Wildlife viewing and Birding tips in Uganda - Uganda Safaris

Most of Uganda's visitors come mainly for wildlife viewing and birding,therefore it is necessary to know the specific places that a visitor should put his/her emphasis on.

Wildlife viewing
For visitors who are interested in wildlife Safaris in Uganda,there are only 8 national parks in Uganda that offer wildlife viewing opportunities and these are;Queen Elizabeth National Park,Murchison falls National Park,Lake Mburo National Park,Kidepo Valley National Park,Semuliki National Park,Mgahinga National Park,Kibale Forest National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Queen Elizabeth National Park has the greatest variety of mammals but there are no Giraffes at this park.However,Murchison Falls National Park has the larger mammals in greater concentration.
Both these parks have common wild animals like  elephants,hippos,buffaloes,kobs,bushbucks and on rare occasions,predators like the lion and leopard are seen.

Buffaloes at Murchison Falls National Park

Zebras and elands in Lake Mburo National Park has led to the popular visits to the park because its the only park in the south with them.But these elegant animals can also be found in  Kidepo Valley National Park.On top of the Zebras and elands,Kidepo valley has a wide collection of mammals including the cheetahs,kudus,ostriches,bat-eared foxes and many more mammals that are not found in other parts of Uganda.

Semuliki National Park is another park where game drive are enjoyed by visitors and they get to see over 63 mammal though most visitors mainly go for chimpanzee tracking.

Gorilla tracking is the major attraction for Uganda due to the presence of the hard-to find mountain gorillas.These gorillas are found in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park.Spend about an hour with these human-like mammals.Gorillas move a lot searching for food and therefore the visitor has to be equipped with the knowledge on how to track them.This explains why there are very my Gorilla Safaris in Uganda.
Unlike the gorillas,chimpanzees are easy to track because they don't travel a lot and they are see jumping on different tree branches.

Another adventurous activity that attracts tourists to Uganda is Chimpanzee tracking.These chimps are mainly found in Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park,Kibale Forest National Park and Murchison Falls National Park.A visitor can as well enjoy chimp tracking at Semuliki National Park that has the best viewing because of it's magnificent Savannah views.

It is advisable that you take  ranger with you on any game drive to protect you in case of any encounter. Usually these rangers brief visitors before setting off to the wild.
Travelling by road is the best mean of transport to use when going for game viewing because wild animals are easily seen from the car windows.

Birding in Uganda
Uganda has over 1045 bird species of birds (half of Africa's total bird population), and this makes it one of the best birding paradise in the world.These birds are splendid to look at and can spice up your birding safari to Uganda.
The country offers a wide collection of birds that visitors can watch including 25 Albertine rift endemics such as the African green broadbill and the handsome francolin.

Best time to visit Rwanda - Rwanda Safaris

Rwanda has a fairly temperate temperature that favours travel throughout the year.The country is near  the equator at a high altitude,which gives it a natural highland atmosphere and consistent temperature.Variations in the countries climate is due to the difference in the altitude or seasons but not regions.

One of Rwanda's hills

The northeast of Rwanda experiences more rainfall compared to other parts of the country.This is the area with most highlands including the Volcanoes.In other areas, climate does not fluctuate frequently month to month and this makes it steady all year around.

Rwanda has mainly 4 seasons that a visitor should know before planning a visit to this wonderful country.The highland areas are cooler than other areas that have a temperature of about 30 degrees Celsius,during daytime.
The capital city of Rwanda (Kigali) has an average temperature that is about 21 degrees Celsius.

Activities between March and Mid May
This is the time when Rwanda experiences a long rainy season which is unrelenting.This season is so serious in the highland areas.Gorilla Safaris during this season is not suitable but chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe area can workout.During this season chimp tracking is possible because the fruits in the forest ripen and the chimpanzees come out in large numbers to eat them.

Activities between  mid May and Mid October
During this period,it is always a dry season in Rwanda and it is the best time for gorilla trackers to visit the country.Gorilla tracking during this time is easy and it is mainly carried out in Volcanoes National Park.
Game viewing is also recommended during this time because wild animals converge at the water sources during day so as to take water.Some of the animals to see in Rwanda at this Time include;Buffaloes,golden monkeys,mountain gorillas and elephants.After taking water ( in the evening),the animals go back to their respective places where they stay and gorillas go back to the rainforest.

Activities between Mid October and November
A short rain period is experienced during this period and it is also known as a birding period.Most trees and plants flower during this period and so different birds gather to eat the fresh seeds.
A birding Safari is advisable during this period.Another activity that can be done during this season is taking photographs at the beautiful hills covered by flowers.The scenery at the highlands is magnificent.

Activities between December and February
This is a short dry season and it is also a suitable period for game viewing.Hiking safaris are also at a peak during this period plus mountain climbing.

