Lake Bunyonyi – A great spot to relax on safari in Uganda
Lake Bunyonyi is Located 1962m above sea level and surrounded by steep sided heavily cultivated mountainous scenery.
Bunyonyi means ‘the place of many little birds’) it is about 25 km long and 7 km wide.
The Lake is a flooded valley system, extending Northwards from Rwanda over a distance of 25km long and 7km wide.
It is thought to have formed about 8000years ago as a result of a lava flow from one of the Virunga Mountains.
Its 29 islands are concentrated in the central part. These islands have few settlements, they are mostly used for tourist facilities and for a secondary and a primary school.
The data on the lake’s maximum depth varies, from 44 m to 900 m in parts. If the latter is true, Lake Bunyonyi is the second deepest lake in Africa. The temperature on the surface rises to 25 degrees Celsius.
In the beginning of the 20th century, fish were introduced to the lake and in the 1930s fishing became profitable.
Unfortunately in the 1960s the fish died massively as a result of a violent shallow mixing, likely caused by wind. Subsistence fishing prevailed in the lake, people mostly caught clarias species – the lake’s depth and stratification makes it difficult for the breeding of the common Ugandan species Nile Perch and Tilapia.
Nevertheless, 300,000 Nile Tilapias and Clarias fish were released in the lake at the end of 2002. Also present in the lake are Mud fish, Cray fish and Mirrowcarp – and plenty of their predators, otters.
The lake’s main centre is bufuka Village. The area’s inhabitants are from the Bakiga and the Batwa tribes.
Akampene = Punishment Island
The Bakiga used to leave unmarried pregnant girls on this small island with a lone tree – to die of hunger or while trying to swim to the mainland (swimming skills were rare).
This was to educate the rest, to show them not to do the same. A man without cows to pay the bride wealth could go to the island and pick up a girl.
The practice got abandoned in the first half of the 20th century. Although this practice has been abandoned, it is still possible to find women who were picked up from punishment island today.
Bushara Island
This island is the home of Lake Bunyonyi Development Company, an organisation with strong links to Church of Uganda, the main church of the lake area.
They use tourism to generate funds for several development projects around Bunyonyi.
The island has many luxury tents, chalets, and also campsites for tourists to stay on. It is also possible to rent out canoes and sailboats with a view to paddling to one of the other islands.
The striking feature of the island is its forest, a demonstration of the most appealing attribute of the eucalyptus tree: an exceptionally fast growth rate.
The hills around Bunyonyi used to feature many forests but overpopulation led to them being cut down to create land for agriculture needs. Eucalypti have been imported to improve the situation.
But eucalyptus plants may also have a negative effect: they can soak everything useful in the soil, leaving it more or less barren.
Kyahugye Island
Kyahugye Island is approximately 30ha in size and also the nearest to the mainland – a mere 5-minute boat ride away. It is surrounded by a 1-2m wide strip of reeds interspersed with papyrus.
The Island has many tree species including Eucalyptus Pinus, Alnus and Cuprssus these forming a wide perimeter around it.
The vegetation on the Island falls into four categories namely bush, open fallows, tree plantations and natural vegetation.
The hilltop is flat and has been developed for tourists. There are chalets and campsites for accommodation, and a well stocked bar and restaurant. From the top of the Island, there are spectacular views of the surrounding terraced hillsides, the calm waters of Lake Bunyonyi, and the neighboring Islands. On a clear day, Mt. Muhabura can be seen in the distance.
Tourist activities like Nature walks, Birding walks, Dugout Canoe Treks, Community visits, Mountain Climbing, etc. can be organized.
Bwama and Njuyeera (Sharp’s Island)
In 1921, an English missionary called Dr Leonard Sharp came to this part of Uganda and in 1931 established a leprosy treatment centre on the then uninhabited Bwama island A church, patient quarters (model villages) and a medical facility were built, while Sharp settled on Njuyeera Island (probably meaning ‘white cottage’, after the similarity of the doctor’s small white house to Sharp’s father’s house in Shanklin, now The White House Hotel).
The rationale of the leprosy colony was that of ‘voluntary segregation’, where the provision of a happy community to live in would attract leprosy sufferers, so removing them from the communities where they might infect others.
The buildings of the hospital are now used by a boarding secondary school which attracts students from the entire region. There is also a primary school but no village on the island.
