Big Game Wildlife Safaris

A Game drive is a journey and highlight of any safari in a vehicle giving the opportunity to observe and experience the natural beauty of Uganda the Pearl of Africa and see wildlife natural surroundings or Habitats.

Safari game drives to Uganda’s national parks and game reserves can be guided drives in specialized game drive vehicles led by professional rangers / guides to explain the wildlife and surroundings. Game drives can also be through self-drives. Rangers are usually on radio contact to share sightings with rangers in other vehicles also out in the same area in most National Parks and Game Reserves, Sightings are shared and there may be a dozen or more vehicles vying for the best spot at a sighting. 

In East Africa, game drives tend to happen in 4WD Land Cruisers, with rooftops that can be lifted so one can stand to get an unobstructed view of the animals. This puts you at a nice height for game viewing and gives you some stability for photography using the roof of the Vehicle.

With 10 national parks, various large and small game reserves and an endowment of natural resources, largely covered by vegetation and huge expanses of tropical forests which are rich in flora and fauna; and unique physical landscapes, lakes and rivers, Uganda has always been home to a diverse wildlife that forms a bedrock of Uganda’s tourism industry.

Uganda boasts of over 330 mammal species, of which none are critically endangered, 7 are endangered, 21 are vulnerable, and 17 are near-threatened. The wealth of invertebrate life of more than 100,000 species has been identified countrywide and an astonishing 1,200 butterfly species, including almost 50 endemics, have been recorded, not forgetting bird-life of over 1,000 specifies including the Albertine rift endemics. Here, both animals and nature are in complete harmony with each other. All Parks and Reserves in Uganda offer safe and excellent environment for safari opportunities and all visits are monitored and carefully protected by the Uganda Wildlife Authority with its team of rangers.

Every game drive is different which keeps things exciting but the format of a game drive is likely to be quite similar, wherever you are: The time of day will usually be early mornings, late afternoon or at night – the coolest times of the day when most animals are more active. With the length and distance will vary, game drives last around 3 to 4 hours, and will include a break. With luck you’ll see a mix of different wildlife sightings, with stops to take in and photograph each animal type. 

Game drives and views can be done at any period of the year, although many travelers prefer dry seasons (between January – April, and July – October), while others prefer wet seasons (between October – January and April – July)

Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda

Chimpanzees are man’s closest relatives sharing about 98.7% of the DNA. They adapt to their environments over time developing tools for survival much like humans. You can spend an hour with these creatures in their natural habitat by visiting one of the areas where the trekking happens in Uganda. You will be able to follow them with your ranger guide to get great pictures and learn more about the chimps.

In Uganda Chimpanzee Trekking takes Place at;

Kibale National Park is the primate capital of the world and the most magnificent Tropical Rain Forest offering a large chimpanzee population with over 120 habituated chimpanzees and 1400 in the forest. The success rate of locating chimpanzees while trekking is about 95%. The delightful apes are closest to humans than any other living creature. There are opportunities for Chimpanzee trekking twice each day and an all Day Chimpanzee Habituation Experience that allows you to accompany researchers and habituates to follow Chimpanzees during their daily activities; morning session starts at 7 am and afternoon at 12 pm with as many as 6 groups tracking each day each with 6 individuals. The forest is home to about 13 different primates including; black & white colobus, red-tailed monkey, red colobus monkeys, and baboons.

Kalinzu forest has about 40 Chimpanzees habituated for visitors but the forest is home to over 300 individuals. The rate of Chimps sighting while on a trek is about 60% but the forest has a lot to offer in addition to the chimpanzee trekking. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and flowing streams while on this chimpanzee trekking safari. This trek is usually long and therefore requires one to be with good fitness levels.

Budongo forest at the Kaniyo Pabidi section in Murchison falls national park offers a rewarding chimp trekking experience. The forest boasts of the largest population of Chimpanzees but only a few are habituated for tourism. Unlike Kibale where you need to book permits earlier, at Kaniyo Pabidi, you can inform the park rangers the day before your chimp trek.

Kyambura gorge is a remarkable underground rain forest in the middle of the otherwise Savannah park the famous Queen Elizabeth national park. The forest has few chimpanzees that are sometimes difficult to spot but the forest walk is rewarding and the views of the gorge from a look out are priceless. There are chances for one to come across Hippos and elephants as they look out for Chimps; and on rare occasions you could spot lions.

