Africa Travel Blog

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  • Explore Rwanda on Your Own with Self Drive Rwanda

    There are a million reasons why we stand out from a thousand car rental companies that are widely distributed in and around Rwanda. Renting a car from Self Drive Rwanda gets you opportunity to book your dream car online while you sit back home one good reason why we feature among a few exceptional and the most preferred car rental companies in Rwanda. Booking a car online allows you reserve that one comfortable safari car and upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you are handed over the keys or depending on the agreed area of pick up and you start your road trip to your dream destination in Rwanda. Reserving a car with us online enables you avoid the waiting queues and crowds on public transportation.

    Our car rental services meet travelers’ needs no matter which class you belong or the kind of safari you intend to embark. We cover all travelers’ demands whether you plan to set off on a family trip, self-drive tour, guided safaris or as a group, business and conference. We have wide range of cars to rent in Rwanda for your self-drive tour and they include Toyota Rav4, Safari Land Cruiser, Land Cruiser TZ, Super custom, Land Cruiser Hard Top, Toyota Land Cruiser,

    Renting a car with us means you get value for your money and above all, we rate among a few car rentals in Rwanda with exceptional customer care service one trait that has positioned us in car hire market as one of the best car rental companies. When it comes to customer care service, we are the best and that is why you need to be part of this. Plan your trip with us and we shall get you out of that stressful journey of planning for a safari in Rwanda. By booking a car from us before setting off for actual trip in Rwanda means you will be presented that dream car for your road trip up on arrival or at agreed point of pick up. In other words, you won’t have any stress of how you shall connect from the airport to a hotel or destination in Rwanda.

    With many car rental companies that are distributed in and around Rwanda plus other transport options that take travelers around Kigali as well as other tourist sites, we are a unique car hire agency with good reputation a good reason we have kept in the car rental market for that long. We are registered and this means we are a recognized car rental company, trust worthy a reason you need not to miss our excellent services while on Rwanda safari. Renting a car with us gets you a great opportunity to explore different parts, tourist sites including genocide sites, national parks as well as take part in mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, bird watching to mention but a few.

    For long, we have featured as the most credible car rental agency in Rwanda that gets you a chance to explore the hidden treasures of this magical destination on self-drive or guided tours. Our exceptional four wheel drive safari cars are very comfortable and favorable for all kinds of terrains. Rent a car and driver from us and we take you through magical encounters with mountain gorillas, golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park, chimpanzees in Nyungwe National Park and Gishwati-Mukura National Park or catch a glimpse at the big five game in Akagera National Park which is the only savanna park in Rwanda. We also take you through Kigali city tour to explore different tourist sites at pocket friendly price.

    Other reasons include;

    • Flexible pick up and drop off
    • Full insurance
    • 24 hour assistance-so do not worry in case of car breakdown or recovery
    • Tour experts-our driver guides are very experienced, knowledgeable and they will avail you that information you need while on holiday in Rwanda.
    • Rent your dream car at a pocket friendly price
    • Our car rentals are well serviced

  • 5 Unusual Animals in Africa

    Africa is the land where many great and wild animals live. Many people from Africa are used to seeing different kinds of animals that those of us who live in the city only see on TV. Because people are so used to wild animals in Africa, they even adopt some of them as pets. These animals are so rare and unusual that you won’t even consider having them as a pet of your own.

    Hyena
    Why is the hyena different from other wild animals? Why is it one of the most dangerous animals in the world? The hyena is very different from other wild animals and is also one of the most dangerous animals in the world. It’s the only animal that dares to chase a lion off from its own prey. Hyenas come from the hyaenidae family which is divided into 4 groups. First is the striped hyena or the Hyaena Hyaena, the laughing spotted hyenas or crocuta crocuta which are found in most African regions, the brown hyena or parahyaena brunnea and the aardwolf Proteles cristatus. The hyenas are still part of the world’s great life cycle as well as the forests, deserts and plains. They clean up all that’s left by other animals from their kill making the environment cleaner.

