Kibale National Park

Being the most pre-montane forest in east Africa the park lies on the western edges of the country, containing a diverse array of landscapes. The primate capital of the world is gifted by 13 species chanced enough with a variety of diurnal monkeys but the east African chimpanzees as said to be the forest's most cherished lead the scene. This magnifique eco-tourism and safari destination was gazetted in 1932 and formally established in 1993 to protect the enormous and endangered forest species. The park has become most popular for chimpanzee tracking and other activities like chimpanzee habituation, nature walks, and birding following the famous Kanyanchu Primate Walk. It would uncertain for a nature lover to miss viewing these great apes because the chances of locating them are extremely excellent. The guided walks start at 8 am and 2 pm given an average of three hours, depending on various factors. Kibale national park is home to 120 mammals, including Uganda mangabey, Ugandan red colobus, chimpanzees, elephants, and antelopes. the park hosts about 370 species of birds, with the most 23 Albertine Rift endemics such as the green-breasted Pita, Purple-breasted sunbird, Dusky crimsongwing, The Nahan’s francolin, Cassin's spinetail, blue-headed bee-eater and low-land masked Apalis..the chimpanzee population surges to about 1,500 individuals subdivided into at least dozens of different communities, having 4 habituated to humans.

Activities in Kibale National Park.

Chimpanzee Habituation Experience

Chimpanzee habituation is the key process of training the most cherished primates to get used to human beings and preparing them to be tracked, habituation is not a month’s activity it can easily go up to 3 years before being official for normal tracking. Uganda has about 5000 chimpanzees and 1500chimpanzees are found in this tremendous forest. It requires one to wake very early and begin the journey to the jungle at 6:30 am with experienced trackers and also joined by researchers and photographers who may need to spend more time with the chimpanzees, the activity lasts for about 6 hours and it’s always key to book the activity in time at least 3 months earlier

Birding

Over 375 bird species are recorded in Kibale National Park with one of Uganda’s most sought-after birds, the olive long-tailed cuckoo, and African and Green-breasted pitta. Birding in Kibale national park happens all year round, and like all other park activities, all tourists shall be accompanied by one of the expert guides.It requires one to wake very early and begin the journey to the jungle at 6:30 am with experienced trackers and also joined by researchers and photographers who may need to spend more time with the chimpanzees, the activity lasts for about 6 hours and it’s always key to book the activity in time at least 3 months earlier

Nature Walks

Apart from the primates, tourists can pick some interest in other residents like the rich historical vegetation, butterflies, and forest elephants which are primarily chaotic and makes sense as to why a ranger guide gives a company the tourists, the forest hogs, and many amphibians and reptiles are also among expectations while having a walk. The park also offers night nature walks that give a chance to see those nocturnal like tree hyraxes and bush babies.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Kibale Park is most famous for its shooting populations of chimpanzees worldwide, and chimpanzee tracking is becoming the most popular activity and ultimate highlight for visitors. For quite some time of conservation and habituation, chances of seeing the chimpanzees rose to about 95%. The activity is twice done in a day and it takes 2-6 hours depending on the location of the animals, slightly different from gorilla tracking. The trek is formulated by a group of 6 tourists accompanied by a ranger guide. It’s a fascinating experience as joy covers the faces and that love for conserving for future generations shall never fade.

Community Visits

Perfectly located in a most traditional region surrounded by various tribes and green vegetation, tourists are chanced to interact with the communities around the park like Bigodi as they have different explanations about their way of living and blissfully enjoying the cultural dances, the Bigodi swamp walk is also a mind freshener for birding and primate viewing

How to reach Kibale National Park?

BY ROAD

The easiest route is driving from Kampala to Kibale via the Mityana route which may cost you 6 hours of driving. However, there are several connections between Queen Elizabeth and Hoima depending on where you are coming from

BY AIR

The park is connected by either scheduled or charter flights from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi airstrip and Murchison falls national park landing to Kasese Airstrip. The flights don’t exceed 2 hours which makes it easier and flexible.

EXPLORE UGANDA

Explore Uganda

Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” is a treasure trove of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Located in the heart of East Africa, Uganda is a premier tourist destination, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Uganda’s natural beauty is breathtaking. The majestic Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” offer stunning views and exciting hiking trails. Lake Victoria, the world’s second-largest freshwater lake, and the Great Nile River provide breathtaking scenery and exciting water sports.

The country’s diverse wildlife is another major draw.

