Uganda earned its status as a bucket list destination thanks
to the country’s most famous residents, the majestic mountain gorilla. The
thrill of trekking through Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and spending time
in the presence of these extraordinary animals draws travelers from around the
world, but there’s so much more to Uganda than awe-inspiring apes.
This astonishingly diverse country which Winston Churchill
famously dubbed the ‘Pearl of Africa’ is also home to tree-climbing lions, some
of the rarest bird species on the planet like the African-Green Broadbill
and the spectacular natural scenery that will leave you in awe.
Are you an animal activists or you are a conservationist, or you are just a nature lover or both, If you’re ready to start planning the ultimate Uganda
itinerary, read on for a list of remarkable experiences from wildlife viewing
to cultural attractions that can’t be missed.
Elephant surrounded by grass and trees in Uganda
Spot four of the Big Five on safari in Uganda- © Godfrey
Elasmus.
1. Chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest Reserve
Chimpanzee trekking offers a completely different experience
to a traditional gorilla trekking tour. Rather than observing gentle giants in
a quiet, intimate setting, you’ll follow a boisterous group of chimps as they
leap and scamper through Budongo Forest Reserve, heading in whatever direction
the agile animals lead you.
The reserve is home to nearly 700 of these playful primates
including six groups habituated for trekking. Knowledgeable guides follow the
chimps’ daily movements and lead groups of up to six people into their habitat.
Much like on a gorilla trek, it can take anywhere from 30
minutes to a full day to locate a group of chimpanzees, which provides ample
time for participants to learn about the forest’s ecology before spending an
hour watching a chimp family play and go about their daily lives in the wild.
Chimpanzee swinging from tree branches in Uganda
Add chimpanzee trekking to your Uganda itinerary-© Godfrey
Elasmus.
2. Look up for the tree-climbing lions in Queen
Elizabeth National Park
Not only is Queen Elizabeth National Park home to four of
the Big Five safari animals (lion, leopard, elephant, and Cape buffalo), it’s
also one of the few places on the continent where you can see a wonderfully
rare wildlife sighting: tree-climbing lions.
the wide branches of acacia and sycamore fig trees to catch a cool breeze and
avoid insect bites on the ground-a unique behavior that’s rarely exhibited in
other lion populations. If your safari guide shouts “lions!” in this region,
remember to look up rather than out at the grasslands.
equator. Monuments on both sides of the road mark the exact spot of latitude
00, a perfect photo opportunity.
Lion in the grass in Uganda
Look for lions on the ground and up in trees in Queen
Elizabeth National Park-©Godfrey Elasmus
3. Spot rare bird species in Uganda’s parks
If you’re a birding enthusiast, prepare to be wowed: Uganda
is home to more than half of Africa’s bird species, and it’s one of the richest
birding destinations on the continent. Visitors from across the globe flock to
Uganda hoping to get a glimpse of more than 1,000 species, including several
found nowhere else on Earth.
as 200 species in a single day. Keep an eye out for the prehistoric-looking
shoebill stork, considered one of the most desirable bird sightings in Africa;
the colorful African green broadbill found in Bwindi Impenetrable National
Park; and one of the world’s rarest birds: the elusive Shelley’s crimson wing
(which can be found in Bwindi and Kibale National Park).
Uganda is an excellent destination for birding enthusiasts.
4. Ride the Nile to Murchison Falls
Majestic waterfalls draw visitors to Murchison Falls
National Park, and a boat trip along the Nile River to their base is one of
Uganda’s signature wildlife activities.
personal with an abundance of wildlife, including hippos, Nile crocodiles,
elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and plenty of birds.
safari, along with incredible photo opportunities. An early boat trip in the
cooler morning hours is often followed by an afternoon game drive and
sundowners, while a morning game drive and bush breakfast set the stage for an
afternoon boat trip.
Murchison Falls, Uganda -©Godfrey Elasmus
5. Whitewater rafting on the Nile
When it comes to adrenaline-fueled activities in Uganda,
look no further than Jinja, the undisputed adventure capital of East Africa.
kayaking and bungee jumping-nothing is more thrilling than whitewater rafting
on the Nile. This mighty river boasts class 1-6 rapids, making it an ideal
activity for first-time rafters, families, and adrenaline junkies looking for
an unforgettable adventure.
float, swimming in the river’s warm pools along the way, while those opting for
higher class rapids can set off on a heart-pounding adventure filled with
plenty of thrills and spills.
The Nile River, Uganda
6. Get buzzed on a coffee safari
Uganda is quickly becoming the next up-and-coming
destination for specialty coffee in East Africa thanks to its high-quality
Arabica coffee plants.
A coffee safari in the Sipi Falls region or the Buhoma
sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a fantastic way to learn about
the country’s burgeoning coffee industry (and get your caffeine fix at the same
time).
give visitors the chance to explore coffee farms, meet local farmers, and learn
about the stages of production from field to cup. Of course, a sample of the
plantation’s finest brew is included as well.
Experience the beauty of Uganda’s rural regions-©Godfrey Elasmus.
7. Experience the culture of rural communities
Uganda’s culture is defined by its colorful communities and
more than 50 distinct ethnic groups. Each area of the country offers
opportunities for visitors to interact with locals and learn about their unique
customs and livelihoods.
National Park offer a glimpse into the living history of this tribe that once
called Uganda’s forests home. The Batwa are one of the oldest surviving
communities in Africa and have preserved many of their traditions.
The Ik reside on Mount Morungole
near Kidepo Valley National Park and welcome visitors who partake
in a challenging day-long hike to their isolated home.
Ik have been able to maintain their ancestral customs dating back
thousands of years and willingly share these with visitors keen to make the
trek.
Head to www.interiorsafarisea.com now to explore a range of Uganda tours, and
get ready to cross these bucket list-worthy adventures off your list-©Godfrey Elasmus
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