African Safaris Guide

Category: Advice

  • What Vaccinations Do I Need to Visit East Africa for Wildlife Safaris?

    Embarking on a wildlife safari in East Africa promises awe-inspiring encounters with diverse flora and fauna in their natural habitats. However, amidst the excitement of witnessing majestic creatures like lions, elephants, and giraffes, it’s crucial not to overlook the essential aspect of safeguarding one’s health. East Africa, comprising countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and others, presents unique health challenges due to its tropical climate, wildlife diversity, and varying landscapes.

    To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, travellers must take appropriate health precautions and vaccinations. This article aims to elucidate the essential vaccinations and health measures to undertake before embarking on a wildlife safari in East Africa.

    Understanding the Risks

    Before delving into specific vaccinations and health precautions, it’s essential to comprehend the potential health risks associated with traveling to East Africa. The region is known for certain infectious diseases that travellers may encounter, including malaria, yellow fever, typhoid fever, hepatitis A and B, rabies, and various intestinal infections. Moreover, exposure to wildlife, insects, and unclean water sources can also pose health hazards. Understanding these risks is paramount in preparing for a safe and healthy safari experience.

    Essential Vaccinations

    • Yellow Fever: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for travellers visiting East Africa, as the region is classified as a yellow fever endemic area. Proof of vaccination is often required for entry into many East African countries. Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, and vaccination provides robust protection against the illness. It’s crucial to receive the yellow fever vaccine at least ten days before travel to ensure immunity.
    • Malaria: Malaria is a prevalent mosquito-borne disease in East Africa, posing a significant health risk to travellers. While there is no vaccine for malaria, preventive measures such as antimalarial medication and mosquito bite prevention are essential. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended to determine the most suitable antimalarial medication based on the traveller’s medical history and the specific regions to be visited.
    • Typhoid Fever: Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated food and water. Vaccination against typhoid is advisable for travellers to East Africa, especially those planning extended stays or venturing into rural areas where sanitation may be inadequate. The typhoid vaccine is available in both oral and injectable forms, offering effective protection against the disease.
    • Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B: Both hepatitis A and hepatitis B are viral infections transmitted through contaminated food, water, or bodily fluids. Vaccination against hepatitis A and hepatitis B is recommended for travellers to East Africa to prevent these potentially serious infections. The hepatitis A vaccine typically provides long-lasting immunity with a series of two doses, while hepatitis B vaccination involves a series of three doses.
    • Rabies: Rabies is a viral disease transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, primarily through bites or scratches. Travelers engaging in activities that involve close contact with animals, such as wildlife viewing or volunteering, should consider rabies vaccination. Additionally, practicing caution around animals and seeking immediate medical attention in the event of an animal bite or scratch is essential.

    Other Health Precautions

    • Mosquito Bite Prevention: Given the prevalence of mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria and dengue fever in East Africa, mosquito bite prevention is crucial. Travelers should use insect repellents containing DEET, wear long-sleeved clothing and pants, and sleep under mosquito nets, especially in malaria-endemic areas. Additionally, staying indoors during dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active, can further reduce the risk of mosquito bites.
    • Safe Food and Water Practices: Ensuring food and water safety is essential to prevent gastrointestinal infections such as traveller’s diarrhea. Travelers should consume only thoroughly cooked food, avoid street food and raw or undercooked meats and seafood, and drink bottled or purified water. It’s advisable to peel fruits and vegetables before consumption and avoid ice cubes made from tap water.
    • Sun Protection: East Africa’s equatorial climate means strong sun exposure, increasing the risk of sunburn and heat-related illnesses. Travelers should use sunscreen with a high SPF, wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, seek shade during peak sun hours, and stay hydrated to prevent dehydration and heat exhaustion.
    • Wildlife Safety: While encountering wildlife is a highlight of a safari experience, it’s essential to observe safety precautions to avoid potentially dangerous situations. Travelers should maintain a safe distance from wild animals, follow park regulations and guidelines provided by experienced guides, and refrain from feeding or provoking animals. Additionally, respecting wildlife habitats and minimizing disturbance to animals is crucial for conservation efforts.

