Uganda’s Extraordinary Wildlife Experience: A Journey into the Heart of the Pearl
Introduction: Uganda, the enchanting “Pearl of Africa,” is a hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts seeking unforgettable experiences. With its diverse landscapes, lush forests, and abundant biodiversity, Uganda offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of African wildlife. Join us on a virtual expedition as we explore the captivating wildlife experiences that await in Uganda’s national parks and protected areas.
Gorilla Trekking: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter Embark on an awe-inspiring adventure to meet the endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Trek through dense forests, guided by experienced trackers, and come face to face with these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Witness their captivating behaviors, from playful juveniles to protective silverbacks, and learn about the conservation efforts aimed at preserving this remarkable species.
Chimpanzee Tracking: Dancing with our Closest Relatives Delve into the lush jungles of Kibale Forest National Park and Budongo Forest Reserve to track the lively chimpanzees. Observe their curious antics, listen to their vocalizations, and witness their social interactions up close. Discover the similarities between humans and our closest relatives, gaining a deeper understanding of the importance of primate conservation.
Game Drives in National Parks: Embark on thrilling game drives in Uganda’s renowned national parks, including Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park. Spot a rich array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. Experience the excitement of witnessing predators on the hunt or the gentle grazing of herbivores against the backdrop of stunning African landscapes.
Birding Paradise: A Symphony of Feathers Uganda’s diverse habitats make it a haven for birdwatchers. With over 1,000 bird species, including rare endemics and migratory visitors, the country offers unparalleled birding opportunities. Explore the prolific wetlands, such as Mabamba Bay and Queen Elizabeth National Park, and witness the vibrant colors of shoebills, African fish eagles, and countless other avian species. Let the melodious songs and graceful flights of these feathered wonders captivate your senses.
Boat Safaris and Wetland Exploration: Embark on a serene boat safari along Uganda’s waterways, such as the Kazinga Channel or the Nile River in Murchison Falls National Park. Observe hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of birdlife congregating along the riverbanks. Explore the enchanting wetlands of Uganda, including the Ssese Islands and Lake Bunyonyi, where you can encounter unique flora and fauna while appreciating the significance of wetland conservation.
Conclusion: Uganda’s wildlife experiences offer a remarkable journey into the heart of Africa’s natural wonders. From intimate encounters with gorillas and chimpanzees to thrilling game drives and birdwatching adventures, this captivating country leaves a lasting impression on every wildlife enthusiast. As you explore Uganda’s national parks and protected areas, remember the importance of responsible tourism and conservation efforts to safeguard the country’s extraordinary biodiversity. Let the memories of these wildlife encounters inspire you to cherish and protect the natural treasures of Uganda for generations to come.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter: Visit Gorillas of Uganda
Introduction: Embarking on a journey to encounter gorillas in their natural habitat is an extraordinary experience that stays etched in the memory forever. Uganda, known as the “Pearl of Africa,” offers a unique opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring mountain gorillas up close. In this blog, we will guide you through the thrilling adventure of gorilla trekking in Uganda, providing insights into the process, the magnificent gorillas themselves, and the importance of responsible tourism in their conservation.
The Gorilla Trekking Experience: Prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you embark on a gorilla trekking expedition in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Discover the thrill of traversing dense forests, ascending steep slopes, and immersing yourself in the natural habitat of these gentle giants. Learn about the guidelines and regulations set in place to ensure the safety and well-being of both visitors and gorillas during these treks.
Meeting the Mountain Gorillas: As you finally come face to face with a family of mountain gorillas, a sense of wonder and connection envelops you. Observe their immense strength, gentle demeanor, and intricate social interactions. Witness the playful antics of the young gorillas and the nurturing behaviors of the mothers. Capture the precious moments with your camera, but don’t forget to savor the experience and connect with these magnificent creatures on a deeper level.
Conservation Efforts and Impact: Gorilla trekking in Uganda plays a vital role in the conservation of mountain gorillas. Explore the efforts undertaken by national parks, local communities, and conservation organizations to protect these endangered species. Learn how the revenue generated from gorilla permits contributes to conservation initiatives, community development, and the preservation of their natural habitat. Understand the importance of sustainable tourism practices and responsible behavior to ensure the long-term survival of these magnificent creatures.