For those with limited time you can visit Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary for an up-close experience with Chimpanzees. The sanctuary is 45 minutes from the Entebbe pier on Lake Victoria on a speed boat and 1.5 hours on a motorized traditional canoe.

Chimpanzee trekking tips

You have to be 15 years and above to be allowed to trek chimps

Trousers and long sleeved shirts are recommended

Water proof boots or hiking shoes

Insect repellent

Carry bottled water for drinking

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Of the 800 or so individual mountain gorillas left in the world, half of these endangered species are found in Uganda.Gorilla trekking is one of the famous safari activities in Uganda. It has been observed that the population of mountain gorillas has increased thanks to the conservation efforts of various non-governmental and government support.

You can meet these wonderful animals on a Gorilla Safari in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National Parks in Uganda. The majority of the other half of the world’s mountain gorilla population are found in the Virunga complex (Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and the Virunga National Park in Democratic Republic of Congo respectively). These areas are safe for tourists and gorillas alike with minimal or no poaching incidences reported because of alternative sources of incomes available to communities in the area due to increase revenues from gorilla tourism.

Gorilla trekking happens in Bwindi impenetrable national Park and Mgahinga gorilla national park. Uganda currently has 21 gorilla families available for trekking. The trekking in Bwindi National Park is slightly different from Mgahinga National Park because of the nature of the landscape. Bwindi is a rain forest with thick undergrowth and varying landscape, you will have experiences of both uphill and downhill on your hike. Bwindi is divided into different sectors each with a number of gorilla families. Before you book your lodge it is important to know which sector you will track because the location is quite far apart. The sectors are Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga sectors.

In Mgahinga the gorillas are mainly found in the mid vegetation on the Virunga volcanoes in Mgahinga gorilla national park especially in the open areas of the bamboo zone.

The mountain gorillas are often found in the undergrowth feeding on the vegetation as they rest and or groom each other. The leader of each gorilla family or group is a silver-back which is very protective of the family, if frustrated it will grunt and beat its chest before moving off with the females, offspring and mature males.

To enjoy the experience of gorilla trekking, you need to prepare adequately starting with choice of tour operator to plan the entire safari, lodges and purchase of gorilla permits. The minimum age for trekking gorillas is 15 years. You require to purchase your permit much earlier especially if you want a specific date because only 8 people can trek a gorilla family per day.

Gorilla trekking safari preparation tips

• Uganda is a tropical country with unpredictable climate, rain gear is a must have.
• Insect repellent
• Recommended clothing, long trousers and long sleeved sweaters or shirts while in the forest to avoid insect and plant stings.
• Sturdy hiking boots are essential, especially ones you have used before.
• Drinking water, however eating, drinking and smoking near the gorillas is strictly forbidden, your guide will communicate designated time and place.
• Photography is permitted, although you must not use flash
• Porters are available to help you carry your day-pack for a small charge.
• You will not be allowed to trek gorillas if you have communicable disease like flu or cough

Mountain gorillas live at high altitude and this may cause difficulties in hiking up for some visitors. You should pace yourself, walk slowly, drink plenty of water and prepare adequately for this experience. Uganda Adventure safaris will purchase your gorilla trekking permits for you in advance for proper planning.

PRIMATE SAFARIS

Uganda is home to 20 primate species with Kibale National Park containing the highest density in all of Africa with a total of 13 including the recently discovered Dwarf Galago. As well as the chimpanzee and gorilla, the black-and-white colobus, red-tailed monkey, grey-cheeked mangabey, l’Hoest’s and blue monkeys, and olive baboons can be seen during game drives, launch trips or nature walks, along with smaller nocturnal species such as the bush baby and potto. Mgahinga National Park is home to another endangered species: the golden monkey. These furry, comical monkeys live high up in bamboo forests. Tracking golden monkeys is very similar to tracking gorillas, but the trek itself is not quite as challenging.

Bwindi Impenetrable National park offers mountain Gorilla Visits, However one can also find other primates such as L’hoest monkeys, gray-cheeked Mangabeys, and blue monkeys.