Bucuranuka = Upside Down
The legend says that this island killed many people. About twenty were once brewing local sorghum beer there.
An old woman was passing by and she said: “Can you give me some local beer?” They wrongly thought that she was a beggar they knew. They refused her: “Get lost, beggar! Get lost!!!”
The old woman asked: “So you will not even give me a sip? Can I at least get somebody to take me to the mainland?”
They answered: “Yes, because we are fed up with you!” They chose a young guy to take her over.
When they reached the shore and the guy was just beginning to return, the island turned upside down. All died, only a chicken flew away and survived.
Read MoreWhy Uganda Is Still The Best Place To Go Gorilla Trekking
In the tropical rainforests of central Africa and East Africa in the countries of Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda and Uganda is where one can find the critically endangered mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking tours are one of the most selling and expensive tours in these countries but still thousands of tours flow in Uganda, Rwanda and D. R. Congo for gorilla tracking.
Mountain gorillas are very rare, fascinating primates and their conservation status has put them in lime light that every traveler to Africa has developed a feeling of interacting with these gentle giants in their natural habitats. However despite being threatened, the recent release from the last gorilla census show that they have increased in number up to 1000 individuals.
Of the three countries, Uganda is the best country for tracking the mountain gorillas and they can be found in Mgahinga National Park, which is part of the Virunga Ranges, and in the hilly areas of Bwindi Impenetrable national park in Southwestern Uganda.
Uganda gives the best advantage for gorilla tracking and these are the reasons as to why:
Uganda’s national parks that have gorillas provide the best experience of tracking gorillas not only because of the numbers of families but also because of what it takes to get to the gorillas. The hikes in these parks make the activity more adventurous. The challenging terrains of the parks that shelter gorillas require hard work if one is to reach the gorillas through walking (Hiking) on foot inside the jungle but at the end it is rewarding.
Security wise, Uganda is a free, friendly and safe country. This makes it a more secure place for gorilla tracking where you can view the gorillas in a serene surrounding compared to Democratic Republic of Congo, which is not usually recommended because of political instabilities and insecurity.
Uganda has half of the remaining mountain Gorillas in the world. About 500 individuals are found in Uganda’s Bwindi impenetrable national park and Mgahinga national park. The rest are shared by Rwanda and Congo but Congo has the least numbers. This makes Uganda a great option for gorilla tracking as it will be quick and easy to locate the mountain gorillas due to high numbers despite the challenging terrain of the national parks but they are experiential and ultimate.
Tracking gorillas in Uganda is cheaper compared to Rwanda. In 2017, Rwanda Development Board doubled the price of a gorilla trekking permit to 1500 US dollars which is almost three times the price of a gorilla permit in Uganda which is at 600 US dollars. D.R. Congo remains the cheapest option where a gorilla permit goes for 400$, however due to insecurity it is not highly recommended for gorilla trekking tours.
The gorilla habituation experience that is only offered in Uganda gives you another option to spend more time and study at least the behaviors of these gentle giants. Unlike the one hour gorilla tracking experience, visitors can spend four hours with the gorilla family after winning their trust and the experience that is not for mass people where only four individuals are allowed to go for this experience each day with a knowledgeable and experienced ranger guide.
Trek through the lush and ecologically rich rainforests of Uganda and enjoy the experience with these creatures. The reward of seeing these gentle giants more than makes up for the effort of reaching them. Uganda will offer a guarantee to see the gorillas up-close and in a relaxed mood.
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6 Best Romantic Places To Stay At In Uganda
The Pearl of Africa has a lot of romantic places to suit each and every traveler’s need. Celebrations of romantic events like the anniversaries, promo parties, honey moons and other romantic occasions can simply get a unique and ideal place in Uganda. The country has got some of the finest lodges ranging from the tropical islands in the middle of the River Nile and luxurious tents along in the country side.
