Category: Activities

Birdwatching with Children in Africa (Tips!)

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No matter your age, bird watching can be a fun and interesting way to pass the time. While it’s something that most people get into as they get older, I want to explain how birdwatching for children is an accessible, affordable, and enjoyable family hobby and why it could be an awesome part of your upcoming vacation in East Africa.

This article will serve as your guide to birdwatching for children and explains everything you need to know to take your little one out birding for the first time.

Is birdwatching with children a good activity?

Birdwatching is an excellent activity for children. It’s a great way to teach your kids about the natural world around them while encouraging them to explore the great outdoors. 

In the sections that follow, I explain the benefits of birdwatching for children and introduce you to eight top tips that will help you get started. 

By the end, I hope you have all the information you need to take your kids out looking for birds in the great outdoors.

The benefits of birdwatching with your kids

A couple of Eastern Grey Plantain Eaters in my garden in Uganda!

Although birdwatching is often regarded as an activity reserved for elderly people who are retired, the reality is quite different. 

In fact, anyone can enjoy bird watching, as it’s a wonderful way to get in touch with your natural surroundings.

For kids, birdwatching can be especially rewarding in numerous ways, including:

  • It’s an excellent excuse to get your kids outside. A study published in the Guardian found that kids spend just eight hours each week outside, so improving their time spent in the great outdoors is a good thing. 
  • Birdwatching is a great way to teach your kids about the native species while on vacation, and it can help them in science and geography class. 
  • As an activity, birding encourages kids to be more observant of the natural world around them, which is an excellent trait to develop from an early age. 
  • By introducing your children to a range of species, you will find that they develop an appreciation for birds, which will extend to other animals and creatures later in life. 

While it might not be the most conventional hobby for kids to get involved in, birdwatching is actually an excellent opportunity to spend more time with your kids in the great outdoors. 

What’s not to love about that?

Five tips for birdwatching with your kids on vacation

Depending on your kids’ age and previous experiences, they might not be overly sold on the idea of going birdwatching with you at the start. 

This is okay, as most kids consider birdwatching to be an activity for older adults only! So, with that in mind, here are eight tips that will help you as you introduce your kids to the wonderful world of birding for the first time.

Invest in a field guide

The Malachite Kingfisher is one of Africa’s most beautiful birds. I spotted this guy on a safari in Lake Mburo with my son.

The best way to encourage your kids to develop an interest in the birds in their garden is to invest in a field guide. 

Full of pictures, field guides provide you with relevant information about the species and offer tips on how to identify specific birds. 

Searching through a field guide to identify a bird that has recently set up a nest in your backyard is a wonderful activity to complete with your kids. 

You can even start your own lifer list and encourage your kids to make a note every time they see a new bird throughout your vacation in East Africa.

Ask them to listen to and identify bird songs

Perhaps the thing I love most about having an abundance of wild birds in my garden in Uganda is the cacophony of sounds that I wake up to. 

When you’re not paying attention, it can be difficult to discern between one birdsong and another.

However, when you get into the habit of listening carefully, you can easily identify which birds are currently in and around where you are. 

Even if they can’t see the bird that’s making the beautiful sounds, you can invite them to scroll through their field guide, as many have helpful descriptions about how to listen for birds in the vicinity.

Plan your first birdwatching trip

There are so many brilliant spots to go birdwatching in East Africa and if you head into any national park, you will be treated to a huge variety of birdlife.

Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda is one of the region’s best birding destinations, so it’s well worth a trip with your kids if you want them to discover an array of species that are native to the region.

Ask your kids to draw the birds they spot

To make the act of birdwatching more hands-on, ask your kids to draw or paint the birds that they’ve been able to identify. 

It’s helpful to capture pictures of the birds with your camera, but you will be amazed at how great children are at recalling information. 

And while the end result might not be totally accurate, it’s all about creating a fun and rewarding experience for your kids. 

This will also help them remember the species that they spot and hopefully will encourage them to continue with their new hobby.

Introduce them to birds of prey

This long-crested eagle regularly spends time in my garden. I love having her around!

Depending on the age of your children, it might be a good idea to introduce them to birds of prey early on. Why? 

Well, there’s something exciting about predators that take to the skies – it’s perhaps why kids love the ideas of dinosaurs so much (well, that and Jurassic Park, of course!).

No matter how old you are, the first time you see an eagle in flight, you’re bound to be excited. 

Eagles are majestic predators, and the chance to spot one in the wild is something that all birders aspire to. 

I’m fortunate to have a long-crested eagle that lives close by, and I spot her in the garden from time to time. Although not the biggest or most powerful eagle, the fact that I can glimpse her close-up reminds me of how lucky I am to live where I do.

Broader lessons you can teach your kids while birdwatching

As I bring this article to a close, I just want to mention some learning opportunities that you can use to educate your kids about bird watching. 

After all, while it’s a fun way to spend some quality time with your kids, it’s also a great opportunity for you to encourage them to learn about the world around them.

So, here are some key things to think about: 

  • Show your kids how birds interact with one another in the natural world. A trip into nature to see native species in your area is so much more rewarding than a trip to your local zoo. We should always encourage kids to see birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat, as opposed to behind bars. 
  • Encourage your kids to consider the different natural habitats of the birds that you introduce them to. Take them to different locations – woodland, forests, water bodies, and the coast – and ask them to think about the different ways that nature plays host to birds. 
  • Finally, I think that birding is a great way to teach kids about the natural world in general. Taking them out to natural spaces and encouraging them to interact with a different plant, bird, and animal species will help them to appreciate the world around them as they grow. That’s certainly a value I hope my kids hold dear as they grow up.

Recap: Birding with children in Africa

While it might not seem like the most conventional hobby for little ones, bird watching is an excellent way to spend time with your children in the great outdoors. 

I hope that you’ve found this guide to birdwatching with children informative, insightful, and helpful. Let me know in the comments below how you get on when you take your kids out bird-watching for the very first time!

Keen to learn more about birdwatching in East Africa? Check out this post that includes a birdwatching checklist, and this article that helps you decide what to wear on an upcoming birding trip in the region.

Is Lake Mburo Worth Visiting? (Yes – Here’s Why!)

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When you think about a safari in Uganda, most people turn their attention to Kidepo NP or Murchison Falls in the north or Queen Elizabeth NP in the southwest. 

But in this article, I want to introduce you to another excellent safari location in the Pearl of Africa as I answer the question – is Lake Mburo worth visiting? 

I’ve been on three self-driven safaris around Lake Mburo, and I absolutely love the place! While it doesn’t offer the same level of wildlife sightings as some of the bigger parks, it’s a gem of a location for those in the know.

So, read on to find out what you need to know about Lake Mburo NP, as well as six reasons why I absolutely think that Lake Mburo is worth visiting during your upcoming vacation in Uganda.

Where is Lake Mburo?

Lake Mburo is located in western Uganda, close to the city of Mbarara. It takes around four hours to drive from Kampala to Lake Mburo, making it a much closer safari destination than the likes of Queen Elizabeth National Park and Kidepo, both of which are considerably further away in the southwest and northeast of the country, respectively. 

One of the best things about Lake Mburo is the fact that it’s just off the main road from Kampala-Mbarara, making it super accessible and really easy to get to from Uganda’s hectic capital. As such, it’s a popular tourist destination with Ugandans and foreign visitors alike. But is Lake Mburo worth visiting? What can you see there?

What can you do at Lake Mburo?

A pair of fish eagles in Lake Mburo National Park. In my humble opinion, they’re the most beautiful birds in Africa.

Lake Mburo is one of Uganda’s safari destinations, and it’s a gazetted national park, meaning that the main activity is spotting wildlife! You can arrange a self-drive around Lake Mburo or plan your trip to the national park via a tour agency. You can also do walking, cycling, or even horseback safaris (yes, really!) in Lake Mburo National Park, another reason why this gem is becoming more and more popular.

Of course, as the name of the park suggests, there’s also the eponymous lake to check out, and boat cruises around Lake Mburo are leisurely and an absolute must for birders. There are so many birds in and around the lake that it’s actually difficult to keep track – the shoebill is here (though I still haven’t seen one!), while the majestic fish eagle is a star attraction on the lake shores. 

In spite of its incredible beauty and the huge range of wildlife and birds you can spot within the confines of Lake Mburo National Park, it is often known for what it is lacking – a significant number of predators, as we explain below.

Are there lions in Lake Mburo National Park?

The short answer is no – there are not thought to be lions in Lake Mburo National Park, at least not to the same extent that they exist in other parks in Uganda. That being said, the park itself reports that half a dozen lion sightings have been recorded in recent years, suggesting that the lion population could be on the rise.

I’ve been to Lake Mburo for a self-drive safari on three separate occasions, and I’ve never seen a lion. I haven’t seen a leopard either, although there is known to be a small leopard population in Lake Mburo, with sightings much more common than those of their feline counterparts. If you’re looking for lions, Queen Elizabeth Park is a much better option than Lake Mburo, with the famed tree-climbing lions of Ishasha within the park. 

When you visit Lake Mburo, you will also notice the absence of elephants. The park is simply too small to cater to their nomadic lifestyle, and you will need to travel to Queen Elizabeth to see them.

Six reasons why Lake Mburo is worth visiting

So, in spite of the absence of the predators that are such a huge draw for the other national parks in East Africa, there are lots of reasons to visit Lake Mburo, as I explain below.

Giraffes and zebras!

Lake Mburo’s giraffes might just be the park’s star attraction.

I don’t know about you, but I just love giraffes and zebras. They’re animals that I grew up with a fascination with, and as I’ve grown older, my opinion of them hasn’t changed. 

Because giraffes and zebras aren’t native to all the national parks in Uganda (they’re notably absent from Queen Elizabeth, for instance), the fact that they’re abundant in Lake Mburo is a huge reason to visit this oft-overlooked national park. 

While the giraffes are wary of vehicles and tend to keep their distance from the tracks (at least in my experience), the zebras are quite literally everywhere in Lake Mburo, and you can watch them grazing without a care in the world.

This presents lots of close-up photo opportunities, perfect for updating your social media accounts with dreamy zebra snaps from your time in Lake Mburo!

It’s relatively small and easy to navigate

Lake Mburo is the smallest national park in Uganda, covering an area of just 260 square km. There are also only two entrances to the park, meaning that it’s actually really easy to navigate around. 

You can easily follow the trails without a map, and you can cover the park in half a day, which is perfect if you’re short of time and don’t have long left in Uganda before returning home. 

