Car Hire Vs Public Transportation in Uganda
Is it worth to rent a car in Uganda or better to use public transport? Yes, you have planned for a safari to Uganda but you aren’t in position to choose between hiring a car or embark on public transportation? Well, this is an area where most travelers find themselves just stuck but, in this article, we bring to you relevant information, comparisons between the different transportation means.
Comfort
Comfort is key when it comes to Uganda safaris! You can be assured of a comfortable road trip in Uganda only in a rental car. Although public transportation is considered cheap and takes you to where you need, it is not comfortable compared to traveling using a rental car. A rental car lets you enjoy a smooth road trip without being squeezed unlike public means.
Availability
Public means is always present and cheaper than rental cars. But there are also relatively cheaper and affordable car hire services provided by majority of car rental companies in Uganda. These cover couples, solo travelers, large groups, researchers, business, city tours, holiday makers, family trips among others.
Wide range of rental cars
The advantage of hiring a car in Uganda is that the renter is presented with variety to choose from. You select the best for your road trip to ensure you have comfort and the rental car suits your travel desires. At car rental Uganda, we have everyone sorted when it comes to Uganda car rental services. Our fleet ranges from 4×4 Toyota Rav4, Land Cruisers, Super Customs, Vans, Saloon cars to coaster buses.
Flexibility
Hiring a car in Uganda for a road assures the renter of a flexible trip unlike public means of transport. There is room for you to decide when, where to make a stopover which is not the case with public means or even what type of music to play and listen to. Unlike public means, car rental services provide room for self-drive tours, a flexible experience that assures you of your privacy.
Hire a car and your own driver
When you hire a car, at times you can even hire your own chauffeur. These driver guides are experienced and know the directions to every Uganda safari destination thus guaranteeing you a smooth trip.
Efficiency and time saving
Majority of the public taxis or buses link travelers to major towns but with rental cars, visitors get to penetrate deep into the rural destinations. Most of the Uganda safari parks and other destinations are found in rural areas which public buses or taxis don’t access. This can save you a lot both money wise and also time.
Read MoreHow to Find a Cheap Car Rental in Uganda
Is Uganda where you have always wished to spend your holiday and you do not how best you can get to that dream destination? To make your safari holiday a successful one, you need that special car to hire to help you get to that particular tourist site of your dreams. By finding that dream car hire in Uganda, you have opportunity to discover different parts of Uganda whether on a self-drive or guided tour. While there are many car hire companies in most major towns in Uganda, on the other hand, you have to be very keen on which company you wish to deal with. Most importantly, you need to deal with a trust worthy, recognized, reliable Car Hire Company. That said, we are that one recognized Car Rental Company you can choose to deal with and we have a wide range of car hire options for you to realize your dreams in this magical country this coming season. For any need to embark on a road trip in Uganda and you are looking for that relatively cheaper car to hire, below are some of the best tips that you need to put into consideration while choosing for one;
The rates
The fact that there are many car rental companies that offer nearly the same services, one needs to take note that every company has its own price tag. Before you think of hiring a car in any car rental agency, you need to first look at the prices. Most importantly, you need to look at different companies and see what their prices then make comparisons to see which one offers competitive rates with best offers.
This becomes one major critical factor to consider when searching for that best car for your road trip. Take your time and make the best and sound decisions, first we advise you to carry out a search on most of the car rental companies and this is just to help you make comparisons on their prices and see which one offers the best competitive prices within your travel means and needs. You really need to be very careful on this factor. Others can be cheaper or expensive but consider which offers do they have. Most of the car rental companies have web sites that you visit to see which one has the best prices with other offers. The one with the best price and offers can be the best for you to book with.
Do not be on rush
Uganda and Rwanda have several car rental companies distributed throughout the country and have any kind of car at different cost and it is for this reason that we encourage you to look at different choices available prior confirming with that company you intend to deal with. A recognized car rental company has a web site and perhaps reviews and contacts that once you visit, you are able to go through them or simply contact them directly. It is important that look through different companies and see which one has the best rates and offers.
Choose the right car
Prior making any inquiry, know how many people are traveling with depending on which safari you intend to embark on. If it is a large group trip then a small car rental may not of any use or if you are two there is no need for you to get a coaster and yet there are good sizes that can accommodate small groups. Note that each car comes with its price and your choice matters! For those of you who are planning to go as a couple or a group of 4 people, a salon car can be the best option and for larger groups, a coast or minivan can be ideal.