    African Rock Phyton
    This is a native in the sub Saharan part of Africa and is one of the seven python species. These snakes are non venomous making it safer for them to be pets but they are also the largest snake found in Africa. It’s called phyton sebae which was derived from the Greek mythology as reference for a huge serpent. Elephants are often in contact with these wild snakes but lions are scared of them. The African Rock Phyton is classified into two sub species. The first one was identified by a German naturalist named Johann Friedrich Gmelin on 1788 and the other one was identified by Sir Andrew Smith, the father of South African Zoology on 1833.

    Kudu
    The kudu is one of the most dangerous animals in Africa with its big horns and massive body. They inhabit the Maasai Steppe and are great animals that blend with nature and stealth that conceal their movements along the bushes, thickets and forests. It’s also one of the greatest animals with a high survival rate compared to impalas or gazelles that have speed but are brought down easily by other animals.

    Lions
    This is th most dangerous animal in Africa but is also the most photographed ones by tourists who goes to African Safaris. Hunting comes naturally for these animals and they do not let a prey go that easily. They are full of pride and their roar is enough to give anyone the chills. Despite of them being scary, these lions are also very beautiful creatures that grace us with their wonderful mane and beautiful body structure. They are also loving to their families and you will often see them with their lioness or playing with their cubs. Vacuums for pet cats may be useful but still, it’s not enough when you’re taking care of this large cat.

  • Review: Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

    My husband and I are at that age now, where we don’t want our vacations to be a series of parties 24/7. Over the last few years, we have picked places which are both adventurous and scenic. However, neither of us would have ever considered taking a safari. To us, a safari was something exclusive to the blood thirsty ultra rich, in countries unsafe for the average person. However, one of my co-workers mentioned her sister was doing her honeymoon in Uganda. They were going to do a two week photo safari on a local animal preserve, which studied gorillas. The more she told me about the trip, the more I became intrigued.

    When I got home that night I did a search a for Gorilla Tours, and sure enough I quickly found a website which had packages for tracking and observing gorillas, as well as other exotic animals. After pouring over the website I was hooked on the idea of doing this as our next vacation. It took a few months to put the trip together, but we finally did our Gorilla Tour. photographing the mountain gorillas in Africa is one of the most adventurous thing you can do while enjoying your safari holiday.

    I’m happy to say it was an excellent time for both of us. Our tour group and guides were wonderful companions and the pictures we took! The photos we took during our 4 Days Gorilla Trekking Trip to Bwindi Forest look like they came straight of a magazine! I could go on for hours talking about the wonderful time we had.

    How to Plan a Perfect Gorilla Trek in Uganda

    Here are some important things that you should consider to plan a perfect safari in Uganda, the Pearl of Africa.

  • Planning a Gorilla Trekking Safari

    Are you looking to taking a gorilla safari in Africa? A trip to the gorillas is one of the best adventures one can ever take on the African continent. This lifetime experience can be taken in a few destinations in Africa; Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Unlike other usual safaris, a gorilla safari requires proper planning early well in advance and it is advisable to book such a kind of trip early enough from a reliable tour operator. Here are some of the useful information that you need to know about planning a gorilla trek in Africa;

    Best Time to Visit Gorillas

    Many travelers wonder about the best time to visit the mountain gorillas in Africa. Though the gorillas can be visited any time of the year, many travelers opt to visit the mountain gorillas during the dry season. Remember Uganda and Rwanda experience two distinct seasons; the rainy season and the dry season. April to May and November are the rainiest months, so most people avoid travel at these times. Remember there is a shift in seasons and please note that it can rain anytime of the year.

    NB: If you would like to save on a gorilla trek in Uganda, you can use the off peak season discount rates where gorilla permits are sold at USD350 saving USD250 on every permit.

    Physical Fitness

    A gorilla trek is one of the active adventures that requires a good level of fitness. On my last trek, i saw a lady who failed to meet the gorillas in the wild. Before booking a gorilla tour, make sure that you have a sensible level of fitness and a willingness to hike uphills searching for the gentle giants. Though many travelers always wonder whether Uganda or Rwanda offers easier treks, am sure that the ease of trekking depends on your level of fitness. A real gorilla trek involves climbing up muddy slopes and through varied vegetation and terrain. Gorillas live in montane forest, so treks to see them are at higher altitude.

