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Experiences

Experience the Royal Mile Inside Budongo Forest

Budongo Chimpanzees

Are you looking for an authentic place to visit within Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom? Then add the Royal Mile Trail inside Budongo Forest reserve on your itinerary, especially if you are planning to visit Murchison Falls National Park and the Budongo Forest Reserve. The Royal Mile trail is one of the most spectacular trails you shouldn’t miss to explore while on a cultural Safari in Uganda.

It was constructed by one of the Kings of Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom for exhilarating nature walks and leisure activities and believe it or not, it is one of the most interesting trails for tourists who visit Budongo Forest Reserve near the Nyabyeya Forestry College found in Budongo sub-county of Masindi district.

This trail is the most perfect place for birding safaris within this large tropical rainforest. It is said that Omukama (King) Kabalega Chwa II-born in 1853 and died in 1923 of Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom used to often visit Budongo Forest, together with his Queen for recreational activities or to supervise the Abarusuura (his army) that were undergoing training and to perform rituals within the tropical rainforest.  All the activities he used to do were within a place known as the “Royal Mile”-a paradise for numerous wild animals and bird species that capture the attention of tourists. It is undeniable that this trail was named after the unforgettable activities of the historic Omukama Kabalega.

The terrain of this site is flat which is perfect for nature walks, taking care of all the travelling conditions for tourists. The Royal Mile is a magnificent and long trail in Budongo Forest, on the Southern side of the Forest. Budongo Forest Reserve, covering over 739 square kilometers lies at the border of the Albertine Rift Valley and is part of the Southern side Murchison Falls National Park.

Next to the edge of Budongo Forest is the spectacular Lake Kanyege, a home to numerous aquatic bird species and several butterfly species. Not only that, chimpanzees within habituated communities can be tracked during a primate safari in Uganda and the best time is to track them as early as possible hence overnight within the Forest is recommended.

There are several bird species within the Royal Mile. And 2 species are endemic to the trail-the Illadopsis puveli and the yellow-footed flycatcher and other numerous species endemic to the Albertine Rift region. Some of the notable bird species you will encounter within the Royal Mile Trail include the Hairy-breasted Barbet, the Blue-breasted Kingfisher, the Nahan’s Francolin, the Cassin’s Spinetail, the Fire-crested Alethe, the Dwarf Kingfisher, the Black-capped Apalis, the Blue-throated Roller, the Blue-shouldered Robin-Chat, the Ituri Batis, the Lemon-bellied Crombec, the Rufous-crowned Eremomela, the Western-black Headed Oriole, the Piping Hornbill, the Spotted Greenbul, the Yellow-browed Camaroptera, the Sabine’s Spinetail, the Chocolate-backed Kingfisher, the Yellow-billed Barbet, the Grey-headed Sunbird, the Yellow-spotted Barbet, the Brown-eared Woodpecker, the Chestnut-caped Flycatcher, the Yellow-crested Woodpecker, the White-spotted Flufftail, the White-thighed Hornbill, the African Crowned Eagle and the Red-capped Robin-Chat, to mention but a few.

In conclusion, the Royal Mile Trail within Budongo Forest Reserve is one of the most interesting trails in western Uganda because it allows tourists walk through the same path used by the former King of Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom (Omukama Kabalega Chwa II) and explore numerous bird species including the Cassin’s Spinetail, the Fire-crested Alethe, the Dwarf Kingfisher, ituri batis and the Black-capped Apalis among others.

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Places to Visit

Kasubi Tombs: Where Four Kings of Buganda Rest

Kssubi Tombs

Kampala is not only a visitors’ center for visitors to Uganda, it also has many historical, cultural, manmade and religious attractions. The Kampala’s most famous attraction is the Kasubi tombs. From Kampala, the Kasubi Tombs is located 5 kilometers away on Kasubi hill. The ground is a royal burial place for four kings of Buganda, anciently known as Kabakas. Now the burial ground of kings holds importance in the Ganda culture as it symbolizes the Ganda’s culture and history.

The tombs and palaces are great exemplary of ancient African architecture, hut made of reeds, different types of spears and their pet animals. The entire area shows their lifestyle. All year round, traditional customs, ceremonies are carried out in this place. On the new moon night, a ceremony and consultation medium is held between the tribal people and the kings. But the ceremonies are carried in very secretive manner, hidden from the outsiders, within the building.

The Baganda is a part of the tribe of Uganda who speak Bantu. The history of the king of the Baganda is said to be that first Kabaka (king) was Kintu who came here in Uganda with his wife Nambi. He did not die in battle or by something else, but he got lost in the forest of Magonga, and was never to be known.