Best times to visit Uganda - Uganda Safaris

Also known as the "the pearl of Africa",Uganda is a beautiful country that is well known for harboring the hard-to find mountain gorillas.

Clear view of Kampala city

Although the country has a warm climate throughout the year,there are specific times appropriate for visitors to come to this East African country.

The countries position along the equator leads to an insignificant seasonal temperature variations.A visitor should know Uganda's rainfall pattern before visiting and this is very vital for those interested in Gorilla tracking,Hiking,Birding and game viewing.

April,May,October and November are the wettest months and during this time,some activities such as camping are hard to practice.

It is on record that about 70% of Uganda's visitors are gorilla trackers and therefore there is need to know about the appropriate time to do the activity.Most itineraries drawn follow an established circuit between Kampala and the gorilla parks in the extreme southwest of Uganda.This is the area with the most density of the country's natural attractions and associated infrastructure.

A typical tour in Uganda starts from Kampala and heads west through Fort Portal to Kibale,where chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park is the main attraction.This can be followed by Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) that is found just at the foot of Rwenzori mountains.In the south of QENP,there is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park,mostly known for gorillas.

A gorilla at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Game viewing: 
In Uganda's Savannah parks, game viewing is at its best at the end of a dry season,when the wildlife concentrate around water sources to have a sip for cooling their bodies.This is during the months of February,March,September and early October.

Bird watching:
Birding in Uganda is best done between November and April when different migrant bird specie fly into the country.Birders seriously get bored during the extremely wet months between April and May.

Gorilla Tracking:
Gorilla trekking is best done during the 2 country's dry seasons,that is January and February  and from June  to September.

Nyungwe Forest National Park - Rwanda Safaris

Nyungwe Forest National Park extends for 1,000 sq.kilometers across the majestic hills in the southeast of Rwanda.The park is one of the oldest in Africa and its the largest block of the montane forest in central and East Africa

A bird at Nyungwe Forest National Park

The park's richness in floral diversity plus over 250 different types of trees,and a myriad of numerous flowering plants for example,the rare worldly giant lobelia and colourful orchids,makes it a desirable destination to tourists.

Nyungwe Forest National Park has over 13 primate species in total such as the human-like chimpanzees,handsome L'Hoest monkey,owl-faced monkeys,vervet monkeys,Grey-cheeked mangabey,olive baboon,Rwenzori colobus,Den't mona monkey,3 species of bush baby and different troops of the delightfully acrobatic Angola colobus.

The park is also a birding paradise with a wide collection of birds (over 300 bird species), among which 2 dozens are restricted to a few of the Montane forests on the Albertine Rift Valley.
One of the rare-to find bird but found at the park is the great blue turaco. This bird is not easily seen in Africa because it stays in specific places with specific conditions.It is a red and green bird that streams from tree to tree just like a psychedelic turkey.

Activities at the park
-Nature walks: walking through an extensive network of well maintained walking trails as you enjoy the beauty of the vegetation,i s one of the unforgettable adventures that he park provides.These trails lead to various waterfalls and viewing points in different corners of the park.
-Chimp tracking:this is done from the forest and its a guided activity.While tracking,several varieties of other smaller primate species are seen.
-Birding:serious birders may never want to leave Nyungwe Forest National Park due to the diversity of the bird species.With over 300 bird species,birders can spend more than 4 days just looking for some hiding birds.
-Taking photographs:One can take a beautiful photo with a chimp or in the trees of the forest.
Other activities include;scaling Mt. Bigugu,excursions to Lake Kivu and expedition to Kamiranzovu Marsh.

Accommodation at the Park
-Nyungwe Forest Lodge:
This is an Eco-lodge situated in the tea estate that overlooks Nyungwe forest.The lodge has comfortable rooms and health clubs.The rooms have en-suite private bathrooms with warm water.
-Gisakura Guesthouse:this is just 2 km from the park.

Alternatively,one can stay at Uwinka Rest House or ORTPN campsites.

Volcanoes National Park - Rwanda Safaris

Where is the park located?

Volcanoes National Park is found in the northwest of Rwanda,bordering Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda.
Also termed as the home for mountain gorillas,Volcanoes National Park has 5 of the 8 volcanoes of Virunga Mountains including;Bisoke,Gahinga,Sabinyo,Muhabura and Karisibi.

Brief history about the Park
Volcanoes National Park was first gazetted in 1925 and it started as a small park.This was the first National Park to be created in Africa.
The park kept on expanding and by 1929,it had expanded into the Belgian Congo for about 8090 sq.km.
The Park lost its glory during the Rwanda civil war in 1992 and its headquarters were destroyed.However in 1999,after the civil war,the park resumed and it has greatly improved.

