Frequently Asked Questions of Uganda safaris
What sets Uganda apart?
Uganda is renowned for its majestic mountain gorillas. In the southwestern corner of Uganda, a remarkable population of mountain gorillas thrives, representing more than half of the world’s total. Gorilla trekking in Uganda offers an exhilarating wildlife experience that stands out in Africa. Uganda is renowned for its chimpanzee population, making chimp trekking a thrilling highlight of many journeys in the country.
Beyond the primates, Uganda’s remarkable bio-diversity and stunning landscapes create an exhilarating safari destination. Majestic big cats, towering elephants, and graceful giraffes await you on an exhilarating safari in Uganda.
In Africa, there are rare destinations that seamlessly blend the thrill of gorilla trekking and the excitement of savannah safaris with the stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountain peaks. The remarkable variety of experiences available in Uganda truly sets it apart.
What is the usual duration of a trip?
With an abundance of experiences available in Uganda, one could easily spend months exploring the country and uncovering something exciting each day.
Many first-time visitors to Uganda will concentrate on the south-west, where they can experience the thrill of gorilla trekking and/or chimpanzee trekking. These experiences often intertwine with an exhilarating game drive or a thrilling boat safari across Uganda’s savannah parks. This kind of experience usually spans about a week to ten days.
Most of the journeys we offer are custom-crafted, allowing us to create an itinerary that aligns perfectly with your travel plans, passions, and financial considerations.
When is the most exciting time to embark on this journey?
The concept of a ‘best time to go’ does not truly fit when it comes to Uganda. The country enjoys a tropical climate, experiencing rain for a significant part of the year. Additionally, the shifting weather patterns suggest that strict seasonal expectations are becoming a thing of the past.
The temperatures remain steady throughout the year. The amount of rainfall is the only thing that distinguishes the seasons. March and May bring the extended rainy season, while October to November features the brief rainy season. The gorillas are accessible throughout the entire year.
Explore a detailed month-by-month overview of Uganda right here.
Is it secure?
There is a common belief that the African continent presents challenges and uncertainties for travelers. Many repeat visitors share this feeling as they consider a journey to a new region, much like the first-timer who is excited yet anxious while planning their long-awaited trip to the continent.
The truth is that, much like any other region, the African continent is a realm of intricate realities, subtle nuances, and a constantly evolving landscape.
That is why when you ask us a question, you’ll often receive a detailed response. But it is also why we will always send you away with the assurance that not only will you be secure, but that you will also experience a sense of security. As you step out of the dull airport and into the vibrant sounds and aromas of Africa, any worries you had will quickly fade away.
Explore our comprehensive guide on staying safe in Uganda.
Is it costly?
When it comes to African safari destinations, Uganda stands out as one of the more affordable choices. Safaris in Uganda offer a more affordable experience compared to those in Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Zimbabwe has embarked on a journey towards opulence in recent years, resulting in higher costs compared to Uganda. Zambia and Botswana tend to have higher costs compared to Uganda.
Gorilla permits introduce a set expense to many travel plans ($800 per person as of now), yet even with this consideration, Uganda remains more affordable than its neighboring safari locations.
The cost you incur is greatly influenced by the duration of your journey, the quality of lodging you choose, and the size of your travel group.
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What can you tell me about the lodging options?
Uganda offers a diverse array of places to stay, along with a growing collection of upscale lodges. The renowned national parks offer a variety of choices from upscale to economical, and in the Rwenzori Mountains, there are thrilling camping experiences available.
The simple truth is that regardless of how you prefer to travel, there are fantastic lodges and hotels waiting for you in Uganda.
There may be areas where only simpler lodging options are available, yet even in these places, they are generally suitable for most international travelers. If you are seeking luxurious accommodation, the choices are expanding rapidly, offering a fantastic array of upscale lodges and hotels. However, they still fall slightly short of the premier experiences available in Kenya, Tanzania, or Zimbabwe, though they are certainly making impressive strides…
Discover the wonders of Uganda’s hotels and lodges.
What is the cuisine like?
The food options in Uganda are quite exciting. You will discover an array of international style menus brimming with fresh produce. While local influence may be limited, lodges often host a special evening dedicated to Ugandan cuisine, showcasing delicious roast meat, plantain (matoke), and maize meal.
The high-end lodges may not fully match the culinary excellence found in the finest spots of Kenya or Tanzania, but they are making strides towards improvement. Lunches are often surprising, even in the finest places.
What level of fitness and activity is required for me?
All classic safari routes are readily available and do not demand exceptionally high fitness levels. Gorilla trekking demands a solid level of fitness, as you may find yourself navigating through dense forests for as long as 6 hours. Chimpanzee trekking often offers a more accessible experience compared to gorilla trekking, though this can vary. It is important to be prepared for extended hours of trekking for either adventure.
Conquering the heights of the Rwenzori Mountains demands exceptional fitness and resilience.
Is Uganda a great destination for families with kids?
Without a doubt. Ugandans have a deep affection for children and create a welcoming atmosphere for families. The country offers a plethora of activities that can create an itinerary to delight everyone. The minimum age requirement for the gorillas is 15, but there are still exciting experiences for younger children to enjoy.
Families can explore Uganda with complete peace of mind. Discover more about safety in Uganda here.
Exploring Uganda on your own?
Uganda is an exciting destination for solo travellers. Guides provide a sense of safety and support, while itineraries can easily adapt to your needs and can be designed to reduce expenses if required.
Uganda boasts numerous charming lodges where you can connect with fellow adventurers during your journey.
When is the best time to make a reservation?
If you are planning to trek to the mountain gorillas during your visit to Uganda, it is wise to secure your booking well ahead of your travel dates. Gorilla permits are in high demand and are strictly limited. It’s quite typical to secure reservations a year and a half ahead of your journey.
Yet, when journeying during the serene months of April, May, June, and October, it is always a good idea to ask about spontaneous departures. Fortune might just smile upon you!
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What are the best ways to navigate through Uganda?
Many travel plans will incorporate both road and air travel. When soaring through the skies, you will often find yourself in a Cessna caravan light aircraft. While the domestic flight network in Uganda may be somewhat restricted, you can soar into airstrips close to the primary national parks in the south-west.
As many travel plans focus mainly on this area, the internal flights are more than adequate for the majority of explorers. If you are venturing past the southwestern highlights, prepare for some extended journeys on the road.
Chartering domestic flights around the country is also an option.
On the roads, you will be journeying in modern 4WD off-roaders, but brace yourself for an exhilarating ride! The roads connecting the national parks can be thrilling journeys. Fortunately, if you’re exploring the south-west, your journey by road will be just a few hours long. There are numerous opportunities to pause and recharge, and we’ll make every effort to reduce your time spent traveling.