    Booking Gorilla Permits

    It is required to book a gorilla permit in order to be able to visit the gorillas in the wild. There are several habituated groups of mountain gorillas in various national parks in Africa. Uganda has 12 habituated gorilla families that are open for mountain gorilla tourism; 11 groups in Bwindi and 1 group at Mgahinga National Park while Rwanda has 10 habituated gorilla groups. Only eight visitors are allowed to visit a gorilla group and thus only 8 gorilla permits are available for sale to tourists per day. This makes the gorilla permits to be extremely limited and must be booked early enough most especially if you are intending to travel during the peak season; June – September and December.

    many travelers book their permits a year in advance and thus it is advisable to secure a gorilla permit at least 4 months before the date you intend to travel. There are several local tour operators who can secure permits.

    The gorilla permits currently cost around US$600 per person for foreign tourists, USD 475 for non residents in Uganda with valid work permits and 700$ in Rwanda, 500$ for foreign residents. A gorilla permit entitles you to one hour watching and photographing the mountain gorillas. This money goes towards conservation of the habitat, anti-poaching efforts and education of the local communities.

    Success Rate for Meeting the Gorillas

    The mountain gorillas live in their wild natural habitat so it’s not a guarantee that there is 100% success of meeting them. However based on experience, the chance to see gorillas in their natural habitat is 99% all year round. Few travelers fail to see the gorillas and this is much due to their psychical unfitness. In case you don’t see the gorillas on a trek, there is a policy in both Uganda and Rwanda whre you will track another gorilla group the next day.

    To help ensure this, trackers set off at dawn to locate the gorilla groups and radio their GPS co-ordinates to the park headquarters, so when you set off on your trek with your guide, you know where you are headed. The trackers stay with the gorillas even if they are moving.

    Clothing for a Gorilla Trek

    For the safety of your camera, a waterproofed day pack is crucial. Pack water bottles and snacks as well. For a small fee, porters can be hired to carry your day pack and help you up the steeper slopes.

    Waterproof jacket is essential because when setting out you should expect to get muddy and rained on. Wear long trousers to guard your legs against nettles and a T-shirt with a long-sleeved shirt over the top. The exertion will keep you warm, so layers are best.

    Age Requirements

    Is there A Minimum Or Maximum Age To Visit The Gorillas?

    Gorilla tracking is done by people with 16 years and above and there’s no flexibility to this rule. This is the same for both Rwanda and Uganda and it’s enforced by the national parks. There is no upper age limit!

    Will This Be Covered By My Travel Insurance?

    It’s definitely worth checking that your travel insurance does cover you for gorilla trekking as they may require an additional premium to be paid.

  • Benefits of a Messenger Bag When Traveling Africa

    Messenger bags were first made for bike messengers and it was designed to carry a lot of things that carry around to do their job. These bags are spacious and made to be carried around comfortably especially when you are cycling. These bags are durable and made to be worn for hours of walking around which makes them perfect for travelling. Many tourists can be spotted sporting different kinds of Messenger bags when they go on city tours where they spend most of their time walking.

    When you travel to Africa, you have to expect to experience lots of walking around; especially if you go want to explore the place. This requires proper gear that offers durability and comfort to withstand all of the activities. This is where Messenger bags come in. They are perfect for your African escapade because it offers ease so you can walk around for hours with it and it also is very sturdy that it won’t easily be damaged.

    If you are still thinking twice about bring a messenger bag for your African trip, here are some benefits that might help convince you.

    Comfort

    Messenger bags are made to be worn around the body leaving you with both hands free. This can prove to be very useful especially when you want to go out to the Safari. Messenger bags are also made with breathable and lightweight materials so you won’t have to carry a heavy bag around for your trip. Some messenger bags even have accessories that prevent you from getting sweaty while carrying them around your back.

    Easy Access

    Most messenger bags come with external pockets that you can easily access when you need something. This is an advantage because you can put important things that you always use inside these pockets. The best thing about external pockets is that you don’t have to open the bag to get something inside it. For trips, you can put your mobile phone and cameras on the external pockets because these are things that you are probably going to use most. You can also put a pen and paper to write things down if you are researching.

    Durability

    The best messenger bags are made with top quality materials that are sure to withstand any kind of activity that you use it in. The stitches are also made to carry heavy loads without unraveling. They are also secured with high quality Velcro tab to make sure that your bag is always secure and protected. Most messenger bags are also waterproof so you can be sure that your personal belongings are safe even if it rains or you need to go through a body of water.