If you’re planning to stay at Lake Mburo, all of the accommodation is perched around the outside of the park (with one or two exceptions), and it’s super easy to head from your lodgings to the park entrance for your safari.

Ultimately, its small size and easy-to-navigate tracks are appealing to people who don’t want to spend days traversing the bigger parks in East Africa, which is another reason why Lake Mburo is a great option for tourists visiting Uganda.

It’s reasonably close to Entebbe/Kampala

Lake Mburo is a four-hour drive from Uganda’s capital, Kampala. To get to Queen Elizabeth, it takes around eight hours in the car, and you have to pass the entrance of Lake Mburo to get there via the KLA-MRA road. 

Conversely, if you want to get to Kidepo National Park (arguably Uganda’s best wildlife destination), it typically takes two days to drive there, given the poor quality of the road north of Arua. 

So, there’s no question that the fact that Lake Mburo is reasonably close to Kampala and Entebbe makes it an attractive proposition for many, particularly those short on time when visiting Uganda on vacation.

Walking/cycling/horseback safaris!

While most visitors to Lake Mburo opt for a traditional vehicle safari, it’s not the only option when visiting the park. The lack of predators and elephants makes it safe to go on walking, cycling, and horseback safaris around Lake Mburo, providing a much different wildlife experience! 

Many of the lodges in and around the park can organize these unique safari experiences for you, but you can also find out more information about horseback safaris by visiting Mihingo Lodge – an exclusive resort in Lake Mburo National Park.

As for walking and cycling safaris, most Lake Mburo lodges can organize them for you, so there’s no need to necessarily plan ahead. Given that you’re not permitted to leave the vehicle in most East African National Parks, the fact that you can wander Lake Mburo on foot, via horseback, or on a bicycle is particularly liberating.

The boat cruise

I photographed the rare African Finfoot at Lake Mburo NP – a birdwatcher’s dream!

Arguably the main attraction in Lake Mburo National Park is the boat cruise around the eponymous lake. You can reserve a seat on the boat from the UWA office in the park, with morning and afternoon trips available. Again, there’s no need to book ahead, and you can do it when you arrive at the park.

Every time I’ve been on the boat cruise, I’ve been captivated by the beauty of the lake and the wildlife that surrounds it. I’m really into birding, and I’ve seen so many species – I’m particularly proud of the fact that I spotted the rare African Finfoot – a species that birders travel to Lake Mburo specifically to see. 

In addition to the incredible array of birds around the lake, you can also spot hippos, buffalos, and Nile crocodiles during your boat cruise, with the latter often sunbathing on the banks in the heat of the African sun. Quite the sight to see!

Excellent accommodation options

Last but certainly not least, Lake Mburo is home to an excellent mix of great accommodation options to suit all budgets. I’ve stayed at Eagle’s Nest and Hyena Hill Lodge at Lake Mburo – both of which I would highly recommend. 

They offer great value for money, friendly staff, and comfortable lodgings, and they are located with stunning views across the park. For something a little more upmarket, I would recommend Rwakobo Rock after staying there with my parents last year. 

Given the costs associated with staying in lodgings in most East African national parks, I was impressed by the value of those in Lake Mburo, which is another reason to make sure you visit on your upcoming trip to Uganda.

Planning a trip to Lake Mburo?

Lake Mburo NP is stunning. I snapped this photograph at the awesome Hyena Hill Lodge on the outskirts of the park.

Lake Mburo is a hidden gem in western Uganda that is often overlooked by safari companies keen to take their clients to Queen Elizabeth, where the tree-climbing lions roam free! 

But for something slightly different, Lake Mburo provides a wonderful safari experience in sub-Saharan Africa. So, in answer to the question – is Lake Mburo worth visiting? – I would say that yes, it 100% is.

I have partnered with AJ Tours and Travel and can offer excellent rates if you want to plan a safari in Lake Mburo. Get in touch, and I would be delighted to pass on my discounted rate to you as you plan your trip to the Pearl of Uganda this year.

Colors Not to Wear When Birding in East Africa

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When you’re new to birding, there’s a lot to think about. Something that doesn’t get enough attention in the birding world is the color of clothing that you should wear. 

After all, there’s no uniform for bird watching, and you can – theoretically – wear what you like. But do the colors that you wear on a birding trip affect your chances of seeing birds? Absolutely! 

Let’s take a look at the colors you need to avoid wearing when birding before discovering how to dress appropriately to give yourself the best chance of spotting birds in their natural habitats.

Which colors to avoid when birding?

Birders should avoid wearing white and any other bright and fluorescent colors. This is because birds associate white with danger and will be easily spooked by its presence. As such, opt for clothes that blend in with the bird’s natural habitat and remain as inconspicuous as possible.

Why do colors matter when birding?

Birds are intelligent, sensitive creatures that are fully aware of their surroundings. Like all animals, they have an innate fight-or-flight instinct, and the latter is particularly easy for our feathered friends! 

So, if you scare a bird in any way, even unintentionally, they’re unlikely to stick around for very long. Therefore, wearing the right colors when you head outdoors to look for birds is really important.

One of the first things you should do, particularly when you’re new to birding, is to consider the environment that you’re heading into. Your job should be to blend in as best you can, as this will ensure you don’t scare the birds when you see them. 

Provided you’re; still, birds will probably feel comfortable flying close to you and perching on nearby branches, particularly if you’re well camouflaged.

As such, wearing the wrong colors can have a significantly negative impact on your overall birding experience. Let’s take a look at some of the colors you need to avoid when birding.

The colors you need to avoid when birding

White

The main color that you should avoid when birding is white. This is because birds associate white with danger, perhaps in a similar way to humans associating red with the same thing. 

White tail feathers of birds flying away sends a warning signal to other birds, which is one of the reasons why they associate white with potential danger.  

If you’re bird watching from a white vehicle, or if your home is white and you’re hoping to attract birds to your backyard, you might struggle to do so.

Again, this is because most birds associate white with danger. Too much white also feels unsafe to non-white birds as there is nowhere for them to hide. 

So, if there’s one color that you should avoid when birding, it’s white.

Bright yellow/green/orange

Frankly, bright and fluorescent colors aren’t the best choice when you’re birdwatching. They’re far too conspicuous, and you will stand out.

Even from a distance, certain birds might be put off by bright colors, so it’s best to avoid them wherever possible to give your chance the best chance of spotting birds in their natural environment. 

The bottom line here is that any colors that are likely to attract unnecessary attention are best avoided. As you know, birds are easily spooked, so you don’t want to risk scaring them off by wearing the wrong colored jacket.

Anything shiny

Okay, so ‘shiny’ isn’t a color, but it’s worth noting here. People who want to keep birds away from their properties often deck their outside spaces with reflective materials or shiny, silver sheets. 

Understandably, this is extremely off-putting for birds, so you need to be mindful of anything reflective you might have on your clothing.

You should steer clear of reflective vests and safety clothing, for instance, as they glimmer in the sunlight and are likely to unsettle the birdlife around you. 

Something that’s also worth noting is that researchers have found that birds can see UV rays. This is why reflective fabrics and other surfaces are so problematic when you’re birding. 

You should also think carefully about wearing a watch, as light may reflect off the screen and frighten a nearby bird.

Are there any birds that like bright colors?

Curiously, hummingbirds are attracted to bright colors. Photo Credit: Candi Foltz.

Although most birds are spooked by bright colors, hummingbirds are an exception. In fact, they are attracted to bright colors, and wearing the likes of pinks, yellows, and oranges will actually help your chances of spotting a hummingbird. 

Hummers are particularly attracted to red, too, as highlighted by their penchant for red feeders and flowers.

If you’ve ever watched a hummingbird in flight, you will notice that they actually seek out the most vibrant colors in a space before touching down. This is certainly unusual for birds, but it’s what makes hummers so unique. 

Therefore, if you’re on a mission to add a sub-species of a hummingbird to your lifer list, there’s nothing wrong with dressing up a little more brightly than usual. 

Just be mindful that doing so is likely to put off other species, even if you do manage to catch a glimpse of the hummer you’ve been yearning to spot.

So, what colors should you wear when birding?

When planning your outfit for a birding trip, begin by considering your environment. The best thing to do is to wear comfortable clothes that will blend into the natural world around you. 

So, dark greens, greys, and browns will all work reasonably well if you’re headed into a wooded area. 

But if you’re going to a waterfront, you could opt for lighter shades of grey or even blue to blend in at the water’s edge.

You have probably noticed that some twitchers have all the gear and are typically camouflaged from head to foot, but this isn’t necessary. 

Instead, wear sensible and comfortable clothes that ensure you’re not conspicuous as you settle in for an afternoon of bird watching.

Do you need to buy specific clothes to go birding?

You don’t need to wear anything specific to go birding; just wear what’s comfortable. Photo Credit: Kayla Farmer.

Contrary to what some people might believe, you don’t need to wear a specific outfit to go birding. After all, there’s no uniform to adhere to! 

Therefore, you can turn to your wardrobe and wear any suitable outdoor clothes that you already have, so there’s no need to spend a fortune on the latest Patagonia gear just to look the part.

As mentioned, the key thing to consider when choosing your birding outfit is the colors that you opt for. Greys, khakis, browns, and dark greens are all ideal, particularly if you’re birding in a wooded area. 

But of course, seasonality affects birding, so you will need to dress accordingly to ensure you’re both comfortable and well hidden from the birds that you hope to spot. 

Even in the East African summer, I’d recommend long pants and long-sleeved shirts, as you need to protect your skin from the sun while you’re out and about. Long clothes will also help to keep the insects at bay.

Does wearing the right colors guarantee a sighting?

Unfortunately, there are no guarantees when it comes to spotting wildlife. And for me, that’s the best thing about birding. 

You have no idea what you’re going to see from one day to the next, which is what makes it so exciting. 

However, it’s fair to say that wearing the right clothing will increase your chances of seeing birds. Rocking up to a viewing spot in a bright white jacket and fluorescent pants is a big no-no! 

Provided that you’re dressed sensibly and appropriately, you have as good a chance as anyone else of spotting the species of bird that you’re hoping to see.

Key Takeaways: Colors to avoid when birding

So, as we’ve explored, there’s a lot to think about before heading out on your first birding expedition, particularly where the color of your clothes is concerned. 

