The uniqueness of the National Parks in Uganda

Uganda also known as the Pearl of Africa worldwide is gifted with both beautiful and extraordinary features including the 10 National Parks. Each national park is kind of unique/ distinctive when it comes to attractions, activities that are being enjoyed by tourists while on a Uganda safari & tour, location, and vegetation among others. A visit to one of the following national parks will reward you with a true and unforgettable Uganda safari experience which will make you embrace that Uganda is truly the Pearl of Africa.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the two national parks in Uganda with the rare endangered mountain gorillas. It is sitting on an area of about 321 square kilometers in the southwestern region of Uganda. Bwindi has one of the country’s oldest Afro-montane tropical rain forests which harbors a variety of attractions including more than half of the world’s gorilla population (with over 20 gorilla habituated groups), over 360 species of birds, 200 plant species and more than 120 mammal species of which 10 are primate species and over 45 are small mammals. The main activity in this remarkable gorilla destination is gorilla trekking which is carried out in a group of not more than 8 trekkers per gorilla family and of now, it costs $ 600 per individual per day. The 2 to 4 hours of trekking gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park will reward you with an exceptional Uganda gorilla safari experience.

Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga National Park is one of Uganda’s smallest national parks lying on an area of about 34 square kilometers in southwestern Uganda bordered by Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Virunga National Park. It harbors over 80 mountain gorillas (with only 1 gorilla habituated group called Nyakagyezi), golden monkeys and 3 of the 5 Virunga massifs such as Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabyinyo, and Mount Muhabura. Besides the gorillas and golden monkeys, it is also well known for its Batwa cultural experience.

Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park is the biggest national park in Uganda, covering an area of about 3,840 square kilometers and lies at the northern end of the Albertine Rift Valley. This remarkable park derived its name from the most powerful waterfalls called Murchison falls which is created by the world’s longest river, River Nile. These falls are formed when the Nile squeezes through an 8 meters wide gorge plunging 45 meters over the rift valley wall. Apart from the powerful falls, there is also a high concentration of Nile crocodiles, hippos, elephants, buffaloes and several aquatic species of birds at the river bank. Murchison Falls National Park is a haven to more than 451 bird species and 76 mammal species including lions, giraffes, Ugandan kobs and leopards among others. A visit to Murchison Falls National Park will give you the best spot for Uganda wildlife safaris & tours because it has the highest population of wild game.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is the second largest national park in Uganda with a size of 1,978 square kilometers. The park is popular for its tree climbing lions that are found in the southern sector called Ishasha. Among all the national parks in East Africa, Queen Elizabeth National Park ranks the first in having the largest checklist of bird species (over 600). It also has more than 95 mammal species including big game and 10 primate species (chimpanzees and others) among others.

Kibale National Park

Kibale National Park is well known for its Chimpanzee trekking and Chimpanzee habituation experience. The park sits on an area of about 795 square kilometers with a breathtaking tropical rainforest and extraordinary biodiversity such as mammals (about 70) and birds (more than 375).

Besides its chimpanzees, it has other primate species including the rare L’Hoest monkeys, black and white colobus, Velvet monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, red-tailed monkeys and many more.

Kidepo Valley National Park

Bordering Kenya and Sudan is a 1,442 square kilometers Kidepo Valley National Park that lies within the rugged and semi-arid valleys in the northeastern corners of Uganda. Kidepo Valley National Park is well known for the greatest count of ostriches and the big game. It has over 77 species of mammals and also about 475 bird species. Other attractions include the two rivers (Kidepo and Narus) which usually disappear during the dry/sunny season.

Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National park is found in the western parts of Uganda and is the smallest savannah national park so far, covering an area of 370 square kilometers. It has the greatest count of Impalas, antelopes, elands, zebras, Defassa waterbucks, leopards, hippopotami, hyenas, reedbucks and topis among others. It is also a paradise for birders with more than 350 species of birds.

Semuliki National Park

Located in the western region of Uganda is a 220 square kilometers Semuliki National Park famous for its Sempaya hot springs. These hot springs are used by the Bamba people for rituals as they are talking to their gods for protection and blessings. There are both male and female hot springs called Bitente and Nyansimbi respectively. A guided walk to these beautiful hot springs will expose you to Semuliki National Park’s other biodiversity such as different bird species (over 441 bird species) and 53mammal species including red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, Velvet monkeys and many others. The warm temperature of the female hot springs is about 1000C. This can boil eggs and cook bananas within 10 to 15 minutes.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Rwenzori Mountains National Park also popular as Mountains of the Moon is situated in western Uganda bordering with the Democratic Republic of Congo. It’s unique because of the equatorial snow-capped peaks which are the third highest point in Africa and the lower slopes are covered in moorland, bamboo and rich, moist montane forest. It is also famous as the world-class hiking and mountaineering safari destination. A 9 to 12-day hike will get skilled climbers to the summit of Margherita (the highest peak although shorter).

