Eagle Air: Uganda Air Service Provider based at Entebbe Airport
Eagle Air is an airline based in Kampala, Uganda. It operates regional scheduled services and charter flights across East and Central Africa. Its main base is Entebbe International Airport.
The airline was established in June 1994 and started operations in November 1994.
Services
Eagle Air offers scheduled and chartered flights to domestic and certain regional destinations, including air safaris to Ugandan national parks. In addition, it offers chartered flights within the East and Central Africa Region.
Destinations
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Driving Uganda on Honeymoon
Uganda is a safe country and welcomes every kind of travelers, among those who come to this country are the honeymooners. There are many attractions to Explore, and one of the best ways to enjoy the country is through driving or road trip in the country. Renting a car in Uganda is easy and affordable.
Advantages of self-driving on honey moon
Visitors on honey moon need privacy, and renting a car and drive is the best way to enjoy privacy on the trip, you will be just you in the car, interacting while enjoying the beauty of the pearl of Africa.
Visitors on Honey moon, will enjoy the freedom of not being limited by the all-inclusive safari involving a set Itinerary, there are some places which may seem to be good and better for honeymooners, visitors can decide to stay longer in such destinations.
To a certain extent, It becomes easy to change accommodation when visitors find they are not satisfied by the kind of the first choice. Honeymooners prefer a stress-free safari and the care from the accommodation facilities is paramount.
Honeymooners can decide to go with Rooftop tent to enjoy the thrill of sleeping on top of the car. This is magical, the two love birds to be on top of the car in the African wilderness.
Visitors can decide to go with the Ground tents. This camping safari reduces on the costs of accommodation. Meaning even honeymooners who are on tight budget can explore the country. Camping safaris are fun and enjoyable, it’s another way of exploring the country.
Destinations which can be visited on Honeymoon trip by Self-driving
Primate parks of Uganda: These parks include Kibale Forest, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga national park. They are known to be home to the great primates, the Mountain gorillas and Chimpanzees. Honey mooner can drive to these parks to spend some time with the close relatives of humans as scientists confirmed. The permits to track these creatures can be secured by the car rental company prior to the dates of the trip. This is because they are subject to availability.
Wildlife Parks: Road trip safaris to these parks is perfect idea, explore on your own in parks like Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison falls National Park, Lake Mburo National Park and many more. Game drives are conducted to Enjoy the wild animals including the big five. Clients on Rentals Uganda can see animals like Leopards, Elephants, Lions, Buffaloes, Antelopes and many more. There is an idea of hiring the park guide for the game drive to give useful information in the game drive.
Jinja in the Eastern Uganda: This destination has many adventure activities which can be relaxing and fun to Honey mooners. Drive to Jinja and engage in activities like white water rafting, Bungee Jumping, swimming, boat cruises, Horse riding and among others. Renting a car and drive to Jinja is one of the best ways to enjoy the place, Honey mooners are free to spend many days at this destination, discovering wonders on Lake Victoria and River Nile.
Lake Bunyonyi: This is one of the Deepest lakes in Africa. Found in Western Uganda Kabale, Lake Bunyonyi is one of the best relaxing places. Book a car hire trip to lake Bunyonyi and enjoy the boat cruise to many Island of the lake, Visit the Batwa, swimming, and among others. Relaxing at the lake is so cool and you enjoy the honey moon experiences.
Drive to Kapchorwa, around Mount Elgon National Park. This place is so beautiful, starting from the topography of land, the culture of the people and the weather. Enjoy the sipi falls on the slopes of Mountain Elgon, this is one of the best places to visit on the Honey moon driving trips. Nature walks are conducted by local guides and the falls has 3 series. Book with 4×4 rental cars Uganda have a wonderful driving safari.
Accommodation Facilities for Honeymooners on Driving Trip
Four Gorillas Lodge
The lodge is found in Rushaga a section of Bwindi National Park. It offers luxury services to visitors including those on honey moon. The lodge is near the starting point or briefing point for most of activities in Bwindi. This of an advantage as there is no need to drive long distance to access the starting point. Their cottages are surrounded by the forest providing the cool breathe to the honey mooners. The cottages are Ensuit offering both local international cuisines.
Turaco Tree Tops:
It is located around Kibale national park, one of the best destinations. They offer guests unique experience; the lodge has stunning views of snow-capped mountain Rwenzori. The rooms and cottages were built for comfort and let you be immersed in nature. There are attractions around the accommodation like the birds, monkeys and butterflies, the lodge also prepares you for the unforgettable experience the chimpanzee tracking in kibale and other activities around.
