Travel

Best 5 Spots on the Wild and Tranquil Ugandan waters

It is a honeymoon? Is it love you want to celebrate? What better way to express this than by taking a boat cruise? Uganda’s lakes and rivers are more than just waters, they come with sceneries to die for. Tranquility takes center, the breeze is soothing, the beauty simply out of this world and the experience sticks to mind. But the wild is magical too.

1. A dreamy Lake Albert awaits

When the boat docks, we guarantee you will be smiling. For emphasis, we shall repeat: By the end of this two-hour trip, the memories you would have collected will leave you smiling. It starts with encountering of plenty wildlife whilst still ashore; reptiles, birds, you name them, exciting! But that you will soon learn is just a teaser; this entire experience is capped with thought-inducing sunsets and pure relief. A tangle with nature, a sun so soothing you wander into the what-ifs of life. You live and let live whilst on the waters of Lake Albert.

It remains one of the most informative sightseeing tours in Western Uganda. Offering a relaxing way to learn about puzzling tectonic earth movements that led to the formation of the Albertine rift valley. It takes place aboard a wooden boat powered by twin-turbo engines. What a gentle experience this boat, managed by Uganda Wildlife Authority, provides. Arguably the most stable boats on Ugandan waters that boast of comfort so fulfilling it allows for dreams.

The adventure is fun and exciting, but also informative. The guides on site know so much about the area. You will be impressed by how they value the environment, and the special role that each animal in Semuliki National Park has in sustaining its eco-system.

The cruise unfolds at a gentle pace, allowing you to see all types of birds that prey on fish possible. The biggest highlight is spotting Uganda’s most sought-after species, the shoebill. Imagine encountering a pre-historic bird that has defied odds and outlived extinction since the time dinosaurs still walked the earth.

The longevity of the tour is perfect. It is long enough to allow you to see all the animals on your bucket list but also short enough not to make you bored.

Cost: The tour costs roughly 50,000 UGX and can be booked through the luxury lodges in the park. One such lodge is Ntoroko Game Lodge.

It continues tomorrow… who wants to go Sports Fishing on Lake Victoria

    2.   Canoe cruise on Lake Mulehe, so picturesque!

It captures your heart with intriguing sights and sounds of Lake Mulehe. Found in Kisoro District(South-Western Uganda), it is a scenic crater lake that has a healing effect on the mind, body, and soul.

You will have a calm paddle aboard a dug-out canoe that is small and made for an intimate connection. Be prepared to get award-winning pictures of green hilly landscapes with plantations of Irish potatoes on their faces.  The bonus is a mix of dormant and active volcanoes that perfected the beauty of the Virunga region with their sky-hugging summits. In their shadows are well-organized villages of locals, most of whom hail from the Bafumbira tribe.

As the sun rises gloriously, it creates clear blue skies which are beautifully reflected in this lake. This creates a powerful and energizing environment for adventure and re-discovery of one another.

As you ride on, you will encounter lots of birds with soothing music for your soul, like the malachite kingfisher. But that’s half the story. The trip is just what you need to cool off and reflect on how far your relationship has come. Why? As opposed to being powered by a motorized engine which would disturb your peace, the canoe is steered by paddles.

The Kayaking option is equally so much fun, a great physical workout too! There is enough paddling to do. Throughout, you will be in the company of an extremely enthusiastic guide who is knowledgeable about the area.

If you love swimming, you can take advantage of the lake’s bilharzia free state and jump in for a refreshing dip. The fish are quite curious and swim right up to you- so cute! You’ll have absolute peace of mind considering lake Mulehe doesn’t have any hippo or crocodile.

Cost: The adventure costs roughly 50,000UGX per person and can be booked through the various safari lodges in Kisoro.

3. The wild Murchison Falls National Park boat ride

Take a boat cruise in Murchison falls National Park, we dare you! Not that it is a bad dare, the thing is, this is more of an exploration of the wildlife of this park, and thus more than just a tour. It is no wonder it attracts over 200,000 tourists annually! The cruise takes place on River Nile aboard a big boat with a lower and upper deck. Imagine how electrifying it would be to cruise on the world’s longest river? Yes, a wonder that that started flowing even before Moses freed the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Imagine that!

This beautiful biodiversity hot spot is home to tons of birds, reptiles, aquatic species, and mammals like buffaloes, elephants, Uganda kobs, and giraffes. All these can be easily spotted this a sightseeing boat cruise destined for the mouth of the river. During this two-hour experience, you will ride past small swamps systems with schools of hippos cooling of the heat with a swim.

