradise and a good place to see the rare shoebill stork, malachite eagles, fish eagles, ituri batis, white thornbill, yellow footed fly catcher, sunbirds, and many other water birds.

Things to do

Fishing is a fascination on the Nile River and Murchison falls is not an exception. Sport fishing get you catches like record size Nile perch, tiger fish, tilapia and many other types. Fishing is restricted in a few designated places.

Boat trips are also something rewarding with trips to Para and then into Lake Albert giving you the best chance to watch schools of hippos, crocodiles, water birds, buffalos and other interesting lake view scenery.

Chimpanzee tracking is another thing to do while visiting Rabondo forest and also as you return for kampala in Budongo forest in Masindi district.

Best time to visit

June to September is the driest time when most animals remain near water. The hot dry time is January to February and this is a good time to visit. Be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms at any time of the year. October to December and March to May are the wettest months and the roads may become impassable. The Nile’s flow is dam regulated so the water levels remain more or less constant throughout the year.

Access

By road from Kampala through Masindi, Murchison falls is 90km from Masindi. To Paraa via Kichumbanyobo gate the park is only 5 hours drive using 4 wheel drive vehicles. There is a ferry that operates around Paraa on along the River Nile. Charter flights are also offered and there is an airstrip at Pakuba 19km north of Paraa.

Murchison Falls hotel and accommodation

There are around 2 exclusive up market Murchison falls safari lodges, tented camps like at Nile Safari Camp, Sambiya River Lodge and Paraa Uganda safari Lodges. Camping is also allowed but in designated sites like on top of the falls, near Rabongo forest and around Paraa with toilets, running water and other basic facilities. Such camps include Red Chillis that offers good meals, drinks and clean accommodation.

NGAMBA ISLAND

Ngamba Island is part of the Koome group of islands located on Lake Victoria 23km south of Entebbe, Uganda. It consists of approximately 100 acres, 98 of which are forested and separated from the visitor’s area by an electric fence.

The northern part of the island is occupied by local Lake Victoria fishing community. There is also a camp, research centre, forest reserve and game viewing platform where chimps a re fed everyday.

Ngamba Island Safari

Ngamba Island was officially opened to visitors in October 1999 and is currently home to 35-orphaned chimpanzees, 15 of which have been confiscated and brought to the island since its opening. Ngamba islands is not only home to the chimpanzee sanctuary, it also has other primates, fruit bats, spiders, fish eagles, otters, monitor lizards, crocodiles and other mammals.

Ngamba Island is a project of the Ngamba Island Chimpanzees Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust (CSWCT), established in 1997 by the Born Free Foundation (UK), International Fund for Animal Welfare (USA), the Jane Goodall Institute (Germany and Uganda), The Uganda Wildlife Education Centre Trust (UWECT) former Entebbe view and the Zoological Board of New South Wales (Australia) and it provides these orphaned chimpanzees with a secure home to live out their lives, since a return to their natural habitat is not possible, while educating visitors and local communities about their remarkable species and the importance of conserving their fragile forest habitat.

Ngamba Island Chimpanzee sanctuary

The chimpanzee sanctuary was established in October 1998 to take care of orphaned chimps and those rescued from illegal poachers by Uganda Wildlife Authority. The young chimps are introduced to the sanctuary in cages and slowly introduced to surrogate mothers.

Each day there is a chance for the visitors to watch the chimps feeding. Day trips, overnight camping and forest walks can also be arranged. Walking with chimps is quite and experience.

You can help support this project by visiting on Ngamba Island sanctuary. The entrance and activity fees paid goes directly towards helping cover the recurring costs of the island sanctuary and ensuring the well being of the chimpanzees. Prior booking is however important and is done through any reputable Uganda safari and tour operator.

Accommodation on Ngamba Island is available in self catering camps over looking Lake Victoria. Enjoy swimming at the lake, lunch at the picnic site, fish village visits, fishing trips, bird watching and high speed boating when you are here.

Uganda safari and tour operators have a lot to offer to tourists especially with local (Uganda safaris) and East African safaris. Find an incredible range of Uganda safari and tour packages with any of the Uganda safari operators and travel agents, from 2 day Uganda safari tours to 14 day Uganda wildlife and gorilla tracking tours in Uganda, Kenya Rwanda or Tanzania.

Whether you search for a gorilla safari in Uganda and Rwanda or marvel at the vast national parks of Kenya and Tanzania, you find that one visit to this region is not enough! There are luxury safari packages, budget safari packages inclusive of transfers, hotels, safari lodges and accommodation facilities.