Read MoreNature frozen in Time at the Entebbe Botanical Gardens
Never mind the January to March dry spell, at the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, the flora and fauna is perpetually green. The manicured lawns are inviting to those who want to relax under the shade of the huge trees.
The gardens are not just for nature lovers; musicians such as Jose Chameleon have shot their music videos here, and many newly married couples come here for photo shoots. A number of movies also contain scenes shot here. The gardens have a natural rainforest with pathways for those who want to stroll under its cooling foliage.
On our visit there, we chose to stroll through the forest and got to the ornamental section of the garden.
The newly planted ornamental plants are a sight to awaken all senses — touch, vision and smell.
We could not resist picking some of the flowers to feel and take in the scent.
Our guide, Madina Kasoma, who is also the nursery attendant, interrupted our brief romance with the flowers. “We sell some of the plants and flowers and also propagate to replace old ones,” she explained as we moved on to another section.
The Entebbe Botanical Gardens is the country’s sole plant conservatory with a gene bank. It is situated on the shores of Lake Victoria, a few minutes away from the Entebbe International Airport, making it an ideal stopover venue for travelers in or out of the country.
Founded by the British colonial government in 1898, the 40.7acres garden continues to serve its purposes — education, conservation, recreation and research.
Researchers use the gene bank that keeps collection of seeds of different plants while the garden provides a research base for plants.
Another section offers a variety of plants with medicinal properties. The guide led us to two huge trees, said to be over 100 years old.
The trees have long tap roots, where vervet monkeys play, breastfeed young ones or groom each other.
The Botanical Gardens are perfect for school field studies, as it offers a lot on the country’s biodiversity and conservation efforts.
For the first time I saw the tea tree, which is used in the manufacture of cosmetics, and is nothing like the tea bush grown for brewing. This one is big and has seeds.
There is also an orchard, but being off season, we did not find any fruits. Madina said the fruit season means a scramble between the monkeys, birds and people.
A plus for the gardens are the several bird species such as the water birds that can be viewed at the beach. Tourists favorite though are the black and white Columbus monkey the dragon spiders and the rainforest.
The latter offers relief from the high early year temperatures and a staircase for easy descent down the hill to a well-maintained clearing through which clear water gently meanders out of a natural spring in the middle of the forest.
The water creates a “river between” the two rain forests in the garden. Our guide informs us that the spring has never dried even during the driest of spells.
The staircase leads us to the rock gardens. “We use these plants to educate people that some plants can grow on the rocks. So after touring you can sit right here,” said our guide pointing to the rock.
The design of the gardens is alluring. Not only does it attract conservationists, researchers and learners, more and more tourists are visiting.
On average, John Wasswa Mulumba, the garden’s curator says between 10,000 and 16,000 people in small groups visit the gardens annually.
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The Uganda Martyrs’ Trail
The Uganda Martyrs Trail is Uganda’s exclusive faith-based tourism product that takes you through different places where the first Christian missionaries passed and preached from, and where some of the Uganda Martyrs were killed before their bodies were taken to be burnt at Namugongo.
The death of these martyrs has always been memorable in the hearts of many people especially Christians who celebrate the lives of the martyrs on 3rd June of every year a day the republic of Uganda considers as the Uganda Martyrs’ Day and a public holiday. Their remembrance was amplified when the Catholic Church of Rome beatified the martyrs of its faith in 1920 and canonized them in 1964.
Many pilgrims, especially Christians, from all over the world descend to the Pearl of Africa to join together with Ugandans to commemorate the martyrs’ day. This is celebrated in remembrance of 45 young men (recorded) both Anglicans and Catholics who were killed on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II (then the King of the Buganda Kingdom in Central Uganda), for refusing to renounce their faith in Jesus Christ or Christianity. The execution took place between November 1885 to June 1886 with a climax at Namugongo on 3rd June 1886, after the Kabaka (king) thought the Whites were ‘infiltrating’ his subjects with Christianity to cause rebellion against him. As a result he killed most of his servants at Namugongo.
