CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Discover Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve Ugandas Hidden Safari Gem

Discover Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve Ugandas Hidden Safari Gem with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours
Looking for a true wilderness escape far from the usual tourist trails in Uganda Look no further than Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve Nestled in the remote northeastern region of the country Pian Upe is one of Ugandas most untouched and breathtaking safari destinations With Safari 2 Gorilla Tours you can explore this hidden gem through tailored adventures filled with wildlife nature and culture

Experience Raw African Wilderness

Pian Upe is a must visit for nature lovers and safari enthusiasts It is among the few places in Uganda where you can spot cheetahs and the rare roan antelope The reserve is also home to zebras elands hyenas leopards jackals and an incredible variety of bird species making it a paradise for birdwatchers

What to Expect on Your Safari

Safari 2 Gorilla Tours offers a range of exciting and immersive experiences at Pian Upe including

  • Guided game drives in 4WD safari vehicles
  • Scenic nature walks led by experienced rangers
  • Birdwatching tours with expert guides
  • Cultural interactions with the Karamojong people who preserve their unique pastoralist heritage

How to Reach Pian Upe

The journey to Pian Upe is an adventure in itself

  • By road Travel from Kampala through Jinja Mbale and Nakapiripirit approximately 8 to 9 hours The main entry gate is located near Chepsukunya Trading Centre around 90 kilometers from Mbale
  • By air Charter flights can be arranged from Entebbe International Airport to Amudat airstrip the nearest access point by air

We recommend a 4×4 vehicle particularly in the rainy season when roads may be muddy and rough Safari 2 Gorilla Tours handles all transportation logistics so you can focus on enjoying the journey

Where to Stay in and Around Pian Upe

Tourism infrastructure in Pian Upe is still developing but there are several adventurous and comfortable lodging options available

  • Karamoja Overland Camp offering safari tents close to the reserve headquarters
  • UWA Bandas budget friendly accommodation right within the reserve
  • Camping facilities for travelers seeking a fully immersive experience
  • Hotels and guesthouses in nearby towns like Mbale or near Sipi Falls offer more conventional comfort

We help you find the best accommodation to match your style and budget

Enhance Your Trip with Gorilla Trekking

Want to make your safari even more unforgettable Combine your Pian Upe journey with a gorilla trekking adventure in southwestern Uganda Safari 2 Gorilla Tours offers custom itineraries that include

  • Bwindi Impenetrable National Park home to nearly half the worlds mountain gorilla population
  • Mgahinga Gorilla National Park a quieter alternative with stunning volcanic scenery

Imagine 11 days of travel through Pian Upe Sipi Falls Kidepo Valley and the misty gorilla forests of Bwindi Our team manages every detail so you can relax and enjoy each moment

Best Time to Visit Pian Upe
The ideal time to explore Pian Upe is during the dry seasons from December to February and from June to September These months offer better road conditions and excellent wildlife visibility The wet seasons bring lush landscapes but may make travel more difficult

Why Choose Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours we specialize in creating unforgettable off the beaten path safaris Pian Upe is the perfect destination for adventurous travelers who crave raw beauty rare wildlife and meaningful cultural experiences

Whether youre planning a weekend safari or a multi destination adventure that includes gorilla trekking we are here to make your trip seamless and extraordinary

Start Your Journey Today

Ready to discover one of Ugandas best kept secrets Contact Safari 2 Gorilla Tours today and let us help you craft your ultimate African safari adventure

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Sipi Falls Uganda Adventure with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

If you’re dreaming of an off-the-beaten-path escape in Uganda, Sipi Falls offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness. Tucked away in the foothills of Mount Elgon in Eastern Uganda, this three-tiered waterfall is one of the country’s most scenic and peaceful destinations.

Why Visit Sipi Falls?
Sipi Falls is known for its cool climate, spectacular hiking trails, and breathtaking views of the surrounding highlands and valleys. The tallest waterfall drops over 100 meters into a rocky basin, creating a refreshing mist and stunning backdrop for photos and outdoor adventures.

Top Experiences at Sipi Falls

  • Scenic Hikes through banana plantations, coffee farms, and village paths
  • Abseiling beside the main waterfall for a thrilling descent with expert supervision
  • Authentic Coffee Tours showcasing how Arabica coffee is grown, processed, and brewed
  • Cultural Encounters with the Sabiny people, offering insight into local traditions and lifestyle

Getting There and Away

Sipi Falls is located about 5 to 6 hours’ drive from Kampala via Jinja and Mbale. The road is mostly paved, and the journey offers scenic views of the Nile, tea plantations, and rolling hills. Travelers can use a private 4×4 vehicle provided by Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, ensuring comfort, safety, and local insight throughout the journey.

