Uganda Safaris - gorilla trekking and more
WHERE TO GO WHILE ON A SAFARI IN UGANDA ?
Uganda is a wonderful land bordering Kenya and Tanzania that has quite a number of attractions including Mountain Gorillas – the last of their kind, Chimpanzees, prolific bird-life, Antelopes, Lions, Cheetahs and numerous other wildlife species. Among the parks that can be visited are Queen Elizabeth Game Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Semliki National Park, Kibale Forest Game Park and Murchison Falls National Park.
WHICH SAFARI COMPANY OR TOUR OPERATOR ?
There are many safari companies in Uganda, among the best Uganda safari tour operators. Most of the companies can take you to both Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda for gorilla trekking and wildlife tours. Its important to find out whether a tour operator belongs to a certain professional association such as Association of Uganda Tour Operators, Tourism Uganda, Africa Tour Operators etc.
WHY VISIT UGANDA?
So, why have a Uganda Safari ? What makes Uganda good for a safari is , gorilla trekking is best done here , the highest population 450 mountain gorillas, climb the Rwenzori mountains, see the tree climbing lions in Africa, enjoy white water rafting on the Nile, 1000 bird species makes it a top birding destination in Africa.
You will visit the superb Murchison falls , engage in sightseeing of Uganda’s savanna, wildlife, lakes and rivers. Uganda is one of the most hospitable countries in the world thus making it the best cultural safari destination in Africa.
What makes Uganda special is that its a less crowded safari destination as compared to the neighboring Tanzania and Kenya. This is a perfect way to spy on the safari animals.
Uganda is a better country for a safari vs Kenya or Tanzania because it not only has the big five animals, it has the big six. Besides the elephant, leopard, lion, buffalo and Rhino, it has the mountain gorillas that you cannot find in Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana or South Africa.
mountain gorilla, top activity for uganda safaris
Besides the ordinary safari, you will be able to engage in fishing adventures and catch 150kg Nilo-perch which is hard to catch elsewhere in the world. You will see the snow covered Rwenzori mountains that standing over most of Western Uganda, its rain forests plus the jungles not seen in any other country within East African.
BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK
Home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a prime destination for gorilla trekking. It offers a unique and unforgettable experience of observing these majestic primates in their natural habitat.
QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK
This park is known for its diverse ecosystems, including savannah, forests, and wetlands. It’s home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, and an incredible number of bird species. The boat safari along the Kazinga Channel is a popular activity.
MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK
Named after the powerful Murchison Falls on the Nile River, this park is known for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy game drives, boat safaris, and hikes to the top of the falls.
KIDEPO VALLEY NATIONAL PARK
Located in the remote northeastern corner of Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Park is known for its untouched wilderness and incredible scenery. It’s home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and cheetahs.
LAKE MBURO NATIONAL PARK:
A smaller park compared to others in Uganda, Lake Mburo is known for its lakes, rolling hills, and acacia woodlands. It’s an excellent place for game drives, boat safaris, and horseback riding.
KIBALE NATIONAL PARK:
Famous for its high population of chimpanzees, Kibale National Park is a primate lover’s paradise. Visitors can go chimpanzee trekking or participate in guided forest walks to observe other primates and diverse bird species.
RWENZORI MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK:
Known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” this park is home to the Rwenzori mountain range with stunning landscapes, glaciers, and diverse flora and fauna. Treks to Margherita Peak provide a challenging adventure for mountaineers.
MGAHINGA GORILLA NATIONAL PARK:
Located in the Virunga Mountains, this park offers another opportunity for gorilla trekking. It’s also a habitat for the rare golden monkeys and provides stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes.