BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST NATIONAL PARK GORILLA HABITUATION EXPERIENCE – UGANDA SAFARI NEWS

This is an ultimate adventure Uganda safari experience and a chance to participate in a 4 hours gorilla habituation experience which takes place in Rushaga region in Bwindi impenetrable forest national park.
With over 800 mountain gorillas still living in the jungles of Africa, Bwindi impenetrable forest national park comprises of biggest population of mountain gorilla species with 12 habituated gorilla groups and the recently introduced mountain gorilla habituation experience which can only be done in Uganda in Rushaga section that was recently opened by the Uganda wildlife authority. Today Rushaga has two groups where visitors on their gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda can carry on gorilla habituation process that is the Bushaho group and Bikingi group
Gorilla habituation is a taming process of the wild mountain gorillas so that they get used to human presence and also involves studying the behaviors of the gorillas by researchers who regularly go to see them to analyze the best way they relate and communicate with the other mountain gorillas. In the long-run the researchers learn how to talk to the gorillas, give names, interact and be at ease with them.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Gorilla habituation in Uganda are two different unique adventure safari activities worth going for. Gorilla habituation lasts 4 hours as visitors are involved in the mountain gorilla training and teaching process whereas gorilla trekking ties visitors to encounter the already habituated mountain gorilla groups that are already familiar with human presence.
Unlike gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda where the number of people is limited to 8 people per trekking group, Gorilla habituation only allows 4 people per day for 4 hours with the mountain gorillas. The Uganda gorilla tracking safari permit for gorilla habituation goes for $1500 per visitor going for 4 hours while gorilla trekking goes for $600 per person for one hour.
Booking your Uganda gorilla habituation safari permit can be done through booking directly with the Uganda Wildlife Authority Offices with a tour operator. Gorilla habituation permits are always available all year round but if you are considering going for this activity, the best plan is to book in advance because of the limited number to 4 people who go for the activity per day

TREKKING MOUNTAIN GORILLAS: A SPECIAL EXPERIENCE FOR THE CHOSEN FEW – UGANDA SAFARI NEWS

Man’s closest relatives still reign deep in the jungles of Central Africa and East Africa.  With over 800 mountain gorillas left globally, these species are extremely vulnerable.
For the past years, mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda, Congo and Rwanda has been a highly sought after African travel experience. With the increase in demand for gorilla trekking safaris, the governments of most Central and East African countries imposed a gorilla tracking permit system.  Currently, the cost of a gorilla permit ranges between $200 and $750 per person depending on season and country you are in. But what is the secret behind these expensive permits and do travelers have any guarantee on what the money is being used for?
Uganda, Rwanda and the Congo are not exactly the most popular tourist destinations globally but without the mountain gorillas, tourists would have taken a second look especially in the regions civil unrest. The mountain gorillas live in two population groups that is the Bwindi Forest (Uganda) and the Virunga volcanic circuit, covering national parks within Rwanda, Congo and Uganda.  The mountain gorillas rely on the African jungles to survival and if taken away, they are unlikely to survive.  An adult mountain gorilla is huge in that a male one can reach an average height of 1.9 meters with an arm span of 2.3 meters.  With such huge creatures moving around, it is no wonder that local communities have reverted from hunting the mountain gorillas to even keep a safe distance between man and this beast.  In this sense, gorilla trekking has provided a valuable reason to protect these creatures.
With the high gorilla permit fees, it is inevitable that people would want to know where their money is going.  It is highly estimated that about half of Africa’s mountain gorilla populations are found in national parks and the rest forage outside of the parks with little protection and often in conflict with local people. The gorilla permits are used for the management of the national parks and this means some funding is used for anti-poaching management and employment.   There is also limitation to the number of Uganda gorilla trekking visitors that are allowed to visit the gorillas on a daily basis. There is no doubt that Uganda safari tourists have been paying the way for the endangered mountain gorilla and hopefully this situation will continue in the future.
Getting close to man’s relative as a Uganda gorilla trekking experience is not easily forgotten because the friendly nature of mountain gorillas gives tourists all the reasons to trek through the overgrown forests and see the creatures in their natural environment.
As the popularity of gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda is spreading around the world, some even rating it as the best travel experience ever, there are warnings that should never be ignored.
Scientists today are increasingly concerned about mountain gorillas suffering from the common human illnesses. Gorillas being genetically so close to human beings; they can easily catch common infections from the people visiting them.  It is therefore imperative that Uganda gorilla safari trekkers adhere to the advice and regulations from their guide that is no trekking if you are ill and even no getting closer to the gorillas more than 7 meters.
Mountain Gorilla trekking regulations may increase in the nearby future and price probably increase too and as such if you are fortunate enough to find your way to a meeting with these extraordinary creatures, consider yourself one of an incredibly chosen few!
By Sanyu Chris