Mount Elgon National Park

Mount Elgon National Park is sitting on an area of about 1,121 square kilometers and is bisected by the Uganda and Kenya border.  Mount Elgon is the oldest and largest solitary, volcanic mountain in East Africa and has the world’s largest volcanic base (80 kilometers in diameter and height of over 3000 meters). The cool heights offer respite or rest from the hot plains below, with the higher altitudes providing a refuge for flora and fauna. The vegetation that the slope supports ranges from the montane forest on the lower slopes to high open moorland studded with plant species such as giant lobelia and groundsel plants.

On the northern and western sides of the mountain rise in a series of massive basalt cliffs over which the mountain’s rivers plunge as beautiful waterfalls. The most famous falls on mount Elgon are the Sipi Falls on the Kapchorwa road, just outside of the park.

Why Gorilla Trekking in Uganda is Unique

Gorilla trekking is the best and most unique activity in East Africa where tourists enter the forest in search of the mountain gorillas. It is carried out in only 4 National parks including Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These national parks give you the true and life-changing experience that you will never forget. Today, the total population of the mountain gorillas in the whole world is over 1063.

Trekking gorillas starts with a briefing session that is held at the park headquarters after which the trekkers will proceed into the forest to search for the allocated gorilla group (trekkers will move in groups of not more than 8 people). You have to be physically fit and healthwise good because it is quite hectic and the hiking involves passing through areas that are bushy with thorns and stinging nettles, highly elevated, muddy and slippery and among others. The trekking activity takes about 2 to 6 hours depending on where you will meet the gorillas. On finding them, you will have an hour of interaction with them, taking pictures, capturing videos and studying their behaviors. The one hour of face-to-face encounter will be of thrilling and lifetime experience.

Among the three countries where gorilla trekking is carried out, Uganda grants trekkers the most extraordinary experience. The experience is being derived by a number of factors including the number of gorilla groups that are found in Uganda. In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, there are over 20 gorilla groups such as Habinyanja gorilla family, Mubare gorilla family, Oruzogo gorilla family, Nkuringo gorilla family, Christmas gorilla family, Bitukura gorilla family, Katwe gorilla family, Rushegura gorilla family, Rwigi gorilla group, Nshongi gorilla family, Kahungye gorilla family, Bushaho gorilla family, Mishaya gorilla family, Bweza gorilla group, Kyaguriro gorilla family, Kutu gorilla group, Mucunguzi, Bikyingi gorilla family, Busingye gorilla family, and Mukiza gorilla group. In Mgahinga National Park, you will find the Nyakagyezi gorilla family (only1 gorilla group).

Below are the reasons which make Uganda’s gorilla trekking to be unique from that of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo:

Two gorilla trekking destinations

Uganda has two national parks where the tracking activity can be conducted. You can either opt to visit Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park for your gorilla trekking experience. While Rwanda and Congo have only one gorilla trekking destination each, thus being a unique gorilla trekking destination.

Greatest count of mountain gorillas

Amongst the 3 countries with mountain gorillas, Uganda has the greatest population of these endangered species. Its gorilla population is more than half of the world’s total gorilla population.

Many gorilla groups to track

Uganda has many gorilla groups to track on your Uganda gorilla safari & tour. In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you will find more than 20 gorilla groups including Kutu, Rwigi, Nkuringo, Bushaho, Mucunguzi, Mukiza, Oruzogo, Mubare, Habinyanja, Rushegura, Christmas, Katwe, Bikyingi, Nshongi, Kyaguriro (it is for research purposes), Bitukura, Busingye, Kahungye, Mishaya, and Bweza gorilla family. Mgahinga has only one gorilla family called Nyakagyezi which is ever mobile. Every day 168 gorilla permits are being issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) for trekkers compared to Rwanda and Congo where about 80 and 48 permits respectively are being issued each day.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has 4 locations for gorilla trekking

Comparing the 3 countries with the rare mountain gorillas, its only Uganda’s Bwindi that has locations/sectors where gorilla trekking is conducted. These locations include Buhoma in the north, Ruhija in the east, Rushaga and Nkuringo in the south. Each location has its own gorilla families (each with distinctive/ unique characteristics different from one another). Buhoma sector has Mubare, Rushegura, Habinyanja, and Katwe gorilla family, Rushaga has Nshongi, Kahungye, Mishaya, Busingye, Mucunguzi, Rwigi, Bweza, Kutu and Bikyingi. In Nkuringo, there are Nkuringo, Christmas and Bushaho gorilla groups whereas Ruhija has Mukiza, Bitukura, Oruzogo, and Kyaguriro gorilla groups.