Cultural Encounters: A visit to the gorillas in Uganda offers more than just a wildlife experience. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the local communities living near the gorilla habitats. Engage in cultural encounters, witness traditional dances, and interact with the warm and welcoming locals. Discover the harmonious coexistence between humans and gorillas and gain a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of these majestic creatures.
Preparing for the Adventure: Before embarking on your gorilla trekking adventure, proper preparation is essential. From obtaining permits and arranging transportation to packing the right gear and understanding the physical demands of the trek, we provide you with practical tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Learn about the best time to visit, weather conditions, and accommodations available near the national parks.
Conclusion: Visiting the gorillas in Uganda is a life-changing experience that immerses you in the natural wonders of our planet. It is an opportunity to witness the resilience and beauty of these incredible creatures while contributing to their conservation. As you venture into the heart of Uganda’s forests and encounter the mountain gorillas, let their presence remind you of the importance of preserving our natural heritage for future generations. Cherish the memories and carry the spirit of the gorillas with you, becoming an ambassador for their conservation wherever you go.
Introduction: Uganda, nestled in the heart of East Africa, is a captivating country renowned for its diverse and abundant wildlife. Blessed with lush landscapes, dense forests, expansive savannahs, and shimmering lakes, Uganda is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. From majestic mammals to colorful avian species and elusive primates, the country’s incredible biodiversity never fails to astound visitors. Join us on a virtual journey as we delve into Uganda’s captivating wildlife and the unique conservation efforts aimed at preserving its natural heritage.
Discovering the Big Game: Uganda’s savannahs and national parks offer thrilling encounters with Africa’s iconic “Big Five” game animals. Embark on an adventurous safari through Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, or Kidepo Valley National Park, where you can spot majestic elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. Learn about the fascinating behaviors and conservation challenges faced by these magnificent creatures.
Primate Paradise: Uganda is often referred to as the “Primate Capital of the World” due to its incredible primate diversity. The lush forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are home to the endangered mountain gorillas, offering a rare opportunity for gorilla trekking. Get a glimpse of playful chimpanzees swinging through the trees in
or encounter the charming golden monkeys in Mgahinga. Explore the efforts dedicated to the conservation of these captivating primates.
Avian Delights: Uganda boasts over 1,000 avian species, making it a bird lover’s paradise. Set your sights on the striking shoebill stork in the wetlands of Mabamba Bay or the regal African fish eagle soaring over Lake Victoria. Discover the vibrant colors of the Great Blue Turaco or the rare and elusive African green broadbill. Uncover the diverse birding hotspots across the country and learn about the important role of bird conservation in Uganda.
Wetland Wonders: Uganda’s wetlands offer a haven for a variety of wildlife, playing a crucial role in their survival. Explore the intricate network of swamps, lakes, and rivers, such as the enchanting Ssese Islands and the renowned Queen Elizabeth National Park wetlands. Witness the graceful movements of hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species as they thrive in these vital ecosystems. Understand the significance of wetland conservation and the efforts to protect these fragile habitats.
Community-Based Conservation: Uganda’s wildlife conservation efforts extend beyond protected areas. Discover the inspiring stories of community-based conservation initiatives, where local communities actively participate in safeguarding their natural resources. Learn about projects promoting sustainable tourism, empowering local communities, and raising awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation. Explore the coexistence between humans and wildlife, showcasing the positive impact of community involvement.
Conclusion: Uganda’s wildlife is a true marvel, offering an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. From the untamed savannahs to the dense forests, the country’s incredible biodiversity and unique conservation efforts make it a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts. As we journey through Uganda’s wilderness, let us embrace the beauty of this African gem and recognize the importance of protecting its precious wildlife for generations to come.
How to get to Bwindi National Park; Bwindi is found in southwestern Uganda about 530km from the capital, Kampala. The main entry point into the county is Entebbe International Airport which is about 46km from kampala.
Most visitors to Bwindi are interested in Gorilla expeditions and so will go to those areas that are known to have gorillas. A 3 day gorilla safari in Uganda is the most desired trip in Uganda.
By air, visitors can fly from Entebbe or Kajjansi Airfield to the airstrip at Kisoro. Those going to Buhoma can charter planes to Kayonza Airstrip.
