There are two parts the define what to expect on a Uganda safari; the things to do and the things to expect while exchanging in the different safari activities Uganda has to offer. Below are some of the things you should expect to do on a Uganda safari.
View Mountain Gorillas – it’s the top tourist attraction in Uganda and East Africa at large. Gorilla trekking is all year activity in Uganda but dry season is the best to trek Gorillas when the trails are dry. For more information, many travelers are seen on Uganda Gorilla safari during drying dry season from December to February and June and July. Gorilla trekking is done in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park which are situated in far south western Uganda. Currently, Uganda Gorilla permit cost US$700 (FNR), US$600 (FR) and UGX250,000 (EAC).
Meet chimpanzees – While on Uganda safaris, expect to encounter chimpanzees in their natural habitats. Uganda is endowed with five natural destinations for chimpanzee trekking, they include Kibale National Park, Toro- Semuliki game reserve, Kyambura Gorge, Kalinzu forest and Budongo Forest however, you can also meet chimps in captivity at Ngamba island chimpanzee sanctuary and Uganda wildlife Education centre (UWEC). Chimpanzee viewing is the second sought after Gorilla viewing and its more fascinating to meet both.
Meet “The Big 5 animals” – Uganda is among the few nations protecting the big 5 animals. The big 5 animals include Elephants, Lions, Buffaloes, Leopards and Rhinos. While on Uganda safari, visit Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo valley National Park, Semuliki National Park and Lake Mburo National Park to meet elephants, lions, Buffaloes and Leopards however, the white rhinos can only be found at Ziwa Rhino sanctuary which is situated in Nakasongola district – along the way to Murchison Falls National Park.
Enjoy game drive in savannah glass land and woodland. In Uganda, Savannah Park include Kidepo Valley National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo National Park and Semuliki National Park. While on Uganda safaris, expect to do game drive to see elephants, lions, leopards, Giraffes, antelopes, water bucks and bush babies among others. Game drive involves driving through the park to see a variety of animals, birds, water bodies, relief features and many others.
Meet the tree climbing lions – this is a unique specie of lions in Uganda. The tree climbing lions are found in Queen Elizabeth National Park and Ishasha sector. The tree climbing lions rests in tree branches and after catching their prey, they climb trees to feed from the tree branches to outsmart their opponents.
Things to Expect While on A Uganda safari
Below are some of the things you should expect while engaging in the different activities on you Uganda safari;
Rainfall
It is often said that Uganda has two seasons; a dry season and wet season. However whether you are traveling in the dry season or wet season, expect to see some rain showers. It is important to note that it rarely takes more than two weeks without a rain shower in Uganda.
Paved Roads
75% of your Uganda highway transfers will be spent on paved roads. 90% of your offroad transfers that also include game drives will be spent on rough roads. The quality of the rough roads will vary according to the weather. On a rainy day, expect some parts of the rough roads to be impassable.
Temperature
Uganda’s temperature can be classified into three. Southern western Uganda is the coldest part of Uganda with average temperature of 21 degrees. Central and Eastern Uganda has an average temperature of 25 degrees while northern Uganda is the hottest with an average of 29 degrees.
It is recommended to carry a fridge if you are visiting northern Uganda. A coffee making machine would also come in handy.
Prices
Expect to be charged relatively higher for products and services in Uganda. You will need the help of a Ugandan to get the actual prices. Alternatively, buy from grocery stores or supermarkets that already have price tagged items.
Ugandan People
Ugandans are very hospitable people. Kingdoms are very secretive while the regular people have very limited boundaries. They usually allow foreigners to become part of their inner circle. They are willing to share any details in case you ask them any questions but above all, it is very hard for the to admit that they do not know something!
