Gorilla Trekking with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

The Ultimate Gorilla Trekking Experience with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

When was the last time you truly felt connected to nature—deep in the forest, heart pounding with anticipation, and eyes locked with those of a gentle giant? Welcome to the world of gorilla trekkingwith Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, where adventure meets conservation in the lush highlands of East and Central Africa.

Why Gorilla Trekking?
Gorilla trekking is more than just a safari—it’s a life-changing encounter with one of the world’s most majestic and endangered creatures, the mountain gorilla. Found only in the misty forests of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, mountain gorillas live in close-knit families, mirroring many aspects of our own social behaviors.

With only around 1,063 mountain gorillas left in the wild based on the Mountain gorilla census, each visit supports ongoing conservation efforts and helps local communities thrive.

What to Expect on a Trek

Your journey begins at dawn, hiking through dense rainforest trails guided by expert trackers and rangers. The trek can range from 1 to 10 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location. Along the way, you’ll encounter colorful birds, rare flora, and perhaps golden monkeys swinging through the canopy.

And then—suddenly—there they are.

A silverback watches calmly as his young tumble and play. Mothers cradle babies with tender care. It’s a moment of raw, unscripted beauty that words simply cannot capture.

Safari 2 Gorilla Tours ensures that your encounter is respectful, ethical, and unforgettable. You’ll spend up to one magical hour with the gorillas, capturing memories and photos while maintaining a safe distance.

Why Choose Safari 2 Gorilla Tours?
We specialize in crafting tailor-made gorilla trekking safaris that combine adventure, comfort, and local insight. Our experienced guides are passionate conservationists, offering deep knowledge of the forests and their inhabitants.

From securing permits to arranging eco-friendly lodges and cultural encounters with local communities, Safari 2 Gorilla Tours handles every detail—so you can focus on the wonder of the experience.

When to Go

Gorilla trekking is available year-round, but the dry seasons—from June to September and December to February—offer the best hiking conditions. Trekking permits are limited, so it’s wise to book well in advance.

Ready for the Journey of a Lifetime?
Let Safari 2 Gorilla Tours be your guide into the heart of Africa’s wilderness. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply in search of something extraordinary, gorilla trekking will leave you with a profound sense of awe.

Click here to book your gorilla trekking safari today—because some adventures can’t wait.

Mengo Kabaka Palace | Discover Uganda’s Rich Culture

If you’re looking to experience the true essence of Uganda—from its deep-rooted cultural heritage to its breathtaking wildlife—Safari 2 Gorilla Tours offers the perfect blend. This locally owned tour operator specializes in immersive journeys that take travelers beyond the typical safari, connecting them with both the heart of the people and the soul of the landscape.

Cultural Encounters: A Journey Through History

A highlight of many Safari 2 Gorilla Tours itineraries is a visit to Lubiri Palace (also known as the Kabaka’s Palace), a cultural gem nestled on Mengo Hill in Kampala. Built in 1885 during the reign of Kabaka Mwanga II, the palace is the official residence of the king of the Buganda Kingdom.

Guests are treated to guided tours that illuminate the rich traditions, governance, and history of one of Uganda’s oldest kingdoms. The palace grounds feature:

  • Informative Guided Tours led by passionate local experts.
  • Cultural Performances showcasing traditional music, dance, and storytelling.
  • Museums and Exhibits displaying royal artifacts, regalia, and historic documents.
  • Tranquil Gardens perfect for relaxation and photography.

A particularly powerful moment of the tour is a visit to the underground torture chambers used during Idi Amin’s regime—an emotional reminder of Uganda’s complex past.

From Culture to the Wild: Gorilla Trekking Adventures
Following the cultural immersion in Kampala, Safari 2 Gorilla Tours takes you deep into the wilderness of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Their popular 5-Day Gorilla & Wildlife Expedition combines city exploration with thrilling treks through dense forests to encounter these gentle giants up close.

Other wildlife-rich destinations like Queen Elizabeth National Park and Lake Mburo can also be included, offering game drives, boat cruises, and birdwatching opportunities.