The palace at the burial ground was first constructed by Kabaka Mutesa I in 1882. The traditional of the Baganda is very interesting like according to the tradition of Baganda, the if the king dies, he should be buried at different site, and his jawbone was to be removed and place in the a royal shrine which should be made at different site as it was said that jawbone carried the spirit. But when Kabaka Mutesa I died (1856-1884), he was buried in his previous palace with his jawbone.

Later his son, Mwanga II who happens as expected like his father Mutesa. But he was staying at the Seychelles Islands, and when he died (1910) his remaining were brought from there and buried beside his father. The Mwanga II also had a son, Daudi Chwa II; even he ruled and died in 1939. He got respectful burial, like his fathers, at the tombs too.

Daudi Chwa’s son, Edward Muteesa, took over his father position and with changing world; he became governor of the Uganda province. After achieving so much, he died in London in 1966. His body was brought here and united with his father and ancestors, in the tomb.
The reason why the tombs of the great kings hold so much significance is because old traditions was broken at the site when Four kings of Baganda were obscured simultaneously. Since then, every descendent of the 4 kabakas are buried behind the main shrine. It has become a royal cemetery of Buganda kingdom.

As soon as you reach the royal burial as well as the religious place of Buganda, the first thing you will notice is the magnificent gatehouse, known as Bujjabukula, which is an entrance to the site. The roof of the gatehouse is supported by the wooden poles and wall is built of interwoven reeds. The gate goes to small circular house, called as House of Royal drums. There are many small houses, which was dwelling place for the Kabakas widows, and for other rituals in the main courtyard.

Behind the Kasubi and other royal tombs has back door, which leads to the forest. Inside the forest, the royal kabakas tombs are kept and most of the ceremonies like new moon and other rituals are carried there only. The back door is cover with cloth curtain and only kabakas widows and their descendents are allowed to go in there.

However, the Kasubi Tombs is a great place to view royal insignia like drums, spears, photographs, shields and medals of the buried Kabakas. The structure is very impressive to see – the wooden poles structure draped in backcloth, the ground are swathe with palms leaves mats and grass. The thatching of the roof was done by the Ngeye Clan and the Leopard clan carried out the work of decorating the poles. The backcloths used to decorate the poles are made of soft back of a fig tree. The fig tree has a very important in the Uganda’s rituals.

There is a unique tradition or rule, cant say, but people at that time didn’t allowed the Thatchers to have intercourse until the thatching work doesn’t get completed and plus, ladies were not allowed to enter the house as believed that it would cause leakage in monsoon. The Ganda culture’s 52 clans are signifying in the 52 rings that support the roof of the structure.

The Kasubi Tombs are great exemplary of heritage as well as rich tradition of the Baganda people. Inhabitants consider that every person’s death has a sacred origin and there is communication linked between the dead and the living. The people of Uganda have great respect for this place as their fore fathers, rulers and tradition lie here even today.

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Safari Guide

Best Safaris in Western Uganda

Uganda is a land locked country in East Africa located bordered by Kenya in the East, Tanzania in the north, Democratic Republic of Congo in the west and Sudan in the north. Uganda is blessed with geographical and cultural diversities including a number of lakes, rivers, mountains, forests, savannahs, grasslands, woodlands, water falls, traditional customs among others. It is the reason for the name Uganda the pearl of Africa as named by Sir Winston Churchill in his book “My African Journey”.

However the western region of Uganda hosts majority of the National parks and tourist attractions that attract travelers over and over including Bwindi impenetrable National park and Mgahinga National park in south western Uganda known for gorilla trekking, Kibale National park known for chimpanzee trekking other primate walking, Queen Elizabeth National park the second largest National park after Murchison Falls National park with the highest concentration of wild life, Lake Mburo National park well known for game viewing, Semuliki National park with sempaya hot springs that attract travelers because their water is too hot to the extent of boiling eggs and make them ready, mountain Rwenzori National park the highest block mountain in Uganda and second highest in Africa after mountain Kilimanjaro. Each of these National parks offers different experiences on your safari to western Uganda. Western Uganda has the most breath taking and memorable safaris which include;

Mountain gorilla trekking safaris

Mountain gorillas are endangered species that are found in Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo only in the Africa and the whole world. But mountain gorilla safaris in western Uganda are done in Bwindi and Mgahinga National parks situated in south western Uganda in the extreme end of Kanungu and Kisoro district respectively.

