Uganda has a wide range of hotels used by tourists on Uganda safaris. Hotels in Uganda Kampala have different room types depending on the hotel. Some hotels in Uganda accommodate families in family rooms/ suites or cottages.

Are you travelling as a couple on your Uganda tour holiday? Kampala hotels and Uganda safari accommodation hotels/lodges have double rooms for couples. It can be a standard double room or a deluxe room depending on your Uganda safari tour budget.

For solo travellers, Uganda safari lodges and Uganda hotels have single rooms. In case you want to enjoy your safari in Uganda as friends, your accommodation in Kampala Uganda or at your Uganda safari lodge will be booked in a twin room or a triple room.

Depending on your budget, you can book your accommodation in standard/mid-range hotels in Uganda, upmarket/luxury hotels in Uganda Kampala or a budget hotel in Uganda.

Uganda Wins World Luxury Hotel Awards

On Saturday 12^th October, Uganda won big at the 13^th World Luxury Hotel Awards. The function was attended by many including the Ruparelia group in Uganda. The resorts under the Ruparelia Group scooped Continental and Regional awards at a gala event held on Saturday, at the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel in Finland.

• One of Uganda’s luxury hotels in Kampala Uganda, Speke Resort Munyonyo and Conference Centre was named Africa’s best Luxury Lakeside Resort in the 2019 World Luxury Hotel Awards. This award serves as recognition of sustained commitment to excellence in hoteliering and outstanding achievement in the international luxury hospitality industry. Numerous Uganda safari tour travellers especially those that want to enjoy their stay in Kampala prefer staying at this Speke Resort Hotel because of its good Trip Advisor reviews, hospitality and ambience. Tourists that enjoy their stay here normally move out for Kampala city tours, Jinja city tours, horse riding at the hotel, fishing spot Uganda safaris on Lake Victoria or even a short Uganda wildlife safari/ short Uganda safari like a 1 Day Lake Mburo National Park Uganda or a 1 Day Sipi falls safari Uganda.

World Luxury Hotel Awards certified the participation of the winner in the 2019 awards and congratulated them in this accomplishment, awarded the certificate to the winner of this category, signed by Tanique Echardt, Executive Manager and Brandon Lourens (Chairman and CEO) of the World Luxury Hotel Awards respectively.

• Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort, another Ruparelia property in Uganda was named Regional Winner, in East Africa under the category of Luxury Hotel and Conference Centre.
• Kabira Country Club located on Plot 63, Old Kira Road, Bukoto, won the top regional accolade in the Luxury Boutique Hotel Category.

Both, Speke Resort and Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort, have classy amenities on-site used by people interested in them during their stay there. These include an Olympic-size infinity swimming pool, a choice of luxury apartments, cottages, at least five restaurants, bars, a horse-riding centre, and a gymnasium.

Accommodation at these hotels in Uganda consists of over 335 rooms, including 104 executive suites and 59 presidential suites. They also have a chauffeur and self-drive watercraft available for hire with private yachts and boats also accommodated. Interested in having a wonderful honeymoon adventure holiday in Uganda, look no further, these are the right hotel destinations that will give you a full Uganda safari adventure honeymoon holiday.

The Ruparelia Group has more hotels, apartments, and cottages operating under the Speke brand including the Speke Apartments Wampewo and Kitante, Speke Hotel, Speke Resort Bujagali, Dolphin Suites, Forest Cottages and Bukoto Heights.

Speaking to the Ruparelia Group Founder and Chairman, Sudhir Ruparelia, he was pleased with the Awards. Mr Ruparelia attributed the win to quality service by his staff and world-class treatment of all guests at his properties during their stay. He thanked the guests who voted for his properties in the 13^th World Luxury Hotel Awards and for recognizing the services they deliver.

Other Winner in Uganda include;

• Mestil Hotel & Residences won the Luxury Business Hotel award in the Country (Uganda) category.
• Gorilla Safari Lodge located at the boundary line of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest won the Luxury Eco Safari Lodge, on the African Continent.

Many tourists use this eco-lodge during their Uganda gorilla tours in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

• Crater Safari Lodge located in Kibale National Park Uganda won the Luxury Lodge award at the regional category level.

Kibale National Park is famous for being home to over 13 primates hence christened the “Primate Capital of the World” It offers interesting primate walks and chimpanzee trekking safaris in Uganda.

The overall 2019 World Luxury Hotel award was won by Turkey’s Mandarin Oriental, Bodrum hotel.

A Glance at the World Luxury Hotel Awards

Established in 2006, World Luxury Hotel Awards is the world’s most prestigious and exclusive recognizing the best facilities and service excellence in the hotel industry as voted by guests, travellers and industry players alike. Over 300 000 international travellers vote each year, during a four-week period to select the winners.

About 705 km from Kampala -Uganda’s capital, getting to Kidepo Valley National Park by road or air is a great debate. Kidepo Valley National Park is situated far North East of Uganda in Kaabong district between the borders of the country with South Sudan and Kenya. Being distant from Kampala, this is one of the less-visited Uganda safari tour parks hence rewarding to those who take time to visit when they tour Uganda. Still almost untouched, this is the best place to have a true African experience so pristine with the real touch of Africa. Travelling to Kidepo is always perceived to be a long day’s safaris thought possible with the popular 3 days Kidepo wildlife safari.

How to get to Kidepo Valley National Park by road

There are four different routes that Uganda safaris tourists can use to get Kidepo Valley National Park Uganda. Driving along these roads is as interesting and memorable as touring Kidepo Valley National Park. The distance is worth it since the road will give the unexpected sights of your Uganda tour.

• The two routes that pass via northern Uganda from Kampala are;

The commonly used road is Kampala-Karuma-Lira-Kotido-Kaabong-Kidepo about 705km with a drive time of about 12-hours. If this route is taken, one should organize to spend a night in one of these towns most probably at accommodations in Murchison Falls National Park to break the journey, if one can’t take the whole days to drive.