Why Travel with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours?
Safari 2 Gorilla Tours is a trusted Ugandan tour operator, known for expertly guided, tailor-made experiences that blend adventure, culture, and conservation. Every journey is designed with care to offer authenticity and unforgettable memories.

Plan Your Ugandan Adventure

Whether you’re drawn to Uganda for its vibrant cultural history or its awe-inspiring wildlife, Safari 2 Gorilla Tours helps you experience the best of both worlds. Enhance your journey by pairing a visit to Lubiri Palace with other cultural sites like the Buganda Parliament (Bulange) and the Uganda Museum, followed by a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking expedition.

Ready to plan your trip? Click here to Reach out today for personalized assistance and start your unforgettable Ugandan adventure.

Your Ultimate Guide to Lake Mutanda Adventure and Cross-Border Exploration

Discover Lake Mutanda: Uganda’s Hidden Gem of Adventure and Tranquility

Nestled in the lush highlands of southwestern Uganda near Kisoro, Lake Mutanda offers a serene escape with crystal-clear waters, breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes, and easy access to some of Africa’s most thrilling wildlife experiences. Located between Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, Lake Mutanda is the perfect base for a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration.

Whether you’re seeking epic gorilla encounters, peaceful canoe rides, or cross-border adventures into Rwanda, Lake Mutanda is a destination you’ll never forget.

Top Things to Do Around Lake Mutanda

Nature and Wildlife Experiences

1. Gorilla Trekking

Lake Mutanda is a prime base for gorilla trekking in the southern sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Rushaga and Nkuringo) and nearby Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Lodges around the lake offer convenient access to these unforgettable experiences.

2. Birdwatching

The lake’s rich habitats attract a wide range of birdlife. Spot African spoonbills, sacred ibis, pelicans, Hadada ibis, kites, hawks, and many other species as you explore the shoreline.

3. Golden Monkey Tracking

From Lake Mutanda, it’s an easy trip to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you can track the playful and endangered golden monkeys in their natural bamboo forest habitat.

Water-Based Adventures

4. Canoeing and Kayaking

Paddle the peaceful waters of Lake Mutanda in a traditional dugout canoe or kayak. Glide past lush islands, spot birdlife up close, and soak in panoramic volcano views.

5. Motorboat and Sunset Cruises

Relax with a motorboat cruise or a magical sunset tour across the lake, offering stunning photo opportunities during the golden hour.

6. Fishing with Locals

Join local fishermen on the water for a traditional fishing experience, catching tilapia, catfish, and other native species.

Hiking and Outdoor Exploration

7. Volcano Hikes

Challenge yourself with a hike up the dramatic Virunga volcanoes—Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo. Reach panoramic summits and experience the thrill of standing at the crossroads of Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo.

8. Nature Walks and Mountain Biking

The rolling hills around Lake Mutanda are perfect for scenic hikes and mountain biking. Trails wind through local villages, forests, and farmlands, offering authentic glimpses into rural Ugandan life.

Island Exploration

9. Island Tours

Lake Mutanda is dotted with mysterious islands, each with its own story:

  • Punishment Island: Historically used for isolating wrongdoers.
  • Python Island: Home to native pythons and diverse bird species.

Boat tours offer a fascinating way to explore these hidden corners.

Relaxation and Wellness

10. Stay at Scenic Lodges

Lakeside lodges like Chameleon Hill Lodge and Mutanda Lake Resort offer spectacular views, cozy accommodations, and easy access to activities, perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure.

11. Swimming

Lake Mutanda’s clear, bilharzia-free waters are safe for swimming, free from hippos and crocodiles — an ideal place for a refreshing dip!

12. Photography and Relaxation

Capture stunning shots of misty volcanoes reflected on the lake, or simply relax by the shore, letting the peaceful ambiance wash over you.

Cross-Border Adventures: Explore Rwanda

Just a one-hour drive from Lake Mutanda, you can cross into Rwanda at the Cyanika Border for even more incredible experiences:

Nature and Culture in Rwanda

  • Volcanoes National Park: Home to gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, and epic volcano hikes like Mount Bisoke and Mount Karisimbi.
  • Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo: Twin volcanic lakes ideal for canoe trips and breathtaking scenery.
  • Gorilla Guardian Village (Iby’iwacu Cultural Village): Experience traditional Rwandan culture through music, dance, and storytelling from former poachers.
  • Ellen DeGeneres Gorilla Campus: A world-class center for gorilla research and conservation.