Opt for a self-drive
While most people go for guided tours, you can do it otherwise by opting for self-drive. With self-drives, you have a chance to have your privacy and it is very flexible and pocket friendly. Most importantly, self-drive cars come with GPS-Global Positioning System to help you when it comes to directions.
Cross check for any discounts and other special offers
Most car hire companies provide car at discount rates depending on the season and the length of your trip thus making it relatively cheaper than if you hired it at a normal cost. The low season usually occurs in March, April or May and you can get that dream car at the cheapest rate.
Read MoreExplore Uganda at Your Own Pace On Self Drive
Are you tired of being restricted to visiting a few places? Uganda would be the most ideal destination due to the existence of Self drive safaris that are up for grabs. These amazing expeditions make one travel at his/her own pace without being guided or timetabled. Self drive car rentals ensure that the traveler maximizes the travel time in Uganda while exploring different tourism destinations like national parks, cultural sites and unique natural resources. These services are also extended to other travelers other than explorers for instance people on business trip, visiting family and friends and also political meetings. What gives travelers an added advantage while driving in Uganda is that the road network is well developed and makes the tourism destinations easily accessible.
For the vacationers enjoying the wildlife, sand and sun of Uganda be assured of limitless mobility to different tourism destinations. Self drive expedition gives a traveler the freedom to move at his/her schedule to explore whatever attraction he/she may encounter while on the vacation in Uganda. These kinds of tour engagements are very adventure as one discovers new things and also moves out of the comfort zone to explore the foreign world of Uganda on his/her own. It deprives a traveler from laziness and being dull as he/she does everything for his/herself without any guide from a third party. After the self drive trip around the natural world of Uganda, the traveler gets that self contentment of discovering and also encountering something out of his/her zone by him/herself. How lovely and awesome that is! A Uganda self drive tour is this kind of experience an adventurous tourist would not miss in his/her illustrious travel life.
Self drive rentals are also used for business trip. The trip becomes so much more productive when you can set your schedule based on being able to drive from one appointment to appointment. Truth to be told, a business trip in Uganda is best conducted by renting a car which leads a businessman to the meeting time in a time to effectively kill off the deal. Car rentals are convenient and reliable as a businessman can easily access at anytime of the time since they do not have a timetable to travel and these lead you to each and every part of Uganda as long as it is accessible by road. The car rental companies in Uganda have different exquisite vehicle to offer to its business traveler and the business traveler is guaranteed of impressing his/her client due to the car he/she comes out when meeting them. These cars are very nice but come an affordable price for example a Toyota land cruiser v8 for business class is at US$ 200 per day. It is really a very offer to a person who is going to use this kind of vehicle to cut a deal and save some dollars.
No matter what your travel situation, 4×4 Uganda is likely to have the option that you need for personal transportation needs while in the pearl of Africa for safari vacations or business trip. With available options like the GPS and the child seats, you and the whole family can be comfortable in your rental car as you enjoy the boundless beauty of Uganda.
Read MoreCraftsmanship in Uganda
Uganda as a beautiful country is naturally endowed with a lot of natural resources which are used by the local communities to earn a living. The practice of specializing in making hand crafts has been going on for ages. These crafts are not only made to mint money but they are made as a form of self expression. The crafts reflect about the history, environment, beliefs and culture of Uganda. From a particular region, you will find that they are different natural resources which will determine the type of crafts made.
For instance the Baganda specialize in making bark cloth which is made from a particular tree specie. Referred to as Olubugo in the local language, it is a stiff orange fabric material that is used to make bags, shirts, hats to mention but a few.
Other crafts include woven baskets and mats which are an essential in a local homestead. They are usually woven into intricate patterns to display a high level of skill. Mats are used to decorate the home or used as a seat during meal and story time.
Baskets are beautifully crafted bowls which are made from reeds and bamboo. Large baskets keep millet bread from going cold while the smaller ones are filled with snacks like groundnuts and roasted maize seeds to serve the visitor as a sign that they are welcome in the host’s home.
Spoons, bowls, stools and mingling sticks are artfully carved out of wood. The outcome is at times so breathtaking that instead of being put to use, they are decorated. They are produced out of the best wood like mahogany and ebony and then polished to give it a spotless look.
