Category: Uganda Destinations

Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Valley National Park Safari Attractions, Location and Park fees 2024

Kidepo Valley National Park is located in the rugged, semi arid valleys between Uganda’s borders with south Sudan in the north west and only 5km from the eastern border of Kenya & 700km from Kampala. Gazetted as a national park in 1962, the park has a profusion of big game and hosts over 77 mammal species. Due to its distant location in the pastoral Karamojong natives, who are the “Maasai of Uganda” similar to Maasai of Kenya and Tanzania, it is referred to as the authentic African wilderness.

The park is one of Uganda’s largest national parks, with a total area of 1,442 square kilometers. The Uganda Wildlife Authority is in charge of running Kidepo National Park, which was founded in 1958 and declared a national park in 1962. It is distinguished by wide savannah grassland, rocky outcrops, and scattered Acacia trees. River Kidepo and River Narus, two seasonal rivers that provide water to the park’s wildlife, cross it as well. The rivers dry up during a protracted dry season, leaving a small body of water where all the animals congregates.

Even though Kidepo National Park is the only national park in the entire nation, it is still the best park. The greatest place for private Uganda safaris is a pristine tourist site that is less congested. With over 77 mother species present, the park is home to a greater number of rare and extinct wildlife species. Only in Uganda’s Kidepo National Park can one find numerous cheetahs. It is home to around 450 different bird species, including several ostriches and the largest flying bird on world, the kori bustard.

Due to its isolated location and separation from the Ugandan capital, the park is underutilized and less well known to visitors, making its value less accessible. The distance between the park and Kampala, the Ugandan capital, is 510 kilometers. In the northeastern region of Uganda, in the Kaabong area, is where you’ll find Kidepo National Park.

Accessing/getting to Kidepo national park

Along with a good road network, Kidepo National Park is accessible by air and by both road and road. The park is far away, but there are two ways to get there: one is via the northern route, which goes through Murchison Falls; the other is via the eastern route, which goes through Jinja, the capital of Adventure. Since the road network is weak after diverging off the main route, one must use 4WD to be safe, especially during the wet season.

To get to Kidepo Valley National Park, there are four different paths that one can take. Two of these roads come from the Eastern side, while the other two come from the Northern side.

Routes passing through the North

The quickest route is Kampala to Karuma to Gulu to Kitgum to Kidepo. The park is 571 kilometers away and can be reached in around 10 hours.
between Kampala, Karuma, Lira, Kotido, Kaabong, and Kidepo. The second shortest route, covering a distance of 705 kilometers, can be traveled in up to 12 hours.

The Eastern routes

It takes 12 hours to go 740 kilometers from Kampala to Mbale to Sironko to Moroto to Kotido to Kaabong to Kidepo. The River Nile, Sipi Falls, and many other tourist sites are located along this route, making it the most picturesque.
The second Eastern route goes through Kampala, Mbale, Soroti, Moroto, Kotido, Kaabong, and Kidepo. The longest tour, covering 792 kilometers, takes 13 hours.

The most popular routes are the Northern route for traveling there and the Eastern route for returning, with a stop at the Sipi Falls, or taking in the experience at Jinja and the Nile’s source. The trek can be divided into two halves by stopping briefly at one of the towns, preferably Gulu, or at the national park near Murchison Falls.

On the other hand, one can take a charter aircraft that takes around two hours from Entebbe or Kajjasi to Kidepo using Kampala Aeroclub or Eagle Aviation. Due to the park’s isolation, the government of Uganda is planning to turn the Lomej airstrip near Apoka into an international airport. This will cut down on travel time and make it simpler for visitors to reach the park since they may fly directly there from their home nations.

Attractions in Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo National Park, like the majority of national parks in Africa, is open all year round, however because to the park’s soil topography, the best time to visit is during the dry season. In the water catchment areas during the dry season, the grass is short and it is simple to see animals. Early in the morning, cheetahs can be observed sunning on top of the anti-hills. Even in the rainy season, storms do not last for very long, making it possible to carry out all activities even though 4WD vehicles are required.

Mammals

Kidepo National Park is home to over 77 different species of mammals, making it a biodiversity haven. With four of the African big five visible in the park and just rhinos absent, Kidepo is the ideal place to see wildlife. The park is the only place in Uganda to witness cheetahs, enormous lion prides, elephants, leopards, buffalo, giraffes, hartebeest, reedbucks, and many more animals. The watershed regions are always the finest places to look for wildlife, particularly in the dry season.

Birds  

Are you an expert birder looking for a place where you can quickly add more than 400 bird species to your list? The location you seek is Kidepo National Park. There is space for many different bird species in the large park with its varied vegetation zoning. The many habitats are essential to this unusual bird species. If you stay close to Apoka Rest Camp, you can go birding at your leisure. In Kidepo, this camp is regarded as one of the prime locations for birdwatching. Along the Narus river, in the Namamukweny valleys, and other places are good places to see birds. The most often sighted birds include the Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Purple Heron, Abyssinian Roller, Kori bustard, Pygmy Falcon, Violet-tipped Courser, Clapperton’s Francoli (found exclusively in Kidepo National Park), and Abyssinian Ground Hornbill.

Apoka Tourism centre  

All of the documentaries on the Kidepo National Park are available here at the information center. Additionally, it serves as the beginning point for all park activities. If you arrived by personal vehicle, guides are available. At this point, if you don’t have a car, assistance will also be provided so that you can either rent a car or, if space is available, join the group. Additionally, there are craft stores with tourist guides, trinkets, ice-cold beverages, and much more.

Kidepo valley and Kanangorok Hot springs  

The Kidepo Valley, where villagers travel to pick palm fruits, is located on the banks of the seasonal river known by the same name. Visitors enjoy coming here to interact with more people who are engaged in the local fruit picking industry. The Kanangorok Hot springs, which are 11 kilometers before the Kidepo river as one approaches the border, are another significant region along the river.

Mount Morungole

The 2,750-meter-tall Morungo mountain is located in Kidepo National Park. The two rivers that provide water for the park pass it. Given that the park’s elevation rises as one approaches it from the south, it is located in the southern portion of the park and serves as its boundary. Here, visitors can go hiking and see birds. Lomej Hills, which are located in the park’s center right next to the park headquarters, are one of the other hills there. South Sudan and Kitgum are divided by Lonyili Mountain. More bird species can be found here, along with certain primates like the Colobus monkey and montane forests.

 

Activities in Kidepo National Park

One of the Uganda National Parks that is enjoyable and offers a variety of activities is the undeveloped Kidepo National Park. Spend more time exploring the park and the adjacent distinctive local villages, which have much to offer our visitors.

The attractions of your visit to Kidepo National Park are listed below. If you are physically fit, do not miss hiking any of the nearby hills.

Birding  

One of the best places to go bird watching in Uganda is Kidepo National Park, which is situated in the far-off region of Karamoja. Your birding tour begins at the Apoka rest camp, which is located in an undeveloped area where birds are always visible. The only requirement is that you have enough time to enjoy your extensive list of bird species, which includes the ostrich, bee-eaters, vultures, kori bustard, common bulbul, African grey flycatcher, Karamoja apalis, white-bellied tit, black-headed plover, Bruce green pigeon, Fox kestrel, Abyssinian Ground bill, and Singing Bush Lark, to name a few. Near Narus or the Kidepo river, you can go bird watching along the Namamukweny valley of the Kidepo.

Game viewing

In the Kidepo National Park, game rangers accompany visitors on game drives. The gaming drives are all more enjoyable. With 77 species available, you will have the opportunity to witness rare mammals. You can view animals like jackals, leopards, elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalo, bush pigs, bush duiker, bush pigs, kobs, cheetahs, and many more with the assistance of the train ranger or an experienced driver-guide. Early in the morning, late in the afternoon, or even all day long, game drives are possible.

Hiking/ nature guide walks  

Hiking or nature strolls are two other enjoyable things to do in the Kidepo National Park. The park can also be strolled through at our leisure under the guidance of a game warden. You need to be physically fit for this. You can take a stroll through the well-known Narus Valley and encounter the IK tribe, one of Africa’s most distinctive inhabitants. Go to the Borassus palm forest to see how the villagers gather fruit for the production of palm wine. This is fantastic for birders since you can breathe in the clean air of Africa.

