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Queen Elizabeth National Park

January 17, 2017

Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in western region of Uganda covering districts like Kasese, Bushenyi and Rukungiri. The park borders with Kigezi and the Virunga National Park of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC); and Kyambura Game Reserves in the west, Kibale National Park in the East and the Rwenzori Mountains in the north. The park covers a geographical area of 1,978 sq.km (764 sq. miles) and is 5 times bigger than Lake Mburo National Park.

The park is distinguished for its volcanic features, comprising volcanic cones and vast craters, many with crater lakes such as Lake Katwe where a lot of salt is mined. As one of the most accepted and admired game reserves for anyone with a keen interest in wildlife safaris, stunning nature and attractive view, Queen Elizabeth National was long-established in 1954 as Kazinga Game Reserve and later it was named after Queen Elizabeth II of United Kingdom. Queen Elizabeth National Park has different habitats including Maramagambo Forest, the savannah plains of Kasenyi, the Kyambura escarpment and the Kazinga Channel among others.

Flora and Fauna in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Geographically, the park runs from the foothills of the Rwenzori crater in the north to the shores of Lake Edward to the remote Ishasha River in the south, Lake George and Kazinga Channel, combining a widespread diversity of habitats like savanna, wetlands and lowland forests amongst others. The park covers different vegetation types which include; Medium elevation humid partly-deciduous forests, moist thicket, riparian forest, riverine bush land, open woodland, open grassland, seasonal and permanent swamps, lakes and rivers.

Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) is prominent for its wildlife like hippopotamuses, elephants, leopards, lions and chimpanzees and many others and it is a dwelling place for over 95 species of mammal and over 600 species of birds.

Some of these birds including the African Mourning Dove, Grey-headed Kingfisher, Swamp Fly-catcher, Grey-capped Warbler, The beautiful Black-headed Gonolek, Collard Pranticles, Pin-tailed Whyda Martial Eagle, Gabon and Slender-tailed Nightjars, Great and Long-tailed Cormorants, Black-rumped Buttonquail, Common Squaco Heron, Shoebill Stork, African Open-billed Stork, African Fish Eagle, African Jacana, Malachite and Pied Kingfishers, African Skimmer, Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl, Black Bee-eater, White-tailed Lark, White-winged Warbler, Papyrus Gonolek, Papyrus Canary, Great white and Pink-backed Pelicans, White-winged Terns, among others.

Activities in the Park

(a) Wildlife safaris/ Game viewing
(b) Boat rides on the Kazinga Channel that links Lake Edward to Lake George.
(c) Bird watching,
(d) Guided nature walks
(e) Chimpanzee trekking

BIRD WATCHING TOURS

The main camp at Mweya is attractively positioned with fine views of the Rwenzori Mountains a number of extensive bush species may be seen in the environs of the airstrip. Along the airstrip, you watch for the African Mourning Dove, Grey-capped Warbler, Grey-headed Kingfisher, Yellow-backed and Lesser Masked Weavers, Swamp Fly-catcher, The Beautiful Black-headed Gonolek, Red-chested sunbird, Slender-billed, Pin-tailed Whydah and brimstone Canary, Gabon and Slender-tailed Nightjars.

The Kazinga channel is a crowd-puller for water birds, a launch cruise on the channel exposes bird species like the Great-white and Pink-backed Pelicans, Great and Long-tailed Cormorants, Common Squaco Heron, African open-billed Strok, White-faced Whistling and Knob-billed Ducks, African Fish Eagle, Black Crake, African Jacana, Water Thick-knee, Spur-winged and African Wattled Plovers, Malachite and Pied kingfishers, Swamp flycatchers and Yellow backed Weavers are all common and conspicuous.

A number of migrants hit the highest point in February and March and are nothing short of incredible with hundreds of thousands of White-winged Terns hovering over the water, millions of common sand Martins and Yellow -wagtails roosting in reed-beds and lesser numbers of palaeartic waders like the Ringed Plover, Little Stint, Curlew Sandpipers, Common Snipe, Black-tailed Godwit, Marsh, common and Wood sandpipers, Spotted Redshank and widespread Greenshank feed along the swampy outer edges.

A number of uncommon species have been recorded from the hippo wallows along the channel including Eurasian Wigeon, Common Teal, Northern Pochard, Mongolian Plover and Jack Snipe. Hundreds of African Skimmers may well be seen roosting on sandbars near the way in to Lake Edward but are migrants from southern tropics and regularly at hand only from December to May. The Kazinga channel may also be viewed from the Katunguru Bridge on the Mbarara-Kasese main road where Pelicans, Terns, Greater Swamp and winged Warblers, Winding and Carruther’s Cisticolas and Papyrus Gonolek may be noticed.

THE ISASHA SECTOR

The Ishasha sector is a part of Queen Elizabeth National Park and boasts of many herbivorous animals. The Ishasha sector is a home to tree-climbing lions that are at times spotted resting in the branches of the huge fig trees in the area. Even though tree lions are not easy to spot, the guides of Queen Elizabeth National Park record sightings on a daily basis, they therefore have a good plan about their whereabouts in the park. The fig trees which the lions climb, stretch out along the roads in the Ishasha sector, offering to you an opportunity of noticing the lions close to the vehicle, giving you a clear platform for taking pictures.

Around the Ishasha Sector, there are accommodation facilities that include; the Wilderness Camp is an special tented camp that offers superior lodging in the natural isolated southern sector of Queen Elizabeth Park, the Ishasha Wilderness Camp is another excellent part for exceptional game viewing opportunities, with a wide variety of buffalo, elephants, kobs, topi and many more.

MARAMAGAMBO FOREST

Maramagambo Forest is among the biggest forests in Uganda with medium altitude humidity. The distinctiveness of such forest is more and more becoming uncommon in Africa. It has very fantastic lakes and craters. It is the single place in the park where one could find Blue Lakes.

Other outstanding attractions in the forest consist of; primates like L’host monkeys, Chimpanzees, bush baby, baboons, vervet monkeys, red-tailed monkeys and many more. Owing to its location, Maragambo has a high variety of butterflies. The bat and the hunters cave are the other enjoyable experiences that the forest has and not forgetting the many bird species.

THE NORTHERN CRATER AREA

This place has a scenic area of explosion craters, some containing salt lakes, formed by volcanic activity some thousand years ago. Some of these craters are dry. These characteristic stunning vantage points are waterless during the dry season.

How to access Queen Elizabeth National Park

The journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park is something like 5 to 6 hours drive from Kampala going through Mpigi, Masaka, Lyantonde, Mbarara, Bushenyi and is also easy to get to from Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The park is easily reached by road or air transport. The Main Camp and Park Headquarters at Mweya is a well-located base for exploring the places in the northern part of the park, at the same time as the road network running from Ishasha Camp and Ranger Post, 80 kms to the south, gives a right of way into the Ishasha Sector.

Accommodation

The park has a variety of accommodation which range from budget to mid range and luxury. Some of these include; Mweya Safari Lodge, Jacana Safari Lodge, Simba Safari Camp, The Institute of Ecology, Mweya Hostel and Camping

Rwenzori Mountain National Park

Myuganda

January 17, 2017

The Rwenzori Mountain is the utmost mountain range in the whole of Africa, with 6 glacial peaks that include Mount Speke, Mount Stanley, Mount Gessi, Mount Emin Pasha, Mount Luigi da Savoia and Mount Baker. The main peaks can be feasibly compared to those of Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya. These two peaks, Margherita (5.109m) and Alexandra (5.083m) on Mount Stanley are audacious for any adventurous mountain hiker in Africa. Rwenzori National Park located in the western part of Uganda on the border of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo cover 998 sq km and was named after the famous Rwenzori Mountains which are also famously referred to as the ‘Mountains of the Moon’.