The Kampala-Karuma-Gulu-Kitgum- Kidepo road is about 517km with a drive time lasting about 10 hours. After the tour the Kidepo-Kaabong-Kotido-Moroto-Sironko- Mbale-Kampala route is better such that you get a glimpse of the other part of the country through the marvellous Sipi falls and Mount Elgon National Park.

• Using the Eastern Uganda direction, these routes are the most favourable;

Kampala – Mbale – Sironko – Moroto – Kotido – Kaabong – Kidepo road is 740km with a drive time of about 12 hours. This route is distant but you pass via the source of the Nile where you can have a break at the Nile waters.

The Kampala – Mbale – Soroti – Moroto – Kotido – Kaabong – Kidepo road is almost the same route with the earlier one but takes different directions from Mbale. Its 792km with a drive distance of 13 hours. The roads in Kidepo are substandard and therefore 4WD cars for hire are essential. For the best experience taking a round trip is rewarding, you drive to Kidepo from the Eastern direction and return from the North or vice versa.

How to get to Kidepo Valley National park Uganda by air

If you need to safari Uganda‘s Kidepo Valley National Park but then don’t wish to take the long ride, no worries. Chartered flights can be organized from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi near Kampala by flight safari companies like AeroLink. These flights take about 2 – 3 hours to Apoka airstrip near Apoka safari lodge. Apoka safari lodge is 10minutes drive on a marram road to Kidepo valley national park. Flight safari companies like Aero link Uganda do these flights but prior bookings can be done by your tour operator.

On arrival, there’s no need to worry about where to stay in Kidepo Valley National Park for there all kinds of accommodation ranging from luxury, mid-range and budget.

Kidepo Valley is a top safari in Uganda destination, a great place to visit. Many tourists choose to tailor their trips to Uganda with Kenya safaris/ Kenya tours, Tanzania tours/ Tanzania safaris, Congo safaris/ Congo tours and Rwanda tours/Rwanda safaris for great wildlife interactions.

The best Flying safari to Kidepo Valley National Park

3 Days fly-in safari to Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo valley national park is the best safari park in Uganda and the best pristine wilderness in Africa. Situated in the far northeastern Uganda, the park is about 418km from Kampala-Uganda is one of the reasons why the park has held its beauty for long. A Uganda wildlife safari to Kidepo Valley National Park is the only opportunity for any tourist to define a wilderness at its best in Africa. Being distant from the capital the park is little visited by tourists on short Uganda safaris leaving the park with a lot of unbeaten tracks. Only those who take time to travel to this park can explain the beauty in these vast plains. When something is worth touring, we do anything possible to get you closer to mother nature, these 3 days fly-in safari to Kidepo valley national park will help you spend a little worth time at the park. This fly-in safari starts and ends at Entebbe International airport.

Kidepo national park is home to over 86 mammal species with about 28 endemics to the park. Wildlife in Kidepo includes herds of more than 4,000 buffalos (probably Africa’s largest single buffalo herd), elephants, fastest land animal-the cheetah, Bat-eared fox, caracal, klipspringer, lions, Maneless Zebras (ranging from Northwest Kenya and South Sudan), giraffe, Hyenas, Elands and Hartebeest. Along with wildlife, birds total to more than 475 bird species including the Ostrich, Black-breasted Barbet and Karamoja Apallis that are endemic to this park. What to see in Kidepo valley national park are as diverse as the vast wilderness itself.

Highlights of the 3 Days fly-in safari to Kidepo Valley National Park

Day 1: Fly to Kidepo valley national park from Entebbe international airport and have an afternoon game drive.

Day 2: Do an early morning game drive and have an evening community tour

Day 3: Do a morning game drive and fly back to Entebbe

Details of the 3 Days fly-in safari to Kidepo Valley National Park

Day 1: Chartered flights to Kidepo Valley National Park are organized by AERO LINK Uganda from Entebbe International airport. AERO LINK operates on Wednesday Friday and Sunday. You either fly into Kidepo valley national park on Wednesday and return on Friday or fly in on Friday and return to Entebbe on Sunday.  Scheduled flights depart at 12:30 pm from Entebbe and arrive at 14:45 pm. Your driver-guide will be waiting for you at Kidepo airport.

Day 2: The day starts with an early morning game drive. The morning game drive starts at 7:00 am and the more time you spend in the almost endless wilderness, the more amazing experiences. Wildlife game drives are a perfect Uganda safari/ Uganda tour/ Uganda tours/ Trips in Uganda activity in this wild game packed safari park. The park with its rugged savanna allows the drive through the open park easy with a sighting of the lions that may be on the valley’s various rocks. Other games that can be sighted at the park are the elephants, leopards, bush duiker, jackal, bushbuck, buffalo all together with the uniqueness of this land. In the evening, a visit to the communities around Kidepo including the Karamojong and IK people is an exclusive experience. Their cultures are rich with a lot of experiences as they sing, dance and demonstrate their daily lifestyle.

Day 3: On the third day of your safari, you do a morning game drive. This increases the chance of sighting the animals you didn’t see the previous day.  In the afternoon you take a return flight to Entebbe International airport leaving Kidepo at 15:00 pm and arrive at Entebbe at 16:30 pm.

You can also decide to hike mount Morungole during your safari.

Flying to Kidepo valley national park takes 2hrs 15mins compared to the 12 hours road drive. Accommodation is offered at Apoka rest camp (prior booked) just within the wilderness.

This return flight marks the end of the 3 days fly-in safari to Kidepo Valley National Park.

For all prior bookings and planning, a tour operator in Kidepo valley national park can do it best with help on customizing your safari.