To round things up, we want to leave you with these takeaways that you should remember as you plan your outfit for birding:

  • Never wear white when bird watching, as birds regard it as a sign of danger. 
  • Birds can see UV lights, so don’t wear reflective or safety clothing. 
  • You should also avoid all bright and fluorescent colors unless you’re hoping to spot a hummingbird. Hummers are attracted to bright reds, pinks, and oranges in particular. 
  • Leave anything shiny at home, and consider removing your watch, so the reflection from the screen doesn’t spook the birds. 
  • The best colors to wear when birding are those that help you blend into your surroundings. The likes of dark browns, greens, and greys are all ideal for a woodland trip. 
  • You do not need to buy any specific clothes to go birding. Just wear sensible outdoor clothing that isn’t brightly colored, and you will be good to go. 
  • Wearing the right colors won’t guarantee you sightings. After all, birds are wild, and you can’t control what you see from day to day, even if you are wearing all the right gear. 

You now have all the information you need to plan your outfit for your upcoming birding trip. I hope you have a wonderful time and see everything that you had hoped for!

Planning your first birdwatching trip in East Africa? Check out my helpful Birdwatching for Beginners article to learn everything you need to know!

Ten Reasons to Visit Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda

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Looking for reasons to visit Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda? Let me explain.

Lake Bunyonyi is paradise on earth. Hidden in the southwestern Uganda highlands, it’s a place like no other, with an incredible wealth of birdlife, stunning natural beauty, and a whole host of activities to keep tourists entertained. 

I’ve genuinely lost count of how many times I’ve visited Lake Bunyonyi, but I would say I’ve been there on at least ten separate occasions. Therefore, I put together this article to provide you with ten reasons to visit Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda, one of my favorite places on earth. 

If you have any questions about any of the points I raise or need some help booking a trip or accommodation, drop me a line in the comments below, and I’d be delighted to help you out.

But without further ado – here are ten reasons to visit Lake Bunyonyi, the jewel in Uganda’s crown.

10 reasons to visit Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi is a destination that truly takes your breath away and comes highly recommended by practically everyone who visits. But, if you still need persuading, here are 10 reasons to visit Lake Bunyonyi, a true paradise on earth:

Reason #1: It’s one of the most beautiful places on earth

There’s something magical about Lake Bunyonyi, particularly at sunrise.

I’ve traveled to lots of different places over the years, but I’m still yet to come across a place that I love as much as Lake Bunyonyi. I’m not just saying that for the purposes of this article; I genuinely think it’s one of the most beautiful places on earth. 

When you arrive in Kabale – the nondescript town that serves as the gateway to Lake Bunyonyi – you almost certainly won’t be prepared for the natural beauty that lies in wait.

The journey up the steep hill from town gives way to rolling terraces before the lake comes into view for the first time. As you wind your way back down to the lake shore, you start reaching some of the resorts and guesthouses that house the tourists that make it to this stunning part of the world.

I guarantee that you will want to take photos at practically every turn you make on the road, but there’s no rush. The pace of life in and around the shores of Bunyonyi is super slow, so you can head for a casual walk when you arrive at your lodgings and snap photos until your heart is content!

Reason #2: It’s safe for swimming

There aren’t many places (swimming pools excluded) that are safe for swimming in Uganda. And much to many people’s surprise, the biggest threat in water bodies is posed by the ungainly hippopotamus, which is responsible for around 500 human deaths in Africa every year.

Of course, Uganda’s waterways are also home to a sizeable population of Nile Crocodiles, pre-historic beasts that can grow up to 20 feet in length. Suffice it to say that you wouldn’t want to get in the water when a croc is around!

And if the threat of crocs and hippos isn’t enough to put you off swimming in freshwater lakes in Uganda, the presence of bilharzia might just seal the deal. It’s a tropical disease that can live in snails that are present in some freshwater bodies, and it’s not an infection that you want to risk catching.

But the good news? Lake Bunyonyi is free from hippos and crocs, and has been declared free from bilharzia, too. As a result, it’s one of only a few freshwater lakes safe for swimming in East Africa, making it an extremely popular tourist destination for this reason alone!

Reason #3: It’s perfect for birding

Bunyonyi literally means “place of many little birds,” and it’s one of East Africa’s prime destinations for birding safaris. It would be impractical to list all of the bird species native to Bunyonyi here, but you will see everything from egrets to eagles in and around the lake shores, and it’s a wonderful place to add to your lifer list. 

If you’re familiar with my articles, you will know that I’m a keen birdwatcher, and I’m so proud that a long-crested eagle has recently settled into one of the trees in my backyard!

Given that Bunyonyi is only a few hours’ drive from my home, I tend to visit several times a year, and I always take my camera with me in the hope of capturing images of as many birds as possible. 

If you don’t want to go things alone when you visit Bunyonyi, you can arrange guided birding safaris with local experts, and it makes for a wonderful afternoon as you walk around the lake looking for the various species that call this part of Uganda home. 

So, if you’re a keen birder and you’re planning an upcoming vacation in Uganda, Lake Bunyonyi is an absolute must-visit destination!

Check out my recent article about birdwatching for beginners in East Africa, to help you prepare for your first birding trip in the region!

Reason #4: There’s a lot of interesting local history

When you spend time at Lake Bunyonyi, you can learn about the fascinating history of the Bakiga tribe, who are native to the lake shores and the surrounding districts. 

One of the main points of interest at Lake Bunyonyi is Akampene – known in English as Punishment Island. Up until the middle of the twentieth century, unmarried pregnant girls were abandoned on the island and left to die. You can pass the eerie Punishment Island on a dug-out canoe when you visit Lake Bunyonyi, as a local guide offers context to this abhorrent practice.

Another point of interest within Lake Bunyonyi is Sharp’s Island, which served as a leprosy treatment center during the 1930s. Again, knowledgeable local guides are at hand to take you past the island, informing you of the intricacies of Sharp’s work and his legacy to this day. 

The Bakiga are extremely friendly and always willing to chat about their past, and the local history of the area is yet another reason to visit Lake Bunyonyi during your upcoming vacation in Uganda.

Reason #5: The crayfish is to die for

As a lover of seafood, I would travel a long way to enjoy the freshwater crayfish that is served by many of the restaurants and hotels that surround Lake Bunyonyi. Fortunately, I only have to drive for a few hours to enjoy this Ugandan delicacy, and the crayfish is truly out of this world. 

Plucked from the lake on a daily basis, the restaurants surrounding Lake Bunyonyi serve up dishes that include avocado and garlic crayfish, crayfish linguini, and crayfish curry, the latter being my personal favorite.

While there are lots of nice places to eat at Lake Bunyonyi, I highly recommend the restaurant at Bunyonyi Birdnest – crayfish features heavily on the menu, and there is an awesome selection of beers and wines to wash it down with, as well as stunning views across the lake.

Reason #6: There are lots of accommodation options

This article isn’t intended as a review of accommodation in and around Bunyonyi – you can use TripAdvisor for that – but what I will say is that there are so many accommodation options for you to choose from, at very reasonable prices given how beautiful the setting is. 

I’ve stayed at more than five different spots at Lake Bunyonyi on my many visits (and perhaps more, but I can only remember five!). The aforementioned Birdnest is perhaps my favorite, but I also want to give a shoutout to Byoona Amagara.

Located on an island, Byoona Amagara is an eco-friendly lodge in which you can sleep in purpose-built eco domes for unrivaled views across the lake. It’s the ultimate chill-out destination and a great place to get away from the world!

Reason #7: You can easily include it on your itinerary

When you look at Lake Bunyonyi on a map, you will be forgiven for thinking it’s not in a great location. After all, it’s tucked away in the far southwestern corner of Uganda. 

But assuming that you’ve come to Uganda for safari, Lake Bunyonyi is only a few hours’ drive away from Queen Elizabeth National Park, and the drive from Kihihi is nothing short of spectacular, as you are provided with incredible views as you make your way to the lake. 

Bunyonyi is also close to Uganda’s main gorilla trekking destinations and is a few hours’ drive from Buhoma, the main entrance to the Bwindi Impenetrable forest. So, if you’re in Uganda for safari or gorilla trekking, there’s absolutely no reason not to round off your trip with a few days at Lake Bunyonyi.

Another thing worth noting is that Lake Bunyonyi is around one hour away from the Rwandan border, which is ideal for visitors entering Uganda from the Gatuna border post. 

Given that lots of people opt for the East African Tourist Visa and visit Rwanda and Uganda during the same trip, adding a trip to beautiful Bunyonyi to your itinerary is a wonderful way to relax before your flight back home.

Reason #8: You can take a boat cruise

Preparing to take a canoe out onto Lake Bunyonyi! They’re much more difficult to control than they look…

While this might seem like an obvious thing to say, one of the best activities to enjoy at Lake Bunyonyi is a pre-arranged boat cruise with a local guide. You can hop in a dug-out canoe and watch the world go by at a leisurely pace, or you can arrange a motor boat to take you around the lake more quickly. 

Either way, hopping on a boat is a great way to explore the various islands that are dotted around the lake. 

You will also see lots of wildlife, and your guide will be able to point out the various points of interest that are prevalent on the shores of the lake.

Boat cruises are relatively inexpensive, too, with our recent boat trip costing around $30 for a two-hour trip on a motorized boat. We arranged it for just before our evening meal, so it was the perfect way to watch the sunset.

Reason #9: There’s an outdoor adventure park

While I like to visit Bunyonyi to switch off and recharge my batteries, I know lots of people prefer to fill their vacations with various activities. For the outdoorsy among you, there’s actually an outdoor adventure park on an island in the middle of the lake! 

Although I’ve never been to the park myself, my friends go there often and enjoy rope climbing and the zip wire, which I certainly would have enjoyed when I was younger. 

You don’t need to make arrangements ahead of time and can simply turn up on the island to enter the park. However, you can always make arrangements with your tour operator if you like to be organized, as you need to at least arrange transport from the mainland to the park – something that can be arranged with staff at the park itself.

Reason #10: There’s nowhere else like it in East Africa

Given that the Great Rift Valley is located in East Africa, the region isn’t short of crater lakes and remnants of volcanic activity from centuries ago. However, Lake Bunyonyi is truly a one-of-a-kind destination for the nine reasons mentioned above. 

It’s safe, located close to many of the other points of interest in this part of Uganda, and has an abundance of birdlife that cannot be found elsewhere in the Pearl of Africa. 

So, if you’re planning a trip to Uganda in the near future, you cannot afford to miss Lake Bunyonyi.

Recap: 10 reasons to visit Lake Bunyonyi

Of all the tourist destinations in Uganda, Lake Bunyonyi is probably my favorite – and I don’t say that lightly. Trust me, if you make the effort to visit this gorgeous part of the world, you simply won’t regret it.