Uganda is home to over 1,000 species of birds, including the iconic shoebill stork and the grey crowned crane. National parks like Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, and Bwindi Impenetrable offer a chance to see iconic African wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo. Uganda is also home to a large population of mountain gorillas, with guided treks available in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Uganda’s rich cultural heritage is also on display. With over 50 ethnic groups, each with their own unique customs, traditions, and languages, visitors can experience the country’s vibrant cultural scene by visiting local villages, attending cultural festivals, and learning about the country’s history and traditions.

In conclusion, Uganda is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the beauty and wonder of Africa. With its incredible natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Uganda offers an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Uganda Safaris

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Uganda Destinations

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Tanzania is an East African country, popular for her exciting safari destinations and wildernesses. The country is a gateway to the gigantic Indian Ocean with captivating beaches that showcase breathtaking blue waters and the white sands at the coast. Tanzania is a home to the highest mountain on the African continent and also hosts the great wildebeest migration that attracts masses from all corners of the world.

The warm and unique cultures of the country and its local people further make the country a good place to go for safaris due to exciting experiences provided while in their land.

Wildebeest migration safaris in Tanzania

Tanzania, especially the northern region is dominated by dry Savannah grasslands which are a favorable grazing ground for wildebeests and other animal species. Wildebeests usually migrate between southern Kenya and northern Tanzania in the national parks of Masai Mara and Serengeti respectively. Thousands of wildebeests migrate in search for water and greener pastures in between the two national parks.

It is in this time that travelers get the opportunity to observe these wildebeests in large numbers alongside other animals and take pictures of them which help them reminisce the good time spent in the country.

The best national parks to visit in Tanzania

Due to her vast size and dominance by savannah grasslands and woodlands in the various parts of the country, Tanzania has over the years gazetted conservation areas to help curb the loss of the wild animals together with their habitat to human activities. The best of the gazetted national parks travelers can visit while in Tanzania incorporate;

Serengeti National Park

This exciting outback is located in the northern part of Tanzania, it’s a renowned home to the big 5 animals and popular as well since it’s the host of the great wildebeest migration. Serengeti is a UNESCO World Heritage site protecting a variety of flora and fauna species that are endemic to East Africa. Serengeti National Park was established in 1951 and is currently seated on an area of approximately 14,763 square kilometres that are covered with dry savanna grasslands, shrubs and woodlands which make it a good habitat for the wild animals.

Kilimanjaro National Park

Kilimanjaro National Park is a true definition of a gem of beauty in East Africa. The park is a home to the famous Mount Kilimanjaro which has the Africa’s highest point with breathtaking beauty since it’s covered with snow at the top.

The park is home to various animals especially the African Bush elephants, African buffaloes, southern cheetahs, common warthogs, elands, hippos, serval cats, spotted hyenas and baboons. Kilimanjaro National Park is seated on an area of roughly 1688 square kilometers in Moshi. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site that was designated because of the biodiversity it hosts.

Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is a renowned habitat for the tree climbing lions, soda ash at Lake Manyara, Pink flamingos and other captivating wildlife species. These can be seen on game drives that are conducted on a daily by the Rangers of the national parks and tourist guides in the state-of-the-art safari vehicles to aid visitors to observe the endowments of the National Park. Lake Manyara National Park covers an area of about 325 square kilometers in the great Rift Valley.

Ngorongoro National park

This magnificent National Park is located in Ngorongoro district in the central parts of Tanzania. Seated on an area of approximately 264 square kilometers, Ngorongoro conservation area is home to a variety of animals including the African Bush elephants, spotted hyenas, cheetahs, African buffaloes, lions and leopards.

The conservation area is also a host to Olduvai Gorge also known as the cradle of mankind which is one of the paleo anthropological sites in the whole world. Visitors travel to this National Park to learn more about the history of mankind and also set their eyes on some of the remains of the early man. Ngorongoro National Park is the host to the world’s largest unfilled, intact and inactive volcano.

Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park was established in 1970 to protect the variety of wandering wild animals in the northern provinces of Tanzania. The National Park occupies an area of approximately 2850 square kilometers and harbors several species of biodiversity which travelers can set their eyes on when in the park.

The animals in Tarangire National Park include the big 5 animals, baboons, wildebeests, hartebeests, Defassa waterbucks and a handful of birdlife. These usually converge along the Tarangire river since it’s the main source of water in the National Park. Therefore, visitors driving along can have the opportunity to observe them.