For those traveling from Kenya, Sipi Falls is accessible via the Suam border post, making it a convenient and rewarding stopover on any East African safari.

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.

Book Your Sipi Falls Adventure Today

Let nature refresh your soul and culture enrich your journey. Whether you’re after peaceful moments or outdoor thrills, Safari 2 Gorilla Tours is ready to guide you every step of the way.

Click here to start planning your trip.

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

Explore Mgahinga Gorilla National Park with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

Your Gateway to Mountain Gorillas and More
Nestled in Uganda’s far southwestern corner, where the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo meet, lies a hidden treasure: Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Though it’s the smallest of Uganda’s national parks, Mgahinga offers big experiences—especially for those seeking the ultimate gorilla trekking adventure.

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we don’t just take you on a safari—we connect you to Africa’s wild beauty, culture, and adventure. And Mgahinga is one of our most exclusive offerings.

Why Choose Mgahinga for Gorilla Trekking?

Mgahinga is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which spans three countries and is home to more than half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. While Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest may be more famous, Mgahinga provides a quieter, more exclusive trekking experience.

You’ll track the Nyakagezi gorilla family, a group known for its stable, playful nature and charismatic silverbacks. With fewer visitors, the trek feels more personal, and the photographic opportunities are unmatched.

Key Highlights of Gorilla Trekking with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours:

  • Personalized attention with small-group treks
  • Expert, English-speaking guides with deep knowledge of the terrain and primates
  • Ethical tourism that supports local conservation and communities
  • Guaranteed gorilla permits, accommodations, and transfers

Beyond Gorillas: Mgahinga’s Rich Tapestry of Adventure

While gorillas are the main attraction, Mgahinga is a multi-dimensional destination. With Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, you can:

1. Track Golden Monkeys

These rare and vibrant primates are found only in the Virunga Mountains. Tracking them is a thrilling addition to your itinerary.

2. Climb a Volcano

Choose from three dormant volcanoes:

  • Mt. Sabinyo – Stand in Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC at the same time.
  • Mt. Gahinga – A gentle climb through lush bamboo forests.
  • Mt. Muhabura – The highest and most challenging, with panoramic views.

3. Discover Batwa Culture

Join our Batwa Trail Experience, a guided walk with the indigenous Batwa pygmies—Mgahinga’s original forest dwellers. Learn traditional skills and hear powerful stories of resilience and cultural heritage.

Extend Your Safari: Nearby Adventures You Can’t Miss

1. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda)

Just a few hours’ drive away, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers additional gorilla tracking opportunities in multiple sectors, as well as birdwatching and nature walks.

2. Lake Bunyonyi

Known as one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes, Lake Bunyonyi is perfect for a relaxing extension. Enjoy canoeing, island hopping, or a serene lodge stay surrounded by terraced hills.

3. Queen Elizabeth National Park

Track tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, cruise along the Kazinga Channel, and witness Uganda’s classic savannah wildlife.

4. Cross into Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park

Just 1–2 hours across the Cyanika border, explore Rwanda’s own gorilla haven. We offer dual-country safari packages, combining Mgahinga with Volcanoes National Park, cultural tours in Musanze, or a visit to Kigali’s Genocide Memorial for deeper insight into Rwanda’s past and future.

Why Travel with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours?

  • Tailored Safaris: From luxury lodges to mid-range and budget options, we create experiences that match your style and needs.
  • Expertise & Reliability: We handle every detail—from permits to border crossings—so you can focus on the adventure.
  • Sustainable Travel: We prioritize local guides, eco-lodges, and conservation-based tourism.

Plan Your Mgahinga Safari Today
Whether it’s your dream to see mountain gorillas, explore ancient volcanoes, or blend adventure with cultural immersion, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is your gateway—and Safari 2 Gorilla Tours is your trusted guide.

Contact us here now to start customizing your journey. Let’s turn your safari dreams into unforgettable memories—one trek, trail, and encounter at a time.

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Discover the Mystical Beauty of Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Uganda

Safari 2 Gorilla Tours invites you to step into a world unlike any other – a land where towering peaks pierce the clouds, lush valleys cradle sparkling streams, and rare wildlife thrives among some of Africa’s most spectacular landscapes. Welcome to Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Uganda’s hidden alpine treasure.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, Rwenzori Mountains National Park protects the legendary “Mountains of the Moon.” Stretching along Uganda’s western border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, the park spans 996 square kilometers of some of Africa’s most breathtaking mountain scenery. At its heart is the Rwenzori range, home to Margherita Peak (5,109 meters) – Africa’s third-highest summit.