Should you look keenly into the water, you will see gigantic crocodiles camouflaging with surrounding rocks. Their eyes are glued to the shoreline to stalk prey that has come to quench its thirst. The guide who will be entrusted with looking after you speaks so much about conservation and sustainable tourism. Their love for the park will make you want to stay there forever.

Like a true climax, the best part of this boat ride is watching the majesty of the Murchison Falls unveiling ever so thunderously in your eyes. This, on top of experiencing wildlife in its habitat, is what makes this boat ride one die for.

 Cost: In short, the tour is good value for money and thus highly recommendable. Costs between Shs30,000 -120,000 depending on whether you are an East African, Foreign Resident, or Foreign tourist.

 4. Time to go fishing on Lake Victoria

First of all, safety is germane! The entire excursion is a tale of a well-organized and executed affair, complete with attention to safety. Before we delve into it, not that Lake Victoria is one of the very few freshwater bodies in the world that are still lonely save for a lone canoe in a distance. This should allow you to rediscover what you like about each other without feeling like your privacy is compromised.

It helps that the temperature in and around the lake is friendly all year round. Listening to the calm waves gently splashing the side of the boat will heal your mind and soul of whatsoever is troubling it. If sportfishing with Wild Frontiers, your trip will be guided by a two-man team that had done this over 200 times now. They will make sure you are well taken care of from start to finish. Even better, the boat is well suited for deep lake trolling.

At the genesis of this adventure, a briefing about the rules and regulations must be held. This is to ensure that all are versed in the safety and operations of the boat and only then will you get into the nuts and bolts of your mission. To go fishing! The activity is easy as there are not many Dos and Don’ts. The artificial lures are designed in the shape of prey that is a delicacy for giant tilapias and Nile perch.

The ever-so-patient instructors make the activity doable even for a novice. Throughout the excursion, there is no rush to get you back to shore, you will fish until you are were happy to pull in the lines. The crew’s knowledge of the lake is hard to beat. They know where, when, and how to hook the biggest catch. It might take lots of minutes before landing on a good catch, this makes the victory worth a huge celebration like a lottery win. Luckily, there is lots of beer on board. Did I say there was lunch too? Well, you bet there is. The day will end with a brief visit to one of the many islands on the lake whereof the Equator passes. Imagine that!

Costs: An average of $125 with Wild Frontiers, a sports fishing agency based in Entebbe

5. An adrenaline dose from Rafting River Nile

Are you feeling plain old? Did plain stick maybe? If you are just bored of the relationship, then this adventure is exactly what you need. In fact, put it on your bucket list for valentine, you will not regret it!  It entails overriding 8 major rapids of the river that are well spaced over a scenic 24-kilometer stretch. Imagine that!

This pushes you to the limits and enables you re-discover your strength, or just how good you are at maneuvering through challenges. All that initially seemed impossible will fizzle off. And dare we add, this could go a long way in trivializing all the hurdles that seemed unmovable. And oh, this is regardless of whether you chose the half-day or full-day excursion, you will leave with both physical and emotional rewards.

Over 1,000 who don’t know how to swim have successfully and safely rocked the adventure since its inception over 20 years back. This is partly because safety is the main concern of the rafting agencies and standards of their equipment are second to none.

Before the experience, a breakfast to fill you with sufficient energy ahead of your expedition is served. You will then be split into groups of six people each with similar appetites for adrenaline. Each will be led by a coach who has been rafting for over 10 years. He will ensure you are comfortable but most of all confident to rock the day. Shortly after boarding the raft boat at a calm stretch of the river, he will give you a safety briefing—purposed to enlighten you on how to have a trip that is free of regret and fear.

Having rafted countless times before, the safety crew knows the river very well and will keep you safe throughout. You will swiftly come to your rescue just in case you fall out of your boat after it has hit a high wave. The rapids you will counter are on the bigger side but prior to confronting each, the raft will be consulted to determine which line to pass.

This will limit the number of times your boat flips upside down. The beauty of rafting the Nile unlike an ocean or sea is that its water is not salty, it is fresh. As such, neither your eyes nor skin will be damaged. On the contrary, they will look exquisite and renewed in the end due to the healing effect of the mineral-rich water.