THE EFFORTS TO CONSERVE PANGOLINS IN UGANDA – UGANDA SAFARI NEWS

The United Nations Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) took a radical step and banned all the commercial trade arrangements that include Pangolins along with African Grey parrots which are among the unique Uganda Safari products.
The Pangolins also locally known as Olugave in Luganda dialect are known to thrive more in the wild other than captivity and listed as Vulnerable on the red list of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Unfortunately, it seems the precious trade world over is putting them at the risk of extinction. In Uganda, a range of people have been arrested attempting to smuggle Pangolins across borders.  In April 2016, four (4) traffickers were arrested in the District of Kitgum in possession of Pangolins while a couple had earlier been arrested in Nwoya District in possession of 25Kg of Pangolin Scales. These two areas are close to the Uganda tour destination of Murchison Falls National Park.
According to the Julius Odeke-Onyango – the Head of media relations at Natural Resource Conservation Network (NRCN), the Pangolin scales are on high demand on the World Black Market and a Kilogram can go up to $3000 which is about 10 million Uganda Shillings. Northern Uganda features a suitable breeding ground for Pangolins and due to high poverty levels in the region, the people are easy to fall prey of such precious trade deals albeit illegal.
However, the locals also many times benefit less from these pangolin scales as they give them away to middle men at a relatively lower price of about $50 and then the middle men reap big if they are successful with smuggling. The common market destination for these Pangolin Scales is Asia and in particular Vietnam and China where an estimate of 10,000 Pangolins are trafficked illegally.
At the point of attack, the Pangolin would coil itself to the shape of a ball in protection of its underside that is soft which gives the traffickers an opportunity to throw it to the boiling water saucepans to extract scales. These scales are utilised for medicine and are believed to act as aphrodisiacs, heal cancer, rheumatism and relieve asthma. The meat of Pangolin is also a delicacy and due to their drastic decline in Asia, East Africa is considered a fresh hunting ground – something that is truly threatening these species and their long term exploration by travelers on safaris to Uganda East Africa.
 In a bid to save the Pangolins, the CITES has extended protection by uplifting them to Appendix 1 which means that their trade is banned and can only be transported if it is for purposes other than commercial. In Uganda, the Uganda Wildlife Authority has undertaken various initiatives including; extensive sensitization that has prompted CITES to move the Pangolins to Appendix 1, recruiting its own prosecutors that specialize in wildlife crimes, advocating for increased fines in relation to the items trafficked and eventually supporting the local communities surrounding the protected areas to build self sustaining projects and refrain from poaching. If these measures are enforced, the future of pangolins seems bright and the Safaris in Uganda Africa.

SHORT GORILLA SAFARIS IN UGANDA – UGANDA GORILLA SAFARI NEWS

With a minimum of 400 Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park alone, the Gorilla Safaris and tours in Uganda are by no means ordinary. Besides Bwindi, the country features another gorilla destination – Mgahinga Gorilla National Park which is part of the Virunga Massif straddling across Uganda Rwanda and Congo with 480 Mountain Gorillas.
The Short Gorilla Safaris in Uganda are unique packages designed with consideration to the limited travel time and affordability. It can be noted that due to increasing work, school and family demands, the time available for the youth and other middle aged groups is relatively low compared to the seniors that are able to take on long vacations. Besides the time factor, the finances for taking long trips are always not readily available especially among student and volunteer groups but can be comfortable to gather a little they have and spend a day with the Gorillas in the mist.
The Short Uganda gorilla trekking safari tours range from 1 day to 5 Days depending on the starting and end point.  1 day gorilla safari to Bwindi is always arranged from Kabale, Lake Bunyonyi, Kisoro and Kihihi and would preferably consider tracking in the nearest gorilla trekking region. 2 Days Gorilla Safari in Uganda can be conducted with pick up and drop off in Kigali which is a relatively shorter distance to either Bwindi or Mgahinga compared to Kampala. However, the 2 Days Gorilla Trip can also commence from Kampala and end in Kigali.
The most popular short Uganda gorilla tour is 3 Days which commences and ends in Kampala / Entebbe and offers great encounters including a stop at Uganda Equator crossing Kayabwe to explore the geographical divide between the southern and northern hemisphere, traditional lunch stop at the famous Igongo Cultural Center where you can as well tour the largest private cultural museum in Uganda, Mountain Gorilla Trekking in any of your preferred regions of Bwindi or even Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and eventually  a thrilling relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi dubbed the lake of a thousand Islands with a local dugout canoe or boat ride experience.
The travelers interested in exploring beyond the Mountain Gorillas can take up 4 or 5 Day Gorilla and Wildlife Safari trips which always extend to Lake Mburo or Queen Elizabeth National Park for Wild game viewing including the tree climbing lion sights in Ishasha sector and the fascinating Kazinga Channel boat cruise. On 5 Days, the Primate enthusiasts can consider Chimpanzee trekking / Habituation in Kibale National Park before proceeding to Bwindi Impenetrable for Mountain Gorilla Trekking.
The guides, the quality of vehicles and lodges (depending on the category selected) are always the best thus capable for generating lasting memories.