The park can be reached from several directions by road. It can be reached from Queen Elizabeth national Park (Mweya) which is about 160km from Bwindi and can be a 3hour ride.
It can also be reached by road from to Kampala to Kabale through Kanugu to Buhoma. This is a tarmac highway route of about 414km and can take about 5-6hours.
Still from Kampala you could tale the Kampala-Ntugamo-Rukungiri-Kahihi-Buhoma roué of about 390km of tarmac and 82km of murram roads.
There is also the Kampala-Kabale-Ruhija-Buhoma 95km route, and the Kampala-Kabale-Nkuringo 80km route.
You could also take a bus from Kampala to Butogota . From Butogota, you can hire a taxi to take you to Buhoma. There is no public transport to Nkuringo but vehicles can be hired from Kisoro.
You can hire a tour operator or agency to make all necessary travel arrangements for your trip. Airline and Ticket prices.
Information on airlines and ticket prices for flights to Uganda can be found on Skyscanner for those looking for flights to multiple destinations, and also on Expedia. Passport, visa and other entry requirements.
Information on Passport, Visa and other travel requirements can be got from tours operators.
There is a range of accommodation for both upmarket and budget visitors. It is advisable to book in advance.
To go gorilla trekking in Bwindi, you need a permit. Sometimes these permits need to be booked about 3 months in advance. Gorilla trekking permits are $500 in Uganda. Gorilla rules:
To protect both gorillas and visitors the following rules must be adhered to;
No one with a communicable disease such as flu or diarrhoea is allowed to visit the gorillas
Leave a distance of about 5m between you and the gorillas. If they approach , you move back.
Flash photography is strictly forbidden
Do not eat or smoke within 200m of the gorillas
If you need to sneeze or cough, turn away from the gorillas and cover your nose and mouth
Bury all human faeces in a hole dug atleast 30cm( 1 ft) deep. And ensure that it is filled properly
All litter must be removed from the park for disposal
Do not spit on vegetation or soil within the park
No person under 15 years of age is allowed to track gorillas
When with gorillas avoid making loud noises or sudden movements
Contact/viewing time with gorillas is strictly limited to one hour
Queen Elizabeth National Park which was founded in 1952 is the most popular in Uganda covering over 1978 kilometers squared. Located in Western Uganda, the National park is about 250 miles from the capital city of Uganda Kampala. Best known for the tree-climbing lions, leopards, and a large number of hippos, it has become a favorite for many tourists.
The National park has five habitats that make up the beautiful ecosystem and beautiful scenery that is found in Queen Elizabeth National Park. These have been divided into five that is swampy vegetation, forests, Acacia woodland, Lake Shore, and the savannah grasslands. When it comes to animals, there is no shortage of what you should expect when it comes to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
You get to see hippos, leopards, lions, elephants, kobs, buffalos, and crocodiles among others. Queen Elizabeth National Park is surrounded by many things that will keep you on your toes that is the Rift valley escarpment to the East, the Maramagambo forest filled with a variety of primates, the swamps and Lakes found in the area, and the Kazinga channel with both Lake Albert and Lake George, various hills and the Acacia trees all have attractions that you should check out while on safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Park entry fees to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Non-foreign residents Adults $40
Children $20
EAC citizens Adults 20,000shs
Children 5000shs
Foreign residents Adults $30
Children $10
How to get to Queen Elizabeth National Park
You can use either road or air transport to get to Queen Elizabeth National Park. When using road transport, there are two routes that you can and one is from Kampala through Mbarara and then to the National Park. This is like 250 miles or more and it will take you to the Eastern side of the National Park. The second route will take you from Kampala through Fort Portal and then you head north towards the National Park. Tourists using air transport can get direct flights from Kajjansi airfield and the Entebbe International Airport. Domestic flights can easily be planned and scheduled and the airstrips around the Park where you can land include Ishasha, Kasese, and Mweya. Flights will take you about an hour or two from Kampala to the National park.