Favorable climate for gorilla trekking

Uganda, the Pearl of Africa has the most favorable climate which most visitors to Africa tend to enjoy. It experiences two climatic seasons that is; the dry and wet/rainy seasons. In countries with gorillas, the dry season is most preferred by trekkers because the hiking areas are not slippery/ muddy and bushy whereas the wet season isn’t always preferred. But in Uganda, gorilla trekking cannot be affected by rain because it immediately shines after raining and trekking can still be rewarding as that carried out during the dry/sunny season.

Affordability and guaranteed security

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is both affordable and secure compared to Rwanda (secure but very expensive) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (affordable but not secure). A gorilla permit in Rwanda costs $1500, it’s now at $600 in Uganda whereas for the Democratic Republic of Congo is at $400 per individual per day (it is the cheapest but not preferred because of insecurity).

It can be conducted together with other wildlife safaris & tours

Uganda is gifted with a variety of attractions including wildlife/ mammal species (lions, elephants, giraffes, leopards, buffaloes, zebras, hyenas, and many others), primate species and bird species among others. On top of trekking gorillas, you can go for bird watching in the same park or for other primates tracking like chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park, game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Lake Mburo National Park. The Democratic Republic of Congo also has many wildlife species to enjoy but it is insecure/ unsafe.

In conclusion, tourists planning for a gorilla safari don’t have to worry about which country to go go to for gorilla trekking but rather opt for Uganda because of its favorable climate, affordability and safety, greatest count of mountain gorillas, many gorilla families and the two gorilla trekking destinations among others.

 

 

 

An Increase in the Population of Mountain Gorillas in Uganda

Mountain Gorillas are rare endangered species that are found in only three countries that is; Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Trekking these mountain gorillas is every tourist’s dream and an increase in their population in Uganda is the most exciting news for every gorilla trekker. The exciting news was announced by Mr. Sam Mwandha, the Chief Executive Director of Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) at Kampala Serena International Conference on 16^th December 2019.

The Chief Executive Director of UWA pointed that the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park were about 459 in 50 gorilla families in December of 2018 from 400 mountain gorillas in 2011 which is a 15% increase in the population of these endangered species in Uganda. He continued by unveiling that over 60 billion shillings are generated in each and every year from gorilla trekking which was seconded by Prof Ephraim Kamuntu, the outgoing Minister of Tourism and Antiquities. In Uganda, the thrilling and life-changing activity of trekking gorillas can only be done in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park. Both parks are a haven to more than half of the world’s total population of gorillas.

Prof Ephraim Kamuntu also added that Uganda harbors over 7% and 39% of the world’s and continent’s mammal diversity respectively. It is also gifted with over 11% of the world’s total population of bird species and 50% of the continent’s total species of birds, other primate species such as chimpanzees, golden monkeys, olive baboons and among others. These attractions boost Uganda’s Tourism sector plus the country at large because they generate a lot of income for the nation. He also pointed out that tourism in Uganda greatly relies on nature and biodiversity and this made him request the Ugandan government to ensure effective protection of nature and biodiversity.

In the comparison of tourism and other sectors in Uganda in terms of foreign exchange earnings, tourism is the leading foreign exchange earner. It contributes up to 24% and 8% of the total exports and jobs (direct and indirect jobs) respectively. According to the tourism sector statistics in Uganda, gorilla trekking is one of the top tourism products that generate a lot of income for the country.

Another New Born Gorilla Baby to Mubare Gorilla Family within a month

Located in the Buhoma sector (north) of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the Mubare gorilla group, one of the oldest gorilla families in this remarkable gorilla destination. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park’s gorilla population has increased after Karungi, one of the female adults in the Mubare gorilla family giving birth to a healthy baby gorilla on 7^th of November 2019 in the afternoon at around 13:29 hours. This was announced by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and this comes after a month when the same exact gorilla group had welcomed a baby.

About Mubare Gorilla Family

Mubare gorilla family also known as M group, resides in the northern sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park called Buhoma. The family was named after the Mubare Hills that are situated in Bwindi and it’s in these hills where the group was first spotted. Before the Mubare gorilla group was officially opened for trekking/tourism in 1993, it went through habituation for 2 years that started in 1991 to make it familiar to coming into contact with the people.

At the start, Mubare gorilla family was consisting of 18 members and led by the dominant silverback called Ruhondeza who unfortunately passed away in 2012 at the age of 50 years and his son Kanyonyi took over the power. During Ruhondeza’s time in exile, the group dropped from 18 to 6 members which his successor Kanyonyi managed to expand again.

About Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is situated in the southwestern region of Uganda sprawling the districts of Kabale, Kisoro, and Kanungu. It is sitting in an area of about 321 square kilometers. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park was established as a National Park in 1991 and in 1994, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage. It is also one of the four destinations in the world that harbor the rare mountain gorillas (having more than half of the total gorilla population in the world).

Besides Bwindi’s rare mountain gorillas, it consists of other extraordinary attractions that one can not endeavor to miss on a Uganda safari. These attractions include plant species and other mammal species such as chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, olive baboons, grey-cheeked mangabeys, duikers, elephants, buffaloes, bushbucks, and L’Hoest monkeys among others. It also has over 360 bird species such as the Albertine Rift epidemics, the Afro Montane birds and many more.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has a lot of activities to enjoy while on your Uganda tour & safari including birding/ bird watching, gorilla trekking (main highlight), Batwa cultural experience, Nature walks/Hiking, Full day gorilla habituation experience in Rushaga and Nkuringo, Buhoma village walk, Mountain bike rides, other primates tracking and many others.

Bwindi Impenetrable National park can be accessed by road and air. By road, you can either take the longest route from Kampala via Kabale-Mbarara road (approximately 479 kilometers /8 to 9 hours’ drive) or the shortest route that starts from Kigali, Rwanda through Cyanika/Katuna border posts to Kisoro/Kabale districts (approximately 177 kilometers/ 4 hours’ journey). By air, you can fly from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi and stay in the Buhoma sector or to Kisoro and stay in Nkuringo or Rushaga sectors in the south.

 

UTB launches a Project to Boost Birding

Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) – an organization responsible for promoting and marketing Uganda’s safari products around the world has launched a campaign aiming at boosting Uganda birding safaris. This will involve conserving the rare species of birds in the country. Birding is one of the well-known safari activities that most tourists engage in all over the world and today, Uganda is becoming the most preferred birding destination for birdwatchers from every corner of the world. Boosting Bird watching in Uganda will as well promote the country’s tourism sector plus the revenue earnings.

In 2018, over 1,500,000 visited Uganda for a safari which led to a growth of 7.4% from the tourist arrivals recorded. Uganda got the revenue of about $1.6 billion as a result of an increase in the number of tourists visiting compared to that of 2017 ($1.45 billion). With over 11% of the bird species, Uganda is capable of boosting its birding safaris to feature among the most performing tourist activities. When comparing Uganda to other famous birding destinations including North America and Europe, Uganda remains an extraordinary birding destination when it comes to bird count though bird watching has not been fully utilized as Uganda’s tourism product.

Uganda Tourism Board in co-operation with other tourism associations is set to host the third African Birding Expo that will be held in Entebbe from 6^th to 8^th December 2019. The birding expo involves a number of activities right from post and pre-expo tours, exhibitions, talk shows, lectures, entertainments, and many others. The African Birding Expo has turned into a meeting point for bird enthusiasts within and outside Africa.

Different species of birds to see in Uganda

Uganda is gifted with over 1080 species of birds which are extremely beautiful not to miss out on your Uganda safari. These bird species include the Great Blue Turaco, Marabou Stork, Shoebill stork, Saddle-billed Stork, African Green Broadbill, Shelley’s Crimsonwing, Doherty’s Bush-shrike, Crested crane, Green-Breasted Pitta, Standard-Winged Nightjar, Black-Breasted Barbet, Bar-tailed Trogon, African Spoonbill, Yellow-billed Oxpecker, Long-crested Eagle, Black Bee-Eater, Chocolate-Backed Kingfisher, African Grey parrot, swifts, mousebirds, Woodhoopoes, Nightjars, Flamingos, Pelicans, Ostriches and among others.

Where to go for birding in Uganda

In Uganda, most tourists who visit for birding safaris usually go to places such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Bigodi wetland sanctuary, Mabamba Bay wetland, Kibale National Park, Semuliki National Park, Mount Elgon National Park, Mgahinga National Park, Nyamuriro Swamp, Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Kyambura Wildlife Reserve, Semuliki Reserves, Maramagambo Forest, Budongo Forest, Mabira Forest  and Lutembe Bay among others.

In conclusion, boosting birding in Uganda will generate more revenue earnings and also help in promoting the country’s tourism sector. A visit to Uganda for a bird watching safari will reward you with an ultimate life-changing experience of its own kind.

How Gorilla trekking is conducted in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is conducted in 2 National Parks that is; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park. It is the main highlight in Uganda safaris & tours/ Uganda gorilla safaris. According to the last census carried out in both Bwindi and Mgahinga National Park, the total population of mountain gorillas in Uganda is below 900 and also shows an increase in the number of gorillas.