EXPLORING RWANDA THE LAND OF A THOUSAND HILLS

The republic of Rwanda is one of the most alluring countries on the African continent. This tiny East African country is one of the few African safari destinations where the endangered mountain gorillas can be spotted in their natural habitat.
An ultimate African memory on a Rwanda safari awaits you at prime safaris and tours limited, with the best wildlife viewing spots, good food, safari accommodation and a tour guide with exceptional experience all with a price that will make you have a smile on your face.
Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Rwanda which is a popular destination for mountain gorilla trekking in Africa. Rwanda, Uganda and Congo are the only countries that protect the remaining few endangered mountain gorillas in the whole world.
Gorilla Trekking is carried out in only 5 gorilla groups within “Parc Nationale des Volcano”. The activity occurs within the bamboo slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes from where the late Dian Fossey studied the behavior and characteristics of the mountain gorilla for over 20 years and with the filmmakers who shot ‘Gorillas in the Mist’ in the same location.
Bird Watching tours in Rwanda boasts of over 690 Bird species, 44 of which are endemic to Rwanda. These include many of the Albertine Rift Endemics and West Africa’s forest specials including the Purple-breasted Sunbird, Rwenzori Turaco, Red-faced Barbet, Rockefeller’s Sunbird, Collared Appalis, and Fraser’s Eagle Owl.
Wildlife safaris in Rwanda also boast a wide variety of gem all over the country. Volcanoes National Park is home to the world’s endangered mountain gorillas. Akagera National Park in the eastern parts of Rwanda is crowded with a lot of wildlife including herds of elephants, buffaloes, Giraffes and zebras, dozens of antelopes which include the Chestnut-coated Impala, oribi, tsessebe, bushbucks, Cape eland among others.
Cultural Tours in Rwanda are developing for those interested in cultural tourism. The kwita-Izina Ceremony where the mountain gorillas are named attracts many people and is one of the best safari events to learn about Africa, Culture, people with their norms and traditions.
We at prime Uganda safaris and tours limited can design a customized tour to suit your requirements or choose an already made tailor made itinerary from our selection of gorilla tours, wildlife safaris; cultural tours and birding safari packages. We can also offer an all-inclusive fly or self-drive holidays from Kigali or Kampala in Uganda.

GORILLA VALLEY LODGE; THE MIDRANGE LODGES OF BWINDI – UGANDA GORILLA SAFARI NEWS

In the lush Afro montane Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – the icon of Uganda Gorilla Safaris, private proprietors have come up with a range of facilities including accommodation to serve the visiting groups and the Gorilla Valley Lodge is one of them.
It actually sounds very exciting to learn that at about one (1) meter, you are already in the home of the critically endangered Mountain Gorillas! This makes the stay at Gorilla Valley Lodge a home sharing moment with these unique species.
Gorilla Valley Lodge is a midrange facility serving the mid market travelers on gorilla safaris and tours in Uganda tracking the region of Rushaga to the South of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.  Rushaga sector is a popular region gifted with seven habituated groups (though two are still undergoing habituation) – making it the only region in Bwindi with the highest number of habituated gorilla groups. These include; Nshongi which was the first to be habituated in the region and the largest group ever been habituated, Kahungye, Busingye, Mishaya, Bweza, Bikingi and Bushaho.
Accommodation here is presented in twelve (12) self contained / en suite rooms each equipped with a private terrace with the views of the forest and solar water heaters. The medium sized rooms feature comfortable beds that can be configured as Single, double and twin.   Unlike many other lodges that offer accommodation in cottages, Gorilla Valley Lodge has rooms.
The lodge enjoys a majestically set restaurant with panoramic views of the forest on one side and the community on the other side. The guests are lost in the spacious restaurant building housing the well stocked bar and featuring a double sided fire place to the comfort of the guests seated in the two restaurant sections. It is indeed a fascinating evening experience chilling in the hills of Bwindi after a long day Mountain Gorilla trek generating ultimate Uganda gorilla Safari memories.
Gorilla Valley Lodge is accessed via Kabale following Kisoro road before branching off to  join the rough section heading to Rushaga. It can also be accessed from Kisoro via Rubuguri if the guests are coming in from Rwanda on Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari. It is close to Rushaga ranger post – the starting point for gorilla trekking.