What to carry for the 3 Days fly-in safari to Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo isn’t densely forested and cooler like the western region popular for Uganda gorilla safaris/ Uganda gorilla tours/ gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda/ gorilla trekking tours in Uganda. This is what you can carry for your 3 Days fly-in safari to Kidepo Valley National Park

• Carry light clothes
• light shoes (there’s no hike)
• A hat (round) for protection from the scorching sun
• sunscreen
• Camera for wildlife photography
• Binoculars for bird watching

Popular Uganda safaris

• 3 days Gorilla trekking safari in Uganda
• 3 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari to Bwindi
• 1 day Jinja tour excursion
• 1 Day Tour Ngamba Island Chimps
• 1 Day Kampala City Tour
• 3 Days Queen Elizabeth Park Safari Uganda
• 2 Days Wildlife safari in Uganda Queen Elizabeth
• 4 Days Wildlife Safari in Uganda to Queen Elizabeth National Park
• 3 Days Murchison Falls Safari Uganda
• 2 Days Murchison Falls safari Uganda
• 7 Days Uganda Budget Wildlife Safari Tour to Murchison Falls
• 3 Days Uganda Gorilla tour to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
• 2 Days Uganda Safari to Lake Mburo National Park
• 3 Days Uganda Safari to Lake Mburo National Park
• 2 Days Chimpanzee Trekking Safari
• 5 days Wildlife and Chimpanzee Safari in Uganda
• 3 Days Chimpanzee trekking safari in Kibale Uganda
• 4 Days Wildlife Chimpanzee Safari
• 5 Days Gorilla and Wildlife Safari in Uganda
• 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tour
• 10 Days Uganda Gorillas Chimps Safari
• 4 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Safari
• 6 Days Uganda Gorilla tour
• 6 days Uganda Gorilla Tracking safari
• 13 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari
• 8 Days Uganda safari tours
• 9 Days Uganda Safari
• 3 days Uganda Safari to Kidepo National Park

Sempaya Hot-Springs

Make your Africa safari tour very adventurous! During your Africa safari, make use of your Uganda safari guide, ask all questions where you need answers. Be curious and find out how somethings started existing? During your safari in Uganda or Africa wildlife safari to Semuliki National Park Uganda, you will visit the Sempaya hot springs found in this park. This park is blessed with Male and Female hot springs that have attracted a good number of tourists there. As part of your adventure, you will interact with the locals around Semuliki National Park, who will entertain you with their cultural performances as well as tell you stories about the place. The hot springs are one of the attractions in Semuliki National Park Uganda that are sought by many tourists on Uganda safaris. These hot springs, commonly known as the Sempaya hot springs are a must-see during your western Uganda safari tour. Most of the tourists who visit Uganda and go to this park are normally interested in Uganda birding safaris and Uganda wildlife safaris. The name “Sempaya” originated from a Kiswahili phrase Sehemu mbaya (the difficult side) owing to the steep challenging rocks and terrain during the construction of the Fort Portal Bundibugyo road along the ridges of the Rwenzori Mountains.

Real Stories Behind The Existence of Sempaya Hot-Springs

According to Scientists

Scientists describe a hot spring as a spring produced by the emergence of geothermal-heated groundwater from the earth’s crust. They believe Hot springs are formed when water comes into contact with the heated rock underneath. When water percolates deeply enough into the crust, it is heated as it comes into contact with hot rocks. In other words, Hot springs are formed by cracks extending down towards the exceedingly hot temperatures of the mantle, and water seeping downwards is heated and forced back up under pressure to bubble.

Tales told by the local people

The locals of this park have a very different folk story to tell and it totally differs from the scientist’s technical explanation about the hot springs. According to Mzee Adonia Balinsanga the head of the Bamaga clan, the site of the steaming male hot spring is historical and a treasure to the whole society. He said that once upon a time, the Bamaga women had one time gone to fetch firewood from the forest, and on their way, they sighted a strange hairy man dressed in bark cloth, having a spear and a dog moving in a zig-zag formation around that location where the hot springs are. Because of fear, the women ran back home to tell their husbands about this man. Their husbands met and decided to pick and take him to their homes and after some time, they got him a wife from the same village. This man whose identity was known as Biteete, was a hunter in life.

He continued to go hunting in the wild because it is what he was used too. So, one time he went out to hunt but never returned home. His wife and other people who used to stay around him kept wondering where he had gone. So, after three days of missing, the men of the village went out to search for him in the village but failed to get him. So, as they passed by the present-day male hot spring, they only found a spear but no traces of the man nor his dog. They assumed he had disappeared from the same spot where the women had found him. These men ran back to tell the wife (Nyansimbi) about what they had found out. In confusion, the wife also-ran to the forest never returned. In the subsequent search, only her clothes were found at the present day female hot spring. This was how the two springs became to be known as the male and female hot springs and to-date the Bamaga believe their female ancestors live beneath the female hot spring while their male ancestors live at the male spring. This is why the Bamaga until today perform annual rituals at the springs to appease their ancestors and the national park allows them to access these places.

After your short Uganda safari tour to the hot springs, you can also add a short Uganda wildlife safari to your itinerary or a long Uganda wildlife safari or even a Uganda gorilla safari/Uganda gorilla trek safari. If you are not interested in Uganda wildlife safari tours, you can undertake a Uganda birding safari, a cycling safari in Uganda, a chimpanzee trekking safari, a golden monkey trekking safari, nature walks, a Kampala city tour, a Jinja city tour, or just an adrenaline adventure in Jinja where you will enjoy horseback riding, water rafting, boat cruise, quad biking, cycling, kayaking and many more depending on your choice during your safaris Uganda.

Chimpanzees or chimps are a species of the great ape in the genus pan. DNA evidence from fossils shows that the species constitutes of the sister taxon to the modern human lineage. Sharing about 98.7% DNA. The chimpanzee is covered in coarse black hair, though with a bare face, fingers, toes, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet. Weighs between 40 and 65 kg (88 and 143 lb.) and measures about 63 to 94 cm (25 to 37 in) with the gestation period lasting about eight months and weaned at about 3 years. Its lifespan in the wild can exceed 40 years and its lifespan in captivity is about 50 years. Lively, energetic and charming chimpanzees are fascinating to watch and this is one of the reasons why chimpanzee trekking is one of the key activities for tourists on Uganda wildlife safaris. In Uganda, chimpanzees are found in Kibale Forest National Park, Budongo Forest, Kalinzu forest and Kyambura Gorge within Queen Elizabeth National Park. With several Uganda safari destinations offering chimpanzee trekking as a safari activity, how do you choose where to go, what to expect and how to plan?