A photography crew will be stationed at different strategic parts of the river to get highlights of your excursion. Halfway into your adventure, you will have a lunch stopover at one of the islands surrounded by exhilarating rapids and a rich concentration of beautiful birds

Costs: The average cost for a full day raft is $125

The Great Acholi Chiefdom

The Acholi people are a Luo-Nilotic tribe in northern Uganda. They occupy the current Acholi sub-region according to the geographic division of Uganda.

The sub-region comprises the districts of Agago, Amuru, Gulu, Kitgum, Lamwo, Nwoya, and Pader. Although other Acholis are found in Magwe County in South Sudan, they are often excluded from the political meaning of the term “Acholi land”. In fact, the Acholi from South Sudan refers to themselves as ‘Acoli’ not ‘Acholi’. The Acholi speak a western Nilotic language, classified as Luoor Lwo.

Origin

The Acholi were originally inhabitants of the Bahr-el-Ghazal Region in South Sudan before they migrated and settled in northern and eastern Uganda and others in western Kenya. Legends also assert that the Acholi are a product of intermarriages between the Luo and the Madi of West Nile.

Although researchers say the word ‘Acholi’ is a term that became adopted for convenience over the years, there are many theories that show how the famous name came into existence.One of the theories states that prior to colonialism, the Acholi referred to themselves as ‘An-loco-li’, which means “I am a human being”, or “black”.

An-loco-li did not have any ethnic definition of geographical boundaries initially. Another theory says during the second half of the 19th Century, Arabic-speaking traders from the north referred to Acholi people as ‘school, a term which was later transformed into ‘Acholi’.

Forming the chiefdom

In the late 17th Century, a new socio-political order developed among the Luo who had settled in northern Uganda, mainly characterized by the formation of chiefdoms headed by chiefs known as Rwodi or Rwoti in Luo. By the mid-19th Century, about 60 small chiefdoms existed in eastern Acholi land all ruled by Rwodis or chiefs.

Although many chiefs were ruling smaller clans within the Acholi sub-region, it was not until the British colonial era when Rwot Awich of the Payira clan became the Acholi Paramount Chief in the 1900s.Payira clan is one of the biggest clans in the Acholi sub-region.

It is the clan from which the paramount chief is chosen from the patrilineal family line. The Rwot/chief was a central figure and he had executive, judicial and legislative powers. In addition, he was the link between the living and the dead. It was his duty to offer sacrifices to ancestors on behalf of his subjects. The chiefdom currently has 57 sub-clans which are all headed by Rwodis.

Choosing the chiefs

Traditionally, chiefs were chosen from one clan, and each chiefdom had several villages made up of different patrilineal clans.Since 1900, more than 20 Paramount Chiefs have ruled the Acholi Chiefdom most notably RwotAwich (deceased), Rwot Ali Aliker (deceased), Rwot Yona Odida(deceased) and Rwot Justine Acana I (deceased),

among others. The current Acholi Paramount Chief is Rwot David Onen Acana II who ascended the throne after the death of his father Rwot AcanaI in2005. He is the 25thparamount chief and currently, he over sees 54 smaller chiefdoms locally known as ‘ker’. Members of the royal lineage ‘kaka pa rwot’ are known as the ‘people of the court’ or ‘jokal’ or lobito or the‘people of power’.

Batandrateating

The Acholi are unique in certain practices, foods and rituals. Notable among them is bat and rat eating. This is done most especially among the Lamogi people in Amuru District. Strange as it may seem, the Lamogi have enjoyed the delicacies since time immemorial.

They trap the bats from caves at the famous Guru-Guru hills using thorny tree branches.Once trapped, the bats are cooked in various forms to suit one’s taste. Some are skewed and roasted and cooked in a mixture of groundnut paste and served with Kwon Kal (millet bread) or boiled cassava. Other people trap the bats for sale. A bat in a market in Lamogiis sold at Shs1,000. As for the rats, they are hunted in the bushes near homestead sand are also prepared in various ways.

Traditional rituals
Matooput is one of the important rituals in the chiefdom. It is performed in case somebody has been murdered. The ceremony involves two clans (the deceased’s and the murderers) bringing together the perpetrator and the victim in a quest for restoring social harmony. Matooput begins by separating the affected clans, mediation to establish the ‘truth’, and payment of compensation according to by-laws.The final ritual, ‘drinking the bitter root’ is a day-long ceremony involving symbolic acts all designed to reunite the warring clans.