A Journey Through Diverse Eco-Systems
Trekking through Rwenzori Mountains National Park is like walking through several different worlds. As you ascend, you move through distinct vegetation zones:

  • Tropical rainforest bustling with birdlife and primates.
  • Bamboo and heather zones, featuring rare plants like giant lobelias.
  • Afro-alpine moorlands cloaked in mist and dramatic glaciers at higher elevations.

The Rwenzoris are known for their remarkable biodiversity, with numerous endemic plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth.

Unique Wildlife Encounters
While not a classic safari destination for big game, Rwenzori Mountains National Park offers unforgettable wildlife experiences:

  • Rwenzori turaco, handsome francolin, and other rare birds.
  • Forest elephants moving silently through the valleys.
  • Chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus, and L’Hoest’s monkeys.
  • An array of rare amphibians and reptiles adapted to the mountain environment.

Over 217 bird species have been recorded, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Trekking Adventures: A Challenge Worth Every Step
For those with a spirit of adventure, Safari 2 Gorilla Tours offers several trekking options.

The classic Rwenzori Central Circuit Trail (7–9 days) guides you through lush valleys, beautiful lakes, and up to the stunning glacial peaks. Alternatively, the Kilembe Trail provides a slightly less crowded but equally rewarding route.

Expect muddy paths, rope climbs, and changing weather — but also some of the most stunning views in Africa. Reaching Margherita Peak is a badge of honor few travelers can claim.

How to Get There and Away

Safari 2 Gorilla Tours makes accessing Rwenzori Mountains National Park easy and stress-free:

  • From Kampala/Entebbe (Uganda):
    By road, it’s a scenic 5–6 hour drive to Kasese Town.
    By air, you can take a domestic flight from Entebbe International Airport to Kasese Airstrip — a quick 1-hour flight.
  • From Kigali (Rwanda):
    For travelers combining Uganda and Rwanda, it’s possible to reach the Rwenzoris with a 6–7 hour drive from Kigali, crossing into Uganda at Gatuna or Katuna border post, and continuing to Kasese.

Safari 2 Gorilla Tours arranges all transport logistics, whether you arrive by road or air, ensuring a smooth start and end to your mountain adventure.

Extend Your Adventure: Explore Uganda’s Top Parks

After trekking the mystical Rwenzoris, extend your journey with a safari, primate trek, or cultural experience. Here are top destinations near Rwenzori Mountains National Park:

1)  Queen Elizabeth National Park

(Approx. 2 hours from Kasese)

  • Game drives in the Kaseny plains.
  • Boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel teeming with wildlife.
  • Visit the Ishasha sector to spot tree-climbing lions.

2) Kibale National Park

(Approx. 2.5 hours from Kasese)

  • World-famous chimpanzee tracking.
  • Nature walks and birdwatching at Bigodi Wetlands.

3) Lake Mburo National Park

(Approx. 4 hours from Kasese)

  • Uganda’s best location for horseback safaris.
  • Close encounters with zebras, giraffes, and impalas.

4) Bugoma Forest Reserve

(Approx. 3–4 hours northeast)

  • Trekking to see endangered chimpanzees.
  • Birdwatching in a rich tropical forest ecosystem

5) Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

(Approx. 4–5 hours south of Kasese)

  • Gorilla trekking with a 98% sighting success rate.
  • One of the world’s most biologically diverse rainforests.

6) Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
(Approx. 5–6 hours south)

  • Home to the Nyakagezi gorilla group.
  • Fantastic hiking including Mount Gahinga, Sabinyo, and Muhabura volcano climbs.
  • Golden monkey tracking opportunities.

7) Kalinzu Forest Reserve

(Approx. 2 hours from Kasese)

  • Chimpanzee trekking in a less-crowded setting.
  • Scenic forest walks and birdwatching.

8) Semliki National Park

(Approx. 2–3 hours from Kasese)

  • Explore the Sempaya Hot Springs.
  • Spot rare primates like De Brazza’s monkeys.
  • Rich lowland tropical forests offering a true Congo Basin experience in Uganda.

9) Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve

(Approx. 2.5 hours from Kasese)

  • Boat trips on Lake Albert.
  • Track savannah elephants, buffalo, and waterbucks.
  • Stunning views of the Blue Mountains of Congo.

10) Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve

(Approx. 4 hours from Kasese)

  • Scenic safaris on the Albertine Rift escarpment.
  • Birdwatching, nature walks, and fossil hunting.

11) Murchison Falls National Park

(Approx. 5–6 hours northeast from Kasese)

  • Uganda’s largest and oldest national park.
  • Cruise the Nile River to the dramatic Murchison Falls.
  • Classic safari drives spotting lions, leopards, giraffes, and elephants.