Rwenzori has unique glacial peaks able to be seen miles away as one travels in the Western part of Uganda. The Rwenzori Mountains offer spectacular landscape to the national park. The mountain slopes are above 1,600m and are a preserve of hikers, who rate the Rwenzoris to be the most challenging of all African mountains. Rwenzori has five various vegetation Zones and these are grassland include (1000-2000m), montane forest (2000-3000m), bamboo/ mimulopsis zone (2500-3500m), Heather/ Rapanea zone (3000-4000m) and the afro-alpine moorland zone (4000-4500m), which has forests of giants heather plants, giant lobelias and groundsels. The Rwenzori mountain vegetation is according to the altitude

Rwenzori Mammals
About 70 mammal species which consist of elephants, chimpanzees, golden cat, yellow-backed duiker, buffaloes, blue monkeys, Rwenzori colobus monkeys, forest hogs, hyrax and leopards plus many more have been recorded.

Rwenzori Birds
The park is gifted with over 177 bird species, these include the; Francolins, illadopsis, robin, Rwenzori turaco, apalis, owl, Archer’s ground robin, Olive Pigeon, cinnamon-chested bee-eater, White Necked Raven, barred long-tailed cuckoo, golden-winged sunbird, Lagden’s bush shrike and Mountain Buzzards plus many other endangered and widespread species which are rare elsewhere.

Rwenzori Tour Activities.
Safari activities at Rwenzori Mountains National Park include:
– Mountain hiking/Climbing tours
– Trekking safaris
– Wildlife tours
– Birding safaris

Visiting tourists are keen to take on the central circuit trail which cover 6 nights 7 days to complete and enables one to see the main peaks. Other shorter hikes can take up to 4 days. Generally, hiking is the well-known vacation activity to undertake in the park and it takes you via all the vegetation zones and leads you to the glacial peaks. Nevertheless, with hiking, the high peaks should be attempted by experienced mountaineers only, for safety reasons. Nature walks that expose one to various animal and bird species are also regularly liked by visitors.

Accommodation.
Kasese town, a close neighbour to Rwenzori has many affordable accommodation facilities of all classes of people. Rwenzori Mountaineering Service also offers accommodation facilities like huts with bunk beds along the central circuit.

Access to Rwenzori.
To get to Rwenzori Mountain National Park, you can either use road transport or air transport means. To reach the Park Headquarters at Nyakalegija, one can either travel to Fort Portal or Kasese, both in Western Uganda. Fort Portal, which is 300km from Kampala, can be reached via Mubende town. Total journey time is about 4hrs. Kasese, which is about 350km from Kampala, can be reached via Masaka, Mbarara and Bushenyi. The Kasese direction, although longer at 6hrs, is plausibly more exciting as it goes through the excellent Queen Elizabeth National Park, an optional pause in your trip. A chartered plane can properly be arranged by AAB Tours and Travel. By air, you land to Kasese airstrip from where you are able to move a short journey to the park.
Health and safety measures while mountaineering

The high attitude and the wet conditions of the Rwenzori and can deficiently affect visitors who are not experienced. Note that the following health problems are possible and you have to be prepared:
1. Hypothermia,
2. Dehydration,
3. Altitude sickness,
4. AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness)
5. HAPE (High altitude sickness pulmonary edema)
6. HACE (High altitude cerebral edema).

What you need for successful mountain hiking
Besides a high level of physical fitness, you ought to ensure that at least the following equipment are in your custody prior to hiking the Rwenzoris;

1. Hiking Boots, Gum boots: A strong set of hiking boots is essential, principally in the early stages of the climb and in the trek across the glaciers. Gum boots are vital equipment in the mud-covered sections of the mountain trail.

2. Rucksack: A powerful waterproof bag is necessary. Most times, Rwenzori can be wet. This will help maintain your essential items dry as you hike.

3. Cooking utensils: If you intend to do your own cooking, a light stove, some plates and cups should be in your possession. It is possible to hire a cook for the trip but still plan to have at least the bare essentials like the plates, cups, forks, knifes and others.

4. Warm stuff: After the first camp, the mountain gets much colder below 10°C and certainly below freezing at some camps. Good warm shirts and pants, a decent sleeping bag are all necessary. A good pair of warm waterproof gloves is necessary for whoever is hiking up to the peaks.

5. Emergency kits: Emergency medication is essential. For a large part of the expedition, you will be at least a day away from even the best emergency services.

6. Food: Most climbers carry their own food. Some food can also be bought at the Park Headquarters. You need energy giving food, glucose packs, sweetened juice mixers, chocolate and dry porridge mix are recommended. No need to carry water as the mountain provides lots of natural, sparkling, safe drinking water.

7. Equipment: All camps have huts but you may wish to carry a tent as it can improve trip flexibility and ensure to bring the common camping gears like the lighter, torch, toiletries, GPS to mention. However keep in mind that while you will have porters to help you out carry your equipment, there is a hard limit (22kg) as to how much each porter will carry: You therefore have to hire more porters if you have lots of kit.
The Park Headquarter has limited number of tents, rucksacks and boots for hire, be sure to speak to them before-hand to establish availability. Park offices also provides crampons, ice axes and ropes for hire, for those planning to try any of the peaks but you may bring your own. Warm objects can usually be bought in Kampala. Food and medicines can be acquired from any decent supermarket in Kampala or Kasese.

Rwenzori Mountain Climbing Tips
Arranging your Rwenzori trek is not significantly different from planning any other trip. Keeping in mind that trekking necessitates a large measure of constant physical energy for days up to the end where definite fundamental rules are relevant. One should also be reasonably fit, with good cardiovascular and respiratory performance.
Excellent information for Rwenzori Climbers

1. Be on familiar terms with your body: Don’t set your body through more pressure than it can handle. Once you tired, take a rest. Hiking should not be taken on like a competition. At higher altitudes especially from day 3 and beyond, watch out for signs of “Altitude Sickness” (brought on by low oxygen), which include shortness of breath, headache, loss of appetite. Harsh Altitude Sickness can be critical. Keep your guides informed of how you are feeling, so that they can give advice to you as a result. Do not assume your situation will automatically get better.

2. Safety First: Mountain rescue is a complex and dangerous undertaking. Certainly at camps like Kitandara, an evacuation will usually take two days and involves a host of porters and rangers.

3. Energy foods: Eating energy foods will greatly boost your experience as it will trim down exhaustion. Sugary snacks like chocolates, glucose biscuits and many more are generally very helpful all along the hike. Salty snacks like crackers help prevent muscle cramps.

4. Drink Lots of Water: Water is fine for you, principally at higher altitudes, where it helps reduce the effects of altitude illness. Clean drinking water is in plenty on the mountain from a number of springs.

5. Keep Warm: keeping warm will assist in good spirits as it prevents sickness. At higher altitudes, it is likely to fall with no notice: A warm pair of waterproof gloves is advised.

6. Interact With The Guides: Uganda Wildlife Authority has trained Park guides. Speak to your guides; ask questions as much as possible. The relationship you create with your guides, rangers and porters, the more they will share attention-grabbing insights.

7. Sunburn: look out for sun burn. Wear a top and if your skin colour calls for it, wear a sunscreen.

Mount Elgon National Park

Myuganda

January 17, 2017

Found in Eastern Uganda near Mbale and lying across the Uganda-Kenya boarder, Mount Elgon National Park is covers 1,145 square kilometers. The is known to be the fourth highest mountain in East Africa and second in having the topmost peak in Uganda, towering up to 4321 meters.

An extinct volcano, Mt. Elgon is said to have stood taller than Mountain Kilimanjaro of today during the ancient times. Mount Elgon is beleived to have first erupted more than 24 million years ago. Locally known as Mt. Masaba, Elgon has got three other major peaks which are Kiongo (4303m), Mubiyi (4210m) and Jackson’s summit (4165m). Masaba is the name of the founding ancestor of the Bagisu assumed to have emerged from a cave on its slopes several centuries ago. Masaba’s spirit is believed to be embodied by Jackson’s Summit but may be the taller Kiongo peak.

