10 Reasons why you should book a Uganda holiday

posted 16th April 2012 by Danica Wilson in Destinations

Why Gorilla Trekking safari in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda open you up to a secret paradise that few people venture to explore on safari in Africa. If you are in search of something beautiful, mysterious, unique and truly life changing, it has to be Uganda.

There’s other reasons… so read all about it here.

Then if you think you are ready to make your dream Uganda safari a reality…

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1. Track the Mountain Gorillas

One of the most endangered species on the planet, there are around 800 remaining in Bwindi National Park and the Virunga Mountains. With 95% of their genes bearing resemblance to those of humans, they are genetically one of the closest primates to us and you will see why when you find them.

For 1 hour you will sit and observe these magical mountain gorillas, they truly are gentle giants.

2. Uganda Safaris galore

There are a number of other game parks in Uganda offering fantastic wildlife experiences, from Lake Mburo National Park and its stunning landscapes and plains game to the giant and wildlife rich Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Kibale Forest National Park has over 13 species of primates including wild chimpanzees. Kidepo National Park is a birdlovers paradise and Murchison Falls National Park is impressive with its untamed savannah, roaring falls where the Nile bursts out into a white water rage.

Fantastic wildlife here too including buffalo, crocodiles, hippos and other plains game.

3. Visit the Source of the Nile

Here’s your chance to visit the source of the Nile, the world’s longest river. Prepare for a journey to Jinja just 1 hour from Kampala city centre and you are there! When you get to the source of the Nile, it’s rather overwhelming to think of its distance from this point forth.

The Nile has a number of tributaries and sources with the Nile proper originating from Lake Victoria starting in Jinja, Uganda. Here at the shore of Lake Victoria if flows northwards over Ripon Falls and into another Lake, Kyoga. The Victoria Niles heads onwards west into Lake Albert and so it continues.

As a result of the source, Jinja has earned itself the title as Adventure Capital of East Africa. Here you can indulge in land and water activities like white water rafting, jet boating, kayaking to community walks, quad biking, horse riding and cycling to name a few.

4. Ancient Nyero Rock Paintings

Little do people know about these impressive rock paintings  in Kumi near the village of Nyero. They provide indisputable evidence of artistic ability in this locale from ages past.

The rock face is decorated with ornate designs, canoes and zebras.  It is an insight into the yesteryear of Uganda.

5. Uganda Tombs of Kings

Kasubi tombs, for those looking for historical enrichment, is an exceptional history lesson.  For it is here you will find the four tombs of Kings (called Kabakas) of the Uganda Kingdom.  The buildings are massive traditional reed and bark-cloth structures.

6. Embark on a pilgrimage

Join pilgrims on the 3rd of every year as they make their way to the Matryr’s Shrine in Namugongo to commemorate the 20 victims of the Kabaka Mwanga’s wrath – burnt alive by Kabaka for hanging onto their faith. It’s a serene and spiritual journey for many who come from all over the world.

7. Climb the Mountains of the Moon

The fabled ‘Mountains of The Moon’ lie in Western Uganda on the Congolese border, with snow-covered, equatorial peaks rising to height of 5110 m and lower slopes blanketed in moorland and rich montane forest. Most of the park is accessible to hikers with magnificent scenery and 19 Albertine Rift endemics, amongst them Rwenzori Turaco and Shelley’s Crimsonwing, would be ample reward for the intrepid, backpacking birder.

National Geographic rated it as one of the World’s Best Hikes because of its diversity and birding. Best time is January – February and July.

8. Ngamba Islands: Chimpanzee Sanctuary

The Ngamba Islands on Lake Victoria, less than an hour by boat from Entebbe, offers the opportunity to delight in a community of orphaned chimpanzees. These chimps are the lucky ones, given a new lease on life after being rescued from poachers.

9. Boda boda thrill ride

The Boda-boda is a motor cycle taxi that will take you anywhere, anytime in no time! It truly is the best way to avoid a traffic jam, just be prepared for an adventure on two wheels!

10. Holiday weather all year around

Bad weather is a quality unknown in this part of the world. It feels like summer every day in Uganda.  It never seems to get too hot, never too cold and the balance is just right.  Even when it rains, it’s enjoyable and we’re not just saying that because it’s one of our favourite destinations.

Uganda safari secrets

Not even mentioned yet in the above list is Lake Bunyonyi, Africa’s deepest lake, Sezibwa Falls and Sipi Falls.  Or the cultures and traditions and food!  Kwanjula is the traditional introduction ceremony between bride and groom and a fantastic experience if you find one with mock battles, teasing, taunting and great food and celebration as the finale!

Most importantly for us is Uganda’s beautiful people. It is not a country who’s only attraction is its wildlife. It is a proud nation whose people make it what you see and feel when you are there exploring its far reaches. This country is filled with such colour, energy and love it is contagious!  You’ll want to return again someday and we sure hope you do.

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