CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Amputated Lion Cross Kazinga Channel Queen Elizabeth NP

Jacob and Tibu: Lions of Unyielding Spirit

In Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park, two lion brothers, Jacob and Tibu, have captured the world’s attention with their extraordinary journey. Jacob, a ten-year-old lion who lost a hind leg to a poacher’s snare, and his brother Tibu, undertook a perilous 1.5km swim across the crocodile-infested Kazinga Channel—a feat never before documented for lions.

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we invite you to explore the landscapes where such remarkable stories unfold, offering you a chance to witness the resilience and determination of Africa’s majestic wildlife.

A Journey Fueled by Survival and Desire

The brothers’ daring swim was not a spontaneous act but a calculated move driven by survival instincts and the quest for mates. After losing a confrontation with rival males, Jacob and Tibu were compelled to seek new territory. The Kazinga Channel, teeming with crocodiles and hippos, stood between them and potential lionesses.

Their first two attempts to cross the channel were thwarted, likely due to the presence of predators and the challenging currents. Undeterred, they made a third attempt, successfully reaching the other side after a grueling 45-minute swim. This unprecedented event was captured using high-definition thermal imaging drones by a team led by Dr. Alexander Braczkowski of Griffith University.

Jacob: A Symbol of Resilience
Jacob’s life story is a testament to the challenges faced by lions in human-dominated landscapes. He has survived multiple life-threatening incidents, including being gored by a buffalo, the poisoning of his family, and losing a leg to a poacher’s snare. Despite these adversities, Jacob continues to thrive in the wild, embodying the resilience of Uganda’s lion population.

The Broader Context: Conservation Challenges

The lion population in Queen Elizabeth National Park has declined by half over the past five years, primarily due to human-wildlife conflict, poaching, and habitat loss. The current male-to-female ratio is approximately 2:1, intensifying competition for mates and prompting risky behaviors like the Kazinga Channel crossing.

By choosing Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, you support conservation efforts aimed at protecting these magnificent creatures and their habitats. Our tours are designed to educate and inspire, fostering a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between wildlife and human communities.

Experience the Wild with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours
Embark on a journey with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours to witness the raw beauty and resilience of Uganda’s wildlife. Our expert guides will lead you through Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering insights into the lives of lions like Jacob and Tibu.

Book your safari today and become part of a story that celebrates courage, survival, and the enduring spirit of the wild.

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Explore Uganda’s Wildlife at UWEC Before Your Gorilla Trekking Tour

A Perfect Prelude to Your Safari 2 Gorilla Tour Adventure

If you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime safari in Uganda with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) in Entebbe is the perfect starting point for your adventure. Often called a “zoo with a difference,” UWEC offers visitors a close-up look at Uganda’s rich biodiversity—setting the tone for the thrilling wildlife encounters ahead in the wild.

What is the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre?

Located on the serene shores of Lake Victoria, UWEC is more than just a zoo. It is a conservation education facility that rehabilitates injured, rescued, or orphaned animals and educates visitors about Uganda’s native species. Here, you can encounter lions, leopards, chimpanzees, shoebill storks, and more in environments designed to mimic their natural habitats.

Why Include UWEC in Your Safari Itinerary?

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we recommend visiting UWEC for a variety of reasons:

1. Educational Introduction to Uganda’s Wildlife

Before you head into the wilderness, UWEC provides context and background on the species you’ll likely encounter on your safari—especially the famous mountain gorillas.

2. Up-close Encounters in a Safe Setting

For those who may not venture deep into the jungle, UWEC offers a chance to see rescued primates, rhinos, and big cats up close, with guided tours led by passionate conservationists.

3. Chimpanzee Close-Up Experience

Book the behind-the-scenes “Chimpanzee Close-Up” for a rare chance to feed and interact with chimpanzees under expert supervision—an unforgettable add-on to your gorilla trekking journey.

4. Family-Friendly and Accessible

Not every traveler is ready for multi-hour treks in Bwindi or Mgahinga. UWEC is perfect for families, seniors, or those with time constraints, offering rich wildlife encounters in just a few hours.

Pairing UWEC with Gorilla Trekking

Your gorilla trekking tour with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours will take you deep into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where you’ll hike through misty jungles to observe endangered mountain gorillas in the wild. By visiting UWEC first, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the conservation efforts protecting these gentle giants.

How to Include UWEC in Your Safari 2 Gorilla Tours Package

Safari 2 Gorilla Tours offers flexible packages that can include a stop at UWEC—either upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport or as a relaxing final stop before departure. Our team will customize your itinerary to maximize your experience while supporting Uganda’s conservation efforts.

Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Whether you’re here for the majestic mountain gorillas, Uganda’s “Big Five,” or its incredible birdlife, let Safari 2 Gorilla Tours craft the perfect experience for you—from UWEC to the heart of the rainforest.

Click here to contact us today to book your Uganda safari adventure with a meaningful start at the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre.