CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Discover the Beauty of Mount Elgon National Park

Nestled on the eastern border of Uganda, where the lush landscapes of Africa begin to rise into the sky, lies one of the continent’s most underrated treasures—Mount Elgon National Park. While Uganda is world-renowned for its mountain gorillas and lush rainforests, few places blend adventure, culture, and biodiversity quite like Mount Elgon. At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we invite you to explore this magnificent park, where your safari is more than just a trip—it’s an unforgettable journey into one of Africa’s oldest and largest volcanic mountains.

Why Choose Mount Elgon?
Mount Elgon may not roar with lions or thunder with elephants like some other African parks, but it offers something even more rare—tranquility, diversity, and authenticity. Spanning over 1,100 square kilometers, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is home to rich montane forests, cascading waterfalls, mysterious caves, and dramatic calderas. At 4,321 meters, Mount Elgon’s Wagagai peak is Uganda’s second-highest, offering spectacular hiking without the crowds of Kilimanjaro or the technical climbs of the Rwenzoris.

Wildlife Encounters
Though not known for the Big Five, Mount Elgon hosts a surprising array of wildlife. On your safari with us, expect to encounter:

  • Forest elephants and buffaloes
  • Blue monkeys, black-and-white colobus, and De Brazza’s monkeys
  • Over 300 bird species, including the endangered Lammergeier and the dazzling Tacazze sunbird

And for the botanically inclined, the park’s ancient Afro-montane forest bursts with endemic plant species and gigantic lobelias that seem to belong in a fantasy novel.

A Hiker’s Paradise

Mount Elgon is ideal for both seasoned trekkers and first-time hikers. With several scenic trails like the Sasa, Sipi, and Piswa routes, each step is an invitation into breathtaking vistas, peaceful bamboo forests, and the surreal vastness of the caldera—one of the largest in the world. At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, our expert guides customize treks to match your fitness level, ensuring a safe, enriching experience.

Don’t Miss: The Sipi Falls

No visit to Mount Elgon is complete without witnessing the Sipi Falls—a trio of waterfalls plunging down rugged cliffs on the mountain’s western slopes. Whether you’re here to hike, abseil, or simply take in the views, Sipi offers the perfect blend of adrenaline and awe.

Cultural Encounters

Your journey with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours isn’t just about nature—it’s also about people. We’ll introduce you to the Bagisu and Sabiny communities, known for their vibrant traditions, coffee farming, and warm hospitality. Participate in a traditional coffee-making experience or witness the ancient Imbalu circumcision ceremonies if you visit in the right season.

Combine With Gorilla Trekking

One of the best parts of visiting Mount Elgon is how well it pairs with a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Let Safari 2 Gorilla Tours craft a tailor-made itinerary that includes both highland exploration and once-in-a-lifetime encounters with mountain gorillas.

Ready to Explore Mount Elgon?

Whether you’re an adventure traveler, a nature lover, or a curious soul looking for the path less traveled, Mount Elgon National Park is calling. Join Safari 2 Gorilla Tours  and uncover the beauty, mystery, and serenity of Uganda’s hidden highlands.

Contact us here today to book your safari or customize your dream itinerary. The mountain awaits.

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Kidepo Valley National Park Untamed Uganda Safari

Looking for a safari experience that’s off the beaten path? Kidepo Valley National Park, located in Uganda’s remote northeastern corner, offers an adventure like no other. This wild, untamed park is a must-visit for anyone seeking rare wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and a taste of Uganda’s rich cultural heritage. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Kidepo with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours.

How to Get There

Getting to Kidepo is part of the adventure! The park is in a remote area, which means it’s less crowded and offers an authentic safari experience. Here are your travel options:

  • By Road: If you’re up for a road trip, you can drive from Kampala (Uganda’s capital) to Kidepo, which takes around 8–10 hours. This journey is a beautiful and scenic route through Uganda’s countryside, passing through villages and rolling hills along the way. It’s a great way to see the heart of Uganda.
  • By Air: For a quicker, more comfortable journey, take a charter flight from Entebbe or Kampala to Kidepo’s airstrip. The flight takes just about 1.5 hours, offering incredible aerial views of the savannah and mountains below.