The mountain is also an important watershed for different rivers including River Sipi that forms the splendid Sipi falls. The mountain slopes support an affluent range of vegetation zones like the montane forest, high open moorland covered by the mature giant lobelia and groundsel plants. The mountain has crater covering about 40kilometres on its top surrounded by a several rocky peaks. Mt. Elgon Park has a large collection of fauna and flora species, for example the Bamboo, heath and moorland zones plus animals such as leopards, Blue and White Colobus monkey, hyena and buffalos. The bird species comprise of the African Goshawk, Mackinon’s Fiscal, the Bablafecht weaver and many others.

Activities:
Bird watching, mountain climbing, trekking, day hikes, forest exploration and camping are among the major activities. A selection of attractions outside the park like lodging facilities and campsites in addition to the splendid Sipi falls placed 66 km from Mbale makes a trip pleasant. Community visits and participation in Imbalu dances, scenery walks from Budadiri trailhead can also be made.

1. Flora and Fauna
As you travel up along Elgon’s slopes, you will go through the chunky montane forest with mixed bamboo belts intensely characterized by a number of bird species. You will then join attractive moorland zones with several interesting endemic plant species like the Giant lobelia and groundsels. Lovers of the natural world will spot primates such as the Black and White Colobus Monkey, Blue Monkey, uncountable captivating bird species like Golden Winged and Tacazze sunbirds, Ross’s and Hartlaubs Turacos, Black and White Casqued and Crowned Hornbills. The defenseless Lammergeier and the Jackson’s Francolin found nowhere in Uganda apart from here will be seen. With a wholehearted watching, you will be able to see buffalo, elusive leopard, duiker and the shy hyena. Attractive to see as well are the forest monkeys that fill up the forest top as the gigantic forest Hog, Bushbuck, Antelope, Civet, Wildcat, Bush Duiker, Jackal, Rock Hyrax and Elephant move around the tropical rain woodland.

2. Birding
Chubb’s Cisticola, African Goshawk, White-chinned Prinia, African Blue Fly-catchers, Chin-spot Batis, Mackinon’s Fiscal, Doherty’s and Luhder’s Bush-Shrikes and Baglafecht Weaver are seen at the forest and thick scrub alongside the Chebonet River close to the camp.

3. Trekking in the Routes
The area has two key opening points that show the way to the Elgon peaks.
– Salsa Trail Buddukiro trailhead, this is mainly reachable easily from Mbale and a direct route to the peaks going via the Park’s largest area of bamboo wooded area. But is also a steep and rough ascend of about 1600metres on the opening day.

– Pisa trail/Kapkwata trailhead, a calm climb can cover up 660metres on the first day deciding to climb through here. As you move on this route, you can see the sights of the vast Podocarpus forest, an admirable place for flora and fauna watching. An entire trekking journey to the mountain peaks runs for 4-5 days. It is worthwhile that visitors talk about the trekking options with the information clerks at the Mbale, Budadiri or Kapkwata Visitors’ Centres.

4. Safari Activities
Hiking is the most important tourism activity. Mountain climbing is not so much tedious implying, it can be done by an average and experienced hikers. In addition to the interesting and distinctive plants and animals, one can experience the splendid waterfalls, big caves, beautiful peaks and gorges and the spectacular hot springs which boil up at 48′C. The perfect trip periods are the dry seasons, say from June-August and December-March. But still even during cold months, trekking is practicable and gratifying. Precisely, with or with no mountaineering skills, one can trek to all major peaks with no difficulty.

5. What to come along on the tour.
Come along with tent, sleeping bag, warm clothes, gloves, hat, powerful hiking shoes, flashlight cameras, water bottle, rain gear, first aid kit, food preparation tools and sufficient foodstuffs.

6. Mt. Elgon Camping.
There are 9 campsites placed at different points along the trekking route. It is wise that visitors abide by park rules by staging camps only at gazetted sites. No camping is acceptable in the caldera. The mountain’s camping is ancient and traditional requiring all the important camping tools to be carried by the tourist. But things like tents and sleeping bags are readily offered for hire at the park. Bring a warm jacket and rain gear for unpredictable weather conditions at the mountain for the period of the expedition. A fuel- camp stove is also essential for use to keep away from abusing the firewood of the natural environment.

7. Park Rangers and Porters
Benignly make use of a trained park ranger to direct you on the whole trekking journey since rangers are well-acquainted with the routes, safety measures, communication and cultural histories of all the places hiked. Local porters will be of help in carrying up to 18kilogrammes of your stuff, prepare meals, setting up and removing your camp plus bringing water for use. There are fees for the guide and the porter per stage. The wages cover the guide or porter’s park visitation fee and the cost of adequate food and supplies. Trained ranger guides and local porters are available at all trailheads. Please ask for a guide’s license before hiring to ensure you are dealing with the genuine personality. As an affair of safety, a ranger escort should be hired while visiting the calderas or mounting the peaks. You will meet your ranger guide at Sasa or Piswa patrol hut where you have got to present your park receipt prior to moving forward upwards.

8. Mt. Elgon Day Hikes.
On Mt. Elgon, the Forest Exploration Centre has 3-day trails covering about 3 to 7 kilometres. The trails award a pleasurable experience of the Elgon’s unusual flora and fauna. To get to the huge Tutum Cave, 11 km from the centre, you are facilitated by the fourth trail. The trail goes all the way through a range of vegetation types rendering clear pictures for wildlife such as Black and White Colobus Monkeys and a selection of birds.

9. Attractions outside Mt. Elgon National Park
The spectacular Sipi Falls are found 66 km from Mbale, en-route to the Forest Exploration Centre and Kapkwata. Numerous local trails make day hikes possible through welcoming local villages with stunning farming. Pleasant campsites, lodge facilities, including meal services and hot showers are offered at Crow’s Nest located near the Sipi trading centre. More comfortable accommodation is at the Sipi Falls Resort. Better get a guide to take you steadily through the one and half hour walk to the Forest Exploration Centre. Nagudi rock has 7 open rock-climbing routes, half-way between Mbale and Budadiri. Mountaineers need to carry their own mountain climbing tools because these routes are bolt.

ACCOMMODATION
Easy accommodation facilities are on hand inside the Park at the Kapkwata Rest House and the Forest Exploration Centre at Kapkwai. Prior arrangements through the Mount Elgon National Park Visitors’ office in Mbale are necessary as these facilities do not provide accommodation for large numbers of visitors. Cookery services are offered, but visitors should bring their own food supplies or have money to buy food upon arrival. The Forest Exploration Centre also carries out a four-day environmental program for school groups of up to 30 students which allow children to experience a living forest environment while learning the importance of environmental conservation. There is a dormitory -form rooms and bathing facilities with running water. There is also an up-market lodge at Sipi Falls, Midrange hotels in Mbale plus budget lodging at Sipi Falls, Mbale and Budadiri.

HOW TO GET THERE.
Mount Elgon national park is 235 kilometers from Kampala to the eastern side of Uganda. Driving to the mountain takes you through Mukono, Buikwe, Jinja, Iganga, Bugiri, Palisa to Mbale town at the western stand of the Mount, before climbing to Kapchorwa on the north-western bloc of Mount Elgon. Murram roads show the way off the Mbale Kapchorwa road to get to the various trailheads. In Mbale town, Mount Elgon National Park Information Office is on Plot 19/21 Masaba Road, near Mount Elgon Hotel. This office which is open from 08.00-13:00 and 14, 00-17, 00, Mon-Fri and 09.00-13.00 on Saturdays is available to give you as much as necessary information concerning the park.

IDEAL TIME TO VISIT MOUNT ELGON:
Mount Elgon lower slopes are fine and ideal for visiting throughout the year. And the drier months from June to August, then December to March constitute the most outstanding periods for climbing the mountain.