While you can arrange a trip to Bunyonyi yourself, I have partnered with AJ Tours and Travel, who are specialist safari providers in East Africa. Andrew and the team can arrange all of your travel and accommodation needs in Uganda and can put together the perfect itinerary – with Lake Bunyonyi as a star attraction at the end of your vacation!

Golf in Uganda: Five Courses to Try!

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Uganda might not strike you as an obvious place to enjoy a golf vacation, but in reality, there are some awesome courses to try in the Pearl of Africa. 

I consider myself a recreational golfer (handicap 20ish!), and I typically enjoy my experience on the nineteenth hole more than my time spent hacking around the golf course! 

Still, I’ve played golf at several courses in Uganda, and I’ve found them all to be extremely enjoyable, albeit for completely different reasons. 

I’m also a member at one of Uganda’s golf courses (more on this shortly), so I have a good perspective from which to provide you with a rundown of some of the best tracks in the country.

So, if you’re planning an upcoming vacation in Uganda, here are the best golf courses in Uganda that you should consider adding to your itinerary.

Garuga Golf Club, Kihihi

Par 71, 7189 yards

I’m a proud member of Garuga Golf Club, easily one of Uganda’s most intriguing golf courses!

I have been a member of Garuga Golf Club in Kihihi since the start of 2021, and there are so many things I like about the course. First and foremost, it is only a few kilometers from Queen Elizabeth National Park, and it truly provides the sensation of playing golf in the wild. 

While this also means that the course isn’t pristinely manicured, the track provides you with the perfect opportunity to play golf off the beaten track. The fact that Garuga Golf Club is in the extreme southwest of Uganda also means that it’s not particularly busy, and you will have no problem with just turning up and playing.

My main complaint about the course is that I feel it’s unnecessarily long, but you can just play nine holes if walking in the Ugandan sun for several hours is a little much for you! 

If you’re going to Queen Elizabeth NP or Bwindi for a safari or gorilla trek, you will pass Garuga Golf Course on the way to your accommodation, as the course is located at Savannah Hotel in Kihihi. 

Also, many tourists fly into Kihihi’s airstrip, which runs alongside the golf course and is perfectly positioned for tourists who are keen to enjoy a game of golf before hopping on a flight back to Entebbe. 

Although I’m biased, Garuga Golf Club is my favorite course in the country, and I would love to welcome you as my guest if you fancy a game on your upcoming vacation in Uganda!

Find out more information about Garuga Golf Club Kihihi here.

Uganda Golf Club, Kitante (Kampala)

Par 72, 7,200 yards

The most prestigious course in Uganda is undoubtedly Uganda Golf Club, situated in the Kitante area of Kampala. This luscious and well-manicured course provides an incredible test in the heart of Kampala city, as well as a bar and restaurant that attracts members and guests alike. 

The Ugandan Open is often held at Uganda Golf Club, and if you’re seeking the truest test of golf in the country, then this is the place for you. 

Although primarily a member’s course, you can arrange a game if you’re visiting Uganda on vacation by contacting the pro shop directly, either via email or over the phone. Just explain that you’re on vacation in Uganda, and they will hook you up with a tee time to suit your itinerary.

The dress code is important here, so make sure you have the right gear with you, or you may not be permitted to play the course. 

Find out more information about Uganda Golf Club, Kitante, here.

Lake Victoria Serena Golf Club, Kampala

Par 72, 7,262 yards

Designed by Golf Plan Inc USA, Lake Victoria Serena Golf Club is arguably the best golf course in Uganda and offers an incredible test of golf in serene surroundings. 

When I played here with my Dad, I found the course to be in extremely good condition, and the views across Lake Victoria added to the experience, even if I did lose a hatful of balls in the drink! 

Perhaps the standout feature of Lake Victoria Serena is the 18th-hole island green that resembles the TPC at Sawgrass. Although a simple wedge over the water, I put two in the water before landing a third just a few inches from the hole!

The hotel that accompanies the course is superb, and there are golf carts available here, too. Overall, Lake Victoria Serena is an international-standard golf course and is an awesome place to enjoy golf in the Pearl of Africa. 

Find out more information about Lake Victoria Serena Golf Club here.

Entebbe Golf Club, Entebbe

Par 71, 6,784 yards

Photo Credit: Entebbe Golf Club

Entebbe Golf Club is the oldest course in East Africa and is beautifully shaped and excellently manicured, making it an enviable place to enjoy a round of golf. 

At 6,784 yards, it’s considerably shorter than most of the other courses in Uganda, and it is perfectly located close to Entebbe International Airport for those who have some hours to kill before jumping on a flight back home.

Like Uganda Golf Club, Entebbe is primarily a member’s course, but you can reach out to the pro shop and enquire about playing as a visitor, as they welcome guest players. 

Thanks to its enviable location and the fact that it’s usually quieter than Uganda Golf Club in Kitante, Entebbe Golf Club would be my recommendation if you have some time to kill in and around Entebbe before returning home. 

Find out more information about Entebbe Golf Club here.

Jinja Golf Club, Jinja

Par 72, 5,926 yards

Also known as the golf course at the source of the Nile, Jinja Golf Club is a wonderful place to play golf due to its relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff and members. 

While there are only nine holes at Jinja Golf Club, you can play the track twice if you wish to enjoy a full round, or you can simply enjoy the nine holes available the day before or after enjoying white water rafting on the Nile!

Like Garuga Golf Club in Kihihi, you don’t have to book in advance at Jinja, and you can simply turn up and request a tee time as a guest player. 

So, if you’re in Jinja to see the source of the River Nile, there’s no reason not to head to the golf course for nine holes in this gorgeous part of the country!

Find out more information about Jinja Golf Club here.

The verdict: The best golf courses in Uganda

So, there you have it – the five best golf courses in Uganda! You can arrange a game of golf in the Pearl of Africa by contacting the pro shop of each course directly via the links provided throughout. 

If you have any questions about any of the courses or would like any more information about any of the tracks that I’ve introduced above, drop a comment below, and I’ll get back to you!

East Africa Birdwatching for Beginners Checklist

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Welcome to my birdwatching for beginners guide!

Birdwatching is one of the most accessible hobbies in the world, and the stark truth is this: you don’t need anything to go birdwatching. 

There, I’ve said it. 

You can simply walk outside and look above you before waiting to see what birds make their way into your immediate surroundings. This is the reason why I enjoy bird watching so much, as you can just pop outside for five minutes to see what’s around. 

Still, there are certain items that make birdwatching that little bit easier, particularly if you’re heading out into woodland for an actual bird-watching trip, or planning to go bird-watching on an upcoming safari in Africa.

But before diving in and buying all the latest and most expensive gear, the reality is you probably have most – if not all – of the items you could possibly need to go bird-watching already. 

Therefore, I’ve put together this super helpful checklist that includes everything I think you need to go bird-watching as a beginner. I’ve also included some tips on what you don’t need, regardless of what you might have heard from an experienced birder. 

Ready to dive into our list? Let’s go.

Birdwatching for beginners: What do you need?

Instead of telling you what you need to take birding, I’ve decided to list seven things that I think you might find helpful as a beginner bird watcher. You can agree or disagree with me; it’s entirely up to you!

Birdwatching for beginners: 7 helpful items

So, here’s my suggested checklist, followed by a closer look at why I think you can utilize these items during your upcoming birding trip to East Africa.

An open mind

Okay, so the first thing isn’t actually a “thing,” but it’s perhaps the most important point on this entire list. When you’ve decided to go bird-watching, you need to adopt an open mindset and manage your expectations. 

What I mean by this is that birds come and go as they please, and you’re not guaranteed to see one species over another. 

If you leave home expecting and hoping more than anything to see an elusive shoebill, for instance, on your first-ever trip, you might end up disappointed. 

While it’s nice to think of birds that you would like to see, you shouldn’t set any expectations of what you will see on your upcoming trip.

Instead, regard the trip as an opportunity to be present in the great outdoors, and see what you discover. 

This way, you won’t be bitterly disappointed if you don’t spot a rare bird that you had very little chance of seeing in the first place.

Time and patience

Birdwatching in Uganda - a long-crested eagle
There’s something about eagles! I snapped this moody looking long-crested eagle in my garden in Uganda recently. One of the many perks of living in this beautiful part of the world!

Adding to my previous point, you need to be patient when you’re out birding. Birds don’t adhere to the same strict patterns that we do, and you will find that different birds come and go throughout the day. 

While I’m not saying that you need to go and sit in the bush all day just to see something, you equally can’t expect to rock up and see all the native species in a specific area in a matter of minutes. 

So many of us (myself included!) are guilty of wanting things to happen right away. With birding, you need to be patient as you observe the natural world around you.

I actually think bird watching is an excellent mindfulness activity, and it encourages people to focus their attention on the present moment. 

As such, it can be a great way to de-stress and unwind, so long as you don’t get agitated about not seeing a specific bird species!

The right clothing

Okay, so now it’s time to look at the practical items on our checklist. When you go birding, you need to dress appropriately. Here are my suggestions: 

  • Long-sleeved shirts to keep the insects and sun at bay. 
  • Lightweight pants with pockets – cargo pants or something similar are ideal. 
  • Long socks and comfortable footwear. What you wear on your feet depends on where you’re going, but if you’re planning to follow trails, hiking boots are your best bet. 
  • A hat and sunglasses if you’re birdwatching in the summer. 
  • Choose dull colors that help you blend into your natural surroundings. Birds don’t like white and bright colors, so bear this in mind when picking your outfit.

In addition to these items, you should dress for the weather. Obviously, if you’re birding in East Africa during the rainy season, take some waterproof clothing with you. 

But as you can see from the list, you don’t need to wear anything fancy to go birding. Just wear some comfortable clothes that you already have in your closet and get out there!

Binoculars

Binoculars aren’t essential for bird watching, but they do help considerably. The best thing about birding binoculars is that they help you keep your distance from birds. 

Most birds are scared of humans, so if you get too close in an attempt to spot a certain species, you might scare them away before you’ve been able to take a good look.

However, investing in a pair of binoculars is a decent way to improve your overall bird-watching experience. 

There’s absolutely no reason to splash the cash on a pair of binoculars if you don’t want to. In fact, you can grab a great pair of binoculars for birding on Amazon for less than £30, which will serve you well as you head out into the woods.

Top tip: When you’re looking for birding binoculars, pay attention to the power magnification and lens width. For instance, a pair might be expressed as 12×42, which means it has 12x power magnification and 42mm lenses. This would be ideal for getting you started.

