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Kidepo Valley National Park

January 17, 2017

Kidepo Valley National park is one of Uganda’s most isolated and fabulous national parks. The park covers 1,442 square kilometers in the rugged, semi-arid valleys of Karamoja region on the far northern Eastern part of Uganda on the border with Sudan. The park has a scenery unmatched to any other park in East Africa as well as great numbers of plant and animal species. Kidepo vegetation is of open tree Savannah varying much in structure, size and composition. Mountain forests take over some of the high places, while areas along the Lorupei River support thick Acacia geradi forests. The ideal time for visiting the park is March-April for all the specials and many transit migrants. But visiting is good for all year-round visiting and a tour would roughly take 4-7 days to optimally exploit all the trip activities in the park.

Key Bird Species.
For birders, the park has over 475 species, the second largest number next to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Birds like the black-breasted barbet and Karamoja Apallis, amongst the Great Lakes Region’s most rare species, are mostly seen at the park. The park is naturally gifted with a number of birds that can provide great times watching by any holiday-maker. These include Ostrich, African Swallow-tailed Kite, Eastern Pale Chanting Goshawk, Pygmy Falcon, Fox Kestrel, Stone Partridge, Clapperton’s and Heuglin’s Francolins, Yellow-necked Spurfowl, Kori, White-bellied and Hartlaub’s Bustards, Eastern Yellow and Jackson’s Hornbills Violet-tipped Courser, Black-headed Plover, Four-banded Sand Grouse, Bruce’s Green Pigeon and Rose-ringed Parakeet.

The park also has the white-crested turaco, White-bellied Go-away bird, White-faced Scoops Owl, Isabelline and Heuglin’s Wheaters, Long-tailed and Standard-winged Nightjars, Little Green Bee-eater, Abyssinian and Rufous-crowned Rollers, Foxy and Red pate Cisticolas, Abyssinian Ground, , Red-fronted and Black-breasted Barbets, Brown-backed Woodpecker, Singing Bush lark, Red-winged Lark, Ethiopian Swallow, Pied, African Grey Flycatcher, Karamoja Apalis, White-bellied Tit, Mouse-coloured Penduline Tit, Northern White-crowned and Yellow-billed Shrikes, Slate-coloured Boubou and Fan-tailed Raven

Others that cannot jump a visitors sight include superb starling, Red billed Oxpecker, Eastern Violet backed, Pygmy and Beautiful Sunbirds, Rufous and Chestnut Sparrow, Yellow-spotted Petronia, White-headed and White-billed Buffalo Weavers, White-browed and Chestnut- crowned Sparrow Weavers, Grey-capped Social and Speckle-fronted Weavers, Green-winged, Orange-winged and Red-winged Pytilias, Black-bellied and Black-faded Waxbill, Steel-blue and Straw tailed Whydahs, Brown-rumped Bunting. Kidepo Valley National Park Activities.

Bird watching Kidepo Valley has Apoka Rest Camp and Park Headquarters facing the southern Narus Valley which is a big spot to commence a wonderful Kidepo bird watching. The park boasts an widespread avifauna, 465 species have been recorded (three new species were added to the list in 1995). Of particular interest, the ostrich and the Kori bustard are predominantly associated with waterless regions.The fine-looking Silverbird and small bands of Yellow-billed Shrike common on thorn trees around camp as well as other types like Vinaceous Dove, Hoopoe, Nubian Woodpecker, Mosque Swallow, Ruppell’s and Superb Starlings, Scarlet-chested Sunbird, Little Weaver and Red-cheeked Cordon-bleu. An everlasting water hole at the edging of the camp attracts swallows and an assortment of seed eaters including Yellow-rumped Seed eater. It is warmheartedly visited at night-time by Four-banded Sandgrouse, Elephant, Buffalo and infrequently by Lions. Clapperton’s Francolin, Black Coucal, African Moustached and Broad-tailed Warblers, Marsh Tchagra and Crimson-rumped Waxbill may be seen in the rank grassland along the normally dry watercourse neighbouring to the camp or along the pathway to Apoka lodge.

Animals to watch
Kidepo Valley National Park has about 80 species of mammals 28 out of which are as well found in other National Parks Uganda. Among them are bat-eared fox, carcal, cheetah and Klipspringer and many more. During President Idi Amin regime (1971-1979), Kidepo like many other Ugandan National Parks suffered much as many animals were killed due to poaching which left many game herds depleted, meaning that the park is still recovering. Mammals including Elephant, Common Zebra, warthog, Cape buffalo, bush pig, Rothschild giraffe, Bohor Reedbuck, eland, bush buck, bush duskier, reed buck, Jackson’s hartebeest, oribi, defassa Waterbucks and Kongoni have exposed a notable raise in numbers. Carnivore species or ppredators unique to Kidepo and Karamoja region include the spotted Hyenas, Leopard, Lion, bat-eared fox, aardwolf, caracal, cheetah, hunting dog, black-backed jackal and side-striped jackal plus many others that are commonly seen in the park. The Narus Valley has Oribis in masses and the Guenther’s Dik Dik are all over the place in the dry thorn wood in the north. Senegal Galago and Side stripy Jackal may be found in the rest camp at night and White-tailed Mongoose is common but more probable to be found on a night drive. Reptiles are also somewhat common in the park. Of the 80 species of mammals listed in 1971, 28 were not identified to occur in any other Ugandan national park.

Hiking and Scenery viewing
Hiking can be made on Lamoj Mountains a not many kilometers from the Park Headquarters. Visitors can also go to view the fabulous Kidepo River Valley dominated by Borassus palm forest; it has a large flat bed that is dry for most of the year. From Kidepo Valley, you may also visit the Kanangorok Hot Springs, which are situated only 11 km from Kidepo river valley. The mountain and Savannah scenery of the park is fantastic. The Narus valley is situated in the South West of the park; the rough Napore-Nyagia mountain range forms its western frontier. Separating it from the Kidepo Valley in the northeast, are the Natira and Lokayot Hills. To the north in the Sudan are the Lotukei Mountains and the Morungole range marks the southern edge of the park.