Since its launch in 2014, the Uganda Martyrs Trail was expanded to cover such places like:
- Mapeera site in Ssese
‘Mapeera Site’ at Bugoma, Buggala Island in Ssese is the spot where Fr. Simeon Lourdel, who was later named “Mapeera” and Brother Amans first touched Ugandan soil when they landed at the site to spend the night of 15th February 1879 on their way to Lubaga to meet with Kabaka Muteesa I, seeking permission to set up a camp in Buganda to preach, teach and spread Christianity. - Kigungu Church, Entebbe
This is the second spot where Fr. Simeon Lourdel & Brother Amans landed on 17th February 1879 after spending a night at Bugoma, Buggala Island in Ssese, en route to Munyonyo to meet with Kabaka Muteesa I. - Mapeera site in Kisubi
On their way to meet with King Muteesa I at Munyonyo palace, the missionaries also stayed at Kisubi, on the shores of Lake Victoria along Entebbe road, a place the Catholic Church later revamped and established a seminary, schools and a well maintained beach and gardens. - Uganda Martyrs’ shrine, Munyonyo
In the same area where Kabaka Muteesa I had his palace lies the Munyonyo Matryrs’ Shrine. This is the place where the missionaries met with the Kabaka who had earlier on written a letter to Queen Victoria of UK in 1876 inviting Christians to come, teach and preach in the Buganda Kingdom. It’s also the place where the journey of the Martyrs, both Catholics and Anglicans, began before their martyrdom at Namugongo, happening after Kabaka Mwanga had assumed power when his father (Kabaka Muteesa I) died in 1884.
It was at Munyonyo where King Mwanga took the crucial decision to begin putting Christians to death. The blood of Uganda’s martyrs was shed on the soil around Munyonyo. The first three Christians to render their lives for Christ’s sake after the king’s decision did so on 26 May 1886. They included, St. Denis Ssebugwawo and St. Andrew Kaggwa. It is also in this place where in 1886 Saint Charles Lwanga, leader of the Christian community in Uganda baptized St. Kizito, St. Mbaga, St. Gyavira and St. Muggaga.
The place has now been refurbished with a Cathedral and a monument which were inaugurated by Pope Francis on 27th November 2015, when he visited the Pearl of Africa.
- Uganda Martyrs’ shrine, Namugongo (both Anglican & Catholics’ side)
The climax of the plight that befell the Uganda Martyrs between 1885 and 1886 happened at Namugongo, and the place was earmarked by the construction of a church. The construction of the Uganda Martyrs’ Shrine (Catholics section) began in 1967 and it was completed and formally opened by the special Papal envoy, His Eminence Sergio Cardinal Pignedoli on 3rd June 1975.
The Uganda Martyrs minor basilica/Shrine is a Catholic church dedicated to the Martyrs of Uganda who shed their blood because of the Christian faith. The Shrine is well known for its beautiful and unique interior and exterior, but it is especially notable for its shape and architectural plan: the 22 copper pillars-over 100 feet long that support the shrine built in form of an African hut and its wooden doors that depict the history of the Martyrs. The Shrine has a capacity 1000 seats arranged in a circular form.
It is here that 14 of the 22 Catholic Uganda Martyrs were burnt alive, on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II in 1886, having refused to denounce their Christian faith. Following the holocaust of these Martyrs which reached a climax on 3rd June, 1886 Namugongo has steadily taken on the image of attraction as a place of pilgrimage, as God simultaneously has honoured them before Believers.
On 6th June 1920 Pope Benedict XV beatified the Uganda Martyrs. Pope Paul VI canonized them on Mission Sunday, 8th October, 1964 in Saint Peter’s Basilica, Rome. The same Pope honoured the Martyrs with a pilgrimage on 31st July to 2nd August 1969 – the first visit ever by a pope to the African Continent.
Remembering the work executed by St. Charles Lwanga when still a page in King Mwanga’s palace, when he spearheaded the excavation of the legendary Kabaka’s lake in Ndeeba, a Martyrs’ lake was excavated at Namugongo. Many pilgrims have often drawn water from this lake and later given testimonies about this water healing them of various diseases.
The Pavilion (Island) in the lake is another unique feature at Namugongo with a clear view that can be seen from all angles of the over 15 acres Shrine compound. It is inside this pavilion where the main celebrant sits on big occasions like Martyrs’ day, June 3. This grass thatched pavilion, also in circular form like the Shrine is supported by 4 pillars and can accommodate more than 300 priests and a number of bishops that turn for the High Mass on Martyrs Day.
In remembrance of the 23 (recorded) Anglican martyrs, the Anglican Church of Uganda also constructed a museum that collects all the information of the story, right from the coming of the first missionaries, to the torture of the martyrs and the spread of Christianity all over Uganda. Visiting these places shall provide you with all inspirational and spiritual knowledge.
Both sites have so far been visited by three Popes; including; Pope Paul VI in 1969, Pope John Paul II in 1993 and Pope Francis in 2015.