Flora and Fauna at the Park
Fauna

A gorilla at the Park

Volcanoes National Park is well known for the hard-to find Mountain Gorillas.These gorillas are a key to the increasing number of visitors that visit the Park leading to an increase in Gorilla Safaris in Rwanda.On top of the gorillas,there are other mammals including the golden monkeys,black-fronted duiker,buffaloes,spotted Hyena and Bushbucks.
On rare occasions,a visitor may also see the elephants in the park.

The park is also a paradise for bird watching with a recorded 178 bird species.Among these,there are 13 species and 16 subspecies that are endemic to the Virunga and Rwenzori Mountains.

Flora
The park is blessed with a stunning collection of vegetation that varies considerably due to the large altitudinal range within the park.There is a montane forest that covers about 30% of the park.
The forest has rare tree species and it is one of the largest Hagenia Abyssinica forests.
The vegetation of Volcanoes National Park covers an area between 3500 to 4200 maters.and it is mainly on the humid slopes in the west and south of the park.

What are some of the activities at the park?
A visitor to Volcanoes National Park is exposed to numerous activities and these include; Gorilla tracking,Golden monkey visits,Mountain Climbing,Tour of Lakes and Caves,Visiting the tomb of Dian Fossey,Nature walks,Cultural walks,Game drives and Birding.

What are some of the accommodations at the Park?
Accommodations at Volcanoes National Park include:

-Mountain Gorilla Lodge:This Lodge is situated at the base of Mountain Sabinyo (the Virunga Mountains range),at a place known as Kinigi.The Lodge has 36 cottages and they all have en-suit bathrooms and fireplaces.The rooms are comfortable with hot water.

Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge

-Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge:Located in the foothills of Virunga,this Lodge has modern facilities that offer comfort.There are 2 guest suites,1 family complex and 5 cottages.All guest rooms and suites are strategicaly located to offer a wide view of the park.

-Virunga Lodge:This is an additional to the Volcanoes' eco-lodge and it is found on the stunning hillside offering great views of the park. The Lodge has 8 individual chalets that are strategically located to enable Lake and Volcano views.

Akagera National Park - Rwanda Safaris

Where is it found?
Akagera National Park is found in the East of Rwanda near Kibungu city.Covering an area of about 2500 square kilometers of Savannah the park has a magnificent view of the Kagera River that denotes the frontier with Tanzania.
The park is on Rwanda's border with Tanzania in the east and it is the most standing out site at the place.The park has rolling sandstone hills in the west that are cut by a narrow,deep valley.In the east,there are predominant swamps and flood-plains that are breathtaking.

What a visitor should expect at the Park?

Hippos in Akagera River

Akagera National Park is composed of wonderful touch of the wild life due to the presence of rare mammals that roam about the whole area.These mammals and birds are easily seen and a visitor can take clear photos with them.
Some of the wild animals that one cannot miss out on a Safari to this park include;elephants,zebras,buffaloes,bush babies,crocodiles, hippopotamus and many more.Sometimes visitors get a chance to see hiding animals at the park such as lions,leopards and the black rhinos.

Birding is another adventure that the park has to offer with over 150 bird species.These birds are well seen in the morning and evening as they fly few meters from the ground.The park is also known for harboring waterbirds that are rare to find.Some of the birds include;black-headed gonalek,heuglin's robin-chat, gorgeous lilac-breasted roller,giant horn bill,crested barbet, Ross's turaco and many more.

What are some of the activities carried out at the Park?
There are numerous activities that the park can offer and this include the following:
-Game drive:Get a chance to get close to the wild animals and even take photos with them on your game drive at the park.These game drives are guided and are organised both in the morning and evening.While on the drive,many wild animals are seen as they graze and pay in the Savannah.
Strong vehicles are used to get you through this East African wild.

-Birding;Presence of a wide variety of birds at this park offers birders a paradise to embrace.The rare birds that are seen flying and sailing on River Kagera,spices up the safari.

Other activities at the park include;Evening walks,cultural walks,nature walks and boat cruising.

Akagera Lodge

Where to stay 
-Akagera game Lodge:This is the only accommodation in the park.The Lodge is magnificent with great views of the park.At the front of the Lodge,there is a pool where visitors go for sunbathing and relaxing.The Lodge has comfortable rooms and modern facilities.

Alternatively,one can decide to camp at Akagera Camp site.This site overlooks the Akagera River and one can have a wonderful view of the Lake while at his/her tent.

How to get to the Park
The park can be accessed from  Kigali and this is about 12km which takes about 2 hours while using the road,while from Kibungo,it takes 1 hour.
It is advisable to use 4  by 4 vehicles while travelling to this park.

Kidepo Valley National Park - Uganda Safaris

Kidepo Valley National Park is found in the North Eastern corner of Uganda in Karamoja region ( remote region).The park is East Africa's most beautiful park.The park is on the border of Uganda and Sudan and Kenya.

Located about 700km from Kampala,Kidepo Valley National Park was gazetted as a national park in 1962 and today it is a home to over 85 mammal species and 476 species of birds.