Patas monkeys roam around Murchison Falls National Park. Queen Elizabeth National Park has blue monkeys and red-tailed monkeys (not to mention non-primates, like lions and elephants).

Black-and-white colobus monkeys are among the most frequently spotted species. The name “colobus” means “mutilated” in Greek, as, unlike other primates, they are lacking thumbs. The troops of 5-10 individuals are easily seen in the branches as a result of their striking coloring – black with long white hair running from the shoulders to rump, and white tufts at the ends of their long tails. Infants are born pure white.

The Olive Baboons are wide spread and common in Uganda and in fringes of forest reserves. They live in large groups and are regularly seen along roadsides where they wait to ambush cars in search of food. They spend more time on the ground than most other primate species, but sleep in trees at night. If water is scarce, they can survive for long periods by licking the dew from their fur.

Visiting Africa’s primates is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding adventures. We organize a face to face encounter with these fascinating and intelligent primates live in the forests and mountains of Uganda and Rwanda in East Africa.

Mountain Climbing & HIKING 

Uganda has a lot to offer when it comes to mountain climbing, hiking and walking through exquisite scenery with routes that suite all levels of fitness. There are shorter, easier hikes like the half day hikes through Villages and beautiful hikes through villages and beautiful hills, to serious climbers requiring technical skill thus one should not miss the adrenaline adventure.

The Rwenzori Mountains are found along the border of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, covering a length of 120km and width of 65km. They have Africa’s third highest mountain, Mt. Stanley that stands at 5109m, and are also one of the only three on the continent which are permanently snow-capped peaks. The Rwenzori support an array of rare and endemic wildlife, stunning glaciers, beautiful waterfalls, rivers and lakes. Basing on the stunning beauty and block type formation, the Rwenzori were ranked the best in Africa and ninth in the world for mountain climbing and hiking adventures. There are a number of trails travelers can take for exciting treks into the mountain. The longest trail, called the Central Circuit, is 8 days (7 nights) and includes the chance to climb to the highest peak of Margherita for those who can manage. There are other shorter trails that offer easier treks such as the 3 day Mahoma loop, 1 day Chimpanzee trail and 1 day Kilembe trail. You will be accompanied by a guide who knows the best routes that lead to the summit of the different Mountains

Mountain Elgon’s 4321m, lies in Eastern Uganda on the border with Kenya,

Mountain Elgon, 4321m lies in eastern Uganda on the border with the Western part of Kenya. It has the largest Volcanic based in the World and is a massive solitary volcanic mountain. Its highest peak Wagagai is situated on the Ugandan side. It was one time, thousands of years ago, Africa’s highest mountain but was gradually eroded at the peak reducing it to the current height of 4321m – 8th in Africa, 4th in East Africa. The mountain also possesses the largest caldera in the world measuring 50km by 80km. Its Mountainous regional landscape and cool heights offer respite for humans from the hot plains below and its higher altitudes provide refuge for flora and fauna.

The Mountain is home to over 300 bird species, small antelopes, Forest monkeys, elephants and buffaloes which also live on the mountain side. Climbing Mountain Elgon is not simply targeting to reach the summit, but more about discovering the fascinating wildlife along the slopes. The varied vegetation zones harbor plenty of wildlife that you may encounter during the trek. Incase you are a lucky hiker you will enjoy being amongst the park’s primates, birds and rare tree species. These trails lead past caves, viewpoints and waterfalls, with the option of Camping overnight on the Mountain slopes.

With a milder climate and lower elevation, the Climb requires no special equipment or technical experience.

There are two major trails that lead to the peaks, taking 4 to 5 days. One is called the Sasa trail (Budadiri trail head), accessible from Mbale, is the more direct to the peaks and goes through the largest area of bamboo forest. The second trail is called Piswa and is known to be a more gentle hike than the Sasa.

The Sipi Falls is situated along the foothills of Mountain Elgon and is a set of three waterfalls (85m, 75m and 100m) high. They arguably are the most beautiful waterfalls in Uganda and have become one of the iconic attractions of the eastern region. Sipi, easily accessible from Kampala, has become very popular for day hikes. The trek to visit all the three waterfalls covers a trail of about 7km and on average takes up to 3 hours to complete.