Lake Mburo National Park

Myuganda

January 17, 2017

Lake Mburo National Park is located in western Uganda. The park is situated about 30 kilometers east of Mbarara town. Lake Mburo is the largest of the five lakes which, together with the nearby wetlands, make up 20% of the park’s surface area of 260 square kilometers. However, having an area of 260 square kilometers only, makes it the smallest of the Uganda’s savanna National Parks. This type of nature makes this park very perfect and thrilling for bird watching (over 310 species) throughout the year. Many travelers use Lake Mburo National Park when they are heading to or from Bwindi Impenetrable and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Flora and Fauna in Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park has a variety of habitats, dry hillside, rocky outcrops, bushes thickets, open and the savanna forests, lakes and swamps which are homes to a range of plants and animals. The park accommodates several species of mammals like antelopes Zebras, Impala, Buffaloes and many bird species including the bill storks. The park’s landscape has softly sloping green hills and enjoyable lake shores with various habitats in the forest galleries, seasonal and permanent swamps and rich acacia wood valleys which all provide a wealth of flora and fauna.

The park is the only place in Uganda where the impala still live and it is the most exceptional place to see the eland, Africa’s biggest antelope. Bigger buffalo and zebra herds are common in this park. The western part of the park consists of Savannah intermingled with rock-strewn ridges and forested gorges, while pieces of papyrus swamp and small bands of green riparian woodland make the edges of the different lakes.

Activities in Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is amongst Uganda’s most charming wildlife destinations and exceptionally enjoyable for game viewing tours, birding safaris, forest walks (on foot in Rubanga forest), guided nature walks, boat trips, fishing, salt licks as well as game hunting.

Bird Watching

There are about 313 various bird species encompassing the rare Shoebill stork and White-winged Warbler in Lake Mburo National Park. Other bird species are the Crested Francolin, common Quails, Emerald-spotted Wood Dove, Greenwood Hoopoe, Brown Parrot, Barefaced Go-away bird, Blue-napped Mousebird, Red necked Spur, Black-billed Barbet, Lilac-breasted Roller, African-grey Hornbill, Nubian Woodpecker, Trilling Cisticola a drive towards Rwonyo camp may show Coqui Francolin, Red necked spur fowl, Black Bellied Bustard, Temminck’s Courser, African-wattle Plover Rufous napped and Flappet larks, Rufuos chested Swallow, Southern Red Bishop and Yellow-throated Long claw.

Forest walk

Forest Walk is done through Rubanga Forest; a walk in this small forest on the western side of Lake Mburo gives an understanding of a tropical elevated forest with sunshade and a watch of a collection of good-looking bird species (40 bird species). Birding in the park is done superlatively with the guiding services of a park warden.

Boat trips in Lake Mburo National park

Lake Mburo is rich in fauna and flora species spotted flawlessly from a boat ride starting from a lakeside campsite near Rwonyo. The crocodiles, hippopotamuses and birds like pelicans, black crake, heron, Cormorant, Fish Eagle and the rare shoebill stork among the fauna that can be seen in a two-hour boat cruise. The interval of each boat cruise is to be discussed with the park administration.

Salt Lick Guided walks

One explores the park around Rwonyo, leading to a visit to a natural salt lick regularly visited by animals. This kind of viewing is facilitated by a timber watching stand. From a platform made of wood, visitors have an opportunity to see at least four different species of animals at any one time as they lick the saline ground. This is made to the animal’s unawareness since the wooden podium works as a disguise.

Nature trail

On the trail, a visitor gets a chance to understand the natural world, walking with supreme liberty in the company of an armed guide.

Fishing

Lake Mburo has about six fish species, common there consist of tilapia, lung fish, mud fish, haplochromes and others fished by means of hooks. Shades for rest for visitors are open at the campsite near the lake.

ACCOMMODATION

The park has accommodation facilities in form of tents at Rwonyo park headquarters and at three public camp sites. Another luxury accommodation is at the tented Mantana Luxury Camp and Mihingo Lodge. Travelers from Kampala can make a stopover and sleep at the various Lyantonde Hotels or those coming from western Uganda can stay in Mbarara town after leaving or before going on to the national park.

ACCESSING LAKE MBURO NATIONAL PARK

Lake Mburo National Park is in Mbarara district. It is a 3 to 4 hours drive from Kampala. Then turn left at 13 km at Akageti after Lyantonde town taking you to Sanga gate. The road is tarmac from Kampala with some comfort. Another drive of 13 kms from Sanga trading center of Sanga gate, then 5 kms from the main road to Nshara gate and a 20-minute drive from Rwonyo Park Head Quarters.

Kidepo Valley National Park

Myuganda

January 17, 2017

Kidepo Valley National park is one of Uganda’s most isolated and fabulous national parks. The park covers 1,442 square kilometers in the rugged, semi-arid valleys of Karamoja region on the far northern Eastern part of Uganda on the border with Sudan. The park has a scenery unmatched to any other park in East Africa as well as great numbers of plant and animal species. Kidepo vegetation is of open tree Savannah varying much in structure, size and composition. Mountain forests take over some of the high places, while areas along the Lorupei River support thick Acacia geradi forests. The ideal time for visiting the park is March-April for all the specials and many transit migrants. But visiting is good for all year-round visiting and a tour would roughly take 4-7 days to optimally exploit all the trip activities in the park.

Key Bird Species.
For birders, the park has over 475 species, the second largest number next to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Birds like the black-breasted barbet and Karamoja Apallis, amongst the Great Lakes Region’s most rare species, are mostly seen at the park. The park is naturally gifted with a number of birds that can provide great times watching by any holiday-maker. These include Ostrich, African Swallow-tailed Kite, Eastern Pale Chanting Goshawk, Pygmy Falcon, Fox Kestrel, Stone Partridge, Clapperton’s and Heuglin’s Francolins, Yellow-necked Spurfowl, Kori, White-bellied and Hartlaub’s Bustards, Eastern Yellow and Jackson’s Hornbills Violet-tipped Courser, Black-headed Plover, Four-banded Sand Grouse, Bruce’s Green Pigeon and Rose-ringed Parakeet.

The park also has the white-crested turaco, White-bellied Go-away bird, White-faced Scoops Owl, Isabelline and Heuglin’s Wheaters, Long-tailed and Standard-winged Nightjars, Little Green Bee-eater, Abyssinian and Rufous-crowned Rollers, Foxy and Red pate Cisticolas, Abyssinian Ground, , Red-fronted and Black-breasted Barbets, Brown-backed Woodpecker, Singing Bush lark, Red-winged Lark, Ethiopian Swallow, Pied, African Grey Flycatcher, Karamoja Apalis, White-bellied Tit, Mouse-coloured Penduline Tit, Northern White-crowned and Yellow-billed Shrikes, Slate-coloured Boubou and Fan-tailed Raven

Others that cannot jump a visitors sight include superb starling, Red billed Oxpecker, Eastern Violet backed, Pygmy and Beautiful Sunbirds, Rufous and Chestnut Sparrow, Yellow-spotted Petronia, White-headed and White-billed Buffalo Weavers, White-browed and Chestnut- crowned Sparrow Weavers, Grey-capped Social and Speckle-fronted Weavers, Green-winged, Orange-winged and Red-winged Pytilias, Black-bellied and Black-faded Waxbill, Steel-blue and Straw tailed Whydahs, Brown-rumped Bunting. Kidepo Valley National Park Activities.

Bird watching Kidepo Valley has Apoka Rest Camp and Park Headquarters facing the southern Narus Valley which is a big spot to commence a wonderful Kidepo bird watching. The park boasts an widespread avifauna, 465 species have been recorded (three new species were added to the list in 1995). Of particular interest, the ostrich and the Kori bustard are predominantly associated with waterless regions.The fine-looking Silverbird and small bands of Yellow-billed Shrike common on thorn trees around camp as well as other types like Vinaceous Dove, Hoopoe, Nubian Woodpecker, Mosque Swallow, Ruppell’s and Superb Starlings, Scarlet-chested Sunbird, Little Weaver and Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu. An everlasting water hole at the edging of the camp attracts swallows and an assortment of seed eaters including Yellow-rumped Seed eater. It is warmheartedly visited at night-time by Four-banded Sandgrouse, Elephant, Buffalo and infrequently by Lions. Clapperton’s Francolin, Black Coucal, African Moustached and Broad-tailed Warblers, Marsh Tchagra and Crimson-rumped Waxbill may be seen in the rank grassland along the normally dry watercourse neighbouring to the camp or along the pathway to Apoka lodge.

