Are you planning a Uganda safari? Some of the activities you might want to include on your itinerary are gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, wildlife safari, birding tour, and cultural tours. However, please note that there is so much more to experience in Uganda, and whatever your interests it is important that you plan well and have enough facts for a great Uganda experience.
Uganda borders Tanzania and Rwanda to the south, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to the west, South Sudan to the north, and Kenya to the east.
Uganda lies across the Equator at the shores of Lake Victoria – the largest lake in Africa and the second-largest freshwater body in the world. The Ssese Islands and other small islands in Lake Victoria lie within Uganda’s borders giving one an African beach holiday experience away from the bustle of the cities. The snow-capped Rwenzori mountains are a unique feature giving one the experience of ‘snow at the Equator’ if they are resilient enough to hike towards the Margherita peak.
Uganda is a small country almost the size of the United Kingdom or the state of Oregon in the US, with a land surface of 236,040 square kilometers making it possible for one to visit numerous attractions when on their vacation. One can choose to combine different activities in one-holiday safari of say two weeks – one will visit some savannah national parks for birding tours and wildlife safaris, visit the forested national parks for primates; gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking and golden monkey trekking.
Uganda’s climate allows you to visit any time of the year. Uganda is a tropical country and much of it lies on the African plateau between 900-1,500 meters above sea level. This gives Uganda a pleasant tropical climate, with temperatures averaging between 21 and 28 degrees Celsius during the day and between 12 and 18 degrees Celsius at night making it great for your gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and birding tour throughout the year.
The hottest months are from December to February, with 28 to 30 degrees Celsius. The rainy seasons are from April to May and October to November, it can rain for a short while in Uganda before the sun comes out so do not hesitate to visit for your gorilla safari, wildlife safari, or birding safari even during the ‘rainy’ months. For those wanting to hike in the Rwenzori, the periods of December to February are advised, or June to August. The Karamoja region which is home to the Pian UPe game reserve, Bokora-Matheniko game reserve, and Kidepo valley national park has one rainy season which runs from May-Sept. Please note that because of climate change over the years; sometimes the seasons have been disrupted with some ‘dry months’ having more unusual rains and ‘rain seasons’ having more sun.
Uganda has a multitude of cultural tourism sites and events reflecting the diversity of over 40 tribes. The country has many chiefdoms and kingdoms with a rich history. They currently have no political powers but have cultural influence, with some being more active than others. The country’s most ancient inhabitants are confined in the hilly southwest region – they are the formerly hunter-gatherers known as the Batwa.
The earlier inhabitants left behind a rich legacy of rock paintings, such as those at the Nyero Rock Shelter near Kumi. The current Kingdoms are the Bantu kingdoms of Buganda, Bunyoro, Busoga, and Tooro. According to tradition, these centuries-old kingdoms arose from the medieval kingdoms of Batembuzi and Bacwezi.
Kampala is the capital city of Uganda located about 40 Kilometers from Entebbe International Airport where most tourists arrive. Kampala is a modern cosmopolitan city, which reflects the ongoing economic growth and political stability that has characterized Uganda for more than 3 decades. Kampala is famous for its active nightlife and vibrant people, diversity of cultures, and culinary variety.
Uganda has a reputation as ‘Africa’s friendliest Country’, with a tradition of hospitality and a remarkably low level of crime and hassle directed at tourists. You are however encouraged to be cautious just like in any other destination. Experience Ugandan’s warmness of heart, the amazing cuisine with a constant supply of organic fresh vegetables and fruits and learn about the rich cultural heritage.
At Kagera Safaris we arrange your African holiday safari to Uganda according to your interests; Gorilla trekking, Chimpanzee trekking, wildlife safaris, Birding safaris, Culture and community tours, Photography safaris, horseback safaris, Mountain Hiking, golf safaris, etc. Do you prefer a ’calm’ safari or an adventurous safari? Whatever it is, you will find it here!