The romantic places in Uganda include:
- Mihingo Safari Lodge:
Situated in the African bush of Lake Mburo national park is Mihingo safari lodge which is simply an ultimate luxury gem amidst Uganda’s wilderness. The permanent tented cottages are private from the others and around this place; they provide a good view of the area before even including Lake Mburo itself.At the safari lodge, one can decide to take on a guided horse riding safari through the savannas and see animals like the antelopes, zebras, buffaloes and a variety of bird species found at Lake Mburo. Catering services at the place are carefully and tastefully served plus a heavy bush breakfast. Among the best romantic places in Uganda to vacation is Mihingo safari lodge which you ought not to miss. - Wildwaters Lodge:
This simply gives an incredible romantic experience in the middle of River Nile in Jinja; the place is totally an incomparable experience in terms of luxury, appeal and the services provided. For the best romantic safari, Wildwaters is the best place to stay as you visit Jinja.Not only that you just relax and be there, a lot of activities can be included on your package as you intend to visit the lodge. You can decide to indulge in white water rafting, a romantic sunset cruise on River Nile, nature walks, visit a village or even just take in the sounds of the river at the Wildwaters lodge in Jinja. - Chobe Safari Lodge:
This is the best romantic place to stay at on a safari in Uganda. Located along River Nile in Murchison falls national park and has so much to offer on your romantic safari. The permanent tent cottages are so attractive and sincerely deserving to be among the romantic places in Uganda. Chobe is one of the romantic lodges in Uganda due to it superb luxurious comfort, a nice view of the river, privacy and many other aspects.Everything at lodge is strategically located, such as the swimming pool, just near the lodge as well as the restaurant. You can go hiking, swimming and even do game drive since the lodge is situated inside the park. Meals are just so nice and wow giving you a great experience of Africa’s authentic taste. - Mweya Safari Lodge:
The lodge is in Queen Elizabeth national park and its permanent tents provide you with that luxurious feeling, privacy and comfort that you cannot imagine. An overlook of the scenic varied birds and the mammals like the buffaloes, hippos, elephants and many others along the Kazinga channel.Mweya is a romantic place for honeymooners who would like to stay in the wilderness of Uganda in the most luxurious style. Amazingly, you can decide to go for game drives, a romantic launch cruise on the Kazinga channel as well as swimming at one of Uganda’s romantic place. Food served at Mweya are of high quality and you will be impressed by the services and hospitality as well. - Pineapple Bay Resort:
This is just a 45 minute boat ride from Entebbe to reach Bulago Island as well as the resort. It is also among the best romantic places in Uganda for the best getaway safaris. Here you can just find sand beach at the resort, good scenic views of the area’s landscape and then the good services being provided.Ideally you can do swimming, fishing or evening relaxing by the beach to feel the sounds of the pounding water that hits the shores of the lake. The resort accommodates a lot of travelers who intend to do their celebrations like honey moons, anniversaries and many others providing good services and ideal privacy. The food is just so good reaching international standards but with quality of course, so the resort should be at your stay list in case you to enjoy an exclusive romantic holiday. - Papaya Lake Lodge:
Located near Fort portal and Kibale national park, every cottage has an elegant view of the protruding crater hills and lakes in the area. All to do at your interest like swimming in the available pools and also viewing the Rwenzori Mountains on a clear day.
A lot more places for the best romantic vacation can be found in Uganda giving you the best of your safaris at affordable, plus giving complete value for money.
Read MoreGaruga Lake Resort: A Perfect Family Getaway
From the scenic view of Lake Victoria, beautiful green gardens to honeymoon cottages and boat rides, Country Lake Resort, Garuga is a perfect getaway. Before you opt for a holiday destination abroad, look at Country Lake Resort-Garuga. It may be just what you were looking for the perfect holiday.
Often times, when people want to go away for a holiday or vacation, they think of destinations out of Uganda, which is all well and good. However, there are a number of local destinations worth trying around the country and they will surely make a memorable get-away experience.
Country Lake resort-Garuga is one of those places. It boasts of good hospitality, but most especially its natural green. It is a walk into and through a mini jungle of various floras. The neat constructed pathways that lead you to this eye-catching expanse are artistically marked by well-trimmed flowers and green as well as palm trees that run along the footpaths.
And the beauty extends to the spacious and well-combed gardens in which statues stand both in concrete and metal, beautiful fabrications that depict nature in still form- of gorillas, crested cranes, man et cetera.
This hideaway of sorts is located approximately 25km in Garuga from Kampala. There is a 6.5km stretch off the Kampala-Entebbe highway and there is an imposing signpost that directs you to branch off and more signposts to lead you to the place.
If you’re using public means from Kampala, you can use a taxi going to Entebbe from the old taxi park and ask to get off at Kitala stage and then get onto a boda boda to the resort.
Alternatively you can board a taxi from Kampala to Gerenge Landing site and ask to be dropped off at Bulega Trading Centre. There are signposts which lead you to the resort which is 400m from this trading centre.
