As it is every traveler’s question “How safe is Uganda”? What are the safest places for a Uganda Road trip? Uganda is one of the safest countries to visit worldwide at any time of the Year. Like any other country, Uganda faces some security instabilities but the government hs and it is doing a great job of ensuring that the country is safe at large. Uganda is remarkably a preferred destination thanks to its endowments. Every region in Uganda has something unique for visitors to explore and experience. But what leaves many always asking is; which is the safest place to visit?

Top 6 Safest Places to Visit in Uganda

Kampala

Bahai Temple

Kampala is not only a commercial hub in Uganda, but also the safest place to start or end your Uganda safari holiday. Kampala is the capital city of Uganda and comes with several tourist sites worth exploring. These are excellently explored on a city tour and include the Gaddafi National Mosque, Kasubi tomb site, Namugongo Martyrs Shrines, Craft markets, Uganda Museum, Kabaka’s Palace, Baha’i temple, Rubaga cathedral, Buganda heritage, Namirembe Cathedral, Kabala Lake, Ndere cultural center and more.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Located in Western Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is a favorite location for watching the tree-climbing lions. This is Uganda’s 2^nd largest park spanning over 1978sq.km and was gazetted in 1952.

Tree Climbing Lion – Queen Elizabeth National Park

Within Queen Elizabeth National Park, there are over 620 species of birds to be identified, 95 mammal species, and others. The different faunal species to locate on Uganda wildlife tour in Queen Elizabeth Park include spotted hyenas, lions, Nile crocodiles, hippos, waterbucks, hippos, topis, elephants, warthogs, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, Leopards, and more.

The interesting birds to find on a birding tour in this vast savanna park include the martial eagle, grey crowned herons, saddle-billed storks, handsome francolins, swamp flycatchers, palm-nut vultures, shoebill, collared prancticles, and others.

Bwindi National Park

Baby Mountain Gorilla – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Situated in Southwestern Uganda, Bwindi is one of the safest destinations that you should consider a must-visit for gorilla trekking. This park was officially gazetted as part of Uganda parks in 1991 and covers a compact area of 331sq.km. Within Bwindi NP is a lush impenetrable forest, a major habitat to a diversity of species including the giant forest hogs, elephants, mountain gorillas, golden cats, clawless otters, black-fronted duikers, side-striped jackals, buffaloes, and;

Birds such as handsome francolins, black-billed turacos, Shelley’s crimson wings, Fraser’s eagles, Grauer’s broadbill, purple-breasted sunbirds, white-bellied robin chats, Chapin’s flycatchers, and more.

What not to miss while in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park; gorilla trekking in Buhoma, Rushaga, Nkuringo and Ruhija; birding, nature walks, gorilla habituation experience, visit the Batwa community, and Mountain hiking/hiking.

Murchison Falls National Park

Boat Cruise At The Bottom Of Murchison Falls

Visit Uganda’s largest park –Murchison Falls National Park, home to the world’s most powerful falls –Murchison Falls. This park is found in Northwestern Uganda, extending over 3840sq.km, and holds huge concentrations of lions, buffaloes, elephants, leopards, giraffes, bushbucks, hartebeest, warthogs, oribis, and hyenas, etc.

Over 451 species of birds can also be identified in the various habitats of Murchison Falls NP. They include the giant heron, grey crown craned, Abyssinian hornbill, giant kingfisher, shoebill stork and more.

Kibale National Park

Chimpanzee Tracking – Kibale Forest National Park

If you enjoy primate watching, then there is one place that can blow your mind away and that is Kibale National Park. 13 primate species survive in Kibale Forest including the Uganda mangabeys, L’hoest monkeys, galagos, mantled guereza, olive baboons, vervet monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, 1500 chimpanzees, pottos, and bush babies. Kibale also protects animals such as bushbucks, blue and red duikers, forest hogs, bush pigs, sitatungas, and more.