    Storage

    Messenger bags are spacious and they allow many items to be stored inside. This is good for a trip so you don’t have to bring a lot of bags with you. You can fit all of your items in one big messenger bag and then use it as a carry-on for your flight and use it for your tour as well.

  • 12 Best Things to Do in Rwanda According to Experts in 2019

    Rwanda is one of the best places to visit on the African continent. Located in east-central Africa, Rwanda is surrounded by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, Tanzania, and Burundi. Comparable to the size of Maryland, Rwanda is the best place for gorilla safaris, trips to see the endangered mountain gorillas in the Volcanoes National Park . The country is characterized with steep mountains and deep valleys cover most of the country. Apart from the gorillas, the country has several other attractions which include Lake Kivu the highest lake located at an altitude of 4,829 ft (1,472 m), the Virunga Mountains, which include the volcano Karisimbi (14,187 ft; 4,324 m), Nyungwe Forest with its 13 primate species, Akagera National Park, unique cultural, traditional and historical attractions including the 8 genocide memorial sites. A discerning traveler to Rwanda has plenty of things to do in this relatively small country. Here are the most popular things to do while on holiday in Rwanda;

    1. Gorilla Tracking

    This is the most popular adventure activity that brings most tourists to Rwanda. This world class adventure is done in the Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda. To engage in this adventure you have to secure a gorilla permit. Currently a gorilla permit goes for USD1500 per person per trek. You can book a gorilla permit through a local tour operator or at the Rwanda Development Board authorities in Kigali.

    2. Chimpanzee tracking

    This is regarded as one of the most interesting and must do activity while in Rwanda, this activity is carried out in Rwanda’s second known park that’s Nyungwe forest national park which is located in the south-western part of Rwanda a drive of about 6 Hrs 30 minutes. This park is known for the highest concentration of primate species not only in the east but also in central Africa. The most among all is the chimpanzee the closest relative of man sharing almost 98% of human DNA. Chimps are fabulous fan to watch as they play in fruitful trees while doing their daily activities such as playing, making nest, feeding among other, and chimp tracking begins very early in the morning with a cup of tea/cotton followed with a transfer to the park headquarters for a short briefing about the dos and don’ts while with the chimps, then after you will be transferred to the forest to begin the activity posibly one of the most exciting activities at the park. Other primate species found in Nyungwe forest national park include baboons, black and white colobus monkeys, civet monkey, grey checked mangabeys, red tailed monkey just to mention but a few. Watching all these primate species in their natural habitat is regarded as a breathtaking moment in life.

    3. Canopy Walk in Nyungwe Forest

    This activity is amazing, moving through the forest up is regarded thrilling as canopy walk allows visitors to view the vast thick forest; birds, butterflies and different primates most commonly seen are chimpanzees and blue monkeys that dwell higher levels of the forest in a close range the canopy walk normally go to 3-5 hours while viewing the forest dwellers in a close range.

    4. Game viewing and wildlife safaris

    Would you like a traditional safari in Rwanda? Just travel to Akagera National Park, a savanna national park in Eastern Rwanda. Located in a distance of about 2 hours and 30 minutes, this is one of the best national parks for game viewing in Africa. If you’re interested in viewing animals in their national setting Akagera national park is the only option as it houses a very big number of wildlife species ranging from the big five to small animals like buffaloes, elephant , lion, hippos, leopard, other small species include zebra, various species of antelopes, spotted hyena crocodiles, waterbuck, warthogs the list is endless. Games drive can be done either in the morning, afternoon or in the evening depending on the traveler’s interest and the time availability. Hippos and crocodiles can be seen while on a boat cruise on the lake lhema.

    5. Kigali City Tour

    Kigali is Rwanda’s capital and largest city it serves as a marketing centre, with an incredible variety of flowering trees and shrubs from various points on the ridge and the city is located within the heart of Rwanda. While on Kigali city tour you can visit the kigali Genocide Memorial sites where hundred of thousand of people where murdered, ounce you visit this site and told the story you can’t fail to feel tears in your throats, visit also cultural performances at the Rwanda National Ballet, still on city tour you can visit the market places among other interesting places in Kigali.

    6. Boat rides on Lake Ihema with in Akagera National Park and also on Lake Kivu, this is yet another interesting activities done in Rwanda, as the rides are worth as they offer an opportunity to spot hippos, crocodiles, warthogs, and a good number of bird species like the malachite & pied kingfisher, blue headed coucal, mash flycatcher and many more.boat cruise on lake Ihema go to up to 2 hours exploring Rwanda on a boat it’s really a can’t miss activity while in Rwanda

    7. Visiting the National Museum in Butare

    There are several museums in Rwanda. However a visit to the National Museum in Butare is  quite a special activity. The visit will give you an insight into the history of Rwanda as well as its antiquities. Built by the Belgian Colonial Government, this museum is a good source of information and history of the country.

    8. Visiting the Old King’s Palace in Nyanza

    9. Botanical gardens and Art craft shops in Nyanza

    10. Bird watching

    Rwanda some times it’s called a birder’s paradise so those interested in this activity this is the chance, it has very many species of birds ranging from savanna to water birds, Rwanda has very many kin birder viewers who are not only bird lovers but also passionate in the activity. Bird watching can begin either in morning, afternoon or in the evening depending on the time availability.

    11. Forest walks

    You can enjoy forest walks within Nyungwe and Parc Nationale Des Volcanoes. These two forests offer an opportunity to view various species of primates and birds on foot in their natural habitat guided by tour guides it can go up to 3-6 hours in the forest.

    12. Community Walk

    If you want to know more about the people of Rwanda community walk is so rewording. You can get entertainment from the local people (Batwa) through their cultural dance and songs and these people can also entertain you how they have managed to live in the area.

  • Top 5 Wildlife Safari Experiences in Africa

    Planning to go on an African safari? There are lots of safaris on offer from different tour operators. Given that most travelers look for wildlife safaris in Africa? Here are top wildlife safari experiences that you should seek for from Africa;

    1. The Great Migration

    There’s no safari experience that is quite interesting like the Great Migration. Every year, this unique phenomena happens in Serengeti and Masai Mara National Park where millions of zebras, wildebeests and other antelopes gather up their young to migrate across the plains of East Africa.

    These wild animals move from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve, in search of better grazing. Waiting for them as they cross the Mara River is one of the world’s spectacle. This migration is a year-round process that never stops. They move from south to north and back again, in a never ending loop. There are updates about the wildebeest migrations!

    River crossings are especially dangerous and spectacular to witness. Herds gather in their thousands to forge the waters of the Grumeti River in Tanzania and the Mara River in Kenya – both with strong currents and lurking crocodiles. Crocodile kills and hordes of panicked animals mean that the crossings are not for the faint-heartened however, they undoubtedly offer some of Africa’s most dramatic wildlife encounters.

    These migrating herds also attract some of the continent’s most renowned predators, ensuring that if travelers are following the Great Migration, big cats, crocodiles, and hyenas will never be too far behind. The Great Migration is by far the greatest mass movement of land mammals on the entire globe and has been listed as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

    2. Gorilla Trekking

    Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! This memorable adventure is one of the most thrilling wildlife encounters that you could ever take in the wild. Well regulated by ecotourism, gorilla trekking is an amazing adventure that you can take in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    There are two most popular national parks for gorilla trekking; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. Other destinations for gorilla trekking are Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda and the Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    To meet these great apes, it is very important to book a gorilla permit in time. Gorilla permits cost USD 600 per person in Uganda, USD 1500 per person in Rwanda and USD 400 per person in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    3. The Big Five

    The Big 5 are a group of mammals which are endemic to Africa, and are said to be the hardest to hunt on foot. Whilst you won’t be doing this, it’s still fun to try and spot them. They are the lion, cheetah, cape buffalo, elephant and rhino. The latter unfortunately may be the hardest to find due to its decline in numbers.

    Spotting the big five is the ultimate goal for many travelers. I would personally recommend not to expect to spot all five, since many travelers haven’t seen them all, and then at least you will be surprised if and when you do see them all.

    Plus, there are so many other animals worth spotting! I personally can’t wait to see some giraffe or a hippo!