THE ADVENTURE HIKE TO MOUNT BISOKE – RWANDA SAFARI NEWS

North Western Rwanda seems to be a site for wonders! Besides being the only destination for Gorilla Safaris in Rwanda, the area presents an adventurous volcano hiking experience to Bisoke Mountain.
Bisoke Volcano which is among the eight fascinating Virunga Mountain chain straddling across Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo, presents an exciting adventure day hike ideal for most of the world travelers on Adventure Vacations in Rwanda Uganda.
Rising to 3,711m above sea level, Bisoke Mountain is shared by Rwanda and Congo but the peak is on the Rwandan Side. This scenic Rwanda Safari feature is noted to have last erupted in the year 1957 and features the largest Crater Lake on the massif. The hike to Bisoke involves traversing the dense covered equatorial forest slopes along with alpine meadows before approaching the summit which is always masked in fog other than snow.
The trek is a remarkable journey to the wonders as some have had chances of enjoying the unexpected views of Mountain Gorillas – the members of Great Apes considered critically endangered world over while the Dian Fossey Research station and her tomb thrive in a saddle between Bisoke and Karisimbi Volcanoes.  The fame of Dian Fossey as regards the Mountain Gorilla research and conservation advocacy is a rich heritage that would make the site’s visit worthwhile. The sight of Lake Ngezi (3,000m) which was formed following the 1957 violent eruption is fascinating.
Bisoke Volcano hike is relatively challenging and thus offers an exciting adventure for even the first time hikers. The duration is normally 7 hours round trip but can be less or more depending on the fastness of the hiker. At $75 per person, any traveler on Rwanda Safari Holiday can gather at Kinigi Park Headquarters at 7am before connecting to the trail head and start on the encounter. Sufficient drinking water and lunch box should be carried along.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR GORILLA SAFARI TO MGAHINGA GORILLA NATIONAL PARK

Before taking on your gorilla safari tour in Uganda, we invite you to get briefed more about these amazing creatures with their interesting facts.
Gorilla trekking is  one of the most thrilling activities done by tourists in Mgahinga national park. This park has only one habituated gorilla family known as “Nyakagezi” originally consisting of 9 family members, 2 silver backs, 3 female adults, 2 infants and 2 juveniles.
Gorilla tracking tours in Uganda can at times be strenuous and occasionally cover the whole day as the guide takes you through this amazing world and also giving you information on their ecology and wild behavior. There is a good chance of spotting these gorillas of Mgahinga national park however success is never guaranteed as these creatures are wild animals, never fixed in their daily routine and finding them requires a guide with extra skill, experience as well as luck.
For the travelers on Gorilla Safari in Uganda, before setting off for the actual gorilla trekking activity, the guide will always suggest how long this activity may take. However while moving do not hesitate to ask the guides to slow down their pace in case they are moving so fast or if you need to rest. This guide will not leave you behind.
The daily routine of a mountain gorilla includes foraging early in the morning and have a rest during the late morning and midday. In the late afternoon they forage before they rest at night. The mountain gorillas leave their sleeping nests at 6am in the morning except when it’s too cold, that’s when they stay up their nests.
Gorillas don’t have discrete territories and instead they roam in home ranges. When the sources of food are sparse, the ranges between groups also become larger and when there is abidance of food the distance between home ranges become shorter.
Gorillas get infected with most of the diseases suffered by human beings as well. It is for this reason that Uganda safari visitors to these gorillas are advised to keep a distance. Respiratory diseases suffered more especially pneumonia are the most frequent causes of deaths of most mountain gorillas.
The gorillas basically live on ground and almost 20% of their day time in trees. They climb trees either to play or harvest fruits and rarely jump from branch to branch due to their weight.
Gorillas sleep in nests which they build on ground and in trees and this depend on the situation especially the security in the area. They construct new nests every evening and each animal sets its own nest and only infant’s sleep with their mothers in the same nest. The nest includes branches of plants that are laid together and others bent inform of a nest rim. Females and young gorillas love to sleep up in the trees as the silverback hardly goes up due to its weight.
Gorilla trekking in Uganda can be physically demanding, so be prepared well enough. These Gorilla facts prepare you for this safari activity and give you guidance on conservation of the Mountain Gorillas in Mgahinga national park. Please read these Gorilla facts before your tour to Uganda.
By Sanyu Chris