Virunga Volcanoes

Uganda shares 3 of the main 8 Virunga mountain volcanoes. The 3 are located in southwestern Uganda along the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They offer excellent day hikes filled with some of the best views in Africa. The Virungas harbor lots of unique and rare wildlife which you have chance of encountering such as the Mountain Gorillas, Golden Monkeys, endemic birds and mountain vegetation.

Muhabura (4127m):It starts the chain of the Virunga, situated on the Rwanda – Uganda border. It is longer hike to the summit taking about 5 hours which makes it tough, and coming down takes roughly the same. It has a small crater lake at the summit which can easily circumnavigated to get access to views across the Virunga ranges.

Mgahinga (3474m); This is a much smaller mountain of the three, situated between Muhavura and Sabinyo, but closer to former. It is a short and easier hike. It is bigger Crater Lake at the summit which isn’t so easy to circumnavigate to gain better views.

Sabinyo (3645m); This is situated on the common border of the three countries Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo. It is the most challenging of the three because of a more rugged terrain with many craters, but most fun and has the best views of the Virungas stretching across all the three countries. It has three peaks which look like three spaced teeth, hence the local name Sabinyo which translates “Old Man’s Teeth”.

Morungole Mountain ranges rise from the plains a few kilometers north of Apoka in Kidepo Valley National Park. With the highest peak in Kidepo at 2,749m, can be explored on foot with a ranger guide.

Top of the Falls Hike in Murchison Falls National Park to hear, feel and see the Victoria Nile bisect the National Park, racing Westwards for 80Km over a series of Rapids before exploding through a narrow 6m gap in the remnant Rift Valley cliffs. This 45m Plunge drains the last of the river’s energy transforming the torrent into a broad, placid stream that flows quietly across the rift valley floor towards Lake Albert. The view point can be reached by vehicle but is more rewarding to disembark from the launch Cruise on the Nile

UGANDA COMMUNITY TOURS AND VISITS

The money you spend during your trip can have a huge impact on local communities and on the future of the country’s natural heritage. For communities in and around Uganda’s protected areas, well planned tourism can create employment and improve livelihoods, providing local people with an incentive to defend and protect the ecosystems on which they and tourism activities depend.

Community Tourism includes tours, workshops, performances, dining, homesteads and accommodation, all of which are provided by the local community.

How does this benefit the community? 

These organizations are owned and managed by the local community, creating jobs in regions with few opportunities. They provide employment for people with a variety of skills, including drivers, cooks, guides, dancers, managers and service staff. Communities need to benefit from National Parks that border them by hiring local guides, buying locally made crafts or participating in a community Tourism experience thus contributing directly to the well being of that Community and encouraging its support for Conservation

A percentage of the income is often put into a community fund, which may be spent on health, education or conservation initiatives such as building a classroom or orphanage, reforesting areas of land or HIV awareness campaigns.

Visitors to community tourism projects experience a unique and authentic side of Ugandan life, as they eat traditional food, meet the villagers, play with the kids and are guided by experts who have lived here their whole lives.
A community tour or homestead is sure to provide one of the most meaningful memories of your Ugandan holiday!

How you can make a difference!

• Forest Walks that are conducted by Batwa Pygmy Guides in the Gorilla Highlands provide Insights into their traditional hunter – gatherer lifestyle while providing their Families with Income to survive in the modern world.
• When you enter one of Uganda’s National Parks,20 % of your entrance fees goes to the Communities bordering the Park.
• When Five Visitors learn how to weave a basket with the Kikorongo women’s group neighboring Queen Elizabeth National Park, they provide enough money to sustain a local house hold for two months.
• A visit to a manyattas (Kraal) near Kotido town in Karamoja helps the Red Cross to provide medical Services in this arid and underdeveloped part of Eastern Uganda

BIRD WATCHING SAFARIS

Uganda is one of the best countries in the world with an amazing diversity of Birds. The wide range of habitats in Uganda is reflected in the region’s bird list of over 1,000 species. The country is also home to a variety of Resident and migratory species. There are countless birding locations around Uganda including national parks, Important Birding Areas, Albertine Rift Valley, lakes, swamps, forests, savanna grassland, woodland, mountains and rivers. The most ideal time to spot these birds is actually early in the morning as well as late in the evenings

Some of the most sought-after species for birds are: Shoebill, African Green Broadbill, Green-breasted Pitta, Nahan’s Francolin, Brown-chested Plover, Karamoja Apalis, Black Bee-eater, Rwenzori Turaco, Red-fronted Antpecker, Purvell’s Illadopsis.