When to do it
One can visit at any time of the year but the most favorable time is between May and July every year, during which you can also join in the annual celebrations of 3rd June every year.
Why Hire a Car & Driver in Uganda
Having a safari in Uganda is one of the most enjoying and thrilling moments in the life of any adventurous traveller. The country is located in the Eastern corner of the African continent bordered by Kenya to the East, South Sudan to the North, Democratic Republic of Congo to the west, Rwanda to the southwest and Tanzania to the west. With an area of approximately 241,038 square kilometers, Uganda ranks as the 79th largest country in the world. It accommodates around 50 million people of where 8.5 occupy the capital and largest city of Kampala. The country was named after the kingdom of Buganda which encloses the largest portion including the capital city- Kampala. The official language of Uganda is English and Swahili though Luganda is the widely spoken throughout the country.
Referred to as the Pearl of Africa, Uganda is a home to various ideal tourist attractions which are the main key to your memorable safari. From the rich cultural practices of over 56 tribes, to unique species in different destinations including the mountain gorillas in Mgahinga gorilla national park and Bwindi Impenetrable national park, the rare tree climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, the golden monkeys in Mgahinga national park, and the chimpanzees in Kibale forest national park. The country includes a portion of the largest fresh water lake in Africa – Lake Victoria which is shared with Kenya and Tanzania.
When planning for a safari, we believe that there is a great benefit of hiring a car with a driver in Uganda during your trip. A driver is person hired to transport the travellers to their place of booking. This person ensures that the traveller gets to the destination comfortably and safely and also at a planned period of time. Besides your safety and comfort, there are other benefits of hiring a car with a driver including;
Informative
Much as you make research about the Uganda tourist attractions during your planning for a trip, you can never get all the accurate and necessary information than a local driver or guide. A skilled driver always possesses all the information and knowledge about the tourist destination including its history, the current facts, and activities to be done and also the attractions to be seen thus making him or her favorable for your travel.
Relaxing drive
While travelling with a driver or guide, you get a relaxing drive and do other things like businesses online and chatting with your friends as a professional driver takes you to your destination.
Time management
Drivers or tour guides are trained to get to the desired destination of the client at a planned time. Time management is always a difficult task to the self-drive clients and yet it is a key factor to a successful travel or safari. +
Language barrier
It should be remembered that most Uganda attractions are located in remote areas where the number of illiterates is at a high rate. Language is a basic tool for communication and this may make your safari hectic in case you land on people who don’t know how to speak English. Therefore, travelling with a driver who can ease the communication with the locals is an added advantage.
Wildlife viewing
This is among the main reasons why a driver is important during your travel to Uganda. Wildlife viewing is one of the most thrilling experiences during any safari which one can miss when driving him/herself. This is because all the concentration and attention will be on the road thus missing out some animals but when you hire the driver, you will get a chance to use the pop up roof for an excellent game viewing exercise.
Also, the guides or drivers are always good at tracking different animals especially the cats like lions, hyenas and leopards which might be difficult when you are on your own. And while driving yourself, you might find a hard time to take the pictures of the animals in the plains of the park since the attention will be on a car.
Safety
While on the main roads, it’s always easy for you to have a self-drive experience since most of the roads are in good conditions however while going to the entrances of the attractions, the off main roads are in poor conditions thus a need for an experienced driver to drive on these roads especially during the rainy weathers since they are always slippery.
Read MoreTravel Tips for Persons with Disabilities
In the past times, people with disabilities were marginalized and despised because of their vulnerability. However, over the years, the world has changed and they are accepted. People have learned that disability is not inability. A disabled person can perform the same duties or engage in activities as an able-bodied one. Various countries have enacted laws and policies to protect, accommodate and make life easier for the disabled. For instance, public buildings and places have set up facilities to accommodate persons with disabilities.
With the direction the world at large is taking to make life easier for the disabled, these vulnerable people are able to travel for a holiday and engage in various adventurous and recreation activities. Albeit the facilities and services have been developed for the disabled, there are still challenges for them, particularly when traveling solely or visiting a foreign destination like Uganda.
1. Plan the trip beforehand.
The success of a trip majorly hinges on planning and preparing. It is very essential to plan earlier for your Uganda safari trip because it alleviates the stakes of getting disrupted and impeded. Reserving travel items such as accommodation, park activities, flight, and car hire is greatly significant. If you are to use a ground handler, it could be a local tour company, family, or friend, informing them of your visit is very vital. They can book the facilities you need putting into consideration of your condition.