Sectors in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is divided into different sections and these make up the different ecosystem that is experienced within the National Park. The different sections that are found within Queen Elizabeth National Park include:
Ishasha sector & Tree Climbing Lions
Ishasha is found in the south-western part of the National Park 2 hours away from the Mweya peninsular. It is one of the most-visited parts of Queen Elizabeth best known for the climbing lions that are found in the area. Queen Elizabeth National Park has a total of about 50 climbing lions but the number can either increase or decrease due to different factors.
The lions can be seen lazily resting in the trees after hunting or when they are looking out for their prey. Some of the factors affecting the lions are the increasing number of people living around the National park, killing each other especially the dominant male, and natural causes. There was an incident that was recorded in 2018 where about 11 lions were found dead and the cause was poisoning and measures have been put in place to protect these climbing lions.
No one knows the real reason as to why the lions climb the trees although there are theories that say that it’s the best way for them to spot their prey all you need to know is that they always seem to be extremely comfortable while hanging in the tress. The giant cats can be seen all year round and some other animals that you might see depending on your luck include antelopes, buffalos, and elephants.
Kyambura Gorge
Kyambura Gorge covering the North-eastern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to a wide range of animals and bird species. Also known as the valley of apes, Kyambura pronounced as ‘chambura’ acts as a buffer between humans and the National Park. There are so many reasons why you should visit the Kyambura gorge and these are the numerous activities that are carried out here some of these activities include:
Chimpanzee trekking
The Kyambura gorge is filled with thick vegetation, and swamps and covers over 10 square kilometers making it a perfect home for the chimpanzees. Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura is either done in the morning or late afternoons and it will take you about 1 to 2 hours walk to get to the chimpanzees. Do not worry about the chimpanzees because they are used to human presence but you need to follow the rules and regulations given by the tour guides while chimp tracking. Chimpanzees in QENP are not all that aggressive because they have been habituated but some precautions need to be taken when chimpanzee tracking and these include:
• Do not use a flash when taking photos
• Always follow the tour guide
• Do not feed the animals
• Keep a distance between you and the primates
• Do not go chimp tracking if you are sick
• Do not approach the animals
Guided nature walks
Guided nature walks are one of the best ways of exploring the Kyambura gorge. There are clearly marked routes that you will use and some of the exciting things that you get to see while on the walks include chimpanzees, vervet monkeys, white and black Columbus monkeys, baboons, and red-tailed monkeys. It is a bird haven and has numerous bird species that you can see while on your nature walks.
The Kazinga channel
Connecting two Lakes that is Lake George and Lake Edward, the Kazinga channel runs for 32 kilometers. Lake George is found on the Eastern part of the Kazinga channel and when it overflows, the excess water goes through the Kazinga channel and flows into Lake Edward which is on the Western side of the channel.
The Kazinga channel is divided into two parts that are North Kazinga and Kasenyi. Enjoy a boat cruise along the channel can easily be arranged to start at 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm, and 5:00 pm for the different groups of tourists. Kazinga channel attracts lots of animals to its banks, especially during the dry season and some of the animals include lions, buffalos, elephants, kobs, hippos, and crocodiles among others. It is also home to different bird species that are best viewed during the wet season.
Mweya Peninsular
Mweya peninsular is located near the Kazinga channel in the Northern part. This is where most of the activities that are carried out in Queen Elizabeth National Park take place. It is just 20 kilometers away from the main Kasese road as you head to Mbarara. Mweya peninsular was previously a human settlement but it was later on in 1952 gazetted as a protected area.
There are over 400 settlements in the peninsular and these have so far lived around the area for a long time. Some of the activities that you can carry out while in Mweya peninsular include guided nature walks and mongoose tracking. Both activities can easily be carried out but with the help of a tour guide and for mongoose tracking, the activity takes about 3 hours and you learn how to track them and learn about their ways of life, get to see numerous bird species and a few animals.
Mweya peninsular is also known for the luxurious Mweya safari lodge which is found in the Northern part of the Peninsular. The lodge has the best view of Lake Edward and is one of the best lodges in the National Park. There are a few rules that you need to follow while in the Mweya peninsular and these are:
• Follow the instructions of the tour guide
• Do not make a lot of noise
• Do not eat while carrion out the different park activities
• Do not get close to the animals
The Katwe Crater Lake
Katwe Crater Lakes are found in the Mweya Peninsular and although at the moment they are extinct there is a distinct smell in form of sulphur that is around the crater Lakes. There are three craters and these are the Ndali-Kasenda crater, the Kyemengo crater which is the most beautiful, and the Bunyaraguru crater along the Kichwamba escarpment. Enjoy a drive around the Crater Lake and get clear views of the Kazinga channel, the hot springs, Lake Kitagata, Rwenzori Mountains, and the Great Rift Valley.