Traditional Cultural Performances Communities near the park stage cultural dances and performances. Dances like Emuya of the Naporre and Nyangia, Larakaraka and Apiti dances of the Acholi are common and worth seeing or participate in if you so wish. Cultural visits and nature walk to the Karamajong manyattas (homesteads) where you can see kraals local communities’ livestock, traditional costume, stools, spears headdress, knives, bows, arrows and jewellery to mention make a the whole enjoyable and memorable. Visiting the splendid Kidepo River Valley dominated by Borassus palm forest is another good experience. Kanangorok Hot Springs, located only 11 kilometers from Kidepo river valley is a must-visit. Picnicking from the sand is also there.

Picnic at Kidepo
As you visit Kidepo River, spare time and visit the picnic site situated on the sand and you will not fail to hear the sound of palm leaves in a continuous movement in the wind.

Accommodations at Kidepo National Park
1. Apoka Rest Camp overlooking the Narus Valley with comfortable rooms are always available.
2. National Park Bandas at Apoka have items like bedding, mosquito netting, hot showers, fresh drinking water and firewood. It is recommended to carry your own food for your personal preparation or can be cooked for you if you so wish. Camp shop has various types of beverages.
3. The Kakine Campsite, it’s a small distance from Apoka. This campsite has firewood and clean drinking water. Upon arrival at Apoka Rest Camp you can get a ranger-guide to go along with you all over while at the park. A ranger knows many of the bird species. Meals: The Rest Camp or hostel do not stock food, so visitors are for that reason advised to carry enough food and drinks for the period of their stay in the park.

The Rest Camp staff can arrange for the cooking. However other additional diet such as chicken and goat meat can be arranged from the nearby areas for visitors who intend to stay for a longer time.

GOING TO KIDEPO VALLEY NATIONAL PARK
A tourist can use road or air transport. By and large from Kampala, a drive goes covers a distance in about in 11-hours in which 4Wheel Drive vehicles are most suitable.
Going to Kidepo by Road:
Kampala-Jinja-Mbale-Soroti-Moroto-Kidepo-792 km
Kampala-Masindi-Lira-Kotido-Kidepo-705 km
Kampala-Jinja-Mbale-Sironko-Kotido-Kideop-740 km
Kampala-Soroti -Kotido via Amuria 656 km

Driving is more rewarding as vast parts of Karamoja are nice-looking and entirely wilderness. Nevertheless road conditions are sometimes complex and 4-wheel drive vehicles (4WD) are recommended. Visitors should note that the road mainly in use from Kotido to Kaabong passes via Kanawauat.

Travelers who decide to tag along the Soroti-Moroto road will be fascinated by the view of the steep volcano of Alekilek about midway Moroti and Soroti. And for those who take the Lira-Kotido road will enjoy the scenery of the Labwor hills and in particular the massive and bare Alerek (Kidi Rwot) rock about 55 km to Kotido.

Going to Kidepo by Air:
Chartered aircraft are available from Entebbe International Airport to the Park Headoffices. There is an airstrip at Lomej about 3 km south of the Park Headquarters. There are also Chartered aircraft from Kajjanzi to the Park Headquarters. AAB Tours and Travel can arranges for you the best cost-effective air transport means.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Myuganda

January 10, 2017

Penetrating into the Bwindi impenetrable forest national park is a life changing experience you should not miss while on your Uganda wildlife safari. Well-known for being a home for the amazing endangered mountain gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Reserve was set up in 1942 and afterwards elevated to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in 1992. Found in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is part of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest placed along the Democratic Republic of Congo border next to the Virunga National Park on the edge of the western Great Rift Valley. It consists of 331 square kilometres of tropical forest with both montane and lowland forest and is accessible barely on foot. The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site with one of the richest ecosystems in Africa and a diversity of animal and bird species. The park is a habitat for some 120 species of mammals including 7 diurnal primates and about 30 elephants, 346 species of birds, 202 species of butterflies, 163 species of trees, 100 species of ferns, 27 species of frogs, chameleons, geckos and many endangered species.

being a shelter for the highest number of the world’s mountain gorillas, Bwindi impenetrable forest national park is a best place for gorilla safaris in Africa. There are 12 habituated Mountain Gorilla groups open to tourism split in the four sectors of Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga in all corners of the park. The biologically diverse park derives its names from the local language ‘Bwindi’ (dark place) which defines the impenetrable nature of its thick forests.

In 1994, it was acknowledged as the world Heritage site. The word Bwindi means Impenetrable and what makes Bwindi Impenetrable is the fact that it has twisted vegetation wrapped over an intensively fissured backdrop of the sheer, draughty ridges as well as the slippery valleys and hills. The park has a big population of gorillas and is renowned for its coldness in the morning and at night. The coolest months are usually June and July and the average temperature is about 70c-200c. This is the reason why for safari purposes, one should come with warm clothes because Bwindi is so cold and receives about 2390mm of rain. It has two rain seasons, little rains are in the months of March-May and heavy rains are in the months of September as well as November and the rain in Bwindi forest lasts for longer hours.

Hot to get to Bwindi Forest National Park?
Bwindi National Park is found 520 Kilometres from Kampala, Uganda’s capital city. Usually stronger vehicles like 4Wheel Drives are recommended. There are two routes:

1. One can move from Kampala-Kabale (414Kilometres, between 5-7 hours), then Kabale-Kanungu- Kanyantorogo – Buhoma Park Headquarters, about 120kms, a 3.5hour-drive.
2. Kampala-Kabale (414Kms), then to Ruhija and finally to Buhoma which is 95 kilometres, a three-hour drive.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest animal species:

Gorillas, it’s an address for over 360 gorilla beringei, this is half the number of the remaining world mountain gorilla population.
Chimpanzees
Monkey i.e. Hoest’s, red-tailed and blue monkey, black and white colobus
Olive baboon.
Over 346 species of birds registered (Bwindi has 90% of all Albertine Rift endemics.
Over 200 of butterflies.
Mammals i.e. buffaloes, leopards, elephants and many more

Tourist Activities in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Even though Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is major known for harboring Mountain Gorillas, there are many other activities besides gorilla Trekking that any visitor could peacefully undertake and these include

1. Visiting Mountain Gorillas
Gorilla trekking is the core activity in Bwindi to the 4 Gorilla families of gorilla beringei. Bwindi National Park gorillas are organized now in four groups that can be visited by a tourist:

(a) Mubare group, this one has 16 gorillas and 1 silverback.
(b) Habinyanja group with 23 gorillas and 2 silverbacks.
(c) Rushegula group of 9 gorillas and 2 silverbacks.
(d) Nkuring group with 20 gorillas and 2 silverbacks.