All our Uganda birding safari departures are guaranteed a skilled well-trained bird guide who has lots of knowledge about the rare bird species in Uganda and their locations to ensure that you get the best out of your birding tour.

White Water Rafting on the River Nile

Jinja East Africa’s Adventure Capital is home to some of the world’s finest grade 5 white water rafting and other adventure activities such as bungee jumping , kayaking, mountain biking and river boarding, all located at the source of the River Nile, the longest river in the world and the Best place to be for first-timer, family or high adventure enthusiasts.

The powerful volume of water creates some of the best and strongest rapids in the world that provide an unforgettable rafting experiences equivalent to that of the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe. The rafting trip starts in Jinja and day trips or two-day trips that cover (45km) with overnight camping. Top quality safety equipment and highly qualified and experienced guides run the largest rapids possible. Some areas are very exhilarating with space between to lay back and float along the Nile taking in the landscape and enjoying the nature, particularly the many species of birds found here.

What to carry with you on your White Water Rafting Activity: Swimsuit, a pair of sandals and shorts to wear on the river. You will get wet, so bring a change of outfits. Amenities exist for cameras to be protected from Water while on the river. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a grin.

Rafting Experience: You do not need any earlier rafting experience. The guides train the clients on all parts of safety and organize them for a memorable experience.
Safety Record: Rafting the Nile is 100% safe.

UGANDA CULTURAL SAFARIS

With over 56 distinct tribal groups, Uganda has a rich culture that is varied and full of Contrast. The country comprises of a diversity of tribes each with a unique way of life and rich history with a unique mixture of traditional Customs, norms, music, dance, art, dress code and local cuisine from different kingdoms spread across the country. The People of Uganda are ranked second in the world as the most hospitable, happy, warm, and welcoming.

Much as Uganda has a variety of wildlife, scenery and great climate to offer to the world, to gain a deeper insight of Uganda’s Cultural Heritage, immerse yourself with the locals and learn their way of life through participation and interacting with natives in their daily community activities.

Visitors are welcomed and entertained by the hospitable natives with melodramatic traditional performances with local musical instruments; accompanied with a hearty local cuisine. 

Uganda cultural safaris present you opportunities to explore and enjoy the unexplored indigenous Kingdoms and learn about their norms, traditional ceremonies, activities done as well as their past events. A guided tour around Kampala takes you to popular traditional sites like the Wamala & Kasubi tombs where the Kabakas of Buganda were buried, Kabaka’s lake, Namugongo martyrs shine, Namirembe cathedral, Kabaka’s palace , Ndere Cultural center , Craft shops, Nagalabi coronation site among others.

There are a variety of historical monuments and statues scattered within Kampala city presenting great personalities, historical events and many other significant situations in the nation’s past. The notable monuments include the independence monument, Kabaka Muteesa 1 statue, Sir. Apollo Kaggwa monument, the liberation statue among others.

A Uganda Cultural Tour to Eastern Uganda takes you to the Busoga Kyabazinga Palace, Mpumudde (Mpumwire) hill an important cultural site in Busoga. The hill is coronation site for the Busoga cultural leaders (Kyabazinga). It is also an important site in the history of Bunyoro- Kitara Kingdom, since it is where the Omukama Ikingura Chwa II Kabalega of Bunyororo – Kitara (1869-1899) rested from in 1923 on his way from exile, Nabamba Shrine Bujagali which is believed to be inhabited by powerful spirits that influence people’s lives, Sezibwa falls are located on Ssezibwa River. The people in the region of Buganda treat it with reverence due to its cultural and spiritual significance. Believers visit the falls to seek favors from the gods that are believed to dwell here and Sipi falls plus an amazing boat ride to the source of the Nile. Travel to explore northern Uganda culture into Luo region and meet up with the Karamajongs, Acholi & IK  whose unique way of dressing and body piercings make them stand out. Go down to western Uganda culture into the Ankole land for a chance to see the infamous long horned cattle or encounter the local Batwa pygmies. As well as proceed further to Kabarole District to experience your Cultural visit of the Toro Kingdom Palace at Karuziika, The Tombs as Burial Sites to the Kings and a Historical Mabere Ganyina mwiru for the Origin of the Chwezi Culture. Alos get to learn more about the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom when you get to visit the Bunyoro Kingdom