It is a bumpy ride on the murram from the main road and sometimes dusty especially during the dry season. But it is worth the effort. The resort offers a get-away from nagging road users, hooting cars and generally the hustle and bustle of busy towns and cities.
What makes it even more beautiful is that it is located on the shores of Lake Victoria. At sunset, residents who wish to fish go out to the fisherman’s rock that has a barrier to ensure the careless or little ones don’t end up in the water against their will.
Those who wish to go boat riding can do so at the beach side aptly marked. There is actually a path that leads into the shallower end of Africa’s largest fresh water body.
Lake Victoria’s serenity is more pronounced at night, providing a favorable environment for you to enjoy your drink, muchomo or tea or coffee as you chat with friends or simply relax.
If you prefer a warm evening by the lake then bonfires are lit on request at twilight. Otherwise a loud night out is on offering especially for those on a corporate retreat who might want to shake their bones.
There is also a disco that goes on into the wee hours of the night without necessarily inconveniencing other residents who might prefer a more quiet night.
If you choose to make your get-away a family affair, then the little ones won’t be left out.
There is a children’s play area to keep their adrenaline rushing. For the sports lover or for team building, volleyball and photo shoots will save the day respectively. Otherwise bird watching and taking forest walks can be equally interesting.
Honeymooners are catered for with themed cottages to make their stay worthwhile. They are fully furnished and detached.
On the whole most cottages are self-contained though differently priced depending on amenities and how long one would like to stay. “We do offer 10 per cent discount for those who intend to stay for at least three days and for those who intend to stay for at least five days we offer 20 per cent discount,” Angella Aluoch, Country Lake Resort’s Operations Manager says.
A number of the cottages will allow you to wake up to the beauty of the peaceful lake and an eagle’s view from the resort’s pier. Management can organize for an early morning warm-up session that starts with jogging at around 6a.m. There is a swimming pool too.
There is a good amount of lounging space at Country Lake resort with an ambience suited for recreation and piped music softy filters through at different points of the thatched shelters. it might not matter that you earn less than your dream salary. It is all about pre-planning and setting priorities where you can allow yourself time off and make it worthwhile, say for your annual leave. Go out and explore.
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6 Best Camp Sites in Uganda
Are you planning a camping safari in Uganda? Unlike other safaris, camping is undoubtedly the best way in which visitors have close interactions with nature. Depending on your travel interests, the prominent national parks for you to visit in Uganda include Kidepo Valley National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Semuliki Valley National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Mount Elgon National Park. Over 1074 bird species also call Uganda their home and they represent about 11% of the bird species in the world and 60% in Africa. Uganda is exceptionally the best site that you need to pay a visit if you are planning to undertake an independent camping adventure in Africa.
Below is a list of best sites for independent camping adventure undertakers
- Boomu Women’s group campsite
Boomu Women’s Group Campsite is located near Budongo Forest Reserve and Murchison Falls National Park, and serves best for independent camping adventure undertakers on Uganda safari. Camping around the campsite is the perfect way for you to interact with the community members and also have a hand in most of tourist local traditions and practices like craft making and food preparation and then connect for wilderness activities in Murchison Falls National Park. The prominent activities to engage in include the boat cruise and hiking adventures to the top of the Nile, picnicking at the top of the Murchison Falls, chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest and Forest walks. - Apoka Rest Camp
Apoka Rest Camp lies North of Uganda and consists of 16 (sixteen) self contained cabins and a hostel that comprise of 14 (fourteen) bandas and each of them have two beds for budget travelers. The camp is located in Kidepo National Park however, come along with your personal tents and other necessary camping gadgets, adequate food as well as drinks, meaning you will have a chance to make camping ground for yourself. The bandas offer budget prices and they comprise of toiletries. These bandas comes with outstanding views of the open savanna in Kidepo Valley National Park. This park is perfect for wildlife viewing, birding, guided nature walks as well as community visits especially to Karamojong manyatta house. - Entebbe Backpackers Hostel and Campsite
Entebbe Backpackers Hostel and Campsite is Uganda’s gateway. The campsite located along the Church Road about five (5) kilometers from Entebbe International Airport. The campsite is located approximately 700 meters off Kampala-Entebbe Airport route. It is located after the Windsor Lake Victoria Hotel opposite the Uganda Printing and Publishing Cooperation. From Entebbe Backpackers, you can easily connect up to the Ssese Islands (Kalangala) and the chimpanzee sanctuary at Ngamba Islands in Lake Victoria as well as Uganda Wildlife Education Centre and the Botanical Gardens at Entebbe and if you are keen enough you will spot out rare shoebill stork in Mabamba swamp. - Red chili Rest Camp