    Conclusion:

    Embarking on a wildlife safari in East Africa offers unparalleled opportunities to witness the region’s stunning biodiversity up close. However, ensuring a safe and healthy experience requires diligent preparation and adherence to essential health precautions and vaccinations. From protecting against mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria and yellow fever to preventing food and waterborne infections, travellers must prioritize their health and well-being. By taking proactive measures and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals, travellers can mitigate health risks and fully enjoy the wonders of an East African safari adventure.

     

  • Car Rental with a Driver in Tanzania

    Renting a car with a driver is the ideal solution for traveling comfortably in and out of the city, reducing stress and travel. But it’s not the best choice when it comes to long journeys or getting to the airport. A Tanzania car rental with a driver can be useful even when you have to move in your city, both for professional reasons and for leisure.

    Our team of well-trained drivers has valid driver permits and has graduated from some of the best driving schools and safari guides associations hence you can be assured of high-quality service worth every penny you pay. 

    MERITS OF HIRING CAR RENTAL WITH A DRIVER

    Liability in case of Accidents

    When you hire car with a driver, you transfer all the liability to the company. You remain in charge of where the driver should drive to but in case of an accident or any damages, you are not held liable.

    It also saves you the trouble of analyzing every clause of the contract since hiring with a driver relinquishes you of duties of entering strictly binding contract.

    Comfort

    Working with a luxury transportation service has its aesthetic advantages, too. You can count on reaching your destination in a comfortable vehicle that spares nothing in ensuring your relaxation. You’ll enjoy soft, cushioned seating, modern vehicles, and luxurious amenities that promise to make your trip even more special. A professional driver will do all the work for you, all you have to do is sit back and relax.

    Roads and Signage

    It is easy to drive on the main roads, since almost all these roads are in good mechanical conditions, however most of the roads that are off the main roads are in poor condition. You might need some experience to drive on these roads more so when it rains since they have nothing like signage.

    Navigating your trip can be a stressful experience. From using a GPS to asking for directions, finding your way around can take valuable time away from your vacation. When you hire a driver they’ll get you where you need to be without any hiccups. Plus, they’ll be waiting for you when you’re ready to leave for your next destination.

    Knowledge of the Country

    The internet is a very resourceful tool but what happens when you are in a place where there is no internet access, you are left alone to depend on your instincts. This can be resolved when you hire with a driver.

    Driver guides are always knowledgeable about where to eat out safely, where to buy authentic stuff, where to stay overnight whether you chose to lodge or camp. They will always save you the hustle of training to find out where to get all these basic services.

    Whenever you hire a driver guide, you are assured of great tips and hidden destinations that you can rarely find out on the hard copy maps or google maps. In other words, you job is to ask questions as you explore with a professional driver guide on the unbeaten paths of Rwanda. 

    Full-time drivers

    Our drivers are trained professionals that provide high-quality transportation as their full-time occupation. This means that our drivers have received customer service training and understand how best to interact with you to provide a pleasant and easy ride. You can trust our drivers to make you comfortable and get you acquainted with your surroundings. 

    No Driving Required

    The best part of hiring a driver for your trip is the most obvious: you don’t have to do any driving. Your experienced driver will take the wheel so you can enjoy the ride.

    Make a Great Impression

    Who doesn’t want to pull up in a luxury black service car?

    Familiar with most places

    The good thing about most chauffeurs is the fact that they are familiar with so many places because they are well-traveled. If you wish to go to some obscure places within Tanzania the chauffer probably knows it.

    Relaxing drive

    You get time to relax and do other things if you are not driving yourself and this mainly applies to business and leisure travelers. Get out that laptop or phone and do some chatting or business deal as they transfer you to your destination. Relaxing is always a big part of getaways and so you have to maximize that every chance you get.

    Reliability

    Each transfer is monitored in each phase from responsible, experienced and professional staff.

    Punctuality

    A professional driver is trained to get a client to a desired destination in time, something that is no easy task when you are driving yourself. If you are planning a business trip in Rwanda, then you should consider hiring a driver for a timely arrival to the meeting.