Musical instruments are also made out of bamboo and wood. These include flutes, hide drums, African harps that are used to make entertainment and during leisure. Drums are at times played when a local meeting is about to seat or to make a death announcement. During the happier times, flutes, harps and drums are played to thank the gods for a big harvest.
Jewellery like necklaces, bangles and earrings are made from paper, wood and beads. Jewellery making has improved the welfare of women in East Africa.
So please next time you are in Uganda, do buy a souvenir to support the women and local communities at large.
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5 Best Safaris in Uganda
Planning for a holiday in Africa but wondering about which place to visit? A safari in Uganda offers tourists with various experiences ranging from gorilla trekking to other adventures like classic wildlife game viewing and cultural interaction experiences.
1. Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
A gorilla tracking safari to Bwindi is one of the must do activities that can be taken by travelers to Uganda. No wonder today, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the number on visited tourist destination in Uganda. This park offers the lifetime opportunity to watch the endangered mountain gorillas in the wild. The mountain gorillas are among the biggest of all apes! They can be found only in three countries in the world; Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic republic of Congo. Bwindi Impenetrable Forests hosts nearly half of the total population of the mountain gorillas. For over 2 decades, Bwindi National Park is the best site to track down the family of gorillas.
The tracking experience is challenging with a lot of excitement as you come across other primates like monkeys while also spotting different bird species.The less known Mgahinga National Park is another amazing place to see the mountain gorillas in Uganda. Despite gorilla tracking, Mgahinga also offers the chance of seeing the golden monkeys within the park, hiking the volcanic mountains, and enjoying the scenic beauty of both Uganda and Rwanda.
2. Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest
Tracking the wild and noisy chimpanzees of Kibale National Park also gives the best safari experience for Uganda travelers. Located in Western Uganda, Kibale is one of the best places on the African continent to see the chimpanzees. The park has the highest density of chimpanzees and the chimpanzee tracking experience is incomparable to other destination in the world. A chimpanzee tracking safari is one of the exciting safaris that you will not want to miss. Come and track the human-like animal in this forest and have a chance to see the closest living relative of human being that has not evolved. Apart from chimpanzees the park also hosts 13 other primates species that include monkeys, pottos, galagos etc.
3. A Wildlife Safari
A game viewing safari in various savanna national parks offers the amazing experience of enjoying wild game on which you will see the traditional wild animals of Africa. A game drive is one of the best activities that offer you the advantage of seeing the wild games in their natural habitats. Visiting the Savannah National Parks of Murchison falls, Queen Elizabeth, Lake Mburo and Kidepo is a better option to view wild game such as elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, various tribes of antelopes etc. Enrich your experience while on your safari visit by seeing the Pride of lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, spotted hyenas, herd of buffaloes, giraffes among other. Feel free to enjoy a family safari on one of the wildlife safaris in Uganda.
4. Cultural Safaris
Uganda is also a culturally diverse destination with over 65 tribes that have got impressive heritage depicted in their unique dances and performances, arts and crafts, ceremonies and festivities and norms and customs. The Imbalu circumcision ceremony for example among the Bagisu is a memorable cultural encounter that can make your stay in Uganda really amazing.
5. Rwenzori Mountain Trekking
The mythical mountains of the moon – the Rwenzoris offers a great hiking experience on the African continent. Located in western Uganda along the Uganda-Congo border, the Rwenzoris rise to 5,109m. The central circuit trail takes you up to the equatorial snow peaks, the third highest point in Africa. A hike takes you through various vegetation zones moorland, bamboo and rich, moist montane forest. A typical hiking trip takes nine- to twelve-day tour in Uganda!
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Go White Water Rafting in Uganda
Jinja town is one of the traditional districts in Uganda and before the Europeans came to the town it was first prominently known as the small fishing village that was located in banks of longest River Nile and with the arrival of the British colonial rule in 1906, the town started to grow very fast. At first as trading Centre as well as river crossing area and later it was turned to an industrial town of Uganda. Currently Jinja which is well known as adventure district of Uganda is one of the interesting historical districts in Uganda endowed with different natural and artificial attraction pulling tourists to book safaris to Uganda.