Birds -375 species of birds exist in the scenic Kibale National Park. These include blue-breasted kingfishers, black bee-eaters, African pitta, Abyssinian ground thrush, white-napped pigeons, mourning-collared doves, lemon doves and others.

While in Kibale, the interesting experiences to consider a must-enjoy include chimpanzee tracking, forest walk, chimp habituation experience, bird watching, visiting Bigodi for a guided walk and also experiencing more about the unique cultures.

Jinja

White Water Rafting On The Nile River

In Eastern Uganda, a visit to Jinja is a must-do. Jinja offers all kinds of adventures and other experiences. Known as the adventure capital of East Africa, it is in Jinja where you can experience the most of white water rafting on the Nile River, bungee jumping, kayaking, jet boating, tubing, or go horseback riding, quad biking, or sunset boat cruise.

In conclusion, Uganda has many tourist sites or places and they are all safe year-round for holidaymakers to spend their vacation. With the above, you can have wilderness experiences with your favorite wildlife, and primates and also combine adrenaline adventures either guided or you can choose to hire a car and self drive in Uganda.

They say that life is all about the little things. When is the last time you took a little time off? I don’t mean time off like a day or week of leave from work;

I mean just a little time off your schedule or your daily routine.

Having the same exact routine is just as boring & draining as having a fixed diet. And I refer to the most important meal of the day, which is breakfast. Wouldn’t you want your next breakfast to be an experience different from the ordinary? Our taste buds too are entitled to traveling and touring just as much as our minds & bodies are refreshed by a safari or a road trip out of town.

There is a place in Kampala where you can feed your mind, body and soul while taking them for a brief holiday in a single serving. Using nothing more than words, allow me to take you there. Come and treat your soul and arouse your senses to a delightful blend of freshly baked pastry aromas while you discover a whole new range of authentic rich tastes against a distant musical backdrop of Kampala’s bustling traffic. Have you had a long day at work? Was your week hectic? All that could be changed by a cold pint over some hot wings, spare goat ribs, or pork chops while you review your report or make plans for the night or the week ahead.

Perhaps you would like to just wash down a hot espresso with a thick slice of black forest or a croissant as you tear it apart and dig into the day’s newspaper. Maybe you need to meet that prospection neutral ground, be it a business or personal meeting –then La Patisserie is here to meet you halfway there. I mean, where else in this restless crowded city of Kampala can you get the opportunity to design your own sandwich and customize it from the bread right down to the dressing being sure that not a single speck of dust found its way into your recipe? With our mouth-wateringly wide array of both local and imported cheese options to choose from, various premium meats like turkey, chicken &ham, not forgetting a decent selection of salads & vegetables for the vegans, we are truly sandwich heaven. Don’t wonder why our fries, burgers, gelatos, and mochas are famous & distinct, it is because we source quality organic local produce right from the coffee beans to the eggs, milk, and wheat that we use in our bakery.

So be sure that you will taste something authentic every time you make a selection on our menu. What are you waiting for? Listen to your heart. Pick up your phone and follow up that lead! Call up that date or that prospect, spoil your family or your friends, or just give yourself that little much-needed time off and a break away from the usual diet, the work routine, and the already crowded cafe scene, La Patisserie is the place to be. Trust me, a mini holiday awaits you and your taste buds. See you there!

If you are adrenalin junkies, a road trip along the meandering roads of the Kapchorwa region presents a shaky but total fun-roller-coaster-like ride. The hilly landscapes mean that the roads wind around with steep edges that leave one feeling like they riding on a roller coaster.

One minute you’ll be as high as 30 ft. above sea level upon the peaks of the hills, the next minute you’ll be flying down the foot of the hills only to be slapped hard in the face by awkwardly sharp corners that will stir in you motions from ranging from excitement to terror.

Every minute spent in the drive will feel like your last minute alive. The further you progress into the heart of the mountainous region, the more you will curse why you didn’t leave a written WILL before embarking on the journey.

The fright won’t get any worse as cars of various sizes appear to disappear to either end of the narrow roads. Watching them draw closer, you might think they are on an unstoppable mission to knock you off into the deepest valleys below. Nothing feels as exciting as knowing you have made it.