A camera

As is the case with binoculars, you don’t need a camera to go bird watching. If you want to get out into nature and see what’s around you, there’s absolutely no need to take pictures at the same time, if you don’t want to. 

Personally, I love taking pictures of birds, so I take my camera with me when I go birding, but that’s just my preference. I have a Sony bridge camera with 30x optical zoom. 

Is it the best camera in the world? No. 

Does it enable me to take awesome pictures of birds that I can share with my family and friends? Yes.

As I’ve got more into bird watching, I have considered investing in a new camera, but I haven’t taken the plunge yet. 

My advice here is that you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars on an impeccable wildlife camera if you don’t want to. 

A digital camera with zoom capabilities is more than sufficient for anyone with interest in watching and taking pictures of birds. If you have one already, great. But if not, you can hop onto Amazon and pick up a great camera for a few hundred dollars.

One thing I would say is that you probably need a camera instead of relying on your smartphone. The reality is that unless a bird is super close to you, a smartphone camera won’t be able to do the shot justice.

Notebook/Journal

I find it helpful to carry a small journal with me when I go bird watching. That way, I can make notes about the birds that I sight. 

For instance, I have a little journal that I keep on my desk that includes the birds that I see in and around my garden. In Uganda, so many birds I’m unfamiliar with come and go, so my notebook always comes in handy.

I’ve got to know all of the species pretty well that I share a home with, but I’m always thrilled when I see a new bird enter the fray! 

Having my journal on hand is my way of learning (and remembering!) the species native to my area as I check through my field guide to help me. What is a field guide, I hear you ask? More on that below.

Field guide

My birdwatching Bibles! I take these books everywhere with me when heading on safari or holiday in Uganda.

A field guide is basically a book that consists of pictures and descriptions of the bird species that are native to a certain area. 

As a beginner birder, a field guide will help you enormously, as it will provide you with tips on how to identify a species while serving as a pictorial reference guide when you’re completely unsure of what you’ve just seen! 

Of course, you can use the internet to help you in this day and age, but I love nothing more than flicking through a field guide to identify a species that I’ve just spotted. 

I use two field guides right now to help me. The first is a pocket guide containing the Birds of East Africa, and the second is a charming coffee-table book containing all the birds of Uganda specifically.

I use the two in tandem, but I like to carry the pocket guide around with me when I’m on the road. I’m headed to Kenya next month, and I will no doubt have my pocket field guide in my backpack.

Birdwatching for beginners: What you don’t need

As you can see from my checklist, the truth is that you don’t need a great deal of things to go bird-watching. Therefore, it’s a really easy hobby to get into. 

Before bringing this article to a close, I just want to touch on a few things that I don’t think you need to go birding. In other words, I don’t want them to serve as barriers to entry!

The best and most expensive gear

As is the case when you’re starting any hobby, a quick Google search will reveal a whole host of items that might at first seem essential to your life as a bird watcher. 

And before you know it, you’ve spent thousands of dollars on binoculars, a camera, and a range of other high-tech equipment that you don’t actually need. 

While everyone is entitled to spend whatever they like on gear, I just want to reemphasize the fact that you don’t need the best and most expensive equipment to enjoy bird watching. 

You can always upgrade your equipment as you get more into bird watching if you like, so don’t feel as if you need to spend the big bucks when you’re just getting started.

Special clothing

Living in Uganda, I marvel at the fact that so many tourists dress in the same way to come on safari! Be it a wildlife trip or a birding experience; people seem to wear super expensive clothes that they’ve obviously ordered specifically for their safari. 

But to go birding, you don’t need to wear anything special. You certainly don’t need to order expensive pants or shirts to try and look a certain way.

Just make sure your clothing doesn’t cause you to stand out when you go birding, as bright colors are likely to scare away the birds. 

My advice would be to wear clothes that you already have, instead of investing hundreds of bucks in the latest brands of clothing.

Knowledge of birds

Finally, I want to reassure you that you don’t need to know a single thing about birds before heading out on your first bird-watching trip. 

The best way to learn about something is to go ahead and find out for yourself. Even if you can’t identify one single species during your first outing, it doesn’t matter. 

I invite you to head out into the natural world and look around you. You can then use a field guide (or your smartphone) to try and discover what the bird is that you’ve just spotted. 

And that, in a nutshell, is my favorite thing about birding! You’ll be an expert in no time at all.

Recap: Birdwatching for beginners in East Africa

So, to recap, here are seven things that can help you when you’re just starting out as a bird watcher and are about to undertake a trip in East Africa: 

  • An open mindset 
  • Time and patience 
  • The right clothing 
  • Binoculars 
  • A camera 
  • Notebook/journal 
  • Field guide

If you have any other tips on items that will help beginner birders, please feel free to drop your suggestions in the comment section below! 

Otherwise, happy birding, and I hope you’ve found my birdwatching for beginners guide helpful!

If you’re planning to take your kids’ birdwatching in East Africa, this guide to birding with children will help you prepare for the adventure! You might also find this informative guide to what not to wear birding helpful, ahead of your first birdwatching trip in East Africa!

Is White Water Rafting in Uganda Any Good? (Yes – Here’s Why!)

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While most people plan trips to Uganda for the incredible wildlife experiences on offer throughout the country, there’s another activity that the Pearl of Africa is renowned for – white water rafting. 

But is white water rafting in Uganda any good? Having been on two separate white water rafting trips in Jinja, I want to explain why I think it’s an absolute must for any thrill seekers visiting Uganda. 

But first, let’s look at some basic facts relating to white water rafting in Uganda, so you can get a good idea of what to expect from this incredible experience.

White water rafting in Uganda: The facts

  • The hub of white water rafting in Uganda is the town of Jinja, located approximately 80km east of Kampala. 
  • The “rapids” in Uganda run for a stretch of around 20km, incorporating ten individual rapids spanning from grades 2-5. 
  • You can opt for grade 3 or grade 5 rafting, depending on your preferences and desired thrill level! Rapids are universally graded from 1-6, 1 being mellow and 6 being unpassable in a raft.
  • White water rafting in Uganda starts at $140 per person, and several companies offer tours from Jinja. 
  • As well as white water rafting, you can also complete a bungee jump at the source of the River Nile.

Is white water rafting in Uganda worth it?

I would rank white water rafting as one of the most enjoyable things I have ever done! I first experienced white water rafting in Uganda in 2012 and then did it again in 2016.

I have also been white water rafting on the Zambezi River in Zambia, which was also incredible! 

So, in my humble opinion, white water rafting in Uganda is 100% worth it. If you’re not convinced, here are seven reasons why I think you should incorporate white water rafting in your upcoming trip to the Pearl of Africa.

Reason #1: It takes place at the source of the Nile

The Nile is the longest river in the world, running from its source in East Africa all the way to the Mediterranean Sea north of Egypt. The Nile runs through (or along the border of) ten African countries, and it’s undoubtedly one of the most interesting rivers in the world. 

The source of the River Nile has been disputed for centuries, with British explorer John Hanning Speke often credited with being the first western explorer to attribute the source of the Nile to Lake Victoria in Uganda.

Today, most people agree that the source of the Nile can be traced to the Ugandan town of Jinja, which is a short journey east of the country’s capital city, Kampala. 

And that brings me to the topic of this article – white water rafting on the Nile! All of the rafting companies that operate in Uganda are based out of Jinja, the source of the river Nile, offering you the perfect opportunity to visit this incredible natural landmark. 

Jinja is an awesome place to relax, and enjoying a Nile Special beer while watching the sunset over the source of the River Nile is a pretty special experience. But the chilled vibes in Jinja don’t adequately prepare you for the carnage out on the river, as I touch on below.

Reason #2: Grade 5 rapids!

When I first went white water rafting in Uganda in 2012, I was ill-prepared for what lay in wait. Uganda is home to Grade 5 rapids, which are the biggest rapids that you can pass through on a raft.

I was pleased to learn that rapids are rated via a relatively simple grading system, and a destination with grade 5 rapids is highly sought after among thrill seekers. 

The sheer power of the rapids that you ride from the source of the Nile is pretty hard to describe in words, particularly if you’ve never gone rafting before.

The best analogy I can offer is that when the boat capsized and I was flung into the water, it felt like what I imagine being inside a washing machine must be like!

While thrilling, I was taken aback by just how violent the water on the Nile is and was extremely grateful to the chap who helped me back onto the boat a few hundred yards down the river. 

So, if you’re seeking a thrilling adventure in East Africa, it’s hard to beat the thrill offered by grade-five white water rafting at the source of the Nile!

Reason #3: The activity is offered by reputable tour companies

White water rafting on the Nile
If you’re planning to go white water rafting on the Nile, I’d highly recommend Adrift, a company I have used twice. Photo credit: Adrift.

As is the case with any extreme adventure, you want to make sure that the guys that are in charge of your white water rafting experience know what they’re doing and follow all the relevant safety protocols. 

After all, it’s a dangerous enough activity without having to deal with cowboys who are looking to make a quick buck while neglecting your safety.

The good news for thrill seekers in Uganda is that there are several reputable companies offering white water rafting experiences in Uganda. Each time I’ve gone rafting on the Nile, I have booked with Adrift, and I highly recommend their service.

The team at Adrift has more than thirty years of experience rafting on the Nile, and they’re the ideal company to trust as you seek out a whitewater rafting adventure!

Reason #4: You can spot lots of wildlife

When you’re not trying desperately to keep your head above the water, sitting in a raft and sailing down the River Nile is a wonderful way to pass the time. There are actually some big sections of water between the rapids, meaning that there’s lots of opportunity to see the world around you. 

From your boat, you can spot an abundance of wildlife as you make your way down the river. I remember spotting a sunbathing monitor lizard on the river’s bank, and after being reassured that it wasn’t, in fact, a crocodile, my panic attack subsided!

There are so many birds of prey in and around the river, too, with the majestic fish eagle being the star attraction. You will see them perched in pairs looking for the perfect opportunity to swoop down and secure lunch or dinner for themselves! 

So, as is the case when you visit most places in Uganda, you can see an abundance of birdlife and wildlife along the Nile, adding another dimension to the white water rafting experience – perfect for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts!

Reason #5: There are great places to stay close by

Jinja is a unique town with a large expatriate community. There are lots of nice places to eat and drink, and the people that live and work in Jinja are friendly and outgoing. 

What’s more, there are lots of hotels, guesthouses, and AirBnB options in and around town, meaning that you can easily secure a room for the night before heading into town to experience Jinja’s renowned nightlife.