In the mid-19thcentury Jinja town had grown very fast and occupies by different people such as the Indians, as well as Africans, and European. The construction of the Owen Falls dam led to generation of hydro-electricity and this uplifted the statutes of the town into an industrial city in Uganda and it attracted foreigners to take safaris in Uganda to identify investment opportunities.Bad news came during the political crises of the 1970s during the regime of President Amin who decided to push all the Indians who were running the industries in Jinja. This greatly affected the town and hard to pull its development down but today the only town visitors should yarn to visit when on their Uganda adventure safaris is Jinja.
Jinja town is where the source of the longest river in the world is located and also visitors interested in taking a tour to this town has got an opportunity to participate in white water rafting on the Nile.Jinja is point where the rapids stretch up in the Nile and therefore visitors to this place can enjoy spectacular places in the whole of Africa when participating white –water rafting. Rafting in this place is very intense but safety is guaranteed to tourists when carrying out the activity as the team of expert guides have to give you company through the experience. Always rafting trips are followed by a rescue fleet so that for any visitors who find it unbearable can retreat.
Uganda safaris destination of Jinja offers travelers who are seeking adventure experience to enjoy their safaris in the source on the Nile in Jinja town .The adventurous town is blessed with the worldwide best organizers of the rafting activities including Adrift who were among the first people to invest in the adrenaline services and market their products to travelers on Uganda safaris.
Travelers who are non-experts in adventurous activities like rafting in the standard rapid falls are also catered for because there are less extreme options where such travelers can also enjoy and get an interesting wonderful experience and this option even caters for a family float trip.
In addition victors can also have wonderful experience in white water by participating in the adventurous activities like Kayaking. The memorable experience here starts from training course offered to visitors as well as guided trip which is done through the interesting but scaring raging rapids.Besides that visitors on their Uganda safari can also get involved in boat cruises and this means Jinja is really an adventurous district so for any visitor looking for destination to enjoy adventurous activities, he or she confirm safari to Uganda the pearl of Africa.
Read MoreBuganda Sacred Sites Offering Tourism Opportunities
Since ancient times, sacred sites have had a mysterious allure for billions of people around the world. Legends and contemporary reports tell of extraordinary experiences people have had while visiting these places. Different sacred sites have the power to heal diseases, enlighten the mind and inspire the heart.
According to Martin Gray an Anthropologist spent thirty years studying and photographing hundreds of sacred sites in more than one hundred and twenty-five countries. After his study he was able to discuss the mythology and history of sacred sites and presents a fascinating explanation of the miraculous phenomena that occur at them.
As people continued to learn and know more about the sacred sites, many sacred sites have been identified as places of tourism interest in different countries across the world. For example the Kasubi tombs in uganda, sezibwa falls, Roman Catholics in Uganda (St. Mary’s Cathedral Rubaga Cathedral), Bahai temple, Namugongo shrines,Ssese Island Sacred sites at both at Nanziri falls (Bukasa ) and Bubeke famouse for Wanema historical shirine plus many others.However,Roasted coffee beans wrapped in dry banana fibres, varying sizes of baskets, gourds and spears with unique shapes are the commonest features in the sacred shrines of Ssese islands.
The Nanziri falls
This is an hour’s twisty trek through grassland and thick forest to the first sacred site en-route to Nanziri falls and the Nanziri cave. Tourists have to keep quiet and remove shoes as they approach a rock shaped like a chair, which is believed to be the guard’s seat. It is here that the guide briefs visitors on dos and don’ts as well as the sacrifices including roasted coffee beans, coins or meat to appease the spirits and Nanziri, the god of the waterfalls. The remains of burnt firewood is evidence of sacrifices offered at this site.
Visitors also move down to the Nanziri cave with various chambers believed to be rooms from where more sacrifices are made and prayers for blessings and fortunes including fertility, wealth, protection, long life, safety while travelling on water and heavy catches of fish, are sought. The waterfalls cascade over a 40-feet high rock into a shallow pool in which people seeking blessings and healings from various ailments swim oblivious of anyone looking at them. The guide insists that there is no known river feeding the falls but a spring that never dries and is powered by Nanziri, the god of this site, Kibuuka the god of war and Mukasa, the god of the lake.