Here is all about chimpanzee trekking safaris in Uganda.

Kibale Forest National Park

Known for numerous chimpanzees, the Kanyanchu sector of Kibale Forest National Park is Africa’s most popular and busiest chimping destination. With about 1400 chimpanzees, Kibale Forest National Park is low lying and the terrain is mostly flat and easy with little undergrowth and some relatively open areas – great for clear sightings and photography. The forest offers the favorite food source to the chimpanzees from plenty of fig trees each fruiting at a slightly different time to the next. With the habituation of chimpanzees in Kibale Forest national Park, you can opt for the 1-hour chimp tracking experience or go for a half or full day chimpanzee habituation experience.

Budongo Forest

Close to Uganda’s oldest national park Murchison Falls National Park within the Murchison Falls Conservation Area, Budongo Forest is home to over 600 chimps. The chimpanzees are found within the Kaniyo Pabidi sector where you can undertake a half day or full day trek. The forest is fairly flat and the chimps fairly easy to find, but the canopy is denser than Kibale, making photography more challenging.

Kyambura Gorge

On a Uganda wildlife safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park, including a chimpanzee trekking tour to the Kyambura Gorge is one of the greatest options. Unlike other chimpanzees, the ones in Kyambura Gorge live 100m below sea level in a gorge with a path that runs along one side of the Kyambura River. The trek alone is one of a kind and memorable enough within a beautiful setting as you walk through the gorge in search of the chimps.

How are chimpanzee trekking safaris done?

In Uganda, it’s rare to encounter wild chimps by chance or just by driving through their habitat so you will need to plan a safari in Uganda with a trusted tour operator. On the morning of your planned trek, park rangers will set off in advance to find the nests the chimps made the night before. They then track the group’s movements, listening for calls and looking for dung, knuckle prints and scraps of half-eaten leaves and fruit. When they locate the chimps, they’ll alert your guide, who will lead you through the forest. It all starts by following paths in a time range of between 30 minutes and several un predictable hours one that is an amazing experience of its own. As soon as you can see the chimps clearly, your one-hour encounter officially begins. After the 1 hour you return to the trek start point where you meet your Uganda tour guide for a transfer to your next destination.

When planning a wildlife safari in Uganda, don’t hesitate to include chimpanzee trekking for a much more memorable experience. You can even tailor your safari with a Uganda gorilla trekking safari to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park before or either after the trek. Chimpanzees can also be found in smaller numbers within East Africa during a Rwanda wildlife safari, Congo wildlife safari, wildlife safari in Tanzania or Kenya wildlife safari.

Popular Uganda Wildlife Safari Packages

• 3 days Gorilla trekking safari in Uganda
• 3 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari to Bwindi
• 1 day Jinja tour excursion
• 1 Day Tour Ngamba Island Chimps
• 1 Day Kampala City Tour
• 3 Days Queen Elizabeth Park Safari Uganda
• 2 Days Wildlife safari in Uganda Queen Elizabeth
• 4 Days Wildlife Safari in Uganda to Queen Elizabeth National Park
• 3 Days Murchison Falls Safari Uganda
• 2 Days Murchison Falls safari Uganda
• 7 Days Uganda Budget Wildlife Safari Tour to Murchison Falls
• 3 Days Uganda Gorilla tour to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
• 2 Days Uganda Safari to Lake Mburo National Park
• 3 Days Uganda Safari to Lake Mburo National Park
• 2 Days Chimpanzee Trekking Safari
• 5 days Wildlife and Chimpanzee Safari in Uganda
• 3 Days Chimpanzee trekking safari in Kibale Uganda
• 4 Days Wildlife Chimpanzee Safari
• 5 Days Gorilla and Wildlife Safari in Uganda
• 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tour
• 10 Days Uganda Gorillas Chimps Safari
• 4 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Safari
• 6 Days Uganda Gorilla tour
• 6 days Uganda Gorilla Tracking safari
• 13 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari
• 8 Days Uganda safari tours
• 9 Days Uganda Safari
• 3 days Uganda Safari to Kidepo National Park

Mountain Gorilla tracking is a popular Uganda safari, Rwanda safari and Congo safari because of the aliveness gorilla trekking safaris reward travellers. Gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda, Rwanda gorilla safari and Congo gorilla trekking safaris are the only way of seeing Mountain Gorillas in the whole world’s because, in the whole world, these special elusive giants are only found in the three African countries. Mountain Gorillas have before gone through numerous attempts to be captivated but still there no Mountain Gorillas in captivity. During the 1960s and the ’70s, numerous attempts were made to captivate Mountain Gorillas with many adults being killed to obtain babies but none of them survived.

The last known Mountain Gorilla that survived in captivity was known as Kaboko who survived in Senkwekwe Center mountain gorilla sanctuary at the Virunga National park headquarters in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. He passed on at approximately 5:30 a.m. on July 25 after fighting raged between the Congolese army and the M23 rebels less than a mile from the centre. In Congo, orphaned Mountain Gorillas are protected in the Senkwekwe centre but just within their natural habitat of Virunga National Park without moving them out of the park. Here is why Mountain Gorillas can’t survive in captivity or be taken to zoos;

The reason why Mountain Gorillas failed to survive in captivity is unclear but most probably the main reason is because of the complex gorilla diet. The dietary needs of a mountain gorilla are too specific based almost exclusively on foliage. Mountain Gorillas are primarily herbivores; the majority of their diet is composed of the leaves, shoots and stems (85.8%) of 142 plant species. It also feeds on bark (6.9%), roots (3.3%), flowers (2.3%), and fruit (1.7%), as well as small invertebrates. (0.1%). Adult males can eat up to 34 kilograms (75 lb.) of vegetation a day, while a female can eat as much as 18 kilograms (40 lb.). This rate of consumption and variety in feeds makes it difficult for the gorillas to survive in captivity. In most cases, whether on a Uganda gorilla safari, gorilla safari Rwanda or Congo gorilla tour, trekkers will find Mountain Gorillas feeding, this is because their natural habitat offers a variety of desired feed taken at their own will.