Where gorilla trekking is conducted in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is situated in the southwestern region of Uganda sprawling the districts of Kabale, Kisoro, and Kanungu. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is sitting on an area of about 321 square kilometers and is bordered by Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo in the south and west respectively. You can access this remarkable gorilla destination from Kampala (approximately 457 kilometers/ 8 hours’ journey via Masaka road) and Kigali, Rwanda (approximately 177 kilometers/ 4hours’ drive through Katuna or Cyanika border post to Kisoro). Today, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has over 20 gorilla families habituated for trekking/ tourism including the Mubare, Katwe, Kyaguriro, Bitukura, Habinyanja, Rushegura, Mukiza, Busingye, Bikyingi, Kahungye, Mucunguzi, Kutu, Bweza, Nkuringo, Bushaho, Mishaya, Christmas, Nshogi, Oruzogo, and Rwigi.

Note: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is carried out in 4 locations/ sectors of Buhoma in the north, Ruhija in the east, Rushaga, and Nkuringo in the south. Each sector has its own gorilla families to trek.

Mgahinga National Park is one of the smallest National Parks in Uganda covering an area of 34 square kilometers and is situated in the southwest bordering Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mgahinga National Park has over 80 mountain gorillas and there is only one gorilla family called Nyakagezi which is habituated for trekking. Besides its rare mountain gorillas, this park is also endowed with over 4000 golden monkeys that reside in the bamboo area of the park. Golden monkey tracking activity can be a supplement on your Uganda gorilla safari in Mgahinga National Park.

Process of Gorilla trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is conducted in Mgahinga and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park on a daily basis. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) issues 160 and 8 gorilla permits for Bwindi and Mgahinga respectively every day and each permit is at a cost of $600 per individual per day/ per trek.

The day for gorilla trekking starts with having a hefty breakfast at your lodge after which you transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing about Uganda gorilla trekking. Once the briefing session is done, you will proceed into the forest to commence with the search for the giant apes with the help of a professional park ranger. This will take about 2 to 6 hours. While trekking the gorillas, you will also get a chance to see other primates, different bird species, tree/ plant species and among others. On finding the gorilla family, you will be given only an hour to spend with it before heading back to the starting point where you left your tour driver for a transfer back to your lodge.

Number of people to visit a gorilla family

Gorilla trekking is limited to a number of people per gorilla family in all countries with mountain gorillas in order to prevent the gorillas from getting infectious/contagious diseases like flu, cough, diarrhea and many others and also to avoid altering the behavior of these gorillas.

Only 8 persons are allowed to trek each gorilla family per day making the gorilla permits to be highly demanded and competitive. Therefore, you must book a gorilla permit for your gorilla safari earlier (5 to 6 months in advance) to avoid missing on this thrilling activity.

In conclusion, gorilla trekking in Uganda will reward you with the best and thrilling gorilla experience you can never miss because there are high chances of seeing the mountain gorillas in Uganda than in Rwanda and Congo. Thus, making Uganda be the most desirable gorilla trekking place for most tourists

Nyakagezi Gorilla Family in Mgahinga National Park

Nyakagezi gorilla family is the only gorilla group habituated for tracking or tourism in Mgahinga National Park. In Kisoro district south west of Uganda, this remarkable gorilla destination is found and covers an area of about 34 square kilometers. Mgahinga National Park is bordered by both Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and Congo’s Virunga National Park. It is comprised of three volcanoes that is Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga and Mount Sabyinyo.

Mgahinga National Park was established in 1991 together with Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with the aim of protecting the endangered species and has a total population of over 80 mountain gorillas. Nyakagezi gorilla family is comprised of over 10 members including 4 silverbacks, 2 adult females, 2 blackbacks, 2 juveniles and an infant. It is led by Mark, the dominant silverback who took over power from his father Bugingo and other members include Mafia and Matthew (silverback), Rukundo and Ndungutse (blackbacks), Nyiramwiza and Nshuti (Adult females), Furaha and Nkanda (juveniles) and finally Mutagamba (infant). It is very mobile that is; it does not settle in one place (it always crosses to Rwanda and Congo sides). In spite of its continuous movement to other neighboring countries, it always returns back to its home range. The home range for this amazing gorilla group is called Nyakagezi with a lot of food attractive to these gorillas thus, making it an easiest gorilla family to track because it prefers a small home range for relaxation, resting and feeding. In 2012, the gorilla group completely settled in Mgahinga and in May 2013, the group obtained a new baby gorilla. Today, it is easy to track this gorilla family because of its permanent settlement in the park.