NYUNGWE FOREST LODGE; LUXURY LODGES OF RWANDA – RWANDA SAFARI NEWS

Positioned in the lush forest of Nyungwe – one of the main Rwanda Safari tour destinations, the Nyungwe Forest Lodge is a top notch facility ranked the best in the whole of southern Rwanda.
Impressively and uniquely designed in line with the surroundings, Nyungwe Forest Lodge stands as an exceptional eco-friendly facility with 5 star facilities and services run by New Mark Hotel professionals. The affluent travelers on adventure vacations in Rwanda Uganda have always found it beyond the ordinary.
The lodge is surrounded by Gisakura Tea Estate at the margin of Nyungwe Forest National Park and presents an ideal ground for exploring the Rwanda’s prime activities in the park including Chimpanzee trekking, Black and White Colobus Monkey Tracking, Nature walk, Birding and the adventurous Nyungwe Canopy Walk. The park is known to shelter 13 Species of primates making it a rewarding Rwanda tour destination.
Nyungwe Forest Lodge features twenty two (22) lush rooms positioned in six (6) Wooden Villas each with four (4) rooms. The lodge enjoys more top notch exclusion as it provides two (2) presidential suites in distinct Villas with one of the two equipped with Jacuzzi. The rooms feature traditional touch but with modern outfits reflecting the true image of a luxury lodge. Guests are treated to the luxuries of private decks overlooking the forest, fire place, Private Mini bar, Air Conditioning, Coffee and Tea Making facilities, Electronic Safe, Hair dryer, en suite bathroom with in door shower, Wi-Fi, International Dial Telephone and Flat LCD screen in their respective rooms. Travellers on Rwanda Safari Holidays can choose from either King Size or Twin Size beds depending on their preference.
Besides the lush room amenities, the Nyungwe Forest Lodge has other remarkable facilities including Swimming pool overlooking the lush forest, Pool side boma for sipping sundowners, two (2) treatment rooms with a Jacuzzi pool, gift shop, Fitness centre, Tea Lounge, 16 Seat Conference facility, Laundry, world class restaurant, exclusive dining terrace and Wireless Internet. These combine to make the lodge a magical wonder that is worth spending an overnight while on safari to Rwanda.

RWANDA TO HOST THE 41st WORLD TOURISM CONFERENCE – RWANDA SAFARI NEWS

The destination Rwanda is in an enchanting mood following the confirmation by Africa Travel Association that the 41^st Annual World Tourism Conference will be conducted in Kigali – the main start and end point for a range of Rwanda Safaris and tours.
Set to run from 14^th – 17^th November 2016, the World Tourism Conference intends to bring on board African leaders, travel professionals and international Investors to leverage a ground for the tapping of tourism including safaris in Rwanda as a drive to economic growth along with employment generation across the African continent through application of new technologies, innovative business models along with strategic partnerships.
The CEO of Rwanda Development Board Francis Gatare is excited about the event and notes that the Rwandan Government is very privileged to host the 41^st Annual World Tourism Conference. The modern infrastructure including the recently opened Kigali Convention Center and the range of Rwanda Safari tour attractions such as Mountain Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park will definitely make the guests’ stay memorable.
The event is known for providing a networking platform, exploring new tourism markets along with products including the African wildlife and cultural heritage preservation and promotion.  Rwanda is working with the Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) to make the event colourful. The Corporate Council of Africa has success in events’ creation which generates continuous opportunities and benefits. The 41^st ATA flagship conference is being hosted under the leadership of CCA for the first time.
The CCA which is the USA’s leading Business Association is noted to have acquired African Travel Association (ATA) in January 2016 focusing on African business and Investment.  According to the Joint Report of African Development Bank, New York University’s Africa House and ATA, the African Tourism stood at $44 billion by 2015.  The ATA is a division of CCA and stands as the leading global trade Association that promotes tourism and travel to Africa and reinforcing intra-Africa partnerships.
Rwanda by no doubt gets a one in a million opportunity to showcase her remarkable nature, culture and history world over gaining an advantage in enticing world travelers to plan safaris to Rwanda.

THE UGANDAN MANGABEY - UGANDA SAFARIS NEWS

 The Uganda Mangabey also scientifically known as “Lophocebus ugandae” can only be spotted in Uganda on the entire planet. This is said to be a descendant of the old-world monkey world and can be seen on your Gorilla tours in Uganda. It was previously assumed to belong to the grey-cheeked Mangabey family, however, Gloves Collin a renowned scientist and taxonomist began a research of Uganda’s new Species and he named it Lophocebus ugandae.
Collins Gloves was able to realize that this is a distinctive specie and is smaller in size compared to the Grey-cheeked Mangabey and it has a smaller face with smaller and shorter skull. Therefore all holiday makers planning their safari in Uganda can see these unique Uganda primates in Mabira forest just 60km from Kampala city along the Kampala-Jinja highway.
Collin discovered that the Ugandan Mangabey is smaller in size compared to the other monkeys in Uganda forests. From his report, he suggested that these Species need to be given extra attention and care with regards to their conservation status and should better be included on the IUCN list of endangered species and this will give them better consideration just as it is on the mountain gorillas and Chimpanzees of Uganda.
Where to See the Uganda Mangabey! Within Uganda, these can be seen in Mabira forest, Itwara, Sango bay, Bugoma forest, Semliki, Kibale and Mpanga. However their biggest population dwells in Mabira forest and can easily be seen during forest nature walks while on Gorilla tracking safaris in Uganda.
Diet of the Uganda Mangabey! The Ugandan Mangabey mainly feeds on fruits and also prefers staying in deeper areas of the forest and dwells mainly in the forest upper canopy.
For more information about primates of Uganda, prime Uganda safaris .com
By Sanyu Chris