The information concerning mountain gorillas can be got from Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Headquarters or Bwindi Impenetrable National Park management or from a tour operator like AAB Tours and Travel. Bwindi Gorilla tracking is a bit tiresome, implying that bodily fitness is a very important aspect. By and large gorilla tracking runs from 8:30 am local Uganda time up to late hours of the day. About 8 permits are sold on a daily basis for each of these groups at UWA offices. So it’s better to book 130 days in advance to ensure proper programming. Visits to the gorillas are restricted for environmental and animal safety reasons and each gorilla group is only visited for one hour a day by a limited number of people who have normally purchased permits months in advance.

Gorilla Trekking Requirements

It is worthwhile to come along with the following items for an efficient tracking of mountain gorillas in Uganda.
Hiking boots- ankle level boots are ok but make sure it is something handy.
Rain Coat
Water proof container for their cameras
A warm cardigan
A pair of binoculars if you are a keen bird watcher.
Video- filming is allowed in the parks though not outside the park
Thick trousers and a long sleeved top are ideal for tracking.
Gloves
If you prefer wearing a hat, a baseball cap is recommended.
Birding in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Bwindi Forest is a central point for birdwatchers. Hiking trails are open to people to view birds, butterflies, primates and trees along the Munyaga, Waterfall, Rushura, River Ivi, Mu bwindi swamp nature walks and Bamboo. Cultural walks can be undertaken to Buhoma village community for seeing traditional homestead, the healer, the banana brewing exercise, traditional handicraft and cultural concerts.

One can watch up to 150 bird species in a day especially at Buhoma and Ruhija. Identify your need to allow proper arrangements in time for the whole day. Bwindi has over 350 bird species, representing a 90% of all Albertine rift Endemics which include:

Short tailed Warbler

White-tailed Blue Monarch
Yellow-eyed black Fly-catcher
Kivu Ground Thrush, Dusky Crimson Wing
Bar-tailed Trogon
Rusty-faced woodland Warbler
Gruer’s Rush Warbler
Wilcock & Honey-guide and many more

A good number of these birds are very uncommon in the Great Lakes Region and the prospects of seeing them in Bwindi forest are high.

Munyanga River Trail
Munyanga river trail is a moving small walk for visitors with restricted time. Interesting to see here are basically birds and primates at the forest fringe. The amazing waterfall trail provides an attractive feature of the forest with a large amount of tree ferns, epithetic ferns, orchids and Bwindi’s colourful collection of butterflies. This trail gives a clear image and a calm of a true tropical rain forest.

Nature Walks
Lasting between 2 to 4 days in the park, there are 4 exciting hiking trails. There is likelihood to see and gain knowledge about primates, different exceptional bird species, butterflies, trees, plants and other organisms on all the four trails. Under the direction of a skilled guide, who is a requirement on the tour, you get a wider knowledge of how the park’s coordination operates. The guides understand well the primatology, ornithology and botany of the park.

Ruizi River Trail
This is the longest of the trails and takes a full day to complete and it is always good for bird lovers. Visitors in 4WD vehicles transport should reflect on crossing the rough centre of the park through Ruhija. While on this Uganda trip, look out for duikers, primates and both forest and grassland bird species. In Ruhija, visitors can get the three-hour panorama crowded trek to the Mubwindi swamp. One can also stroll expediently to the Bamboo zone.

Rushura Trail
This trail is very pleasant for the reason that it commands an open view across the western rift valley floor. To the west, Congo’s Parc Nationale des Virungas provides an impressive backdrop of clear Lake Edward and the Rwenzori Mountain.

Muzabiro Trail
Muzabiro Trail presents relaxed incredible spectacular view of Bwindi Forest, Western Rift Valley and the Virungas. While on your way, you will view a lot of ancient tree ferns. When you get to the top of this trail, you will appreciate the fantastic spot for a picnic lunch.

Bamboo Trail – it is among the areas of the highest range in the park and its trail offers 14 vegetation types. When at the pinnacle of this trail, you are treated to an open picture of the comprehensible water Lake Bunyonyi and the thick Mafuga Forest.

Cultural Performances

In the evenings at Bwindi, there are by and large distinguished by conventional dance performances by local tropes mainly women and orphan groups and money from these performances is intended for improving the lives of the locals who live around the park. One is at liberty to participate in the dancing with the locals, a thrinlling experience indeed.

ACCOMMODATION
Bwindi is exceptional with numerous accommodation facilities of almost all classes of people. Accommodation below is of deluxe, midrange and budget nature:

Mantana, with very luxurious safer tents
Abercrombie and Kent with luxury secure tents.
Ruhinja Guest House
Buhoma Homestead
Savannah Resort Hotel at Kihihi
The local community also operates a clean accommodation camp with a restaurant serving traditional dishes for breakfast, lunch and super
In Kihihi, Savanna Resort Hotel is 40 kilometres to Buhoma and near Ishasha sector, of Queen Elizabeth National Park

Gorilla Trekking Precautions

When you come across the gorillas, make an effort to be obedient as much as possible.
Try to give a sideway look; don’t look at them straight in the face.
Stick tightly to the group
Talk softly or in whispers
They don’t like flash photography
Gorillas are wild

Gorillas are a bit wild and should not be irritated carelessly. Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has a warning notice that it does not take any responsibility for any injury sustained by wild animals in their habitats, therefore, always:

Keep your distance of about 7 metres from the gorillas
Do not give food to the gorillas
Know that gorillas have a right of the way
Do not persuade them to get into contact with you in any way
Do not eat in the environs of the gorillas

Gorilla Health
Currently; there are just about 700 mountain gorillas in the world. Thus these animals are classified as endangered species.