Kigali City Highlights

  • Kigali Genocide Memorial: A deeply moving tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide.
  • Kigali City Tour: Discover one of Africa’s cleanest and most vibrant cities, filled with art galleries, craft markets, coffee shops, and historical sites.

Important Travel Information

Rwanda Visa Information

Visas are easy to obtain at the Cyanika border or online. Here’s what you need to know:

Visa Type Validity Fee (USD)
Transit Visa 3 Days $30
Single Entry Visa 30 Days $50
Multiple Entry Visa 90 Days $70
East African Tourist Visa

(Highly Recommended)

90 Days (Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya) $100

Note: Commonwealth citizens are visa-exempt for Rwanda.

How to Get to Lake Mutanda

By Air

  • Scheduled Flights: Daily flights from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro Airstrip (Aerolink or Bar Aviation Uganda).
  • Flight Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes.
  • Transfer: 45-minute scenic drive from Kisoro to Lake Mutanda.

By Road

  • From Entebbe/Kampala: 9–10 hour drive (~480 km) via Kampala–Mbarara–Kabale–Kisoro. A 4WD is recommended, especially during rainy seasons.
  • From Bwindi (Rushaga/Nkuringo): 1.5–2 hours’ drive.
  • From Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: About 1 hour.

Public Transport

  • Public buses run between Kampala and Kisoro. From Kisoro town, hire a local taxi or boda-boda to Lake Mutanda.

Crossing into Rwanda from Lake Mutanda

  • Cyanika Border: 30 km (~1-hour drive) from the lake.
  • Key Destinations from Cyanika:

    • Musanze (Ruhengeri): 30 minutes
    • Volcanoes National Park: 40–45 minutes
    • Kigali City: 2.5–3 hours

Transport Options:
Private car hires are recommended for comfort, but local minibuses are available from the border to Musanze and Kigali.

Departing from Rwanda

  • Flights: Daily international flights from Kigali International Airport to major cities like Entebbe, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Dubai, Brussels, and Johannesburg.
  • Road Travel: Easy connections back to Uganda (via Cyanika or Gatuna Border), or onward to Tanzania and Kenya via the Rusumo Border.

Ready to Explore?

Lake Mutanda is more than a destination — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From misty mornings on the water, thrilling wildlife encounters, vibrant cultural experiences, and peaceful island escapes, this hidden gem promises memories you will treasure forever.

Why Travel with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours Ltd?

  • Expert guides with deep local knowledge
  • Comfortable 4×4 vehicles and flight arrangements
  • Handpicked lodges and authentic cultural experiences
  • Full support from inquiry to your safe return home

Your adventure starts here.
Book your Lake Mutanda journey today with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours Ltd — where every journey is a story worth telling.

Contact us here today to start planning your unforgettable trip!

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, Safari 2 Gorilla Tours Ltd cannot guarantee that all details (including activities, visa regulations, fees, and transport schedules) will remain current at the time of your travel. We recommend confirming any critical arrangements directly prior to your trip. All activities are subject to weather conditions, availability, and national park regulations. Participation in activities such as gorilla trekking, volcano hiking, and water-based excursions may require permits or involve physical challenges. Travelers are responsible for securing appropriate travel insurance, health precautions, and visas where applicable.

Beyond Lake Bunyonyi, things to do and see

Lake Bunyonyi and the surrounding region in southwestern Uganda offer an incredible combination of adventure, nature, and cultural immersion. Here’s a concise guide to the top activities and attractions in the area:

Nature & Scenic Activities

  • Canoeing & Boat Rides: Explore the serene lake and its 29 islands by canoe or motorboat.
  • Swimming: The lake is bilharzia-free, making it ideal for a refreshing swim.
  • Birdwatching: With over 200 species, including the rare shoebill stork, it’s a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
  • Nature Walks & Hiking: Discover the lush landscapes and local flora with guided hikes.