Wanema’s shrine
This is found on the same island about four kilometres away at Bubeke.The palace characterised by grass-thatched houses and a well-maintained reed fence which is maintained by elderly women, who are armed with a wealth of information about its history, cultural and importance to the islanders and Buganda kingdom. Taking photos is by luck on this site because even camera shutters might not open after all. Various rituals are performed, sacrifices made and prayers offered by hundreds of people who are seeking fortunes. The attendants explain that only prayers for healing are encouraged as long as one believes in what they are seeking. Those whose prayers are answered return voluntarily with gifts of appreciation like goats, money and chicken. On another island called Bugembe is a popularly visited site, which is treated with awe. A well-maintained compound with grass-thatched houses, where rituals are performed for fortunes. According to the custodians, it is famous for giving wealth, fertility to women and partners to the singles. For those looking for a unique cultural tour in Africa, Uganda is your place to be.
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Choosing the Right Car for Hire in Uganda
So you’ve decided to do a self drive in Uganda for your next holiday – congrats! You’ve got the trip of a lifetime ahead of you. The next question, of course, is what kind of car you should hire. The answer to that will depend on a few key things. Where exactly are you going to self drive Uganda? How many people are coming along for the ride? What’s your budget?
We’ve put together some important points to consider when deciding what type of car you need to hire for yourself drive in Uganda.
Think about the kind of terrain you’ll be driving through
The first question you need to ask yourself is whether you need a 4×4 or any other kind of car as long as it is in good condition. This will depend on where yourself drive in Uganda or East Africa is going to take you.
For the most part, Uganda’s main roads are in very good condition apart from those leading to the major national parks and other tourist attractions of importance. Most of the time, it’s entirely advisable to self drive yourself in Uganda in a 4×4 vehicle. If you plan on sticking to main motorways and visiting relatively built-up areas, you’ll be fine with just any other vehicle like sedan. If you’re unsure, ask campsites, guesthouses and adventure activity operators what the roads are like in the area when you’re making reservations but your car renting company can as well provide such important information to you. Remember, local people on the ground can give you the most accurate and up to date info.
If you plan on going off the beaten track, however, you should consider getting a 4×4. There’s nothing worse than being unable to do a little exploring because your car can’t handle the roads. If you’re planning on visiting areas like Bwindi impenetrable forest national park, Queen Elizabeth or Murchison falls national park, hiring a 4×4 is advisable. If you’re planning to self drive Uganda in summer, make sure that your hired car comes with air conditioning.
The Ugandan sun is a glorious thing. In fact, it’s probably one of the reasons you’ve chosen to holiday here in the first place. However, during long drives on hot summer’s days, you’ll be infinitely more comfortable if your car has air conditioning.
Opt for the most fuel-efficient car
On a self drive in Uganda, fuel costs are going to be one of your biggest expenses. Keep this in mind when picking a hire car; a fuel-efficient vehicle can save you a chunk of cash. Your car rental company will be able to give you an estimate of each car’s fuel consumption per kilometer, which you can then use to work out how much you need to budget for fuel.
How many people are traveling?
Obviously, the number of people traveling will affect what kind of car you need. Don’t forget to think about everyone’s luggage, too. If the whole family’s coming along, you’ll need something with a sizeable trunk. It’s unsafe – not to mention uncomfortable – to squash both kids and bags on the backseat.
Consider hiring a camping-equipped vehicle.
If you’re after adventure and planning on camping on yourself drive in Uganda, consider hiring a camping-equipped 4×4. Camping-equipped vehicles come complete with rooftop tents, a fridge, bedding, kitchenware, chairs, a gas cooker and all the other bits and bobs you need to make your vehicle your ‘home on wheels’. All such vehicles are readily available for giving out at Uganda car rental at relatively cheap prices.
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7 Best Places to Visit in Western Uganda
The western region consists several districts including Mbarara, Bushenyi, Kasese, Kiruhura, Kabarole, Rubirizi, Mitooma among others. When it comes to tourism, western Uganda out competes other regions due to its tourist attractions and activities that offer memorable experience.
A combination of beautiful landscape, rivers, lakes, variety of bird and primate species and many other wild animals offer you a fascinating experience when you visit western Uganda.
Western Uganda attracts many tourists because of its major tourist destination below:
Queen Elizabeth National Park
It is located in western Uganda spanning the districts of Kasese, Kamwenge, Rubirizi and Rukungiri, extending from Lake Edward and Lake George separated by Kazinga channel. It is located along Mpondwe road in Rubirizi district and Uganda’s second largest National park covering a land of 1978 square kilometers.