Maramagambo forest
Maramagambo forest is found in the central part of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The main attractions in the Maramagambo forest include the Kichwamba escarpment, primates like the black and white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys and baboons, Lake Edward, the bat caves, crater Lakes, bush babies, and chimpanzees.
The bat caves are something that you should check out but be aware of the pythons that live within the caves. The forest is good for guided nature walks, birding and hiking. It might take you about 2 hours to trek around the forest or more depending on the weather and the speed being used.
Kasenyi Plains
Kasenyi is located in the North-eastern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park and is open savannah grasslands where most of the animals can easily be spotted. Kasenyi is found near Lake George and compared to other grasslands found in the National Park, the Kasenyi plains have the largest number of animal species in the country and they are also home to several bird species.
Things to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park
There are several activities that are carried out in QENP and these include the following
Cultural tours
Enjoy a cultural tour around Lake Katwe where many locals can be seen locally mining salts. There are performances of songs and dances from the locals as a welcoming sign for tourists. You also get to experience the rich culture of the Banyaruguru and Toro people who live around the National Park.
Photo safaris
These are best taken from the crater side of the Equator. It has great views of the Queen’s pavilion which was set up in 1954. It was later renovated in 2007 and is one of the places that you should check out while in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Game drives
Normally carried out in the dry season, game drives around the National Park will give you a chance to see various animals and some of these include antelopes, lions, hippos, leopards, elephants, kobs, and giraffes among others.
Birding
This is mainly done during the wet season and there are numerous birds that can be seen in their natural habitats. Look out for the migratory birds as well and some of the bird species you should look out for include the Shoebill and African fish eagle among others.
Nature walks
Nature walks around the National Park are only carried out when you are in the presence of a tour guide.
Boat cruises
Boat cruises are carried out along the Kazinga channel and these help in exploring the other side of the National Park with water animals like buffalos and hippos. T is a good chance to see other animals, especially during the dry season since they converge around the channel for water.
Chimp tracking
Chimp tracking is mainly done in the Maramagambo forest. Best carried out during the dry season, other primates you get to see while tracking chimps include red-tailed monkeys, baboons, vervet monkeys, and, black colobus monkeys.
Balloon rides
Balloon rides are offered at an extra cost and are done very early in the morning. They normally follow the weather and therefore if the weather is bad, they get cancelled. The rides offer tourists a great aerial view of the animals and flora found in the National Park.
Wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park
The National Park has a wide range of wildlife that lives in the different habitats within the National Park. Wildlife viewing can be done in the different parts of the National Park and each section has something that you should look out for. If you are looking for leopards and the Giant Forest hog, the best place is the channel track which is found on the Kazinga channel and is also known as the leopard loop.
A boat ride along the Kazinga channel will give you a clear view of the hippos and other water animals. The Mweya peninsular is the most visited part of the Queen Elizabeth National Park because it has large herds of wildlife. The best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry season which is from January to February and June to August.
Animals in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park has over 95 different animal species which makes it the National Park with the largest number of animals in Uganda. It is famously known for a large number of hippos which amounts to over 5000. Some of the animals that are found in the Queen Elizabeth National Park include lions, Hyenas, Hippos, Leopards, Elephants, Forest hogs, Kob (commonly known as the Ugandan Kob), Forest hogs, baboons, monkeys like the vervet monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys and the red-tailed monkeys, Bush babies, and many more others.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to thousands of animals that live in different habitats in the different parts of the National Park. The Park is best known for having some of the best games around the world and every tourist gets to see different types of animals including the big five.
• The Buffalos, queen Elizabeth National Park has over 10000 buffalos that can be seen walking around the Park in herds. This so far is the highest number of buffalos recorded in the East African region and the reason why they travel in groups is to protect each other from hunters and carnivores like lions and leopards.