Renting a car in Uganda for the first time can be an exciting and challenging experience. It can be fun to drive a vehicle, especially when you’re on a Uganda road trip. There are also legalities to understand. When you’re renting a car, there are many factors to consider first: Your budget, where you’re going, how long you’ll need it, and what documentation you’ll need to bring with you.

Cheap Uganda Self Drive known as a local Car Rental company being established in 2018.  Its major aim of establishment is to offer self-drive Safaris and Car Rentals to independent Travelers interested in visiting Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania. Exploring Africa on your own is one of the most dreams everyone would wish to achieve.

Cheap Uganda Self Drive has a complete and wide range of car rental, ranging from 4×4 hire, and Roof top car rental, chauffeur and transfer services across East Africa for Self-drive Travelers and Independent Traveler. We also offer wedding transportation, and airport transfers.

In case you need a car with rooftop tent accommodation and camping gears that you can use to enjoy the Unique, experiential, exclusive, opulent journeys & much more please you are at the sources, just make an inquiry we shall provide!

Renting a car in Uganda is convenient. Self-drive safari gives one freedom to explore on his/her own and as well driving on one’s pace at a time. However, there are various factors you should first consider before renting a car. Requirements and fees may vary depending on the car rental company. You should also decide on the type, class and size of the vehicle, as this may also affect the cost of your car rental.

So below are some important facts you need to know before renting a car in Uganda.

Minimum age requirement

Many rental car companies in Uganda have minimum age requirements for their vehicles. Typically, you must be at least 18-years-old. That said, drivers as young as 18 may be allowed depending on state laws.

Documentary requirements

You need to present certain documents like a valid driver’s license and an active credit/debit card or check for payment. Some rental companies may also require a good driving record.

Rental rates vary

With car rental, there are varying factors affecting the cost of a car rental. These include the type, class and size of the vehicle, age of the renter, length of the rental, choice of car renting company and location.

Car insurance coverage

When you rent a car in Uganda, you must consider the implications of theft or an accident while in your possession. Car insurance coverage protects you from unexpected expenses, but you should know if your policy covers rentals and its limitations. If it doesn’t cover rental cars, the rental company has options you can purchase for that case.

How Does the Car Rental Process Work?

The car rental process is fairly easy. You book the type of car you need, provide your documentation and pay. But, there are other considerations you should know and steps you may need to complete.

For example, you must have a valid driver’s license. Rental companies typically have a minimum age requirement of 18. It’s a good idea to understand rental cost calculations, how pick-ups and returns, how long it takes to rent a car and the different types of insurance suitable for rental cars.

How Much Does Renting a Car Cost?

Various factors affect the rental cost, including the driver’s age, length of rental, location and type of car. There may also be hidden fees and additional charges, such as airport charges and cancellation fees.

Current events may also have an impact on prices. For instance, rates have recently hit an all-time high. The pandemic highly affected the travel industry, and with the shortage in 2021, the availability of rental cars was also affected. Prices rose because the supply couldn’t keep up with the growing demand.

The best way to really know the nomads is by spending a day with them as they go about their day-to-day life. A visit to their Manyatta homesteads will not only unveil to you their best-kept secrets but also unveil to you magnificent huts.

The outskirts of Moroto have so many of these. They have been preserved so well and still look as they used to in pre-historic times. They are carefully fenced off by a mix of thorn plants that are about a meter thick and head high. This barrier is purposed to bar cattle raiders from invading their cattle. The traditional huts are also known as ‘ere’ are incredibly beautiful and stay cool in the year-round heat. At the heart of these eco-friendly huts is a large kraal where the cattle are kept.

Murchison Falls National Park, situated in Uganda, is an awe-inspiring destination renowned for its abundant wildlife and captivating natural beauty. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a nature lover, Murchison Falls offers an array of unforgettable experiences.

In this article, we will explore the top 10 things to do in Murchison Falls National Park, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this remarkable African gem.