2. Use lodges that disabled catering
Accommodation establishments with disabled-friendly facilities are very conducive as they permit persons with disabilities to swiftly operate with less effort. Most hotels and lodges in Uganda have facilities like elevators, wheelchairs, stairless pathways, and emergency exits that ensure people with immobility are accommodated.
3. Book with a tour operator that provides safari packages for disabled tourists
Well-established tour companies know how to manage and arrange tour packages for visitors with disabilities. They know which hotels and lodges to book, the activities to enjoy, and the kind of safari vehicle. The tour operators in Uganda are able to organize for the disabled to take part in activities that many call impossible for them. For instance, disabled people have been seen engaging in gorilla tracking with the help of a local tour company. What normally the tour operators do is inform the Uganda Wildlife Authority about the client’s condition and they are allocated to a near gorilla family for tracking. Sedan chairs and porters are hired to carry the disabled persons to reach the habitat of the gorillas and enjoy the huge apes in their natural setting. The ground transportation arranged for persons with disabilities is normally 4×4 Uganda car hire and spacious enough for them to have the comfort while traveling.
4. Understand and know your privileges when at the airport and any other public place.
It is a bit daunting for people with immobility to travel particularly when they get to the airport or any other transport hub. It is very hard for them to get the right data and directions due to the business of the airport caused by the big crowds and long queues. There is normally personnel at the airport that is meant to attend to people with special needs during their transit.
Disabled are protected from any kind of discrimination from air transport operating entities. However, when it comes to security, they have to go through any security protocol established at any facility. These vulnerable individuals are advised to know their rights to prevent and report any injustices that may be done to them during their travel.
5. Carry extra medication
It does not cost a thing to pack extra prescriptions while traveling. There is a possibility of your baggage getting lost during transit, so having a backup plan will save you a lot. This is also one way of ensuring that you don’t run out of your tablets inconveniencing to getting others that might not be available at the destination you may have visited. The drugs must be kept in a proper and accessible place.
6. Save and take your doctor’s contact number and email when traveling.
Before you plan to travel, visit your doctor to seek advice on whether it is possible for you to travel to a foreign destination and participate in certain tour activities. When given a go-ahead, ask the doctor for the necessary information about your condition and the quick remedies to take in case any issue arises. The doctor’s contact should also be noted and saved, you may need to seek help when far away.
7. Book Short flights
Long haul and connecting flights are very challenging for persons with disabilities. There is a lot of hassle involved like waiting for long hours with the heavy luggage at the medium airport to connect to the final destination. Using a direct flight alleviates all the obstacles and energy and time are saved. A direct flight flies straight to your final destination without any stopover.
8. Get travel information about the place to visit
This goes to sole disabled travelers, there is nothing harder to find like a place you literally don’t know about. You are advised to search for travel information about the places to go, accommodation to stay, the most convenient means of transport, and eateries to dine at to have a clue of how to go about your itinerary while at the destination. The source of information can be the internet, travel magazines or guides, and friends and family. The information helps in situations of being stuck, in need of urgent attention, and loss of your bearing.
9. Bring the necessary luggage
Luggage carrying is one of the most hectic tasks when traveling, it gets worse when it comes to disabled people. Therefore, you are advised to get luggage, you can easily manage while traveling most preferably it should be one suitcase. Having two or more big luggage will be so hard to monitor since they are placed on the plane randomly and the same applies when they are being dislodged off on the convey belt at the airport. You may bring a huge luggage if you are moving with a partner or group.
10. Free up your mind
Don’t feel pity for yourself, disability is not inability. You can go through or do anything that other people do. Enjoy your travel as nothing can stop you.
Read More7 Reasons to Rent a Car for Uganda Travels
Majority of visitors to Uganda love and enjoy travelling like locals but this doesn’t necessarily mean using public transport means from one safari destination to another, owing to their inaccessibility in some areas. While public transport means are cheaper and sometimes reliable, they aren’t ideal for safaris if you hope to have a wonderful road trip. Just the thrill and excitement of driving in a foreign country can’t be hidden but keep in mind that it is also overwhelming. However, most tourists prefer Uganda car rentals for safaris and having a personal car is about to open up a whole different World of possibilities.