To keep away from transmitting human diseases to them;

Try to avoid tracking if you are suffering from transmittable diseases. In case you develop a severe case of flu, your money will be fully refunded if you make this known in advance. Do not sneeze towards them
Do not spit out in the forest or defecate carelessly. If you have to, the guides will help you with a matchet to dig a hole to bury your waste.
Any person under 15 years is not allowed to track gorillas.

Semliki National Park

Myuganda

November 10, 2016

Semliki National Park covers an area of 220 square km and is one of Uganda’s newest National Parks having been gazetted in October 1993. The Park occupies a flat smoothly rolling landform ranging from 670 -760 metres above the sea level. As all streams and rivers from the surrounding areas are flooded drain into the Park plus the poor drainage and topography, many areas are flooded during the rainy season. The average annual rainfall is 1250 mm with peaks from March to May and September and December. The temperature varies from 18o C – 30o C with comparatively small day after day variations.
Semliki National Park is an extension of the huge Ituri Forest and formed a fraction of the forest range during the climatic disarray of the Pleistocene. Found about 50km from Fort Portal, Semliki is one of the richest areas in both flora and fauna in Africa with largely birds. The park is in the distant corner of Bundibugyo District, lying crossways to the Uganda-Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) border in the western arm of the East African Rift Valley. The geographical coordinates are 0o 44′- 00 53′ N – 290 57-30o 11′E. To the southeast are the Rwenzori Mountains, to the west is DR Congo and to the north Lake Albert.

Tourist activities at Semliki National Park.
A good number fascinating attractions at Semliki are the unusual panorama, hot springs, the tropical forest walk, bird watching, primate viewing and the twisting river Semliki. Spend three to five days camping and trailing in the real African jungle.

Visit to the hot springs
Know that a tour to Semuliki is rich of the most fabulous and wonderful views. Take a trip and experience the most exciting meandering Bundibugyo road through the Rwenzori escarpments. While in the mountains at ‘Mungu Ni Mukubwa’, the road offers scenic views of the meandering Semuliki River, the fuming Hot springs and the green tropical rain forest lengthening up to Ituri forest in DRC. Two Hot springs in a tract of hot mineral thick swampland, endowed with birds, insects and mammal life easily reached using a modern trail network. Enjoy a view of a two-meter spray of hot water (130oC) and a pool (12 m diameter) of discharging hot water (106oC). Interestingly, you can boil food like eggs in the natural boiler within ten minutes and eat it.

Semliki Nature Walk
Life in the jungle of Semliki is incredible mostly for bird watching, primates, butterfly and plant lovers. Walking through this jungle, you lead to River Semliki meanders, the only one in East Africa. A host of forest mammals like buffaloes, elephants, statungas, leopards, primates, bush pig, Water Chevrotain, White-bellied Duiker or Dwarf Antelope, Beecroft’s Anomalure or Zenker’s Flying Mouse and a wide range of forest and water birds come to your sight while at the park but not common. Pigmy Hippopotamus and Crocodiles are usually seen by chance. The park has 8 species of primates.

There are also timid and largely night-time mammals like the Grey-cheeked Mangabey, Vervet, Red-tailed and Mona, Gentle (Blue) Monkeys, Olive Baboon and Guereza Colobus, De Brazza’s Monkeys are rare and Chimpanzees may rarely be heard than seen. Nocturnal primates include Pottos and Galagos. Squirrels such as Fire-footed Rope or Red-legged Sun Squirrel are also rare. Little collard fruit Bat and Target Rat are also there. There are more than 300 species of butterflies and 46 species of forest Swallowtails and Charaxes (75% of Uganda’s total) and at least 235 species of moths have been classified as restricted. About 305 species of trees have been recorded out of which 125 are restricted to this park alone.

Forest life in Semliki is breathtaking especially for birders, primate, butterfly and plant lovers. The jungle walk usually takes you up to River Semliki meanders, the only one in East Africa with luck; you may well see forest buffaloes and elephants, statungas, leopards, pigmy hippopotamus, crocodile primates and a wide range of forest and water birds.

Semliki Bird Watching
Bird Species at Semliki consist of the Broad-billed Roller, Green Wood-hoopoe, African Grey Hornbill, African Moustached Warbler, rapacious Red-necked Falcon, Black-winged Red-Bishop, White-winged Widowbird and Fawn-breasted Waxbill, Double-toothed Barbet, Yellow-throated Leaflove, Green-backed Eremomela, Piapiac, Black-chinned Quail-Finch, Red-shouldered Cuckoo-shrike and Western Violet-backed sunbird, the list is endless.

Spot Fishing
Equipped with your fishing facilities, you can go sport fishing along the river.
Getting to Semliki.You can use major roads:
From Kampala via Mubende to Fort Portal which is about 180 Km (about 4-5 hrs drive)
Kampala via Masaka to Mbarara, Bushenyi to Kasese is about465 Km (7-8 hrs).
In both routes 4-wheel drives vehicles are the most ideal and faster. While the Kampala-Fort Portal via Mubende is much shorter, the Kampala via Masaka, Mbarara and Kasese gives you chance to Visit Lake Mburo National Park, Kyambura Wildlife Reserve, Rwenzori Mountains National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
From Fort Portal, A two to three hours drive on the rough road towards Bundibugyo will bring you to Sempaya Gate (52 Km). The Park headquarters at Ntandi is 5 Km further from the gate along the same direction.