If you’re like me and you prefer something a little more chilled, you can find some off-the-beaten-track properties in and around Jinja, offering great accommodation options in more relaxed environments. 

If you’re looking for a recommendation, I stayed at the Adrift Lodge during my most recent visit to Jinja, and I would undoubtedly stay there again.

Reason #6: Bungeeeeee!

Bungee jump on the Nile
This is me, enjoying a splash while taking on the bungee jump at the source of the Nile!

If white water rafting isn’t thrilling enough for you, there’s a bungee jump at Jinja for you to try! During my first trip to Uganda in 2012, I did the bungee jump at Jinja and loved every minute of it! 

Like the white water rafting at Jinja, the bungee jump is safe and operated to the highest standards, ensuring strict safety measures are adhered to at all times. 

What’s unique about the Nile High bungee experience in Jinja is that you jump from the platform over the river itself – a scintillating experience in anyone’s book!

If you’re keen to crank things up a notch during your visit to Jinja, you can find out more about the Nile High Bungee here.

Reason #7: It’s the perfect way to round off (or begin) your trip!

When people arrive in Uganda for relatively short trips, it’s tempting to pack so much into a short space of time, given how much there is to see and do in the country. 

The safaris, treks, and various other experiences can lead to burnout and a less-than-relaxing trip back home. 

But heading to Jinja and kicking back with a few beers while overlooking the great River Nile is an awesome way to bring your trip to a close.

Of course, hopping in a boat and going white water rafting cranks up the adrenaline a few notches, but you can also head out for a relaxing boat trip on different sections of the river if you prefer. 

Equally, if you want to kick-start your trip to Uganda with a bang, white water rafting could be the perfect way to go about it!

How to book white water rafting in Uganda?

There are several companies that offer white water rafting in Uganda. But based on my personal experience (and going by independent reviews online), I would highly recommend Adrift for booking your white water rafting experience. 

As mentioned, they have 30+ years of experience rafting on the Nile and follow strict safety protocols to ensure that you’re rafting experience in Uganda is memorable for all the right reasons. 

You can read independent reviews of Adrift here, and if you’re keen to book a white water rafting trip, you can do so directly on their website.

How much is white water rafting in Uganda?

The cost of white water rafting in Uganda depends on various factors, but for a full-day white water rafting package from Jinja, you can expect to pay around $140.00 per person.

Recap: Is white water rafting worth it in Jinja?

Having been white water rafting in Uganda on two separate occasions, I cannot recommend it highly enough. It’s a scintillating experience offered in a stunning part of Uganda, and traveling to Jinja is worth it, even if you don’t plan on rafting down the Nile. 

So, if you’re on the fence about white water rafting in Uganda, my advice is to go for it; you certainly won’t be disappointed by the experience!

A Complete Guide to Gorilla Trekking in East Africa: Three Options! (2023)

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Gorilla trekking in East Africa – the best wildlife experience on the planet? I certainly think so!

If you’ve started researching your gorilla trekking options, you will be aware that three countries in East Africa provide gorilla trekking opportunities: Rwanda, Uganda, and DR Congo. 

In this article, I introduce you to each of these options, weighing up the pros and cons of each, before providing you with a helpful resource that will give you more information about the destination in question.

I also answer some FAQs relating to gorilla trekking in East Africa to help you make up your mind about whether you should opt for gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda, or DR Congo in 2023 and beyond!

How much is gorilla trekking in East Africa?

When you head into the forest, you do so on the gorillas’ terms! I took this photo in Bwindi National Park, during a trek in 2012.

The price of gorilla trekking in East Africa depends on the country in which you do it. In Rwanda, a permit costs $1,500; in Uganda, the same permit is $700, while a permit to trek gorillas in DR Congo costs $450. 

While the difference between gorilla trekking in each country varies significantly, you’re essentially paying for the same experience: a trek through the wilderness to spend around one hour in the company of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. 

Although it’s expensive, gorilla trekking is by far the best animal experience I have ever had, and I loved every second of my trek back in 2012. I would love to do it again someday soon, but I will need to get better at saving money!

In what remains of this article, I provide you with a complete guide to your East African gorilla trekking options in 2023. I run through the cost of the activity in each of the three countries that offer this unique wildlife adventure and help you decide which is the best option for your budget.  

I begin with the most expensive option – Rwanda – and work through to the cheapest – DR Congo. After reading through each of the options, the choice of which to opt for is very much yours!

Option #1: Gorilla trekking in Rwanda

At $1,500, gorilla trekking in Rwanda is twice the price of the same activity in neighboring Uganda and three times the price of the same activity in DR Congo. So, why is it so expensive in Rwanda? 

Well, it’s not an easy question to answer, as there are various factors that contribute to the cost of acquiring a gorilla trekking permit. I would speculate that gorilla trekking is so expensive in Rwanda because it is the country’s focal tourism activity, while Uganda has more to offer the tourists that arrive in the country each year.

What’s more, Rwanda has invested heavily in infrastructural development since the 1994 genocide, and a visit to Rwanda is extremely convenient for tourists, given the small size of the country and the ease of accessibility to its various points of interest. 

I’ve visited Rwanda on three separate occasions, and each time I’ve been struck by how organized the country is. It’s also like a microcosm of East Africa, offering stunning mountain views, lakeside retreats, and unrivaled wildlife opportunities, as evidenced primarily by gorilla trekking in the Park National Des Volcans.

But if you plan to visit Rwanda for your gorilla trekking adventure, you need to be prepared to pay the big bucks, and the fact that the cost of a permit is so much higher in Rwanda than in Uganda and DR Congo will be off-putting for many potential visitors to this part of the world.

Pros of gorilla trekking in Rwanda

  • Rwanda is super organized, with great roads and excellent tourist infrastructure, making traveling in the country largely hassle-free for tourists. 
  • The Park National Des Volcans – the location of gorilla trekking in Rwanda – is nothing short of spectacular, with incredible views and amazing photo opportunities at every turn. 
  • Many flights from Europe fly directly into Kigali, making Rwanda slightly more accessible than Uganda and DR Congo for some tourists.

Cons of gorilla trekking in Rwanda

  • The biggest downside to gorilla trekking in Rwanda is the cost. At $1,500, it is three times the price of the same activity in DR Congo and twice the price of trekking in Uganda. For some tourists, it’s simply too much money to spend.

More information?

If you would like more information about gorilla trekking in Rwanda, head to the dedicated page at Visit Rwanda.

Option #2: Gorilla trekking in Uganda

During my trek in Bwindi, I was amazed at the human likeness of gorillas. I could have spent much more than the allotted hour in their presence.

When I went gorilla trekking in 2012, I did so in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The experience was beyond my wildest expectations, and it was genuinely one of the most remarkable things I’ve ever done in my life. 

Spending an hour with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is so rewarding, and to see these guys up close and personal is something that will truly stay with me forever.

In all honestly, I didn’t choose Uganda over Rwanda or DR Congo specifically; I simply opted to go gorilla trekking in Uganda because I was in the country for another purpose. 

But when I consider the cost of the activity in Rwanda and the political instability in DR Congo, I believe that gorilla trekking in Uganda is the best option for most tourists.

Uganda is safe for tourists, and Ugandan people are extremely welcoming. In comparison, the roads and infrastructure are behind neighboring Rwanda, but Uganda more than makes up for it with access to so many wildlife opportunities in addition to gorilla trekking, with the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha just over an hour’s drive away from Bwindi National Park.

So, if I had to recommend one option over the other two, I would recommend gorilla trekking in Uganda as your best bet. I’ve listed the pros and cons below in the interest of fairness to the other destinations!

Pros of gorilla trekking in Uganda

  • At $700 for a permit, gorilla trekking in Uganda is half the price of the same activity in neighboring Rwanda. 
  • While gorilla trekking is one of the main tourist activities in Uganda, there’s so much else to see and do in the country at the same time. You can visit Queen Elizabeth NP, Murchison Falls NP, and even Kidepo NP for the ultimate safari experience. 
  • Trekking through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is an experience like no other, and it’s a true wilderness. The moment you finally see the gorillas in their natural habitat is a joy to behold, making the trek through the unforgiving terrain worth every second.

Cons of gorilla trekking in Uganda

  • Bwindi National Park is located in the extreme southwest of Uganda. If you’re traveling directly from Entebbe/Kampala and going by road, it will take you a full day (10+ hours) to reach your destination, with around 3-4 hours of the journey on bumpy murram roads. You can book a domestic flight to Kihihi Airstrip, but internal flights are expensive, and you will then need to arrange a transfer from Kihihi to Bwindi.

More information?

For more information about gorilla trekking in Uganda, visit UWA’s official listing for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Looking for a decent place to stay when you visit Bwindi for your upcoming gorilla trekking experience? Check out our piece introducing five affordable accommodation options in Bwindi.

Option #3: Gorilla trekking in DR Congo

The third and final option for gorilla trekking in East Africa is DR Congo. Disclaimer – I’ve never been to DR Congo, even though I live less than 1km from the border between Congo and Uganda! 

Although gorilla trekking in DR Congo is the cheapest option in East Africa, it is often overlooked by tourists, who favor trips to Rwanda or Uganda. 

The main reason for this is that DR Congo is not particularly safe for tourists, and there has been a lot of civil unrest in recent times, particularly in Eastern Congo, where gorilla trekking is an option.

It’s not my intention to turn this article into a discussion about politics and civil unrest in DR Congo, but you should read your government’s advice carefully before planning a trip to the country, and take out all of the necessary insurance if you do opt to go gorilla trekking there.

To highlight this point, at the time of writing, the UK Government advises against all travel to most of the regions in Eastern DR Congo. Therefore, please check and follow your government’s current advice before planning a trip to this region.

Pros of gorilla trekking in DR Congo

  • At $450, a gorilla trekking permit in DR Congo is the cheapest option in East Africa.
  • There are some fascinating places to visit in DR Congo. For instance, Nyiragongo is an active volcano close to Goma that provides incredible hiking opportunities.

Cons of gorilla trekking in DR Congo

  • At the time of writing, most governments consider travel to Eastern DRC to be unsafe and advise against it. Therefore, you should review all travel advice before planning to travel there. 
  • Although a gorilla trekking permit is comparably cheap in DRC, the lack of tourist infrastructure and the expense of hotels in Eastern DR Congo add to the overall price of your trip.

More information?

You can find out more information about gorilla trekking in DR Congo by visiting the official website of the Virunga National Park.

What are the other costs associated with gorilla trekking in Africa?

