Africa is known for its wildlife safaris, breathtaking animal sightings and unique culture, and the Ugandan and Rwandan National Parks blend in all of these elements making the trip to Africa worth it. Uganda and Rwanda are side-by-side countries located in the heart of Africa. Their unique placement right on the equator ensures great ecological opportunities and year-round nice weather. These memorable national parks are all within a few hours drive of each other and will make your time spent in these countries unforgettable as you walk side-by-side with gorillas and explore the dense forests.
National Parks in Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Uganda is home to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest that provides a once-in-a-lifetime hiking experience through their lush forests with native gorilla species. The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest got its name for the thick bamboo spread throughout the grounds of the forest that makes it “impenetrable.” Unlike a normal zoo, the tours are interactive and the guests are able to observe these friendly gorillas up close. The Bwindi Forest is home to over 400 mountain gorillas and types of birds. Travelers set out on guided tours daily to observe all that this abundant forest has to offer. Travelers are safe and protected as they freely explore the diverse wildlife found throughout the forest. A gorilla permit is offered with the African journey here.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
While Bwindi National Park is known for the sensational gorillas, Queen Elizabeth National Park (located four short hours away) is known for the lions. Originally named Kazinga Natl Park, a new name was acquired after a famous visit by Queen Elizabeth herself! The wildlife seen throughout the park is diverse (think the Lion King but in real life) with exotic animals such as lions, elephants, and buffalo. Some of the lion are even known to climb trees! Queen Elizabeth Park also includes two lakes and the Kazinga channel where guests can attend exciting boat tours to see the underwater wildlife. While on the protected boat tour, guests can catch a glimpse of the hippos and alligators that lurk under the water making them the hidden gems of the park.
Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park is one of the most-visited spots in Africa because of the enormous waterfall coming from the Victoria Nile River. Travelers often get up close to this natural beauty by an easy 45 minute hike to the top. If you want to see the waterfall from the bottom, there is a boat safari that will go right by it and if you have time, it is encouraged that you see it from both viewing points. Murchison Falls has four of the “big five” African mammals: lions, leopards, elephants and buffalo. Another popular activity is chimpanzee trekking! A park ranger accompanies the explorers through the jungle to see the various species of chimpanzees, if you’re an animal lover, you won’t want to miss this exciting opportunity.
National Parks in Rwanda
Akagera National Park
The beauty of Akagera National Park located in Rwanda includes not only the numerous species of animals inhabiting the savanna and wetland areas but the history behind this stunning national park. Akagera suffered devastating impacts from a civil war 20 years ago when the lions and rhinos were hunted and the biodiversity was almost destroyed. Since then, Akagera rebuilt itself to become a sanctuary for many different types of animals including the endangered rhinoceros.This wildlife safe haven is a must-see if you’re in the area. The park ranks #1 for biggest, protected wetland in Eastern-Central Africa and includes hundreds of species of birds, mammals and fish. Akagera is a hot spot for educational field trips so don’t be surprised to run into school children with their class while you’re there!
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park (known by the natives as Parc Nationals de Volans) contains not one, but five extinct volcanoes that are open to the public for exploring. The famous American zoologist Dian Fossey had a base camp set up between two of the volcanoes in the park and that same Karisoke research base can be visited today. Fossey was buried at the research center next to her favorite gorilla Digit. Her work lives on today as she started an anti-poaching campaign in the National Park to protect the gorillas. Volcanoes National Park has incredible animal watching, hiking, animal tracking and unmatched bird calls. It’s easy to become a friend to the animals in this park with all of the gorillas, elephants and golden monkeys that inhabit this magnificent park.
Nyungwe National Park
If you’re looking for a bird paradise then Nyungwe National Park is for you! There are over 300 species of birds and 29 species of plants that make the eco-tourism here thrive. In this park, there is a diverse array of activities that can be catered to all age groups. If you’re looking for a view, Canopy walkway is a high suspension bridge where tourists can overlook the valley and monkeys jumping in the treetops. There are also more than 15 hiking trails that visitors can explore if they are looking to be active in the outdoors. Nyungwe is exceptional with its rolling hills of tea plantations around the national park. This park is not to be missed and will be the highlight of your time in Africa.
Uganda and Rwanda together possess over 13 National Parks but these special parks are the best of the best. From animal watching to hiking to trekking with gorillas to observing extinct volcanoes, you’ll never get bored in Uganda and Rwanda. It’s time to cross one more thing off of your bucket list: a trip to Africa! Whether you are travelling alone, with family or a group of friends, there is something to do for everyone. Acanela offers fun, affordable adventures for all ages. We would be thrilled to have you join us on our Uganda & Rwanda gorilla trek!
Post written by Annelin Stephens