  • 5 Top Birding Sites in Uganda

    Some of the travelers who annually visit Uganda are more interested in doing the birding activity. For every traveler wishing to go on a birding safari, this article unveils the best birding sites in Uganda that you should consider most:

    Semuliki National Park & Reserve

    Semuliki, in western Uganda, is arguably the best birding site in Uganda, and it the main reason as to why the Park is referred to as a ‘’True Birders’ Haven’’ – as the Park comprises of almost every unique African bird species. Though the Park’s main attraction is the pair of hot springs – male and female, found near the Park office at Sempaya, it is a unique destination for all birders and the birding highlights include Albertine Rift Endemics such as; the dwarf honey guide and purple-breasted sunbirds; 35 Congo-Guinea biome species found nowhere else in East Africa, including black dwarf hornbill, Congo serpent eagle, Nkulengu rail, Gabon woodpecker; and other species with very limited ranges such as; white-tailed hornbill, capuchin babbler, blue-headed crested flycatcher and the orange weaver.

    The other amazing thing in this Park, besides unique bird watching, is the pair of hot springs of which the female hot spring called ‘’Nyansimbi’’, which means; the female ancestors, is a boiling geyser that spurts bubbling water and steam up to two meters high. Visitors can therefore cook eggs and plantains in the boiling pools that surround the central spout.

    Kidepo Valley National Park

    Nestled in Uganda’s distant north-eastern corner, Kidepo is also referred to as the ‘’True African Wilderness’’ due to its scenic landscape and varied wildlife, and arguably the Park is one of Uganda’s best and mostly explored protected areas. The Park is best known for its natural unrivalled beauty and protecting a varied wildlife, but more fascinating is that the Park is a home to almost 500 bird species, thus making it the second place to hold the largest number of bird species in Uganda, only next to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The experienced and professional ranger guides are available at Apoka to assist you to locate and identify birdlife in the Park’s various habitats. On addition to bird watching, you will also be in a perfect place to enjoy the game viewing activity as the Park inhabits almost every African wildlife species, such as; African lions, Cape buffaloes, African leopards, African elephants, Rothschild’s giraffes, Zebras, Elands, Cheetahs, wild dogs, Jackson’s hartebeest, spotted and stripped hyenas, bat-eared foxes, Oribi, Okapis, Topis, Gazelles, and many others.

    Queen Elizabeth National Park

    Perched in the western parts of Uganda spanning the districts of; Kasese, Kamwenge, Rubirizi, and Rukungiri, the Park is definitely among the heavily visited ones in Uganda, of which; it is mostly renowned for its amazing tree climbing lions and the spectacular Kazinga channel – home to an abundance of wildlife. The birding activities overlap with the wildlife viewing locations in the Park and the highlights include; easy sightings of resident and migratory water birds on the Kazinga channel; spectacular seasonal congregations of flamingoes on the Kyambura and Katwe soda lakes; careful searches for rare and restricted range forest species in Maramagambo forest; plus the memorable shoebill sightings on the remote Lake Edward flats in Ishasha sector – residence to the tree climbing lions. The Park inhabits the largest population of bird species in Uganda, with over 600 bird species.

    Murchison Falls National Park

    Residing at the northern end of the Albertine Rift Valley where the sweeping Bunyoro escarpment merges into a vast, palm-dotted savanna, Murchison Falls National Park is the largest national park in Uganda and its existence is basically determined by the majestic Murchison Falls. The Park conducts a variety of activities such as; game viewing, boat cruises, sport fishing, cultural encounters, hot air balloon safaris, chimpanzee tracking, and bird watching. It is an ideal destination for birders – protecting over 451 bird species, hence making it one of the destinations in Uganda with the largest number of bird species, including the water birds such as; the rare shoe-billed stork, dwarf kingfisher, Goliath heron, white-thighed hornbill and great blue turaco. A journey to or from the MFNP is very scenic and there is an optional visit to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – the only home to the wild rhinos in Uganda, thus being able to view all the Arica’s big five (Lions, Elephants, Leopards, Rhinos, and Buffaloes), whereby the others will all be spotted from Murchison Falls National Park. For birders to view the many bird species should involve in game drives, launch trips/boat cruises and forest walks to encounter various bird species in abundance – as everything in the Park is there in abundance, especially wildlife species and bird species.