Bwindi impenetrable National park is home to over 450 mountain gorillas and almost half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas. Bwindi impenetrable National park has 4 sectors where gorillas are found and gorilla trekking is carried out including Buhoma sector in the north, Ruhija sector in the east, Nkuringo and Rushaga sectors in the southern part of the park. These sectors have over 18 gorilla families that can be trekked by people who are 15 years and above. Mgahinga National park has only one gorilla family called Nyakagezi habituated for trekking bringing it to a total of 19 habituated gorilla families in Uganda.

Gorilla trekking is done throughout the year but best advisable during the months of January, February, June, July, August and December when there is little or no rain fall and when the trails are less slippery.

Gorilla safaris in western Uganda makes your safari memorable as you encounter with the endangered species in their natural habitats very early in the morning guided by the ranger guides. Each gorilla family allows only 8 members per day for a maximum of 1 hour for observation and photography.

Gorilla trekking in western Uganda costs 600 US dollars per person currently but it will increase to 700 US dollars starting 1st July 2020 for foreign nonresidents, 600 for foreign residents and 250,000 Ugandan shillings for East African residents.

However, there is gorilla habituation as well in Bwindi impenetrable National park in Rushaga sector which allows travelers to spend 4 hours in the presence of the mountain gorillas compared to trekking which only allows only 1 hour, but the cost for gorilla habituation is 1500 US dollars for foreign nonresidents and 1000 US dollars for foreign residents.

However your gorilla safari can over chances to the Batwa community the ancient people of the forest, this can be done in the evening after gorilla trekking and learn about their ancient life style in the forest, traditional dances and other forms of entertain which makes your safari memorable.

Chimpanzee trekking safaris

Chimpanzees are also apes under the primate class which are close relatives of humans with 98% human DNA. Chimpanzees in western Uganda can be found in several destinations including Kibale National park the major destination for chimpanzee trekking in Uganda and the whole world.

Kibale National park has over 1500 and highest number of chimpanzees and other 12 primate species, bird species, Kyambura gorge game reserve in Queen Elizabeth National park with variety of chimpanzees, Budongo forest reserve with quite a number chimpanzees after Kibale National park, Toro Semuliki forest reserve also chimpanzee trekking destination and Kalinzu forest in Bushenyi district close to Queen Elizabeth with over 50 habituated chimpanzees.

Chimpanzee trekking is done early in the guided by the ranger guides to locate the chimpanzees, on encounter with the primates, travelers are allowed only 1 hour in the presence of the chimpanzees by people who are 15 years and above. Kibale National park and Budongo forest reserve also offers chimpanzee habituation experiences which allow travelers to spend the whole day in the presence of the chimpanzees.

Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National park costs 150 US dollars currently and will be 200 US dollars starting 1st July 2020 while habituation is also 200 US dollars, chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura, Toro Semuliki and Kalinzu is 50 US dollars all managed by Uganda Wildlife Authority and chimpanzee trekking in Budongo is 80 US dollars but managed by Budongo Eco lodge.

Wildlife safaris

The western Uganda wildlife safari offers different wild animals which are found in the different National park destinations in western Uganda. There is a hug diversity of wild animals that can be seen on your wildlife safari including, elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, leopards, warthogs, spotted hyenas, Uganda kobs, giraffes, zebras, oribis, Topis, duikers, water bucks, cheetahs, jackals among others.

Wild life safaris in western Uganda are done in Queen Elizabeth National park in western Uganda stunning the districts of Kasese, Kamwenge and Rubirizi. Queen Elizabeth National park is the second biggest National park in Uganda with variety of wild animals like elephants, lions, antelopes, hippos, crocodiles, impalas, Elands and so on which are normally sighted during game drives, primates like chimpanzees, monkey species like black and white colubus, vervet monkeys, olive baboons, L’hoest’s monkeys, civet monkeys among others.

There are several sectors in the different parts of Queen Elizabeth National park where wild animals can be sighted including Mweya peninsular, Kasenyi plains, Kazinga channel, Kyambura game reserve, Maramagambo forest, Kalinzu forest and Ishasha sector which is famous for tree climbing lions.

Wildlife safaris can also be done in Lake Mburo National park located in Kiruhura district which approximately 244 km from Kampala. Lake Mburo is the smallest savannah park in Uganda famous for wildlife viewing. Lake Mburo is home to over 68 animals including zebras, impalas, Topis, Elands, giraffes, Uganda kobs, buffaloes, bush bucks, leopards, hyenas, jackals among others. However it is important to note that there are no elephants and lions in Lake Mburo National park.

