When it comes to African safaris, Uganda is that one pristine destination not to miss out in your travel plan. This magical landlocked country straddles the Equator and suitably lies in East Africa. Despite its relatively small size it boasts of its remarkably interesting attractions that are condensed into its borders. It offers a lot of thrilling wildlife experiences and not to forget the warm tropical kind of climate that makes travel easier throughout the year. Besides, it comes with lush green landscape making it absolutely one of the best destinations to spend a holiday while 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 rainforest. Uganda is a home to half of the total population of mountain gorillas that still thrive on earth today making it ultimately one of the most-sought after gorilla watching destinations in the world. To catch a glimpse at these unique wildlife species, you must 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 daypack, insect repellent, camera with no flashlight, long sleeved shirt/t-shirt, trousers, sunscreen, hat, gardening gloves and others.
Elsewhere, 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 in the savanna national parks and wildlife reserves. Since the 1950s, traditional safaris are the main factors that bring most tourists to Africa. If your plan is to experience an authentic big game safari on the African continent, Uganda-the pearl of Africa has you covered.
Like other destinations in East Africa, Uganda offers lucrative opportunities to travelers interested in big game viewing adventures. A bonus of going on a Uganda safari is that unlike is counterparts like Kenya and Tanzania Uganda offers game viewing in a very sustainable manner. You will watch the wildlife in smaller groups given that its parks are less visited.
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.
Bird Watching
Uganda is a birders paradise! It is 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. With many grasslands, wetlands, woodlands, lakes and rivers, there are plenty of places to go birding while in Uganda. 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 see 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. There are several mountains where you can go hiking while in Uganda. These include the Rwenzori Mountains located along the borders of Uganda with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mount Elgon in Eastern Uganda, the Virunga Volcanoes that include Mgahinga, Sabinyo and Muhavura etc.
To have the best thrilling and life changing adventures, the Rwenzori Mountain ranges should be a must for you to explore. This predominantly old quartzite mountain offers a challenging experience to hikers. Many hikers rate the Rwenzoris to be the most challenging of all African mountains. A central circuit trail leads you to the Magherita Peak its highest point. You will marvel at its glacial peaks that are visible miles away as one travels in Western Uganda.
Other significant places to consider for amazing hiking or mountaineering adventures include Mount Elgon, located in Eastern Uganda where you will also see the scenic Sipi waterfalls.
White water rafting
If you are interested in adrenaline adventure experiences then a visit to Jinja in Eastern Uganda is a must! The bonus will also be visiting the source of the Nile at Jinja, a journey that is worth it. While in Jinja, you can go for either a half day or a full day white water rafting along the mighty River Nile. This is one amazing experience that you need not to miss out given that it takes you through the challenging rapids rewarding you with unforgettable experiences.
Others things to do in Jinja include cultural encounters, bungee jumping, jet boating, sport fishing, 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. Lots of adventures await you in the 10 Uganda National Parks as well as game reserves. Other adventures that you should not miss include chimpanzee tracking, gorilla habituation experience, golden monkey tracking, abseiling among others.