Cultural tours

Without seeing the local IK and other Karamajong residents, your tour to the Kidepo National Park will be completed. When you visit the distinctive cattle pastoralists in Kenya, the Maasai people, you will have more amusement. They take up the majority of Uganda’s northeast. The Lorukul Cultural Group is located outside the park and offers tours of the distant tribe’s culture.

Are you sick of hectic, congested tourist destinations? Then stop searching and visit Kidepo National Park to enjoy the best pristine land. It is a very secure and distinctive national park that allows you to experience the full scope of authentic African wildness.

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Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park Uganda Safari Tours, Attractions & Location

Murchison Falls National Park is found in the Murchison Conservation Area located in the northwestern side of Uganda in the Eastern African Rift Valley and its the biggest national park in Uganda covering a total area of 3,840 sq km. The Murchison Conservation Area is also home to Bugungu and Karuma wildlife reserves.

Murchison Falls National park is endowed with several attractions including over 76 mammal species with four members of the big five, the lion, the leopards, the elephants, and the Buffaloes. Other species in the park include bushbucks, Uganda kob, waterbucks and warthogs, giraffes, Jackson’s hartebeest, hyenas etc. Along the shores of the nile and within the waters you will see lots of hippos and crocodiles among other resident creatures. There also several primates in the Murchison falls national park including baboons and several monkey species. The Park is also home to over 450 recorded birds species including the rare shoebill stork and the 23 Albertine rift endemics given its location in the western arm of the east African rift valley.

The highlight of your tour in Murchison falls National Park is visiting the “Murchison Falls” a point along the Nile within the park where River Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge 8 meters wide. The launch trip up stream is very interesting and offers magnificent views of the falls and several wildlife species found along the shores including Buffaloes, Hippos, Crocodiles, waterbucks and birds. Our top tours are the 3 Days Murchison Falls Safari, 2 Days Murchison Falls Safari and the 4 Days Murchison Falls Safari The Murchison Falls National Park is a well-liked vacation spot with a range of lovely activities both in the southern and northern sides of the park

Murchison Falls National Park’s attractions include

Wildlife.

The national park that encircles Murchison Falls is home to a wide range of animal species. It is most popular for habiting four out of five big five Animals mammals such as Elephants, Buffalos, Lions, leopards, other animals like Rothschild giraffes, bushbucks, Hippos, Crocodiles, Waterbucks, Jackson’s hartebeest, warthogs, Uganda Kobs, bushbuck antelopes, Oribis, primates such as monkeys, blue monkeys, Red tailed monkeys, black and white colobus and among others.

Birdlife

With over 450 bird species, divided between water birds and open land birds, Murchison Falls National Park is a birder’s paradise and a fantastic location for birding safaris. The eastern grey plantain eater, herons, marabou storks, shoebill storks, hornbill storks, pied kingfishers, yellow-footed flycatchers, grey-crowned crowns, grey-headed coucals, and black-headed gonoleks are some of the species that they consist of. Blue-headed Coucal, Blue-naped Moosebird, Bluff-bellied Warbler, Black-headed Gondola, Black-headed Plover, Black-lored Babbler, and Black-headed Gondola

Murchison Falls

These magnificent waterfalls are also known as Kabalega Falls and are one of the main attractions in Murchison Falls National Park because of the historical significance of the fabled Kabalega, king of the Bunyoro nation. When Sir Samuel Baker and his wife Florence Baker made the first European visit to the falls in the 1860s, they named them Roderick Murchison in honor of an English geologist and member of the geographical organization. The name of the entire national park, which was created in 1954, was inspired by the falls.

On the Victoria Nile, they are about halfway between Lake Kyoga and Lake Albert. The river Nile’s surges pushed through a gap in the rocks to create the 7-meter-wide, 43-meter-tall Murchison Falls.

Budongo Forest

Another one of the attractions in Murchison Falls National Park is Rabongo Forest. Four square kilometers of it are covered with a thick forest. A section of an unmanaged forest, the woodland is a haven for birdlife. Several endangered bird species, such as the Ituri batis and the yellow-footed flycatcher, call the Rabongo woods home. Many primates live in the jungle, including blue monkeys, baboons, red-tailed monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys.

In the Budongo Forest Budongo Forest is a highly distinctive feature of the Murchison Falls National Park. Budongo Forest, located in the southwest of the park, is the greatest place to go on a safari to watch birds. There also reside numerous Ugandan monkey species. There are 800 chimpanzees and 360 different bird species living in the woodlands.

Paraa

A major draw for visitors to the Murchison Falls National Park Uganda is Paraa. The name is derived from the term Paraa, which in the native Luo language means “home of hippos”. Due to the abundance of safari hotels and lodges, Paraa is a well-known lodging area in the Murchison Falls National Park.

 

Murchison Falls National Park Uganda Activities

Game drives

In Murchison Falls, game drives are done in the morning and the evening. Thanks to this, visitors may see thrilling up-close views of a range of animal species. Excellent locations for wildlife observation include the Buligi Peninsular, the Delta region, and the southern portion of the park. It’s possible to see giraffes, warthogs, elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, bushbucks, Jackson’s hartebeest, oribi, and waterbucks while on a game drive, in addition to a wide variety of bird species.

Sport fishing

Along the stony banks of the Nile beneath Murchison Falls, in the Murchison Falls National Park, sport fishing is practiced. You can use a variety of sport fishing techniques at the Banks to catch fish species include tiger fish, tilapia, catfish, and Nile perch. These techniques include the use of hooks, spinning techniques, and casting lures.

Boat cruise

On the Nile, there is a boat tour of the Murchison Falls National Park available. Boat trips are available in the Murchison Falls National Park that travel both upstream to the base of the falls and downstream to the Victoria Nile delta, which reaches Lake Albert’s shoreline. Large concentrations of hippopotamuses, crocodiles lazing on the coast, and animals like elephants, buffaloes, and waterbucks sipping water along the shores may all be seen by boat passengers.

Chimpanzee trekking

Budongo Forest, which is found in the southern region of Murchison Falls National Park, is where one can go chimpanzee trekking. The most well-known activity in Budongo Forest is chimpanzee trekking. This activity is preceded very early in the morning by a briefing at the headquarters on the rules for chimpanzee trekking. You will be partnered with a habituated chimpanzee family to travel with and a park guide who is familiar with the forest’s paths after the briefing. It may take from 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on where the chimpanzees are.

Hot air balloon Rides

Dream Balloons provides hot air balloon safaris in the Murchison Falls National Park. The two sessions of this activity are the sunrise session, which begins at 5:00 am and ends at 6:30 am, and the sunset session, which begins at 4:00 pm and ends at 6:30 pm. Hot air balloon rides provide stunning views of Lake Albert, Murchison Falls, the surrounding wildlife, vegetation, and birds in the Murchison Falls National Park.

Park Entrance Fees

Adults: 25,000 UGX for East Africans, 45 USD for non-resident foreigners, and 35 USD for resident foreigners.

Children: East Africans must pay 10,000 Ugandan shillings, non-resident foreigners USD 25, and resident foreigners USD 15.

Vehicle: Taxes on cars registered overseas cost $10 USD, while those registered in Uganda cost 10,000 UGX.

Best time to visit Murchison falls National Park

You can visit Murchison Falls National Park any time of year. The dry season, which lasts from June to October and December to February, is the greatest time to come because there are fewer showers and less hazardous roads getting to the park. This provides wonderful opportunities to view wildlife and get stunning pictures.

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Mount Rwenzori National Park

In close proximity to Virunga National Park, Mount Rwenzori National Park is situated in the south-western region of Uganda, bordering the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Bundibugyo, Kasese, and Kabarole districts are included in the 386 square kilometer park, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.
The third-highest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania and Mount Kenya in Kenya, Mount Rwenzori, commonly known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” is located within Mount Rwenzori National Park. Marherita Peak, Mount Rwenzori’s highest summit, rises 16700 feet above sea level. On Mount Rwenzori, you may find peaks like Mount Stanley, Mount Speke, Mount Emin Pasha, Mount Baker, and others.