Wildlife safaris are done in Semuliki National situated in Bundibugyo district at the border with Democratic Republic of Congo. Semuliki National park also is home to over 60 mammal species including African elephants, leopard, Mona monkeys, buffalos, hippos, African civet among others that are seen during game drives in the park.

Murchison falls is another destination for wildlife safaris and game viewing. It is the largest National park located in north western Uganda covering an area of 3840 square kilometers. The vegetation of Murchison falls National Park is made up savannah, riverine forest, woodland which shelter several animal species like elephants, lions, leopards, Rothschild giraffes, chimpanzees, kobs, hartebeests, hippos, oribis among others that are viewed the game drives.

Boat safaris

Western Uganda is one of the best places for boat safaris and there is popular destination for boat cruise including boat cruise on Kazinga channel in Queen Elizabeth National park.

Boat cruise on Kazinga channel. Kazinga channel is the longest and widest natural channel in Africa with the highest concentration of wild animals and bird species. There are over 400 bird species, elephants, buffaloes, hippos among others. The boat cruise on kazinga channel is done in the morning and afternoon for 2 hours, it is one of the activities that you cannot miss when you come to Queen Elizabeth National park.

Boat cruise on Lake Bunyonyi. Lake Bunyonyi is the second deepest lake in Africa after Lake Tanganyika with 29 islands. It is also known as a bird paradise because it hosts very many bird species where it derives its name Bunyonyi meaning “small birds” in the native language. There is boat cruise on lake Bunyonyi which offers memorable experiences especially cruising to the different island with different historical back ground like the punishment island where the bakiga girls who got pregnant before marriage were taken in isolation to die, then the Akacuraniko which means upside down and many others with their own history that also shelter many wild animals, birds and primate species.

Boat safari on Lake Mutanda. A visit to Lake Mutanda is an interesting adventure that cannot be missed on your safari to western Uganda. The lake has many interesting activities that can be engaged in on your visit for a boat cruise especially after gorilla trekking in Bwindi impenetrable National park. The activities include nature walks, birding, game viewing among others.

Cultural safaris

Cultural safaris in western Uganda are a component because Uganda is a culturally diverse country with over 54 tribes. When it comes to cultural safaris in western Uganda Queen Elizabeth National park is the best place to visit with several cultural groups like Nyanzibiri community cave which means 2 lake in the native language, Leopard village located close to muhokya village managed by the socio economical management that promotes culture and wildlife conservation. Those who tour the leopard village have a chance to visit the traditional huts of Basongora, Bakonzo and Nyabindi ethnic groups then kikorongo women community where you enjoy songs, dances, fire making, visit the Kikorongo African art and craft workshop and learn about weaving baskets among others.

A visit to the Batwa community deep in Bwindi and Mgahinga forests. The batwa trail and batwa experience are one of the major cultural activities that cannot be missed on your cultural safari to western Uganda. Learn about the batwa people also referred to as the people of the forests that co-existed with the wild animals before they were evicted after gazetting their areas as national parks. Learn about their way of life as hunters and gathers, enjoy their traditional dances, hand craft making and so on. You can go for the batwa trail in Mgahinga National park of batwa experience in Bwindi impenetrable National park

Visit and encounter the fascinating cultures of Toro on western Uganda cultural tour. Learn about the “Empaako ceremony” which involves giving pet names to the children at birth. The pet names include Akiiki, Amooti, Adyeeri, Ateenyi, Abwooli, Acaali among others, visit the King’s palace overlooking Fort Portal town where the king resides. There is the Karambi tombs where the Toro kings are buried that is visited during your cultural safari in western Uganda.

Mountain hiking safaris

Hiking mountain Rwenzori in western Uganda is the best experience you can have on your safari in western Uganda. Mountain Rwenzori is the highest block mountain Uganda and third highest in Africa after mountain Kilimanjaro in Tanzania at 5895 meters above sea level, mountain Kenya in Kenya at 5199 meters above sea level then mountain Rwenzori at 5109 meters above sea level with the highest peak known as margherita.

Hiking Mountain Rwenzori is done in seasons, which are from January to March and June to October. Usually January to March is too cold compared to June to October where there are higher chances of encountering snow at the peak.

Western Uganda is a great destination in Uganda where you can go for your different fascinating safaris like gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, boat safaris, cultural safari among other which offer you great experiences on your safari.