Many mountain gorillas in captivity die of heart disease resulting from obesity. This is so because they feed a lot and do less exercise. This could actually be the reason for the failure of mountain gorillas to survive in captivity. Mountain gorilla natural habitats range on an altitude of 3,904 – 8,553 m above sea level where the gorillas keep traversing all through the day.

The other reason could be stress, therefore, succumbing to disease more rapidly. For instance, kaboko the male gorilla that survived in Congo died after the outbreak of fights in the country just less than a mile from its residence. They are used to being in a peaceful environment and that’s why the number of Uganda gorilla tour, gorilla safari Congo or Rwanda gorilla trekking safari tourists are restricted to 8 people per gorilla family.

However, the population of mountain gorillas is just starting to recover and therefore trying to take them to captivity could seriously harm the population. It could be better to conserve the mountain gorillas within their natural habitat and we continue living without any of them in the zoos since we can still see them in the wild.

Best Way to See Mountain Gorillas?

Since there no mountain gorillas in captivity the only way of seeing them is by undertaking a gorilla trekking safari. Mountain Gorillas are only existent in three countries and Four National Parks in the whole world. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are the safari Uganda gorilla habitats. In Rwanda mountain gorillas are found in Volcanoes National Park and in Virunga National Park in Congo. To see the elusive gentle giants therefore one has to plan a Uganda gorilla trekking safari, Rwanda gorilla safari or Congo gorilla trekking safari. Each country has rules guiding the activity with a minimum age being 15 years of age. Mountain gorilla trekking involves hiking since the gorillas survive at an altitude of about 1,190-4,507.

Is it Safe to trek Mountain Gorillas?

Gorillas are not aggressive or readily set to cause harm to people. Generally, gorillas are very shy and reserved towards people however, if threatened or when a person behaves the wrong way they will attack. By behaving the wrong way, it means you didn’t follow the rules and therefore made noise, looked direct into its eyes, beat your chest or did expose them to flash photography, this will get them cautious. Before gorilla families are opened up for gorilla trekking they go through habituation, therefore, are carefully exposed to humans in the wild. They will still have caution near humans, but they have learned that humans are not a threat, and they act accordingly. Gorilla trekking is becoming a popular safari activity entailed in many itineraries to Africa because of the aliveness from the safari. Plan a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, Rwanda gorilla tour or gorilla trekking safari in Congo and have one of a kind safari. Humans and gorillas have a lot of likenesses since we share about 90% of DNA with the species. Tailor the activity to either your Rwanda wildlife safari, wildlife safari in Uganda or Congo wildlife safari and have more of sightings but a lifetime experience.

Best Uganda Gorilla Trekking Packages

For any kind of traveller whether luxury, Mid-range or basic planning to come in for Uganda tours, these gorilla trekking packages offer the best safari memories;

• 3 days Gorilla trekking safari in Uganda
• 3 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari to Bwindi
• 5 Days Gorilla and Wildlife Safari in Uganda
• Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tour
• 10 Days Uganda Gorillas Chimps Safari
• 4 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Safari
• 6 days Uganda Gorilla Tracking safari
• 13 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari

Uganda birding safari packages

1 Day Mabamba swamp excursion
7 Days Birding safari in Uganda
8 Days Uganda Birding safari
14 Days Uganda Primate birding safari
15 Days Uganda birding safari
19 Days Uganda birding safari
21 Days Birding safari in Uganda Africa

Uganda Wildlife Safari Packages

• 1 day Jinja tour excursion
• 1 Day Tour Ngamba Island Chimps
• 1 Day Kampala City Tour
• 3 Days Queen Elizabeth Park Safari Uganda
• 2 Days Wildlife safari in Uganda Queen Elizabeth
• 4 Days Wildlife Safari in Uganda to Queen Elizabeth National Park
• 3 Days Murchison Falls Safari Uganda
• 2 Days Murchison Falls safari Uganda
• 7 Days Uganda Budget Wildlife Safari Tour to Murchison Falls
• 2 Days Uganda Safari to Lake Mburo National Park
• 3 Days Uganda Safari to Lake Mburo National Park
• 2 Days Chimpanzee Trekking Safari
• 5 days Wildlife and Chimpanzee Safari in Uganda
• 3 Days Chimpanzee trekking safari in Kibale Uganda
• 4 Days Wildlife Chimpanzee Safari
• 10 Days Uganda Gorillas Chimps Safari
• 4 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Safari
• 13 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari
• 8 Days Uganda safari tours
• 9 Days Uganda Safari
• 3 days Uganda Safari to Kidepo National Park

Christened “The Pearl of Africa” by Sir Churchill on his safari Uganda in 1907, Uganda has for long remained one of the must-visit Africa safari destinations. Regardless of its size, Uganda has several safari destinations, unique attractions and different activities that tourists can enjoy in their Uganda safari tour however, they need a Uganda safari guide. Uganda is blessed with over 10 National Parks including Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, Queen Elizabeth National park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Semuliki National Park Uganda, Kibale National Park, Mountain Elgon National Park, Mountain Rwenzori National Park, Lake Mburo National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National park.

Each of these parks has different attractions that are unique to the park. A traveler can do a Uganda wildlife safari/ short Uganda wildlife safari, a Uganda birding safari, an adventure safari, an adrenaline adventure, nature walks, boat cruise safaris, horseback riding safaris, Uganda gorilla safaris, Uganda chimpanzee trekking safaris, Uganda golden monkey trekking safaris, Uganda cultural tours and many more.

However, there are a number of set rules that govern all National Parks in Uganda that are followed and they include the following;The Uganda Tourism Board in conjunction with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) set rules and regulations to govern all the National Parks in Uganda.