Witness the Mighty Murchison Falls

Prepare to be mesmerized by the remarkable sight of the Nile River forcefully cascading through a narrow 7-meter-wide gorge, creating the iconic Murchison Falls. Take a boat ride to the base of the falls, where you can feel the sheer power and majesty of nature up close.

Embark on a Thrilling Game Drive

Set off on an exhilarating safari game drive through Murchison Falls’ diverse landscapes, including sweeping savannahs, lush woodlands, and picturesque riverbanks. Encounter a rich array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and an assortment of antelope species.

Enjoy a Scenic Nile River Cruise

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Nile River with a leisurely boat cruise. Delights in the abundant wildlife that thrives along the riverbanks, such as hippos, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species. Keep an eye out for the elusive shoebill stork, a rare and remarkable avian creature.

Visit the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

En route to Murchison Falls, take a detour to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a haven for the endangered white rhinoceros. Embark on a guided walk to observe these magnificent creatures up close, contributing to their conservation efforts while gaining insight into the significance of rhino conservation in Uganda.

Hike to the Top of the Falls

Embark on an invigorating guided hike to the summit of Murchison Falls. As you ascend, relish the stunning panoramic views of the Nile River and the surrounding landscapes. This experience presents excellent opportunities for photography and allows you to appreciate the raw natural beauty of the area.

Explore the Pristine Budongo Forest

Venture into Budongo Forest, an integral part of Murchison Falls National Park, famed for its thriving population of chimpanzees. Embark on a guided chimpanzee trekking experience, where you’ll have the opportunity to observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat, along with other fascinating forest inhabitants.

Discover the Enchanting Paraa Delta

Embark on a scenic boat ride through the Paraa Delta, a captivating area where the Nile River converges with Lake Albert. Traverse through lush vegetation, encounter diverse birdlife, and keep an eye out for wildlife sightings. The delta offers a serene and picturesque setting for nature enthusiasts.

Birdwatching Extravaganza

For bird lovers, Murchison Falls National Park is a paradise teeming with over 450 bird species. Keep your binoculars at hand and marvel at the colorful array of avian life, including the rare and elusive shoebill stork, which can be spotted in the park’s wetland areas.

Relaxation at the Nile Delta

Indulge in moments of pure tranquility at the Nile Delta, where the Victoria Nile merges with Lake Albert. Unwind amidst the serene atmosphere, bask in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes, and witness breathtaking sunsets over the water. It’s an ideal spot for rejuvenation and reflection.

Engage in Authentic Cultural Encounters

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the local communities surrounding Murchison Falls. Engage in cultural interactions, learn about traditional customs, and visit nearby villages to experience the vibrant local way of life firsthand. These encounters add a unique dimension to your Murchison Falls adventure.

For anyone seeking a more relaxed and flexible holiday in Murchison falls national park, hiring a car for self-drive is a recommended option. You can hire a car in Entebbe or Kampala at market-friendly rates.

Murchison Falls National Park offers an extraordinary blend of wildlife encounters, captivating natural wonders, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re marveling at the thunderous falls, embarking on thrilling game drives, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Murchison Falls will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on your safari experience.

Remember to plan your trip thoughtfully, seek the guidance of experienced guides and park authorities, and embrace the beauty and diversity that awaits you in this remarkable Ugandan wilderness.

Many people have known Uganda due to the reign of Idi Amin. But besides this dark past, many people have also come to know Uganda for its stunning natural beauty, including several magnificent waterfalls. The country is simply gifted by nature.  Here are some notable waterfalls in Uganda:

Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls, located within Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda, is a breathtaking natural wonder that showcases the immense power and beauty of the Nile River. As the Nile makes its way through a narrow gorge, it creates a spectacular waterfall, plunging down with incredible force and forming Murchison Falls.