Marriage
The Acholi attach so much significance to the marriage institution (nyom) that failure to marry is considered a curse (or an abnormality). Childlessness is counted as one of the most serious misfortunes to befall a couple, with women typically taking all the blame. In such cases, the marriage could be dissolved or the husband allowed to take another wife, because to Acholi, children are the ultimate goal of any marriage. In fact, according to legends, an Acholi couple could not set up a home until their first child was born.

Traditional dances
The Acholi have several dances including the royal and courtship dances. Bwola dance was only considered a royal dance and would only be performed before the royal family or the chiefs. Laraka-raka dance is for courtship and it is the youth who used to take part in it mostly as a way to identify potential suitors. Other traditional dances include Otole, Dingi Dingi, and Ajere. The Acholi also used to tell African folktales to the children and some of the stories are still being told to date children, they included stories of Apwoyo (hare) and Obibi (the ogre).

Symbolic Animal
The Acholi uniqueness is also significant in some animals they hold dear. Elephants (Lyecor Lyeci in plural) are the most respected and symbolic animals. They are considered wise, brave, and energetic animals. Acholi considers themselves tall, brave, and energetic people. In fact, the Gulu District local government has adopted the elephants as its symbols on all administrative logos as well as a section of other institutions in the sub-region.

Tourism
Acholi chiefdom is also gifted by nature. It has a number of natural and historic sites that have become great tourist destinations. Notable among them are the Lamogi hills, the hills where the Lamogi clan people staged a partial resistance to the British Colonial rule in 1911. They are found in Amora Village, Lamogi Sub-county in Amuru District.

Another tourist site Acholi chiefdom can boast about is Fort Patiko in Gulu District. Located about 32 kilometers north of Gulu Town, the fort is enclosed by a 16 feet wide and 15 feet deep trench dug by slaves on the orders of the Arabs to avoid the escape of the abductees to be traded as slaves.

However, when Sir Samuel Baker was commissioned in 1863 by the Queen of England to fight slavery in Uganda, they camped at Fort Patiko and abolished slave trade in the region.The place still possesses the house built with stones by Sir Samuel Baker sitting on top of the Patiko hills

8 Popular Cars to Hire in Uganda

Car rentals in Uganda are currently one of the most sought after travel services by travelers. Usually, we get puzzled up while planning our safaris and at the end, we fail to fulfill our dreams. Do you need to rent a car for a safari in Uganda? Well, it is a high time you achieved your dreams in Africa. There are many affordable, reliable and authorized car rental services in Uganda that will help you get that comfortable car for your safari needs. Check out for a range of car hire agencies in Uganda and the rest of things will be for you to make the best choice that suits your travel needs. Our services range from 4 by 4 cars, Saloon cars up to Mini bus as well as Coaster Vans. Acquiring one for your safari in Uganda will reward you with a life time experiences. All our car rentals are well suited to transverse through Uganda’s bumpy roads. Basically, you only need to contact us and hire a car of your choice that will match with travel itinerary and budget. We mind about the global economic situation today that is why our prices may also include the insurance and any local taxes on unlimited mileage. Simply hit on our online reservation box and within 2 minutes time you will be sorted.

Below is a list of comfortable and famous cars that you can rent to help you enjoy the most exciting travel experiences in life.

Toyota Prado:

Preferably, this is one of the most famous 4 by 4 cars that you can rent for a safari in Uganda. Travelers who intend to take self drive safaris in Uganda’s remotest national parks or any corner in Uganda, a Toyota Prado is undoubtedly the best option for you to achieve your dreams. Toyota Prado car comes in the following types; the Prado TX, UG and 3 Liter Turbo. It accommodates about 5 persons and this includes the driver as well. You can hire a Toyota Prado in Uganda at a relatively cheaper cost. It is also spacious enough to accommodate travelers’ property and camping gear. It is preferably the best to get you through Uganda’s dusty roads that you will encounter while you are heading to enjoy Uganda’s remarkable wildlife in national parks like Kidepo Valley National Park, Murchison Falls National Park and many others. Most interestingly, some of these incredible cars have a pop up roof which will get you a better glimpse of Uganda’s most spectacular wildlife and definitely you will have the best photo taking position.