Accommodation
1. Semliki Safari Lodge: Semliki Safari Lodge: this is a luxury lodge positioned in the Semliki Valley Wildlife Reserve, in the Western Rift Valley. The lodge was built using local materials to correspond with the natural environment. It has Canvas tents permanently thatched each with fixed bathrooms and confidential verandas with a stunning panoramic view, a fully furnished lounge with soft comfortable seats; a well-maintained swimming pool while the restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and all delicious meals.

Tour activities at Semliki Safari Lodge

Chimpanzee Trekking

Guided Walks – there are over 50 kilometres of on foot trails

Game Drives

Boat trips on Lake Albert

Bird watching

Visits to the local Batwa (pygmy) community

Night game drives

Bush dinners or breakfasts

Sundowner barbeques for families

A camp site inside the Park at Bumaga, about 3 km from Sempaya Gate. Here you can spend a night in one of the two Executive bandas, hire a tent or come with your own tent for camping.

The site canteen stocked with both African and European food and drinks but meals are prepared on order. One can also prepare his own food at the site using hired cooking.

Another camp in Sempaya near Sempaya Gate. There shall be small thatched shelters for cooking and eating. Cooking utensils will be for hire, but carry your own tent and food.
You can also use luxurious accommodations including hotels and lodges in Fort Portal before or after the tour to the park.

From Fort Portal, one can drive for 2-3 hours on a 52 Km road towards Bundibugyo to reach Sempaya Gate. The Park headquarters at Ntandi, 5 Km further from the gate along the same route and a vehicle with high clearance is recommended.

SEMLIKI WILDLIFE RESERVE
Previously called the Toro Game Reserve, Semliki Wildlife Reserve is large reserve neighboring Lake Albert and the northern base of the Rwenzoris being a rich mosaic of grassland, savannah, forest and wetland habitats. The animal life is equally diverse, the Uganda kob as the most common large mammal, but there are as well forest elephants, chimpanzees, buffalos, leopards, different monkeys and antelopes. Of the 400 bird species recorded in the reserve, the shoebill stork is on a regular basis seen at close quarters on Lake Albert.

GETTING TO SEMLIKI WILDLIFE RESERVE:
Follow the road towards Semliki National Park for 30km, then take a right turn which after about 35km leads to the lodge.

WHAT TO DO AT SEMLIKI WILDLIFE RESERVE:
One can do Game drives, guided walks plus boat trips on Lake Albert that can be arranged from the lodge.

WHEN TO VISIT:
Whichever time of year.

Uganda Public Holidays

Myuganda

November 10, 2016

Listed here below are Uganda’s Public Holidays from January to December.

January 1 – New Year’s Day.
January 26 – National Resistance Movement (NRM) Liberation Day.
March, 8 – International Women’s Day.
May 1 – Labour Day.
June 3 – Martyrs’ Day.
June 9 – National Heroes’ Day.
October 9 – National Day for Independence.
December 25 – Christmas Day.
December 26 – Boxing Day.

NOTE
There are Muslim days (Ed El Fitir and Ed El Adhuha) for end of the month of Ramadhan and for slaughtering animals respectively are timed and celebrated according to local sightings of various phases of the moon. For Christians Easter Days also changes variably. These are also public days.

Uganda Map

Myuganda

November 9, 2016

Uganda is endowed with 10 National Parks spread in different parts of the country. The country’s tourism success revolves around these parks to a greater deal. These include Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Semliki Valley, Rwenzori Mounatin, Queen Elizabeth, Mgahinga, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Lake Mburo and Kidepo Valley National Park as shown on the map below. These National parks and game reserves are a home to a variety of animals, birds and plant species including the endangered mountain gorillas.

Uganda Attractions

Myuganda

November 9, 2016

Gorilla Trekking

Uganda is well known all over the word as the country with most Mountain Gorillas. In fact Uganda is the best place for Gorilla trekking in Africa and in the entire the world since it has the largest number of gorilla families inBwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. The park is famous worldwide for gorilla trekking. There are other National parks each famous for different game species such as Kibaale National Park , Lake Mburo National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park to mention but a few.

Kampala City This is the capital city of Uganda and the commercial heart of Uganda. Here one experiences the true life of Uganda as people live their daily lives. Ranging from using the numerous boda bodas to beat the traffic jam to visiting exciting places and markets within the city. Below are some of the attractions that are located within the heart of Kampala.

The Bahia temple Baha’i

House of Worship Quiet and serenity reflects the spiritual truths of the Baha’i Faith: The oneness of God, the oneness of humanity and the oneness of religion. Like all Baha’i Houses of Worship, the temple in Uganda is circular in shape, has nine sides and is surrounded by exquisite gardens The building and the gardens form a single, sacred space where all people are invited to pray to God and meditate in an atmosphere of beauty and light. The Baha’i Faith recognizes the value of beauty. The word of God reveled in every age is both beautiful and practical-creating a vision of the renewal of civilization. Louis Bourgeois, architect of the temple, conceived of ornamental tracery as embodying and celebrating light-the light of a new revelation from God reveled through Baha’u’llah. Neither of the East nor of the West, the temple design transcends any specific culture, forming a unique structure where the worlds inhabitants can come and be united in prayer.

The Kasubi Tombs

The Kasubi Tombs are located on Kasubi hill 5km away from Kampala city, Uganda, are a significant site where four Buganda kings and other royal family members are buried. This location holds great spiritual and political importance for the Ganda people and showcases traditional African architecture. It was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001 and praised for its use of natural materials.

The tombs cover about 26 hectares on Kasubi Hill, featuring open agricultural land and a royal palace constructed in 1882. Traditionally, royal tombs were separate, but the Kasubi site houses the tombs of four Buganda kings: Muteesa I, Mwanga II, Daudi Chwa II, and Sir Edward Muteesa II. The main building, Muzibu Azaala Mpanga, is a remarkable circular structure originally built with wooden poles and thatch. In 1938, modern materials like steel and concrete were added during a renovation.

The courtyard is surrounded by traditional structures that serves as the final resting place for royal widows and relatives. The sacred forest within the site, called Kibira, hides the royal tombs from public view. Despite the destruction in 2010, the Buganda Kingdom and the Ugandan government remain committed to preserving this important cultural and historical site.