Accommodation Options in Kidepo
Whether you’re looking for luxury or something more budget-friendly, Kidepo offers a variety of places to stay:

  • Luxury: Apoka Safari Lodge – A luxurious lodge set in the heart of Kidepo Valley, offering spacious tented suites with stunning views of the plains. Relax by the pool after a game drive or indulge in gourmet meals prepared with local ingredients.
  • Mid-Range: Kidepo Savannah Lodge – Comfortable cottages with beautiful views of the surrounding savannah. This is a great mid-range option for those who want to enjoy the park’s beauty without compromising on comfort.
  • Budget: Kidepo Valley Camp – For those who want to get closer to nature, this rustic and eco-friendly camp is the perfect option. It’s simple, but it offers an authentic safari experience, and it’s budget-friendly.

Activities You Can’t Miss

Kidepo is a treasure trove of activities that will immerse you in its unique wildlife and culture. Here’s a list of the must-do experiences:

  1. Game Drives: Explore Kidepo’s vast, open savannah and encounter lions, elephants, giraffes, cheetahs, and more. The park is home to some of Uganda’s most elusive species, including the rare caracal and the bat-eared fox.
  2. Cultural Visits: Meet the Karamojong and Ik communities, two of Uganda’s most fascinating indigenous groups. Learn about their traditional lifestyles, herding practices, and the challenges they face in this arid region.
  3. Bird Watching: With over 470 species of birds, Kidepo is a paradise for birdwatchers. Don’t miss the chance to spot rare species like ostriches, Secretary birds, and more.
  4. Walking Safaris: Head out on foot with a guide to experience the park from a different perspective. Walking safaris allow you to get closer to nature and learn about the flora and fauna up close.
  5. Photography Safaris: Kidepo offers some of Uganda’s most dramatic landscapes, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Capture wildlife, stunning sunsets, and vast plains with the guidance of an expert photographer.

Extension Trips – Combine Kidepo with Other Uganda Adventures

Kidepo is a fantastic standalone destination, but it also pairs wonderfully with other iconic Uganda experiences. Here are a few options to extend your adventure:

  • Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi or Mgahinga: After your Kidepo safari, why not head to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga National Park for a once-in-a-lifetime experience? Trek through the jungle to find the elusive mountain gorillas and spend an hour watching these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
  • Murchison Falls National Park: Combine your trip with a visit to Murchison Falls, where you can see the world’s most powerful waterfall, enjoy boat safaris along the Nile, and spot a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and hippos.
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park: Extend your adventure to Queen Elizabeth and explore the famous Kazinga Channel, known for its incredible wildlife and abundant birdlife. The park is also home to lions, elephants, and leopards.

Why Choose Safari 2 Gorilla Tours?

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we specialize in creating tailored, unforgettable travel experiences. Whether you’re looking for an intimate safari in Kidepo or an adventurous extension to see the gorillas, we’ll design the perfect itinerary just for you.

Ready to experience Kidepo Valley and beyond? Reach out today to start planning your perfect Uganda safari with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours!

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Explore Nyungwe National Park | Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

Nestled in the misty highlands of southwestern Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity and natural beauty. As one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, this lush paradise is bursting with life — from playful chimpanzees to vibrant birds and towering mahoganies. At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we invite you to experience the wild heart of Rwanda through immersive and expertly guided safaris into Nyungwe.

Why Nyungwe Should Be on Your Bucket List
Nyungwe isn’t just another national park — it’s an ecosystem teeming with unique flora and fauna, dramatic landscapes, and meaningful cultural experiences. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a passionate birder, or just looking to connect with nature, Nyungwe offers something unforgettable.

Top Activities to Enjoy in Nyungwe National Park

Here’s what you can look forward to on your adventure with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours:

1. Chimpanzee Trekking

Go deep into the forest with experienced guides to track wild chimpanzees. Watching them swing through the trees or forage on the forest floor is both thrilling and humbling.

2. Canopy Walk Experience

Cross Africa’s highest forest canopy bridge — suspended 70 meters above ground — for sweeping views and a real adrenaline rush.

3. Colobus Monkey Trekking

Spot large troops of Ruwenzori colobus monkeys, often seen in groups of over 300. They’re one of the most iconic primates in the park.

4. Scenic Forest Hikes

With more than 15 hiking trails covering over 130 kilometers, there’s a trail for every level of adventure:

  • Igishigishigi Trail (great canopy views)
  • Isumo Trail (leads to a stunning waterfall)
  • Bigugu Trail (a summit hike with panoramic views)
  • Kamiranzovu Trail (wetlands and crater-like scenery)

5. Bird Watching

Nyungwe is a birder’s paradise, home to more than 300 bird species — including 29 Albertine Rift endemics like the Rwenzori turaco and red-collared babbler.