Attractions in Mount Rwenzori National Park

Wildlife

One of Uganda’s National Parks, Mount Rwenzori, is home to a variety of animals. The park is home to around 70 different species of animals. This group of creatures includes the Gian Forest Hog, Colobus Monkey, Olive Baboon, Blue Monkey, Antelope, Rwenzori Otter, Duiker, L’hoest Monkey, and Forest Elephant.

Birdlife

A birder’s heaven, Mount Rwenzori National Park is home to approximately 217 different bird species, including 17 local species. Barbets, the Blue-headed Sunbird, the Malachite sunbirds with scarlet tufts, the Golden-winged Warbler, the Handsome Francolin, the Rwenzori Turaco, the Long-eared Owl, the Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo, the Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, the Strange Weaver, the African Long-eared Owl, and the Archers’ Robin-chat. Greenbuls, IIladopsis, Apalises, Crimson-winged Flycatchers, Black Eagles, Bamboo Wamblers, White-starred Robins, Montane Sooty Boubous, Slender-billed Starlings, Lagden’s Bush Shrikes, Blue-headed Sunbirds, Barbets, and Golden-winged Sunbirds are a few of the other species.

Snow Peaks

Mount Rwenzori, the third-tallest mountain in Africa after Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya, is the main draw. There are also the 4627-meter-tall Mount Luigi Da Savoia, 4890-meter-tall Mount Speke, 4843-meter-tall Mount Baker, 4715-meter-tall Mount Gessi, and 4791-meter-tall Mount Emin Pasha. These are accessible through trekking.

Lakes

About 20 gorgeous lakes and breathtaking landscapes may be found in the Mount Rwenzori national park, which can be reached by ascending the mountain. Lake Mahoma, Lake Bujuku, Lake Kitandara, among others, are among the lakes.

Bulemba residences

Isaiah Mukirania Kibanzanga, the first monarch of the Rwenzururu kingdom, owned these antiques. The tranquil Bakonzo people can be found living in the Rwenzori Mountains’ foothills. Every year on September 2nd, the Bakonzo people offer sacrifices at the holy location in honor of their first king.

Ruboni

This is where neighborhood walks, birding excursions, and environmental strolls all begin. It is situated in the southernmost region of the Rwenzori Mountains.

Recreational opportunities in Mount Rwenzori National Park

Mountain Climbing and Trekking

Mount Rwenzori, one of Uganda’s best and most fascinating hiking destinations, offers breathtaking views to take in while climbing. On the six peaks of Mountain Rwenzori, hiking is permitted in the park. A successful hike requires preparation. Even experienced hikers find the terrain on the mountain difficult. The primary trekking circuit climbs 4,267 meters above sea level and takes six nights or seven days to accomplish.

Birding

One of the best places for birdwatchers to see birds is Mount Rwenzori. Up to 217 different bird species may be spotted by tourists that like birding. In addition to the Crimson Wings, Collared Apalises, Golden-winged Sunbird, Dusky and Shelley’s Crimsonwings, Dwarf Honeyguide, Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, and Scarlet-tufted Malachite Sunbird, these species are also found in the area. Slender-billed Starling, Montane Sooty Boubou, White-starred Robin, and more.

Rwenzori Mountains cultural excursions

One of the most thrilling and captivating activities is this. While taking a trip through the countryside to the Rwenzori mountain’s foothills, you might come across cultural excursions. The most adorable excursion is to the Bakonzo. because there is a chance to learn about their way of life, participate in ethnic dances, meet blacksmiths, learn how to create baskets, and hear their stories.
In addition to the Bamba, there are other tribes.

Nature hikes

This is organized by companies like Rwenzori Mountain Services and Backpackers in Kilembe close to the Mount Rwenzori National Park’s limits. These RMS-sponsored nature hikes often go around the main climbing route circuit zone.

watching wildlife

More than 70 distinct species of animals, nine different reptile species, six different amphibian species, and primates including red-tailed monkeys, olive baboons, blue monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, etc. may all be found on the slopes of Mount Rwenzori. The list of creatures includes duikers, bushbucks, Rwenzori otter, leopards, elephants, enormous forest hogs, and other animals.

Best time to Visit Rwenzori National Park

Due to the high rainfall in this region on the eastern slopes of the Rockies, the park is open all year round. The optimum times to visit Mount Rwenzori are from June through August and from December through February so that hikers may travel comfortably. The dry season doesn’t continue very long in Mountain Rwenzori.

Accommodations in Mount Rwenzori National Park

The park offers a variety of hotels. They include luxurious lodgings, reasonably priced lodgings, and inexpensive lodgings. They range from Equator Snow Lodge to Tour Holiday Inn to Rwenzori Turaco View Campsite to Ihamba Lake Side Safari Lodge to Tropical Savannah Guest House to Rwenzori International Hotel to Rwenzori Backpackers to Sandton Hotel Kasese to Rwenzori View Guest House to Rujuna Guest House to Hotel Cornerstone to Ataco Lodge to Fort Motel to New Saad Hotel to Palace Motel, among others.

Getting to Rwenzori Mountain National Park

To get to the park, you can either choose a land or air route. The distance between Kasese and Kampala by automobile is about five hours. Kasese can be reached from Kampala through either the 375-kilometer Fort Portal Road or the 450-kilometer Mbarara and Queen Elizabeth National Park road.

Another way to travel to Rwenzori Mountain National Park is by chartered aircraft from Kajjansi Airfield or Entebbe International Airport. Aero link and Bar Aviation Charter Flights are two of these flights.

Mount Elgon National Park

Just a few kilometers from Mbale Town, in the Eastern region of Uganda, is Mount Elgon National Park. The extinct Volcanic Mountain is covered by a total land area of 1145 square kilometers where the park is located. The name of the park was inspired by Mt. Elgon, the area’s main attraction. Mt. Elgon, which has a height of 4321 meters, is the second-highest mountain in Uganda after Mt. Rwenzori. Mt. Elgon is a volcanic mountain that was created through the process of vulcanicity, in contrast to Rwenzori Mountain, which is a block mountain. It is a dormant volcano that Kenya and Uganda both share. One of Uganda’s best national parks for hiking is this one.

Two nations, Kenya and Uganda, are in charge of running the Mt. Elgon National Park. Due to the fact that each nation took its time, the park was gazetted in two distinct years. Kenya was the first to gazete the park as a national park in 1968, followed by Uganda in 1992. The park is primarily located in Uganda, where it also has the largest area (1,110 square kilometers).

The smallest area of the park is in Kenya, measuring only 169 square kilometers. Along the Eastern road, the park is situated 235 kilometers from Kampala, the country’s capital. The travel through the city of adventure, or “Jinja,” where you will be passing through the top of the River Nile, takes 4 to 5 hours. The path from Kampala City to Kapchorwa is safe and well-paved.

One of Uganda’s most ancient natural features is Mt. Elgon. It is thought that the mountain last erupted about 24 million years ago. The peak was one of the highest in Africa before Mt. Kilimanjaro, which has 5,895 meters today. Mt. Elgon’s height has dropped to 4,321 meters as a result of extensive soil erosion over many years. After Mount Kilimanjaro of Tanzania, Mount Kenya of Kenya, and Mount Rwenzori of Uganda, the mountain is currently the fourth-highest mountain in East Africa. On the African continent, it is ranked as the eighth-highest mountain.

The two nations of East Africa share four of Mt. Elgon’s high summits. On the Ugandan side, Wagagai Peak, which has a height of 4321 meters, is the highest point. Jackson’s Summit, Kiongo Peak, and Mubiyi are three other peaks on Mount Elgon, with elevations of 4165, 4303, and 4210 meters, respectively. Numerous regional tribes that call the peak Mt. Masaba surround it.

This name honors the notable ancestors, Bagishu, also known as Bamasaba, who lived for a very long time close to the mountain. The term Bamasamba refers to their god, according to whom they claim to reside in a mountain cave. The Bagishu, which dominates the mountain surroundings, and the Sabiny, which are found on the other side, are the two notable local tribes that leave around the mountain.