Why Choose Safari 2 Gorilla Tours?
At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we specialize in crafting tailor-made Uganda adventures — from conquering snowy peaks to tracking mountain gorillas and exploring untamed savannahs. With expert guides, personalized service, and a strong focus on responsible tourism, your journey is in safe hands.

Ready to explore Uganda’s hidden wonders? Contact Safari 2 Gorilla Tours here today and let’s create your once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Attractions and activities in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Tucked away in Uganda’s southwestern corner, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a small yet spectacular gem. Covering just 33.7 square kilometers, this park is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, which spans Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite its size, Mgahinga is packed with dramatic scenery, rich biodiversity, and incredible activities that offer unforgettable experiences. Here’s what you can do and see in this unique park:

1. Gorilla Trekking
Mgahinga is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family, one of the most relaxed and accessible gorilla groups in Uganda. Gorilla trekking here is a bucket-list experience, offering the chance to hike through dense bamboo forests and volcanic slopes to observe these magnificent creatures up close. Treks are guided and limited to small groups to ensure a respectful and low-impact encounter with the gorillas.

2. Golden Monkey Tracking
Mgahinga is the only park in Uganda where you can track the endangered golden monkey, a rare and vibrant primate found in the bamboo forests. Watching these playful creatures leap through the trees is a highlight for many visitors. The golden monkey experience includes both tracking and an extended stay with a troop, allowing for deeper observation and photography.

3. Volcano Hiking
Mgahinga is dominated by three stunning volcanoes that you can hike:
* Mount Sabinyo (3,669m) – Known as the “Old Man’s Teeth” for its jagged summit, Sabinyo offers a thrilling hike across three countries (Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC) in a single day.
* Mount Gahinga (3,474m) – An easier climb, Gahinga features a lush bamboo forest and a beautiful swamp-filled crater at the summit.
* Mount Muhabura (4,127m) – The tallest of the three, Muhabura’s hike is steep and challenging but rewards climbers with panoramic views of the Virunga ranges and beyond.
These hikes are moderately to highly strenuous, but the scenery and sense of accomplishment are absolutely worth it.

4. Batwa Cultural Experience
Before the forests were protected, the Batwa people (also known as “the Keepers of the Forest”) lived as hunter-gatherers within them. Today, the Batwa Cultural Trail offers a fascinating glimpse into their traditional life. Led by Batwa guides, visitors learn about ancient hunting techniques, medicinal plants, cultural rituals, and how the Batwa coexisted with the wildlife for centuries. It’s a moving and educational experience that supports local communities.

5. Birdwatching
For bird enthusiasts, Mgahinga is a paradise. The park hosts over 180 bird species, including several Albertine Rift endemics like the Rwenzori Turaco, Archer’s Robin-Chat, and the Dusky Crimsonwing. Birdwatching can be enjoyed throughout the park, especially in the bamboo zones and montane forests.

6. Nature and Scenic Walk
Several guided nature walks are available for visitors who want a more relaxed way to explore Mgahinga’s beautiful landscapes. Trails weave through bamboo forests, montane woodlands, and lush vegetation, offering chances to spot wildlife, birds, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes. Popular walks include the Sabyinyo Gorge Trail, known for its rich biodiversity and scenic waterfalls.

7. Photography and Panoramic Views
Whether you’re a professional photographer or a casual traveler, Mgahinga offers incredible photography opportunities. The dramatic backdrop of volcanoes, misty forests, and wildlife encounters create postcard-perfect moments. Sunrise and sunset over the Virunga ranges are especially spectacular.

Quick Visitor Tips
* Best Time to Visit: The dry seasons (June to September and December to February) offer the best conditions for trekking and hiking.
* Permits: Gorilla and golden monkey tracking permits must be obtained before arrival.
* Gear: Good hiking boots, rain gear, gloves, and a sturdy walking stick are recommended for treks.
* Accessibility: Mgahinga is easily reachable from Kisoro town (about 14 km away) and is well connected to other attractions like Lake Mutanda and Bwindi.

Conclusion
Though small in size, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park delivers big on adventure, wildlife, culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re scaling volcanoes, tracking rare primates, or connecting with the Batwa heritage, a visit to Mgahinga promises memories that last a lifetime. It’s the perfect destination for travelers seeking an intimate and profound connection with Uganda’s wild side.

Plan Your Mgahinga Safari Today

Whether it’s your dream to see mountain gorillas, explore ancient volcanoes, or blend adventure with cultural immersion, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is your gateway—and Safari 2 Gorilla Tours is your trusted guide.

Contact us now to start customizing your journey. Let’s turn your safari dreams into unforgettable memories—one trek, trail, and encounter at a time.