NOVEMBER DISCOUNTED GORILLA PERMITS – UGANDA GORILLA SAFARI NEWS

Uganda’s fame does not only stop at holding the highest number of the critically endangered Mountain Gorillas in the world but also offering all possible opportunities to track them! Uganda gorilla trekking safaris and tours in the month of November are again availed at discounted prices.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority the sole seller of Gorilla permits in Uganda through its yearly promotional Offers extended a magical offer to the world travelers intending to do gorilla safaris in Uganda, discounted gorilla permits in the months of April, May and November. Those that missed on the already concluded months, November is on the door steps and there should be no reason to challenge your ego of spending a day with Mountain Gorillas in the mist.
With a price deal of $450, the Foreign Non Resident is able to save $150 on each Gorilla Permit, a Foreign Resident saves $100 and the East African Community Citizens save 100,000/= which can be used to pay for accommodation or hire transport thus making Uganda gorilla safari tour successful at low cost.
Whether one intends to track Mountain Gorillas in either Bwindi Impenetrable or Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, the offer applies to all. With a count of twelve (12) gorilla groups in Bwindi (other two (2) are undergoing habituation) and one gorilla family in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda has got quite good number of gorilla permits that can allow 104 people to track on a single day. An advance gorilla permit booking would be so appropriate to secure your preferred Uganda gorilla tracking safari date.
Interestingly, though killing two birds with one stone is a saying that has no space in the conservation world, it would be self denial by failing break rules and announce that in the same month (November), the Uganda gorilla tour undertakers can stretch to Kibale National Park and track Chimpanzees at only $100 saving $50 on each permit.
This therefore, offers an opportunity to explore the remarkable Primates and a Uganda Wildlife safari experience can be included in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park or Lake Mburo National Park.

EXPLORING THE REMARKABLE BIRDS OF RWANDA – RWANDA SAFARI NEWS

The birding safaris in Rwanda stand among the most ranked on the continent of Africa despite the country’s tiny geographical spread.  Noted to be among the nations with high population density, it is very surprising to hear that a range of over 1450 bird species call it home with twenty seven (27) of these limited in range to the Albertine rift.
Besides the gorilla safaris in Rwanda which have indeed held the mantle for the tourism sector and its contribution to the foreign exchange earnings, it can be noted that birding safaris in Rwanda have got a rich potential to supplement immensely as regards the tourism revenue.
Rwanda boasts of four (4) National Parks including the recently gazetted Gishwati – Mukula National Park all teaming with natural beauty and verdant forest, savannah and other diverse landscapes facilitating the existence of a range of bird species and truly great destination for Rwanda Safari undertakers.
Nyungwe Forest National Park is a rich moist montane forest with a count of 310 species of birds among which include the stunning Rwenzori Turaco, Stuhlman’s Double-collared sunbird, Red-Collared Mountain Babbler, Kungwe Apalis, White Headed Wood-Hoopoe, Purple-breasted Sunbird, Paradise Fly catcher. This birding paradise is also a common destination for Chimpanzee trekking safaris in Rwanda and canopy walk for the Africa adventure vacation safari enthusiasts.
Besides Nyungwe, the destination Rwanda is blessed with Akagera National Park which stands as the only savannah protected area in the country supporting 525 species of birds among which include; African finfoot, Red-Faced Barbet, African Fish Eagle, Shoebill and the Cormorants with the water birds thriving in its extensive wetland system.
The Volcanoes National Park also the main Rwanda gorilla safari destination is blessed with 178 species of birds including the famous Archer’s Ground Robin, Rwenzori Double Collared Sunbird, Dusky Crimsonwing and Rwenzori Turaco.
Generally, the notable species to look out for on a birding safari in Rwanda include; Red faced barbet, Shoebill Stork, Bannett’s Woodpecker, Papyrus Gonolek and Miombo Wren-Warbler and fortunately the activity can be undertaken all year round but those interested in Migrant species can visit in December through to February.