Red Chili Rest Camp is located within Murchison Falls National Park in the southern back of the River Nile, approximately 500 meters off the Paraa ferry. A bonfire is lit most evening provided the weather allows for full safari experience. The camp offers mid budget accommodation in the park in well furnished safari tents and bandas with public or private bathrooms and the only camping facilities with up to date showers, toilets, cooking area and security lighting. - Simba Safari Camp
Simba Safari Camp is one of the most popular camps in Queen Elizabeth National Park and it is located on top of the hill that over views Lake Kikorongo. The site offers the best panoramic views beyond the park’s open savanna plains plus wildlife species and Lakes especially Lake George and the renowned Kazinga Channel. It is also strategically located along the Kasenyi plains, on the edge of Lake George which is the most famous mating ground for Uganda Kobs making it the best wildlife spotting site in the park. The camp is also next to other areas in the northern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park for instance the Mweya Peninsula and the Kazinga Channel that allow you to also undertake a boat cruise, close range game viewing and birding. Visitors can also engage in guided chimpanzee trekking around the Kyambura Gorge. This camp comes with nine twin or double rooms and two triple rooms all en-suite, two family cottages each with two bedrooms, living room, one additional bed and a shared bathroom for all and three dormitory rooms with 3, 5 and 10 double-decker beds all with a common bathroom facilities and a private campsite but you will need your personal camping gear. - Ishasha Wilderness Camp
Ishasha Wilderness Camp is situated in southern Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park on River Ntungwe and offers visitors on self drive adventure with authentic African experiences. Camping around this camp offers you opportunity to spot out the unique tree climbing lions as well as buffaloes, elephants, black and white colobus monkeys and many more.
Others include Kampala Backpackers Hostel, Yebo Safari Camp and many more.
In conclusion, if you are planning to undertake an independent camping adventure, the above campsites offer the best options for you to make your stay memorable while on Uganda safari.
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Top Tourist Attractions In Uganda
Uganda is known to be a country with wildlife natural beauties and most of the major attractions that are included on a traveler’s bucket list are natural wonders and resources and historical sites. Here are the top attractions in Uganda every traveler should encounter while a Uganda tour.
The mountain gorillas in Bwindi impenetrable and Mgahinga gorilla national parks
Mountain gorillas are known to be one of the most sought after wildlife in the whole of Africa. Many people come to Africa to watch these amazing animals in their natural setting. Uganda is one those lucky places to have been embraced with these huge primates. These animals are endangered species and are put in the red list of International Union of Conservation for Nature (IUCN) and Uganda has half of the world’s population of the mountain gorillas which is 420 out of the 900 individual. This makes the pearl of Africa to rank as the best destination for gorilla safaris in Africa and the world at large. These are huge apes inhabit in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park and Mgahinga gorilla national park both located in kigezi region southwest of Uganda. Interacting and coming close with the mountain gorillas is an exhilarating experience that can never be forgotten in one’s life.
Kampala city tour
Kampala city is not the biggest and commercial city of Uganda but also a top attraction. This wonderful city boosts historical, cultural and religious sites which include Kabaka’s palace and lake, Namugongo shrine, Namirembe cathedral, Gadaffi mosque, Bahai temple and Kasubi tombs amongst the special. The latter give visitors an insight of some of Uganda’s rich history. It also has fine Asian architectural marvels that are a beauty to watch as a visitor rides around. Kampala also has fine restaurants to dine in, hangout places like pubs and discotheques to blow someone’s mind off and also those who love window shopping there a chain of exquisite shopping malls and market placed.
The source of the Nile in Jinja
This is one of the most popular tourist sites in Uganda. There isn’t much about the source of the Nile but the history about it is worth to listen to and also the boat ride on river Nile is a breathtaking one. In Jinja, the Nile the longest river in the world bolsters lots of features that support tourism activities. It has very nice elevated cliffs that are used for bungee jumping and also has Itanda falls one of the most powerful falls in the world which harbors the most dreadful white rafting grade the 6th grade. Still at the source of the Nile, a traveler has an opportunity to taste one of the most delicious and hugest fish type the Nile perch at one of the resorts.