Zebras grazing at Kidepo N.P

The park is isolated in the far North of Uganda but visitors that make that long journey through the wild frontier region,have an adventurous story to tell.The magnificent look and the profusion of big game has led to the world ranking of the park as one of the Africa's finest wilderness.
The Park's nomination as the Africa's leading national park 2013 by World Travel Awards,led to an increase in the number of tourists who visit the park.


Attractions at the Park
The diversity of both the mammal and the birds at the park,is the main reason for the great record of an increase in the number of visitors to the park.
The park has over 85 mammal species of which 25 are restricted to the park and Karamoja areas,such as the localized carnivores Bat eared fox,striped Hyena,Aardwolf,caracal,cheetah and hunting dog.Other special mammals at the park are;leopards,Black-backed and side-striped Jackal,Lions,and Hyenas.
The park also protects 5 primate species such as the Kivirondo bush baby that is endemic to the park.The park is also boasted with large mammals including the elephants,Giraffes,Zebras,Defassa water bucks,Elands,Cape Buffaloes,Jackson's hartebeest and the rare Klipspringer,Mountain Reedbuck,dikdi,lesser and greater Kudu.

The park is also a paradise for birding with over 476 bird species including 56 prey birds like the ostriches,Karamoja Apalis,Kori bustard,Abyssinian roller,Jackson's horn bill Egyptian vulture,Verreux's eagle owl and Pygmy falcon.Presence of these birds has led to an increase in Birding Safaris in Uganda.

Accommodation

Stunning Apoka Lodge

-Private Apoka Lodge:This Lodge is has comfortable rooms for guests who wish to have a wonderful time at the park.
-National Park Bandas:The bandas at Apoka lodge have beddings,hot shwers,mosquito nets,clean drinking water and a magnificent view of the park.
-Kakine Campsite:This has modern facilities that offer comfort to guests.

How to get there
The park can be accessed by using any of the 4 road routes  that are between 570 to 795 kilometers from Kampala, depending on the route used.
However,the park can also be accessed by charter flights.

Semuliki National Park - Uganda Safaris

Semuliki National Park is found in the extreme west of Uganda in Bundibugyo district.The park sprawls across the floor of the Semuliki Valley and it's along the Uganda and Democratic Republic of Congo border.

A bird at SemulikI National Park

The Ituri forest acts as an eastern extension for the Park. Ituri forest is one of Africa's most bio-diverse and ancient forest that has survived for more than 18,000 years.

The Park contains various features that are hard-to find in other parks and this explains why tourists enjoy making trips to this remote park.

Facts about the Park
Semuliki National Park was gazetted in October 1993 and it covers an area of about 220km squared.The park's topology is flat with gently undulating land form,that is 760m above sea level.
The streams and rivers that flow from the surrounding areas drain through the park.This is the reason why many areas in the park are flooded during the rainy season.

Attractions at the park
Birding Safars:The park is a wonderful destination for tourists due to it's diverse small animals,butterflies and birds.The recorded number of bird species is 445 and this is about 35% of Uganda's total.Some of theses birds at the park are hard to find elsewhere in East Africa like the horn bills and lyre tailed honey guide.

The park has 63 mammal species and among these there are 9 diurnal forest primates including the Chimpanzees (chimpanzee safaris/tracking),vervet monkeys,olive baboons and blue monkeys.
Other mammals found in the park include the buffaloes,beecroft's flying squirrels,blue duikers,pigmy squirrels, target rat,water chevrotain and fruit bat,elephants,leopards,sitatungas and crocodiles.

The park is said to have over 374 species of butterflies and months plus 47 species of forest swallowtails and charaxes.

A hotspring at the Park

Activities at the park
Making a journey to Semuliki National Park exposes you to splendid views of nature.The moment you get to the park,there are numerous activities that one can opt for including;
-Spot fishing.this is done along the river  Semuliki. Visitors are expected to come with their fishing facilities.
-Game drives-Both day and evening game drives are arranged at the park and this goes through the park.The visitor gets a chance to have a close glance of the wild animals plus taking photos.These drives are guided.
-Boat trip.Have a chance to see the magnificent hot springs situated in a tract of hot mineral swampland.Still on this trip,different birds are seen flying both high and near the water.
-Birding.The presence of numerous rare birds at the park makes it an ideal place for birders.
-Cultural walks.Meet and greet the local people known as the Batuku and the Batwa people,who occupy the area.These people have unique cultures that are interesting.

Accommodation
There are a number of accommodation places specifically in Fort Portal and Bundibugyo town where a visitor can stay and relax.The campsite at Bugama (about 3km from Sepaya gate) is another place where a visitor can stay.