• No one is allowed to make Campfires except under the guidance of rangers. Campfires in any National Park are only allowed at the officially designed campsite places. If not guided, fire can gut wild animals, birds and their habitats. unauthorized fire setting can also scare away animals.
• During your Uganda wildlife safari game drives in the park, you’re not allowed to off track. Off tracking should only be done under the guidance of rangers because unauthorized off tracking attracts a fine. All Uganda Safari guides are strictly advised to drive through only the legalized routes in order to protect bushes, a forest where the animals stay as well as the animals and birds and birds themselves.
• Don’t drive in the park between 7:30 pm and 6:30 am
• You are supposed to avoid motor horn sounds while in the park. These sounds scare animals and birds and may end up becoming harmful. The horn sounds may also affect people with heart diseases found in the park.
• Driving through the park at night is not allowed unless guided by the rangers. Night game in parks like Semuliki National Park is paid for and strictly guided by the rangers. This is done to avoid knocking nocturnal which move at night in the park. Also note that the vehicle doing night game drives should be able to give maximum light.
• Do not enter the park with pet animals like dogs, snakes, birds among others. This is done to minimize the spread of diseases from one animal to another.
• Avoid carrying firearms to the park. These can destruct the security in the park. You may be looked at as a threat to wildlife and other visitors in the park.
• Game drive in Murchison falls National Park

Avoid destroying vegetation by plucking leaves, flowers or uprooting plants, as well as setting fire in the park. Learn that, the parks are natural habitats for wildlife which should be conserved for the future generation. The destroying of wildlife habitat can force them to migrate to another location hence losing them.

• Drive a speed of about 40km per hour (25mph) to avoid accidents in the park. Knocking animals or birds will attract fines and you will pay for each knocked animal.
• Carry all your documents and present them for verification at any entry point before doing any activity inside the park-like boat trips, fishing trips and many more. You must present your receipts, Identity Cards, passports, and or driver’s license for inspection.

Before you set out for a gorilla trekking safari Uganda:

• Do not visit the gorillas if you have a cold or other infectious illness.
• Human waste should be buried 30cm (12″) deep
• Maximum number of visitors is eight people per gorilla group

When you are with the gorillas:

• Maintain a 7m (21ft) distance from the gorilla
• Smoking, eating and drinking are not permitted on the tour
• If you must sneeze or cough cover your face and turn away from the gorillas, as they can catch coughs and colds from humans
• Visits are limited to one hour per gorilla group per day

Besides wildlife safaris in Uganda, birding safaris in Uganda, Gorilla safari tours Uganda and many more, we can tailor for you an Africa tour itinerary that features different countries so you also enjoy other safari activities like Rwanda wildlife safaris, Kenya wildlife safaris, Tanzania wildlife safaris, Kenya birding safaris, Rwanda gorilla safaris, Congo gorilla safaris and many more Africa safari tours. This normally depends on your choice and budget.

Uganda Safari Packages

• 3 days Gorilla trekking safari in Uganda
• 3 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari to Bwindi
• 1 day Jinja tour excursion
• 1 Day Tour Ngamba Island Chimps
• 1 Day Kampala City Tour
• 3 Days Queen Elizabeth Park Safari Uganda
• 2 Days Wildlife safari in Uganda Queen Elizabeth
• 4 Days Wildlife Safari in Uganda to Queen Elizabeth National Park
• 3 Days Murchison Falls Safari Uganda
• 2 Days Murchison Falls safari Uganda
• 7 Days Uganda Budget Wildlife Safari Tour to Murchison Falls
• 3 Days Uganda Gorilla tour to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
• 2 Days Uganda Safari to Lake Mburo National Park
• 3 Days Uganda Safari to Lake Mburo National Park
• 2 Days Chimpanzee Trekking Safari
• 5 days Wildlife and Chimpanzee Safari in Uganda
• 3 Days Chimpanzee trekking safari in Kibale Uganda
• 4 Days Wildlife Chimpanzee Safari
• 5 Days Gorilla and Wildlife Safari in Uganda
• Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tour
• 10 Days Uganda Gorillas Chimps Safari
• 4 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Safari
• Uganda Gorilla Safari
• 6 days Uganda Gorilla Tracking safari
• 13 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari
• 8 Days Uganda safari tours
• 9 Days Uganda Safari
• 3 days Uganda Safari to Kidepo National Park

Interested in a Uganda cultural safari on your Africa safari to Uganda! Now is the time to book for the best Uganda cultural tour in Uganda; the of Bayimba International Festival. The Bayimba International Festival of the Arts is undoubtedly Uganda’s number one festival. The Bayimba International Festival is a multiple-branched organization that focuses on uplifting arts and culture in Uganda through cultural exchange and creativity. Uplifting different arts and culture are called for because there is a wide range of ethnic groups in Uganda with many different languages spoken, namely Luganda (most common), English (only a small portion speak it), a little bit of Swahili and several other different languages.

All these cultures on this present their diverse cultural mosaic of music, art, and handcrafts to the culture and norms, to the rituals, that prove that Uganda’s culture is unmatched. A visit to each of these will introduce you to a completely different set of practices and beliefs.

Culture everywhere is described by dance and drama as the most components of cultural ceremonies along with songs and this is exactly what you can expect to witness on your cultural trip in Uganda. There are other ceremonies and passage rites like birth rites, marriage, and initiation which are held with high regard in the different cultures and may be different in many ways.

What happens at the Bayimba International Festival?

The four-day Bayimba International Festival of the Arts has become an important benchmark for the consumption of the finest Arts. Every first week of August, Lunkulu Island off the shores of Lake Victoria comes alive as a vibrant and eventful island when an unparalleled 24 hours and 4 days’ feast of Music, Dance, Poetry, Storytelling, Acrobatics, Theatre, Film, and Visual Arts from renowned and upcoming Artists is brought to Mukono District.

Since its first edition in 2008, a wide variety of known and upcoming Artists from Uganda, East Africa and beyond have performed at the different stages of the Bayimba International Festival of the Arts. The 12th edition of this acclaimed festival is scheduled to take place from 1st to 4th August 2019 at Lunkulu Island, Mukono, Uganda, bringing to life a true experience of the Arts in all its forms.