The thunderous roar of the cascading water, combined with the mist that fills the air, creates an awe-inspiring sight that leaves visitors in awe. The surrounding landscape, characterized by rugged cliffs and abundant wildlife, adds to the allure of Murchison Falls, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Sipi Falls

Sipi Falls is a captivating series of waterfalls nestled in the foothills of Mount Elgon in eastern Uganda. This natural wonder comprises three stunning waterfalls, each with its own unique charm and character. As water cascades down the rugged cliffs, surrounded by lush greenery and fertile farmlands, Sipi Falls creates a picturesque scene that is nothing short of mesmerizing.

The tallest of the three falls, known as the Main Sipi Falls, drops from a considerable height, creating a majestic spectacle. Visitors to Sipi Falls can indulge in activities like hiking, trekking, and birdwatching while immersing themselves in the tranquil beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Sipi Falls is truly a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a serene and enchanting experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Ssezibwa Falls

Ssezibwa Falls is a spiritual and cultural site located about 32 kilometers east of Kampala. The falls are formed by the Ssezibwa River and are surrounded by lush forests and scenic landscapes. The local Baganda people consider the falls sacred and believe in their healing powers.

Aruu Falls

Aruu Falls is a captivating waterfall located in the northern part of Uganda, near the town of Pader. It is nestled within the scenic landscapes of the Acholi region, surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills.

Aruu Falls is known for its impressive cascade as the water plunges down a series of rocky steps, creating a mesmerizing display of power and beauty. The falls provide a tranquil atmosphere, offering visitors a chance to unwind and connect with nature.

With its natural splendor and peaceful surroundings, Aruu Falls is a hidden gem that promises a refreshing and serene experience for those who venture to explore it.

Itanda Falls

Itanda Falls, also known as the “Staircase of the Nile,” is an impressive waterfall located on the Nile River near Jinja, Uganda. As the river rushes through a series of rocky steps and rapids, it forms Itanda Falls, creating a breathtaking display of power and natural beauty.

The cascading water creates a dramatic scene, surrounded by lush vegetation and towering cliffs. Itanda Falls has gained popularity among adrenaline seekers as a premier whitewater rafting and kayaking destination, offering thrilling and challenging rapids. Beyond its adventure sports appeal, Itanda Falls is also a picturesque spot where visitors can appreciate the raw force of nature and soak in the stunning surroundings.

Busowoko Waterfalls

Busowoko waterfalls are also located near Jinja. These waterfalls are popularly known for white water rafting. Before reaching Itanda Falls during your white water rafting in Jinja, you will have to first cross Busowoko waterfalls.

These waterfalls are also a ritual site for the Busoga Kingdom. A number of cultural or traditional ordination, as well as initiation ceremonies, are carried out from this place. It is one of the most stunning waterfalls in Eastern Uganda.

Sisiyi Water Falls

Sisiyi Waterfalls is found in Bulambuli eastern Uganda. Located on the slopes of Mountain Elgon, the waterfalls offer a great opportunity for hiking as well as picnicking. There is a lodge and campsite near the waterfalls making it very possible to spend a few days simply relaxing around the waterfalls.

However, the road that is connected to Sisiyi Falls is not well paved. It is for this reason that most people still prefer visiting Sipi Falls instead of Sisiyi Waterfalls.

Bulambuli Waterfalls

There are four major waterfalls found in Bulambuli, These include; the Gibanyi waterfalls, Golobetei waterfalls, Nakifumbuko waterfalls, and Gibuzare waterfalls.

Gibuzare Waterfalls

Gibuzare waterfalls are the most stunning of these four Bulambuli waterfalls. It is commonly mistaken for Sipi Falls. There is a trail to these waterfalls; you ought to pass through people’s gardens to get to the bottom of the waterfalls but the experience is worthwhile. 

Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru Falls

Located near Fort Portal in western Uganda, is a captivating waterfall that holds cultural and mythological significance. Translated as “Breasts of Nyina Mwiru” in the local language, the falls are surrounded by a cave system with stalactite formations resembling hanging breasts.