Unfortunately, in March 2010, a devastating fire destroyed major buildings at the site however the cause of the fire remains unknown and news was spread on the World Heritage Sites.

The fire caused immense sorrow and led to riots during the visit of the Kabaka and President Museveni. Although the tombs’ inner sanctum protected the remains of the kings, the destruction prompted a vow from the Buganda Kingdom to rebuild, with assistance from the national government. The reconstruction began in 2014 with funding from the government of Japan.

The Kasubi Tombs were managed by the Buganda Kingdom until its abolition in 1966, and again after its reinstatement in 1993. They are protected by Ugandan law since 1972, the site is registered in the name of the Kabaka on behalf of the Kingdom. The tombs continue to be a significant spiritual and political center for the Baganda people.

The restoration plan, launched in December 2012 with foreign aid, emphasizes security measures during the reconstruction, limiting access to the tombs. The UNESCO Japanese Funds-in-Trust for the Preservation of the World Cultural Heritage provided support for the reconstruction project, aiming to remove the Kasubi Tombs from the list of World Heritage in Danger and prevent future risks.

The Uganda National Mosque

New York has the Statue of Liberty, Paris has the Eifel Tower, London has the London Eye, India has the Taj Mahal and Kampala has the Gaddafi National Mosque.The Uganda National Mosque, originally named the Gaddafi National Mosque is located 2.5 km from Kampala city center, 47 km from Entebbe airport on Old Kampala Hill, one of the seven prominent hills that define the landscape of Kampala, Uganda’s largest urban center. This mosque, the largest in the East African region and second-largest on the continent, has a rich history that intertwines with the political landscape of Uganda and the generosity of the late Libyan President, Col. Muammar Gaddafi.

History of the Uganda National Mosque

The idea of constructing the mosque was conceived in the 1970s by former Ugandan President Iddi Amin Dada. Amin recognized the absence and need for a significant emblem for the Muslim community, similar to the cathedrals representing the Catholic and Anglican communities on other hills in Kampala. The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council, formed by the government in 1972, lacked a proper headquarters and a symbolic mosque.

The initiative faced setbacks including reluctance from the council despite substantial donations from muslim nations. Amin, frustrated by embezzlement of funds however, ordered the construction of the mosque to commence in 1976. Architect M.A. Karim was tasked to draw up plans, and funding, both indirect and direct, started flowing from Col. Muammar Gaddafi in the 1970s and 2000s, respectively.

Amin’s overthrow in 1979 and a change in the political landscape momentarily hindered the mosque’s construction. However, in 2001, Gaddafi revisited the idea during his visit to Uganda at the invitation of President Museveni. He asked for a chance of having a kampala night tour where he visited places like; Makerere University Hill where he was able to view the tower of the old kampala mosque. This trip was led by Kagimu who re-proposed the idea to Gaddafi, he further arranged between Gaddafi and some Muslim leaders which led to his agreement to fund the construction of a grand mosque at Old Kampala Hill.

Structure of the National Mosque

The mosque was completed in 2006 and became a symbol of religious architectural superiority, seating up to 15,000 worshippers in the main mosque and accommodating a total of 200,000. It has a two-storied structure with large domes covered in brown mosaic, a minaret, where one can view the city. After Gaddafi’s death, its name was changed to the ‘National Mosque’ to ensure maintenance funding continuity from Libya. Eventually, in 2013, it was renamed the ‘Uganda National Mosque.’

Visiting the Uganda National Mosque

The mosque currently serves as the headquarters of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council, overseeing Islamic affairs in Uganda. Visitors can explore the mosque, situated just 2 kilometers from Kampala city center, during city tours. Modest dress is required, and coverings are provided for those in need. The mosque’s interior reveals intricate Islamic embroidery, architectural wonders, and a sense of awe that pays tribute to a higher power.

Visitors are encouraged to climb the minaret for a unique perspective, leaving their footwear at the entrance as a sign of respect. The mosque is open on special occasions like weddings and Eid days, while its offices on the ground floor are accessible at all times. The Gaddafi National Mosque stands as a religious site and a testament to the cultural, historical, and architectural of Uganda.

The Uganda Martyrs Shrine

This Uganda Martyrs Minor Basilica/Shrine is a Catholic church dedicated to the Martyrs of Uganda who shed their blood because of the Christian faith. The Shrine is well known for its beautiful and unique interior and exterior, but it is specially notable for its shape and architectural plan: the 22 copper pillars-over 100 feet long that support the shrine built in form of an African hut and its wooden doors that depict the history of the Martyrs. The Shrine has a capacity 1000 seats arranged in a circular form. The construction of the Uganda Martyrs’ Shrine began in 1967. It was completed and formally opened by the special Papal envoy, His Eminence Sergio Cardinal Pignedoli on 3rd June 1975.

The Uganda Museum

This museum portrays pre- colonial African History and of the historical items displayed includes the Nakayima tree, Ntusi, Bigo bya Mugyenyi, as well as collection of traditional musical instruments, which one is free to play plus other aspects of Ugandan history which are a good reminder of the country’s colourful past. The Uganda Society’s library is also housed in one rooms of the Uganda National Museum and the collection is comprised of approximately 3,000 volumes, maps, periodicals and photographs, all portraying African history, culture, sociology, travel and science. In addition to the already existing library, it also houses the books of East African wild life Society. Note that the books are currently available for reference only.

White Water Rafting

Uganda is the source of the longest river in the world – river Nile. This river has been a mystery from the time it was discovered by the first explorers – Grant and Speke way back in the 18th century. Adrift Uganda has been carrying out safe water rafting adventure trips for the last 28 years. It is worth the experience.

Lake Victoria

With the all the hustle and dust in the city, lake Victoria, which is the largest fresh water body in Africa offers Ugandans and all visitors to Uganda a place to unwind and relax. The beaches are developed with good service and have enough sand for games, chilling and large enough to offer quiet time for meditation and soul searching.