    Safer

    The biggest benefit of hiring a driver is that your don’t have to worry about getting lost or falling into hands of fraudster as you have you personal bodyguard to guide and protect you most especially if it’s your first time in the country.

    No need to worry about reckless or shady drivers. Your hired chauffeur will have passed numerous background checks and safety tests for your peace of mind. All hired drivers are fully licensed and insured, so even if an accident does happen you’ll receive compensation.

    Enjoyment

    The first benefit of renting a car with a driver is that you don’t have to drive the car yourself and completely enjoy your trip sightseeing the roads, the mountains and the forests on your route. You can keep talking and discussing things with your companions have snacks and refreshments without focusing on the road.

    Less hassle

    Renting a car instead takes away many of the costs and hassles of owning your own vehicle. The company will be responsible for repairs and maintenance, freeing up your money for other things.

    Car insurance is usually included in the rental fee. Plus, if you find ride sharing isn’t the business for you or you want a different car, you can just give it back. You’re not tied down to this one car for the next five years. You also won’t have to worry about registering the car or paying for depreciation.

    Conclusion

    Whether you’re visiting a new town or headed to a special event, you’ll likely need a reliable source of transportation to help you reach your destination. While many people opt to self drive Tanzania themselves, others may consider the assistance of a drive instead.

  • Privately Inspiration Journeys Across Uganda

    Uganda has been on my list for ages, in reality I may say, since my childhood.  It seems to be the perfect place for lost-in-nature and active holidays! It’s really a pace to have on your bucket list, its pretty interesting in terms of soft adventure vacations as well as lovely and friendly outdoor activities nature walks, hiking, white water rafting, chasing, and volcano watching, gorilla trekking in their natural habitat, walking in the footsteps of chimpanzees, and enjoying the African big game safaris in the African savanna .it simply has to be on every ones list!  If I know what this inspiration African road trip means.

    If you’re planning a self drive trip to Uganda on your own, this simple write up will help you to plan your Ugandan exclusive journey in more fashioned way and leisure friendly to navigate through Uganda as first time visitor, with  a simple signage follow up too will give you some handy information on driving around Uganda .Believe me or not , Uganda is the perfect dreamy destination for an epic self-drive holiday in Africa.

    Driving in Uganda/East Africa – A European perspective

    I have just got back from a trip starting Kampala and visiting western and eastern parts of the country, before returning via lake Mburo national park

    I thought I’d share a few thoughts on driving. Basically it was great. The roads were well maintained and signposted. First suggestion rent a 4×4 car for your journey as well as some few gadgets to ease your travel. Most 4×4 Uganda Rentals come with a Sat Nav (GPS) or Ugandan Road map. I don’t know how I would ever have found my way out without it! If you think of driving in Africa with the use of google map forget about it, roads in Africa are difficult to determine the driving time based on google maps, these steps would help you capturing the beauty of Uganda through my eyes.

    Freeways seem to vary between two lanes and 5+ lanes. Speed limits vary from 50 to 80 mph. Traffic seems to stick pretty close to the limit +/- 5mph in city centers or major capital Kampala. Quite often we saw cars pulled over by Highway Patrol I guess for speeding. I generally its possible to set your mind on the speedometer since  the cruise control don’t work, if you think of using google map in Africa forget about it since at or just keep the speedometer below the limit and this will allow you to have  a relaxing drive on the road. On two lane roads better you stay over on the right. On multi lane roads stayed in the second or third lane from the right unless you intend to come off at the next intersection. True traffic overtakes on both sides, but once you get used to it that isn’t a problem. Unlike some motorways there are no regular service stations. Occasionally you come across a rest area which will have a rest room (toilet) but probably nowhere to eat or buy petrol (gas). Generally the signs for each exit give details of nearby eateries and petrol stations which you need to leave the freeway to visit. In Uganda we are used to trucks limited to speed you keep clear of them. On the freeways although there are signs restricting them to 55, the big rigs seem to travel as fast or faster than the cars. It is pretty scary being overtaken by a big rig and trailer doing 80+. Finally if you see a police car or breakdown truck on the shoulder slow down and move over a lane as the locals seem to do.