Animals to watch
Kidepo Valley National Park has about 80 species of mammals 28 out of which are as well found in other National Parks Uganda. Among them are bat-eared fox, carcal, cheetah and Klipspringer and many more. During President Idi Amin regime (1971-1979), Kidepo like many other Ugandan National Parks suffered much as many animals were killed due to poaching which left many game herds depleted, meaning that the park is still recovering. Mammals including Elephant, Common Zebra, warthog, Cape buffalo, bush pig, Rothschild giraffe, Bohor Reedbuck, eland, bush buck, bush duskier, reed buck, Jackson’s hartebeest, oribi, defassa Waterbucks and Kongoni have exposed a notable raise in numbers. Carnivore species or ppredators unique to Kidepo and Karamoja region include the spotted Hyenas, Leopard, Lion, bat-eared fox, aardwolf, caracal, cheetah, hunting dog, black-backed jackal and side-striped jackal plus many others that are commonly seen in the park. The Narus Valley has Oribis in masses and the Guenther’s Dik Dik are all over the place in the dry thorn wood in the north. Senegal Galago and Side stripy Jackal may be found in the rest camp at night and White-tailed Mongoose is common but more probable to be found on a night drive. Reptiles are also somewhat common in the park. Of the 80 species of mammals listed in 1971, 28 were not identified to occur in any other Ugandan national park.

Hiking and Scenery viewing
Hiking can be made on Lamoj Mountains a not many kilometers from the Park Headquarters. Visitors can also go to view the fabulous Kidepo River Valley dominated by Borassus palm forest; it has a large flat bed that is dry for most of the year. From Kidepo Valley, you may also visit the Kanangorok Hot Springs, which are situated only 11 km from Kidepo river valley. The mountain and Savannah scenery of the park is fantastic. The Narus valley is situated in the South West of the park; the rough Napore-Nyagia mountain range forms its western frontier. Separating it from the Kidepo Valley in the northeast, are the Natira and Lokayot Hills. To the north in the Sudan are the Lotukei Mountains and the Morungole range marks the southern edge of the park.

Traditional Cultural Performances Communities near the park stage cultural dances and performances. Dances like Emuya of the Naporre and Nyangia, Larakaraka and Apiti dances of the Acholi are common and worth seeing or participate in if you so wish. Cultural visits and nature walk to the Karamajong manyattas (homesteads) where you can see kraals local communities’ livestock, traditional costume, stools, spears headdress, knives, bows, arrows and jewellery to mention make a the whole enjoyable and memorable. Visiting the splendid Kidepo River Valley dominated by Borassus palm forest is another good experience. Kanangorok Hot Springs, located only 11 kilometers from Kidepo river valley is a must-visit. Picnicking from the sand is also there.

Picnic at Kidepo
As you visit Kidepo River, spare time and visit the picnic site situated on the sand and you will not fail to hear the sound of palm leaves in a continuous movement in the wind.

Accommodations at Kidepo National Park
1. Apoka Rest Camp overlooking the Narus Valley with comfortable rooms are always available.
2. National Park Bandas at Apoka have items like bedding, mosquito netting, hot showers, fresh drinking water and firewood. It is recommended to carry your own food for your personal preparation or can be cooked for you if you so wish. Camp shop has various types of beverages.
3. The Kakine Campsite, it’s a small distance from Apoka. This campsite has firewood and clean drinking water. Upon arrival at Apoka Rest Camp you can get a ranger-guide to go along with you all over while at the park. A ranger knows many of the bird species. Meals: The Rest Camp or hostel do not stock food, so visitors are for that reason advised to carry enough food and drinks for the period of their stay in the park.

The Rest Camp staff can arrange for the cooking. However other additional diet such as chicken and goat meat can be arranged from the nearby areas for visitors who intend to stay for a longer time.

GOING TO KIDEPO VALLEY NATIONAL PARK
A tourist can use road or air transport. By and large from Kampala, a drive goes covers a distance in about in 11-hours in which 4Wheel Drive vehicles are most suitable.
Going to Kidepo by Road:
Kampala-Jinja-Mbale-Soroti-Moroto-Kidepo-792 km
Kampala-Masindi-Lira-Kotido-Kidepo-705 km
Kampala-Jinja-Mbale-Sironko-Kotido-Kideop-740 km
Kampala-Soroti -Kotido via Amuria 656 km

Driving is more rewarding as vast parts of Karamoja are nice-looking and entirely wilderness. Nevertheless road conditions are sometimes complex and 4-wheel drive vehicles (4WD) are recommended. Visitors should note that the road mainly in use from Kotido to Kaabong passes via Kanawauat.

Travelers who decide to tag along the Soroti-Moroto road will be fascinated by the view of the steep volcano of Alekilek about midway Moroti and Soroti. And for those who take the Lira-Kotido road will enjoy the scenery of the Labwor hills and in particular the massive and bare Alerek (Kidi Rwot) rock about 55 km to Kotido.

Going to Kidepo by Air:
Chartered aircraft are available from Entebbe International Airport to the Park Headoffices. There is an airstrip at Lomej about 3 km south of the Park Headquarters. There are also Chartered aircraft from Kajjanzi to the Park Headquarters. AAB Tours and Travel can arranges for you the best cost-effective air transport means.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Myuganda

January 10, 2017

Penetrating into the Bwindi impenetrable forest national park is a life changing experience you should not miss while on your Uganda wildlife safari. Well-known for being a home for the amazing endangered mountain gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Reserve was set up in 1942 and afterwards elevated to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in 1992. Found in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is part of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest placed along the Democratic Republic of Congo border next to the Virunga National Park on the edge of the western Great Rift Valley. It consists of 331 square kilometres of tropical forest with both montane and lowland forest and is accessible barely on foot. The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site with one of the richest ecosystems in Africa and a diversity of animal and bird species. The park is a habitat for some 120 species of mammals including 7 diurnal primates and about 30 elephants, 346 species of birds, 202 species of butterflies, 163 species of trees, 100 species of ferns, 27 species of frogs, chameleons, geckos and many endangered species.

being a shelter for the highest number of the world’s mountain gorillas, Bwindi impenetrable forest national park is a best place for gorilla safaris in Africa. There are 12 habituated Mountain Gorilla groups open to tourism split in the four sectors of Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga in all corners of the park. The biologically diverse park derives its names from the local language ‘Bwindi’ (dark place) which defines the impenetrable nature of its thick forests.

In 1994, it was acknowledged as the world Heritage site. The word Bwindi means Impenetrable and what makes Bwindi Impenetrable is the fact that it has twisted vegetation wrapped over an intensively fissured backdrop of the sheer, draughty ridges as well as the slippery valleys and hills. The park has a big population of gorillas and is renowned for its coldness in the morning and at night. The coolest months are usually June and July and the average temperature is about 70c-200c. This is the reason why for safari purposes, one should come with warm clothes because Bwindi is so cold and receives about 2390mm of rain. It has two rain seasons, little rains are in the months of March-May and heavy rains are in the months of September as well as November and the rain in Bwindi forest lasts for longer hours.