Uganda Tourism

Myuganda

November 4, 2016

National Parks
There are three main categories of Uganda’s wildlife protected areas namely National Parks, Wildlife Reserves, and Forest Reserves. The conservation and management of these areas is controlled by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the National Forest Authority both under the under the Ministry of Tourism Wildlife and Antiquities. Uganda has 10 established national parks allowing tourists to savor Uganda’s environment.

Queen Elizabeth National Park – The Queen Elizabeth The Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for most safaris in Uganda, has been designated a Biosphere Reserve for Humanity under UNESCO auspices. Queen Elizabeth covers 2,056 sq. km and includes ecosystems, from semi-deciduous tropical forest to green meadows, savannah and swamps. The park, in the western arm of the Great East African Rift Valley is the home of the Uganda Kob, the famous tree-climbing Ishasha lions as well as , other hippos, buffalo, antelope species, elephant, baboons and chimpanzees. There are over 500 species of birds that have been recorded, making the park a magnet for bird watchers.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – The park with its dense ground cover of vines and shrubs is home to the world famous mountain gorillas, of which they are less than 600 still left in the entire world. Gorilla permits are required for tracking the gorillas and it is, therefore, advisable to make reservations at least three months in advance. Bwindi is one of the richest areas for flora in Eastern Africa. The forest is also sanctuary for Columbus monkeys, chimpanzees and many bird types including some endangered species.

Mgahinga Gorilla – This is yet another haven for the persecuted mountain gorilla. Located on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains, in the extreme southwest corner of Uganda, the park has been set aside to provide a secure habitat for the gorillas. However, besides the gorillas, other wildlife may also be viewed including the leopard, giant forest hog, bushbuck, buffalo, and golden monkey. The summit of Mount Muhavura (4,127 m) has a small crater lake.

Kibale Forest National Park – The rainforest is situated to the north-east of Queen Elizabeth National Park. In addition to forest, there are also areas of grassland and swamp. The park is noted for its primate population – 13 different species inhabit the park including many families of chimpanzees and several types of Columbus monkeys. Bushbuck, waterbuck, duiker and giant forest hog may also be seen. The forests and the grasslands support abundant bird life – almost 300 species have been identified and 144 types of butterfly.

Kidepo National Park – Kidepo Valley National park is located in Kaabong District, in the northeastern corner of Uganda. The park is located approximately 220 kilometres (140 mi), by road northwest of Moroto, the largest town in the sub-region. Its location is approximately 520 kilometres (320 mi), by road, northeast of Kampala, Uganda’s capital and largest city.

The northwestern boundary of the park runs along the international frontier with South Sudan and abuts against the Kidepo Game Reserve.. It is inhabited by various wildlife including elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, cheetah, giraffe, various antelope species, baboon, bushbaby and over 200 species of bird. Two game viewing routes connect the rest camp with the prime wildlife areas near the Winwing River and the rock escarpment to the southwest. On the park’s northern borders are the Kananorok Hot Springs. In 2013, it was nominated as Africa’s leading National Park by travel wards

Mount Elgon – This is an extinct volcano located on Uganda’s eastern border. The mountain boasts numerous interesting features including gorges, ancient caves, water falls and hot springs. Birdlife is abundant on the mountain although various wildlife may also be encountered.

Semuliki National Park – This is the only park in Uganda to be composed primarily of tropical lowland forest. The forest is very dense and quite flat, creating a startling contrast to the rugged Rwenzori Mountains nearby. The Semliki River attracts many animals. The park is home to eight species of primate, 400 birds and 300 butterfly species. Elephant, buffalo, leopard, civet, bushbaby and flying squirrels are also found.

Lake Mburo National Park – Situated between the towns of Masaka and Mbarara, this comparatively small park (371 sq. km) is composed primarily of grassland, wetland and acacia woodland. At the centre lies the Lake Mburo, which together with 14 other lakes, forms part of an extensive wetland area. Animals to be found in the park include the impala, eland, rock hyrax, zebra, waterbuck, buffalo, warthog, leopard, civet, hyena, hippo, and crocodile. There are also over 357 species of birds including the marabou stock and the crowned crane.

Rwenzori Mountains –The mist-shrouded peaks of the Mountains of the Moon provide a stunning backdrop to this magnificent park, located on Uganda’s western border. In the centre of the range, some of the peaks are permanently covered in snow and glaciers, while the lower slopes are covered with dense forests.

Here is the third highest mountain in Africa, Mt. Magherita, which rises to 5,100 metres above sea level. Walking tours in the foothills are a feature, although only the experienced and fit should attempt an ascent on the peaks, which rival the Alps in difficulty.

Some of the wildlife to be found in the mountains include the chimpanzees, along with the blue monkey, hyrax, giant forest hog and many unique bird species such as the Rwenzori touraco, the francolin and the olive pigeon.
The Rwenzoris are the legendary “Mountains of the moon”, a reflection of the mist-shrouded mountains of this rugged massif that tower almost 4,000 m above the Albertine Rift Valley, making them visible from great distances. These mountains offer a unique and pristine landscape of alpine vegetation studded with charismatic giant lobelias, groundsels, and heathers which have been called “Africa’s botanical big game”.

The combination of spectacular snow-capped peaks, glaciers, V-shaped valleys, fast flowing rivers with magnificent waterfalls, clear blue lakes and unique flora contributes to the area’s exceptional natural beauty.

Significant species include the giant heathers, groundsels, lobelias and other endemics. In terms of fauna, the Rwenzoris have been recognised as an Important Bird Area with 217 bird species recorded to date, a number expected to increase as the park becomes better surveyed. The montane forests are also a home to threatened species such as the African forest elephant, eastern chimpanzee and l’Hoest’s monkey. The endangered Rwenzori black-fronted or red duiker, believed to be a very localized subspecies or possibly a separate species, appears to be restricted to the Park.

Kampala City

Myuganda

November 4, 2016

Kampala is the largest city and capital of the republic of Uganda divided into five municipal division. These include; Kampala Central Division, Kawempe Division, Makindye Division, Nakawa Division and Lubaga Division.