Queen Elizabeth National park is the most popular destination well known for its concentration of wild animals, bird species and primate species. The activities in Queen Elizabeth National park include game drives in the Kasenyi sector, Mweya peninsular, Katwe salt mines, Bunyaruguru Crater Lake, Munyanyanga Crater Lake, chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura gorge, nature walks, cultural encounters to Kikorongo community village, leopard village, the Equator, launch trips on Kazinga channel.
Queen Elizabeth National park shelters over 600 bird species and more than 95 mammal species including elephants, lions, leopards, warthogs, antelopes, buffaloes, water bucks, bush bucks, chimpanzees, monkey species, hippos, Uganda kobs, Elands, Topis, tree climbing lions which are only found in Ishasha sector, birds like whited winded, swamp nightjar, Africa fish eagle, African kingfisher, white egrets, African morning dove, weaver birds among others. There are chimpanzees in Kyambura gorge in Maramagambo forest.
All these wild animals can be viewed during day and night game drives, boat cruise on Kazinga channel, guided nature walks, birding and cultural tours.
Queen Elizabeth National park has beautiful accommodations which exceptional and wonderful services where visitors spend their time when they visit the park including; Mweya safari lodge, Queen Elizabeth bush lodge, Buffalo safari lodge, Ihamba lake side lodge, Kyambura game lodge, park view lodge, Enganzi lodge, Katara lodge among others.
Kibale Forest National Park
It is located in western Uganda in Kabarole district characterized of lowland, montane and rain forest type of forests. Kibale National park is the most popular destination for chimpanzee trekking, however there other areas where chimpanzee trekking is done including Budongo forest in Murchison Falls National park, Kyambura gorge in Queen Elizabeth National park, Toro Semuliki game reserve in the west and Kalinzu forest close to Queen Elizabeth National park but Kibale National park is the leading chimpanzee destination with over 1500 chimpanzees that consist of habituated and non-habituated chimpanzees. Besides chimpanzees, Kibale National park also hosts several wild animals like forest elephants, warthogs, bush pigs, duikers, African buffaloes among others, then monkey species like black and white colubus, olive baboons, blue tailed monkeys, vervet monkeys, Red tailed, L’Hoests monkeys among others.
Kibale National park also hosts over 325 birds species which include yellow potted nicator, African King Fisher, weaver birds, African grey parrot, pigeons, little greenbul and so on which can be viewed Kibale forest and others in Bigodi swamp sanctuary during nature walks.
Kibale National park has several accommodations including crater, safari lodge, Kyaninga lodge, Ndali lodge, primate lodge, chimpanzee safari lodge, Isunga lodge, Rweteera safari park among others which offer fascinating services.
Bwindi impenetrable National Park
Bwindi impenetrable National park is situated in south western Uganda in the district of Kanungu covering an area of 321 square kilometers. It is characterized with a thick tropical rain forest which shelters mountain gorillas which are Uganda’s major tourist attractions.
Bwindi impenetrable National park is well known destination for gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda done in 4 sectors; Buhoma sector in the north, Ruhija sector in the east, Rushaga and Nkuringo sector in the southern part of the park.
Bwindi impenetrable National park consists of 18 habituated gorilla families that are being trekked. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable National park is the major tourist activity in western Uganda and in Uganda generally due to its highest population of mountain gorillas. Bwindi impenetrable National park shelters over 449 mountain gorillas which are half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas which attracts the biggest number of tourists from all parts of the world.
Mountain gorillas are endangered primate species that are found in Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo in the whole world. A trip to western Uganda offers you the breath taking and memorable experience of gorilla trekking that you will not encounter anywhere else in Uganda. Gorilla trekking starts from the park headquarters with briefing in the morning guided by the ranger guides then they lead you to the forest for trekking, depending on how far the gorillas are, trekking may take 1-8 hours though not predictable.
Trekkers are advised to go with their trekking gears like rain jacket, trousers, long shirts and blouses, hiking boots, insect repellant, hut to protect from direct sun and rain, warm sweater and they should be above 15 years.
Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National park is located in Kiruhura district few kilometers from Mbarara city. Lake Mburo National park was formerly a hunting area but later gazette in to National park in 1963.