Nyakagezi gorilla family is trekked by a maximum number of 8 people per day and permits are issued by UWA and usually sold at the park headquarters in Kisoro town and Ntebeko at a cost of $ 600 per person. For tourists who would like to track this amazing gorilla family, you are advised to book for the permit earlier due to their high demand yet they are few (only 8 permits are being issued per day by UWA).

While going gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National Park, you have to pack the required things and put on the appropriate clothes for the thrilling encounter. Wear long sleeved shirts, long trousers, waterproof hiking boots, garden gloves, socks, sweater and many more. Make sure that you carry a waterproof backpack, gorilla permit, no flash camera, binoculars, energy giving snacks, bottled water, poncho/rain jacket, hat, and many more.

Trekking this amazing gorilla family starts with a briefing about the gorilla trekking rules and regulations at Ntebeko park headquarters and also what to expect while carrying out this adventurous activity. The rules and regulations for this activity include; keep a distance of 7 to 8 meters away from the gorillas always, do not litter in the park, persons below 15 years of age are not allowed to do the tracking, avoid eating, drinking and smoking in the presence of these endangered species, persons with contagious diseases like flu, cough, diarrhea and many more are not allowed to do the tracking, do not use flash cameras while taking pictures, always maintain a tight group and do not surround the gorillas.

Visiting Mgahinga National Park for Nyakagezi gorilla family shouldn’t center on the experience derived from encountering these endangered species but also enjoying the beautiful magical views of the most breathtaking and incredible three Virunga volcano summits, the gorge and the magnificent flora thus, deriving a life changing experience of its own kind.

Besides tracking the Nyakagezi gorilla family, visitors can also engage in tracking the beautiful golden monkeys, experiencing the interesting Batwa culture, involving in bird watching, climbing the three magnificent volcanoes that is Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabyinyo and Mount Gahinga.

On your visit to Mgahinga National Park for Nyakagezi gorilla family tracking, you should not worry about where you will stay because this park has a lot of classic, cozy and cost-effective accommodation facilities. These include Mutanda Lake Resort, Kisoro Tourist hotel, Mount Gahinga Safari Lodge, Kisoro Traveler’s Rest Hotel, Virunga hotel and campsites.

If you’re interested in tracking this amazing gorilla group, you can either reach it by road or air transport. You can also rent a car in Uganda and drive to this amazing place by yourself. Mgahinga is located in south western Uganda approximately 494 kilometers / 8 to 9 hours journey from Uganda’s main city, Kampala or 142 kilometers/ 3 to 4 hours journey from Kigali, Rwanda. By road, the longest route is Kampala-Mbarara-Kabale and finally to Kisoro (commonly used route) while the shortest route is from Kigali- Ruhengeri via Cyanika border post to Kisoro. You can also take scheduled flights from Entebbe International Airport/ Kajjansi Airstrips and land in Kisoro Airstrip where you can get transferred to the park on the road.

In conclusion, Nyakagezi gorilla family is the only amazing gorilla group habituated in Mgahinga National Park and offers an ultimate life changing experience to visitors who track it.

 

 

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Gorilla trekking is a mostly done activity and many tourists go to Bwindi Impenetrable National park for a thrilling face-to-face encounter with mountain gorillas. Comparing Bwindi Impenetrable National park with other safari destinations including Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park in Congo and Uganda’s Mgahinga National Park which have mountain gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has the highest population of these amazing species with over 400 primates.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is situated in the south western region of Uganda along the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) border next to Virunga National park on the edge of the Albertine Rift (approximately 8 to 9 hours drive from Uganda’s main city, ‘Kampala’), and covering an area of 321 square kilometers. Bwindi has 4 sectors including Nkuringo, Buhoma, Rushaga and Ruhija sector where gorilla trekking is carried out and each sector has different habituated gorilla families. In case you want to go for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you have to be very selective on which gorilla group to trek so that the booking work is eased in terms of Gorilla permits and accommodations. When making a choice of the sector to do your trekking from, keep it in mind that all the four sectors are equally interesting and reward a life changing experience when it comes to gorilla trekking.

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park can take about 30 minutes to 6 hours depending on one’s physical fitness, nature of the habitat and where to find the gorilla family allocated. Note, only one hour is added onto you to spend with the gorillas while taking photos, studying their behaviors, capturing videos and many others once you have sighted them.

Gorilla families in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has about 20 habituated gorilla families that are set for tourism and split in the 4 sectors of the park. Buhoma sector in the north has Katwe gorilla family, Mubare gorilla family, Habinyanja gorilla family and Rushegura gorilla family, Ruhija sector in the east has Oruzogo gorilla family, Bitukura gorilla family, Mukiza gorilla family and Kyaguriro gorilla family (only for research), Rushaga sector situated in the south has Nshogi gorilla family, Mishaya gorilla family, Kahungye gorilla family, Busingye gorilla family, Bweza gorilla family, Kutu gorilla family, Mucunguzi gorilla family, Bikingi gorilla family and the newest gorilla group called Rwigi, and finally the Nkuringo sector found in the southern part of Bwindi has Nkuringo gorilla family, Bushaho gorilla family and Christmas gorilla family.