EXPLORING RWANDA’S MUSIC, DANCE & CRAFTS – RWANDA SAFARI NEWS

The Rwanda Safaris and tours are hinged on various aspects and Music, Dance and Crafts are among them. Art is noted to be central to the Rwandan people and it can be listed among the most authentic products that can ever be explored on tours in Rwanda.
The remarkable performances feature excellence and bravery demonstrations not forgetting the impressive artistry dating back from the historical agricultural roots. The famous Intore Dance Troupes perform the optimum displays of the Rwanda’s traditional music and dance which has gone beyond the Rwandan borders to capture the attention of neighboring countries like Uganda and it is not surprising to find the Rwanda Safari undertakers attending to their performances at the range of show centers in the country.
Literally referred to as the Chosen Ones, the Intore legacy date back to their performance at the Royal Court Yard where they would secure military drills and jumping techniques to strengthen their styles of dancing. Today, after many decades, the Nyanza Palace – the site of the last Rwandan Monarchy still hold this historical troupe offering remarkable entertainment to the travelers on Rwanda Safaris. Dressed in grass wigs and holding the clutching spears dancing to the beat of the powerful drum, the Intore performances are indeed very fascinating and those that have viewed them can testify their incredible uniqueness.
The sound of the traditional songs is inspired by eight string harp like instrument named Lulunga while the Ochestra drum supplement the dance with a count of 7 – 9 members who jointly generate hypnotic and mesmerizing intertwining rhythm set. At the Rwanda Gorilla Safari start point Kinigi, Iby’wacu Cultural Village, National Museum and Safari Lodges and hotels, the Intore Troupe can be encountered.
The Rwanda Crafts are majorly produced at Nyakarimbi Village a local cooperative with its unique products being the Imigongo literally Cow dung paintings that are differentiated by whirls coloured in black, brown and white along with other geometric shapes which have made their way to a range of the art centers in the country and available for purchase to the travelers on Rwanda Safari Holidays.
The Basket weaving is another great traditional Rwandan craft skill with the products used for storage and carrying items including gifts for traditional functions. The famous Batwa People are well known for their expertise in pot making.

AN OVERNIGHT THRILL AT NGAMBA ISLAND CHIMPANZEE SANCTUARY

At 23km to the South East of Entebbe in the expanse water mass of Lake Victoria - one the remarkable Uganda safari tour sites, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary stands above the ordinary and offers a perfect urban escape for the Ugandans and foreigners living in Kampala and Entebbe.
Ngamba Island is Uganda’s prime home of the Orphaned Chimpanzees that have been rescued from the Poachers. Amazingly, with the lush forest cover and the surrounding water mass, the Island has gone beyond being the second home for Chimpanzees to include the luxury of mankind as it stands irresistible. The travelers on safaris in Uganda find it impressive in terms of wildlife, conservation education and recreation.
Stretching over a geographical coverage of 100 acres, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary can be located at 32.39’E and 0.06’S geographical coordinates and only accessed by boat from Entebbe. The return boat transfers exist at the dock in Entebbe and advance booking is required. Besides the commonly known Ngamba Day Trips conducted both in the morning and afternoon shifts, the Overnight Ngamba Chimpanzee Sanctuary arrangement is a magical less explored adventure perfect for honeymooners, vacationers, family gateways and relaxation extension for travellers on Uganda safari holidays.
With the highest elevation noted to be 3800 feet above sea level, Ngamba Island enjoys a relatively flat terrain rising gently in the South. The Fishing community used to occupy the Island before it was changed to a Chimpanzee Sanctuary in 1998. The inhabitants had already cleared 2 acres of this Island and it is this area where the centre was constructed along with the lush overnight tented accommodation. The other important features at this site include; the Chimpanzee viewing platform and their feeding ground.
The Overnight stay at Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary includes accommodation in a lush Tented Camp en suite refreshed by the soothing fresh air from the Lake itself and the Island forest. The sun set boat cruise on Lake Victoria is very magical offering a perfect recreation moment amidst the world’s largest tropical lake. For beach enthusiasts, the Ngamba Island offers activities like Kayaking, Soccer and Swinging. The significant conservation education about the Chimpanzees including their feeding, veterinary, sleeping and general caring combine to make the two days Ngamba Trip one of the lasting experiences in the Uganda tour portfolio.