The city is run jointly by the Executive Director who is appointed by the president and oversees the administrative activities of the city and the Lord Mayor who chairs the Kampala City Council Authority (KCCA) The history of Kampala Mutesa I, the Kabaka (King) of Buganda, had chosen the area that was to become Kampala as one of his favorite hunting grounds. The area was made up of hills and wetlands. It was an ideal breeding ground for various wild animls, particularly a species of antelope, the impala , in whose name the city was named Kampala (the area of Impalas).

The city grew as the capital of the Buganda kingdom, from which several buildings survive, including the Kasubi Tombs (built in 1881), the Lubiri Palace, the Buganda Parliament and the Buganda Court of Justice. Severely damaged in the Uganda-Tanzania War, the city has since then been rebuilt with constructions of new buildings including hotels, banks, shopping malls, educational institutions, hospitals and improvement of war torn buildings and infrastructure. Traditionally, Kampala was a city of seven hills, but over time it has come to have a lot more. Kampala was initially built on seven hills, although this is now the city has spread over several hills and villages beyond Kampala boundaries.
The earliest hills included;

The first hill in historical importance is Kasubi Hill, which is where the Kasubi Tombs where the deacsed kings of Buganda are buried.

Mengo Hill where the present Lubiri (Kabaka’s Palace) is and the Headquarters of the Buganda Court of Justice and of the Lukiiko, Bugand’s Parliament (Bulange).

Kibuli Hill, which is home to the Kibuli Mosque. Islam was brought to Uganda before the Christian missionaries came.

Namirembe Hill, home to the Namirembe Anglican Cathedral. The Protestants were the first of the Christian Missions to arrive.

Lubaga Hill, where the Rubaga Catholic Cathedral is, and was the headquarters of the White Fathers.

Nsambya Hill, was the Headquarters of the Mill Hill Mission. It now houses Nsambya Hospital.

Kampala Hill, (also known as Old Kampala), the hill of the Impala is where the ruins of Lugard’s Fort were. However, the ruins were recently destroyed (2003), when the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) started on reconstruction of a 15,000-seater mosque on land that included the fort. The mosque was begun by Idi Amin but was never completed. The fort was then re-located to a nearby area (a new and similar one constructed), a move that has since been a source of controversy between The Historic Buildings Conservation Trust (HBCT) of Uganda and the UMSC. The UMSC was given the gazetted land as a gift by President Idi Amin in 1972 during its inauguration. This hill is where Kampala got its name.

The city spread to Nakasero Hill where the administrative centre and the wealthiest residential area is. Nakasero is also the location of the most upscale hotels in the city including:

The Grand Imperial Hotel
The Kampala Speke Hotel
The Kampala Sheraton Hotel
The Kampala Hilton Hotel
The Kampala Serena Hotel
The Imperial Royale Hotel
The Kampala Intercontinental

Makindye Division incorporating Kibuli, Tank Hill and Makindye now has over 300,000 residents. Medical provision in this part of town, being more recently developed, is limited. Hospitals include Kibuli Hospital, St. Francis Hospital Nsambya and the International Hospital Kampala (IHK).

Philanthropic health services are provided by Hope Clinic Lukuli situated between Tank Hill, Makindye and Konge.Kololo Hill to the east of Nakasero, is the highest hill in the city, at 1,300 metres (4,300 ft) above sea level.

The Uganda Museum is located at the foot of Kololo Hill in the neighborhood called Kamwokya. Other features of the city include the Uganda Museum, Ugandan National Theatre, Nakasero Market and St. Balikuddembe Market (formerly Owino Market). Kampala is also known for its nightlife, which includes several casinos, notably Casino Simba in the Garden City shopping center, Kampala Casino and Mayfair Casino.

Entebbe International Airport is located at Entebbe, 35 miles (56 km) away, while Port Bell on the shores of Lake Victoria is 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) away. Climate Kampala features a tropical wet and dry climate, however due to city’s higher altitudes, average temperatures are noticeably cooler than what is typically seen in other cities with this type of climate. Kampala seldom gets very hot during the course of the year; the warmest month is January.

Another facet of Kampala’s weather is that it features two distinct wet seasons. There is a lengthy rainy season from August through December and another shorter rainy season that begins in February and lasts through June. However, the shorter rainy season sees substantially heavier rainfall per month, with the month of April typically seeing the heaviest amount of precipitation at an average of around 175 mm of rain.

Uganda Demorgraphy

Myuganda

November 4, 2016

Annual population growth rate (2009 estimation): 3.3%. Ethnic groups: Baganda, Banyankole, Bahima, Bakiga, Banyarwanda, Bunyoro, Batoro, Langi, Acholi, Lugbara, Karamojong, Basoga, Bagisu, and others. Religions: Christian 85%, Muslim 12%, other 3%. Languages: English (official), Swahili, Luganda, Lunyankore and numerous other local languages. Education: Attendance (2008; primary school completion rate)–56%. Literacy (2003-2008)–74%. Health (2009 estimation.): Infant mortality rate–79.4/1,000. Life expectancy–52.7 yrs.

The Baganda are the largest ethnic group in Uganda and comprise approximately 17% of the population. Individual ethnic groups in the southwest include the Banyankole and Bahima (10%), the Bakiga (7%), the Banyarwanda (6%), the Bunyoro (3%), and the Batoro (3%). Residents of the north include the Langi (6%) and the Acholi (5%). In the northwest are the Lugbara (4%). The Karimajong (2%) live in the considerably drier, largely pastoral territory in the northeast. Ethnic groups in the east include the Basoga (8%) and the Bagisu (5%).

Uganda Population

Myuganda

November 4, 2016

Uganda’s population is predominately rural, and its population density is highest in the southern regions. Asians constituted the largest non-indigenous ethnic group in Uganda until 1972, when the Idi Amin regime expelled 50,000 Asians who had been engaged in trade, industry, and various professions. After Amin’s overthrow in 1979, Asians slowly began returning, but Uganda’s Asian population has never reached its pre-1972 numbers.