Cultural & Historical Attractions

  • Akampene Island (Punishment Island): Learn about the historical practice of punishing unmarried pregnant women.
  • Bwama & Njuyeera Islands: Visit remnants of a former leprosy treatment center.
  • Community Tours: Engage with the Bakiga and Batwa communities to experience their traditional lifestyles.

Adventure & Unique Experiences

  • Zip Lining: Enjoy an adrenaline rush with stunning views of the landscape.
  • Island Hopping: Explore the unique islands in the lake, each with its own charm.

Accommodation & Relaxation

  • Lodges & Campsites: Choose from lakeside lodges or campsites for a peaceful retreat.
  • Wellness Retreats: Relax at lodges offering spa services after a day of adventure.

Nearby Attractions

  1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Experience unforgettable gorilla trekking.
  2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Visit the Nyakagezi gorilla family and explore dormant volcanoes.
  3. Batwa Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the traditions of the Batwa people.
  4. Kabale Central Market: Explore a lively market full of local produce and crafts.
  5. Lake Mutanda: Enjoy a peaceful and scenic escape.
  6. Kabale Golf Course: Play a round of golf amidst rolling hills.
  7. Kisiizi Falls: A serene, picturesque waterfall perfect for nature lovers.

Cross-Border Destinations

  • Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda: Visit for gorilla trekking and volcanic hikes.
  • Gorilla Museum Tour at Ellen DeGeneres Campus: Learn about gorilla conservation.
  • Gorilla Guardian Village: Experience the culture of local communities involved in conservation.
  • Kigali City & Genocide Memorial: A meaningful visit to Rwanda’s capital and its poignant history.

Lake Bunyonyi offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxation, making it an unforgettable destination for any traveler.

Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey? Let us take you on an extraordinary adventure through Lake Bunyonyi and beyond. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, we’ve got the perfect tour for you. Our expert guides will ensure you experience the best of this stunning region, with personalized itineraries designed to make your trip truly special.

Book your tour with us today! Reach out now to reserve your spot and start your adventure. Simply visit our website or contact us now directly to secure your place on an unforgettable journey.

The Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is a very popular wildlife activity that can only be done in Africa. Mountain gorilla trekking is even more popular and is only possible in Uganda and Rwanda. As more and more people get to know about the activity, the number of travellers heading to the two countries increases each year – so that much that gorilla permits may be extremely difficult to get during certain months of the year. Those who are planning for gorilla often wonder if there is an age limit for gorilla trekking especially when intending to travel with minors.

Minimum Age for gorilla trekking in Uganda, Rwanda
The age limit for gorilla trekking is 15 years in all three countries but there can be exceptions in Uganda as you will find out shortly. The age limit for gorilla trekking is set by the different government authorities responsible for managing the national parks. In Uganda, it is the Uganda Wildlife Authority while in Uganda it is the Rwanda the Rwanda Development Board.

Why age limit of gorilla trekking is set at 15
The age limit for gorilla trekking is set at 15 because younger travelers are considered to be children who may not be able to deal with any negative reactions from gorillas. Gorillas are very calm and gentile creatures but they can become aggressive when they feel threatened or misinterpret the actions of trackers. Children may not stay calm or lay low when a mighty silverback approaches them or appears aggressive. Screaming or running away could force the gorilla to run after the youngster. The only way to contain an aggressive or charging gorilla is to act submissive and lay low. Mature travelers are better at controlling their emotions in the event that a gorilla charges.

 

Best 7 Activities Do on a Uganda Safari

Uganda is richly blessed with stunning tourist attractions and amazing features that tourists from around the world love to explore all year round. Here are the best 7 things to do on a Uganda Safari that you should consider having on your itinerary when you visit Uganda.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking is the most popular activity done in Uganda and one of the best 7 things to do on a Uganda Safari. It is also referred to as Gorilla tracking and it is where the rangers try to find the given habituated gorilla group for the clients on their trekking date. So, the clients will be divided into a group of 8 people at 8:00am to be assigned to a specific gorilla group and escorted by ranger guides into the forest to search for the rare Mountain Gorillas. It might take you 2-6 hours while in the forest depending on the time and the place where you will find the Mountain Gorillas. Upon finding them, clients will spend only one (1) hour of interacting with these lovely primates.