Hike on top of Murchison falls
Here the Nile, the longest river in the world, is forced through a narrow gap in the rock (only 7 meters wide), before ferociously plunging down 43 meters into Victoria Nile basin. The rainbow water that sprinkles back looks so wonderful. This is also an ideal place for taking some nice pictures that can be posted on social media like facebook, instagram, snapchat, twitter and google plus among others.
Chimpanzees in Kibale forest
Kibale national park is known to be with the highest concentration of chimpanzees in Africa. Coming up-close with the chimpanzees is one of the most electric moment a traveler can ever have in his/her life. Chimpanzees are the closest relatives of mankind in the animal kingdom with 98.8% DNA. These small primates are so intelligent and some of the intelligence is evidenced with their ability to use tools like sticks and stones in the jungle to gather food, protection and also shelter. Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda is always a lifetime experience.
Tree climbing lions at the Ishasha sector in Queen Elizabeth national park
Lions are always fun to watch in their natural setting as these amazing creatures are so bossy, majestic and act like royals with predatory antics in the jungle. This is why they are called the kings of the jungle. Finding lions on top of the tree branches is very rare to encounter but at the Ishasha sector in Queen Elizabeth, lions always rest on fig tree branches to get rid of satisfaction after a successful hunt of prey.
The big five African animals
During the hunting age, there were five animals that were so hard to hunt down in the jungle and these were the lions, leopards, buffalos, elephants and the rhinos. Uganda is one of the safari destinations with these powerful animals. These animals are found in national park like Queen Elizabeth national park, Murchison falls national park and Kidepo national park other than the rhinos which are only found in Zziwa rhino sanctuary. Many travelers always embark on game drive in these national parks in search of these animals.
The watching the elusive shoebill
Uganda is the best birding site in the whole of Africa. It has over 1065 species of birds and over 35 species are endemic to the country. The elusive shoebill is the one of the most sought after birds in the world and it is every birders dream to lay a sight on the majestic bird. This bird can only be found in Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Sudan but Uganda is the best place to watch this bird since it has the highest concentration of it. The elusive shoebill can be watch in Mabamba birding site, Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls national parks.
Boat ride at Kazinga channel Queen Elizabeth national park
The unique 2-hour boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel and into Lake Edward is one of a kind. This trip passes through possibly the highest concentration of Hippos and many animals may be seen drinking at the water’s edge. This launch cruise offers an excellent platform for photography, bird watching and game viewing, ideal for the Uganda safari. The prolific bird life is colorful and stupendous with well over 550 resident species.
Amabere caves
Situated in fort portal municipality, Amabere caves are one of the most intriguing tourist sites in Uganda due to the breast like features in the caves and the rich history of the place. While at Amabere, there is also hiking up to see the two magnificent crater lakes at the top of the dormant volcanic
Untamed Wilderness Of The Kidepo Valley National Park
Located in the North Eastern region of Uganda, the Kidepo National park is an eminent conservation area sheltering over 80 species of mammals and numerous birds. The park was condoned off for game conservation in 1962 and grows parallel with the nation. Kidepo valley national park lies in rather the remote Karamoja region, Uganda’s semi-arid region that’s just about 700km from the bustle of Kampala. Karamoja is Uganda’s best kept secret and treasure chest as it holds years after the colonization, the region has remained pure and unadulterated preserving its rich cultural heritage.
This conservation area derives its name from the Kidepo River. This seasonal river is often a lifeline for animals during the wet season as they congregate to drink water and catch the predators look to get their next prey. “Kidepo”; in the local dialect of the Karimojong, Kidepo literally means ‘to pick’. Before the park was gazetted, the Karimojong used to come to the riverbanks to collect fruits. The banks favour the growth of tall coconut and palm trees that bear exceptional fruits.
The Kidepo Valley National Park today plays host to a variety of flora and fauna. While taking a wildlife tour in Uganda, a stop at the Kidepo allows you to catch a glimpse of the unique striped hyena, cheetah, hunting dog, bat-eared fox, aardwolf and caracal. It also offers you the opportunity to view elephants, bush pigs, warthog, eland, Rothschild giraffe, Burch ell’s zebra, reed buck, and Oribi. The king of jungle can also be spotted chilling on the rocks within kidepo’s undulating plains.