It is undeniable that some safari destinations are just wonderful and perfect for exploring via a personal car than others. It would pay a lot to rent a car for discovering the National Parks and Wildlife Reserves in Uganda but visiting top Cities and Towns don’t require having a Rental Car. However, these are the 7 genuine reasons why you won’t regret travelling with a Car Rental;
Rental Car offer the much needed convenience while uncovering the natural beauty of Uganda
You don’t need convincing that no public transport means can offer the convenience and freedom of travelling than a rental car. If you desire 100%, go an extra mile to hire a self-drive vehicle to make your circle of freedom complete. Unlike public transport means, you won’t be subjected to schedules and timetables in addition to having the liberty of changing your plans as you deem fit. We all know that spontaneous detours always make for the most unforgettable parts of your safari. One thing you should always keep in mind is that every day matters when exploring new safari destinations and if you have few days, it might not be advisable to spend a lot of time on public buses or taxis/Matatus. Given the numerous stops to pick and drop passengers, public transport means always take twice the normal time for getting to final destinations.
The possibility of discovering new safari destinations
Do you know that majority of Uganda’s safari destinations are in remote places and definitely not within the City limits? This is where you will be glad for renting a car because there is possibility of driving several distances from phenomenal surroundings. Renting a car therefore makes it possible to widen the scope of safari destination you are able to explore. For instance if you are driving to Murchison falls National Park, it is possible to incorporate a trip to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and if travelling to Kasese (Queen Elizabeth National Park), having a Rental car makes it possible to make a stop at Lake Mburo National Park and other wonderful tourist sites along the way.
Flexibility
What would you do if you desired to discover other places that aren’t part of the itinerary? This wouldn’t be an issue if you are using a Rental Car because you can always make a detour and explore beautiful and irresistible places without sticking to a certain program. Additionally, it is possible to make stops whenever you wish without any restrictions as it is with public transport means.
Rental Cars are cost effective
It is undoubted that public transport means are cheaper way of getting around large Cities and Towns but did you know that for the freedom and convenience offered by Rental Cara actually makes them remarkably cheaper? For Rental Cars in Uganda, it is possible to get a deal of as low as $40 per day, which makes it incredibly cheaper than what you will pay for when using a bus (about $10 for the same journey) but when it comes to the flexibility and the fact that costs can be shared among passengers, it is cost effective in the long run.
Chances of enjoying a great deal of comfort
If you are looking for comfort during your Ugandan safari, then you have no business being on a public transportation. For Rental Cars, you get to stretch and spread out as you like, make stop as you please and most importantly get to control who you wish to share your personal space with. All these sound like small things but having the freedom to adjust what music to be played, the air-conditioner and any other thing is paramount for your road trip. Worse still, most public buses don’t really have air-conditioners.
It is possible to understand restrictions
When making choices of whether to use a Car Rental or public transport means, it is advisable to always understand the restrictions that are involved, given the fact that they differ between Companies. For this reason, it is important to first read through terms and conditions before making bookings. The commonest restrictions concern mileage/distance.
Privacy
There is totally no privacy in using public transport means, yet it is possible when using a Rental Car. It is possible to have private conversations with family without being bothered by strangers interfering or listening.
If you need a car rental always contact as 4x4uganda car rental, we offer the best rates possible
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Self Guided Safari a New Way of Exploring Uganda
What comes to your mind when you hear self-guided safari? let me make it easy for you, Self guided tour is a travel expedition where a traveller explores a destination on his own without the services of a guide.
Self-guided safaris are trending ventures in which travellers are opting to explore the pearl of Africa. Uganda is indeed the pearl of Africa and to prove the saying you need to get up, plan, pack up, dress up and hit the road to the over blessed nature land.
Self guided safaris are replacing the conventional guided safari tours in this Era and in years to come it will be the only burning show taken on by every traveller to discover Africa’s wilderness.
Some travellers tend to ignore self guided safaris because of the fear of self-catering which involves hiring a car Uganda, driving to the destination, choosing affordable accommodation and blending in the natural world all alone. With a travel plan, you can definitely have a successful safari that includes roof tent camping in Uganda or book a budget accommodation.
Let me tell you a secret behind travel “self-guided safari is the cheapest” since you get to manage your pocket.
The opportunity for you to adventure the wilderness at any destination on your travel plan is unlimited and the best part is to unlock new places of interest which you get to share with the rest who haven’t got a chance.
The freedom during a self drive tour is infinite and you have enough time to feel nature to the maximum. The best part is that you can acquire a guide to take you through your game drive tracks.