Uganda alone harbors half of the world’s total population currently with 459 individuals from an estimated 400 individuals in 2011 of the Mountain Gorillas as it was revealed by Uganda’s Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities together with the Greater Virunga Transboundary Collaboration in 16th December 2019.

So, the world’s total population of the Mountain Gorillas rose to over 1,063 individuals including the parks from the Virunga Massif with the total population of 603 individuals of Mountain Gorillas i.e. Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Virunga National Park in DRC Congo and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in the south western of Uganda and it is the most popular National park in the world for Gorilla trekking besides Volcanoes National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Virunga National Park. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park was started and designated as Crown Forest reserve in 1932 and it was divided into two blocks or parts where the northern part was named as Kayonza crown Forest Reserves and the Southern block designated as the “Kasatora Crown Forest Reserve.

In 1964, the Crown Forest reserve was turned into animal sanctuary to protect the rare Mountain Gorillas until 1991 when it was upgraded into Bwindi Impenetrable National Park together with Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Rwenzori Mountain National Park. It covered 330.8square Kilometers and it was being managed by Uganda Wildlife Authority to date.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is composed of different sectors and they include Buhoma sector, Ruhija Sector, Rushaga sector and Nkuringo sector. They all have a variety of gorilla groups for trekking but the gorilla permit availability will determine the sector you will be allocated for gorilla trekking on the time of confirmation. There is also another gorilla family at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park called Nyakagezi.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is one of the national parks providing the Gorilla trekking experience in Uganda and it forms the Virunga massif region. The park encompasses three inactive volcanic mountains and they include Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga and Mount Sabinyo.

Game Drives in Uganda’s Savannah National Parks

This is unusual and exciting experience which involves viewing wildlife in a comfortable Safari vehicle (4×4 Land cruisers). During this daring experience, you will be accompanied by the tour guide and armed ranger guide provided by Uganda Wildlife Authority. It takes 3-4 hours while in wild and it is also an opportunity to view various birds on the game drive. In Uganda game drives can be done in 5 different national parks with varied safari experience and they include Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, and Semuliki National Park.

Murchison Falls National Park is located near the shores of Lake Albert in the north western part of Uganda. It contains 451 species of birds and 76 species of mammals which can be spotted in your Uganda Safari for example Lions, Leopard, Elephants, Buffaloes, Hyenas, Water Buck, Bush Buck, Giraffes, Oribis, Jackson Hartebeests, Hippopotamus, Chimpanzees, crocodiles among many other animals.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in the Western Region of Uganda, covering the districts of Kasese, Kamwenge, Rubirizi, and Rukungiri. It contains 600 bird species and 95 mammal species among which include Lions, Elephants, Buffaloes, Leopards, Chimpanzees, Hippopotamus, Crocodiles, Water bucks, Bush Bucks, Mongoose and other many animal species.

Kidepo Valley National Park is located in the Karamoja region in northeast Uganda and it is dominated by the rugged savannah. It is the most beautiful savannah national park in Uganda with the variety of animals. It houses 475 species of birds and 86 species of mammals which include the Lions, Leopards, Elephants, black backed jackal, African hunting dog, bat eared fox, Cheetah, caracal, bush pig and 17 species of antelopes among others.

Lake Mburo National Park situated in Kiruhura District in western Uganda and it is a continuation of Tanzanian plains. It habits over 350 species of birds and over 68 species of mammals like zebra, impala, topi, eland, bush buck, buffalo, warthog, leopard, hyena and jackal among other species.

Semuliki National Park was made as national park in 1993 and it is located in Bwamba County, a remote part of the Bundibugyo District, in the Western Region of Uganda covering an area of 219 km². It contains 441 recorded bird species and 60 mammal species, including African buffalo, leopard, hippopotamus, Mona monkey, water chevrotain, bush babies, African civet, African elephant, Chimpanzees and the Pygmy scaly-tailed flying squirrel (Idiurus zenkeri)

Boat Cruise in Uganda

Uganda is blessed with a variety of water bodies and it has accelerated boat cruise tours in Uganda. It is one of the enjoyable, relaxing and common activities done in various places in the country. The clients will be provided with the guide, and life jacket vests but drinks can be bought by the client while in the boat cruise.