Toyota RAV4:

This is another perfect car to get you the best self drive tours, city safaris, picnic holidays and events in Uganda. They come in both manual and automatic transmission with about 3 or 5 doors. The engine is 1990cc with tremendous atmospheres despite the weather conditions. It is less demanding in terms of maintenance and fueling. It is rear seats can also be folded down and you will have space to put many things. This type of car is only convenient for 2 travelers despite the fact that it’s licensed to transport about 5 people. It is can be accessed at a relatively affordable prices.

Super custom:

This may also include Hiace Van or Mini-bus; it is mostly convenient for bigger groups and especially for family safaris in Uganda and beyond. They carry approximately fourteen people but the space for your property is based on the number people traveling and length of a safari. For long tours, travelers will need much luggage to carry unlike the short tours. They are also found in automatic and manual transmissions and they have a sun roof.

Safari Land Cruiser:

This is also a 4 by 4 type that is popularly used by tourists who are interested in guided safaris and camping experiences in Uganda. This car carries up to eight tourists and it has a sun roof to allow you have wide range of glance at Uganda wildlife while on game drive.

Toyota Corona:

This is of small size and best suited for 2 to 5 travelers. It is more convenient for self drive safaris, city safaris, conference meetings and events.

Coaster Bus:

This car can be hired for people who travel in larger numbers of about 35 and it is convenient for school students, conference travelers, business travelers and bigger families. You can also hire 25 seater and 29 seater mini-buses or coasters.

Nissan Patrol:

This is another bigger 4 wheel drive car which well suited for safaris and tough roads and this is best for Uganda roads. It carries about 3 to 5 travelers and it has enough space to accommodate your property.

Salon car:

For budget travelers, getting a salon car can be the best option for you to take a safari in Uganda.

In conclusion, there are very many car rentals in Uganda that offer you opportunity to make the best choice for your safari. For new travelers, they can hire a car together with a qualified driver in case they are not familiar with driving techniques on Uganda roads or any country in Africa. Enjoy your safari with us and have a memorable experience in life.

Mistakes to Avoid When Booking a Gorilla Safari in Uganda

Gorilla trekking is one of the highly demanded tourist activities in Uganda and the world at large. Many people yearn to go on a gorilla safari because it is regarded as a lifetime event however, there are common mistakes people do when booking a gorilla safari in Uganda. In this article, we are giving some of them below:

• Perceiving false information from the internet – there is much false information circulating on social media and other forums on the internet. If you land on such false information, you will be misled or conned thus failing to make it.
• Book wrong dates – because of much false information on the internet, you can be misleading and end up booking wrong dates for gorilla permits, accommodation, visas or flights, and so on.
• Booking accommodation in the wrong location from where you planned to trek gorillas from. If you are to trek in Buhoma and you book accommodation in Rushaga, that is wrong. Since gorilla trekking begins early in the morning at 7:30 am, it’s wise to book your lodges, hotel near to the tracking center.
• Flying into the wrong Airport – If you are to trek gorillas in Uganda, do not fly into the airport far away from Uganda. For that case, you can from to Kigali Airport or any airport in Kenya or Tanzania – then drive to Uganda but very important to fly to Entebbe Airport.
• Organizing wrong gorilla trekking gear – If you are to trek Gorillas seek proper guidance from experts/ local tour operator on the ground to list for you proper gorilla trekking gear.
• Booking with the wrong tour operator- it’s malicious to book your lifetime safari with an inexperienced or incompetent tour agency. Try to look for reputable tour operators whom many past travelers recommend – visit the Trip Advisor forum to get one.
• Selecting a wrong gorilla trekking sector – for all along, you wanted to trek in the Buhoma sector but due to wrong guidance, you may end up being taken to the Ruhija sector instead.
• Selecting unsuitable quotation – Choose a quotation that suits your budget, schedule, and interest. Due to poor guidance, you may end up choosing luxury yet your budget suits the budget option. You are therefore cautioned to be keen when choosing a quotation.
• Compacting your gorilla safari with many activities may be exhausting. Make your safari flexible to get the time of relaxing and interrupting at leisure.
• Booking in the wrong season – too much rainy season is not recommended for gorilla trekking. Rain season makes gorilla trekking trails slipper and gorillas tend to be dormant because of coldness. The dry season is the best time for gorilla trekking though the activity is done all year round.
• Not willing to change – Some clients are too rigid and not willing to adjust in case a new change arises.  For the trip to be successful, you need to accept changes for the good of the tour operator and you – the traveler.