• Elephants, the African elephants that are found in Queen Elizabeth National Park are unique in their own way and most people say that if you look closely at their ears, there is a formation of the African continent. There are about 2500 recorded elephants in Queen Elizabeth national park that can be seen along the Kazinga channel and other parts of the Park.
• Hippos, the National Park has about 5000 hippos that can be seen while taking a boat cruise along the Kazinga channel. You can as well view them from a game drive but the bruise cruise will give you a more detailed view of the hippos.
Birds in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is in the 6th position in the whole world when it comes to having a large number of bird species and it is in the 2nd position in Africa after the Virunga National park. There are about 612 recorded bird species in the Park with the migratory birds coming in the months of November to April. Some of the bird species are migratory whereas others are endemic to the National park and these can be best seen during the wet season. There are different habitats from where you can view the birds and these include the following:
• Katuguru Bridge area, is filled with papyrus and is found along the Kazinga channel. Some of the bird species found here include the pied Kingfisher, Lesser swamp swabler, white-winged greater winged warbler, papyrus gonolek, and the Malachite kingfisher.
• Ishasha sector, although best known for the climbing lions, it is also a birding spot, and bird species here include the African crowned eagle, grey kestrel, African shoebill, Cisticola, African green pigeon, and the African wattled plover.
• Maramagambo forest, bird species here include the African emerald cuckoo, African finfoot, red-throated wryneck, African mustached warbler, blue-shouldered Robin Robin-chat, the and brown Illadopsis among others.
• Kasenyi Area, bird species found in the Kasenyi area include the palm but culture, black-bellied bustard, croaking Cisticola, white-tailed lark, hooded vulture, long-crested and brown brown-backed Robin among others.
• Mweya peninsular, found next to the Kazinga channel, bird species found here include the grey-headed Kingfisher, Nubian woodpecker, swamp nightjar, swift’s swallows, and little bee-eater.
• Lake Kikorongo has bird species which include the African Jacana, scared Ibis, shoebill, knob-billed duck, and saddle-billed stork among others.
When to visit Queen Elizabeth National park
The best time to visit the Queen Elizabeth National park depends on the seasons and these keep on changing. Due to its closeness to the Equator, the National Park has two seasons that is the wet season and the dry season. The dry season is experienced in two phases that is from January to February and then from June to September.
The dry season is considered to be the best time because of the large numbers of animals that can be seen converging along the waterholes. The wet season is also a good time to visit the National Park, especially for tourists who love birding. The wet season is experienced from August to November and from February to May.
The dry season is also known as the peak season and this is because of the many tourist that can be seen during this period. All costs during the peak season are doubled and tourists are advised to book early. The wet season also known as the wet season receives few tourists and the best time for anyone who doesn’t like crowds and on a budget.
All activities can be carried out throughout the year but the best time for Game drives, nature walks, hiking and primate tracking are best done during the dry season. You will however be able to also see the numerous animals during the wet season and carry out other activities.
Where to stay in Queen Elizabeth National Park
There are several places where you can stay while on a safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park and these are categorized into three that is budget, mid-range, and luxurious accommodation facilities. The best accommodation depends on your budget but just know that there are facilities that can fit in every budget both within and around Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Budget accommodation facilities: some of the budget facilities around the Park include Samba safari camp, Pumba safari camp in Kyambura, Mweya hostel and the Kazinga channel resort among others.
Mid-range accommodation facilities: these include the buffalo lodge, Engiri safari lodge, Enganzi game lodge, Ihamba lodge and Kingfisher lodge in Kichwamba among others.
Luxury accommodation facilities include Kyambura game lodge, Jacana safari lodge, Mweya safari lodge, Ishasha wilderness lodge, Kyambura gorge lodge and the Hippo safari lodge among others.
What to bring and wear while on a safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Put on neutral colors
• Put on long-sleeved shirts and trousers
• Bring anti-malarial drugs with you because of the many mosquitoes in the Park
• Wide brimmed hats
• Sunscreen
• Hiking boots
Queen Elizabeth National Park safety tips
Queen Elizabeth national Park is an open grassland where animals are not confined to one place and therefore they move from one place to the next. They basically own the National Park and you are supposed to give them a lee way when you find them. There are many safety precautions that you can follow while in QENP and below is a list of some of the rules that will ensure both your safety and the safety of the wildlife.