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Travel Tips

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Renting a Car

Many people turn to car rentals as their best ground transportation while on a vacation, business and political engagements. But sometimes they end up having some misunderstandings between them and the car rental agency and also they may have to pay more money for the car hire services since they have violated the agreement. This results to customers cursing car rentals services. Some people make these mistakes ignorantly while others are just careless or reluctant.

These are the commonest mistakes made by travelers on their car rental services.

They forget to check the condition of the car yet this is a must thing to do on car rental services. The traveler has to check the car before taking for his/her vacation. One is supposed to check if there are some damages and dents on the car and also should check the mechanical condition of the car. It is recommendable to take pictures of the car. This helps one to know which damage she/she is liable for in case one happens. But sometimes, travelers make a mistake of not checking the car thoroughly and end up arguing with the car provider about the damages that may happen to the car i.e. everyone denying the liability of the damages.

Some travelers do not read the terms and conditions carefully. This is the commonest mistake people made on car rental services. Some people do not take a keen eye on some clauses of the car hire agreement and of which these can make them pay more for the car hire services like limited mileage clause, early return and return fuel refilling clause. You have to read the agreement so carefully and do not miss out a single clause because if you go against it, you are likely to pay a big premium for compensation.

Do not search on the internet for the best car rental services. Some people just use the car hire services that they come across other than making some research on the internet to get better deals. There are so many car rental companies offering good services at affordable rates on the web. When one does not use the internet is more likely to get cheated on the prices since he/she might not know the standard price of certain car rental services and end up paying much more money on low priced Uganda car hire services.

Furthermore some people only use the internet to find car rental services leaving out checking offline. Although internet has the best deals, endeavor to check offline too. It is best to check both online and offline, you never know the car provider might have forgotten to update his/her website yet when you go the offices physically you might land on a better deal.

If the above mistakes are put in the mind and amended, the traveler can have the best car rental deals which are comfortable, reliable and safe and pocket friendly.

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Travel Tips Trip Planner

Common Mistakes Made by Customers When Booking Car Rentals

Many people turn to car rentals as their best ground transportation while on a vacation, business and political engagements. But sometimes they end up having some misunderstandings between them and the car rental agency and also they may have to pay more money for the car hire services since they have violated the agreement. This results to customers cursing car rentals services. Some people make these mistakes ignorantly while others are just careless or reluctant.

These are the commonest mistakes made by travelers on their car rental services.

They forget to check the condition of the car yet this is a must thing to do on car rental services. The traveler has to check the car before taking for his/her vacation. One is supposed to check if there are some damages and dents on the car and also should check the mechanical condition of the car. It is recommendable to take pictures of the car. This helps one to know which damage she/she is liable for in case one happens. But sometimes, travelers make a mistake of not checking the car thoroughly and end up arguing with the car provider about the damages that may happen to the car i.e. everyone denying the liability of the damages.

Some travelers do not read the terms and conditions carefully. This is the commonest mistake people made on car rental services. Some people do not take a keen eye on some clauses of the car hire agreement and of which these can make them pay more for the car hire services like limited mileage clause, early return and return fuel refilling clause. You have to read the agreement so carefully and do not miss out a single clause because if you go against it, you are likely to pay a big premium for compensation.

Do not search on the internet for the best car rental services. Some people just use the car hire services that they come across other than making some research on the internet to get better deals. There are so many car rental companies offering good services at affordable rates on the web. When one does not use the internet is more likely to get cheated on the prices since he/she might not know the standard price of certain car rental services and end up paying much more money on low priced car hire services.

Furthermore some people only use the internet to find car rental services leaving out checking offline. Although internet has the best deals, endeavor to check offline too. It is best to check both online and offline, you never know the car provider might have forgotten to update his/her website yet when you go the offices physically you might land on a better deal.

If the above mistakes are put in the mind and amended, the traveler can have the best car rental deals which are comfortable, reliable and safe and pocket friendly.

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Places to Visit

5 Amazing spots for Chimpanzee Tracking in Uganda

Of all destinations to visit in East Africa, Uganda is one of a kind. With a diverse range of attractions, Uganda delights visitors with a number of things from favorable climatic conditions, impeccable hospitality services, and accessibility.

For first-timers, a trip to East Africa wouldn’t be complete without this center of natural wonder. That’s why it is easy to understand why even most customized safaris to Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo include a few days to Uganda.

Travelers have different interests, some come for the big game, Mountain hiking, Gorillas and others come for the man’s closest relatives – the chimpanzees.