In conclusion, the above mistakes should be avoided by making serious research before making the final decision.

Visit the Source of the Nile in Uganda

Uganda, the No.1 tourist destination in the world, boasts of the source of longest river in the world, River Nile. The source of the Nile is in lake Victoria. A trip to the source of the Nile should be on everyone’s to do list or may I say ‘Travel Destinations before You Die’. The source of the Nile in Jinja Town offers relaxation, rejuvenation, satisfaction, content and takes you to another place altogether; Jinja town is an adventure-lovers paradise, with several rafting and adventure companies offering an array of activities from quad-biking through to horse-riding to kayaking.

The River Nile, stretching across half of Africa, flows northwards from the tropical mountains and forests of the Equator to the temperate Mediterranean Sea. The most amazing fact about River Nile is that it runs through ten countries of Sudan, South Sudan, Burundi, Rwanda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Kenya, Ethiopia, Egypt and Uganda. The Nile ends in a large delta that empties into the Mediterranean Sea.

There is something magical about the Nile; it flows lazily and with elegance and pride, seeming aware of the awe in which it is held by the world. For centuries the legend that is the Nile’s has fascinated many while leaving others mystified. Nile is a famous Greek word simply meaning valley.

A tour to the Nile will take you through another life of adventure. There is a golf course unwinding along the banks and the source of the Nile provides a pretty focal point to the flow of water from Lake Victoria’s only outlet. A boat ride out to Samuka Island is another trip of itself, not counting the beautiful fauna you will see along.

Booking a safari downstream on the Nile River brings you to Adrift Nile High Camp with various activities including Bungee jump. A few kilometers further, is Bujagali Falls, the adventurer’s capital with grade-five white water rafting, kayaking, river boarding and mountain-biking. These activities offer a unique way to explore the riverbanks, passing though farms, forests and villages beside the Nile.

Up along the Nile’s course is Lake Kyoga; it also feeds the river with fresh water. The course then leads you to the great Murchison Falls, where roars of millions of litres of water dropping form a lullaby. Activities such as spot fishing, game drives and scenic viewing can make your safari to Murchison Falls an exhilarating experience. 
The Murchison Falls Park which is named after the Murchison falls provides boat trips to the foot of the falls that enable you to look at hippos, crocodiles and magnificent bird life. Similar to gorilla safaris, the park at the falls organizes nature walks to the top of the falls for trekking chimpanzees.

From this point, River Nile flows though Lake Albert to the northern part of Uganda, to Sudan and finally I Egypt were it pours its mass into the Mediterranean Sea.

On the White Nile, the roar of the rapids drifting upstream with the gentle breeze and wooden canoes laden with excited locals congregate in the calm waters anxious to see the rafts in action is a common sight. Rafts explode through huge walls of whitewater and adrift through warm green pools in the equatorial sunshine; whitewater rafting at its very best.

Adrift Uganda is the most preferred agent when it comes to water rafting and any other activities on the Nile. Adrift has developed quite a following due to their consistency and safety measures with internationally qualified guides who are carefully chosen based on their skill, experience and their ability to address the need and expectations of each individual client. Adrift has the most experienced team on the continent (with over 100 years combined experience) and all guides are comprehensively trained in CPR, wilderness first aid and swift water rescue.

Flanked today by the city of Jinja, the waterfall described by Speke now lies submerged beneath the Owen Falls Dam, Uganda’s main source of hydroelectric power. Still, a visit to the source of the Nile remains a moving and wondrous experience, no less so to those who have seen the same river as it flows past the ancient Egyptian temples of Luxor some 6,000 km downstream.

The source of the Nile, alluded to hazily in the ancient writings of Ptolemy, stood as one of the great geographical mysteries of the Victorian Age.

Closer to home, the Nile downriver from Jinja offers some superb white water rafting and game fishing. Its crowning glory, however, is Murchison Falls, where the world’s longest river funnels through a narrow fissure in the Rift Escarpment to erupt out of the other side in a crashing 43 metres plume of white water. The river below Murchison Falls is no less spectacular in its own way, with its profuse birdlife, thousands of hippos, and outsized, gape-mouthed crocodiles.

The Nile has is said to be the best rafting, kayaking and river boarding location in the world that gives an unique white water adventure.

The Nile can be viewed easily from the terrace at most Lodges that are cleverly placed along its banks.