• Do not walk in the park alone
• Do not approach the animals even when they are close to you
• Carry a first aid kit with you in case of any accidents
• Do not alight your vehicle during the game drives
• Make sure that you do not make a lot of noise for example do not honk, turn off your phone and radios
• For those that love camping, keep your food away from the animals and turn out the fire after cooking
• Remember that the animals have a right of way so do not over speed
• Avoid hippos at all costs especially if they are in water.
Explore the queen Elizabeth National park while on a safari to Uganda and get the best time of your life with all that the Park has to offer.
Kibale National Park.
Kibale Forest Safari Uganda could easily be called the primate capital of the world. It is a home to a host of wildlife although mostly famous for it 13 species of primates including chimpanzees. Kibale national Park lies close to the tranquil Ndali-Kasenda crater area and is a half a day’s drive from Queen Elizabeth National Park, Rwenzori mountains, and Semiliki National Park and the Toro-Semiliki national Reserve Wildlife Chimpanzees might be the main attraction in the park but there are twelve other types of primates that have been recorded in this
park. Some of these include: the black and white colobus, red-tailed monkey, blue monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabey, red-tailed monkey, olive baboon, bush baby and potto.Although rarely seen there are other mammals living in the park these include; forest elephant, buffalo, leopard, bush pig, and duiker. You could also catch sight of reptiles and amphibians and a colourful array of butterflies.
Kibale National Park has an impressive number of bird species. It has a record of about 325 bird species some of which are; the black-capped apalis, blue-headed sunbird, collared apalis, purple- breasted sunbird and many others. Game viewing time
Game viewing is good all year round in Kibale National Park, however its best in the dry seasons of November to February, and June to September. Chimpanzee trekking is best during these months.
Although some of the trails are very difficult to traverse during the rainy season, the park is open all year round and you can still track chimpanzees. You can also view other wild animals although they are harder to see because of the thick vegetation. What to do in Kibale national park
There are quite a number of fun activities to do in Kibale National park. There are forest hikes usually restricted to the dry season, there is a cultural heritage and nature trail- a 2-6 day trail through the forest and you can of course go chimpanzee trekking. You can also visit the Bigodi Wetland sanctuary and the Sebitoli Forest camp. There are children’s activities such as pond dipping, photography and batik making. So people who travel with their children do not have to worry about the children getting bored while the adults go of tracking chimpanzees.
The chimpanzee habituation experience gives you an opportunity to accompany Kibale’s researchers and habituators as they follow chimpanzees throughout their daily activities. This has been proven to get the chimpanzees used to human presence without interrupting their daily activities. Visitors get the chance to follow a chimpnazee’s day from about 6am in the morning till 7pm in the evening. Tracking chimpanzees in Kibale is definitely an experience all on its own and one of the best things to do on you safari tour in Uganda.
You need a permit for each day that you track mountain gorillas in Uganda. The Uganda wildlife authority is the one that issues these permits. But you need to secure one for yourself way ahead of your trip because they are in high demand. UWA has 96 gorilla permits available ach day. 8 of these are for Mgahinga gorilla national park, and the remaining 88 are for Bwindi impenetrable forest. So you see there is limited supply and high demand. The Peak seasons June, July, August, September, December, January, and February are especially a hard time to obtain gorilla permits. The permits are sold locally on cash basis at the UWA offices in Kampala. Sometimes the response from UWA is quite slow and can be frustrating, hence the need to buy one ahead of time.
How can I buy a permit early before I make my trip is they are only sold locally?
This is where experienced Ugandan safari companies like Insight safari holidays come into the picture. If you hire a safari company like us to manage and organise your Uganda safari and subsequently your gorilla trekking adventure, you can hire us to book and purchase a permit for you. For most safari companies it can be included in the wholesome quotation if they know you are interested in gorilla trekking or you can pay for it separately. It is possible to pay for a permit after you get here but the hustle and delays that you might encounter are not worth it. Safari companies in Uganda know the ins and outs of securing a gorilla permit and will do it quickly and efficiently. When you hire a safari company to book and organise your gorilla safari for you, there might be a few deviations from the plan every now and then, say you could get a permit that is valid for a day later than you wanted because the other were all booked out, but one thing is certain you will enjoy your gorilla experience hustle free. Securing a gorilla permit is only one step of organizing for your Uganda safari; there are other things like booking lodging, travel arrangements and so much more. But after you have secured your permit you can rest easy and organise your trip knowing you will get the experience you are hoping for
Departing from one of the four trailheads on the perimeters of the forest (Buhoma, Nkurongi, Rushaga, and Ruhija), you join a group of a maximum of eight other visitors for a guided trek into the forest in search of one of 11 habituated gorilla families.