6. Visit Isumo Waterfall

Hike through thick forest and cross wooden bridges to reach this powerful and picturesque waterfall, tucked in the heart of the park.

7. Cultural Experiences

Learn about the local communities surrounding Nyungwe. Visit tea plantations, enjoy traditional music and dance, and participate in cultural storytelling.

8. Butterfly and Nature Watching

Keep your eyes open for over 100 butterfly species and countless fascinating insects, reptiles, and flowering plants that make Nyungwe so special.

9. Forest Picnics and Photography

Relax at scenic picnic spots or take advantage of the incredible photo opportunities throughout the park — especially on the canopy walkway or at the waterfall.

Best Time to Visit Nyungwe

The best time to explore Nyungwe is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February. Trails are easier to navigate, and wildlife viewing is generally more reliable.

How to Get There

Nyungwe is a scenic 5–6 hour drive from Kigali. Safari 2 Gorilla Tours provides private 4×4 transport, knowledgeable guides, and options to combine your Nyungwe trip with other iconic Rwandan destinations like Volcanoes National Park and Lake Kivu.

Plan Your Nyungwe Safari with Us

We offer flexible itineraries to suit your interests and budget.

Ready to Explore Nyungwe?

Let Safari 2 Gorilla Tours take you into the heart of Rwanda’s most beautiful rainforest. Contact us here today to book your unforgettable Nyungwe safari.

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Top Safari Highlights in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park offers an unforgettable safari in the heart of Uganda, filled with wildlife, stunning scenery, and unique ecosystems

Located in western Uganda, the park features savannah plains, crater lakes, wetlands, and lush forests, making it one of the most diverse national parks in East Africa

It is the perfect destination for anyone seeking authentic wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes

Wildlife You Will Encounter

The park is home to over 95 mammal species and more than 600 types of birds

Spot lions, leopards, buffaloes, elephants, and the famous tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha Sector

See hippos and crocodiles along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George, teeming with aquatic life and birds

Watch Uganda kob grazing across open plains while birdwatchers enjoy sightings of shoebill storks, kingfishers, and flamingos

Must-See Safari Highlights
1) Ishasha Sector

Located in the southern part of the park, the Ishasha Sector is renowned for its rare tree-climbing lions resting in fig and acacia trees

This area also features open savannah and large herds of buffalo, elephants, and topi, making it a must-visit for game viewing

2) Kazinga Channel

A boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel is one of the best ways to experience the park

The channel is home to the largest population of hippos in Africa, as well as crocodiles, elephants at the shoreline, and hundreds of bird species

3) Kyambura Gorge

Often called the Valley of Apes, Kyambura Gorge is a lush underground forest known for its chimpanzee trekking experiences

Surrounded by savannah, the gorge offers a dramatic change in landscape and a chance to encounter primates in a truly wild setting

Exciting Safari Activities

Go on game drives through Kasenyi and Ishasha for predator sightings and diverse wildlife

Cruise the Kazinga Channel for unmatched water-based viewing of hippos, birds, and elephants

Hike through Kyambura Gorge to track chimpanzees and explore a unique tropical ecosystem

Enhance your journey with nature walks and cultural visits to nearby communities

Safari Options Available

Choose from short wildlife safaris or extend your journey by combining Queen Elizabeth with other parks

Popular options include 3-day safaris or extended trips featuring Bwindi gorilla trekking

All tours are guided by experts and can be customized to suit your interests and travel style

Combine Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife

Queen Elizabeth National Park’s close proximity to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest makes it easy to create a full Ugandan safari experience

Enjoy thrilling big game drives in Ishasha and tranquil moments with mountain gorillas in the misty forest

Plan Your Safari Adventure

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a diverse and exciting destination offering iconic landscapes, exceptional wildlife, and unforgettable safari moments for every traveler

Book your safari adventure today with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours and experience the best of Uganda’s wildlife! Whether you want to explore the Kazinga Channel, spot tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, or trek for gorillas in Bwindi, we’ve got you covered. Start planning your unforgettable journey here now!

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Beyond Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda is world-famous for its iconic mountain gorilla trekking experience. But for those who travel with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, the adventure doesn’t end there. This lush, volcanic region offers a wide range of unforgettable activities—from golden monkey tracking and volcano hikes to immersive cultural visits and cross-border wildlife safaris into Uganda and Tanzania.