How to get there
Semuliki National Park can be accessed by travelling from Kampala to Fort Portal via Mubende.This is about 300km.Alternatively,one can opt to pass through Masaka ,Mbarara and Kasese which is about 515km.This is a longer route but it enables one to view Kyambura Wildlife Reserve,Lake Mburo National Park,Queen Elizabeth National Park and Rwenzori Mountains National Park.

Mount Elgon National Park - Uganda Safaris

Mount Elgon National Park is found in Eastern Uganda in The "Masaba Region".The Elgon mountain that stands magnificently about 4,321meters  above sea-level,is one of the greatest attractions at the site.

Sipi falls

Mount Elgon first erupted more than 24 million years ago but at the moment,it stands as a dormant volcano.The 50km by 80km wide mountain is also referred to as the "Masaba" Mountain because of the neighboring local people called the "Masaba".
The Park is a great tourist destination in Uganda and it posses the largest surface area of any extinct volcano  in the world.The Park is fourth highest in East Africa.
Mount Elgon straddles to the Kenya border.
Wagagai is the highest peak on this Mountain with 4321m above sea level.

What are the great attractions at the Park?
The presence of a magnificent flora and fauna at this park has led to the increased number of Tourists that visit the Mountain.The mountain's slopes support  a rich variety of splendid vegetation zones.These Vegetation zones range from lush Montana,mixed bamboo belt forest, to open moorland.
The vegetation contains rear endemic plant species that are breathtaking from both short and long distances.This is accompanied by the everlasting wild flowers that make the place look adorable to guests.

Activities at the Park
Trekking:
For those visitors that are interested in trekking,mount Elgon offers an unforgettable adventure as you climb past the big rocks and caves.There are 3 trailheads leading to the mountain's peaks.One trail starts from Budadiri,the second trail starts from Sasa and the last one starts from Kapkwai.

Cultural Walks:
Meet the Bagisu and Sabiny people around this park.These people are generally subsistence farmers and they are well know for practicing annual circumcision ceremonies.These ceremonies are carried out to initiate men into adulthood.

Hiking:
Hiking at this Park exposes a guest to a variety of unique forest monkeys and small antelopes plus elegant buffaloes and elephants.

The beautiful Sipi waterfalls offer a unique touch to the hike as you watch the beautiful waters drift from upper to lower levels.

Camping:
The Park has 9 basic campsites to offer.These campsites are strategically located along the trekking routes.Visitors are expected to carry there own camping equipment.


Accommodation at the Park
A tourist can opt for any lodge or hotel that he/she wishes to spend a night.Some of the accommodations at the park include the International standard hotels found in Mbale town (Mount Elgon Hotel,Country home,Mbale Resort and Sunrise Inn) and up-market lodges within the park.

Mount Rwenzori National Park - Uganda Safaris

The Park is also referred to as "Mountain of the moon"and it's bisected by Uganda and DRC.The beautiful sceneries of the Rwenzori mountains are one of the key attractions that the Park has to offer.

A splendid view of mount Rwenzori

Location
Mount Rwenzori Na

tional Park is located in the south- west of uganda bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo.The Park covers an area of about 120 km long and 48 km wide.
The Park's location in the region of great views,Lakes and waterfalls,makes it one of the most beautiful Parks in Africa.

What are the attractions at the Park?
The Park's fauna is well known with over 70 mammal species and over 184 bird species.Some of the interesting mammals include the blue monkeys,colobus monkeys, Rock Hyrax,Leopards,Elephants,Chimpanzees and the three horned chameleon.
Get a chance to climb and see the different peaks on the mountain such as Speke and Margherita.

Tourist attractions
Most of the Tourists opt for central circuit trail that takes 7-9 days to complete.This trail exposes the visitor to all the great peaks on the mountain.However,there are other shorter trails that can be arranged on request.

Comfortable Lodges at the Park

Accommodation
There are numerous options as regards to accommodation at Rwenzori NP.One can decide to stay at Mweya Lodge and Jacana Lodge,for up market facilities.Alternatively,one can opt for mid rate Margherita Hotel or Rwenzori Base Camp.There are also African-styled huts at the mountain where guests can spend a night.

How to get there
From Kampala,one can either opt for air or road.By road,from Kampala head to Kasese through Mbarara town or through Fort Portal.Reach Nyakalengija (the park's headquarters) which is 25 km from Kasese town.
By air,book for a flight to Kasese Airstrip from Entebbe and then use the road to Nyakalengija.

Lake Mburo National Park - Uganda Safaris

Where id Lake Mburo National Park located?
The Park is located in western Uganda in a district known as Kiruhura.The Park stands out about 30 km from Mbarara district (largest city in the sub-region).The Park's location is approximately 240 km from Kampala.