Self-drive safari is so rewarding, many travellers are relishing to engage in this kind of travel. First of all, it is cheap and affordable whereby you don’t have to rely on a driver or guide but only consider paying, Car rental Uganda, park entrances and activities and accommodation. With a self-guided safari, you are in charge of your itinerary and can make changes depending on what to do and where to go next. You get to determine how many stopovers to make because you rule your travel.
Uganda is ranked the ultimate self-guided safari destination because of its numerous national parks and other eye-catching attractions positioned in different parts for a great safari experience and these include:
Queen Elizabeth national park
This is a classic big five home with tree climbing lions as the bestselling tourism product. The park offers several activities that are enticing and fun to engage in while on an expedition. Activities range from game drives, boat cruises at Kazinga channel, chimp tracking, nature walks, birding, cultural encounter among others. On a self-guided safari, you choose what to engage in and the reward comes with a wilderness experience. The accommodations at the park are fancy and reach the standards of its clients. Read More
Murchison falls national park
One of the main features of the Murchison conservation area is Murchison falls, the devil’s cauldron. This is known for its fierce, violent roar as water squeezes through a narrow gorge forming a water misty surrounding and a beautiful colourful rainbow. It creates what we refer to “beauty meets nature”. The park has much to offer directly from the fresh greenery surrounding and activities such as game viewing, launch cruise at the great Nile River, guided nature walk, birding, top of the falls, hot air balloon and the view of the Uhuru falls. The road network calls for a great adventure most especially the off beaten tracks in the park. Read More
Kampala city tour
Nothing beats the fun chaotic Kampala Uganda’s capital city. The number of Boda Boda cyclists appearing from every corner of the road will surprise you. The people are polite and welcoming though you should hold your belongings tight from the jobless thugs who want to work in other people’s pockets. Let’s put that aside and focus on the attractions waiting to be explored on a beautiful day and these include kasubi tombs, Namirembe cathedral, Rubaga cathedral, Bahai temple, old Kampala mosque, Uganda museum among others. The roads in Kampala are well constructed reaching the standards of every traveller.
Bwindi Impenetrable national park
Although Bwindi is situated far away from Kampala presenting a challenging and long road journey, it is worth a visit on a self-guided trip. It is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, one of the most sought after apes in the eco-tourism world. gorilla tracking in Bwindi is an exciting experience as you get to meet and interact with the gorillas in the wild. These huge primates are fascinating to watch especially their social characters. A Self Drive in Uganda’s Bwindi is splendorous! Read More
Uganda is ranked the best among the countries which offer self-guided road trips to tourists. Vehicles to hire are available from different rental operators; accommodations are plenty and comfortable and cosy offering delicious meals, Camping, BBQ served. The African wilderness presenting a variety of wildlife species and endless plains is also worth a mention. Uniquely explore Uganda on your own and save money with a reward of a lifetime experience.
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Top Activities to Do with Gorilla Trekking
Few have enjoyed an encounter with the rare Mountain Gorilla species. If you have never enjoyed this memorable experience, Uganda should be your next drop off destination.
Popularly known as the Pearl of Africa, this amazing destination is one of the three localities that treat visitors with an incredible gorilla safari encounter. It is located in East Africa and home to two gorilla National Parks that host more than half of the world’ Mountain gorilla total population.
One of these two national parks is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The world famous Bwindi Impenetrable forest is tucked far in the South western part of Uganda. Most of its area is occupied by the impenetrable rainforest. This stretch of trees, shrubs and other vegetation types is home to not only Mountain Gorillas, but also to Wildlife, different Bird species, insects and reptiles.
There are many reasons why most tourists consider Bwindi Impenetrable forest for gorilla trek other than Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. One of them is the wider-angle of gorilla families. Almost 95 percent of Uganda’s gorilla population is found in the four sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
The trekking is offered in four sectors that include Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga and Nkuringo sector. Each sector is home to not less than three Gorilla families. With this variety, you can do multiple trekking expeditions by visiting a different Gorilla family per day. For the best gorilla photos, this is your destination.
For one to be able to track these gentle creatures, a tracking permit is a must have and at the moment its costs US$700 per person per day alongside a clear bill of health. Physical fitness, age (you must be 15 years and above) and free from infectious diseases. Apart from Normal Gorilla trekking which allows only 1 hour of public viewing, below are some of the other interesting activities to keep you occupied while in Bwindi Impenetrable forest National park for a few more days.