For travelers who want to go deeper, there’s a whole world to explore beyond the gorillas.

Discover More in Volcanoes National Park

1) Golden Monkey Tracking

One of the most rewarding wildlife experiences in Volcanoes National Park is tracking the endangered golden monkeys. These bright, lively primates are found only in the Virunga Mountains and are known for their playful behavior and social nature. The trek is generally shorter and less strenuous than gorilla trekking, making it ideal for families and casual hikers.

2) Visit the Gorilla Museum at Gorilla Guardians Village

Located near the park headquarters in Kinigi, the Gorilla Museum offers fascinating insight into Rwanda’s conservation journey. Here, you’ll discover the story of how former poachers became protectors of wildlife through community-based initiatives. Exhibits showcase gorilla behavior, conservation history, and traditional Rwandan culture—making it an enriching stop either before or after your gorilla trek.

3) Dian Fossey Hike

Hiking to the tomb of primatologist Dian Fossey is a meaningful way to connect with the legacy of gorilla conservation. The trail winds through misty forest and leads to the ruins of her Karisoke Research Center, nestled between Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke. Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of flora and fauna, and gain a deeper understanding of Fossey’s impact on global conservation efforts.

4) Mount Bisoke Crater Lake Hike

For adventure seekers, hiking Mount Bisoke is a highlight of the region. This dormant volcano offers a challenging yet rewarding full-day trek. At the summit, you’ll be greeted by a stunning crater lake and panoramic views stretching across Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The trail is steep but scenic, making it one of the most memorable hikes in Rwanda.

5) Cultural Encounters at Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village

A visit to the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village provides an authentic introduction to traditional Rwandan life. Guests can enjoy live performances of Intore dance and drumming, try their hand at basket weaving or spear throwing, and learn about local healing practices and community customs. The experience is both engaging and impactful, as it supports local families who were once involved in poaching and have now become champions of conservation.

Extend Your Safari Across Rwanda

Safari 2 Gorilla Tours can expand your journey across Rwanda’s other must-see parks for a diverse, all-encompassing itinerary.

1) Nyungwe Forest National Park

In the south of Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and a sanctuary for over 13 primate species. Chimpanzee tracking is the top attraction, offering a high-energy trek through dense forest as you follow vocal, fast-moving troops. Nyungwe is also home to the famous Canopy Walkway—a suspended bridge with breathtaking views above the rainforest—and hundreds of bird species, many of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift.

2) Akagera National Park

On the eastern border with Tanzania lies Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s only savanna ecosystem and home to the Big Five. The park offers classic safari game drives, boat trips on Lake Ihema, and excellent bird watching. You may spot elephants, lions, rhinos, zebras, buffalo, and hippos all in one day. Akagera is a conservation success story, having reintroduced lions and rhinos after years of absence, and it complements Rwanda’s forest parks perfectly.

Cross-Border Extensions into Uganda and Tanzania

Your adventure doesn’t have to stop at Rwanda’s borders. With Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, you can seamlessly extend your safari into Uganda and Tanzania, creating a multi-country itinerary filled with wildlife and culture.

Uganda Safari Extensions
Crossing into southwestern Uganda gives you access to some of East Africa’s best wildlife destinations. In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you can enjoy more intimate gorilla trekking opportunities. Mgahinga National Park offers both golden monkey tracking and volcano hikes. Meanwhile, Queen Elizabeth National Park provides a chance to see tree-climbing lions, buffalo, and hippos during game drives or boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel. A stop at Lake Bunyonyi offers a peaceful, scenic place to relax between treks.

Tanzania Safari Extensions

If you’re dreaming of a traditional East African safari, Tanzania is an ideal extension. Explore the vast savannas of the Serengeti, time your visit with the Great Migration, or descend into the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater to see dense concentrations of wildlife in a breathtaking landscape. Additional destinations such as Tarangire and Lake Manyara offer elephant herds, baobab-dotted landscapes, and dramatic views. We take care of all logistics, flights, and cross-border arrangements so you can travel without stress.

Travel Responsibly with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

Our commitment goes beyond unforgettable safaris. We believe in conservation-focused, community-based travel that leaves a positive impact. By traveling with us, you support protected areas, provide income to local families, and contribute to wildlife conservation across East Africa.