I rank my gorilla trekking experience in Uganda as one of the most incredible things I’ve ever done.

Whether you go gorilla trekking in Rwanda, Uganda, or DR Congo, the cost of the permit itself is just one of a number of things you need to think about before checking this incredible wildlife experience off your bucket list. 

Of course, you will need to think about the expense of getting to East Africa in the first place, including things like flights, visas, and inoculations. But when you’re in the region, there are a number of things that you need to prepare for. 

The biggest expense in each of the gorilla trekking regions is the cost of accommodation, which is offered at eye-watering prices.

I live just 45 minutes away from Bwindi National Park, and it blows my mind that many of the lodges that surround the National Park offer rooms for more than $1,000 per night! 

To help you find budget accommodation options in Bwindi, I’ve put together this helpful guide to affordable spots to stay in and around the National Park to alleviate the financial burden of the activity.

As well as accommodation, you need to plan for your transport to the destination. Most tourists arrange for safari companies to take them to the respective national parks in each country, which is the safest and most comfortable way of reaching the gorilla trekking destinations in East Africa. 

I’ve partnered with the good people at AJ Tours and Travel, who offer excellent rates for internal transfers in and around East Africa. They can also help you with affordable lodgings around each national park, saving you from spending the big bucks when it comes to making reservations at the most popular lodges!

Is gorilla trekking worth the price?

Something I have come to realize is that price is subjective. For some people, the thought of paying between $450 – $1,500 to spend an hour with gorillas is crazy! 

But to others, it’s the pinnacle of wildlife tourism, and the opportunity to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is worth practically any price. 

I’m in the latter of the two camps, and having been gorilla trekking; I can honestly say that it’s an incredible experience. The trek through the forest and the time spent in the company of the gorillas was absolutely worth the price I paid (I think permits were around $500 at the time).

I also spend a lot of time in Bwindi, living so close to the park, and I regularly speak to tourists who emerge from the forest, commenting on how it’s quite simply the most remarkable thing that they’ve ever done. 

So, in my personal opinion, gorilla trekking is absolutely worth the price. You should also note that a significant proportion of the fee that you pay goes towards the contribution of the mountain gorillas for future generations, which helps many people justify the price of the experience.

Do you need to get a gorilla trekking permit in advance?

While you can arrange a permit when you arrive in the country, it’s always better to get it in advance. You can arrange your permit via the three links provided earlier in this article. 

If you’re looking for a budget tour company to arrange a permit on your behalf, I again recommend my friends at AJ Tours and Travel, but you can also arrange a gorilla trekking safari with practically every tour provider in East Africa. 

The reason that it’s important to arrange your permit in advance is that each country only issues a specific number of permits on any given day, so you need to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Can you do gorilla trekking in East Africa on a budget?

Unfortunately, gorilla trekking is one of those activities that is super difficult to achieve if you’re constrained by budget. The cost of the permit, the accommodation fees, and the travel to the destination in East Africa makes it a pretty expensive experience overall. 

Of course, traveling by public means and staying in budget hotels along the way can significantly reduce the cost of gorilla trekking, but it’s still an expensive experience. 

If you’re a citizen or resident of East Africa, you can apply for a permit for a reduced fee. Again, you can find information on reduced permits via the links already provided.

The verdict: Which is the best option for gorilla trekking in East Africa?

In my humble opinion, and with all things considered, Uganda represents the best option for gorilla trekking in East Africa. But that being said, and in spite of the cost, Rwanda is also a super popular destination for this once-in-a-lifetime activity. 

While DR Congo offers the cheapest gorilla trekking permits in the region, the civil unrest in the country and the fact that most governments deem the country to be unsafe rules it out for many tourists. 

If you’ve got any questions about gorilla trekking in East Africa or would like to share your own recommendations, please do so in the comments below!

Five Fun Things to Do in Entebbe (On a Budget!)

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Looking for some fun things to do in Entebbe to kill some time before your flight home? You’ve come to the right place!

For most tourists, Entebbe is nothing more than Uganda’s international airport, and it’s a destination that many people leave soon after arriving. 

For others, it’s the site of Operation Entebbe, an infamous 1976 event involving Idi Amin and a plane full of hostages.  

Regardless of how you regard Entebbe before you visit, the reality is that you are likely to be impressed by this quaint town on the banks of Lake Victoria when you visit it for the first time. 

So, whether you visit Entebbe at the start or the end of your trip, here are five budget-friendly activities that will help you make the most of your time in this interesting and often overlooked destination in central Uganda.

5 Things to do in Entebbe without breaking the bank

No matter why you find yourself with some time to kill in Entebbe, there’s a lot to see and do, without spending a great deal of money! Here are five things to do in Entebbe that won’t cost you a fortune and will offer some nice snaps as you start or end your vacation in Uganda:

Visit Entebbe Botanical Gardens

There are lots of beautiful plants on show in Entebbe Botanical Gardens. Photo Credit: Ivan Sabayuki

One of my favorite places in Entebbe is the Botanical Gardens. While the gardens might be a little rough around the edges and unkempt when compared to botanical gardens in different parts of the world, this green oasis on the shores of Lake Victoria is perfect for exploring. 

Initially sculpted toward the end of the nineteenth century, Entebbe Botanical Gardens have stood the test of time and endured, in spite of the problems that Uganda faced with instability for large parts of the twentieth century.

It’s not amiss to say that the Botanical Gardens are the jewel in Entebbe’s crown, and you will see a huge variety of flora and fauna around the site, as well as a troop of monkeys that are equal parts friendly and mischievous. 

For the film buffs among you, part of the first Tarzan movie was filmed here, and it’s a great opportunity to get some snaps for Instagram in a super interesting location!

While you can simply pay to enter the Botanical Gardens and walk around at your leisure, I would highly recommend hiring a local guide to take you around. You can enter the gardens and hire a guide for less than $10, and the guide adds a lot to the experience, particularly as there aren’t many signs or information posts within the park.

Enjoy a sunset boat cruise on Lake Victoria

A source of income for fishermen, Lake Victoria in Entebbe is also a great place to enjoy a sunset cruise. Photo credit: Hennie Stander.

Entebbe is blessed to be on the shores of Lake Victoria, the world’s second-largest freshwater lake. Although Uganda is landlocked, Lake Victoria is more like a sea than a lake, bordering Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania and supporting millions of livelihoods in each of the countries. 

From a tourist’s perspective, Lake Victoria isn’t safe for swimming, but it is an excellent source of other activities. For instance, you can take a fishing trip out onto the lake to catch some tilapia, or you can arrange a boat trip with a number of local guides. 

In 2016, my best friend visited me in Uganda, and we took a sunset boat cruise on Lake Victoria, with a few cold beers in the canoe, to make the experience that little bit more special. It was a wonderful experience, and the fact that our guide stood up to sing the Ugandan national anthem as the sunset was as surreal as it was memorable!

While you can go to town with an expensive boat cruise (inclusive of meal/drinks/guide, etc.), you can also do a boat cruise on the cheap. Most local guides charge less than $20 to take you out on a canoe at sunset, providing you with stunning photo opportunities and a look at Uganda from the surface of the lake. A must when you’re in Entebbe.

To book a sunset cruise on Lake Victoria, simply ask the staff at your hotel or guesthouse, and they will be more than happy to make the arrangements on your behalf.

Go swimming at Lake Victoria Hotel

The vast majority of guesthouses in Entebbe don’t have a swimming pool, but that’s not a problem thanks to the presence of the Lake Victoria Hotel. LVH is on the main road and is unmissable as you travel from the airport to the center of Entebbe.

The hotel itself predates independence, and it’s a charming, colonial-style hotel that is part of the fabric of Entebbe town. The problem with LVH is that it’s expensive to stay at, with rooms anywhere between $150 and $250. But the good news is that you don’t need to stay there to take advantage of the hotel’s star attraction – the swimming pool.

You can pay 25,000 UGX (around $7) for a day-guest pass at Lake Victoria Hotel, which provides you with a towel and unlimited access to what is undoubtedly the best swimming pool in Entebbe.

There are three diving boards and a kids’ pool, as well as a poolside bar and restaurant that serves up delicious international fayre. Every time I’ve been to LVH for swimming, there’s been a nice mixture of locals and tourists, as well as kids enjoying the outdoor swimming pool. 

The bottom line is that spending an afternoon at the Lake Victoria Hotel’s poolside is an incredible way to start your holiday or round things off as you prepare to fly home. It’s a truly excellent way to spend your time in Entebbe while getting some respite from the Ugandan sun.

Shop for souvenirs at the Craft Market

While I’m not a huge fan of shopping, my wife loves spending time at Entebbe’s craft market. There are lots of places to buy crafts in Uganda, but leaving your shopping until the end of your trip is a smart move. 

You can visit Entebbe craft market on your last day in Uganda and stock up on souvenirs and gifts for people back home. It’s located directly opposite Victoria Mall, so you can’t miss it when you’re in Entebbe town. 

Having been to craft shops in different parts of the country, I can say that the Entebbe Craft Market has practically everything you could possibly want, from t-shirts to household ornaments and fabrics.

In terms of price, you need to be prepared to haggle when you visit Entebbe Craft Market. As a general rule of thumb, if a vendor tells you that something is 50,000 UGX, offer 25,000. You can then proceed with your negotiations and meet somewhere in the middle. 

This isn’t to say that people are trying to rip you off. Rather, they know that tourists always negotiate when trying to buy souvenirs, so retailers suggest an initial price in the knowledge that they’re going to have to sell their products for a lower price.

Sip rooftop cocktails @ K Hotels

Entebbe isn’t short of bars and restaurants, but the rooftop bar at K Hotels is an excellent place to enjoy dinner and drinks. You can order cocktails, local beers, and international spirits while enjoying an incredible view across Entebbe, out to Lake Victoria, and back toward the airport. 

The food at K Hotels is also delicious, with Asian-infused dishes to choose from on the in-house menu. The last time I spent a Friday night at K Hotels, dancers provided entertainment as the sun set behind the building. 

Even if you don’t want to eat there, the rooftop bar at K Hotels offers an excellent option for pre-or post-dinner drinks, and enjoying cocktails as the sunsets across Entebbe is a wonderful way to start or end your vacation.

And one to avoid…

Everyone is different, but I personally have a thing against zoos. I would never visit a zoo in the UK, and I avoid them wherever I am in the world. Entebbe has a zoo – or at least a Wildlife Education Centre – and I’ve never actually been to it, so I can’t tell you what it’s like. 