Undertake a cultural tour to Uganda’s museums to find out the historical tools and numerous artifacts that were used in the past. That is from the pre-cambrian ages to the recent past and the royal drums. Most of these found at the National museum and other regional museums

Uganda cultural safaris let you experience Uganda’s history and a great origin right from the pre-colonial Uganda up to the post-colonial Uganda. The pre-colonial Uganda includes viewing the ancient shrines, kingdoms and palaces, a thrilling narration about Uganda’s past on an evening camp fire.

Expect to take with you back home a locally Crafted Souvenir for your Memorable Cultural Tour

UGANDA FLY IN GORILLA & WILDLIFE SAFARIS

Uganda fly-in Safaris are set to help you avoid long driving distances when enjoying your holiday. Uganda tours and Safaris by Air with the use of light aircrafts are tailor-made based on budget, Interests and time constraints while maximizing time to get to your destinations and do your Requested Activities and relaxing at destinations all based on what you want. Propeller driven light aircrafts (Cessna Caravans) are used to transfer you from Destination to destination where professional guides are stationed to guide on your activities.

With scheduled and charter flights included on a  Uganda safari, One can Fly to Kidepo National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park and Kibale National Park from Entebbe and enjoy a Fly in Wildlife Adventure,  Fly in gorilla trekking Tour to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla Park,.  All fly-in Uganda tour packages are designed to deliver a memorable wildlife and primate experience with several transport means used within the parks.
There are scheduled flights organized to almost all the national parks by Aero Link, with daily departures to Kisoro, Kihihi, (Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park), Mweya, Kasese (Queen Elizabeth National Park, Rwenzori Mountains National Park, and Kibale Forest National Park), Semliki (Semliki National Park), Bugungu and Pakuba (Murchison Falls National park), Kidepo (Kidepo Valley National Park).

Charters can be organized to any part of the country, thus seek advice A choice collection of the top affordable andexciting Uganda fly-in wildlife safaris includingluxury fly in Uganda gorilla trekking tours, primate tracking safaris by air and wildlife safari flights, Fly in Uganda holidays and Uganda tours.

HORSE RIDING & HORSEBACK SAFARIS

Horse Riding Safari in Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda

There is no better feeling than experiencing a Horse riding safari in the wild heart of Lake Mburo National Park and get very close to wildlife and to become one with nature in a very special way of course as you are keeping a reasonable distance.  Exploring the wilderness on a horseback, gives a feeling of lighthearted freedom and sharing the endless vastness of the African wildlife.

To gallop side by side with zebra, giraffe is to truly feel a part of the herd without disturbing them is a unique and special experience. This is also certainly the most resource-friendly way to experience a Horse back safari. Without the noise of an engine you can hear so much more and you really feel part of nature. Riding a horse means you often get the chance to see the more timid animals. If you are very lucky you may see eland and buffalo. However, this is a very rare sighting. You will nearly always see a mixture of warthog, topi, impala, duiker, bushbuck, waterbuck and zebra. Of course the time of year and the weather do affect the number and variety of animals that you see, as the animals graze where the grass is the most delicious. Watching animals from a horse is so peaceful and a totally different experience from being on a game drive; zebras come towards you to check out the strange relative without stripes. Otherwise spending  a day out grazing on fresh grass often alongside zebra and impala Even the eland that are usually very shy, look curiously at the horses without running away, but keep their distance.

Rides are carefully adjusted according to your riding ability; for beginners and inexperienced riders we recommend that you only walk. If you are an advanced rider there are lovely stretches for trotting and cantering. Mihingo Lodge has been operating horse safaris since December 2008 outside Lake Mburo National Park. In November 2009, they received a concession to operate horse safaris inside the Park where some fantastic routes were found.

The most exhilarating ride in the Park recommended for more experienced riders is a 4 to 5 hour ride which takes one onto the grassy Warukiri range of hills that are situated in the middle of the park. From high on the Warukiri ridge there are stunning 360 degree views of the surrounding hills and valleys in the Park. On the furthest hill you will find a waterhole, where you just might see a herd of buffalo enjoying the cool air. There is a magnificent view onto 9 of the 12 lakes surrounding Lake Mburo National Park. This ride changes the whole feeling of Lake Mburo National Park as it is absolutely spectacular.