Hot to get to Bwindi Forest National Park?
Bwindi National Park is found 520 Kilometres from Kampala, Uganda’s capital city. Usually stronger vehicles like 4Wheel Drives are recommended. There are two routes:

1. One can move from Kampala-Kabale (414Kilometres, between 5-7 hours), then Kabale-Kanungu- Kanyantorogo – Buhoma Park Headquarters, about 120kms, a 3.5hour-drive.
2. Kampala-Kabale (414Kms), then to Ruhija and finally to Buhoma which is 95 kilometres, a three-hour drive.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest animal species:

Gorillas, it’s an address for over 360 gorilla beringei, this is half the number of the remaining world mountain gorilla population.
Chimpanzees
Monkey i.e. Hoest’s, red-tailed and blue monkey, black and white colobus
Olive baboon.
Over 346 species of birds registered (Bwindi has 90% of all Albertine Rift endemics.
Over 200 of butterflies.
Mammals i.e. buffaloes, leopards, elephants and many more

Tourist Activities in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Even though Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is major known for harboring Mountain Gorillas, there are many other activities besides gorilla Trekking that any visitor could peacefully undertake and these include

1. Visiting Mountain Gorillas
Gorilla trekking is the core activity in Bwindi to the 4 Gorilla families of gorilla beringei. Bwindi National Park gorillas are organized now in four groups that can be visited by a tourist:

(a) Mubare group, this one has 16 gorillas and 1 silverback.
(b) Habinyanja group with 23 gorillas and 2 silverbacks.
(c) Rushegula group of 9 gorillas and 2 silverbacks.
(d) Nkuring group with 20 gorillas and 2 silverbacks.

The information concerning mountain gorillas can be got from Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Headquarters or Bwindi Impenetrable National Park management or from a tour operator like AAB Tours and Travel. Bwindi Gorilla tracking is a bit tiresome, implying that bodily fitness is a very important aspect. By and large gorilla tracking runs from 8:30 am local Uganda time up to late hours of the day. About 8 permits are sold on a daily basis for each of these groups at UWA offices. So it’s better to book 130 days in advance to ensure proper programming. Visits to the gorillas are restricted for environmental and animal safety reasons and each gorilla group is only visited for one hour a day by a limited number of people who have normally purchased permits months in advance.

Gorilla Trekking Requirements

It is worthwhile to come along with the following items for an efficient tracking of mountain gorillas in Uganda.
Hiking boots- ankle level boots are ok but make sure it is something handy.
Rain Coat
Water proof container for their cameras
A warm cardigan
A pair of binoculars if you are a keen bird watcher.
Video- filming is allowed in the parks though not outside the park
Thick trousers and a long sleeved top are ideal for tracking.
Gloves
If you prefer wearing a hat, a baseball cap is recommended.
Birding in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Bwindi Forest is a central point for birdwatchers. Hiking trails are open to people to view birds, butterflies, primates and trees along the Munyaga, Waterfall, Rushura, River Ivi, Mu bwindi swamp nature walks and Bamboo. Cultural walks can be undertaken to Buhoma village community for seeing traditional homestead, the healer, the banana brewing exercise, traditional handicraft and cultural concerts.

One can watch up to 150 bird species in a day especially at Buhoma and Ruhija. Identify your need to allow proper arrangements in time for the whole day. Bwindi has over 350 bird species, representing a 90% of all Albertine rift Endemics which include:

Short tailed Warbler

White-tailed Blue Monarch
Yellow-eyed black Fly-catcher
Kivu Ground Thrush, Dusky Crimson Wing
Bar-tailed Trogon
Rusty-faced woodland Warbler
Gruer’s Rush Warbler
Wilcock & Honey-guide and many more

A good number of these birds are very uncommon in the Great Lakes Region and the prospects of seeing them in Bwindi forest are high.

Munyanga River Trail
Munyanga river trail is a moving small walk for visitors with restricted time. Interesting to see here are basically birds and primates at the forest fringe. The amazing waterfall trail provides an attractive feature of the forest with a large amount of tree ferns, epithetic ferns, orchids and Bwindi’s colourful collection of butterflies. This trail gives a clear image and a calm of a true tropical rain forest.

Nature Walks
Lasting between 2 to 4 days in the park, there are 4 exciting hiking trails. There is likelihood to see and gain knowledge about primates, different exceptional bird species, butterflies, trees, plants and other organisms on all the four trails. Under the direction of a skilled guide, who is a requirement on the tour, you get a wider knowledge of how the park’s coordination operates. The guides understand well the primatology, ornithology and botany of the park.

Ruizi River Trail
This is the longest of the trails and takes a full day to complete and it is always good for bird lovers. Visitors in 4WD vehicles transport should reflect on crossing the rough centre of the park through Ruhija. While on this Uganda trip, look out for duikers, primates and both forest and grassland bird species. In Ruhija, visitors can get the three-hour panorama crowded trek to the Mubwindi swamp. One can also stroll expediently to the Bamboo zone.

Rushura Trail
This trail is very pleasant for the reason that it commands an open view across the western rift valley floor. To the west, Congo’s Parc Nationale des Virungas provides an impressive backdrop of clear Lake Edward and the Rwenzori Mountain.

Muzabiro Trail
Muzabiro Trail presents relaxed incredible spectacular view of Bwindi Forest, Western Rift Valley and the Virungas. While on your way, you will view a lot of ancient tree ferns. When you get to the top of this trail, you will appreciate the fantastic spot for a picnic lunch.

Bamboo Trail – it is among the areas of the highest range in the park and its trail offers 14 vegetation types. When at the pinnacle of this trail, you are treated to an open picture of the comprehensible water Lake Bunyonyi and the thick Mafuga Forest.

Cultural Performances

In the evenings at Bwindi, there are by and large distinguished by conventional dance performances by local tropes mainly women and orphan groups and money from these performances is intended for improving the lives of the locals who live around the park. One is at liberty to participate in the dancing with the locals, a thrinlling experience indeed.

ACCOMMODATION
Bwindi is exceptional with numerous accommodation facilities of almost all classes of people. Accommodation below is of deluxe, midrange and budget nature:

Mantana, with very luxurious safer tents
Abercrombie and Kent with luxury secure tents.
Ruhinja Guest House
Buhoma Homestead
Savannah Resort Hotel at Kihihi
The local community also operates a clean accommodation camp with a restaurant serving traditional dishes for breakfast, lunch and super
In Kihihi, Savanna Resort Hotel is 40 kilometres to Buhoma and near Ishasha sector, of Queen Elizabeth National Park

Gorilla Trekking Precautions

When you come across the gorillas, make an effort to be obedient as much as possible.
Try to give a sideway look; don’t look at them straight in the face.
Stick tightly to the group
Talk softly or in whispers
They don’t like flash photography
Gorillas are wild

Gorillas are a bit wild and should not be irritated carelessly. Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has a warning notice that it does not take any responsibility for any injury sustained by wild animals in their habitats, therefore, always:

Keep your distance of about 7 metres from the gorillas
Do not give food to the gorillas
Know that gorillas have a right of the way
Do not persuade them to get into contact with you in any way
Do not eat in the environs of the gorillas

Gorilla Health
Currently; there are just about 700 mountain gorillas in the world. Thus these animals are classified as endangered species.

To keep away from transmitting human diseases to them;

Try to avoid tracking if you are suffering from transmittable diseases. In case you develop a severe case of flu, your money will be fully refunded if you make this known in advance. Do not sneeze towards them
Do not spit out in the forest or defecate carelessly. If you have to, the guides will help you with a matchet to dig a hole to bury your waste.
Any person under 15 years is not allowed to track gorillas.

Semliki National Park

Myuganda

November 10, 2016

Semliki National Park covers an area of 220 square km and is one of Uganda’s newest National Parks having been gazetted in October 1993. The Park occupies a flat smoothly rolling landform ranging from 670 -760 metres above the sea level. As all streams and rivers from the surrounding areas are flooded drain into the Park plus the poor drainage and topography, many areas are flooded during the rainy season. The average annual rainfall is 1250 mm with peaks from March to May and September and December. The temperature varies from 18o C – 30o C with comparatively small day after day variations.
Semliki National Park is an extension of the huge Ituri Forest and formed a fraction of the forest range during the climatic disarray of the Pleistocene. Found about 50km from Fort Portal, Semliki is one of the richest areas in both flora and fauna in Africa with largely birds. The park is in the distant corner of Bundibugyo District, lying crossways to the Uganda-Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) border in the western arm of the East African Rift Valley. The geographical coordinates are 0o 44′- 00 53′ N – 290 57-30o 11′E. To the southeast are the Rwenzori Mountains, to the west is DR Congo and to the north Lake Albert.