Mt. Elgon has a volcanic base that is more than 4,000 square kilometers in size, making it the largest in the world as well as in Uganda. The mountain is not only the oldest volcano in East Africa, but it is also the largest. It has an 80-kilometer circle and is located more than 3000 meters above sea level. The mountain provides the Bagishu people with a stable source of income and serves as a water catchment area for the River Sipi, which forms the magnificent Sipi Falls. To obtain Malewa, one of the favorite sources, the villagers must walk to the mountain.

Attractions found in Mount Elgon National Park

During their visit to this remote national park, visitors can enjoy a number of attractions at Mount Elgon. If you adore hiking but are now unable to do so due to physical limitations or other health difficulties, choosing a mountain or activity that is less difficult is unquestionably the best option for you. The following are some of the top park attractions:

Birds

The many flora types found in Mt. Elgon have produced excellent fertile ground for a variety of bird species’ habitats. Over 299 bird species can be found at Mount Elgon National Park, including 12 endemic species that are unique to Uganda. Jackson’s Francolin, Marsh Widowbird, Alpine Chat, Weyn’s Weaver, Moustached Green Tinker Bird, Black-collared Apalis, Red-throated Wryneck, and others are examples of endemic birds. Lammergeier vultures, white-starred forest robins, Black-shouldered kites, Tacazze sunbirds, Eastern bronze-naped pigeons, Hartlaub’s turacos, and other common bird species are only a few examples.

Mount Elgon National Park’s flora

The park is a haven for various plant life that is arranged in accordance with the significant altitude fluctuations as height rises. The mountain’s slopes are home to a wide variety of higher-altitude vegetation, from Montana to open moorland vegetation, which is peppered with uncommon plant species including Lobelia. More tourists come to Mount Elgon National Park for sightseeing since the shrubs are covered in lovely blooms.

Mont Elgon

This is the main draw of Mount Elgon National Park, which got its name from the volcanic mountain that sits in the middle of it. Mt Elgon actually occupies three-quarters of the park. The mountain is the eighth tallest in Africa and the fourth highest in East Africa. Uganda and Kenya both share their four major peak points. By obtaining a park entry permit from Kenya Wildlife Services, one can reach the mountain from the Kenyan side. Alternatively, one can enter the mountain from Uganda by obtaining a permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Depending on the hiker’s physical condition, the peak can be climbed in 3 to 5 days.

Sipi falls 

One of the popular tourist destinations in Mount Elgon National Park is the Sipi Falls. The magnificent Tutum cave, which is concealed in the thick forest. At the cave’s edge, where the River Sipi meets the last piece of volcanic rock, the falls are created. Safaris are not complete without visiting Mount Elgon National Park.

Wildlife/ Mammals

Animals including waterbucks, duiker, spotted hyenas, oribi, monkeys, squirrels, and many others can be found in Mount Elgon National Park. The park’s background is forested, where more animals can be found. Even though the Mountain is the main draw, visitors can still see these animals while engaging in other park activities.

Bagishu culture

One of Uganda’s distinctive cultures belongs to the Bagishu, also known as the Bamasamba. To get to the closest Mbale town, the tribe departs from the park. They hold ceremonies for circumcision all around the area once a year. The “Mbalu” dance is a more spiritual, cultural, and distinctive dance. The victims will be showered with dust, soil, ash, and other materials as they are made to dance while being transported from one location to another to undergo circumcision.

Activities in Mount Elgon

climbing Mt. ElgonThe primary tourist activity at Mount Elgon National Park is hiking. There are four principal hiking routes. These include the Sasa Trail, the Sipi Trail, the Piswa Trail, and the Suam Trail; the length of each trail varies in days. While other pathways will lead you to Sipi Waterfalls, hiking will take you to the peak of the Wagagai mountain. Depending on the route you pick and your level of fitness, the hike to Mount Elgon might take anywhere from 4 to 7 days. Compared to other African mountains, this one is easier to trek and is more mild.

Birding

With over 299 bird species reported, Mount Elgon National Park is one of the top attractions for birders. Moorland Francolin, Marsh Widowbird, Alpine Chat, Wyn’s weaver, Moustached green tinker bird, Jackson’s Francolin, Hunter’s Cisticola, Black-collared apalis, Red-throated wryneck, and other endemic bird species are among the 12 species of birds. Lammergeier vultures, white-starred forest robins, Black-shouldered kites, Tacazze sunbirds, Eastern bronze-naped pigeons, Hartlaub’s turacos, and other common bird species are only a few examples.

Mt Elgon national park is a quiet destination that is isolated but best for travelers who need to refresh their minds.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a distinctive safari site that provides visitors with an exceptional experience. Mountain gorillas, an endangered species, as well as a wide range of other creatures and stunning natural environs may be found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in south-western Uganda. Visitors can experience breath-taking vistas of the Virunga mountains, lush forests, and gushing rivers thanks to the park’s rocky height.
Due to the abundance of traditional villages and historic structures that can be found within the park’s boundaries, visitors will also have the chance to learn about the region’s rich cultural history. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is likely to offer a memorable safari experience, whether your goal is to see mountain gorillas in their native habitat or simply to soak in the stunning surroundings.

Attractions in Mgahinga Primate National Park.

Mountain gorillas

Mountain gorillas, whose extinction is a concern, can be found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. About 400 mountain gorillas live in this large park in Uganda, but they are in danger due to development, poaching, and sickness. These magnificent primates have been preserved thanks to national and international conservation efforts, but much more has to be done to assure their existence.

Golden monkeys

Several primate species, notably the golden monkey, that are most in danger of going extinct can be found in Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These gorgeous monkeys are easily recognized by their golden coats and exceptional features and can be found in bamboo and tropical forests. Although these primates are extremely rare, their continued existence in the park is a testament to the success of communities’ and environmental organizations’ conservation efforts.

Virunga volcanoes

The magnificent Virunga Volcanoes, a series of three still active volcanoes, can be seen in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These majestic peaks, which are a part of the Albertine Rift Valley, are the only places where the critically endangered mountain gorilla may be found. The Virunga Volcanoes provide breathtaking views and the opportunity to see nature in all of its unadulterated grandeur.

Bird species

The Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is unique in that it is home to many different bird species. The park offers a superb setting for birds to thrive with its varied topography and abundant water sources. This park is home to more than 150 different bird species, from the uncommon African Green Broadbill to the widespread Golden-backed Weaver. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a wonderful site to see and take in these lovely creatures in their natural habitat because of the variety of bird species that can be found there.

Animal species

Some of the most fascinating animal species in the world may be found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which is situated in the southwest of Uganda. This park is also home to buffalo, a vast range of birds, golden monkeys, critically endangered mountain gorillas, and mountain gorillas. While strolling through its gorgeous woods and grasslands, visitors may delight in seeing elephants, antelopes, and chimpanzees. Every visitor to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park receives a wonderful safari experience in this absolutely spectacular location.

Activities to do in Mgahinga Gorilla national park.

Gorilla trekking

Mountain gorillas can be sighted there for up to an hour at a time, making it a perfect safari location for a gorilla trekking expedition. Mgahinga, which is located in the Virunga Mountains and has extinct volcanoes, beautiful forests, and a variety of animal life, provides a distinctive experience. Mgahinga is one of the best places to see mountain gorillas in their native habitat because it is adjacent to both Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Golden monkey trekking

Some of the rarest and most exquisite animal species in Africa can be found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. One of these rare primates is the golden monkey, a species found only in the park’s verdant woodlands. While hiking around the park, you have the chance to get up close and personal with these incredible animals. This monkey is a sight to behold, with vivid orange fur. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park ought to be at the top of your list of must-visit locations, regardless of whether you are a novice naturalist or an experienced traveler.

Adventurers must go to Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which provides hiking volcanoes. Three volcanoes in this amazing park provide hikers the chance to test themselves while taking in the breathtaking vistas of the Virunga Mountains. Volcano trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is an adventure you won’t soon forget, whether you’re seeking excitement or just want to enjoy the beauty of nature.