Let’s Build Your East African Safari

Whether you want a short gorilla trekking getaway or a two-week cross-border safari, Safari 2 Gorilla Tours will design a personalized journey that fits your interests, time, and travel style. From rainforest treks to savanna game drives, from primate encounters to cultural immersion—your perfect African adventure begins here.

Contact us here today to plan your safari beyond gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Big Five Safari Adventure in Akagera National Park

Nestled in the eastern part of Rwanda, Akagera National Park is one of Africa’s most scenic and biodiverse parks—an extraordinary destination for wildlife lovers seeking a classic safari experience in the heart of East Africa. At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we offer immersive, guided safari experiences through Akagera, where you can explore the park’s untamed beauty and remarkable Big Five encounters.

Why Choose Akagera National Park?

Unlike the volcanic highlands of northern Rwanda, Akagera is a lush savannah park characterized by vast plains, rolling hills, and shimmering lakes. It’s Rwanda’s only Big Five park, home to lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo—as well as giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and over 500 bird species, including the elusive shoebill stork.

Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveler, Akagera offers an intimate, uncrowded experience—ideal for photography, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the raw beauty of Africa.

What to Expect on Your Safari

When you book with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, your Akagera safari is more than just a game drive. We offer:

  • Full-Day Game Drives with expert guides who know the park’s hidden wildlife hotspots.
  • Boat Safaris on Lake Ihema, perfect for spotting hippos, crocodiles, and aquatic birds at sunset.
  • Luxury and Mid-Range Lodging, including stays at Ruzizi Tented Lodge and Akagera Game Lodge.
  • Customizable Itineraries that can be combined with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park for a complete Rwandan adventure.

Why Safari 2 Gorilla Tours?

We’re more than just a tour company—we’re passionate storytellers and conservation advocates. With years of experience in Rwandan safaris and a strong focus on sustainable tourism, Safari 2 Gorilla Tours ensures every journey is authentic, responsible, and unforgettable.

Sample Itinerary: 2-Day Akagera Safari

Day 1:

Depart Kigali for Akagera, enjoy an afternoon game drive, check in to your lodge by the lakeside.

Day 2:

Early morning game drive to catch predators on the hunt, followed by a boat cruise. Return to Kigali in the evening.

Ready for Your Rwandan Safari?

If you’re looking to add a Big Five safari to your gorilla trekking adventure, Akagera National Park is the perfect complement. Let Safari 2 Gorilla Tours be your guide to the wild wonders of Rwanda.

Contact us here today to start planning your unforgettable Akagera safari experience!

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Explore Mabamba Swamp | Uganda’s Birding Hotspot

Uganda is often celebrated as the Pearl of Africa for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and unmatched wildlife experiences. Among its best-kept secrets is Mabamba Swamp, a lush wetland paradise tucked along the shores of Lake Victoria. For birding enthusiasts and nature lovers, this RAMSAR-listed site is a must-visit—and with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, your adventure here becomes truly unforgettable.

Why Visit Mabamba Swamp?

Mabamba Swamp is globally recognized for being one of the best places to spot the elusive Shoebill Stork—a prehistoric-looking bird that draws birders from across the world. This rare and majestic species thrives in the papyrus-lined channels of Mabamba, offering visitors a rare chance for close-up sightings by traditional wooden canoes.

But the Shoebill is just the beginning.

Mabamba boasts over 300 bird species, making it a hotspot for birdwatching in Uganda. Expect to see:

  • African Jacana
  • Malachite Kingfisher
  • Blue-breasted Bee-eater
  • African Fish Eagle
  • Papyrus Gonolek
  • Spur-winged Goose
  • Swamp Flycatcher

Whether you’re an avid ornithologist or a casual traveler, the rich birdlife and serene environment make for a magical experience.

The Experience with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we craft birding safaris that immerse you in the natural rhythms of Uganda’s wetlands. Your Mabamba tour begins with a scenic drive from Entebbe or Kampala, followed by a guided canoe excursion into the heart of the swamp.

Our expert birding guides know every hidden channel and call, giving you the best chance to spot the Shoebill and other wetland species. We operate eco-friendly tours that respect the fragile environment while providing top-tier hospitality.

What’s included in the Mabamba Swamp Tour:

  • Comfortable transport to and from the swamp
  • Professional birding guide
  • Canoe boat trip with a local paddler
  • Bottled water and light refreshments
  • Optional extension to nearby attractions like Entebbe Botanical Gardens

Best Time to Visit Mabamba Swamp

The swamp is open year-round, but the best birding occurs during dry seasons: from December to February and June to August. Early mornings are particularly ideal, as the Shoebill is more active and easier to spot at dawn.

