Uganda the Pearl of Africa has developed into a world-class safari destination offering gorilla wildlife safaris. Its tourism industry is now looking for upmarket accommodations, a high level of service, good food and polished operations. New scheduled flights are now connecting popular destinations. And accessible charter flights are also opening up the country to people looking for a flexible gorilla safari.
And now mountain gorilla trekking tour has turned into one of the must-do bucket list activities in the world. Uganda is one of only three countries to offer this and the other two being Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo). While mountain gorillas have put Uganda on the travel map, the country has a lot more to offer, including classic Savannah safari parks being Kidepo Valley, Murchison Falls, Lake Mburo and Queen Elizabeth National Parks.
However, this is still mostly done as an add-on to a Kenya or Tanzania safari for the luxury market. Uganda is becoming more equipped to offer luxury safaris, and travelers can now consider spending their safari in Uganda only.
Moving on to the places I visited:
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a unique experience spotting rhinos while on foot. After a quick greeting, background to the center and orientation we were driven to a different part of the sanctuary and then took off on foot to find some of the White Rhino. We quite quickly encountered one mother Rhino and her calf who were very relaxed.
We then moved on and then found a group of another six Rhino. There was again another mother with her calf but then also a third mother who had one calf of her own and two adopted calves. It was amazing to see so many Rhinos altogether and then two of the calves started having a mock fight which was so fun.
The guide was amazing and told us so much information about the Rhino’s. The grounds of the sanctuary are lovely in and of themselves. There’s other wildlife including lots of Bush buck but we also saw a Forest Duiker which was cool. Would absolutely recommend this to anyone who is even remotely interested in wildlife and possibly even if you’re not interested in wildlife at all.
Stayed at Amuka Safari Lodge situated in the heart of the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. A mid-range Lodge that offers good quality accommodation, food and services in true, African safari style. I stayed here for one night.
Accommodation is lovely and very private, own private lodge within the grounds. Communal area is very pleasant with covered and outside seating. Food cooked to coincide with the camps activities. Guides and staff knowledgeable, polite and friendly. Excellent rhino trek, night walk and canoe excursion the following morning. Would definitely visit again
Murchison Falls National Park
The game drive did show us some unique wildlife, but the highlight was the view from the top of the falls and the boat ride to the falls which helped us see hippos up close and also so many birds. The boat ride was a birders paradise. I stayed at Nile Safari Lodge, a unique location in one of the most beautiful settings in Africa. It is here that the mighty River Nile takes center stage.
The lodge allows unhindered views of wild Africa at its most magnificent. Built on an elevated rise on the banks of the River Nile, Nile Safari Lodge surrounds you with the Africa as you always dreamed of. Herds of elephant, hippopotamus, crocodile and other large mammals are regularly sighted from the lodge, as the Nile flows majestically by. The lodge is also famous for its bird life, and is one of the few places from which the elusive shoe bill stork can be spotted.
The food was uniformly excellent. The service was amazing. Every meal our table was set in on a different outdoor patio overlooking the Nile. The viewing deck in the restaurant has magnificent views of the Nile and the spotlights at night are a lovely touch. Seeing the hippos frolicking in the river at night is quite charming. But the food is mediocre.
Kibale Forest National Park
Chimpanzees from less than 10 feet distance. We were lucky enough to be “guided” by a chimpanzee into the forest for almost 5minutes. I stayed at Kyaninga Lodge one night. This place is incredible. Rooms are individual cottages individually set across a mountain ridge. The views of the Crater Lake are out of this world. Utterly stunning. There is free use of kayaks to explore the lake, I recommend and swimming in the lake is wonderful. Hike the crater rim for incredible views. Service and food were outstanding. This was one of the best places I stayed on a multi-hotel trip around Uganda. Eco-friendly and sustainably built.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National is a fascinating part of the Western Branch of the Rift Valley. I had 3days in the wilderness of Queen Elizabeth and I was so great the most amazing thing is boats cruise with plentiful spices of birds, morning game drive for tree climbing lions in Ishasha sector, down part of the park was incredible. I stayed at Kyambura Gorge Lodge for 2 two nights. This is a great place with comfortable rooms, each one with a great view.
The food is great. I particularly enjoyed the salads which were fresh and interesting. They are able to take care of all details on your trip and they make sure that your stay looks like you are home as you get entertained and provided with extensive support during your stay. Every one of the staff is friendly and helpful. This lodge trains people from the community so they can eventually work at Kyambura or any lodge in the area.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
The gorillas and the forest walk. Such fascinating and expressive animals. Apart from the Gorillas, the walk in the Bwindi Forest itself is mind blowing. I stayed at Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, tucked away in Nkuringo, Clouds has immediate access to track 6 gorilla families, and perfect, views of the Virunga Volcanoes.
At 2,000 m, Clouds is the highest lodge and has amazing views of the Virunga volcanoes. The drive from Kisoro is bumpy as you would expect and worth the journey, (you could take a helicopter instead if you wish). On arrival to this beautiful lodge, you are greeted at the entrance with a warm welcome by Nick, Chantelle and their son Liam. A hot towel and fresh juice are just the beginning. Your personal butler takes you to your generous private cottage, with a log fire and a true wow factor.
The beds and linen are so comfortable, the shower is powerful and piping hot and the amenities are perfect. Anything your heart desires is a call away. A massage in your room is a fabulous indulgence, especially after a gorilla safaris! The main lodge area has tables and chairs outside to enjoy the view and lounges to sink into to read a book or enjoy a drink. The food is excellent, with many vegetables picked from the lodge garden. Mostly, I love that there is a true partnership with the community. To help with the hospital, school and local businesses with money donated from each bed night. You can also take part in a community walk to see for yourself. Well worth the trip. I would love to return.
Lake Bunyonyi – I swam in this lake. It was so beautiful. Pictures on the internet do not do justice to this place. I have never seen such landscapes. You should definitely see the view from the top of the mountains to understand the expanse of this lake. There are so many islands that are in this lake. I also visited the extremely poor Pygmy Tribe.
The view is simply breathtaking and the facilities are excellent. It’s a very peaceful place and staff are great. I stayed in cottage 16 (they’ve added new ones recently) and the big room (king bed with a small living room) was tastefully decorated with modern furniture and big windows in three directions.
There was a heater and decent WI-FI. I liked the big bathroom and tub. I wish I could have stayed longer. Arcadia Lodge Lake Bunyonyi has two high-end Bombardier Jet Skis available for hire, as well as four Honda quad bikes that guests can hire to explore the muddy tracks along the Lake shore or the ridges overlooking the lake.
Overall, one the most amazing times I have had on a vacation. This country truly deserves much more tourism than it currently gets. It has unparalleled natural beauty and very unique experiences to offer. It is very safe and the people are extremely friendly.