Led by experienced, specialized Uganda Wildlife Authority guides, you will be introduced to the ecology of the forest and the changing landscape as you trek to the gorillas. Your guides are in communication with the team of trackers who will have been shadowing the gorillas since daybreak. The trackers direct your guides to bring you to the gorillas.
You should be prepared to walk through a challenging terrain of steep ridges and valleys, following animal paths through tangled undergrowth for about three hours to reach this point. Although sometimes contact can be made after 45 minutes and other times six hours.
Once contact has been made, you have up to one hour in which to observe the gorilla family from a distance of 7 meters. However, you should also be prepared for relaxed mums or inquisitive young to close this gap considerably! The trackers will remain in charge of the contact, telling you what to do in order to remain safe and enjoy the experience to the full.
The number of gorilla permits each day is strictly limited and so the peak season months of June to September and January and February sell out well in advance of travel. It is therefore recommended that you plan your visit about a year in advance, if not earlier. Gorilla permits are non-refundable, but if you trek and do not see a gorilla, the Uganda Wildlife Authority will refund 50% of the permit cost. This happens very rarely. Gorilla can be trekked also from Mgahinga National Park.
Located in Mweya, Mweya Safari Lodge is in a national park. The area’s natural beauty can be seen at Lake Edward and Kazinga Channel.
Mweya Safari Lodge
3.5-star lodge in a national park
At Mweya Safari Lodge, you can look forward to free English breakfast, a terrace, and a coffee shop/cafe. The onsite restaurant, Kazinga, features local and international cuisine. In addition to a garden and dry cleaning/laundry services, guests can connect to free WiFi in public areas.
You’ll also find perks like:
An outdoor pool with sun loungers and pool umbrellas
Free self parking
Concierge services, barbecue grills, and luggage storage
A 24-hour front desk, tour/ticket assistance, and meeting rooms
Room features
All 54 rooms boast comforts such as furnished patios and air conditioning, in addition to thoughtful touches like safes and minibars.
Other conveniences in all rooms include:
Rollaway/extra beds (surcharge) and free cribs/infant beds
Bathrooms with showers and free toiletries
32-inch TVs with cable channels
Ceiling fans, daily housekeeping, and desks
Languages
English
Cleaning and safety practices
Enhanced cleanliness measures
Disinfectant is used to clean the property
High-touch surfaces are cleaned and disinfected
Safety measures
Hand sanitizer provided
This information is provided by our partners.
Property amenities
Internet
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi and wired internet
Parking and transportation
Free self parking on site
Food and drink
Free English breakfast available daily
A bar/lounge
A coffee shop/cafe
A restaurant
Snack bar/deli
Restaurants on site
Kazinga
Things to do
Outdoor pool
Family friendly
Free crib
Laundry facilities
Outdoor pool
Rollaway/extra bed (surcharge)
Snack bar/deli
Conveniences
24-hour front desk
Laundry facilities
Luggage storage
Safe at front desk
Guest services
Concierge services
Daily housekeeping
Dry cleaning/laundry service
Multilingual staff
Tour and ticket assistance
Turndown service
Business services
Business center
Meeting rooms
Outdoors
Barbecue grill
Garden
In a national park
Picnic area
Pool loungers
Pool umbrellas
Terrace
Accessibility
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Chimpanzee Forest Guest House is located in Kibale. The area’s natural beauty can be seen at Kibale National Park and Lake Nyabikere
Chimpanzee Forest Guest House
Property highlights
Consider a stay at Chimpanzee Forest Guest House and take advantage of free breakfast (local cuisine), a terrace, and a garden. In addition to laundry facilities and a bar, guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.