More fascinating about the beautiful wilderness of the Kidepo, it is a true birder’s haven; the best birding safaris in Uganda are conducted here with over 475 bird species and second to only Queen Elizabeth National Park in the number of host birds. The presence of the most sought after rare bird species make this park an interesting birding paradise; these include the Apallis and Black breasted Barbet found which are found here coincidentally with Abyssinian roller, Abyssinian scimitarbill, Black-breasted barbet, Carmine bee-eater, Chestnut weaver, D’Arnaud’s barbet, Fox kestrel and Golden Pipi. The prominent birders that visit Uganda look out for the famous ostrich in this park. This bird runs faster than any horse alive and offers a breathtaking sight as it’s the only place in Uganda where one can sight an ostrich in their natural habitats. Birding excursions in Kidepo Valley National Park can be done all year round however March to April offers the best time to see a variety including the migratory birds.
Cultural encounters in Kidepo valley national park
Nothing quite compares to the Pearl of Africa cultural tour experience with the Karamojong. They live in homesteads known as manyattas. Manyattas can be described as small hunt villages housing a particular country and clan. As the boys become men, they move into their own huts. The men are also required to wrestle the lady they wish to marry; and if he becomes victorious he is allowed to go ahead with the marriage but if unfortunate he becomes a disgrace and is asked to leave. Karimojong are also described by splendid art ranging from their hats and sculptures. They are nomadic pastoralists and worship there cattle. Today when planning a Uganda Safari Encounter, plan to include a cultural tour with the Karimojong as they reach for the skies during their interesting traditional dance.
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Hiking Mountain Muhabura
Muhabura Mountain is an extinct volcano found within the Virunga mountain ranges in Kisoro District (Uganda) lying in the border between Rwanda and Uganda. It’s the third (3rd) highest mountain out of the eight major =mountains in the Virunga mountain ranges reaching up to 4,127m (13,540 feet). Muhabura is shared by two countries with some part in the volcanoes national park in Rwanda and the other part is found in Uganda’s Mgahinga Gorilla national park.
Mount Muhabura’s beauty goes beyond the visual one; it also covers the adventurous activities that are engaged in once there. It provides the best hiking experience in Uganda and one of the most loved in East Africa and of Africa at large. It takes around eight hours for hikers to reach the top of this mountain, having walked through the beautiful terrains which are varied. Once at the top, you are rewarded with scenic views of the Virunga volcanic massif, and clear sights of Lake Edward, Bwindi impenetrable forest and the peaks of the Rwenzoris.
Muhabura’s open slopes are covered with thick shrubs and thickets which are broad spanned plants looking like Yucca. Walk through muddy and slippery grounds as it rains on and off, and as you get to the summit, you meet small crater ponds. You also encounter swamps in the saddles of the volcanoes that retain water all year throughout. Truthfully, the beauty of mount Muhavura is a worthwhile visit.
Standing tall with its high summit in the volcanoes national park, Mt Muhabura is one of the most easterly volcanoes marking the boarder of Rwanda and Uganda in the Virunga ranges. You can enjoy the admirable views over the other five volcanoes and also the twin lakes. Near the summit, there is a small crater lake which is still in its original state hiding in a slight hollow like shape, and the vegetation is always drier than all other regions in the Virunga national park, with a fantastic view of the giant heather that are seen thriving on the slopes of volcanoes national park.
The slopes of Mt Muhabura are very step and climbing it requires average physical strength. The name Muhabura in the local dialect (Kinyarwanda) literally means “Guide” connected to the historical use of mountain to aid mobility with its rock containing crystals of augite that can be seen from many parts of the country. Hiking this mountain typically takes a full day, and the trek commences early morning 7:00am from the base of the mountain. It is highly recommended that the climbers should get the porters (hike assistants) to help them carry their luggage (bags and hiking materials) during the process.
Hiking this mountain is so adventurous and the place is worthwhile visiting to admire such amazing hike on this mountain. It feels great walking through the beautiful varying terrains that often looks like a desert, viewing at the open slopes; you see a beautiful cover of thick shrubs and thickets of evergreen plants.
Hiking this mountain requires a walking stick, hiking shoes; head caps, packed lunch and drinks and a rain jacket, the trails that lead to see all the three peaks are usually foggy in the mountains, muddy and slippery since this area receives rainfall anytime of the day.