    In town, the rule about turning right on a red light is quite sensible, only in big towns like Kampala and Kigali those are capital cities that’s the only places where you can find traffic lights just treat it like a give way sign. At night sometimes traffic lights are set to flashing red in all directions. This means stop and proceed with caution. Flashing yellow means slow down and proceed with caution.

    You will come across junctions with stop signs on each road Here the rule seems to be that all cars stop, then whichever car arrives first sets off. This can be confusing.

    Generally drivers in Uganda seem happy to follow a car which is sitting on the speed limit rather than overtake at the first opportunity as seems to happen back home and taxi drivers almost drive on bumper to bumper and its good to give them space.

    To get petrol you pay in according to fuel needed and payment is done in local currencies but only on big fuel stations they accept visa cards. I used cash rather than racking up charges on my cards so got. (Petrol was around)

    Most of my trip was on fairly quiet roads where other drivers seemed pretty laid back, but I did notice that the nearer I got to big cities the faster and more aggressive the driving seemed to become which pretty much fits in with my experiences back home.

    To sum up, take your time, do as the locals do and enjoy the African experience on your Road Trip. And consider the speed limit rules, drive slowly “Hakuna Matata”in Africa

  • Things to Consider When Going on a Self Drive in Uganda

    Self-drive is regarded as one of the best option while on a safari, driving yourself on a safari has a lot of advantages in that, you have a lot of freedom in your car and you are free to drive at your own pace at your convenient time.

    You are free to book the type of car you desire depending on your destination. The method of hiring cabs and taxis has faded up so, many travelers are interested in driving themselves.  Many car hire companies are available to offer you the best service; however it’s advised to book with a genuine car hire company to get the best service.

    There are very many Uganda car rentals on streets offering the same services, but if you are not steady you may end up booking with wrong people and hence ending up having a bad experience on your safari. In order to get the best companies offering the best service, it’s advised to search on the internet and choose with a genuine one after reading more information and profile of a company. Once you have got the car hire company to hire a car from, you must keep safe on the road; remember you are driving in a strange country.

    The following dos and don’ts should be put into consideration in order to have a successful and a wonderful self-drive safari.

    • You should not forget the following items during your self-drive safari such as a first aid kid, spare parts at list you should talk to the car hire agency and reserve some for you, Don’t forget also, a spare petrol to last at least 300km allowing for gear driving on rough roads, water of filtered quality and for refilling the engines cooling system if it bursts among many other things that you thing are of importance.
    • On bumpy roads, you should avoid over speeding, the most relaxed driving speed is about 60km/h. you should be very conscious on the road and abstain from sudden navigation movements and breaking at the same time both of which can result in sliding. Reducing down the speed early and gentle breaking irregular with carefully dosed accelerator application , will prevent the car from going out of control
    • Once you see the fire ahead of bush/ road Stop, this may affect the car remember the fire’s front 500m in length and the fire doesn’t always move in a straight line as you may assume. it’s always very difficult to judge the course and progress from a moving vehicle with bends, slopes, trees, anthill and other obstacles, so you may be confused and hence losing the view ahead
    • Before navigating the flooded stretches of the road, or rivers that aren’t too deep for the car, first remove the fan belt water from spraying around which could upset the electrical systems of the engine.
    • Keep the speed limit while on the road for the good of your safety, the general speed limit on Uganda roads are 100km/h, don’t overtake unless overtaking. On many roads you will find many traffic offers smartly dressed to ensure that the road users obey the rules of the road. If you’re caught over speeding, not having a valid insurance sticker or driving permit, having an working windscreen wipers, you will be presented with a charge sheet to clear at a bank within 28days; so always be careful while driving on the road.
    • Once you have experienced a flat tyre during the road trip, you are advised to park on the left side of the road and vice versa. Most of African roads are rarely level and are most likely to slope down towards the shoulders leaving inadequate allowance for the jack if the pierced tyre is on the road verge.
    • Avoid parking in savannah or patches especially during dry seasons, this may put your car at risk of catching fire in that the exhaust pipe or other hot engine part will burn the perched vegetation and trigger off a fire possibly damaging or destroying the car.
    • Petrol from remote filling stations or dubious pumps, drums or jerry cans might be dirty. To protect the engine, it may be careful to use nylon stockings or some similar materials to filter the petrol while filling up.
    • Before starting your road tip, you are advised to check the vehicle carefully and ask to take it for a test drive. Even if you’re not well conversant about the working of the engines, a few minutes on the road should be adequate to establish whether it has any serious upsetting creaks, rattles or other noises, you don’t understand, check well also the condition of tyres, this is very vital. Don’t forget to carry the driving permit, photocopy of the vehicle registration book, and the vehicle certificate of insurance.