    Mabamba Bay Wetland

    The wetland is nestled on the edge of Lake Victoria – northwest of the Entebbe peninsular, and it is one of Uganda’s most important birding areas. The major bird species here include; shoebills, the blue swallow and the papyrus gonoleks. More special with bird watching activities at Mabamba is that; a birder can spot 60% of the total population of the bird species there, just within a single day thus being one of the most ideal destinations for bird watching activities in Africa. It is also the only destination in Africa where at any time of the day; a birder can spot the elusive shoebills.

    The wetland comprises of a total of 260 bird species and a birder can be able to spot almost 157 bird species within just a single day. Mabamba is definitely one of the strong holds for the migrant Blue Swallow – with over 100 individuals recorded every year. The amazing birding experience in Mabamba in not only at the swamp, but along the way, there are other birding spots with a variety of habitats, and after birding, one can opt to follow a woodland and savanna trail up to the sand mining quarry to increase on chances of other species apart from the wetland birds. The birding excursions in Mabamba are basically done on canoes through the small channels of marsh-filled water and lagoons – birds are best spotted in the morning hours though; they can be spotted throughout the entire day at any hours convenient for you.

    Other most recommendable important birding sites;

    The other popular birding sites in Uganda include; Budongo forest, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Mgahinga National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Entebbe Botanical Gardens, and Mabira forest, among others.

  • Guide to Visiting Uganda’s Mountain Gorillas

    In Uganda Mountain Gorillas are found in two National parks that is Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and are all situated in the southwestern region of Uganda, at rim of western arm of rift valley. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the oldest and the largest park covering an area of 331square kilometer of its low land.

    Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the tropical rain forests that survived in ancient time, is the famous Park that has gorilla trekking as the major tourist attraction in the world. With almost half of the mountain gorillas living in the forest, Bwindi is a favorite destination for gorilla trekking safaris in Africa.

    The less known Mgahinga Gorilla National park is the smallest Park in Uganda with high altitude ranging between 2227meter and 4127meter bordered with Rwanda and Congo. It was formed to protect the rare Mountain Gorillas that inhabits it’s dense forest  Mountain Gorilla trekking

    Gorilla trekking is one of most interesting and experiencing activity that everyone wishes to engage in, which involves walking in the wilderness of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in search of this great apes. Though it is enjoyable activity it requires someone to be reasonably fit before under taken to venture in the activity, Gorilla trekking can be done with maximum of 8 tourist booked per group per day.

    Apart from the mountain gorillas, there are many others things to see on a Uganda safari through Bwindi Forest. Tourists tracking the mountain gorillas can be able to view waterfalls, swamps, rivers and high level of wild life conservation. Elephants can be sometimes be sighted and this why you are escorted by armed rangers for your safety in case they charge at you. They scare shoot so that they do not get closer.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has 16 habituated Gorilla families which are found in its four different sectors. The Buhoma in the of the Park with four Gorilla families, Ruhija which is found in the eastern part of the park with four groups of Gorilla families, Rushaga and Nkuringo in the south with five and three Gorilla families respectively. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park has one Gorilla family  for Gorilla trekking.

    How to Book Gorilla Permits

    In Uganda, gorilla permits can only be sold at Uganda Wildlife Authority at a cost of $600 per person per trek for non-foreigners and East African Residents with a valid work permit at USD450 per person per trek. Contact Great Adventures Uganda to book for  you a Gorilla  permit in advance as they tend to sell out quickly especially in the high season months.

    Gorilla permits needs someone to book them at least three months in advance. Uganda wild life Authority allows advanced booking of up to two years as long as you pay deposit of 30% and the balance can be paid within 91days of trekking date.

    Beyond 91 days of clearing the balance of 70% is not allowed, you will have to pay 20% as surcharge beyond which deposit is made but without refund 80% of Gorilla permits. Tour operators can book Gorilla permits for that particular month on the day the booking opens.

    Booking of Gorilla permits can be done only on weekly days from Monday to Friday the first working days of the month and are not sold on the day the booking opens will be and it also limits on each tour operator will buy.

    If visitors fail to trek Gorillas due to weakness in the body will be advised by the warden who is in charge, they make refund of 50% tracking fee from Uganda Wild Life Authority, and this applies to only tourists who have ever experienced Gorilla trekking at least in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahiga Gorilla National Park.