What I will say, however, is that you’re visiting a country in which wildlife abounds in the natural world, from the monkeys in Entebbe Botanical Garden to the tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

As such, there’s not really any reason to visit Entebbe’s Zoo, as you can see animals in their natural habitat in this beautiful country. Regardless of your opinion of zoos and animal captivity, there’s no reason to visit a zoo in Uganda when you have an abundance of wildlife opportunities at your fingertips in the country’s national parks.

Recap: Five fun things to do in Entebbe

Although many tourists regard Entebbe as the gateway to the rest of Uganda and nothing more, the reality is that this leafy town that houses Uganda’s only international airport actually has a lot of interesting things to see and do. 

So, while you might not be planning to visit Uganda to explore Entebbe, the above activities are great options to consider as you arrive or just before you leave, ensuring that you make the most out of your time spent in Uganda’s main point of entry.

Queen Elizabeth Self-Drive Safari (Ten Tips!)

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Planning a Queen Elizabeth self-drive safari? If so, you’ve come to the right place!

Queen Elizabeth National Park is situated in southwestern Uganda and is one of the main tourist destinations in the country. 

As a result, lots of people plan a Queen Elizabeth National Park self-drive while on vacation in Uganda, as it’s a truly memorable experience amidst a stunning natural environment. 

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve embarked upon a self-drive safari in QENP, as I live just thirty minutes from the park entrance. 

My recent forays into the park have been to try and catch a glimpse of the elusive shoebill – Uganda’s legendary pre-historic bird – but I’m yet to be successful! There’s always another time.

But on my last trip to Queen Elizabeth, I had the idea to put together this blog post to provide information to people heading into the park for the first time without a guide. 

So, without further ado, here are ten Queen Elizabeth self drive safari tips that will help you plan your trip to one of Uganda’s premier tourist destinations.

Ten Essential Queen Elizabeth Self Drive Safari Tips!

Heading out into the wilderness on your own terms is the best thing about a self-drive safari. So, to prepare for your adventure, here are ten essential Queen Elizabeth self drive safari tips to bear in mind!

Tip #1: Hire a good vehicle (4WD is essential!)

Queen Elizabeth National Park actually has a main road running through it from Kasese to Kihihi. But that doesn’t mean that the roads are in good shape, and the vast majority of the ‘main’ road is murram, not tarmac. 

All of the tracks within QENP are essentially dirt tracks, and a 4WD is an absolute essential, particularly when you enter the park during the wet season. If you’ve never driven in sub-Saharan Africa before, you will quickly come to realize the value of a 4WD after a short time in the park!

There are several car hire companies operating in Uganda, but I highly recommend RoadTrip Africa. I’ve hired a vehicle from them on three separate occasions, and I’ve never once had a problem with the car or the level of service provided. 

If you’re planning a self-drive in QENP, you should opt for at least a Toyota Rav4, but you can also opt for a slightly bigger vehicle like a Land Cruiser if you wish. RoadTrip Africa offers 4WDs starting from around $50 per day, which is about the cheapest you can expect in Uganda for car hire.

Tip #2: Consider hiring a ranger

Now that you’ve got your hire car, it’s time to head to the park. When you arrive at Queen Elizabeth National Park, you will have to pay a park entrance fee (per 24 hours you plan to spend there) as well as a charge for the vehicle itself. 

The cost of park entrance changes from time to time, but you can find the current cost of entering the park here, thanks to the latest information from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

When you arrive at the park entrance, you will be offered the opportunity to hire a ranger. This is essentially an armed UWA official who will escort you through the park, helping you navigate the tracks and potentially improving your chances of spotting elusive animals like lions and leopards.

You don’t need to hire a ranger, and every time I have done a self-drive safari in QENP, I’ve gone it alone, without a park ranger in the vehicle. Still, it’s worth considering if you’re visiting the park for the first time, as it can enhance the experience. 

You can find the fees associated with hiring a ranger in the UWA information pack linked above.

Tip #3: Pack supplies and fill up with fuel

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a vast wilderness with very little in the way of supplies when you enter the park. The towns of Kasese and Kihihi at either end of the park are your best options for stocking up on supplies, depending on the route that you take into the park. 

My advice is to fill your car up with fuel before reaching the park (obviously!), and the same is true for food and drink. Unless you’re planning lunch at one of the lodges in the park, there are only a few local trading centers (there’s one by the Kazinga Channel, for instance) where you can stock up on supplies. 

So, to make sure you’re all set before reaching the park, load the trunk with water, snacks, and other essential supplies just in case you get stuck in the mud and are awaiting rescue! It can get pretty hot out on the savannah, so you need to have an adequate supply of water in the vehicle – just in case.

Tip #4: Don’t drive off the tracks

One of the famous tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha Sector of QENP. Photo credit: Maarten van den Heuvel

When you enter the park for the first time, you will likely be giddy with excitement (I always am!). You have this incredible wilderness in front of you that’s all yours to explore and the chance to see some stunning wildlife in the process. 

Queen Elizabeth NP is connected via a number of tracks that have been given different names for ease of navigation. You can actually buy a map from the park entrance (it’s around $10), and it’s a huge help when you get your safari underway, particularly if you don’t have a ranger in the vehicle with you. 

It’s really important for several reasons that you don’t drive off the tracks. First and foremost, you’re not allowed to do so, and you will be slapped with a hefty fine (I think off-roading in the park results in a fine of $150).

It’s also a bad idea because the terrain immediately next to the track is unpredictable and could cause your vehicle to get stuck. Also, by heading off track, you might disturb the wildlife living in the long grass, which is a big no-no.

So, even if you spot a leopard up a tree that is not served by a track, keep your distance and respect the tracks – it’s unfair to go off-road and can land you in trouble.

Tip #5: Drive slowly

If you think the potholes on normal Ugandan roads are bad, wait until you get into Queen Elizabeth National Park. The tracks are poorly maintained and aren’t in great shape, no matter the time of year you visit. 

So, it’s really important to take it easy and stick to the speed limit when you’re in the park. There’s no need to race around, as you could easily damage your vehicle by doing so. 

What’s more, if you’re driving too fast, you risk missing out on some awesome wildlife sightings, as going on safari is all about looking carefully through the tall grass to see if you can spot something!

Ultimately, you’re on vacation – so there’s no need to rush around the park!

Tip #6: Animals always have the right of way

This might seem like an obvious thing to say, but animals always have the right of way in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The same is true for animals in every other wildlife reserve in East Africa. 

The best way to look at it is that you’re a guest in the animal kingdom, and they have the right to do whatever is natural to them. If an elephant decides to stand in the middle of the road for 30 minutes, that’s his prerogative. You just have to sit and wait patiently for him to move! 

This point goes hand in hand with the last one and is another reason why it’s so important to drive slowly within the park.

Wild animals are completely unpredictable, and you need to be driving slowly enough to stop suddenly if something jumps into your path unexpectedly.

Again, there’s no rush when you’re driving around the park, so take your time and be sure to give animals the right of way throughout your safari.

Tip #7: Don’t get out of the car

There’s something truly liberating about a Queen Elizabeth National Park self-drive. After all, you’re in the wilderness on your own, and there’s a great chance of spotting a huge range of wildlife. 

But equally, some stretches of your safari can seem a little long and repetitive, given that the park is so big and there are only so many animals within its boundaries. But whatever you do, you should not be tempted to get out of the car. 

QENP is home to lions, leopards, hippos, elephants, crocodiles, snakes, and a whole host of other animals that can potentially cause you harm. Even if you think the coast is clear, it’s impossible to know what’s around you, and you put yourself in danger if you step out of the vehicle.

If you want to go on a walking safari, you should head instead to Lake Mburo– Queen Elizabeth National Park is not the place to go wandering through the bush!

Tip #8: Ask guides for animal sighting tips

Elephants are a common sight in QENP. But to see more elusive animals like leopards and hyenas, a guide is helpful. Photo credit: Social Income.

One of the only downsides of a Queen Elizabeth National Park self-drive is the fact that you don’t have a knowledgeable guide in the car with you. When you organize a safari through a tour company, the guide knows where animal sightings are most likely and is connected to other guides and park rangers who advise them where to go. 

However, just because you don’t have a guide in the car, it doesn’t mean that you can’t take advantage of their knowledge. When you see a tourist vehicle pulled over on one of the tracks, take the initiative to engage the driver in conversation.

They will be more than happy to share their recent animal sightings with you and will tell you where to head if you’re looking for something in particular – the tree-climbing lions are perhaps QENP’s biggest draw!

If you don’t engage the guides that are currently within the park, you might not be able to find the best locations for specific sightings, so it’s an important step to take if you’re on a self-drive safari in Uganda.

Tip #9: Plan your exit

The Ugandan day runs from 7 am to 7 pm, and this correlates with the opening and closing times of the national park. It gets dark in Uganda immediately after 7 pm, and you’re not allowed in the park after dark. 

I’ve been caught out by this on several safaris, and it’s not a pleasant experience! It’s extremely difficult to see where you’re going in the dark of night, and of course, it’s a lot more dangerous to be out alone at night. 

Therefore, to avoid getting stuck in the park after dark, make sure you plan your exit. What I mean by this is that you shouldn’t be heading to the middle of the park at 5 pm, leaving you several hours away from an entrance/exit when the hours of darkness arrive.

Of course, on a pre-arranged safari, your guide will deal with timings. But when you’re on a Queen Elizabeth National Park self-drive, you’re responsible for leaving the park at the right time. 

So, consult your map and make sure that you’re not too far away from an exit as 7 pm approaches.

Tip #10: Enjoy the experience!

My final Queen Elizabeth self drive safari tip is a simple one – enjoy the experience!

Sure, there’s a lot to think about in order to prepare for a Queen Elizabeth National Park self-drive, but the main thing is that you need to enjoy the experience! 

It will prove to be an extremely exciting adventure, and you will find that it will almost certainly be memorable for all the right reasons.

The bottom line: Planning your Queen Elizabeth Self Drive Safari

If you follow the tips listed in this guide, I’m sure you’ll have a successful trip to Uganda’s most impressive national park, and I hope you have a wonderful time. 

Should you have any questions about your upcoming self-drive safari, or if you want to share tips with other travelers, leave a comment below!

If your upcoming Queen Elizabeth self drive will be your first experience of driving in Uganda, check out my recent post containing tips for driving in Uganda as a tourist!

You might also find my step-by-step instructions to planning a self-drive safari useful, as you prepare for your trip to Queen Elizabeth National Park.