For all primate enthusiasts, there is a lot to relish if you choose Uganda as your first stop for a once in a lifetime primate experience. Below are the top spots to include in your Uganda safari so that you enjoy spectacular chimps’ encounters in Uganda.

Kalinzu Forest Reserve

Kalinzu Forest Reserve is one of those untouched destinations that travelers often visit for Chimpanzees while in Uganda. This reserve is home to a range of primate species including chimps, blue monkeys, velvet, baboons, black and white Colobus monkeys. Kalinzu has a community of chimpanzees that are fully habituated and open to tracking excursions. Though Chimpanzee tracking is the main activity that draws adventurers.

Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest National Park is termed as the primate capital of Uganda. This forest park is inhabited by thirteen primate species including the chimpanzees. Other primates are grey-cheeked mangabey, red-tailed monkey, olive baboon, bush baby, red-tailed monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys. The main attraction for this park is chimps tracking, where a large number of chimps are open to public viewing. One can enjoy a both normal (last for 2 hours) and chimps habituation experiences (lasts up to 6 hours)

Budongo Forest Reserve

Budongo is situated in the northwestern part of Uganda – part of the Murchison Falls conservation area. It has two major tourist sites that include Kaniyo Pabidi and Busingiro Ecotourism site. This reserve is known as a chimp’s habitant. Visitors to the forest engage in Chimpanzee tracking and forest walks.

Kyambura Gorge

Kyambura gorge sited in a valley is home to about sixteen habituated chimpanzees which are always available for the primate lover. Although they are rarely seen mostly in the dry season. In addition to chimp tracking, the gorge offers stunning views of vast landscapes and a few streams.

Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Ngamba Island was mainly established to provide habitat to a number of rescued and orphaned chimpanzee primates. It is currently home to over 49 chimpanzees and can only accessed by a boat. Visitors to this protected area participate in chimpanzee feeding, care giving and volunteering.

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Trip Planner

Uganda Road Requirements For Vehicles and Drivers

By East African standards, Uganda major roads are generally in good condition. Surfaced roads radiate out from Kampala, running east to Jinja, Busia, Mbarara Tororo, Mbale and Soroti, south to Entebbe, southwest to Masaka, northwest to Gayaza and Kayunga (and on Jinja). As a rule, however, Uganda, un surfaced roads tend to be very variable from one season to the next, with conditions likely to be most tricky during the rains and least so towards the end of the dry season. Even in this generalization, an isolated downpour can do major damage to a road that was in perfectly good condition a day earlier, while the arrival of a grader can transform a potholed 4×4 track into a road navigable by any salon car.

Driving in Uganda is interesting, a bit more challenging than other East Africa and Southern Africa countries. You definitely need to be a defensive driver. During yourself drive, just drive defensively when busses and minibus-taxis are around as their drivers are crazy. These are now the main hazard on Ugandan roads aside from unexpected potholes. Minibus-taxi drivers in particular have long been given to overtaking on blind corners, and speed limits are universally ignored except when enforced by road conditions.

As a big threat as minibus-taxis these days are the spanking new coaches that bully their way along trunk routes at up to 120km/h. You will be overtaken by big buses carrying over 70 passengers travelling at excessive speeds, oncoming traffic appears to be heading straight at you. People pass in curves, on a hillside and each day one reads of accidents that result in loss of lives and sometimes in great numbers. Keep an eye in the rear-view (driving) mirror and if necessary pull of the road in advance to let the closing loony past. Other than them you won’t see much traffic outside of Kampala, except on the road to Jinja and the Kenyan border.

The best thing however is to hire a car and a driver, and not just any but a well maintained vehicle and a safe driver that follows the rules.  Not easy to find either one of those. We hire only the best driver guides who have been to almost every corner of east Africa and know the twists and turns of every safari destination, – and feel a concern for the well being of our client. Driving at night can drive you mad and you should avoid the habit of driving without lights. Most Ugandans have this habit of driving without lights.  To be more perfect, hire a vehicle and a driver and enjoy your road trip in Uganda and east Africa as a whole. You will meet lots of very friendly and helpful people. If you are unfortunate enough to have a puncture remember to get out of the way of the rush of local people wanting to help change the wheel for you. Drivers in Uganda are very aggressive and keep you on the edge of your seat. Though I’ve mainly been around Kampala, so of course driving in the city is much more intense than in the rural areas. If you do plan to drive definitely have someone go with you for the first few drives, as driving on the left side, and amidst tons of minibus taxi’s and motor scooters is crazy. Overall the people are welcoming and helpful if you do happen to need help.