For all who have been lucky to visit the source of the Nile, there is a definite mystique attached to the river, something exciting and mysterious. Knowing that the water flowing past your feet will leave Lake Victoria on its long, long journey through many countries on its northern journey to the sea is enough to get you thinking and wondering.

You can choose to take a one day trip and return to Kampala because transport back from and to the city is provided by most companies but if you are one to extend your trip then accommodation will not be a problem, in fact you will be spoilt for choice because there are several places to stay when in Jinja for all budgets from medium to five star. You can stay at Chobe Safari Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge, Explorers River Camp, Wildwaters Lodge and lots more.

For more information on how to spend your ultimate Uganda holiday, Safaris Uganda, a local tour operator offering a wide range of tours and safaris within the country!

Booking a Vintage Car Hire for Wedding

Do you need elegant and graceful wedding? If yes, then hiring a vintage a must to book. When you think of wedding, you have to think about lasting memories and that is why it is such a special day for you and your dear one.

This day covers a number of incredible elements and colors with unique theme as well as more modern styles and trends thus making your day a magical one. During this day, each moment counts a lot especially when it comes to creating your wedding vision and so is choosing transportation means. If you have always wished to have something unique and special for your day then think about the Vintage car hire.

One may wonder what has kept these car models on market especially in such special occasions like wedding but it is just the romance and charm they make up which you may not easily find anywhere else except with vintage bridal car. To help you get that best rental car in Uganda, below are some tips

Reviews and reputation

Yes, there are many car hire companies with bridal cars but most importantly, how reputable are they? Not to end up in disappointments, the best is for you to deal with a reputable and reliable car rental company that have good vintage cars and that said, we are a few reliable car hire agencies you need to deal with and you will have your dream achieved. As well, you need to cross check online reviews and what others have said about it and its offers/services.

Make booking early

They say an early bird catches the worm and indeed it is true. Once you have made up your mind on which class of car to use perhaps vintage then you need to do the book side of it and preferably, do it at least 1 year earlier or your wedding date. What is important is finding what you desire readily available for your day other than rushing on last minute when you are caught up with time. Note that vintage cars are not freewheeling off the production line any longer and each year, they get taken out of service and this means once you find one, just know another person is also aiming at it. Meaning, you have to reserve it so long as it fits within your needs.

Car condition

Do not be like others, always cross check the car before taking any action. You can look at the mechanical conditions, body prior signing an agreement. Also, check if it is better air condition, lights, windows, doors and if its interior and exterior is well maintained.

License and insurance

Always consider booking a car with a car rental company that has insurance otherwise booking with one that doesn’t have, means you will be liable in case of accident. Not to be in such cases, make sure that you deal with a trustworthy, insured and licensed company. You can even go ahead to ask for a copy of the license or insurance to cross check.

Check the cost of vintage car

Each car hire company sets a price to its car hire and so are vintage car rentals. When booking, make sure that you ask if there hidden fees so as not to be left in surprises. Inquire there are also other offers that come along the set price.

Take note of decoration

Interestingly, vintage cars do come in different colors and can match with your wedding needs. Therefore, you need to make a choice on that which matches your wedding theme.

Avoid double reservation

When booking, make sure that you do not do it twice as you are only making reservation for that particular day. Why don’t you need to double book? Double booking may come with additional charge which you never planned for.

Check through the replacement policy

Normally, some bridal car hire dealers do have policy where they can replace a car you chose with another in case of break down. In case of vintage, higher chances are that you will need the replacement service than with a modern vehicle.

Confirm parking arrangements

Cross check the parking arrangements with the venues to ensure that there is another ideal place for your wedding car to wait. Vintage cars in most cases come in larger sizes compared to the latest models and can be challenging for one to maneuver. This means you need adequate space for your driver to be in position to park.

Top Reasons Why You Should Visit Uganda

Uganda is one of the most popular countries in the whole of East Africa and it is known as the preserver of the unique culture of the local people, having numerous traditional leaders. The country brings together over 60 tribes in together under one umbrella. It is one of the most visited countries in East Africa by tourists.

Well, there are many solid reasons to as to why one could come to visit Uganda and take a Uganda Safari through its amazing tourist attractions. Uganda is a living example of the images of the opulent days of its ancient rulers. The Uganda museums is a must visit destination for history lovers. There are many places to visit in Uganda that reminds of the glorious past like Kasubi tombs, Bulange Palace, Burial grounds of Toro kingdom, heritage trails of Buganda kingdom.

