When it comes to safaris to Africa, Uganda is that one pristine destination not to miss out in your travel plan. This magical landlocked country straddles suitably in East Africa and boasts of its remarkably thrilling wildlife experiences and not to forget the warm tropical kind of climate. Besides, it comes with lush green landscape making it absolutely one of the best destinations to spend a holiday while on safari in Africa. If your plan is to visit Uganda, the following should be a must to do safari activities;
Gorilla trekking
Think about African safari and think not beyond magical encounters with a group of mountain gorillas in Uganda’s tropical rain forest. Uganda is a home to half the total population of mountain gorillas that still thrive on earth today making it ultimately one of the most sought after gorilla destinations in the world. To catch a glimpse at these unique wildlife species, you have to embark on 8-10 hours’ journey to the southwest to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. For successful gorilla safari in any of the two parks, a permit is a must to have and you need $600 to secure one in Uganda. Besides, make sure that you have packed appropriately starting with essentials first. In your packing list, the items not to leave out include waterproof hiking boots that are light weight, waterproof day pack, insect repellent, camera with no flashlight, long sleeved shirt/t-shirt, trousers, sunscreen, hat, gardening gloves and others.
Other incredible destinations that offer you a chance to get up-close to these rare creatures include Rwanda in Volcanoes National Park and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in the Virunga National Park. Note, gorilla trekking is limited to persons above 15 years and the fact that it takes you through a hike in the dense vegetation and steep slopes, you have to be physically well to make a complete hike which may last you about 4 to 8 hours. Once you find a group of these dramatic creatures, you have only an hour to strike your imaginations with them, explore their behaviors, body gestures and take as many photos as possible.
Game drives
What attracts most visitors to Africa is mainly to view the varied wildlife species and if your plan is to spend your holiday in this continent this holiday, Uganda-the pearl of Africa has you covered. Game drives in Uganda take you through its spectacular savanna grassland national parks for you to catch a glimpse at wide range of wildlife species such as elephants, buffaloes, leopards, lions plus the tree climbing lions, giraffes, antelopes, zebras, birds and many others. The notable parks for you to explore while on Uganda wildlife safari include Murchison Falls National Park in the northwest, Kidepo Valley National Park in the extreme northeast, Lake Mburo National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park and others.
Birding
Besides the popular gorilla and chimpanzee adventures, Uganda is also an ideal destination for you to spot out variety of bird species. Its numerous habitat host different avifaunal species that make this stunning country a home to over 1080 bird species. While on your trip, expect to sight both water and terrestrial bird species most of which can be spotted while you are on a boat trip or game drive. The notable birds to sight while on birding safari in Uganda include shoebills, the African green breasted pitta, Shelley’s crimsonwing, the great blue turaco, red winged francolin, red chested fluftail, African green broadbill, bar tailed trogon, short tailed warblers a mention but a few. For exciting birding experiences, the key sites to visit include Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, Semuliki Valley National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Mabamba swamp and many others.
Mountaineering/mountain climbing
Need to take part in the most breathtaking adventure? If yes, then Uganda has it all for you. To have the best of thrilling and life changing adventures, Rwenzori Mountain ranges should be a must for you to explore while on Uganda safari and you won’t regret in life. Other significant places to consider for amazing hiking or mountaineering adventures include Mount Elgon through the scenic Sipi waterfalls.
White water rafting
If you are interested in adrenaline adventure experiences then a visit to source of the Nile at Jinja is worth it. While here, white water rafting along the mighty River Nile is one amazing experience you need not to miss out. It takes you through the challenging rapids rewarding you with unforgettable experiences.
Others include cultural encounters, bungee jumping, jet boating, sport fishing, chimpanzee tracking and habituation experience, golden monkey tracking, horseback riding a mention but a few.
In conclusion, Uganda a paradise of its own when it comes to exciting safari activities. For any plans to visit this landlocked country, the above safari experiences should be a must for you to take part and you won’t be left in regrets.