Buffaloes and Zebras of Lake Mburo National Park

Facts about the park
Lake Mburo National Park is a magnificent place with all its part splendid with variety,interest and the colour that reflect the beauty of the Lake and the green surrounding.
The Park has sculptured landscapes with rolling grassy hills that are easily seen from different angles of the park.
The Park has permanent swamps and rich acacia woodlands that act as a play ground for some of the birds, that keep on meandering about the whole area.The Park is known for harboring hard-to find birds such as the white-winged warbler and the shoebill stork.
The Park is 26 sq.km and it is the smallest savannah National Park in Uganda.The park has different types of plants, surprising rocky outcrops,mosaic habitats and animals.

Attractions at the Park
Lake Mburo National Park is blessed  with a wide collecting of wild animals and birds.Among the animals that the Park harbors include;beautiful zebras,Kobs,Impalas and buffaloes.

The Crested Crane 

One of the greatest attraction at the Park is the wide diversity of birds.The Park has  surprising species of birds both local and Migratory birds.Some of the bird species at the park are;Black-billed  Barbet,Barefaced Go-away bird,Brown Parrot,Black bellied Bustard,Crested Crane,Emerald-wood dove,Nubian wood pecker,Rufuos chested swallow,Souther Red Bishop,white-winged warbler, shoebill stork Couser,Flappet larks,African-wattled Plover Rofous and Yellow-throated Long claw.

What are the activities carried out at the Park?
.Nature walks-Visitors can enjoy an adventurous walk through the Park and they admire the beauty.They are escorted by an armed guide.
.Boat trips-Taking a boat ride on Lake Mburo is one of those activities that will always reflect back in the visitor's minds.While on this trip,you can see a wide variety of animals and great views of the highlands.
.Forest walk-Through Rubanga forest and have great views of over 40 bird species and wild animals.
.Fishing-on Lake Mburo

Accommodation 
Some of the places where a guest can spend a night or two are;
.Lake Mburo Safari Lodge-
.Mihingo Lodge-
.Arcadia Cottages-
.Mantana Tented Camp-
.Rwoyo Rest Camp-has Tents and bandas plus a camping site at Mazinga Camp site

Kibale Forest National Park - Uganda Safaris

Where is the Park located?

Kibale Forest National Park is found in western Uganda in the south of Fort portal town.The Park is in the middle of the Congo basin wet Rain Forest and the drier East African forest.This location supports a rich array of tropical plants and animals from both areas.

What are the great attractions at Kibale Forest National Park?
The Park is a great concentration of different species of monkeys and the hard-to-find Apes in Uganda.
The Park has a wide variety of wild animals including the chimpanzees,elegant elephants,colobus monkeys and buffaloes.

The Park is also a home to numerous bird species including the great blue turaco,narina's trogon,scalt francolin,naped pigeons,blue throated roller and many more.

Both the animals and the birds are easily seen while in the park depending on the timing.Some birds are hard to see during day time because they travel for long distances in search for food.
Wild animals like the chimps and monkeys always hide in leaves of tall tress and keep on jumping from one branch to the other.
The beautiful grasslands at the park are breathtaking all day with birds meandering about the whole place.

What are some of the activities at the Park?
A guest at Kibale Forest National Park is exposed to numerous adventurous activities including;Nature walks through the forest,cultural tours,chimpanzee tracking and game drives.
Meet and greet the local people,and see how they are organised.
You can also take a scenic walk to and visit the Karambi Royal Tombs. Tooro kingdom's royal place.

Where to stay while at the Park?
There are may accommodations near and inside Kibale National Park,where a visitor can stay and at the same time enjoy the great views of the park.Some of the accommodations include;

Ndali Lodge;

This has 8 strategically located comfortable cottages.These cottages are well equipped with modern facilities,an airy bedroom,en-suit bathroom and an a private veranda that offers wonderful views of the park.

Primate Lodge

This Lodge has 8 unique safari tents with African styles.The tents are on raised platforms and a guest can stand at the veranda and have a complete view of the park.

Kibale Tented Camp

It is found just outside the park.It offers tents with en-suite facilities to offer comfort to guests.The tents are also eco friendly. A bar and a central dinning are other facilities found at the Camp.

Other Lodges at the Kibale National Park are;Mid Range Camps and Lodges,Montana Luxury Tented Camp and Rwenzori view guest house.

How to get there
From Kampala,you can take the road to Fort Portal and then to Kamwenge. From here,the park is just 12 km away.

Murchison Falls National Park - Uganda Safaris

What is Murchison Falls National Park?

This park came into existence in 1926 when it was gazetted by the Ugandan government with an aim of protecting a Savannah. The Park's falls are one of the greatest attractions that tourists come to have a glance at.The Park is bisected by the Victoria Nile and this causes a white water rapid that is so magnificent to look at.

Where is it located?
Murchison Falls National Park is found in the northwestern Uganda spreading inland from Lake Albert around Victoria Nile,where the Bunyoro escarpments merge into the vast plains of Acholi land.