The mouth-watering local dishes prepared from different tribes that can be found at different restaurants that a spread throughout the whole country: dishes from the centre, western, eastern and northern region. These some of these dishes came with the famous, rich and aromatic nature that comes due to the liberal use of exotic spices, ghee and fresh fruits, flavored rice, meat, vegetables, milk.

Rich culture: The Pearl is known for its rich history and culture with a rich and varied heritage in arts, crafts and dance that was formed during the rule of our ancestors. One who travels to Uganda must visit the Uganda Museum to witness the cultural side of Ugandans. It is one of the biggest one-man collections of antiques from all the tribes found in Uganda.

Paradise for African shopping lovers: The pearl is surely the best place to go for shopping African craft. People from safaris shop for, antiques, jewelry items, beautiful dresses.  Due to a pleasant Uganda weather, there will be no problem for tourists to travel around looking for souvenirs to take back home to their relatives.

Uganda’s most known  attractions include; the national parks with wildlife and primates, lake Victoria, river nile, the tropical rain forests, the ever green vegetation and many more all you have to do is to book a safari to the Pearl of Africa.

Go Gorilla Trekking

The main focus of most visitors to Uganda is gorilla tracking. The country is blessed with two destinations where gorilla tracking is done; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

The most popular adventure activity in the Bwindi Forest is gorilla tracking, although the area is also famous for other wildlife. You can visit the park at any time of the year, though the rainy season between April-May and September-November makes conditions for gorilla tracking a lot more challenging.

Recommended Honeymoon Destinations in Uganda

In East Africa, Uganda is one of the magical tourism destinations and a highlight of many trips to Africa. Its strategic location, weather, green vegetation has led to fascinating history that dates back to being called the ‘Pearl of Africa’ though some prefer calling it the country Gifted by nature. Besides its also known as the country with meaningful islands Bunyonyi (the Switzerland of Africa) & Ssese, the land of lakes with many beaches, and water sport activities like boat cruise, Sunset rides making every guest comfortable and relaxed throughout their stay. Your honeymoon in Uganda lays at your feet a gorgeous mélange of aromatic adventures in all the country’s national park not forgetting the Gorilla tracking and Chimpanzee/Primate Treks that are memorable in a life time, spectacular scenery, breath taking views and vibrant wildlife fields.

The country’s city night life is another added advantage where you enjoy candle light dinners in well eco-friendly setting hotels, restaurants and bars. Celebrating your marriage and new life together begs for a stunning, original and a wonderfully memorable destination. Uganda meets and exceeds any expectation for the very best escape in a naturally conserved national park & a sun soaked island of romantic drama and excitement. The African Touch of culture and local people influence makes the country have the most wonderful culture in the world easy to adapt.

Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

The world known Bwindi Forest national park is the finest adventure site in the pearl of Africa Uganda a place to consider when looking at rare wildlife safari adventures. Gorilla tracking in the forest is wonderful experience you’ll always remember and even have stories to tell your little ones. Thousand book this adventure year round but it has remained exceptionally well preserved and gives you the chance to view and take photos of the gentle giant apes the Gorillas in the wild. The Gorilla expeditions make Uganda more unique in nature, beautiful and attractive.

The Might Water falls in Murchison Park

Spicy up your stays by taking a boat cruise in Murchison falls National Park and also hike to the top of the falls. This is a lovely activity which everyone would at least love to do while in Uganda. The park can be visited year round and you will enjoy wildlife (The Big five), a sound of the falls, cool weather is a must and a Rhino sanctuary is a complement for the trip. However Uganda is a home to several attractions and each is unique in its way though four National parks are most visited Bwindi forest, Queen Elizabeth, Murchison falls and Kibale forest. But The Islands are a must visit to many guests heading to the country side.

Locally Made Crafts & Gifts in Africa

Nothing is as rewarding as picking up a locally produced, hand-made gift to remember your Africa honeymoon safari in one of Uganda’s best Gift Quality shops with main locations at the Equator in Kayabwe, Daisy Arcade on Buganda Road in the city centre and even in the craft shops just outside the park attractions. Sometimes you can even make a request for a special gift with deliveries in just a day’s time. You’ll find the Handicraft Centers very excellent full of quality craft, pottery, woven baskets, sound instruments and much more. Make it appoint to visit if time permits.

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.