Flying safaris in Tanzania

Tanzania is a popular destination amongst travelers for its improved service delivery in the tourist destinations. Flying safaris are conducted in the country to help travelers save time spent in transition to the tourist destinations and therefore have more time to explore the beauty of the country, seeing animals and enjoying the variety of tourist activities.

Flying safaris are usually conducted by the luxury travelers. They are conducted between destinations and also help the guests observe more of the endowments in the natural areas since they are viewing from above. The aerial view allows the visitors to spot even the animals that cannot be viewed on land especially those that prefer to hide deeper in the bushes. Flying safaris therefore give not only more exciting experiences but also informative journeys. Flying safaris are booked through the registered tour operators in the country who help organize the necessary requirements on behalf of the traveler.

Culture tours in Tanzania

The Tanzanian culture is a mixture of over 100 tribes with somewhat similar practices and looks. It is indeed a culturally diverse country though there are some notable tribes among the many since they are way above others in terms of tradition, exciting facts and the entire way of life. Over 120 languages are spoken in Tanzania though Kiswahili and English are the commonly used ones.

Tanzanians have an interesting local music taste; they play exciting sets of musical instruments to come up with sensational beats that they dance to. The musical instruments include the Ngoma marimba, coconut shell fiddles, Filimbi name them. The Tanzanian land is highly dominated by the Masai, Hadza, Chaga, Sukuma and Makonde people.

Beach safaris in Tanzania

The Tanzania offshore extends to the Indian Ocean, an opportunity that is not taken for granted by travelers. Several beaches have been developed along the coast to enhance the enjoyment and experiences travelers get when they visit Zanzibar. Some of the most exciting beaches are Nungwi, Paje, Stonetown beaches, Kendwa and Kiwengwa.

What to pack for a safari in Tanzania?

Travelers embarking on their journeys in Tanzania are advised to pack appropriately and carry with them ideal personal things to help improve on their experiences and have untroubled journeys. They should endeavor to carry with them things encompassing; Hats for sun protection, insect repellents to keep the biting insects away, ideal clothes especially light clothes, long sleeved shirts and trousers.

Travelers should also endeavor to carry shoes especially boots to help them maneuver through the challenging terrain in the national parks, medication for first aid for some simple health issues, cameras to capture the moments, binoculars to help the traveler view animals that are both near and far, laptops and travel adapters to keep the gadgets functioning.

Kenya safaris are most popular for their intimate awe-inspiring and signature travel experiences.

In Kenya alone, there are over 40 National Parks and Game Reserves all offering refuge to diversity of wildlife species. Each of these protected areas has something distinct for Kenya safari holidaymakers to explore and experience. Safaris in Kenya offer the unbeatable Great Migration, Big 5 game viewing and authentic African experiences.

The savanna wilderness experiences are accompanied with beach experiences in the country’s finest coastal beaches, landscape exploration characterized by the Great Rift Valley, mountains and vast rainforests. This is an all year-round destination, an African safari destination that guarantees exhilarating wildlife experiences, thrilling outdoors and breathtaking landscapes. Combine your diverse experiences with the enriching cultural encounters as you unearth the unique cultures and traditions of the Kenyan people.

The Wildebeest Migration Safaris in Kenya

Nothing leaves you mesmerized like embarking on the Great wildebeest migration safari. This is remarkably complete immersion into the wild, encounter millions of wildebeest accompanied by 1000s of zebras, gazelles, and other species. Kenya’s Great Migration takes place in Masai Mara in the Southwestern part of the country.

The most powerful of all is the River crossing; keep eyes on over 1.5 million wildebeest as they find themselves out of the infested Nile crocodile Mara River. The journey starts from Serengeti National Park and these mammals cross over to the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.

It is a circular journey, determined by rainfall patterns. The primarily reason why this world’s spectacle occurs is due to need for pasture and water by wildebeest.

Migration by months.

January, February and March (Birthing/Calving season)

The wildebeest move south from the Maasai Mara National Reserve (MMNR), and Northern Serengeti. The migration continues up to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, home to Ngorongoro Crater. The grass grows longer and fresh after rains and wildebeest mothers in need for nutritious grasses are attracted to this area. The conditions of the environment aid in gestation and for the mothers to raise their newborns.

April, May and June (Mating season)

Unlike some calves, newborn wildebeests can stand immediately they are born and can start moving with the herd within a few days. Within a month/2, around April, the herds start migrating northwestwards the grasses of the Serona/central Serengeti NP. They are join 1000s antelopes and zebras.