Tourist activities at Semliki National Park.
A good number fascinating attractions at Semliki are the unusual panorama, hot springs, the tropical forest walk, bird watching, primate viewing and the twisting river Semliki. Spend three to five days camping and trailing in the real African jungle.

Visit to the hot springs
Know that a tour to Semuliki is rich of the most fabulous and wonderful views. Take a trip and experience the most exciting meandering Bundibugyo road through the Rwenzori escarpments. While in the mountains at ‘Mungu Ni Mukubwa’, the road offers scenic views of the meandering Semuliki River, the fuming Hot springs and the green tropical rain forest lengthening up to Ituri forest in DRC. Two Hot springs in a tract of hot mineral thick swampland, endowed with birds, insects and mammal life easily reached using a modern trail network. Enjoy a view of a two-meter spray of hot water (130oC) and a pool (12 m diameter) of discharging hot water (106oC). Interestingly, you can boil food like eggs in the natural boiler within ten minutes and eat it.

Semliki Nature Walk
Life in the jungle of Semliki is incredible mostly for bird watching, primates, butterfly and plant lovers. Walking through this jungle, you lead to River Semliki meanders, the only one in East Africa. A host of forest mammals like buffaloes, elephants, statungas, leopards, primates, bush pig, Water Chevrotain, White-bellied Duiker or Dwarf Antelope, Beecroft’s Anomalure or Zenker’s Flying Mouse and a wide range of forest and water birds come to your sight while at the park but not common. Pigmy Hippopotamus and Crocodiles are usually seen by chance. The park has 8 species of primates.

There are also timid and largely night-time mammals like the Grey-cheeked Mangabey, Vervet, Red-tailed and Mona, Gentle (Blue) Monkeys, Olive Baboon and Guereza Colobus, De Brazza’s Monkeys are rare and Chimpanzees may rarely be heard than seen. Nocturnal primates include Pottos and Galagos. Squirrels such as Fire-footed Rope or Red-legged Sun Squirrel are also rare. Little collard fruit Bat and Target Rat are also there. There are more than 300 species of butterflies and 46 species of forest Swallowtails and Charaxes (75% of Uganda’s total) and at least 235 species of moths have been classified as restricted. About 305 species of trees have been recorded out of which 125 are restricted to this park alone.

Forest life in Semliki is breathtaking especially for birders, primate, butterfly and plant lovers. The jungle walk usually takes you up to River Semliki meanders, the only one in East Africa with luck; you may well see forest buffaloes and elephants, statungas, leopards, pigmy hippopotamus, crocodile primates and a wide range of forest and water birds.

Semliki Bird Watching
Bird Species at Semliki consist of the Broad-billed Roller, Green Wood-hoopoe, African Grey Hornbill, African Moustached Warbler, rapacious Red-necked Falcon, Black-winged Red-Bishop, White-winged Widowbird and Fawn-breasted Waxbill, Double-toothed Barbet, Yellow-throated Leaflove, Green-backed Eremomela, Piapiac, Black-chinned Quail-Finch, Red-shouldered Cuckoo-shrike and Western Violet-backed sunbird, the list is endless.

Spot Fishing
Equipped with your fishing facilities, you can go sport fishing along the river.
Getting to Semliki.You can use major roads:
From Kampala via Mubende to Fort Portal which is about 180 Km (about 4-5 hrs drive)
Kampala via Masaka to Mbarara, Bushenyi to Kasese is about465 Km (7-8 hrs).
In both routes 4-wheel drives vehicles are the most ideal and faster. While the Kampala-Fort Portal via Mubende is much shorter, the Kampala via Masaka, Mbarara and Kasese gives you chance to Visit Lake Mburo National Park, Kyambura Wildlife Reserve, Rwenzori Mountains National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
From Fort Portal, A two to three hours drive on the rough road towards Bundibugyo will bring you to Sempaya Gate (52 Km). The Park headquarters at Ntandi is 5 Km further from the gate along the same direction.

Accommodation
1. Semliki Safari Lodge: Semliki Safari Lodge: this is a luxury lodge positioned in the Semliki Valley Wildlife Reserve, in the Western Rift Valley. The lodge was built using local materials to correspond with the natural environment. It has Canvas tents permanently thatched each with fixed bathrooms and confidential verandas with a stunning panoramic view, a fully furnished lounge with soft comfortable seats; a well-maintained swimming pool while the restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and all delicious meals.

Tour activities at Semliki Safari Lodge

Chimpanzee Trekking

Guided Walks – there are over 50 kilometres of on foot trails

Game Drives

Boat trips on Lake Albert

Bird watching

Visits to the local Batwa (pygmy) community

Night game drives

Bush dinners or breakfasts

Sundowner barbeques for families

A camp site inside the Park at Bumaga, about 3 km from Sempaya Gate. Here you can spend a night in one of the two Executive bandas, hire a tent or come with your own tent for camping.

The site canteen stocked with both African and European food and drinks but meals are prepared on order. One can also prepare his own food at the site using hired cooking.

Another camp in Sempaya near Sempaya Gate. There shall be small thatched shelters for cooking and eating. Cooking utensils will be for hire, but carry your own tent and food.
You can also use luxurious accommodations including hotels and lodges in Fort Portal before or after the tour to the park.

From Fort Portal, one can drive for 2-3 hours on a 52 Km road towards Bundibugyo to reach Sempaya Gate. The Park headquarters at Ntandi, 5 Km further from the gate along the same route and a vehicle with high clearance is recommended.

SEMLIKI WILDLIFE RESERVE
Previously called the Toro Game Reserve, Semliki Wildlife Reserve is large reserve neighboring Lake Albert and the northern base of the Rwenzoris being a rich mosaic of grassland, savannah, forest and wetland habitats. The animal life is equally diverse, the Uganda kob as the most common large mammal, but there are as well forest elephants, chimpanzees, buffalos, leopards, different monkeys and antelopes. Of the 400 bird species recorded in the reserve, the shoebill stork is on a regular basis seen at close quarters on Lake Albert.

GETTING TO SEMLIKI WILDLIFE RESERVE:
Follow the road towards Semliki National Park for 30km, then take a right turn which after about 35km leads to the lodge.

WHAT TO DO AT SEMLIKI WILDLIFE RESERVE:
One can do Game drives, guided walks plus boat trips on Lake Albert that can be arranged from the lodge.

WHEN TO VISIT:
Whichever time of year.

Uganda Public Holidays

Myuganda

November 10, 2016

Listed here below are Uganda’s Public Holidays from January to December.

January 1 – New Year’s Day.
January 26 – National Resistance Movement (NRM) Liberation Day.
March, 8 – International Women’s Day.
May 1 – Labour Day.
June 3 – Martyrs’ Day.
June 9 – National Heroes’ Day.
October 9 – National Day for Independence.
December 25 – Christmas Day.
December 26 – Boxing Day.

NOTE
There are Muslim days (Ed El Fitir and Ed El Adhuha) for end of the month of Ramadhan and for slaughtering animals respectively are timed and celebrated according to local sightings of various phases of the moon. For Christians Easter Days also changes variably. These are also public days.

Uganda Map

Myuganda

November 9, 2016

Uganda is endowed with 10 National Parks spread in different parts of the country. The country’s tourism success revolves around these parks to a greater deal. These include Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Semliki Valley, Rwenzori Mounatin, Queen Elizabeth, Mgahinga, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Lake Mburo and Kidepo Valley National Park as shown on the map below. These National parks and game reserves are a home to a variety of animals, birds and plant species including the endangered mountain gorillas.

Uganda Attractions

Myuganda

November 9, 2016

Gorilla Trekking

Uganda is well known all over the word as the country with most Mountain Gorillas. In fact Uganda is the best place for Gorilla trekking in Africa and in the entire the world since it has the largest number of gorilla families inBwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. The park is famous worldwide for gorilla trekking. There are other National parks each famous for different game species such as Kibaale National Park , Lake Mburo National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park to mention but a few.