Bird watching

One of the greatest sites to see birds is Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. It offers a rare chance to up-close and personal with some of the brightest and most colorful birds in the world due to its different habitats, which include marshes, bamboo woodlands, and rainforests. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is assured to offer an unforgettable experience you won’t soon forget, whether you are an expert birder or are just starting this thrilling hobby.

Batwa trail

The Batwa route in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers the finest possibility for a special and exhilarating encounter. By traveling through their ancestral home, the Batwa people’s long-preserved culture and way of life can be better understood. As you learn more about the local natural environment, you will stroll through verdant forests and take in breathtaking views. For anyone looking for an incredible journey in Uganda, the Batwa Trail is a need.

Nature walks

Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a great spot to experience the beauty of nature. It not only provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the stunning surroundings and take in the breathtaking vistas, but it also provides a home for endangered wildlife like mountain gorillas. The park’s many natural pathways provide wonderful opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the surrounds. You will have an outstanding safari experience at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park whether you decide to take a guided tour or go exploring on your own.

Garama Cave exploration

The mysterious and intriguing Garama Cave is located in the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This intricate system of chambers and tunnels offers a fascinating window into the area’s geological past. A trip here is an incredible safari adventure thanks to the cave’s breathtaking surroundings, well-kept secrets, and fascinating lore. You get the chance to explore this cave and learn more about this amazing, enigmatic place.

Best time to visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

One of the most breathtaking locations to visit is Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which is located in the Virunga Mountains in southern Uganda. It provides a unique experience for nature enthusiasts and those looking for adventure because it is the home of the critically endangered mountain gorillas.

The dry season, when temperatures are gentler and there is less likelihood of rain, is the best time to explore Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Visitors can anticipate incredible safari experiences and stunning vistas of the Virunga Mountains during this time of year.

Kibale National Park

All You need to Know About Kibale National Park-Location, Activities, Price

Kibale National Park is one of the best Primates safari destinations in Africa for chimpanzee trekking excursions and the park is home to the highest number and diversity of primates in East Africa. Kibale National Park boasts of 13 species of primates including chimpanzees living within its 795km2 land cover with the most beautiful and most diversified tracts of tropical forest in the whole of Uganda. The Forest cover dominates the central and northern part of the Kibale National park on the raised Fort Portal plateau and it stands 1590m above sea level.

Kibale National Park is rich with birdlife with at least 335 recorded species including numerous rarities and regional endemics. Four of these – Cassin’s spinetail, green-breasted pitta, masked apalis, and blue-headed bee-eater – have not been recorded elsewhere in Uganda. Bird sightings in Kibale Forest are more reliable along the main road through the park and on the boardwalk trail through the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary a community-run initiative, protects the Magombe Swamp from agricultural encroachment, generates funds for local development and has provided hundreds of birdwatchers with sightings of papyrus gonoleks and other ‘swamp specials’ as well as a decent number of Congo biome birds.

Location Of Kibale National Park

Kibale National Park is located in the western part of Uganda about 348km (5 hrs drive) from Kampala and about 26km south-east of the beautiful Fort Portal town. The park is located close to the serene Ndali Kasenda crater area and it takes a half day’s drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Rwenzori Mountains & Semuliki National Parks and the Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve. Southern Kibale borders Queen Elizabeth National Park and collectively these conserved areas protect a 180 km long migration corridor for wildlife that stretches from the remote southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park in “Ishasha”, to “Sebitoli” in northern Kibale.

Attractions in Kibale National Park

Primates

A large number of primates live in Kibale national park with chimpanzees having the highest density. The national park is blessed with a dense canopy of tall, imposing trees which serves as the monkeys’ home. There are 13 different primate species in the national park including chimpanzees, blue monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, grey cheeked mangabeys and red-tailed monkeys. Chimpanzee trekking and habituation experiences which take place in Kanyanchu are the most popular in the national park.

Wildlife

Within the dense jungle of Kibale National Park, various wildlife species call it home and these include Elephants, serval cats, buffaloes, peters and Harvey’s duiker, marsh mongooses, warthogs, sitatungas and swamp otters among others.

Birds

The national park is home to more than 375 different bird species, including ground thrush types. The park is home to migratory birds that travel from Queen Elizabeth and the surrounding areas as well as bird species that live in forests. These include among others the little greenbul, the brown illadopsis, the black-eared ground thrush, the yellow-spotted nicator, the African grey parrot, the olive long-tailed cuckoo, the blue breasted kingfisher, and the yellow-rumped tinkerbird.

Ndali-Kasenda Craters

The lakes in the craters, known as Kibale ndali kasenda crater lakes, provide an amazing beautiful picture. The parks are close to the lakes. There are more than 60 freshwater crater lakes in the area, including the lakes Ntambi, Lyantonde, Nyinambuga, Nyabikere, Kuruba, Nyinabulitwa, and Mubiro, among others.

Activities to do In Kiabale National Park

Chimpanzee Trekking

This is the activity that is done most frequently in Kibale National Park(twice daily in the morning and afternoon). Since there are over 120 habituated families in the national park, visitors can only interact with chimpanzees for an hour after finding them.

Chimpanzee Habituation

As with chimpanzee trekking, chimpanzee habituation is a similar process. However, this is referred to as the chimpanzees’ acclimatization to humans before the expedition. It costs money for tourists to spend 6 hours with chimps.

Forest Walk

The 12-kilometer-long “forest walk” in Kibale National Park travels through a variety of landscapes, including swamps, grasslands, rivers, and tropical forests. The Savannah Riverine hike takes roughly 6 hours. The walk is great since it gives visitors a chance to see primates, many bird species, mammals, especially elephants, as well as breathtaking scenery.

Bigodi Swamp Walk

The Bigodi wetland sanctuary, which is also renowned as a birder’s paradise, is located 6 kilometers from Kibale National Park. It takes 1-2 hours to go to Bigodi Wetland between papyrus reeds and palm palms. Tourists can see a variety of primates in the swamp, including the black and white colobus monkey, red colobus, red-tailed monkey, grey-cheeked mangabey, and olive baboon, as well as several bird species, including the African pitta, collared apal, ground thrush, crowned eagle, black-capped apalis, kingfisher, and weavers.

Ndali-Kasenda Tour

Tourists must stop by the Kasenda area, which contains over 50 crater lakes and is surrounded by high volcanic hills, when on a safari in Kibale. Tourists can trek the volcanic slopes in addition to seeing the lakes to get a better view of the crater lakes. These include, among others, Lake Lyantonde, Lake Kifuruka, Lake Nyinambuga, Lake Nkuruba, and Lake Nyabikere.

Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru

Rocks known as amabere ga nyina mwiru can be discovered in a cave near to the nyakasura school. The captivating waterfalls and the batooro’s deep bond to the rocks welcome tourists. According to legend, a young girl named Nyinamwiru’s father hacked off her breasts to prevent any man from marrying her after she refused to wed the guy he had picked for her. The batooro people therefore think that those are Nyinamwiru’s breasts. Hills with breathtaking views of the crater lakes are located next to the cave.

Accommodation in Kibale National Park

The national park is equipped with a variety of lodging options, from affordable to luxurious lodges both inside and outside the Kibale Forest. The low-cost lodging options include the Dutch-founded Rwenzori Guest House, the community camping and nature reserve at Lake Nkuruba, Nyabulitwa Country Resort, and safari camp, among others. The chimps nest, which is on the outskirts of the Kibale Forest, the chimpanzee forest guest house, the Jerusalem Paradise Hotel Fort Portal, the Kibale Forest Camp, and the Mountains of the Moon Hotel are among the mid-range lodging options. Ndali Kasenda Lodge, Primate Lodge, Kyaninga Lodge, Papaya Lake Lodge, and Kyaninga Lodge are just a some of the luxurious lodges in Kibale. Depending on your safari itinerary, there is a wide variety for you to pick from.