Find some of Uganda’s safari and tour operators as listed below. However visit any Uganda safari and tours website for travel reviews and articles about reputable Uganda Africa safari operators and travel agents. Look out for the best and affordable travel and holiday packages on Uganda safaris. All tour operators in Uganda are registered with Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO).

African Jungles Safaris

Pilkigton Road, Plot no.4
Colline House, 3rd Floor Suite 58
Tel +256 414 259172, +256 714 901801
E-mail:  info@africanjunglessafaris.com
Website: www.africanjunglessafaris.com

Great Lakes Safaris
Suzie House, Annex.1st Floor, Ggaba Road, Kampala,PO Box 33024,Kampala, Uganda
Tel. +256 (0)414 267153, Fax. +256 (0)782 260948, Mobile. +256 (0)772 426368
email. info@safari-uganda.com
Website. www.safari-uganda.com

Asyanut Tours and Safaris
Plot 2 Parliament Avenue.M1.3 Jumbo Plaza, Mezanine Floor, Kampala, PO Box 27707,Kampala, Uganda
Tel. +256 (0)414 503065, Fax. +256 (0)414 503064, Mobile. +256 (0)712 187411
email. sales@asyanuttours-safaris.com
Website: www.asyanuttours-safaris.com

Volcanoes Safaris
27 Lumumba Avenue, Nakasero Hill,Kampala, PO Box 22818,Kampala, Uganda
Tel. +256 (0)414 346464/5, 0312 263823, Fax. +256 (0)414 341718, Mobile. +256 (0)772 741718
email. salesug@volcanoessafaris.com
Website: www.volcanoessafaris.com

Onyx Safaris
P.O box 28486 Kamukamu plaza
Tel. TEL:+256-782617841 /773109706+256 (0)312 261930
Fax. +256 (0)312 261930,
email. info@onyxsafaris.com
Website. www.onyxsafaris.com

Karibu Safaris

Plot 1001 Gaba Road (Next to the American Embassy).
Suzie House, Second Floor Suite 21
P. O. Box 10897 Kampala Uganda.
Tel: 0312 110627
Tel: 256 45 437020
Mob: 0751707287
E-mail: contacts@karibusafari.co.ug
www.karibusafari.co.ug

Africa Destination Safaris
23694 Kampala Uganda
Plot 30 Kisaasi
Uganda East Africa
+256-777559967
+256-773388506
info@africasafarisuganda.com
www.africasafarisuganda.com

Travel Hemispheres Ltd
Entebbe Road, Tel: +256 772 346517, +256 772 571698
email: info@travelhemispheres.com

http://www.travelhemispheres.com

Access Africa Safaris
Tel:+256-312 265 737
Mob: +256-392 842 042 or +256-782 455 902
Uganda Office: Plot 4 Pilkington Rd.
P.O. Box 26829 Kampala.
E-mail:info@toursuganda.com
Web:www.toursuganda.com

Abeam Safaris & Travel
Nakawa- Ntinda rd near Eureka Accommodation
Cel : 256-712413350/0782331688
24 Hrs :0772502713
Email: abeamsafaris@gmail.com
Web: www.ugandasafarisafrica.com

Nature Track Expeditions
P.O. Box 729, Entebbe
Plot 53 – 55, Circular Rd, Entebbe
+256 041 323 747
+256 (0)774 13 29 67
safari@naturetrack-expeditions.com

http://www.naturetrack-expeditions.com

Jinja is a major commercial centre and the second largest city in Uganda. It is located 80km east of Kampala, on the banks of Lake Victoria at the source of the River Nile. Jinja is more than an industrial town; it is actually the source of the world’s longest river, Nile the flows northwards and drains into the Mediterranean Sea in Egypt.

It takes about 3 hours to drive form Kampala to Jinja, to the source of the Nile. The surrounding rural areas are prime agricultural country with extensive plantations of sugar cane and tea.

Bujagali Falls on River Nile Jinja

River Nile
The longest river on earth, the Nile flows for 6600 kms from Lake Victoria in the heart of Africa to the Mediterranean and it alternates between a placid, wide river and swirling white water rapids. This great waterway has played a monumental role in history. It traverses an incredible variety of landscapes, a colorful medley of cultures and since the beginning of time has enthralled civilisations with its power and mystery.