Kampala City This is the capital city of Uganda and the commercial heart of Uganda. Here one experiences the true life of Uganda as people live their daily lives. Ranging from using the numerous boda bodas to beat the traffic jam to visiting exciting places and markets within the city. Below are some of the attractions that are located within the heart of Kampala.

The Bahia temple Baha’i

House of Worship Quiet and serenity reflects the spiritual truths of the Baha’i Faith: The oneness of God, the oneness of humanity and the oneness of religion. Like all Baha’i Houses of Worship, the temple in Uganda is circular in shape, has nine sides and is surrounded by exquisite gardens The building and the gardens form a single, sacred space where all people are invited to pray to God and meditate in an atmosphere of beauty and light. The Baha’i Faith recognizes the value of beauty. The word of God reveled in every age is both beautiful and practical-creating a vision of the renewal of civilization. Louis Bourgeois, architect of the temple, conceived of ornamental tracery as embodying and celebrating light-the light of a new revelation from God reveled through Baha’u’llah. Neither of the East nor of the West, the temple design transcends any specific culture, forming a unique structure where the worlds inhabitants can come and be united in prayer.

The Kasubi Tombs

The Kasubi Tombs are located on Kasubi hill 5km away from Kampala city, Uganda, are a significant site where four Buganda kings and other royal family members are buried. This location holds great spiritual and political importance for the Ganda people and showcases traditional African architecture. It was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001 and praised for its use of natural materials.

The tombs cover about 26 hectares on Kasubi Hill, featuring open agricultural land and a royal palace constructed in 1882. Traditionally, royal tombs were separate, but the Kasubi site houses the tombs of four Buganda kings: Muteesa I, Mwanga II, Daudi Chwa II, and Sir Edward Muteesa II. The main building, Muzibu Azaala Mpanga, is a remarkable circular structure originally built with wooden poles and thatch. In 1938, modern materials like steel and concrete were added during a renovation.

The courtyard is surrounded by traditional structures that serves as the final resting place for royal widows and relatives. The sacred forest within the site, called Kibira, hides the royal tombs from public view. Despite the destruction in 2010, the Buganda Kingdom and the Ugandan government remain committed to preserving this important cultural and historical site.

Unfortunately, in March 2010, a devastating fire destroyed major buildings at the site however the cause of the fire remains unknown and news was spread on the World Heritage Sites.

The fire caused immense sorrow and led to riots during the visit of the Kabaka and President Museveni. Although the tombs’ inner sanctum protected the remains of the kings, the destruction prompted a vow from the Buganda Kingdom to rebuild, with assistance from the national government. The reconstruction began in 2014 with funding from the government of Japan.

The Kasubi Tombs were managed by the Buganda Kingdom until its abolition in 1966, and again after its reinstatement in 1993. They are protected by Ugandan law since 1972, the site is registered in the name of the Kabaka on behalf of the Kingdom. The tombs continue to be a significant spiritual and political center for the Baganda people.

The restoration plan, launched in December 2012 with foreign aid, emphasizes security measures during the reconstruction, limiting access to the tombs. The UNESCO Japanese Funds-in-Trust for the Preservation of the World Cultural Heritage provided support for the reconstruction project, aiming to remove the Kasubi Tombs from the list of World Heritage in Danger and prevent future risks.

The Uganda National Mosque

New York has the Statue of Liberty, Paris has the Eifel Tower, London has the London Eye, India has the Taj Mahal and Kampala has the Gaddafi National Mosque.The Uganda National Mosque, originally named the Gaddafi National Mosque is located 2.5 km from Kampala city center, 47 km from Entebbe airport on Old Kampala Hill, one of the seven prominent hills that define the landscape of Kampala, Uganda’s largest urban center. This mosque, the largest in the East African region and second-largest on the continent, has a rich history that intertwines with the political landscape of Uganda and the generosity of the late Libyan President, Col. Muammar Gaddafi.

History of the Uganda National Mosque

The idea of constructing the mosque was conceived in the 1970s by former Ugandan President Iddi Amin Dada. Amin recognized the absence and need for a significant emblem for the Muslim community, similar to the cathedrals representing the Catholic and Anglican communities on other hills in Kampala. The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council, formed by the government in 1972, lacked a proper headquarters and a symbolic mosque.

The initiative faced setbacks including reluctance from the council despite substantial donations from muslim nations. Amin, frustrated by embezzlement of funds however, ordered the construction of the mosque to commence in 1976. Architect M.A. Karim was tasked to draw up plans, and funding, both indirect and direct, started flowing from Col. Muammar Gaddafi in the 1970s and 2000s, respectively.

Amin’s overthrow in 1979 and a change in the political landscape momentarily hindered the mosque’s construction. However, in 2001, Gaddafi revisited the idea during his visit to Uganda at the invitation of President Museveni. He asked for a chance of having a kampala night tour where he visited places like; Makerere University Hill where he was able to view the tower of the old kampala mosque. This trip was led by Kagimu who re-proposed the idea to Gaddafi, he further arranged between Gaddafi and some Muslim leaders which led to his agreement to fund the construction of a grand mosque at Old Kampala Hill.

Structure of the National Mosque

The mosque was completed in 2006 and became a symbol of religious architectural superiority, seating up to 15,000 worshippers in the main mosque and accommodating a total of 200,000. It has a two-storied structure with large domes covered in brown mosaic, a minaret, where one can view the city. After Gaddafi’s death, its name was changed to the ‘National Mosque’ to ensure maintenance funding continuity from Libya. Eventually, in 2013, it was renamed the ‘Uganda National Mosque.’

Visiting the Uganda National Mosque

The mosque currently serves as the headquarters of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council, overseeing Islamic affairs in Uganda. Visitors can explore the mosque, situated just 2 kilometers from Kampala city center, during city tours. Modest dress is required, and coverings are provided for those in need. The mosque’s interior reveals intricate Islamic embroidery, architectural wonders, and a sense of awe that pays tribute to a higher power.

Visitors are encouraged to climb the minaret for a unique perspective, leaving their footwear at the entrance as a sign of respect. The mosque is open on special occasions like weddings and Eid days, while its offices on the ground floor are accessible at all times. The Gaddafi National Mosque stands as a religious site and a testament to the cultural, historical, and architectural of Uganda.

The Uganda Martyrs Shrine

This Uganda Martyrs Minor Basilica/Shrine is a Catholic church dedicated to the Martyrs of Uganda who shed their blood because of the Christian faith. The Shrine is well known for its beautiful and unique interior and exterior, but it is specially notable for its shape and architectural plan: the 22 copper pillars-over 100 feet long that support the shrine built in form of an African hut and its wooden doors that depict the history of the Martyrs. The Shrine has a capacity 1000 seats arranged in a circular form. The construction of the Uganda Martyrs’ Shrine began in 1967. It was completed and formally opened by the special Papal envoy, His Eminence Sergio Cardinal Pignedoli on 3rd June 1975.

The Uganda Museum

This museum portrays pre- colonial African History and of the historical items displayed includes the Nakayima tree, Ntusi, Bigo bya Mugyenyi, as well as collection of traditional musical instruments, which one is free to play plus other aspects of Ugandan history which are a good reminder of the country’s colourful past. The Uganda Society’s library is also housed in one rooms of the Uganda National Museum and the collection is comprised of approximately 3,000 volumes, maps, periodicals and photographs, all portraying African history, culture, sociology, travel and science. In addition to the already existing library, it also houses the books of East African wild life Society. Note that the books are currently available for reference only.

White Water Rafting

Uganda is the source of the longest river in the world – river Nile. This river has been a mystery from the time it was discovered by the first explorers – Grant and Speke way back in the 18th century. Adrift Uganda has been carrying out safe water rafting adventure trips for the last 28 years. It is worth the experience.

Lake Victoria

With the all the hustle and dust in the city, lake Victoria, which is the largest fresh water body in Africa offers Ugandans and all visitors to Uganda a place to unwind and relax. The beaches are developed with good service and have enough sand for games, chilling and large enough to offer quiet time for meditation and soul searching.