According to local folklore, these formations are believed to be the breasts of Nyina Mwiru, a legendary princess who faced various trials and transformed into stone, giving birth to the cascading water. The falls and the caves are considered cultural and historical sites, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and traditional tales.

Visitors can explore the caves, marvel at the unique geological formations, and learn about the rich cultural heritage and legends associated with Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru Falls.

Karuma Falls

Karuma Falls is a majestic waterfall located along the Nile River in Uganda, approximately 225 kilometers north of Kampala. The falls are a remarkable natural spectacle as the mighty Nile River cascades through a series of rapids and plunges down the rocky terrain, creating a breathtaking display of power and beauty.

The thunderous sound of the water, combined with the mist that fills the air, adds to the dramatic atmosphere of Karuma Falls. The surrounding landscape is characterized by towering cliffs and lush greenery, offering a picturesque backdrop to this natural wonder.

Karuma Falls is not only a visual treat but also an important hydroelectric power generation site, contributing to Uganda’s energy needs. Whether admired from a distance or experienced up close, Karuma Falls leaves visitors awe-struck with its sheer grandeur and the raw force of nature on display

A memorial site – Bishop James Hannington Memorial Site – has been constructed at Kyando in Mayuge District. October 29, annually is a pilgrim day when Christians in Busoga Diocese make pilgrimage to Kyando village to commemorate the day when Bishop Hannington was murdered while preaching the gospel of salvation.

Located in Eastern Uganda some 20kms from Mayuge District main town and 30km from Jinja Town, Bishop James Hannington Memorial Site, is the spot of the first and largest Christian martyrdom in Uganda. This is because it is the place where one of the first missionaries to have visited Uganda from Britain was killed, in cold blood.

Your ride will be a bumpy one due to the nature of the road – bumpy and dusty. Along the way, you can be intercepted by trucks loading sugarcane parked in the middle of the road but all this is worth it when you get to the memorial site.

The story is told in bits and pieces by the locals some of whom visited the site after it took shape in 2012. Though fast-growing into a big tourism site, there are no tour guides and all one can depend on are the passers-by and locals who have acquired the story from elders.

But this is no problem at all as the site has signposts most of which explain the significance of the spots on which they are erected.

Most of the locals recall the story behind the Bishop’s death with empathy. “He was killed with so much brutality yet he was innocent, poor man,” Musa, a boda boda rider in Mayuge Town recounts

Just like the biblical Herod and Jesus’ birth story, Bishop Hannington’s death, it is said, was prompted by longtime suspicion and prophesies that KabakaMwanga’s rule would be overthrown by people coming from the east.

So, when the Bishop together with his group of 48 helpers, entered Busoga in current Mayuge, a territory that was under Chief Lube, one of KabakaMwanga’s collaborators, a message was sent to Mwanga who out of panic immediately ordered for the elimination of the invading strangers.KabakaMwanga’s fear was that Christianity was growing fast among his subjects and this, to him, became an increasingly great threat to his rule.

Today, a stone to mark and commemorate the point at which bishop Hannington was murdered still stands. It is sheltered in an iron-sheet hut-shaped shelter which is located downhill, at the end of the road that leads to the rocky Kyando hill where the bishop did most of his activities in the rocks before his death.

The Memorial Site

At this place, you will be able to relive the life that Bishop Hannington and his men lived many years ago through the various marked spots and rocks that are said to have been very significant to the bishop.

The centerpiece, which is an enclosed stone – found downhill – marks the spot or shrine where the bishop was tortured and killed, the site is composed of other spots that mark the different activities the bishop was involved in. On the rocks on Kyando hill is a cave that is believed to have been the bishop’s bedroom. The path that leads to that cave has been marked with a tree fence making it easy for tourists to find it.

Across from the bedroom is a painted rock which is believed to have been the spot where the bishop used to preach from. Another important cave is under a rock that stands opposite the ‘pulpit’ and that is the library. It is believed that is where the bishop during his time-off pastoral work, did some reading.

“Away from here is another cave where the bishop waited eight days in custody before he was killed by spearing him in both sides,” Musa narrates.

