Embark on a journey to the pearl of Africa! Uganda may not be the first destination on your bucket list; however, this east Africa gem is impossible to overlook. Unique wildlife encounters, lush rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls, majestic mountains, and rich culture await you. A trip here is never to be forgotten with the incredible experiences that are found only in this country. Here are the top reasons why your bucket list NEEDS Uganda.
Gorilla Trekking Experience
Imagine yourself up close and personal with troops of rare gorillas, immersed in their natural habitat. Only around 1000 Mountain Gorillas still exist on Earth. Over half of them live in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Touring the park, a rainforest hike allows travelers a once in a lifetime encounter with gorilla families. Visitors spend over an hour observing and interacting with these creatures. The awestruck feeling that comes in the silence of the rainforest, watching these massive mammals is inspiring. Unlike peering into a cage at the zoo, you are in the wild as a VIP gorilla guest. Make sure your camera is charged and ready as the photo opportunities are out of this world! Reserve a guaranteed spot on a gorilla trek today!
Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch
As the only wild rhino tribe in Uganda, the Ziwa sanctuary is another animal encounter that will make you fall in love with Uganda. Walking through the African brush with the magnificent rhinos by your side is inspiring and can become your reality! Trained guides ensure a safe experience and track the rhinos to help you see plenty of action.
Diverse Wildlife
Beyond the gorillas and rhinos, Uganda is home to an abundance of the most exotic wildlife on the planet. Primates are a common sight such as the Chimpanzee, Red-tailed monkey, Golden monkey, Baboon, and more. Thought you were done with intimate animal encounters? Travelers can spend another hour in the dense jungle interacting with chimpanzee families. Stay alert and keep your eyes to the sky to see over 300 bird species such as the Shoebill Stork, Crested Crane, and the Great Blue Turaco. The rare Forest Elephant, Leopard, Forest Hog, and Crocodile are just a few more examples of what Uganda’s unique wildlife has to offer. Don’t miss your chance to rendezvous with these African animals!
Gorilla Safari Camp
While in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, the beauty never stops. After a long day of trekking, continue observing the beautiful rainforest canopy from the luxury of your bathtub. Spacious tents include comfortable beds and fantastic views. Unwind at the spa and minibar to prepare for the next day. The meals carry a combination of Africa’s best to ensure you taste the local fruits and veggies. The experience of staying in a base camp like this is special as you are conveniently located in the national park, minutes from your trekking adventures. Learn more about how you can relish in these accommodations!
Batwa Village
No adventure is complete without connecting with the local culture. Uganda has deep-rooted culture in music, dancing, cuisine, hunting, and more. The Batwa Pygmy tribe has thrived with the Bwindi wildlife for thousands of years. Take a moment to see how this hunter-gatherer group survives and embrace the rather particular culture. Modern humanity has changed the way the Batwa tribe lives as they have shrunk in size and living area; however, cultural experience tours expose the ways of the Batwa and give back to the local communities. See the women cook a traditional meal, observe a native hunting demonstration, gaze on as a classic fire starting method is demonstrated, and learn the Batwa way of medicine and blacksmith. The Batwa people display native dances with synchronized songs and animal skin drums to show off their beautiful culture. This can’t miss tour takes you to another world and catches a glimpse of how their lives differ.
Murchison Falls
Dozens of waterfalls and over 160 lakes help Uganda earn the “Pearl of Africa” nickname from Winston Churchill. Murchison Falls is the one of the most powerful in the world. Between Lake Albert and Lake Kyoga, the Victoria Nile sends 11,000 ft³/s of water through a gorge that is just 33 feet wide! This beautiful natural wonder is something that needs to be seen in person to truly feel its majesty. The Murchison Falls National Park area is full of safari opportunities and is an excellent stop for every Uganda trip.
Sipi Falls
This trio of waterfalls is found near the eastern border of Uganda. Sipi Falls is an essential for those hiking Mt. Elgon. Take a break from the city bustle and enjoy the over 300 foot high waterfall. Nothing captures Africa quite like a powerful waterfall in the midst of lush mountain hills. The most popular trail to see the falls is a casual walking trail that takes less than an hour. Be sure to plan sufficient time to soak in the peaceful area at the base.
Safety
When traveling to Africa, safety tends to be a major concern. Fortunately, Uganda is one of the safer countries to visit with relatively low crime. Common caution should be taken to avoid street crime, but foreign visitors should feel safe. As of September 2020, Uganda has yet to reopen its international borders since the COVID-19 pandemic but plans to do so in the coming months. Safety is yet another reason you can feel comfortable securing this African highlight on your bucket list.
With so much to see and do, it can be stressful planning your own trip to these foreign destinations! Save yourself and book with Acanela Expeditions. Our five-day adventure includes the Gorilla Trek, Batwa Village Experience, Chimpanzee Encounter, Safari Camp, and more! Cross this country off of your bucket list and learn more how you can experience the wonder of Uganda.
Post written by Collin Peterson