Uganda is known to be a land locked country located across the equator in East Africa. Due to its geographical location, Uganda has got a tropical climate, with dry and rain seasons in a year. The north eastern parts, Karamoja Region experiences dry spells in its semi-arid Kidepo Valley National Park the true African Wilderness. Here is a complete guide to Uganda, the Pearl of Africa;
What to expect on your safari;
In western region where the altitudes are high, cold weather and the high amounts of rainfall are expected owing to tropical rain forests like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the large amounts of snow on the peaks of Rwenzori Mountains National Park.
Uganda is a country of lots of wildlife and culture and is referred to as the pearl of Africa. Uganda is well known for its mountain gorillas and most visitors would travel to this beautiful country mainly for gorilla safaris in Africa. There are 10 national parks and 13 wildlife reserves protecting diverse wildlife including more than 1000 species of birds and the big five animals There are also interesting geographical points such as the official source of the Nile the world’s longest river and Lake Victoria the largest fresh water lake with tropical islands.
Further than the wildlife and natural beauty, the people of Uganda are very friendly and so welcoming and their county is safe and secure for travelers. You can get a visa on arrival at Entebbe International Airport given your documents, apply online or at Uganda diplomatic embassy, thus traveling to Uganda is so hassle free. Kampala city is only 40km away from the airport.
When traveling to Uganda for the first time, you need to understand what to expect on the safari. You can land on information that is a little confusing about Uganda’s political situation. But in case you are dealing with the right tour operators, your search will pay off. But if dealing with the right kind of tour operators, your research will pay off. And you will arrive in Uganda aware of the culture, common words in local language and the nature of transportation.
How to book your safari to Uganda
In case you are planning a safari to Uganda, you can book the safari with a recognized tour operator or the travel agent. Always make sure that the agent you intend to deal with is registered and recognized. There are many tour companies in Uganda and you need one that is trust worthy for you to deal with. In most cases, they have cars for hire to help in connecting dreams.
How to get to Uganda
When you are thinking of a safari to Uganda, you don’t need to worry due to the many international and regional flights to help you get to magical country. The main airline to use include; Brussels, Kenya airways, British airways, KLM and Fly Dubai. There are other means of transport in Uganda including regional coaches/ buses to help you get to the pearl of Africa. You need a valid passport and visa to get to Uganda. To enter the parks of your choice, there are many car rentals for you to help you reach to your dream destination and they usually come with professional driver guides.
Best time to visit Uganda
Uganda can be visited at any time of the year. However, when planning for your safari, take note of the dry and wet season. The dry season is referred to as the best time for one to visit this magical destination and it starts from June to September and December to February. The wet season on the other hand is ideal on its own way especially for birders. This usually starts from March to May and from October to November.
What to pack for a safari to Uganda
In order to have a successful road trip in Uganda, you need to park appropriately. Depending on what your travel needs are, for the tourists on a gorilla trek, the key items not to miss out in your packing list includes the long sleeved shirts or t-shirt, hat, camera with no flash light, sweater, waterproof hiking boots, water, energy giving snacks, rain jacket or poncho a mention but a few.
Safety of the Visitor
Uganda like other stares in the world is not 100 % safe and safety starts with you. Avoid walking at night alone or in the dark corners in the city. In case of any need to eat something, avoid street food. There are many good restaurants or hotels for you to have food-this is just for your health as most of these street food may not be of high standard when it comes to hygiene.
Survival tips for first time travelers
Never show off your valuables like money, smart phones, computers or cameras. Keep all your belongings and don’t leave them un attended to in public places. Always carry cash in dollars and local currency because payments in local markets, craft shops are made both in cash but credit cards are also use in lodges and hotels.
Accommodation facilities
There are many different types of accommodation in Uganda. In Kampala and around Entebbe town there are many accommodations ranging from budget friendly hotels, mid-range and deluxe to luxury hotels. In national parks, accommodations are so unique. There are lodges, tented cams with traditional style like grass thatched lodges, home stays offer a taste of Uganda culture. Many accommodation facilities offer free WIFI in the main lounge but rarely in rooms. The amenities in the rooms include; drinking mineral water, sandals, bathing soap, bath tabs services. Personal items like tooth brushes are not provided.