When To Visit Kibale National Park

Although Kibale National Park can be visited throughout the year, the best time to Visit the park is during the dry season when the trails are dry and passable. The dry season runs from December to February and then from June to September. The wettest area in Kibale is the northern area which receives an average annual rainfall of approximately 1700mm mainly during March to May and September to November. The climate is usually pleasant with an average annual temperature range of 14C to 27C. The southern part of the park experiences the maximum temperatures and lower amounts of rains where the terrain drops onto the hot rift valley floor and forest provides way to open grassland.

Cost Of A Safari In Kibale National Park

The cost of a Chimpanzee trekking safari in Kibale National Park is determined by a number of factors like the Kibale National Park entrance fee which is about $40 for foreign non-resident adults and $20 for children, the cost of the various activities that you will be engaging in such as chimpanzee trekking $250, birding at $30 the Bigodi Swamp Nature Walk at $30 and then the type of accommodation you will be staying at ranging from the luxury to budget facilities among which is the Crater Safari Lodge, Isunga Lodge Kibale, Ndali Lodge, Papaya Lake Lodge among others.

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Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

All You Need to Know About Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a popular tourist site for gorilla trekking in Africa and it is home to the largest population of critically endangered mountain gorillas in Uganda. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is situated on the rim of the Albertine Rift valley and is bordered by the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The 321 square kilometers of lowland and montane forest that make up the park are accessible on foot.

More than ten primate species live in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park of which mountain gorillas are the most sought-after. Other species to see include common chimpanzees, red-tailed monkeys, vervet, black and white colobus monkeys , L’Hoest monkey, African green broadbill and Africa. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to over 120 mammal species, 350 species of birds, 310 species of butterflies, 27 species of frogs, chameleons, and geckos, as well as

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park boasts of 22 habituated mountain gorilla families which are accessible to tourists in four different sectors of Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo in the districts of Kanungu, Kabale, and Kisoro respectively and are all managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Generally speaking, gorilla trekking is the park’s top tourist draw and a significant source of income for the “UWA” Uganda Wildlife Authority. However, the Mubare gorilla family was the only habituated gorilla family at the time that the activity first became available in April 1993. Be aware that valid gorilla permits must be bought at the Uganda Wildlife Authority or with the assistance of a reputable tour operator if a tourist want to track or trek mountain gorillas.

Additionally, gorilla trekking is only available to a small number of tourists because it is conducted in a gorilla family that has become accustomed to human presence due to the gorillas’ safety threats and habitat loss. Along with guided walks through the forest, Bwindi also offers gorilla habituation, Batwa cultural experiences, forest walks, mountain biking, visits to Lake Mutanda and walks through the Buhoma community.

Climate

Bwindi is located in a tropical climate zone with annual temperature ranges of 7 to 15 degrees Celsius at the low end and 20 to 27 degrees Celsius at the high. Additionally, it receives 1,400 to 1,900 millimeters of rain every year. Therefore, the two seasons with the heaviest rainfall are March to April and September to November. The greatest time to see gorillas in their natural habitat is between December and February, during the peak dry season, which lasts from June to mid-September.

Location

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in South Western Uganda on border with Rwanda and Congo. The travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from the southwest of Uganda takes 8 to 9 hours. As an alternative, you can take a chartered or regularly scheduled domestic flight that departs from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip and lands at the nearby small airstrips of Kihihi or Kisoro in around 1:30 hours.

Activities in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Gorilla Trekking

The majority of visitors choose to do this during their Bwindi Impenetrable National Park safari. The activity begins early in the morning with a briefing led by a park ranger guide at the park’s administrative center. Following that, the park guides will divide you into eight groups based on the gorilla sector you were given. Depending on how they move, the walk could last 30 to 7 hours. Once located, you are permitted to spend an hour with the gorillas learning from them and taking pictures and videos while you are there. In Bwindi, a day of gorilla trekking costs USD 800 per person.

Gorilla Habituation

The second activity on a safari to Bwindi is gorilla habituation noises, which can only be done in the Rushaga sector, one of the four gorilla sectors. After eating breakfast in the morning, travel to the park’s administrative center, and then leave for the activity. Along with scientists, park rangers, and doctors, trackers will begin a hike or walk through the Impenetrable jungle in order to gather information and learn more about mountain gorillas.

However, after receiving your allotted time, you get four hours to spend with the gorillas so you can observe and engage with them. There are two habituated gorilla families in Bwindi, namely Rushaga, where the activity is permitted eight times a day. To avoid disappointments at the last minute, we suggest you to make reservations in advance.
Foreign nonresidents must pay USD 1500 for a gorilla habituation permit, foreign residents must pay USD 1,000, and East African nationals must pay UGX 750,000.

Birding

A visit to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park will allow you to go birding and witness a variety of rare bird species that call the park home. Western green tinker birds, Ruwenzori Apalis, Purple-breasted sunbirds, Olive-breasted sunbirds, Neumann’s warblers, Mountain masked apalis, Black-faced warblers, Africa broadbills, Black bee-eaters, and Black-billed Turacos are just a few of the bird species to look out for.

Batwa Cultural Experience

One of the main activities in the park is the Batwa cultural experience, where visitors can learn about how the Batwa people once coexisted in the forest with mountain gorillas, how they traditionally prepared food, how to gather wild honey, and how they shared their knowledge of how to make medicine from plants.

Community walks

Visitors can participate in guided community walks around the Buhoma village, where they can see the local school, hospital, and enjoy the spectacular traditional dance and music.

Mountain Biking

This is a fantastic pastime that is best enjoyed in the Buhoma districts, where the women’s community club Ride 4 owns and rents out bikes to tourists for the best bicycling experience.

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Semuliki National Park

Semuliki National Park is an environmentally varied national park situated in the Bundibugyo area of southwest Uganda. One of Uganda’s newest national parks, this unique tourism attraction was only founded. This 542 square kilometer national park in Uganda extends from the north east region of Bundibugyo to the southern shores of Lake Albert in Ntoroko. It is located in the western arm of the rift valley. Semuliki Flats, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the Rwenzori Mountains are all located on each side of Semuliki National Park.

Attractions in Semuliki national park 

Sempaya hot springs

Sempaya hot springs are two distinct hot spring systems, known as male and female, that are separated by 30 minutes of walking between them. Male hot spring Bitende, whose hot waters shoot out at a force of 12 meters, and female hot spring Nyasimbi are both located in separate locations. Due to its extremely hot water, tourists prefer the female hot spring, which jets at a distance of 2 meters.

Wildlife

Around 60 different animal species call Semuliki home, and both primates and mammals may be found in the park’s savannah and forest flora. Antelopes, blue duikers, forest Beecroft’s flying squirrels, small collared fruit bats, pygmy squirrels, water chevrotains, bay duikers, African buffaloes, leopards, hippopotamuses, mona monkeys, water chevrotains, bush babies, African civets, African elephants, and a variety of other mammals are among the mammals. The black and white colobus monkey, chimpanzees, olive baboons, red-tailed monkey, blue monkey, vervet, galagos, and Pottos are among the primates that call Semuliki National Park home.

Bird species

The park is covered in lovely vegetation, including savannah grassland and the Ituri forest, which attracts a variety of avian species to the area. Over 400 different bird species have been recorded in the Semuliki National Park, including the Spot-breasted Ibis, the long-tailed hawk, the Nkulengu rail, the western bronze-naped pigeon, the yellow-throated cuckoo, the black-throated coucal, the white-bellied kingfisher, the piping hornbill, the red-billed dwarf hornbill, the black dwarf hornbill, the white-cre

Vegetation cover 

Beautiful short open savannah grass and the evergreen semuliki forest cover, which is an extension of the Ituri forest of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, make up the park’s beautiful vegetation cover, which serves as a habitat for a variety of wildlife species.

Semuliki National Park activities

Game drive

With its open savanna grass cover, Semuliki National Park offers an incredible game reserve activity. On a game drive, you can view and appreciate the park’s beauty as well as a variety of animal species, including the African buffalo, leopard, hippopotamus, mona monkey, water chevrotain, bush babies, African civet, African elephant, Pygmy scaly-tailed flying squirrel, bay duiker, and many others.