The Festival has truly become a highlight on Uganda’s social and cultural calendar and is also gradually developing into an important (East) African destination Festival, ensuring regional and international visitation and enhancing both national and international cultural tourism.

Last year, the festival featured more than 1 000 performing local and international artists on six stages. They included Jose Chameleon from Uganda, The Soil (South Africa), Swahili Ally from Tanzania), Shamsi Music from Kenya, Shane Palko (US), Pseudopolis & Lewis Lowe (UK), Bolivar Mvulu (DRC/Netherlands) and Ancient Astronauts (Germany/Uganda/Kenya/DRC).

About Bayimba

Bayimba recognizes the relevance of arts and culture in social and economic development as well as individual human development. Its vision is a vibrant art and culture sector that is professional, creative and viable and contributes to social and economic development in Uganda and East Africa. Bayimba is therefore dedicated to contribute to making Uganda a significant hub for arts and culture on the African continent and led by its values of respect, shared leadership, transparency, accountability, learning, and collaboration.

Various programmes and activities are delivered by the various Bayimba branches. These range from a series of Bayimba Festivals across the country brought to you by Bayimba Foundation, some comprehensive arts education programme under the heading of the Bayimba Academy and a range of concerts and events as well as other products and services under Bayimba Productions Ltd.

Bayimba has also kick-started a number of important initiatives, such as Culture Unlimited, a national network for the creative and cultural community, DOADOA as the regional platform for networking and joint learning for performing artists in East Africa. For more information, reference is made to the Annual Reports of Bayimba Foundation.

Location of Lunkulu Island

The festival will take place at Lunkulu Island on the shore of Lake Victoria off Mukono/Katosi road, 42 km from Kampala and 60 km from Jinja, and can be easily reached by road and can be accessed by boat.

Lunkulu Island
0°10’34.9″N 32°53’09.2″E
0.176358, 32.885882

How to get to Lunkulu

By own car

If coming by own car you are requested to travel through Nkokonjeru to join for the official festival parking area at Namaziina landing site from where you can cross to Lunkulu Island by a footbridge.

Note that vehicles cannot access the island.

By private transport

Various private transport options from the airport as well as Kampala are available. You can cross to Lunkulu Island by boat from Kibanga port and landing site (drop off/KissAndDrive only)) or by footbridge from Namaziina landing site.

Note that all drop-offs and pickups at Kibanga Port and landing site will be allowed till 7 pm. No Boats will be allowed to land or take off to Lunkulu after 7 pm.

By public transport

Public transport from the Old Taxi Park in Kampala using a taxi (matatu) cost about 5,000/= UGX to Kisoga town on Katosi road. From there one can use a Boda Boda ranging from between 3,000 – 5,000/= UGX to Kibanga port from where you can cross with a boat to Lunkulu Island.

From Mukono, you can take a taxi for 3,000/= UGX at the Mukono park located in Mukono town near Collin Hotel to get to Kisoga town on Katosi road. From there you can use a Boda Boda ranging from between 3000-500/= UGX to Kibanga port where you can cross with a boat to Lunkulu Island.

Visitors from outside Uganda

All visitors from outside Uganda require a Visa and Yellow Fever Card to enter Uganda for the Bayimba Fest, for a short Uganda safari, Uganda cultural tour, Kampala city tour, Jinja city excursion or anything according to your Africa tour plan.

Flights

Uganda’s main airport is the Entebbe International airport which is directly served by a range of airlines.  Airport transfers are available and can be booked through Prime safaris & Tours Ltd. You may be interested in a self-drive safari in Uganda, or self-drive car hires Uganda tour as you go out to enjoy the Bayimba festival. Our fleet comprises of ordinary 4×4 land cruisers, 4×4 minivans, 4×4 super custom, coasters, saloon cars, that move around Kampala. If you are continuing for other safaris in Uganda; a short Uganda gorilla safari, a Uganda wildlife safari, a Uganda chimpanzee trekking safari, a Uganda gorilla tour, long Uganda wildlife tour, a short Uganda wildlife safari tour or anything depending on what you are interested in during your amazing Africa safaris.

Bus

There are various bus companies connecting to Uganda from across the region like Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda etc. A special festival tour package for visitors from Kenya is arranged in partnership with Picnic Entity

Accommodation

On-site camping

Camping is free for Full Festival Pass holders. It is advised you to come with your tent and camping gear. If you do not have a tent, pre-pitched tents can be hired for all the festival days throughout your stay.

Only tents are allowed, there is no space for campers.

There will be no electricity but there will be mobile phone charging points.

There will be basic sanitary facilities.

Off-site accommodation

Those in need of other accommodation can check out on the different accommodations in Mukono for hotel options or other facilities nearby between 15 – 25 km.

Tickets

Fee: UGX 71,000 Festival Full Pass, UGX 100,000 Camping (Early Bird tickets)

UGX 50,000 Festival Full Pass of 5 People each person (Early Bird tickets)

UGX 45,000 Festival Full Pass of 10 People each Person (Early Bird tickets)

UGX 30,000 One-day festival (Gate pass)

UGX 95,000 Full Festival pass, UGX 180,000 Camping (Gate pass)

After enjoying your Uganda cultural safari tour festival, there are several other places in Uganda that you can visit including Kampala for a Kampala city tour, Kampala day trip, 1 Day Kampala city tour, 1 Day Kampala day tour, or to Jinja for a Jinja city tour, 1 Day Jinja day trip. You can also choose to undertake a Uganda gorilla safari tour, a Uganda wildlife safari, a short Uganda wildlife safari, a long Uganda wildlife safari, a short Uganda safari, a chimpanzee trekking safari Uganda, horse riding in Jinja source of the Nile, white water rafting in Jinja source of the Nile, boat cruise to Jinja source of the Nile, kayaking in Jinja source of the Nile, or anything other activity you’re interested in doing outside the mentioned.