If you hire a decent car you probably won’t have any breakdown problems, fuel is available all around the country and there might be an occasional roadblock at Owen Falls Dam, Jinja, and a customs one on the way to the southwest. No one will try and solicit a bribe from you, unlike some other countries. Fuel is expensive in Uganda – the equivalent of around US$1.4 per litre for petrol and slightly less for diesel. If you are arriving overland its worth stocking up before you enter the country.

Contact us for the kind of car of your choice either on line or by directly visiting our offices. All our rates are fully inclusive of insurance, local taxes on unlimited mileage basis. Our company considers value for money and also covers great rates and outstanding customer service.

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Safari Guide Travel Tips

5 Steps to Booking a Uganda Safari Online

Planning a memorable Uganda safari can be a night mare wondering where to start from and not sure how it will go. In this article we shall give a highlight of what is necessary for a memorable safari.

Search for a Trip

Make friends with Google and get to a search engine to find a find a safari agent. The best way to search is to include specifications and key word, let say gorillas safari in Uganda, a 4 day safari in Uganda. This key word will help you bring related articles and safari companies that you will be likely to choose from.

Make a choice among the appeared searches, choose as many as you can and search about by visiting their websites, check to see if they are functional and up to date with their contact numbers and Google map directions.

Send an Enquiry

Send an inquiry to each of your selected tour operators by filling in the forms on their sites. The forms usually include names, nationality, package activity, and then your budget for safari. This helps the tour consultant t know what the client wants and will answer in according to the need. Due to difference in time zone, the reply may not income instant but will surely come if the site you inquired on is operating.

Compare the Offers

Compare the packages and cost each safari tour has presented and gage with your expectation and means. There will always be a difference in price but it’s good to consider average in the same price range not to high and not too low.

Compare the accommodation, look through all the listed accommodation and check out their facilities on their websites. Accommodation   is usually grouped in classes, budget, midrange and budget. This will also help you in determining a memory safari. Good accommodations gives comfort and make you enjoy your stay.

Narrow Down with a Local Tour Operator

Follow the tour operator you have selected on plat forms like safari booking, Trip advisor for other information like reviews from the previous clients. Bad reviews about the service provided, scam of money should help you narrow your choice of tour operator.

Check for membership, registered and licensed tour operators should be members of the tourism association, for example Association of Uganda tour operators, TUGATA ,UCOTA, UTA, Atta and so many other related association. Registered members are easy to track through such associations.

Compare the relationship you have  attached to the tour operator you selected, for this you have to base on the quick response and how knowledgeable how the tour consultant is, the many options one on suggesting for you to have for a memorable safari. A safari is not alone about wild life there other activities you can engage.

Make a Decision & Book

Make a decision on the tour operator to take on for your memorable safari, after the all the precautions and the steps you have taken, of course there is one lucky tour operator who has satisfied your inquiry with your budget and expectation. Feel free to place your confirmation mail.

Await your memory safari by making a payment. Once you confirm a safari you are then required to make a deposit of 30-70% of the total cost to help in buying permits and securing accommodations.

Depending on your arrangement and communication with the tour operator, you can pay by credit card, direct transfer to the company account, pesapal or by cash on arrival.

Categories
Places to Visit

5 Best Destinations for Family Safaris in Uganda

Many wonder where to go and enjoy great times and moments, get nice photo shots  with friends and family but Uganda is one beautiful country in Africa for fantastic family holidays that  impact lives. Uganda is full of stunning views and wildlife whether you are in the game reserves or looking around at the nearby surrounding. The best part of Uganda family tours is that everyone is always active no matter the age. Make sure you head to Murchison falls, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi forest, Kidepo Valley, and Kampala city.

Attractive Murchison falls

It’s well worth to part with a few dollars for a ride on the might falls of the Nile, visit the top of the falls, start the day with a morning game drive and also end it with an evening one. The largest wildlife park in Uganda also a finest Uganda wildlife safari park features all you need for a perfect family holiday in Uganda. Nature is all over, wildlife in plenty, beautiful views, cool breeze, relaxing leisure ambience, primates, birds, good equipped lodges and hotels among others.