What are the main Tourist attractions at the Park?
The unique Murchison Falls and the River Nile are the main attractions in this park,having a wide collection of aquatic animals such as the Hippos and Crocodiles.These are best seen when they come to drink water in the afternoon from the Nile.
The waterfalls offer a dramatic view to the tourists.The most appropriate site to view these falls is at the top where the site and sound of the crashing water make an unforgettable assault on the senses. 
Pabidi and Kaniyo Forests are other interesting attractions where visitors go for a nature walk,and get an opportunity to track the chimpanzees.
Birding is another activity that the park offers with over 100 bird species including the Ituri batis,white thi hornbill and yellow-footed catcher.
Consequently,the visitors can enjoy the Park's prime views of the Savannah Game area.This grassland wilderness is between the Victoria Albert Nile with splendid views.

Where to stay while at Murchison Falls National Park?
There are numerous lodges where visitors can stay while at this Park and these include;Red chilli Rest Camp,Kaniyo Pabidi Rest Camp,Nile Safari Camp,Para Safari Lodge and Simbiya River Lodge.
These Lodges are organised with modern facilities and are strategically located to offer great views to the guests.
In the neighboring town (Masindi town) there are also comfortable places to stay like the Masindi Hotel and Court View Hotel.

How to get there
When travelling by road,it is approximately a 5 hours drive from Kampala.This is about 306km from Kampala.Alternatively,one can use the route that passes through Budongo forest and get a chance to get see the splendid Lake Albert.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park - Uganda Safaris

Where is it located?
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is found in the southwestern corner of Uganda covering the northern slopes of the 3 northern most Virunga volcanoes (Mt. Sabinyo, Mt. Muhavura and Mt. Gahinga).
In the south,the Park is bordered by The Republic of Rwanda while in the west its bordered by Democratic Republic of Congo,about 15 km from Kisoro.

A Gorilla searching for food in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

What is the Park's size?
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is Uganda's smallest Park covering a small area of about 33.6 sq.km.

What are some of the wildlife and Birds that are found at the Park?
The Park protects around 76 mammal species including;black and white colobus, bush bucks,buffaloes,giant forest hogs, bush pigs,mountain Gorillas- Gorilla Safais,elephants,leopards,black-fronted duikers and a wide variety of bats,rodents,and many more.
The Park is also a home to over 115 species of birds recorded including the Rwenzori turacos,splendid francolins,western green tinker birds olive wood peckers and others.Most of these species can be well seen in the forested hillsides.

What to do while the Park?
There are very many activities that one cane experience while at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park including;
-Volcano climbing to the peaks of Ngahinga,Muhavura and Sabinyo.
-Gorilla tracking.
-Golden monkey tracking.
-Birding.search for different birds through Rugezi swamp,Sabinyo Gorge and Bamboo forest.
-Cultural Walks-meet the Batwa people with a unique culture.
-Nature walks.

Where to stay?
-Volcanoes Mount Gahinga Safari Lodge- It has about 7 rooms.
-Mount Gahinga Rest Camp-it
is near Virunga volcanoes and it has 7 cottages.
-Amajembere Iwacu Community Camp-strategically located at the starting point of Gorilla tracking.
-Travelers Hotel
-Blue Sky Hotel-has about 21 rooms and it is the best hotel in Kisoro town.
-Sabinyo Silverback Lodge
-Mountain Gorilla View Lodge.

How to get there
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is found in Kisoro district, in the southwest of Uganda about 540 km from Kampala.The journey to the Park takes between 8-9 hours while travelling by road.

Queen Elizabeth National Park - Uganda Safaris

Where is it located?
Also known as Uganda's most popular National Park,Queen Elizabeth National Park is found in Western Uganda spanning the districts of Bushenyi,Rukungiri,Kamwenge and Kasese. The Park's location is about 375 kilometers from Uganda's capital city (Kampala),that is when using the road.
In the Northeast of the park,lies Kasese town while on northeastern edge of the Park,lies Bushenyi.
The Park covers approximately 1996 km squared ( about 770 square miles) .

What are the seasons at the Park?
Generally western Uganda,where the Park is found experiences a dry season from June to September.During these months,most animals in the Park remain near the water simply because they want to keep on sipping  all day to cool their bodies.

A lion at the park

From January to February,the Park experiences a hot dry time and this is the best time to visit.
The rainy season is from March to May and October to December.

What are the attractions at the park?
The Park has a wide astonishing bio-diversity of both animals and birds.Approximately,the Park has 100 different types of mammals and 660 species of birds.The Park is said to have the world's largest number of Hippos and these are mainly at the Kazinga channel.Some of the other mammals at the Park include;crocodiles,buffaloes,Leopards,
warthogs,giant forest hogs,antelopes,Uganda kob,waterbuck,topi and elephants.
In the Northeastern part of the Park lies Kyambura George,a green territory with thick treetop canopies and vines.The whole adventure is spiced up by chimpanzees that chatter high up in the branches.These chimps are also found in the south of the Kazinga channel plus different monkey species.
The Park is also an adventurous place for birders and this explains why birders move from different parts of the world to come and have a glance at them.
Both animals and birds at Queen Elizabeth National Park are best viewed from a boat on Kazinga Channel.