Gorilla habituation in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Besides gorilla trekking, Bwindi Impenetrable National park is also well known for its Mountain gorilla habituation. Bwindi has only 2 gorilla habituation groups to trek that is Bushaho and Bikingi found in Nkuringo and Rushaga sector respectively. Note, Gorilla habituation groups trekking takes about 4 hours and it is more expensive (a permit costs $1500) compared to gorilla trekking (costs $600).

Gorilla permits

Gorilla trekking permits cost $600 per person and gives you an hour to spend face to face with the gorillas. Gorilla permits are obtained direct from UWA (Uganda Wildlife Authority) or through any tour company that offers safari packages to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Note, you should book a gorilla permit 3 weeks before the exact day of the safari and this will also ease the accommodation booking work for the tour organizer.

Rules for Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

• A maximum number of 8 people are allowed to trek a gorilla group in a day
• Persons below the age of 15 are not allowed to conduct the gorilla trekking
• Maintain a distance of 7 meters away from the gorillas
• Turn the flashlight of the camera off while taking photos with the mountain gorillas
• Neither eat, drink nor smoke while with the gorillas
• Trekkers with cough and flu are not allowed to do the tracking because you might make the gorillas also to become sick
• Keep your voice at a minimum note while carrying out the trekking activity but ask as many questions as possible
• Move slowly and carefully without waving your hands unnecessarily
• Do not look directly into the gorilla’s eyes because at times they can charge
• Visitors are allowed to spend a maximum time of only one hour while with the gorillas
• Endeavor not to walk away from your group when you are near the mountain gorillas
• Do not touch the mountain gorillas

What to carry for gorilla trekking

• Waterproof hiking boots
• Gorilla trekking permit (at $600)
• A valid passport and visa
• Sweater
• Insect repellents
• Long sleeved shirts
• Long trousers
• Rain jackets
• Hat
• Garden gloves
• First Aid kit
• Camera
• Walking stick
• A porter
• Bottled water and energy giving snacks
• Sunglasses and sunscreen

Other activities to enjoy in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

• Bird watching
• Nature walks/Hiking
• Batwa cultural encountering
• Mountain biking

Where to stay in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Apart from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park’s attractions, it has a variety of accommodation facilities that are not only spacious but also comfortable thus, making your safari a stunning one. These accommodation facilities range from luxurious hotels to budget camps and options are provided to the visitors planning to have a safari to this remarkable park.

Below are the accommodation facilities and are arranged basing on the 4 sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park;

In Buhoma sector, there is Buhoma community Rest camp, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Lake Kitandara Bwindi Camp, Buhoma Lodge, Silver back Lodge, Engagi Lodge, Volcanoes Safaris Bwindi Lodge, CTPH Gorilla Conservation Camp, Gorilla Resort, Mahogany springs camp, Bwindi Guest House, Bwindi View Bandas, Eco Marvels Gorilla Resort, Gorilla Friends Lodge and Jungle View Lodge.

Nkuringo sector accommodation facilities include Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Nkuringo Gorilla Camp, Nshongi Camp and Chameleon Hill Lodge.

In Ruhija sector, there is Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge, Ruhija Gorilla Mist Camp, Trekkers Tavern cottages, Gift of Nature Lodge, Ruhija Gorilla Resort, Ruhija Gorilla Friends Resort & Campsite and Ruhija Community Rest Camp.

Rushaga sector has Gorilla Safari Lodge, Chameleon Hill Lodge and Rushaga Gorilla Camp.

How to get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park can be accessed by both road and air.

By road

You can reach Bwindi from Kampala via Mbarara approximately 8 to 9 hours drive, from Queen Elizabeth National Park to the north which is about 2 to 3 hours drive and from Kabale town to the south (approximately 1 to 2 hours drive to the park). All these roads converge at Butogota which is just 17 kilometers away from Buhoma entrance gate and a 4 – wheel drive vehicle is recommended.

By Air

You can fly from Entebbe International Airport/ Kajjansi Airfield to Kisoro’s tarmac airstrip. You can as well use chartered planes to the Savannah/ Kayonza airstrips.