There are tourist activities done in Lake Mburo National park which attract travelers include game drives both day and night game drives, boat trips, nature walks, horse riding, fishing among others.
The park is the smallest savannah National park with a variety of animals like Antelopes, Zebras, Giraffes, hyenas, warthog, Eland, Uganda kob, impalas, Jackal and many others with over 300 bird species that attract travelers.
The park also has a variety of accommodations including Mihingo lodge, Arcadia lodge, Mburo safari lodge, Mantana tented camp, Rwakobo rock resort, Rwonyo rest camp and so on.
Mountain Rwenzori National Park
Mountain Rwenzori National park is located in western Uganda situated within the mountains of the moon in the East African Rift valley bordering Democratic Republic of Congo. Mountain Rwenzori is the third highest mountain In Africa with 5,109 meters high and its highest peak Margherita which is snowcapped.
Rwenzori National park and also a conservation area of the mountain is a UNESCO heritage that covers of 995 square kilometers shared by the districts of Kabarole, Bundibigyo and Kasese. It can be accessed via Fort Portal Kasese road to Rwenzori National park for 5-6 hours.
Rwenzori National park consists of several activities like mountaineering which is the major activity that attracts a number of travelers that come from different countries to hike mountain Rwenzori. Over 7500 travelers each year visit mountain Rwenzori especially to the highest peak of mount Stanley Margherita.
There is also hiking and nature walks done around Lake Mahooma and Buraro chimpanzee forest, Bundibugyo area through Bwamba pass where you come across wild animals like forest elephants, giant forest hog, duikers, leopards though rarely seen, the three horned chameleon which is only found in Rwenzori because it only stays in places which are 3000 meters above sea level, it is always fascinating on sighting it. Cultural encounters with the Bakonzo people and learn more about their cultures, daily activities, traditional dances, storytelling among others, the visitors also enjoy birding in Rwenzori National park with over 217 bird species that can be traced in the montane forests on the slopes of mountain Rwenzori.
Semuliki National Park
Semuliki National park is located in Bwamba County in Bundibugyo district in western Uganda on the border with Democratic Republic of Congo. It is one of Uganda’s newest National park and second last smallest National park covering an area of 220 square kilometers.
Semuliki National park has a variety of plant and animal species with ever green vegetation for game viewing activities, the park has over 40 mammal species and 600 bird species mostly enjoyed by birders.
Semuliki National park consists of wild animals including leopards, elephants, civets, hippos, forest buffaloes, primate species like chimpanzees, monkey species like olive baboons, blue monkeys, vervet monkeys, de brazzas monkeys, grey cheeked mangabeys, black and white among others.
Semuliki National park has variety of activities that travelers enjoy while on your safari to western Uganda including game drives which are done in the savannah grasslands of the park which offers views of wild animals like elephants, leopards, bush pigs, warthogs, birds and so on, then the sempaya hot springs which is the most popular tourist attraction in Semuliki National park. It is also said a safari to Semuliki National park with a visit to sempaya hot springs is incomplete, the hot water at sempaya hot spring is more than 100 degrees Celsius that is boil eggs until they are ready. Hiking and trails through the red monkey trail where you spot the monkeys buffaloes, elephants on the river and kirimia trail where you see a variety of bird species.
Cultural encounters to the Bambuti community where you learn more about their life style as the people of the forest, hand craft making, enjoy their music and dances and the birding at sempaya and Ntandi sites which offer excellent views of the white crested horn bill, pipping horn bill, yellowed throated nicator, great shoe bill among others. Semuliki National can be accessed via the shortest distance from Kampala Fort Portal via Mubende for 4-5 driving hours. It can be accessed via Kampala Masaka Mbarara Kasese Fort Portal for 7-8 hours which is quite long.
Lake Bunyonyi
Lake Bunyonyi is located in western Uganda between Kisoro and Kabale districts and close to border with Rwanda. It is also referred to as a bird paradise where it derived its name Lake Bunyonyi meaning a lake of small birds in the native language. It is the second deepest Lake in Africa.
Lake Bunyonyi is close to Kabale town in south western Uganda, it is about 6-7 hours drive from Kampala to Kabale and around more 8km from Kabale to Lake Bunyonyi on your way to Bwindi forest.