Uganda safari package options

1 Day Ngamba Island day trip
2 Days Uganda chimpanzee trekking safari
3 Days Kidepo Uganda wildlife flying safari
6 Days Uganda gorilla tour
8 Days Uganda tour
2 Days Uganda wildlife safari tour
2 Days Murchison safari Uganda
2 Days Kibale chimpanzee trekking safari
3 Days Kidepo wildlife safari Uganda
3 Days Bwindi gorilla safari Uganda
4 Days Uganda wildlife & chimpanzee trekking safari 
5 Day Uganda gorilla safari
8 Days Uganda safari
9 Days Uganda tour
12 Days Uganda Gorilla & wildlife safari
13 Day Uganda Rwanda safari
13 Days Uganda Rwanda gorilla trekking safari

How to Keep Your Car Safe During the Rainy Season – Uganda Safari News

The rainy season is one natural occurrence, you can not avoid and deciding to park your car and stay indoors isn’t the best option. Whether on a hired 4×4 safari vehicle or a personal car, rainwater is not something that you want your vehicle or car to be exposed to. However, when the rains come during your safari to Uganda or just while driving in the country, stopping the trip can’t be the option but then how do you protect it from the effects of rain water. Here are a few tips on how to keep your car safe during the rainy season  whether on a Uganda safari or just on a drive to a desired destination;

• Don’t let rainwater sit on the car for a long time

Yes, you have to drive through the rain and the water will definitely drop on the car surface. However, the water is damaging to the paint of the body. So, wash the car after you are done with the driving for the day. If you are on a Uganda tour, by the end of the end you can find where to wash the car from before parking it.  If you need to stay outside for a long time, using wax polish could be a feasible solution. It creates a thin protective layer on the paint and makes water to roll off easily.

• Seal off all the openings

Sealing off all of the car openings is one way to keep your car safe during the rainy season. It’s important so that rain does not leak inside the car. It’s your duty to check the rubber lining on doors before the arrival of the rainy season. Repair or replace them in case the linings are torn off or damaged. Moreover, grease the door hinges to make them completely watertight. The exposed metal parts may develop rust due to the continuous exposure to water. Spray these areas with an anti-corrosion product to prevent the weathering.

• Wash your car frequently

It might not make sense to the beginner drivers as they think that rain is doing that job relentlessly. The truth is any vehicle collects more dirt and grime while driving on wet surfaces and muddy tracks. Frequent cleaning will keep your car safe  during  rainy season from contaminants that can damage the paint.  Besides, it will neutralize the acidity in the rain water. However, don’t forget to use a good-quality car shampoo because the dirt and debris will scrub and scratch the soft paint if you don’t lubricate the surface.

• Protect the interiors from water and moisture

Despite taking all the preventive measures, it’s not rare to discover wet carpet and flooring when you are driving in the rain. These could be from your clothing or shoes as you got into the car to set off for your safari in Uganda. You should use fabric mats instead of the rubber ones so that they can soak the liquid and always keep extra sets to replace in the time of emergency.

Use a vacuum cleaner and keep a bottle of essential oil or fresh herbs such as mint, rosemary, chamomile, etc. to remove the bad odor. If the seats get wet, avoid the development of mildew by keeping the windows open when parked in the garage.

• Take care of tires

The rainy season is a test for the tires especially on long drives and up country drives especially on Uganda gorilla safaris to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.  This is because you have to often drive on slippery, muddy surfaces. So, the tread should be at the right depth, and the inflation should be at the proper level to ensure better driving comfort and keep your car safe during the rainy season.

These are not only for safety when you safari Uganda but also for the long life of the vehicle for years to come.

You can hire a vehicle for these popular 3 Days Uganda Gorilla tour to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park or 3 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari to Bwindi.

How to get Cheap self-drive cars for hire in Uganda – Uganda Safari News

Looking for a self-drive car for hire in Uganda? All kinds of cars for self-drive are available in Uganda. Self-drive is possible in Uganda as long as you follow the terms and conditions, it allows you to commute at your own pace and stop at your will. Car hire rentals Uganda Kampala is one of the best Uganda car hire rental agencies that offers self-drive car hire services for any kind of travelers who love to explore the Pearl of Africa. Self-drive cars for hire are available for short 1-day Kampala city tours, 1-day Jinja source of the Nile tour and any other extended Uganda safari. However, many travelers perceive self drive car hire as expensive but then its the opposite to the perception. In comparison with hiring a safari vehicle with a Uganda tour driver guide, self drive car hire is cheaper and can save you a huge sum of money.

Car hire rentals Uganda Kampala has offered car hire services for many years and the expertise has since grown. This is the only travel agency that offers affordable or cheap self-drive cars for hire in both Uganda. Our independent self-drive tour program gives travelers freedom to travel and explore Uganda as per their interests though limited to the days booked. Travelers are free to visit Uganda’s National Parks, water wonders, diverse cultures and recreation places by car. We guarantee your travel experience will be easy and stress free throughout your holiday as long as you have all the driving requirements with you.

In case there’s need to deliver the car where you are, within Kampala and Entebbe our driver will deliver the car to you. You will commute at your comfort for the time you paid for the car. Here are some of the kind of cars for self-drive hire;

Best cars for city tours

• Rav 4s
• Ordinary Land Cruisers
• Costas
• Vans
• Mini vans

Best vehicles for Uganda safari tours to national parks

• 4×4 safari Land Cruisers
• 4×4 safari vans
• 4×4 Costas

Requirements for self-drive car hire in Uganda

• National identity card (for Ugandan citizens)
• Valid passport and any identification card for international tourists.
• Valid driving Permit

• Above 18 years of age
• All car hire fees must be cleared

Still wondering how to get cheap self drive cars for hire in Uganda? contact car hire rentals Uganda Kampala for all of the details and guidance on what you need. It doesn’t matter whether its a short safari in Uganda or long wildlife tour Uganda  like our popular 10 Days Uganda Gorillas Chimps Safari all kinds of safari vehicles can be provided.