The mating season starts around May and it is during this period when males can be witness battling for mating rights.

July, August and September (The Great Migration)

Huge herds of wildebeest can be witnessed heading to the North and spilt off with some taking the Grumati Reserve side while majority proceed to the Northern Serengeti National Park. It is this flock that is witnessed in the Maasai Mara National Reserve.

Around July, 1000s of wildebeest accompanied by zebras, congregate into huge numbers and this is an ideal period to witness the River Crossing at Mara River in Kenya. As they try crossing, there are crocodiles lurking beneath the waters. It is estimated that more than 250,000 wildebeest die during the migration months.

Around late July and August, most of the wildebeest herds cross the Mara and Talek Rivers. you can view several movement clearly along the Northern area. Around September, the River crossings get diminished and huge flocks are witnessed heading eastwards in search of new and fresher grasses.

Best National Parks to visit in Kenya

Masai Mara

Basting of its sprawling savannas, rolling hills and dramatic river crossing not forgetting the unforgettable big five game encounters, Maasai Mara National Reserve is amazingly East Africa’s premier travel destination. This powerful nature reserve is set in the Southwestern Kenya, expanding up to 1510sq.km and protects a huge concentration of wildlife and birdlife.

Masai Mara is contiguous with Tanzania’s Serengeti NP, and takes its name from the Maasai people. Established in 1961, Masai Mara protects variety of wildlife including cheetahs, leopards, lions, and African bush elephants. The reserve covers key areas such as Ol Chorro Oirowua, Kerinkani, Maji Moto, Lemek, Kimintet, Ol Derkesi, Koiyaki, Naikara, Mara North, and Siana. The popular experiences to enjoy while in Masai Mara include the Great Migration, game drives, birding, hot air balloon safaris and guided nature walks.

Lake Nakuru National Park

Most popular as a beautiful wildlife haven, Lake Nakuru National Park is along the Great Rift Valley region and features bushy grassland. This park is most popular for its huge flocks of the pink flamingos, majority of which concentrate around Lake Nakuru. Other species to look out for at Lake Nakuru NP include the Rothschild giraffes, impalas, lions, waterbucks, rhinos and plenty of other bird species.

Amboseli National Park

Lying at the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli NP is one of the most famous destinations in Kenya. This compact boasts of its huge herds of elephants, Kudus, cheetahs, wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, crocodiles, and several bird species. Amboseli NP is in Loitoktok District which is part of the rift valley province. Game viewing is amazingly the must-do activity while on Kenya safari.

Flying Safaris in Kenya

Enjoy aerial views of Kenya’s most spectacular game parks on our extra-ordinary savanna fly in safaris. Flying safaris are the most excellent way to getting to your destination from the heart of Nairobi city or upon arrival at one of the airports in Kenya. There are several flying safaris that can be arranged in Kenya and include the Masai Mara safari, Amboseli fly in safaris, Lake Nakuru, Samburu, Tsavo and many others.

What to pack?

The must-pack items for Kenya safari include safari hat, safari shoes, first aid kit, sun protection, a camera, insect repellents, bottle water, travel adaptors, binoculars, and other items.

Beach safaris in Mombasa/Diani

If you are looking for the most beach-friendly holiday destination, then you have every reason to be at diani. this is most popular for its coral reefs, myriad restaurants, hotels, black and white colobus monkeys, and is situated not far from shimba hills national reserve.

From mombasa to diani is about 5-5 minutes on a ferry. some of the experiences worth considering while at diani; deep sea diving, deep sea fishing, explore kaya kinondo forest, eco bike rides, visit the shimoni slave caves and others.

Tips for planning Kenya safaris

Curate your travel plans or itinerary.
Get the timing right depending on what you plan to explore –the Great migration, big five game or mountaineering.
Carry the right camera for photo taking.
Deal with an experienced tour operator on ground.
Get your paperwork in order.
Pack appropriately –include insect repellents, safari shoes, safari hats, etc.

Kenya Safaris

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THE BEST OF UGANDA SAFARIS

Uganda safaris are a captivating safari destination offering unique blend of diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife and rich cultural experiences. It is filled with breathtaking landscapes of Rwenzori mountains, rich wildlife diversity of array of wildlife. These include the big five, gorilla trekking experiences where you come face to face with the majestic primates.