 

 

 

 

USEFUL TIPS ON RENTING A WEDDING CAR

Are you planning for your wedding soon and you need to hire that special car to make your day unique? Perhaps, it is everyone’s dream to wed but usually certain factors limit most people. Your wedding day is remarkably that long dream day that comes with lots of joy and so there is need for you to work out certain things as early as possible one of which is transportation. This means that the choice you make should be a great one and not of regrets and to avoid any kind of disappointments, we believe that these tips will of great help to you.

Ensure you have booked your dream car early enough

Due to high demand, there is no need for you to wait till the last day otherwise, you will be left in disappointments. Note, planning for wedding takes a process and this comes with some stress and after happiness. Not to let headache to take over you, booking for that dream wedding car earlier enough is the best way to go. We recommend even that you do it at least six months earlier and if you are a kind who needs that unique model, then looking for it at least a year prior your wedding date is the best.

Book with a trust worthy company

Despite the fact that many Uganda self drive companies have come up with the same offers, you have to be careful on which one you intend to deal with as not all of them can be trusted. Avoid these road side car hires or individuals and at least deal with a registered company because it is recognized. To be on a safer side, we are a reliable and trust worthy car Rental Company in Uganda that can make your dreams come true. Dealing with a registered car hire company like ours is of great significance the fact that you have somewhere to go in case of anything. To others, they feel saving is the best and they opt for borrowing from colleagues, yes, this is one way to go but it is important if you did it with still a trust worthy lender otherwise to avoid being let down on the last minute.

Arrange appointments with car Rental Company

Once you have chosen your dream car, make sure you meet up with car Hire Company you intend to deal with to ensure that the car you intend to use that day is of that style and matches your wedding. Most importantly, you can carry out an independent research or pay a visit to the company’s office and find out which terms and conditions are set for their car hire. Besides, you can even request them to make some changes on specific areas that you feel the car they intend to offer you isn’t in.

Know how many cars are required for that day

You have to expect large number in such occasions so know how many people are expected to be part of this event. This will help you know how many vehicle are needed for the day and still booking it earlier is a requirement that you should bear in mind. Other factors that should be put taken note of is know if you as a couple want to be together or in different cars from that of maids and grooms men. Hence carrying capacity also becomes one important factor to consider and this can be determined by how many people are expected to be part of your wedding party. Most importantly, a limousine can be better for some status however, make your best choice depending on your budget.

Know your budget

How much you have planned to spend on car hire matters a lot as this will help you know kind of car to hire depending on latest cars on market and also helps you avoid incurring debts because you never planned your things well. Therefore make sure that you live within your means and don’t be in a competition because your friend used this number of cars or this type of car so you should also have the same.

Take note of where your wedding and reception venue        

This is very important tip to take note of as this will help you know which kind of vehicle to rent for your day. Note that some cars may not be reliable for long distances. Besides, this can also help you know how much you will pay as costs may differ if your wedding is destined within a city center or in the rural area.

In conclusion, for your wedding day to be memorable the above tips should be put consideration and you won’t be left in regrets. Enjoy your ride during you dream day with our exceptional range of bridal car hire!

Rent a car in Uganda to make your tip convenient

Many people normally take trips to enjoy the ecstasy of peacefulness and stillness as this cannot be enjoyed when you are working. So everything that is attached to the person’s trip must be stress relieving and leisurely. But some people yield the otherwise due to the choices they make when traveling as some choose to use public transport due to its cheapness forgetting it can ruin their trips as this means of transport is very hectic and annoying some times. One has to wait for the bus or taxi to take him/her to the preferred destination and one has to deal with other nagging passengers who may be doing some antics one may not like. The only way to avoid that stress is by renting a car to make your trip convenient for you and enjoyable. It becomes even more interesting when you opt for a self drive in Uganda because you get the chance of traveling to any destination in the country all by yourself.

The following are the advantages of renting a car for your trip
The car will be waiting to pick you up from the airport after your flight to take to the hotel or any other place you may wish if you rent a car. But for other cases you will have to wait for the taxi or at times you will have to look for the shuttle to set off which can tend to be wastage of time and also very stressing.

You do not have to be worried of how you going to reach your destination in Uganda as you will be having a chauffeur who knows all the routes that can lead you to the destination without any hassle and also in case you are using self drive car hire Uganda, the car rental company normally provides with a gps navigator that can help you get the bearings of the area or destination you are traveling to.

You have no time restriction when you rent a car. You are able to drive or go to any destination at any time you may wish for. There is no timetable to which you are supposed to start off your journey or to be in any place. You are your own guide and timer.

When you rent a car, you can have a vehicle of your choice. You cannot be forced to travel in the vehicle you may not like, for example if you making a family trip, you are offered a vehicle that is spacious enough to accommodate the family members you are traveling with. If you are want to cruise in a luxury vehicle you can have it provided provided you have the resources that can pay for it.