Combine Mabamba with Gorilla Trekking

Why stop at birds? Safari 2 Gorilla Tours offers custom wildlife packages that include both Mabamba Swamp and gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. It’s the ultimate Ugandan adventure: from shoebills to silverbacks.

Book Your Mabamba Swamp Birding Tour Today

Ready to witness the rare Shoebill Stork and explore Uganda’s spectacular wetlands? Let Safari 2 Gorilla Tours be your guide to one of Africa’s richest birding experiences.

Contact us here today to customize your Mabamba Swamp excursion or build it into a multi-day Uganda safari.

Safari 2 Gorilla Tours – Where Every Journey is a Wild Encounter.

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Lake Mburo National Park Safari | A Hidden Wildlife Gem in Uganda

Discover Uganda’s Best-Kept Safari Secret

Nestled between the lush hills of western Uganda, Lake Mburo National Park is one of the country’s most underrated safari destinations. It’s small, scenic, and easily accessible—making it a perfect stop for travelers starting or ending their journey in Entebbe or Kigali. With its rich wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and cultural heritage, Lake Mburo is a peaceful escape from the more crowded national parks.

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we craft personalized itineraries to help you make the most of your Lake Mburo experience—and connect it seamlessly with other unforgettable destinations in East Africa.

Top Reasons to Visit Lake Mburo National Park

1. Unique Wildlife Viewing

Lake Mburo is the only national park in Uganda where you can see impalas and has one of the country’s highest populations of zebras and eland antelope. Other common sightings include buffalo, topi, bushbuck, hippos, and warthogs.

2. Birdwatching Paradise

With over 300 bird species, including the African finfoot, white-winged warbler, and even the rare shoebill, Lake Mburo is a haven for bird enthusiasts.

3. Variety of Safari Activities

• Game drives

• Boat cruises on Lake Mburo

• Guided nature walks

• Horseback safaris

• Sport fishing

Getting There: From Entebbe and Kigali

From Entebbe (Uganda)

Lake Mburo is about 4.5 to 5 hours (240 km) by road from Entebbe International Airport. The drive is scenic, passing through the equator line in Kayabwe, where many travelers stop for photos and souvenir shopping.

From Kigali (Rwanda)

Lake Mburo is also easily reached from Kigali, about 5–6 hours by road (280 km) via the Katuna or Kyanika border crossings. This makes it a strategic stop between gorilla trekking in Bwindi and city tours in Kigali.

Safari 2 Gorilla Tours provides comfortable cross-border transport, including border support and itinerary coordination.

Nearby Safari Extensions to Consider

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (5–6 hours away)

Add a life-changing gorilla trekking experience to your Lake Mburo safari. Bwindi is home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas.

2. Queen Elizabeth National Park (3–4 hours away)

Spot tree-climbing lions, enjoy a Kazinga Channel cruise, and take in the sweeping savannas of this iconic park.

3. Lake Bunyonyi (4–5 hours away)

Relax at Uganda’s most scenic lake, perfect for post-safari downtime, island hopping, and canoeing.

4. Kibale Forest National Park (3–4 hours away)

Track chimpanzees and explore lush forests teeming with primates, birds, and butterflies.

Plan Your Lake Mburo Safari with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

From wildlife adventures to cultural experiences, Lake Mburo National Park is a must-visit for any East African safari itinerary. Whether you’re beginning your journey in Entebbe or Kigali, Safari 2 Gorilla Tours will ensure a smooth, customized safari designed around your travel dreams.

Contact us here today to begin planning your Lake Mburo safari and beyond!

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Discover Bigodi | Where Culture and Nature Intertwine

Beyond the Gorilla Trek: A Journey into the Heart of Bigodi with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

When most travelers think of Uganda, they often picture the majestic mountain gorillas of Bwindi or Mgahinga. But just a few kilometers from Kibale National Park—a primate lover’s paradise—lies one of Uganda’s best-kept secrets: the Bigodi Community Walk and Swamp Walk.

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we believe that true adventure includes both wild landscapes and the vibrant communities who call them home. That’s why we highly recommend adding a Bigodi experience to your safari itinerary.

Bigodi Swamp Walk: A Haven for Birders and Nature Enthusiasts

The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, nestled along the edge of Kibale Forest, is a thriving ecosystem of papyrus swamps, tropical trees, and lush vines. Managed by the local community, this sanctuary is a model of sustainable ecotourism and biodiversity conservation.

