When it comes to the best safari destinations in Africa, Uganda features on the top list but you ever imagine or thought or asked yourself that why Uganda? There is a lot more in offer for you to enjoy while on African safari in Uganda. It best described as the “Pearl of Africa” and there are several reasons explaining this particular phrase today that ranks this country among the best destinations for visitors to realize their dreams. Would you like to explore Uganda? This Easter African country has lots of stunning landscapes, sceneries, wild animals, primates, national parks, waterfalls, culture and historical sites.
Below are some of the reasons why Uganda should be your must to visit destination in Africa.
- Peace and stability
Just like any destination, visitor safety and security is a very important factor in travel sector. Gone are the days of conflicts and civil wars, there has been prevailing peace and stability in the country that has attracted many travelers for safaris in its spectacular protected areas and other tourism sites. Kampala the capital city of Uganda is ranked among the safest cities in Africa. Even in the national parks, visitors are escorted by park ranger or they move with guide whether for mountain gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, bird watching, boat cruise or any thrilling adventures. Ugandans love their country and they are proud of it.
- Safaris
Uganda as a travel destinations in Africa offers refuge to ten protected areas and each one of them provides exceptional activities or when incorporated together for instance with birding. Uganda is famous for the rare mountain gorillas that thrive in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park which makes them the prime spots for gorilla trekking safaris. Mountain gorilla adventures in Uganda have become one of the most sought after experiences in Uganda and permits are sold at $600 per visitor. There are also 3 mountain protected areas which include the Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Mount Elgon National Park and Mgahinga National Park that also offers adventure lovers opportunity to enjoy breathtaking mountaineering in the country. You can also catch of the country’s most spectacular wildlife while on game drive along its savanna protected of Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park and Lake Mburo National Park. Enjoy launch cruise and spot fishing in Lake Mburo, Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Wide range of breathtaking adventures
Besides wildlife, Uganda is also famous for Mighty River Nile one of the longest rivers in the world. The might Nile provides excellent adventures which include grade six white water rafting, bungee jumping, canoeing, jet boating, kayaking, River surfing and many more. For trekkers and climbers, they can take hike to the snow capped and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon which comes with spectacular views of the equatorial mist while you are at its top. There is also Mount Elgon that you can also engage in breathtaking adventures.
- Wildlife
Uganda safaris largely depend on wildlife and if you are wildlife lover or nature enthusiast, this is the right place for you. Most of Uganda’s wildlife species are confined within the 10 national parks which also come with several habitats ranging from tropical rainforests, thickets, swamps, Lake Shores to savanna and vast savanna grassland. These favor variety of birdlife and mammal species in the country. Over 1060 bird species are inhabited within Uganda representing 11 percent of the world species 8 of them are endangered, 14 are vulnerable and seven are nearly threatened. There are over 343 mammals on record, 133 of which are large mammals and 210 are small.
- Relaxation
After your breathtaking adventure, there no need to worry where to go and chill around in Uganda. Visit the magical Lake Bunyonyi for yet the most exceptional views of the misty hills of Southwestern Uganda as you take a boat ride to one of its 29 islands that are confined in this stunning Lake and do not miss to sight some birds. The Ssese Islands are also available for you to have lifetime experience in any of 84 islands that make up Ssese islands in Lake Victoria. You can relax and chill around one of the white and sandy beaches as you enjoy the sun set down in the evening. The other site not to be is the Sipi falls in Eastern Uganda which will relieve all your stress of the day with stunning views of its surrounding, catch a glimpse of the coffee while touring the coffee farms or visit the banana plantations around.
- Cultural encounters
If you are searching for the most thrilling cultural encounters, search not further than the Batwa encounters. The Batwa pygmies are incredible humans on their own. They lived in the forest for more than 500000 years while hunting and gathering but left without causing any negative impact on the environment making them the forest dwellers. An encounter with these people is a dramatic experience of its kind that you shouldn’t miss after your mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park southwestern Uganda where you will also have lifetime experiences from the dances, performances and many more traditional practices. You can also visit the Karamojong Manyatta house or the exhibitions at Ndere cultural center, the Kasubi tomb site, Bahai temple, and Uganda martyrs shrine; as well you can also taste some of Uganda’s local fruits or take juice.
In conclusion, Uganda offers refuge to a number of attractions that are still unexploited. If you are planning your safaris to Africa, Uganda should be a must to visit destination in order to explore its magical natural wonders.