  • Going on a Self Drive Safari in Nigeria

    Driving a rental car or private car in a new destination like Nigeria can really challenging as you have a lot to observe or get yourself familiar with. Renting a car in Nigeria necessarily given the unreliable public transportation. But here some of the essentials you should know about driving in Nigeria.

    Driver’s license in Nigeria

    Nigeria doesn’t recognize foreign licenses, meaning in order for you to drive you must have a valid Nigeria driver’s license to drive a rental car/ride motorcycle. It is easier and faster to obtain a Nigerian driver’s license by simply enrolling into any of the accredited driving school. You can attend the prescribed program prior presenting yourself to the vehicle inspection office for driving test.

    After you have got the vehicle inspection office driving certificate of proficiency, you can visit the closest Driver’s License Centre to fill a registration form then you will need to pay some money about NGN 6000. Once you are done with this tedious process, you can be offered a temporary driver’s license that is valid at least 2 months then later, you will have a permanent Nigerian driver’s license.

    State of roads in Nigeria

    Generally, most parts of Nigeria’s roads are in poor conditions and not up to the international standard and you need to be keen when driving a rental car. There are road signs/traffic control police officers to ensure driving rules are observed to minimize road accidents.

    Highway code in Nigeria

    As per Nigeria’s Federal Highway Code, motor vehicles drive on the right-hand side and a speed limit of 40kms per hour should be maintained within towns then 80kms per hr while in intercity roads. 120kms per hr speed limit should be maintained while on expressways. Ensure relevant license, registration documents and insurance are with you.

    Finding a rental car in Nigeria

    Finding a car in Nigeria can be tedious! But car rental Nigeria makes it easier for you to find your dream car to navigate to your dream destination. We have wide selection of rental cars including 4×4 safari vehicles best suited for travel in the rural areas of Nigeria.

  • Go Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi from Kigali

    Is gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from Kigali possible? Yes, you can fly into Kigali and also be part of the thrilling mountain gorilla experience in Bwindi National Park. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park from Kigali is perfect for trekkers who would like to get the best of magical encounter with mountain gorillas yet at a relatively pocket friendly rate. Fly to Kigali International Airport and have 4 hours’ drive in our comfortable 4×4 drive car to Bwindi National Park in southwestern Uganda to kick off with your lifetime gorilla adventure. Trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park via Kigali-Rwanda is far better than, time saving compared to if you took a flight up to Entebbe International Airport then drive to Bwindi National Park which is 8-10 hours’ drive depending on the driver’s speed, route taken among other factors.

    Why go for gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park from Kigali

    With about half of 1004 mountain gorillas that still exist on planet earth all confined within the lush jungles of Uganda, a glimpse at these massive creatures in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is worth starting your gorilla safari from Kigali.

    Unlike other gorilla parks, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a home to 20 families all set for tourism and research purposes. To trek the habituated groups in Bwindi National Park, visitors start their treks from Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo or Rushaga sector. In Buhoma sector, the groups to explore include Rushegura, Habinyanja, Mubare and Katwe; Nkuringo region; the groups to trek include Nkuringo, Christmas and Bushaho; Ruhija region consists of Kyaguliro, Oruzogo, Bitukura and Mukiza gorilla family whereas Rushaga region comprises of Bweza, Mishaya, Kutu, Rwigi, Mucunguzi Nshongi, Busingye, Kahungye and Bikingi.

    Gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park from Kigali takes trekkers fewer hours than if they traveled directly from Entebbe Airport. To reach Bwindi from Kigali, you need only 4 hours compared to 8-10 hours if you traveled from Entebbe or Kampala. From Kigali, you will be driven via Chanika or Katuna border area to Bwindi.

    Trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi National Park is relatively cheaper with gorilla permits costing about US$700 per person for foreign non-residents; $600 for foreign residents and Ug.shs 250000 for East African citizens to secure a gorilla permit in Uganda which still remains pocket friendly compared to Rwanda where gorilla trekking permits cost US$1500 per person.

    Several of the gorilla safari lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are accessible from Kigali and they range from budget to luxury which gets everyone covered.

    After your thrilling gorilla trekking experience, you can sum up your trip by embarking on canoe ride along the magical Lake Bunyonyi which consists of 29 scenic islands and free from bilharzias, crocodiles making it ideal for swimmers.

    This also means that it is possible for you to take a 1 day gorilla tour in Bwindi National Park and the more days you spend, you have variety to enjoy including gorilla habituation experience, hiking, biking, Batwa and Bakiga cultural experience, bird watching to mention but a few.

    Staring your gorilla trip from Kigali gets you a chance to also embark on a city tour in Kigali with a chance to visit Kigali genocide memorable site for you to learn in depth about what took place during the 1994 Rwanda genocide. In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you can incorporate other experiences like hiking/forest walks, biking, birding, Batwa encounter and others.

    How to get gorilla permits

    Gorilla permits for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest can be obtained through our reservation team or directly with reservationist at Uganda Wildlife Authority. About 160 gorilla permits are available for booking in Bwindi alone however, you need to book your permit in advance to avoid any kind of disappointments. Each gorilla trekking permit costs $600-for foreign non-residents; $500-foreign residents; UGX.250000-for East African citizens. However, come 1st July 2020, gorilla permits will be issued out at $700, $600 and shs.250000 respectively.

    Best time to go for gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park

    Bwindi National Park is open to visitors on gorilla trekking safari throughout the year. But it is perfectly explored during the dry season which starts in June, July, August and September. Or pay a visit to this park for gorilla trekking in second phase of dry spell which occurs in December, January and February. While weather conditions are ideal during the dry season for gorilla trekking, the wet or rainy season is also gives you get another option to realize your dreams. It begins in March, April, May and October, November although this period is characterized by heavy rainfall.

    What to pack on your gorilla safari in Bwindi National Park

    In your packing list for gorilla trekking, you need to consider essentials first including waterproof hiking boots, water, energy giving snacks, first aid kit, camera with no flashlight, long sleeved shirts/t-shirt, trousers, hat, sunscreen, walking stick-this can be got at the park or lodge, sweater, rain jacket/poncho and others.

    Where to spend a night in Bwindi National Park

    Bwindi National Park has wide range of accommodation options for your overnight stay. You can opt for budget, midrange or luxury. Luxury options include Buhoma Lodge/Clouds Mount Gorilla Lodge/Gorilla Forest Camp/Chameleon Hill Lodge/Mahogany Springs Lodge; midrange options include Gorilla Mist Camp/Gorilla Valley Lodge/Nkuringo Gorilla Camp/Engagi Lodge; Budget options-Broadbill Forest Camp/Buhoma Community Rest Camp/Wagtail Eco Safari Camp.

    In conclusion, gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park from Kigali is exceptional in that trekkers are able to save not only time but also money for other safari activities or things.

  • Why Explore Uganda on Self Drive than On Customized Safari

    If Africa is your next destination to explore, Uganda should be on your bucket list. This remarkable locale has plenty to offer for adventure travelers. Varying from Wildlife, culture, delicious local cuisine, vast landscapes, and history to striking cityscapes.

    Hidden in the Eastern region of the African continent, this home of welcoming locals share borders with Democratic Republic of Congo in the West, Kenya in the East, Rwanda in the South west, South Sudan in the north and Tanzania in the South.

    You can easily get there by air transport means and you will land at Entebbe International Airport. Some documentations (valid passport, yellow fever vaccination card and Visa) are required for entry permission, therefore don’t forget to pack them.

    To give a brief highlight, with travelers opting for self drive in Uganda usually hire a car to get around different spots in the country. Then for a customized Safari everything (safari logistics) is arranged with a local tour operator.