MASAI GIRAFFE; ANIMALS OF EAST AFRICA – UGANDA SAFARI NEWS

Scientifically referred to as Giraffa tippelskirchi, the Masai Giraffe is one of the East African Safari tour wild game products thriving in the range of East African Countries especially Kenya and Tanzania.
The Masai Giraffe body is marked with jagged spots and is the largest of all the Giraffe Species. Also noted to be the tallest of all the Giraffe Species and thus becoming the world’s tallest mammal with a fully grown up height of 19 feet, the Masai Giraffe cannot escape the sight of the world travelers on Africa safaris in Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania.
The females are normally shorter compared to the males with a fully grown up standing at 16 feet in height. The weight varies and the males can stretch from 2,000 to 3,000 pounds while the female can stretch from 1,300 to 2,000 pounds. The male Masai Giraffe feature dark spots compared to females.  In fact, the dominant male in the herd has darkest spots which surprisingly wouldn’t be that way when he first takes up the role. These Species do not posses spots below the knees which feature creamy or white color.
The Masai Giraffe are noted to be exceedingly powerful considering the design of the hooves and the legs which explains why the predators would always wish to avoid attacking them because a single Kick can kill a predator. The Masai Giraffe are noted to be the fast runners featuring a speed of up to 35miles per hour. The long necks interestingly feature valves that prevent blood from running to the head area when the animal is bending to drink water making it one of the unique wildlife species in the world.
Regarding the behavior, the Masai Giraffe thrive in smaller herds and enjoy great social coherence with only aggression among males while pushing for dominancy and mating rights. There is no considerable connection between males and females until the time of mating and individuals roam in a home range of about fifty (50) miles.
The Masai Giraffes are complete herbivores and their diet includes vegetation items like seasonal fruits, Acacia leaves, twigs and flowers. They can spend a lot of time feeding about 16 – 20 hours. The thick lips and tongue enable them to forage around the thorns. The males feed from right top branches while the females feed from lower branches and since they prefer to feed in areas where their food would have more water, the Maasai Giraffes are capable of going some days without water.
Regarding reproduction, the female Masai Giraffe can mate at the age of four (4) years while Males push up to seven (7) years due to the struggle for dominancy. The gestation period is fifteen (15) months and usually it is one calf though twins rarely occur. Like many of the herbivores, the Maasai Giraffe also has predators and these include mostly Lions and Hyenas. As regards conservation, the International Union Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists them as Least Concern.
The combination of the above listed make the Maasai Giraffe interesting animals, very exciting to explore on safaris in Tanzania, Kenya and Rwanda.

THE BANDED BROTHERS OF QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK

The “banded brothers” Banded mongooses are small but amazing carnivores that are not more than 12-16 inches long and weighing about 2kgs. Unlike other mangoose species, banded mangoose have dark beautiful bands across their backs, from which their name originated. They have 5 digits on their front foot paws but with only 4 on their back feet. The non-retractable claws used for digging insect holes.
The Banded mongooses live in sub-Saharan and Southern parts of Africa, where they are found in savannah grasslands, rocky terrains and woodlands.
As all other carnivores, the banded mongooses feed on small vertebrates like snakes, insects and rats. This diet also covers invertebrates like beetles and millipedes. They also feed on reptile and bird eggs or even fallen fruit.
The Banded mangoose are social animals that live in big packs with as many as 50 family members, although smaller packs of 10-20 are more common in Queen Elizabeth national park. They are strictly diurnal animals and can be heard chattering to each other during day time. They work together as a group to fend off predators especially large birds. For many travelers on Uganda safaris, the banded mongoose research project becomes one of the highlights of all time on their tour to Queen Elizabeth national park.
Taking time with these amazing creatures is a peak on its own although all you need is to let us know that you would love to spend an afternoon tour with them and we shall include them on your Uganda safari itinerary as you enjoy the rest of Uganda’s beauty.

THE OSTRICH AND ITS UNTOLD TALE

Also known as the “Struthio Camalus” and world’s largest bird. These are found only in Kidepo valley national park in north eastern Uganda and one of the endemic birds of Africa. These huge flightless birds have got small heads, wings and huge legs with two pointing fingers. Africa has got only one species of ostrich which is further subdivided into two races, Nominate and masaicus.
Both sexes have got an average height of 2.5M with males having brown eyes, white wings black body feathers, tail, pink neck and legs. A female ostrich is brown with pinkish-brown legs and the chicks have black heads, necks, stripped buff and they are considered mature at 3-4 years. Their wings grow up to 2 meters and are used for mating, shade chicks, convert heat and help in changing direction while running.
Unlike other birds, the ostrich has got three stomachs and can excrete urine from dung. This bird has no teeth and this is the reason why it swallows pebbles to help them digest the food and an adult ostrich can carry up to 1 kg of stones. The male reproductive organ is only visible when the ostrich is passing out waste and females become fertile at six years.
Ostriches are first runners unlike other birds; they move at 70km/hr. with 5metres per stride and also walk 4km/hr.
Ostriches love dust bathing and at times are seen putting their heads in sand with the rest of the body outside. Male ostriches have vibrant calls that are sometimes mistaken to be lions roar and can be heard in 1km distance.
The ostrich lays up to 15 eggs per month and they lay mainly in the dry seasons of February to June. Their eggs are the largest of all the other birds with a 15cm diameter and weigh as much as two dozens of eggs. The male ostrich prepares or digs the ground with a 1metre wide hole to cover its wide body and then pours there sand on which the eggs are laid. The sand is meant to provide extra warmth for the eggs to hatch. All the female ostriches lay their eggs in one hole/nest and these eggs are incubated by a dominant female during day time and by the male at night. The incubation takes 35-45 days and the male is responsible for teaching, defending and feeding the chicks. In the first 6 days these chicks don’t feed on anything but only the york in their body systems and after that begin with feeding on sand grains.
Any traveler on a Uganda tour should take time and visit these fascinating birds in Kidepo valley national park. Learn about their breeding tales, daily life and origin. But don’t forget to give your self-distance from their eggs as these birds can be so aggressive at that moment.