Gorilla habituation experience; Only Bwindi Impenetrable forest National Park offers this exceptional treat to spend more time with Gorillas in the Jungle. It is almost similar with Gorilla trekking, but what differs is the time spent in the viewing, in the company of the gorillas and cost for the permit. For habituation gorilla experience, visitors are allowed to spend about four hours in the company of the gorillas, as they move, they are allowed to follow their movements in the Jungle for only 4 hours. This time is enough to take multiple photos and videos of these apes. The tracking permit for this experience at the moment costs $ 1500 USD per person per day which is more than twice the normal gorilla experience.
Bird watching; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a mecca for bird watchers. It is recorded with hundreds of unique bird species. Therefore it easy to understand why most birders prefer it while in Uganda. One of the major hot spots you shouldn’t miss for birding is the Mubwindi swamp. It is advised to arrange for these excursions either early in the morning when these species are dispersing or in the evening when there are congregating for night stays.
Batwa community visit; the Batwa community visit is another interesting activity to do in Bwindi impenetrable forest National park. This pursuits lets you to meet with the Batwa people also known as people of the forest in their communities as they share their experience through cultural performances like singing and dancing. This activity is offered to the Batwa community. These people were forest dwellers and hunters, but where later relocated to the local community by the Government of Uganda. Apart from traditional performances, it also covers walks to different villages, basket weaving for ladies, agricultural, and demonstrations of use of traditional music instruments and hunting tools.
Forest Walks; later in the evening or for those with a free day don’t miss the forest walks in Bwindi Impenetrable forest. These guided expeditions are offered in groups following the well-established trails with a guide to give an insight about the numerous wildlife and plant species within the forest. Forest walks in Bwindi Impenetrable forest are not only good for your health, but also award in panoramic views of rolling hills, towering volcanoes and different species of tress, reptiles, insects and so much more.
Read More5 Tips For Fuel Efficiency On Your Self Drive Road Trip In Uganda
If you are one of the drivers that are greatly concerned about the price of fuel or wish to minimize the negative effects of your driving on the natural environment, you don’t necessarily require disposing of your car for an improved or to subcompact the budget.
Are you aware that your car can actually burn up to 30% more fuel if thorough maintenance is not carried out on a regular basis? Yes, it is possible and it is a known fact that regular maintenance of the vehicle has a number of benefits but we still ignore it. Oftentimes, travelers wonder how to save on fuel during self drive Uganda Safaris and we bring you the 5 tips for fuel efficiency on your road trip in Uganda;
Avoid leaving the car idle for a long time
One of the 5 tips for fuel efficiency on your road trip in Uganda is not leaving the car idle for a long time (more than a minute) because idling consumes from half a gallon to a full gallon of fuel per hour and unfortunately pumps unrequired Carbon dioxide into the air. Most present-day engines can consume less fuel when turned off and re-started again them idling for a long time. To successfully warm your engine, drive it and avoid reversing it. Modern engines also work harder under load and are likely to warm up faster when simply started hence you can wait for 20 seconds before driving away.
Utilize Cruise Control
If required/relevant, make use of your cruise control (a system that impulsively controls the speed of a car, hence reducing fatigue that you would feel while driving long distances. Most importantly, cruise control helps to save up to 6% in fuel consumption especially when driving on highways.
Conduct regular engine checks
Conducting regular engine checks is another way to ensure fuel efficiency on your road trip in Uganda. Since the development of computer-controlled fuel injection, there is nothing as old-fashioned tune-up anymore. If the worst comes to the worst, you may be required to change spark plugs, fuel filters, oxygen sensor and air filters among others.
Smooth and steadily driving
By using light throttle and avoiding heavy sudden brakes, you will save a great deal on fuel in addition to tear and wear. Research also shows that good or bad driving techniques will greatly influence on the overall fuel efficiency (at least by 30%) during your road trip in Uganda. As for steady driving, you will need to slow down as over speeding wastes a lot of fuel. Additionally, stay away from tailgating because it not only wastes fuel but is also not safe.
Avoid rough roads whenever possible
Rough roads are many in Uganda but always avoid them wherever possible because dirt and gravel can waste up to 30% of fuel mileage. Each time the car wheels jump up and down, expect forward motion energy to be removed from the vehicle. Therefore this is referred as “washboard” driving, which is not just uncomfortable but also slows down the car from the transfer of energy.
Other important tips for fuel efficiency on your road trip in Uganda include regularly checking tire pressure, changing the air filter according to the outlines number of times on owners’ manual, lightening your load (avoid overpacking), not resting left foot on the brake pedal while driving, inspecting any suspension and chassis parts for misalignment, choosing the right octane gas for your vehicle, combining errands into one trip instead of several short trips, using the recommended grade of motor oil and many others.
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