On the swamp walk, our experienced local guides will lead you along raised boardwalks and jungle trails through the wetland. Keep your eyes open—you’re likely to spot up to 200 bird species, including the elusive great blue turaco, as well as butterflies, reptiles, and even six different primate species like the red colobus monkey and black-and-white colobus.

This is a walk that invites patience, wonder, and the joy of discovery.

Bigodi Community Walk: Step into Ugandan Village Life

After your encounter with nature, the Bigodi Community Walk offers a cultural counterpoint. This immersive walk through Bigodi village provides a rare opportunity to connect with the people whose lives are intertwined with the surrounding landscape.

You’ll visit homesteads, meet local craftsmen weaving baskets or distilling banana beer, and hear stories from village elders. The community is proud to share its traditions—from cooking demonstrations to herbal medicine practices. All of it is authentic, heartfelt, and deeply rooted in place.

Every visit directly supports community projects such as schools, clean water initiatives, and health programs—making your experience not just memorable, but meaningful.

Why Add Bigodi to Your Safari?

  • Unforgettable biodiversity in a compact, accessible wetland.
  • Cultural depth that goes far beyond the wildlife.
  • Sustainable tourism that benefits local people directly.
  • Easy integration with gorilla or chimpanzee trekking itineraries.

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we strive to craft journeys that leave you changed—for the better. The Bigodi Swamp and Community Walk is not just an add-on; it’s a powerful part of the story that is Uganda.

Ready to take the walk? Let’s plan your journey.

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Kibale National Park Uganda | Best Chimpanzee Trekking Tours

Looking for the best chimpanzee trekking experience in Uganda? Kibale National Park is the ultimate destination for primate lovers, offering the highest diversity of primates in Africa. At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we specialize in guided tours to Kibale that bring you face-to-face with wild chimpanzees and the stunning beauty of Uganda’s tropical rainforest.

Why Visit Kibale National Park?

Located in western Uganda near Fort Portal, Kibale National Park is a premier ecotourism hotspot known for its incredible wildlife, rich biodiversity, and breathtaking forest scenery. Covering over 795 square kilometers, this park is home to:

  • Over 1,500 wild chimpanzees
  • 13 species of primates (including L’Hoest’s monkey, red colobus, and black-and-white colobus)
  • 370+ species of birds
  • Unique mammals like forest elephants and bush pigs

Kibale is also part of the larger wildlife corridor connecting to Queen Elizabeth National Park, giving travelers a unique opportunity to combine chimpanzee trekking with a classic Uganda wildlife safari.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale National Park

Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale is the park’s main attraction and one of the best wildlife experiences in East Africa. With the highest chimpanzee population density in Uganda, you have up to a 95% chance of seeing chimpanzees in their natural habitat.

Your chimpanzee tracking adventure starts early in the morning with a professional Uganda Wildlife Authority guide. You’ll hike through dense jungle trails, listening for chimp calls, and tracking fresh nests or footprints. Once you locate a group, you’ll spend up to an hour observing their social behaviors—grooming, playing, and even using tools.

Safari 2 Gorilla Tours also offers the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience, allowing you to spend a full day with researchers and a semi-habituated chimp community for a more in-depth encounter.

Other Activities in Kibale

In addition to chimp tracking, Kibale National Park tours include:

  • Primate walks to see red-tailed monkeys, olive baboons, and more
  • Birdwatching for species like the African pitta and Great blue turaco
  • Nature walks in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
  • Cultural visits to local communities

We can tailor multi-day Uganda itineraries to include Bwindi Gorilla Trekking, Queen Elizabeth game drives, and visits to the Rwenzori Mountains.

Best Time to Visit Kibale National Park

The best time for chimpanzee trekking in Kibale is during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. These months offer the best trail conditions and higher chances of chimp sightings.

However, the park is open year-round, and the rainforest remains vibrant and full of life even in the wet seasons.

Book a Chimpanzee Safari with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we provide expertly guided, customizable tours to Kibale National Park and beyond. Whether you’re planning a 3-day chimpanzee trekking tour, a combined gorilla and chimp safari, or a Uganda wildlife adventure, we ensure safe, ethical, and memorable experiences.

Contact us here today to plan your Uganda safari and explore the best of Kibale National Park with passionate local guides.