Visiting the hot springs 

It is astonishing to see hot water emerge from a group where there is no fire to make it hot. Visiting Sempaya hot springs is a really thrilling experience. You can observe water bursting from the ground at this location, and some foods, such as eggs and potatoes, are boiled in hot water before being served. Sempaya hot springs provide a picturesque setting for photographs if you are a photographer or picture fanatic.

Bird watching 

Semuliki National Park is a significant birding location that is home to a variety of colorful bird species. While bird watching there, you may see birds like the black-throated coucal, white-bellied kingfisher, piping hornbill, red-billed dwarf hornbill, black dwarf hornbill, white-crested hornbill, white-thighed hornbill, black-casqued wattled hornbill, red-rumped Tin These birds can be observed in the park’s short savanna vegetation and in the forest trees.

Cultural encounter 

The pygmy hunter-gatherers known as the batwa people dwell on the fringes of Semuliki National Park; they were the original inhabitants of the Ituri Forest before it was designated as a national park. Until this day, these folks continue to lead an antiquated lifestyle, which may be seen while taking a cultural tour of their neighborhood. You have the opportunity to converse with them, hear their numerous tales, and observe a variety of things, including their hunting prowess, the construction of homes from local materials, songs and dances, and many other fascinating cultural and traditional characteristics.

Nature guided walks  

Another exciting activity in the Semuliki National Park is taking guided nature walks, which take you to various park areas including the savannah grassland and a section of the Ituri forest. You get to spot and encounter many wildlife species habited in the park and they include African buffalo, leopard, hippopotamus, Mona monkey, water chevrotain, birds like white-bellied kingfisher, piping hornbill, red-billed dwarf hornbill, black dwarf hornbill, white-crested hornbill, white-thighed hornbill, black-casqued wattled hornbill, red-rumped Tinkerbird, lyre-tailed honeyguide and many more. On nature-guided hikes, you can visit many attractions in Semuliki National Park by following the trails Kirumia, Sempaya, and Red Monkey.

Primate tracking

Semuliki Forest, a section of the Ituri Forest located in the park, is where primate tracking in the Seluliki National Park takes place. Here, you may see primates like the black and white colobus monkey, chimpanzees, olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, vervet, galagos, and Pottos.

You can explore Semuliki National Park by using the following trails:

Sempaya nature Trail

The wonderful Sempaya hot springs are reached by the Sempaya nature route, which takes you through the semuliki forest and past primates including black and white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and others.

Kirumia trail

A popular track for bird watching is Kirumia track, which travels through the Semuliki Forest to the Semuliki River, a haven for many different bird species.

Red monkey trail

Using the Red Monkey Trail, which leads through the park to the Semuliki River, you can see Dee Brazza monkeys.

Best time to visit Semuliki national park 

The best time to visit Semuliki National Park is during the dry months. National parks in Uganda are visited throughout the year, and the same is true with Semuliki. The two dry seasons that the park experiences are from December to May and August to November.

Because there is little rain during the dry months and the routes leading to game drives are generally dry and passable, these months are ideal for travel. Additionally, the park’s short grass provides an opportunity for a solitary observation of animals.

Where to stay in Semuliki national park 

Compared to other national parks in Uganda, this one has less lodging options that are both inside and outside the park and provide cozy lodging and food. Among these amenities are the luxurious Semuliki safari lodge and Ntoronko Game Lodge. Budget hotels include Kirumia Guesthouse, Tooro Resort, UWA bandas and cottages, Hotel Vanilla, among many others. These lodging options will make your trip worthwhile.

How to reach Semuliki national park 

The Semuliki National Park is accessible by both air and road. The park is located 287 kilometers from Kampala, and there are two roads that lead there: one goes from Kampala to Mubende, another to Fort Portal, and the other ends in the Bundibugyo area.

If you choose, you can travel from Kampala City to Masaka, Mbarara, Kasese, Fort Portal, and then the Bundibugyo area. You can go to Semuliki airstrip by chartered domestic flight from Kajjansi airstrip or Entebbe International airport. Both Fly Uganda and Aerolink Uganda Limited run these flights out of Kajjansi Airfield and Entebbe Airport, respectively.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park : The most spectacular and second-largest national park in Uganda after Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park is situated in the southwest in the Kasese area at the foot of the magnificent Rwenzori mountain ranges.

Lake George and Lake Edward are close by the park. The park is home to a variety of animals, including the tree-climbing lion, waterbuck, Uganda kobs, and warthogs, all of which are frequently seen in and near the park’s entrance. You can also expect to see many elephants, hippopotamuses, and leopards lounging in the sun.

There are many different types of inhabitants in the open savannah grassland, lakes, wetland, and woods, including many mammals, primates, water animals, and four of the big five. But after two years, when Queen Elizabeth II paid a visit to the park, it was renamed Kazinga National Park. The park was first established in 1952.

It is the most popular travel destination among other tour locations because it is Uganda’s most well-known wildlife reserve with distinctive physical characteristics. The park is located in the southwest of Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, and its lowland area is estimated to be 1978 square kilometers.

There are over 95 different mammal species in Queen Elizabeth National Park, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, Uganda Kobs, African bush leopards, water animals like hippos and crocodiles, and many more. “The tree climbing lions” are unique to this park and cannot be found in any other national park in Uganda.

The park is home to 600 different bird species, including swamp flycatchers, palm-nut vuttures, pel’s fishing owls, spotted Redshanks, yellow-throated cuckoos, crab-plovers, collared pratincoles, and many more. The park’s principal attractions are best seen in five of its boundary sectors, which are the highlights of an African adventure: the Ishsa sector, the Mweya Peninsula, the Kazinga Channel, the Maramagambo Forest, and the Kyambura Gorge.

When visiting the park, visitors can participate in a variety of enjoyable activities, such as game drives, nature walks, bird watching, mongoose tracking, lions that scale trees, chimpanzee tracking, boat cruises, cave visits, and visits to Katwe Salt Lake, among others. You will have an exceptional and unforgettable experience when seeing Queen Elizabeth National Park thanks to all these activities.

Game drive

This is the most exciting thing you can do in Kasenyi Plain, where you may observe the most exquisite wildlife that characterizes an African journey when you go to Queen National Park. The best time to go on a game drive is early in the day when the park’s attractions allow you to see the park’s wild creatures up close. You will travel in a safari vehicle with a knowledgeable guide who follows you about and leads you on a quest for various wild species. Enjoying your game drive will reward you with incredible spot viewing of animals like elephants with ears that resemble the continent of Africa, lions hunting Uganda kobs, warthogs, leopards, and numerous buffalo herds, among others, that you may encounter while on the game drive.

Lion tracking

Lion tracking, which entails following the lion using cell phones in the Kasenyi Plains, appears to be the second intriguing activity that appeals to tourists. This is an incredibly moving experience being conducted by experts from the Uganda Carnivore Program. It is primarily done in the open savanna of the Kasenyi plain giving you enough information about African lions and also giving you a chance to see the king of the jungle with your own eyes, watching as they prey on Uganda kobs for their daily meal. In order to prevent disturbances in their natural habitat and to provide a thrilling lion tracking experience, lion tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park is done with a small group of people. Each participant must pay USD 50 for lion tracking.

Chimpanzee tracking

The incredible activity of chimpanzee tracking has helped the park become well-known for its gorillas. The largest crevasse in East Africa, Kyambura Gorge, situated in the north of Queen Elizabeth National Park, where this activity can be carried out.Chimpanzees, as well as other tiny primates like Red-tailed monkeys and baboons, are known to live in the Kyambura Gorge. If you’re tracking, you may also be able to see lovely birds. The most thrilling activity you can participate in is chimpanzee tracking. Permits for tracking chimpanzees cost $150 per person.

Bird watching 

The park is one of the best places to go on birding safaris because it is home to over 600 different bird species. This activity can be done in Maramangambo Forest, where visitors can see rare birds like the palm-nut vutture, spotted red shank, yellow-winged tera, African finfoot, African hobby, African skimmer, Black bee-eater, Caspian plover, Great blue turaco, and Great white pygmy goose while listening to

Boat cruise  

Queen Elizabeth National Park offers boating excursions along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that joins Lake Edward and Lake George. One has the opportunity to witness water wildlife throughout the voyage on the waterway, including several hippos swimming in the channel and Nile crocodiles basking in the sun on the channel’s banks. These will all be once-in-a-lifetime experiences that you can have on the cruise.