Birding and culture safaris in Uganda

With over 1,000 birds, Uganda is birder’s paradise. Cultural richness with local communities such as Batwa and Karamojong, primate encounters, boat safaris and off the beaten path adventures filled with fun and memories.

What is the best activity on Uganda safaris

One of the iconic activities to do while in Uganda is gorilla trekking, this involves encountering with the endangered mountain gorillas within their natural habitat. This is a one life time experience drawing adventures and wildlife enthusiast from around the globe.

Gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda

Gorilla Trekking is a rare and privileged opportunity to share moments with these gentle giants in their natural environment. This fosters a deep connection with nature as well as contributing to the ongoing conservation of these incredible primates.

Gorilla trekking Destinations on Uganda safaris

Bwindi impenetrable and Mgahinga gorilla national park are the two notable national parks where you get to experience this awesome experience.

Bwindi impenetrable national park is a UNESCO heritage site located in southwestern Uganda is unique for its exceptional bio diversity and most notable as a sanctuary for endangered gorillas. It is home to almost half of the remaining world’s remaining gorillas and providing exceptional gorilla trekking experiences. In Bwindi, you are sure that you will see these primates since they are divided into various gorilla families within designated gorilla sectors.

How is Gorilla trekking done on Uganda safaris

Briefing before the trek

Gorilla trekking starts early in the morning with a pre trek briefing session. Here you are told on the do’s and don’ts during the activity. You then separate into groups of eight and assigned a gorilla family to trek.

Enroute with a ranger guide

An experienced guide leads you through thickets in search of these gorillas taking about 2 to 3 hours within the jungle.

Encounter mountain gorillas

Once you encounter these primates, you are given one hour to be in their presence as you observe and learn about different ways of how they do their daily activities of feeding and staying with one another.

Time with gorillas

You are allowed to take a few snaps without flashlights to keep for memories.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga gorilla national park is located in southwestern Uganda found on the border with Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo.

It is characterized with stunning and lush volcanic landscapes dominated by dormant volcanoes of Muhabura, Sabyinyo and Gahinga at the backdrop.

Similar to Bwindi impenetrable national park, Mgahinga is home to Nyakagezi gorilla family and visitors come to this place majorly for gorilla trekking. You can as well engage in golden monkey trekking since its home to a variety of these primates.

Trekking Gorillas in Mgahinga National Park

Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga national park is a captivating and iconic adventure that provides a unique opportunity to encounter gorillas within their natural habitat.

Gorilla trekking begins in the morning at the foothills of Virunga amidst the three dormant volcanoes of Gahinga, Sabyinyo and Muhabura. The park is home to one habituated gorilla family which makes the experience more intimate, less crowded and exclusive compared to larger parks.

Tourists are accompanied by experienced UWA guides through the jungle in search of the gorillas amidst challenging terrain ranging between 2 to 3 hours offering insights into the park’s flora and fauna.

Once you get to encounter the gorilla group, trekkers are allowed one hour to be in their presence as you observe and take a few snaps of the gorillas giving you an up-close experience providing a profound connection with these remarkable creatures.

In Mgahinga, you get to experience a peaceful sound of the gorillas creating a unique and immersive atmosphere during the whole encounter.

TOP 10 ACTIVITIES TO DO WHILE ON UGANDA SAFARIS

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga national parks.
Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale national park
Game drives in Queen Elizabeth national park
Boat safaris on Kazinga channel.
Visiting the source of River Nile in Jinja.
Cultural encounters in Kidepo Valley National Park
Island exploration on lake Bunyonyi
Visiting Sipi falls on the slopes of Mount. Elgon.
Visiting the orphaned chimps at Ngamba island sanctuary
Rhino tracking in Ziwa rhino sanctuary
Visiting the powerful waterfalls in Murchison falls national park
Hiking mountain Rwenzori in mount Rwenzori national park
Horseback riding in lake Mburo national park
Birding at Mabamba swamp and Semuliki national park
Hot spring visits at Semliki national park.

Best time to go for Uganda safaris

The best time to do safaris in Uganda depends on one’s interests. The dry seasons of the year are the best seasons for safaris in general.

Best time to do gorilla trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking is best during the dry months of June, August, December and February.

The best time to do bird watching in Uganda

Bird watching works best in wetter months of March, May, September and November.

The best time for photography safaris in Uganda

Landscape photography suits best in wet season months of March, May, September and November.

Budget and private Uganda safaris

If you are interested in a quieter experience with few visitors around, consider visiting Uganda during the months of November, March, May and September.