Just close to the shrine, is a well now modified into a spring, from which Bishop Hannington used to drink. It has been reconstructed to preserve it for generations to come. As a visitor to the site, you will probably be intrigued to drink from the same well that Bishop Hannington drunk from more than 130 years ago.

For those driven by the love to discover the beauty of nature, the rocky Kyandohill is the place for you. The magnificent view that you get of Busoga’s green belt while at the hill is proof that your visit despite the hurdles was not in vain. It is not only a leisure place but also one where people get spiritual renewal thanks to Bishop Hannington memorial site.

And judging from the way Christianity has taken root in Busoga, Uganda over the years, the bishop indeed purchased its road to Uganda with his blood.

The rock under which Bishop Hannington spent his free time reading thus named his library

Bishop Hannington’s well now modified into a spring

Travel and explore the best safari destinations on the African continent under the guidance of Rwenzori Expeditions. The continent is home to over 55 countries scattered in different sub-regions – East, west, North, and Southern parts. Among these regions include the East African region which includes; Uganda – the pearl of Africa, the magical Kenya, and the mighty Republic of Tanzania. While looking for a suitable destination for the safari, Uganda is ready to welcome you with a smiling face.

Stretching over an area of approximately 241,038 square kilometers, Uganda is home to various attractions including the African third highest mountain – Rwenzori, and other wildlife and primate destinations. For a splendid and amazing adventure, a combined Rwenzori climbing and big game safari is designed for you so as to ease your movements, and plans and also gain enough knowledge about the destinations.

Rwenzori hiking experience

In this combined trip, you will hike up to the summit of the Rwenzori Mountains for about 6 to 9 days where you will enjoy the beautiful view and several features like waterfalls, lakes, rivers, rocks, and the rare vegetation zone of the mountains. Protected by Rwenzori mountains national park, the mountains stand as the first-highest mountain in Uganda and the third-highest African mountain after Kilimanjaro of Tanzania and Mount Kenya.

The Rwenzori Mountains are a range of mountains located in eastern equatorial Africa on the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The highest peak of the mountains – Margherita on Mount Stanley, one of the 6 massifs of the mountain reaches a height of approximately 5,109 meters and it’s known for being permanently snow-capped and glaciated. For one to reach to this highest summit he/she has to climb through different massifs and among these includes; Mount Speke at 4,890 meters, Mount Baker at 4,843 meters, Mount Emin at 4,798 meters, Mount Gessi at 4,715 meters and Mount Luigi di Savoia at 4,627 meters.

For a perfect and safe hike to the mountain summit, there are two routes to use including the Kilembe route which is governed by the private organization, and the Central Circuit Route which is governed by the locals. All these routes can perfectly help you reach Margherita though with different features on the way and at different costs.

Big 5 Africa watching

From the mountains, you will proceed to other wildlife national parks where you will watch the five big African animals during different park activities like game drives.

Africa big five is a term coined in the 1800s by hunters, referring to the most challenging and dangerous animals to hunt on foot. Among the animals, they categorized include the African elephant, Lion, Leopard, African buffalo, and Rhinoceros. These big five African animals are present in Uganda and can be easily seen in the different wildlife and savanna national parks during the park activities like;

A guided game drive in the national parks of Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Kidepo Valley, and Lake Mburo will be the best way to watch four of the five animals – Lions, African elephants, Leopards, and African buffaloes.

A boat cruise on the Nile in Murchison Falls and on the Kazinga channel is a great way to spot the four of the five African big five in Uganda. These will be around the water body shores, especially in the dry season with the aim of quenching their thirst.

The Rhinoceros can only be seen in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary on your way to Murchison falls national park and at Entebbe UWEC Zoo.

The combined safari trip of Rwenzori hikes and the big five African animals will lead you to Uganda destinations like Rwenzori mountains national park, Queen Elizabeth national park, Murchison falls national park, Kidepo valley national park, or Lake Mburo national park for about 10 to 13 days.