Mongoose tracking:

This is a fantastic activity that can be done along the hike as you encounter at kazinga channel in the Mweya peninsula. It takes 3 hours to get to the mongoose study area with a guide, where you may see this unusual mongoose and learn about its lifestyle, habits, and behavior.

Nature walks

In the Maramagambo Forest, which is home to several primates and birds, one can go on nature walks. You may see tree species that have been present on the park’s grounds for many years while strolling through the forest. You can also explore the caves that are hidden within the forest, where you can see a large number of bats.

Packing list for Queen Elizabeth National Park Uganda Safari

Because of Uganda’s temperate climate, it occasionally rains at night or in the morning after the sun has set during the day. If you want to visit one of Uganda’s national parks, including Queen Elizabeth National Park, you can drive yourself there. Warm garments, sweaters, lighting gear, mineral water bottles, hiking boots, tents, waterproof bags, pants, and long sleeved shirts are just a few of the essentials you should take with your personal items.

Best time to visit the Queen Elizabeth National Park

The best time to visit the park is during the dry seasons, when the primates paths are less slippery and the vast savanna grassland is drier for easier vehicle mobility along the nature habitant of wildlife. Uganda has two seasons, the dry season and the wet season. You can visit the park during the rainy seasons, especially if you enjoy going on birding safaris. Because the forest is greener and more abundant in food during this season, you can see the secret haven that birds call their woodland home. Wet seasons run from March to May and September to December, while dry months run from June to September and December to February.

Accommodation in Queen Elizabeth National Park

In addition to being the most popular park, it features excellent and pleasant lodging options, with prices varying depending on the facility, location, and amenities. Simba Safari Camp, Irungu Forest Safari Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge, Kasenyi Safari Camp, Queen Elizabeth Park View Tourist Lodge, Engiri Game Lodge and campsite, Tembo Safari Lodge, Buffalo Safari Lodge, Marafiki Safari Lodge, and others are a few of the lodging options in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Getting to Queen Elizabeth National Park

The quickest and most convenient way to get to the park is by plane, which takes one hour and twenty minutes to travel from Kajjasi Airstrip along Entebbe Road to Mweya Airstrip, which is close to the park. It takes 5 hours 30 minutes to go by vehicle from Kampala, the capital of Uganda, to the major attraction.

Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is situated in Kiruhura district, which borders the Isingiro District and the Mbarara District in the east. About 260 square kilometers of its low land are covered by the park. Compared to other national parks in Uganda, Lake Mburo National Park is the smallest and nearest to Kampala, the country’s capital.

Road travel takes 4 hours and 240 kilometers from Kampala. 68 kinds of mammals, over 313 bird species, lakes, marshes, trees, flora, savanna grasslands, and 6 species of fish all call the park home. The Uganda Wildlife Authority oversees the management of all of these species. In 1993, the park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This area was gazetted in 1933 and served as a shooting ground for the locals until it was elevated to a game reserve in 1963. At that time, the pastoralist Banyankole known as “Bahima” were the inhabitants of this area. They kept grazing their cattle there up until 1983, when Obote’s administration upgraded the area to national park status. Between the Rwenzori Mountain and the Lake Victoria shoreline, a rain shadow extends over the park. It is likewise located at a low latitude between 1,220 and 1,828 meters above sea level. Tourists can make a pit stop at the equator to observe the location of the sun’s setting point and enjoy spectacular views of the highest peak, “Margherita peak,” on the Rwenzori mountain, which is the highest mountain in Africa and the entire world.

Massive herds of “impala” are a highlight of Lake Mburo National Park. The majority of these impalas can only be found in this park, along with other antelopes including oribis, warthogs, bush pigs, duikers, tops, elands, and many others. The two brothers used to live together in the valley, and this is when the word lake mburo first appeared. These were Kigarama and Mburo, who just so happened to have a nightmare. Kigarama decided to tell his brother Mburo the nightmare one day and made it clear that they needed to migrate to the hills. Mburo disregarded the fantasy his brother had described and chose to remain, which led to his death when the waters arrived. Due to Kigarama’s forced relocation into the hills, the word “Mburo” was derived from this narrative.

More than 313 different bird species can be seen at the Lake Mburo National Park, including common francolins, green woodhoopoes, Nubian woodpeckers, white-winged warblers, African grey hornbills, and rarer species like the yellow-throated longclaw and the African wetted lover. In addition, it is home to over 68 mammals, including zebras, impalas, road antelopes, jackes, hyenas, and buffaloes.

The inland regions include wetlands with distinctive lakes that are home to over six kinds of fish, including the well-known tilapia, lungfish, and mudfish, as well as waterbirds including shoebill storks, pelicans, black crakes, and aquatic mammals like crocodiles and hippopotamuses. Both black and yellow papyrus and sitatunga antelopes can be found in the marshes. These animals have improved the various Uganda safari Destinations and made the park well-known throughout the world.

The most famous lake in the park, Lake Mburo, has more than six different types of fish and is one of the more than five lakes that make up Lake Mburo National Park. The park is located in western Uganda, to the east of Mbarara, the country’s most populous and picturesque town. The shortest travel time to get there by car is over 4 hours, covering a distance of 240 kilometers.

The Lake Mburo National Park offers a wide range of popular tourist attractions, including bird watching, guided nature walks, cultural safaris, visits to Rubanga Forest, fishing, as well as other sports like horseback riding and bicycling.

Guided nature walks

At Rwonyo Rest camp in the Lake Mburo National Park, visitors can be guided by a guide to the open savanna grasslands. Acacia gerill and Acacia hockii are only two examples of the acacia trees they may see. They may also be taken to the salt links, where thousands of impalas, buffaloes, oribs, topis, and duikers can be seen grazing on the saline terrain.

Birding watching

Over 313 bird species that are appropriate for birding safaris can be found in the park. Large populations of birds, including the African finfoot, mosque swallow, white-winged warbler, green, bare-faced go away, black-billed barbet, Rufous naped, yellow-throated longclaw, Narina trogon, and many others, can be seen in the Rubanga forest.

Boat Cruise

Lake mburo national park is renowned for its distinctive lake mburo and the other four lakes that are situated within the park. Lake mburo is home to six different species of fish, including the well-known tilapia fish and haplochromis. Travelers interested in discovering African lakes can have this incredible experience by hooking fish in the lakes’ natural habitats. Tourists can see aquatic creatures including crocodiles, hippos, buffaloes, and waterbirds like water bills, shoebill storks, pelicans, black crakes, and many others while they are busy enjoying boat launches.

 

Game drive

The ranger guide can take the tourists on game drives. They will be able to see several kinds of plants, vegetables, and animals, including the well-known zebras, leopards, buffaloes, hyenas, antelopes, jackes, and impalas.

Horse Back riding

The only park that provides tourists with this exclusive horseback riding package while they explore the park’s various features is Lake Mburo National Park.

Cultural encounters  

A neighborhood surrounds the park, and its residents entertain the guests by performing cultural dances to traditional music.

Accommodations in Lake Mburo National Park

The Lake Mburo National Park offers distinctive lodging options, including high-end, opulent, and low-cost lodges. Depending on the client’s budget, a few of the lodges are the Montana luxury tented camp, Mihingo lodge, Eagle Nest lodge, Lake Mburo safari lodge, Arcadia cottages, Rwonyo park headquarters, and many others.

Best Time to visit Lake Mburo National Park

The dry season, which lasts from January through March, June through August, and December, is the ideal time to visit Lake Mburo National Park. The best time to travel to Uganda for a Uganda safari Tour is during these seasons when the weather is cooperative and you can take advantage of the excellent opportunities to discover the wild wildlife.

You can also go during the rainy months of February, May, July, and September. A traveler must pack weather-appropriate clothing for this season, including sweaters, jammers, jackets, and gumboots.