Where to stay while at Queen Elizabeth National Park?
There are many Lodges in and around the Park where visitors can stay comfortably and these include;
Mweya Safari Lodge-This is found inside the Park and it offers numerous game viewing.
Kyambura Gorge Safari Lodge-located on the edge of Queen Elizabeth National Park and Kyambura Gorge.The Lodge offers a comfortable accommodation.
Katara Lodge-found in the Great Rift Valley offering views of the Park to the guests.
Ishasha wilderness safari-located in the southern sector of the Park.It offers quality lodging.
Ihamba Safari Lodge
Jacana Eco-Lodge
Hippo Hill safari camp
Simba safari camp
Bush Lodge

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park - Uganda Safaris

Why Bwindi Impenetrable?

The park was named "Bwindi Impenetrable" because of the dense cover hubs,shrubs and vines that cover the ground of the Park.These make penetration through the park hard in that one cannot see where he/she is putting his/her next step while walking.The Park is fairly dark even during times of day making it to look like it's hard to go through.Bwindi is mostly known for the rare Mountain Gorillas that have led to an increase in Gorilla Safaris in Uganda.

Where is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park found?

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is found in Southwestern Uganda on the edge of the Rift Valley.The park is in the Kigezi highlands adjacent to Democratic Republic of Congo boarder.The Park's location in Uganda's "milk Area" is an advantage to the Tourists as they are exposed to the long-horned cattle.

The Park is on a raised platform,all covered green which makes it so attractive from a distance.The fauna and flora of this 328km squared Park stands out from a long distance.

What are the attractions at the Park?

The Park is full of wonders of the wild due to its diverse collection of wild animals that roam about the area.The Park has one of the richest fauna communities in Africa with half the total population of Gorillas in the World.Apart from the Gorillas,there are over 250 bird species,7 diurnal primate species,200 butterfly species and over 120 mammals.

The Gorillas are mostly found in greener corners of the park as they try to look for food.They spend most of their time on trees jumping from one branch to another.

What is the climate and the best time to visit the Park?

Bwindi is always cold in the morning and at night with moderate temperature ( between 7-20 degrees Celsius). The coldest months are June and July ,while the wet season is from March-May and September-November.

Where to stay while at the park?

At Bwindi Impenetrable National Park,there are numerous accommodations where visitors can spend nights including;

-Bwindi Lodge;this is on the edge of Buhoma village near the Park in the west of Uganda.

-Gorilla Forest Camp;this is a luxurious permanent tented camp found in the forest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

-Buhoma community bandas and campsite-This is an attractive complex found in the woodlands facing a gallery near the Park's entrance.

-Volcanoes Bwindi Camp-this is located at about 500 meters inside the park.

Other accommodations include;Montana luxury tented camp,Bwindi travelers Motel Campsite,Bwindi view bandas and Nkuringo Gorilla Campsite.

How to get there?

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is in the Southwestern part of Uganda about 545km fro Kampala.Travelling by road is the easiest way to access the Park.
Travelling by air,board a plane to Kihihi and then proceed to the Park.

TRAVEL TO UGANDA AND RWANDA - Uganda and Rwanda Safaris

Uganda and Rwanda are both found in East Africa and these are one of the few countries in the World where mountain Gorillas are found.The hard-to find wild animals that are found in these countries are one of reasons of the frequent reception of both Uganda Safaris and Rwanda Safaris.This also leads to an increase in both Uganda Gorilla Safaris and Rwanda Gorilla Safaris.

In the past two years,these East African countries have experienced a rapid growth in the Tourism industry due to their serene environment,birds and wild animals.These animals are found in the in National Parks and reserves.

The political climate in these countries is stable and calm, instilling confidence in the visitors who travel from different parts of the world to come and look at the "human like"animals (gorillas).
Apart from the gorillas,there are other wild animals in these countries including;the Lions,Leopards,Elephants,Monkeys,Chimpanzees, Buffaloes,Crocodiles,Hippos,Antelopes,Snakes, Giraffes, Warthogs and many more.These countries are also habitats for different species of birds.

An unforgettable Safari to Uganda and Rwanda enables visitors to tour the following National Parks;

UGANDA
.Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
.Queen Elizabeth National Park
.Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
.Murchison Falls National Park
.Kibale Forest National Park
.Lake Mburo National Park
.MT Rwenzori National Park
.MT Elgon National Park
.Semliki National Park
.Kidepo Valley National Park

RWANDA
.Volcanoes National Park
.Akagera National Park
.Nyungwe Forest

A visit to Uganda and Rwanda can never be forgotten.