    Once you ask travelers, of the two which one is the best? Some say a customized safari and other say Self-drive. It is hard to choose for the best because travelers’ interests differ, but listed below are the main reasons why you should appreciate Uganda’s natural scenery by Self-drive other than a customized safari.

    It offers Privacy

    If privacy is your thing then you should opt to renting a Car and drive yourself to the country’s points of interest. Without presence of anyone else, you can do everything you would wish.

    Cost Friendly

    Once you choose to hire a car for self-drive, the things to cater for include fuel, car costs and accommodation. There are no costs for the driver guide and other simple things.

    If you want to make your budget even more pocket friendly, you can hire camping gears and camp in the reserved camp grounds mostly found in National Parks, game reserves and sanctuaries.

    Opportunity to discover hidden spots

    Self-drive usually creates more time for travelers to discover numerous hidden spots including the off the beaten path draws which is not the case for a customized safari. With a customized Safari, you have to follow the customized itinerary and no changes to the program once it’s confirmed.

    Flexibility

    With Self-drive, it is you to decide what to do, where to go and where to be at any period of time for your rental. Therefore, this gives you more freedom to do whatever thing you want during your vacation. Program alteration is also common since it is you to make the decision.

    Adventure at your own pace

    Not like a customized Safari that you have an itinerary to follow, with Self-drive it is you to control yourself.

    Uganda has a lot of things to see, therefore reserve more time for your Self-drive vacation and you will have plenty to relish. Once you are delighted by a certain spot, you are free to change the plans and stick to what is more inspiring you.

    Real life Experience

    There is no better way to engage in real life like driving along the muddy and slippery roads in Uganda than Self-drive. While deep in the villages, you will associate with locals, taste some delicious local cuisine and as well feel the real experience once the car get stuck in mud. Don’t forget the gumboots, gloves and other protective gears. This is really a great adventure you shouldn’t miss once in a lifetime.

  • Travel Tips to Make Your Safari Easier

    The Safari Guide can help you get ready for even the most surprising problems that can happen during any trip. Travel tips can also help save you time and money; here are some to get you going in the right direction.

    If you’re visiting a museum or other tourist attraction, make sure to ask about any special discount rates for which you might be eligible. Look out for any specials for children, groups (if you qualify), students and seniors. Not only tourist attractions offer these but often you will find great deals at hotels and restaurants, too.Make sure your passport is in order and you have the proper papers when traveling abroad. Be aware of any expiration dates so you are not surprised in a foreign country. Keep your important papers in a safe place and even on you to avoid loss.

    Travel Off Season

    Travel off season for even better rates; and try to stay away from traveling during peak hours. Be aware of the prices of flights and times of flights. Save money by flying when its not so busy. Flying on Tuesday can be as much as $100 or more less expensive than flying on Friday. This is due to the fact that many more people travel on the weekends as opposed to the weekdays.

  • How to Book a Gorilla Safari

    To many prospective tourists, booking a safari in Africa is quite hard. When it reaches to the point of booking a tour and wiring money to a foreign tour operator, it seems hard to get that trust. However after booking and enjoying a safari in Africa,  I can advise on how to book a safari.

    After I inquired about the safari the tour operator sent mi details of what the Uganda gorilla safari package will cover and this included;

    • Gorilla Permit.
    • Cultural entertainment
    • Park Ranger Fees
    • Relevant Government Taxes.
    • Full Board Accommodation (2 nights) and en-route meals as indicated in the itinerary.
    • Full time English speaking Driver/Guide
    • Ground Transportation by a 4×4 safari vehicle
    • Airport transfer, as long as your flight is on the same day on which the safari ends.

    Safari Exclusions:                                                                                                                                  

    • Airfares  
    • Visa Fees    
    • Personal Insurance
    • Expenses of personal nature such as; drinks, tips, laundry, telephone, cigarettes, accommodation & meals not indicated in the itinerary and optional activities.