Ancient Egyptian kings sent armies in search of the source of the great river and explorers from Herodotus to Speke have sought to chart its course. Until very recently no one dared challenge the White Nile at its source – some of the most powerful and sustained rapids on earth.

The river flows from Lake Victoria, forming the Bujagali falls to Lake Kyoga then to Karuma falls after which it forms Murchison falls and then follows into Lake Albert, from there is meanders into southern Sudan for Egypt.

Nile White water rafting

Today however, you can challenge this mighty river and raft the Nile near the Bujagali-Falls. The historic first descent of the Victoria (White) Nile was in July 1996 and today there are one-day expeditions available almost every day of the year.

The Nile exits Lake Victoria and soon flows over Owen Falls Dam below which it flows freely and quickly to Bujagali Falls – the first major rapid on the river, and the point the rafting action begins. This is white water rafting in Uganda at its best – up to ten times the volume of the Zambezi thunders between the heavily forested islands and the river’s banks where excited locals congregate to see the rafts in action.

The one-day trip departs daily from Bujagali Falls and ends at Itanda, 18 kilometres away. The water levels here are subject to very little seasonal variation, so rafting is excellent at any time of year. The constant volume of water guarantees one of the most exciting one-day rafting trips in the world. The legendary rapids ‘Total Gunga’, ‘Overtime’ and ‘Itanda’ will live long in your memory.

During the adventure stop to catch your breath and enjoy a yummy picnic lunch on a forested river island. You also visit Sezibwa Falls, a cultural site located in Mukono town before you reach Jinja, Mabira forest is another stop over with trails through Uganda’s surviving untouched tropical rain forest

Accommodation is available in Jinja Nile resort, Hotel triangle, Hotel Paradise, other guesthouses, inns and many other options.

THE RWENZORI MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

The Rwenzori Mountain is the highest peak of the tectonic mountain ranges formed mountain from Uganda’s south western border with DR Congo Also called the mountains of the moon, Rwenzori is 120 kms long and 43 kms wide and includes a fantastic icy world and afro-alpine vegetation.  The peaks lie in misty clouds, snow and glaciers often not seen form a far.

Rwenzori Snow capped Peaks

The mountains rose due to the formation of the East African Rift Valley system, and – unlike other high mountains such as Kilimanjaro and Mt. Kenya – are not volcanic mountains. The Rwenzori Mountains consists of six snow capped massifs separated with deep gorges; Stanley the highest with 5,109m, Speak at 4,890m, baker at 4,843m, mount Emin, Gessi and Luigi. Margherita peak is the highest peak on Mount Stanley.

Rwenzori mountains National Park

Rwenzori national park is a world heritage site, protected to the unique plants and wildlife that live on the slope of the Rwenzori mountain ranges. Located within the Park is Africa’s third highest mountain – Mount Stanley (5109mtrs). It was named after the famous explorer of the same name who was the first outsider to sight the mountain during his 1887 expedition. The word Ruwenzori means “rain-maker” and the mountains bring an average of over 5 mtrs of rainfall to the area each year. Unfortunately the snow covered peaks and glaciers are rarely visible.

The Park has a large variety of afro-alpine vegetation, including giant lobelias, tropical rainforests, heather and groundsels. There is also the chance to view chimps and other primates, elephant, buffalo, bushbuck, giant forest hog, hyrax, chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, blue monkeys and leopard.

Some of the unique birds found in the region are the Rwenzori Touraco, Francolin, Malachite sunbird, Olive pigeon and White-necked raven.

How to get there

Rukoki Falls, Rwenzori National Park

The park is reached at the trailhead at Nyakalengija, 22km from Kasese, off Fort portal-Kamapla road. At Nyakalengija are park offices from where you’ll pay some small park fees. Charter flights are available from Entebbe and Kampala.

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

Trekking in these mountains is great for both the experienced mountaineer and the casual hiker, an interesting adventure you can ever think of. The central circuit trail is the popular hiking route normally takes 7 days and 6 nights to get to the peak. Make sure you pack rain gear, a sleeping bag, warm hat, snow goggles, warm socks and gloves, gaiters, walking stick, first aid kit and any other thing you need on a hiking trail.

Porters will be carrying your heavy equipment and food, leaving you with a small pack, rain gear, warm clothes, camera, water and any other light luggage

During the driest periods (July, August & December to February) visitors can take the Central Circuit Trail, which requires 6-7 days and reaches the higher mountains. Bad weather at other times makes these trips impossible, slippery trails, cold weather, steep terrain and high altitude sickness.