Note that;

• The maximum weight required to ride on the Horses is 100 kg, but most of the horses cannot carry more than 85kg. Expect to be weighed to ensure that the horses are not damaged by carrying people who are too heavy as this can seriously damage their backs.
• Fully adjustable helmets in all sizes as well as riding chaps are provided and Ridding is with English style saddles.
•  It is recommended to Wear long trousers and strong shoes if possible with a heel, but trainers are also fine.
• At the moment a maximum of 6 guests can be taken at a time.
• All rides are accompanied by at least one experienced horse guide, but in most cases there are 2 guides accompanying each ride.

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Horse riding in Jinja, Uganda

A horseback riding Vacation in Jinja provides the ideal way to immerse yourself in the Rural Ugandan Culture as you explore the Nile up close to see traditional Ugandan villages and view the fantastic panorama from the hills overlooking the Nile River banks. The landscape is spectacular, you will be in awe of the beauty of the area around the source of the River Nile through the stunning plantation vistas and relax.

Riding groups with mixed levels of experience all Groups to separate at certain points and More Competent Riders to ride at more advanced pace and those not confident to stay in their Comfort zone.

There is a Wide Range of sizes and breeds to suit everyone from beginners to advanced skill levels. Horses come when they are aged between 1 year and 3 years and are trained for about a year before the guides begin to ride them and at least a year and a half before clients ride them. The Horses are kept in immaculate conditions and are trained in competition disciplines as well as being safari horses. They are well behaved, safe and bomb-proof, making them a pleasure to ride.

With an array of options and there is just the right horse safari for even the most extraordinary taste.

Boat Safaris in Uganda

Boat cruise safaris & excursions in Uganda are done on the fresh waters of different Lakes and Rivers and are popular because of the relaxation and sightings of amazing wildlife, Panoramic Views and Bird watching Opportunities they Offer.

Boat Safaris occur on Rivers and lakes located in both protected and non-protected areas in Uganda. While on a Safari in Uganda, a Boat Safari is one of the most relaxing and tranquil ways to explore the Country and should be on your bucket list for things to do.

Uganda is home to several rivers and Lakes with Lake Victoria as the largest freshwater lake in Africa shared between Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya. In fact, 20% of Uganda’s land mass is occupied by water in form of rivers, lakes, and swamps. Some of the large rivers include, River Nile, River Katonga, River Sezibwa, River Kagera (shared between Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi), River Rwizi and several other smaller rivers. The lakes include Lake Victoria, Lake Albert, Lake Kyoga, Lake Edward, Lake George, Lake Mburo, Lake Bunyonyi, Lake Wamala and several small lakes especially the crater lakes in western Uganda.

Where to go for a Boat Safari

Most of the national parks in Uganda are near water-bodies or have one flowing right through them giving you the opportunity to engage in a boat safari while on a tour as one of the best ways to enjoy the bird-life, wildlife and amazing landscape while relaxing on a boat cruise. There are popular boat cruises in Uganda and these include a Boat cruise on Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park connecting Lakes Edward and Lake George rich in wildlife. Along this channel, you will find a range of mammals, birds, and reptiles providing great photographic moments as they come to the water’s edge to drink, cool off or search for food. This boat trip is 2 hours in a park owned boat or private boats operated by different lodges.

Lake Mburo National Park offers a tranquil experience for those who choose a boat safari. The lake is home to Hippos, Crocodiles, monitor Lizards, and a variety of bird-life like the spectacular African fish eagle that usually occupy a particular tree with its partner.

Murchison Falls National Park offers a Boat cruise to the base of the Murchison Falls on River Nile where you watch the different animals and numerous birds come to drink water and cool off. The boat brings you meters away from the thunderous Murchison falls, here the waters of the Nile are forced through a seven meter gap, dropping a spectacular 43 meters offering you amazing views of the waterfalls.

There are many more number of game parks that offer exciting boat rides to help one get better views of wildlife, reptiles and birds. Some of these you cannot see quite clearly from land and you need to get onto the water to get clear views.