Boat cruise to the source of the Nile offers a relaxing, breathtaking sights and enjoying cool breeze of Lake Victoria. It is done from Jinja town located in the eastern region of Uganda, on the shores of Lake Victoria. It takes 2 hours or more and while on the boat, some birds will be spotted, Speke monument and Nile Bridge.

Boat cruise to the bottom of the falls is done in Murchison Falls National Park and it takes three (3) hours. It is done on the calm Victoria Nile to the base of the falls stopping just ten meters to the “Devil’s Cauldron”. En-route, marvel at the toothsome hippos, crocodiles and over this 17 km stretch you may see elephant, buffaloes, waterbuck and Uganda kobs. This is also a zone of many bird species like Goliath heron, Egyptian goose, pelican bee-eater, kingfisher, hornbill, cormorant and the rare shoebill stork. See where the world’s longest river explodes violently through a narrow cleft in the Rift Valley escarpment to plunge into a frothing pool 43m below.

Boat cruise to the Nile Delta is also done on the Victoria Nile at Murchison falls National Park, you will be taken to the starting point for your boat cruise to the delta where Victoria Nile Connects with Albert Nile and flows the whole way to the Mediterranean Sea, you will be able to see school of Hippos, Crocodiles and birds like the rare Shoebill stork and various animals which come to drink water on the Nile River.

Boat Cruise at Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The channel connects the water flow from Lake George to Lake Edward. A two (2) hour boat trip along the famous Kazinga channel is worthwhile an opportunity to see Hippo, Buffalo, Kobs, Elephants, warthogs etc. This trip also enables visitor to see spectacular birds.

Boat Cruise at Lake Bunyonyi. It is the second deepest Lake in Africa after Lake Tanganyika in Tanzania. The boat cruise on Lake Bunyonyi makes you feel the wonders of nature as you will see big terraced hills, big valleys, and the 29 islands which form up Lake Bunyonyi. It is a good place for relaxing after along gorilla trek at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Boat cruise at Lake Mburo. It is located in Kiruhura District and having the boat cruise at this mighty lake is so exclusive and peaceful amidst hippopotamus. So, you will also be in position to see large crocodiles lurking on the shores and above all many birds like African Wattled Lapwing, Rufous-bellied Heron, Bateleur, Brown-chested Lapwing, Pied Kingfisher, African Fish Eagle, African Jacana, Hadada Ibis, Egyptian Goose, and Water Thicknee among other birds

Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda

Chimpanzee trekking is one of the activities which make Uganda Safaris unique. Uganda is a home to over 5,000 chimpanzees. While in Uganda, enjoy seeing the closest creatures to human beings and they have made people discover the origin of human behaviors since we share 99% of our DNA.

Chimpanzee trekking starts at 8:00am in morning and 2:00pm in the afternoon with the briefing from Uganda Wildlife Authority ranger guides. It takes 2-3 hours depending on the time you find the chimpanzees but visitors are allowed to spend 1 hour upon find them for sustainability. During this encounter, you will see how they play, eat, breastfeed, build their nests and you will realize that this are close creatures to humans. Uganda is blessed with many spots to track the chimpanzees for example Kibale Forest National Park which is the main chimpanzee tracking destination, Kyambura gorges at Queen Elizabeth National Park, Budongo Central Forest Reserve / Kaniyo Pabidi Forest and Kalinzu Forest Reserve.

Kibale National Park is located in western Uganda near Fort Portal town which is the entry to the most tourists’ destination in Uganda. It contains 13 species of primates and mainly known for chimpanzee tracking in the whole world. It hosts over 1500 chimpanzees and in general it is a home to 70 species of mammals and 375 species of birds.

Kyambura gorge is the second main spot for Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda and it is situated in Queen Elizabeth National Park, the western region of Uganda. It is a narrow valley with steep and rocky walls located between hills or mountains. It has got a magnificent view of the river rain forest and it is located near the equator crossing line in Kasese which crosses the Kyambura. The gorge has attracted large number of birds and other primate species like red tailed monkey, white and black colobus monkey, Olive baboons, red Columbus monkey among other species.