    Uganda Wildlife Authority has decided that a tourist who fails to trek Gorillas due to the result of their movements   to the neighboring countries they will refund back his or her money in full amount of USD600.

    Tourist who have tracked the whole day and have failed to view or to track Gorillas for one reason will be refunded 75% of the tracking fee, and it can be done only at the Uganda Wild Life Authority headquarter through the reservation office.

    Uganda wild life Authority has retained the cancellation percentages to the visitors that’s to say ,0-8day of tracking no refund will be give,1-45day to tracking date will be 75% but refund of 25% to the client ,46-90 days of tracking it will be 50% and 91days and above to tracking date will be 25% and refund of 75% to the client.

    Gorilla permits must be paid currencies; Uganda shillings, US dollars, GB Pounds, Euros.

    The note must be $100 should be 2009 and above, those who can use  bank transfers with pay net of the bank charges, then those who will travelers cheques will have to present receipt of purchase of sales 81% charges.

  • 5 Top-Rated Adventure Trips in Rwanda

    Rwanda is one of the best destinations in Africa for Tourists. It’s has three National Parks including Volcanoes National park,  Akagera National Park and Nyungwe National Park on addition to other destinations like Kibuye town, Gisenyi Town, Kigali city, water bodies, forests and so on.

    Gorilla Trekking

    Among the top safaris in Rwanda include gorilla watching safaris that are done in Volcanoes National Park situated in northern part of Rwanda. Its takes approximately 1-2 hours drive from Kigali to the park making it one of the most accessible national parks in Rwanda. Within the Volcanoes National Park, gorilla trekking is conducted every day and the cost of gorilla trekking goes up to US$ 1500 per person. On the other hand, gorilla tourism earns Rwanda the largest foreign exchange. Currently, Volcanoes National Park hosts ten habituated Gorilla groups capable of receiving eighty visitors every day.

    Chimpanzee Tracking

    Chimpanzee tracking in Nyungwe National Park is the second sought-after adventure trip after gorilla trekking. Nyungwe National Park is the furthest of all Rwanda’s national parks. It takes about 8 hours to drive from Kigali to reach the forested park. Despite the distance it is worth visiting given the rich treasures. Nyungwe National Park also protects twelve other primate species including Vervet monkeys, Colobus Monkeys, Mona monkeys, Black and white colobus monkeys and so on.

    Canopy Walk

    Nyungwe Canopy Walk is approximately a two km walk to and from. The actual canopy walk is around 170 meters. Canopy walk starts with briefing by one of the guides at the park headquarters and then you proceed to the forest. There is a lot to see on this walk which includes several primates and birds plus many tree species. When you eventually reach the real starting point, you then start your hike on a trail hanging and connecting one hill to another. It is true that on canopy walk tour, you get to see several birds and other attractions like tree canopies, primates and so on.

    Walking on ropes and aluminum bars way high up there is so challenging that when clients complete this walk, they cerebrate so much. While on this canopy walk, you are advised not to look down as you may instead become scared. All you need to do is concentrate, look forward and remain focused to complete the walk. Nyungwe canopy walk is such an experience so unique and is next to trekking gorillas if you have the guts to do it.

    Kigali City Tour

    Visit Kigali Museum and learn the history of city and country’s pre-colonial and colonial period as well as the colonial masters in Rwanda.

    Visit the Genocide Memorial site, a grim reminder of a senseless massacre of innocent’s lives in 1994. Learn about Rwanda’s history from pre-colonial times to 1994 genocide and how Rwanda has dealt with that past. We continue with our tour and see the new developments in Rwanda; the recovery has been incredible, a testament to humankind’s resilience.

    Visit the Kimoronko Giant Market, the hand art and craft market of CAPLAKI and later we drop you on your destination in Kigali.

    Akagera Wildlife Safari

    The Akagera National Park is situated north east of Rwanda along the border with Tanzania. The game drive here are like opening a present and each game drive holds a full new surprise as nature reveals its treasures in form of wonders that are so scenic, the wildlife like buffalos, antelopes including; the elands, topis, Maasai girafffes, monkeys, savannah birds, civets, leopards, the hyenas, as well as the serval cats among others.