    Extra Services:

    Airport transfers Entebbe-Kampala (USD 40$), Kampala-Entebbe- (USD 30$)

    Booking accommodation for you (Night before safari starts and night after safari in case your flight is on the next day). We recommend the following accommodations:

    I’m so very excited that I can’t wait to travel to Uganda for my 3 days gorilla package.

  • How to Choose the Best African Safari

    Choosing the best African safari from the multitude of amazing sounding trips isn’t an easy thing to do. Africa is a large continent and the possibilities to explore it are endless. This magical continent features a strong hold of safari possibilities on the planet, ranging from the endless savanna grasslands to extensive deserts and zigzag deltas and so, choosing the best safari for you is something very tricky.

    However, there is a safari in Africa for everyone regardless of your wallet size or schedule. Whether you are interested in mountain gorilla trekking expeditions in Uganda, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) or game viewing in the pristine wilderness areas of South Africa, Namibia, Kenya, Tanzania, Africa has you covered. An African safari is by far a lifetime experience and that is why it is essential for you to get it right and return home when filled with lots of memories. When choosing the best African safari, it is important to put into consideration your personal type and destination preferences.

    Decide what you need to see on African safari

    In order for you to choose the best African safari, first you need know what you would like to see. This will help you know when you should travel and the destination you plan to visit. If your interest is to see mountain gorillas then gorilla trekking safari should be your bucket-list adventure. It should be noted that some wildlife prefer specific habitat and it is where they can be sighted depending on the destination you choose to visit. Mountain gorillas for instance thrive only in Uganda, Rwanda and the DRC. In Uganda, they live in only Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park; in Rwanda in Volcanoes National Park and the Virunga National Park in the DR Congo.

    For starters, Africa is known for its big five game (Elephants, Buffaloes, Rhinos, Lions and Leopards). They are the iconic mammals and they can be spotted in Southern and East Africa. The popular places to catch a glimpse at these magnificent mammal species include the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, Kruger National Park in South Africa. In case you need to see the black rhinos then Etosha National Park of Namibia should be a must-visit destination. Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe and Chobe National Park in Botswana are exceptionally popular for their huge concentration of elephants. To witness the great wildebeest migration, Masai Mara National Reserve and Serengeti National Park are the two magical destinations to consider a must-visit on African safari.

    Means of transport

    Most safaris in Africa are best conducted in a comfortable 4×4 drive safari vehicles. But for those of you who wish to get out of the usual experiences then camping, nature walks/walking safaris are exceptional options to explore and experience what Africa has to offer the world.

    You can also enjoy a self drive safari in East Africa and drive your own adventure through the famous national parks of Masai Mara, Serengeti, Tarangire, Amboseli etc. All you need is a good 4×4 car rental for your safari.

    South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is famous for its walking safari experience in the Southern Africa. For adrenaline adventures, the source of the Nile at Jinja should be a must-visit. A visit to Africa has now become easier than ever before-we have wide range of rental cars which accommodate traveler’s interest whether you are interested in a car hire with roof top tents or for large groups.

    Decide on your preferred level of independence

    As well, you need to know if you prefer traveling in a group, part of a private guided tour or as an individual. Each of these has their benefits and setbacks that is why it is essential that you choose the best that suits your personality. Group safaris covers a planned itinerary with set activities designed for each day of your trip. Given the nature of this trip, higher chances are that you will come across strangers and you may make new friends or find yourself out of place. The advantage with it is that you have opportunity to share the cost with possibility to enjoy discounts. Private guided tours are a better alternative for those of you who would like to leave the task of arranging bookings to an agency while also benefiting from the expertise of a knowledgeable guide in the bush. It offers travelers freedom to tailor their travel plans to suit within their travel interests and no need to worry about group dynamics. The disadvantage with private guided tours is that they are costly. Alternatively, you can opt for self-drive safaris that provide you absolute independence on your road trip.

    Choose the right season

    Choosing the right time to visit Africa for a holiday can save some money on your trip. In case you are interested in bird watching then December-March is preferably the best time to visit Africa. Birding is one astonishing experience offered to visitors on African safari. Africa hosts diversity of bird species including flamingos, shoe bill storks, great blue turacos, bee-eaters, king fishers, fish eagles to mention but a few.