Budongo Central Forest Reserve is located in northwest of Kampala and it is another main spot for Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda. The reserve is the continuation and part of the famous Murchison Falls National Park. The reserve is also known as Kaniyo Pabidi with its royal mile commonly for bird watching.

Kalinzu Forest Reserve is located in Bushenyi District in western Uganda between Mbarara town and Kasese. It is also near the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. It is the cheapest place for chimpanzee trekking in Uganda.

White Water Rafting at the Source of the Nile

A safari to Uganda wouldn’t be complete without White Water Rafting on River Nile. The source of the Nile is a dramatic and the top destination for white water rafting in world. It takes a full day between 4 -5 hours covering 25km distance and it depends on the rafting grade one chooses. Grade 3, Grade 5 and Grade 5 extreme white water rafting are the most preferred.

Grade 3 family rafting takes one day and it is good for families and school children from 8 years and above with at least 30Kg. You will be provided free photos and videos, transport to and from Kampala, free breakfast, picnic lunch, Experienced and friendly staff, drinking water all day, scenic views, tubing and floats as you relax on the Nile.

Grade 5 and extreme rafting is so adventurous and it takes 4-5 hours. You can choose to paddle as a team or choose softer option as you hit more rapids downstream. Grade 5 takes children with a minimum of 16 years on a 25km distance where you will also be provided with free breakfast and lunch, free photos, transport to and from Kampala, experience guides and staff and above all no necessary experience is required to take on this activity.

Spot Fishing

Spot Fishing is one of the major tourism activities done in Uganda. It is a very interesting game which involves catching and releasing especially Nile perch Fish. However, other fish like Tilapia, Tiger fish, Ngara (Genus alestes), ferocious fighter and Golden barbell can be caught. Uganda is blessed with large water bodies where every direction of the country has water, making it the ideal destination for sport fishing. Sport fishing can be done on Lake Victoria, the bottom of Murchison Falls on the Victoria Nile in Murchison Falls National Park and Lake Mburo in Lake Mburo National Park.

The clients will be provided with the boat and fishing equipment to take on their sport fishing activity but the clients can still come with their fishing gears if they want. One time at the bottom of Murchison falls, 113kg Nile perch was caught on record and you can be the next challenger.

Mountain Climbing in Uganda

Uganda is covered with hills, vallies and volcanic mountains and over the years, Mountain Hiking in Uganda has been developing day and night. There are well developed trails on the Mountains, advanced accommodations, and well trained guides, porters, and chefs which combine into a lifetime experience. However, other hiking equipment can be hired on your hiking safari.

The mountain climbing is commonly done on Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Mountain Elgon National Park and volcanoe climbing at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Rwenzori Mountain also known as Mountains of the moon with snowcapped peaks rising from the equatorial bulge of Central Africa and sought to be source of the world’s longest River Nile. This was followed by series of exploration and by 1889; Henry Morton Stanley confirmed this ancient proclamation. This legendary description of Mountain Rwenzori makes it a historical landmark that should never be missed while on a Uganda safari. The area was established as a national park in 1991 extending to 996 km2 of land coverage and was designated as a world heritage site in 1994 by UNESCO. Mountain Rwenzori has the third highest peak in Africa after Kilimanjaro and Mount Kenya stretching to 5,109m above sea level named Margarita peak. Interestingly, the Rwenzori mountain peaks are covered by snow regardless of its close range to the equator.

Mount Elgon National Park is located in the east of Uganda 255km from Kampala covers a geographical surface of 1,121km2. It contains the 4th tallest mountain in the East African region which was once the tallest in Africa higher than Kilimanjaro but as a result of denudation, it was reduced to 4,321m above sea level. Mount Elgon is the oldest and largest stand alone volcano in East Africa with the last eruption estimated to have occurred about 24 million years ago. Mount Elgon has got the largest intact mountain caldera in the whole world extending to 42 km2 and the largest volcanic base in the world stretching to 4,000 km2. The protected area has gone through series of recognition with the first occurring in 1929 when it was established as a forest reserve followed by its establishment in 1940 as a crown forest and as a Central Forest Reserve in1951. In 1993, the area eventually gained a national park status.