Bwindi Forest National Park

Some travelers think visiting Bwindi forest when you not above fifteen year of age aren’t worth because you won’t track mountain gorillas the main park attraction. However, there are several tour activities that the children can do when the elder ones go for gorilla trekking in the jungle forest. How about a nature walks through the forest and sees other park wildlife, or a tour to the park waterfalls. The entire park is simply stunning and it captures the tension of every visitor to Uganda. Be one of the few to explore the wonderful jungle forest with friends and family.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

It’s hard to take to take eyes off Queen Elizabeth National park when it comes to Uganda family tours because is just too much to enjoy together as a team. Imagine a moment close to hippos and crocodile on the Kazinga channel, a nice game drive to see tree climbing lions of Ishasha, the Equator caption, watching hug elephants move in groups and spotting various wildlife species in the park. But if you feel like tracking the chimpanzees, Kyambura gorge and Kalinzu forest reserve will offer you the very best chimpanzee safari experience in Africa. As per the name “Queen”, Elizabeth is simply the finest place to enjoy a family tour in Africa. The park has several accommodations facilities with good family units so no need to worry about where to stay.

Kidepo Valley National Park

The only place in Uganda to enjoy game viewing all day both in the park trails and at your lodge of residence. The park boarders Masai Mara Kenya so wildlife is in plenty. Also the Karamajong culture makes every smile looking at how they live dress and dance. If you planning for a family safari tour in Africa and you want your family to have a clear glance at attractive wildlife especially the Big five, Kidepo Valley National Park is your place to be in Uganda. Kidepo is one of the great game reserves in Africa and it has always been a place for wonderful wildlife safaris.

Kampala city

Kampala Uganda capital has various fun tour activities for all people young and elderly. From the amusement parks to the night life and many various cultural and religious sites. Don’t miss a chance to spend time with your family in the famous children play grounds, Wonder world, Freedom city, garden city roof top and many others.

Categories
Trip Planner

Why Take a Uganda Safari this November?

Don’t postpone your dream Uganda gorilla tracking tour for any reason because the perfect time is now in November when great discounts and deals run in hotels and park entrance fees. November is the best shoulder time for budget travel and backpacking in Uganda the pearl of Africa. Most destinations and are less crowded and cheap offering great services at all through at affordable rates. It’s a great time to hit the road, in fact no rains as it was expected making it the better time to explore the interesting places and attractions in the pearl of Africa. Travel is by chance but choosing a destination is by choice so if Uganda is on your bucket list, just make it happen because finding another perfect time will take a couple of months.

Uganda is a wildlife lovers paradise with mountain gorillas, hippos, elephants, rhinos, which makes travelling to Uganda very practical. Many spend one – three weeks exploring the country but a Uganda trip to Murchison falls National park, Queen Elizabeth national park, Bwindi forest, Lake Bunyonyi, Ssese island,and Jinja source of Nile for Rafting and Bungee jumping adventure is highly recommended to travelers with enough time to discover the magical land of nature.

Discounted Gorilla permits and hotels for all trips across the country giving wanderlust a stress free vacation full of adventure and excitement. Imagine saving $150 USD on the gorilla permit a lone, how about the $10 USD off your night accommodation and sometimes you sleep free if you spend more than 3 days in a hotel. Did you know that this can only be found in Uganda and it’s the wanderlusts that enjoy the discount opportunities? You’re running out of time to book your dream Uganda safari to any part of the country yet there are a few days left to end the month of November.

Many have been to Uganda in the same travel times and have always had a great holiday experience than what they expected. Despite the few rains but the country remains beautiful and incredible and the roads are passable because it usually shines immediately. Let no rain imaginations should stop you from visiting Uganda in November because for the past three years we have very little rains in November to change of season so that isn’t a reason any more. You can get luxury for less staying in high class hotel at a low cost something you can’t have during other months of the year. Room for negotiation with service providers is very broad since the season isn’t that busy.

There is also plenty of hidden attractions to explore for free and without entrance fee and some places are open to travelers at this period of time in order to encourage more travel and tourism in the country. Gorilla racking tours should reach record highs this month travelers should start buying gorilla tracking permits and also booking gorilla trips to Bwindi forest.

Uganda has a number of world heritage sites and among them is the most visited Bwindi forest a home to half of the world remaining mountain gorillas. Start being among a smart travelers and take advantage of the discounted travel month in Uganda. However, looking at the best time to visit Uganda month by month November is the best for wildlife viewing, gorilla tracking, chimpanzee trekking, Birding and many others. Am one of those who have been in Uganda for gorilla trekking in November and found the time very benefiting and heavily discounted in all aspects. Experience holidays in Uganda like you live there by embarking on the most fantastic Uganda tour with in group or sole.