Lake Bunyonyi is also known to be with over 29 islands with 5 major ones that include Bushara island, Akampena (punishment) island, Kahungye island, Bwama and Njuyeera (sharp’s) island and Bucuranuka (upside down) island and each island has its history attached to it for example the punishment island is where the girls who got pregnant before marriage were thrown to die.
There are several activities at Lake Bunyonyi while on your safari to western Uganda and after hectic activities like gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable like canoeing and visit the different islands to see wild animals, birds, swimming since the lake is bilharzia free, relaxing at the beach, visiting the batwa village among others which offers travelers with experience of breath taking nature of Lake Bunyonyi.
Western Uganda is naturally blessed with exceptional tourist attractions worthy visiting like Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi impenetrable forest, Kibale National Park, Mountain Rwenzori National park, Semuliki National parks, Lake Bunyonyi and many more that attract a number of travelers to Uganda each year which offers remarkable experience.
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Safari Planning Tips For Busy Moms Touring Uganda
Ahhh, celebrating or partying during your holidays!…… The Thanksgiving turkey comes out of the oven golden brown, with an enticing aroma that fills the entire house. All the party members are in their best moods, relaxing in pristine condition and not a single piece in the set is missing on your Uganda Safari! The family is gathered for holiday pictures, the children are poised perfectly; hands to themselves, not a hair out of place and their smiles are shining brightly for the camera. Then just as the photographer is about to capture the shot… you wake up!
Let’s be realistic ladies
Without proper planning, the holidays are anything but a holiday. Just look at the list of things that need to be done: Shopping, cooking, cleaning, decorating, sending holiday mail, the list goes on and on.
Let me clue you all in on a few key questions that you should ask yourself in order to have a holiday season free of stress and worry, and instead filled with fun and laughter:
What types of holiday celebrations do you want?
For example: Do you want to have an immediate family vacation only holiday affair or an extravaganza including immediate and extended family plus a few friends? Once you’ve thought everything through and decided on the type of holiday gathering you would like, you can then start making your plans.
In Uganda, there are various holiday types that include gorilla safaris, game viewing trips – best adventures for young children, cultural tours, chimpanzee watching and zoo tours at the Uganda Wildlife Education Center in Entebbe, one of the best towns to stay in Uganda duding your holiday!
If you are ready to get a head start on organizing yourself, your family and your holiday check lists, then keep reading:
Holiday Cards:
Start early! I use a holiday card list that I derive from saving names and addresses from holiday cards my family has received in past years. I created a simple, computerized list that is easy to edit and print onto address labels. Be sure to stock up on stamps so that when you have your cards signed, stuffed and addressed you can affix a stamp to them and make one, simple trip to the Post Office.
Holiday Gifts:
There’s nothing like getting a HUGE credit card bill in the mail at the start of the New Year. Many of us tend to want to be generous when shopping for holiday gifts. While your generosity will be appreciated at gift giving time, keep in mind that it is very easy to succumb to “impulse buying” and go all out on your holiday shopping. While your intentions may be good, your pocketbook may be singing a different song. Set a budget and stick to it – your bank account will thank you for it after the start of the New Year.
Wrap it up:
Wrap your gifts and place nametags on them immediately after you bring them home, then store the gifts in a secure spot. This will cut down on those late night wrapping sessions that I am sure we ALL have experienced a few times, if not every year.
Baking & cooking:
If you will be cooking during the holidays, it is important to plan your meals ahead of time. Be sure to stock up ahead of time on all the necessary non-perishable baking ingredients such as flour, sugar and spices. Create a list of your holiday menus and a list of the ingredients you will need to prepare each of those meals. Also, try to think of a few dishes that can be prepared ahead of time and then frozen as an extra timesaving measure
Delegate:
This is one of my favorite tips. Be sure to enlist the help of your family or friends. Sit down and discuss what needs to be done then ask for volunteers. If no hands are raised, simply assign small tasks to each of them. Whether it is arranging for a babysitter so that you can escape for a child free day of shopping, passing the shopping list onto another family member or friend so that they can pick up the items for you, or letting the children decorate your home. Be sure to get the whole family involved in the holiday preparations so that you will not be overwhelmed.
Enjoy:
Whatever you decide to do, remember to relax and enjoy yourself. You and your family will have much fonder memories of this holiday season if you are not spending it pulling your hair out.
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