Although hiking this mountain is physically demanding because of its steep slopes, it gives a clear view of Uganda, DR. Congo and Rwanda at the same time.
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Visit Sezibwa Falls In Uganda
When you have visited Uganda and you in Kampala, you cannot afford to miss visiting Sezibwa falls. The falls are just located in the about 45 kilometers along Kampala- Jinja highway. Sezibwa falls stands as the heritage site in Buganda Kingdom. The people in this culture have attached this site as a place where they go to obtain blessings from. Following the local legend attributed to this falls that is Sezibwa and Bwanda rivers, they were born as twin from a woman who was known as Nakkungu and Tebatuusa. Bwanda river is strategically flowed towards the mother’s village though the Sezibwa river and cut its own path and flowed west. In so doing it passed a number of obstacles which were so difficult. For the Sezibwa, the name was driven from a local phrase called sezibwa kkubo and this meant, no obstacles can stop me from moving along.
When you reach the falls, the part which surrounds this heritage site is very green. It is full of trails most especially for those who are nature lovers. A long the river, there are hikes which will offer you opportunity for hiking in case you are interested in this activity. The forest surrounding this heritage site is very dense and in some areas very muddy. Because of this therefore, you will be advised to wear good hiking shoes which will guarantee you good hiking opportunity when you are at the site.
This cultural heritage site has also got a number of bird species. Indeed it is a much loved spot where you will view a number of bird species. This site also hosts a number of animals which will offer you opportunity for wildlife viewing. The most notable species of animals found at this heritage site include; the bush and the red tailed monkeys. These will be readily available when you visit this heritage site. To carry good memories back to your country, you can take some photos of these animals.
Tourists who will desire slightly more excitement, will participate in nature walks You will definitely have to cross right above the torrent of the water which do cascade down which is approximately seven meter drop. A long side this cultural site, you will find rock climbing and a number of geologic structures. When you are at the base of the falls, the river flows further down and cuts through a large field which is grassy. The site has got a few natural pools and this can make you participate in swimming as you are relaxing.
At the site, there is a small restaurant. This restaurant is located on a hill and it overlooks the Sezibwa falls. You can enjoy a warm beer and a cold soda which will be served to you when you are in this place. You can also order for yourself local dishes including Matooke and any other local food you would wish to eat.
For those tourists who may be interested in camping and picnicking, you can carry out this activity on the side of the river. It is not only bad but also a very good place for relaxing. In case you travel as a family, when you have carried out boxes of packed food and mats, you will make your day very wonderful and beautiful.
When you are in Kampala, Uganda’s capital and you wish to rich Sezibwa falls, then you will have to rent a 4×4 car for convenience. You will drive along Jinja- Kampala road. The first falls are located in Mukono district which is about 30-60 minutes drive east of the city. This will depend on the traffic flow. As you approach this site , you will start seeing sugarcane plantations.
Read MoreIgongo Cultural Centre
Igongo Cultural Centre And Country Hotel
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Igongo Cultural Centre & Country Hotel is a leading recreational complex comprising of the captivating & one of the best museums in Uganda, Eriijukiro (the museum of South Western Uganda), a traditional restaurant, bar, luxurious & a spacious 5 star hotel located exactly 12km along the scenic Mbarara Masaka highway.
Igongo Cultural Centre in western Uganda Mbarara district
It is the ultimate destination for lovers of history, art, culture and comfort. A staple of ultimate African luxury, Igongo merges comfort, relaxation and recreation in an environment offering gorgeous scenery & beautiful gardens that capture the imaginations of both the young and the old. The complex is an attraction to a diversity of people and cultures both local and international.
With ample parking space and security, the complex has two entrances, one of which is a drive through the expansive gardens to the entrance of the hotel where guests are welcomed by a concierge. The entrance into the hotel’s lobby and foyer presents a beautiful artistic view of various art and culture exhibited.
Igongo has an exceptional management team that runs it efficiently and effectively to ensure that it lives up to its promise of superior and excellent service. Igongo presents an elegant, executive and refreshing settling for tourists, hotel guests, day trippers and families who seek an enjoyable and memorable experience in a sophisticates and relaxing atmosphere.
Starting as a stop-over and resting place for travelers and tourists along the Masaka Mbarara Highway, Igongo opened its gates in 2010 and has since emerged as the premier venue offering history, art, culture, food and the best accommodation with superior service in Western Uganda.
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