Why Head to Uganda on a Safari?
Posted on Friday, July 1st, 2011
As safari destinations go, Uganda is a bit like the red-headed stepchild. It’s just not a safari destination that people are jumping up and down to get to. Quite simply, it doesn’t have the same open grasslands appeal as somewhere like Kenya or Tanzania – but safaris in Uganda aren’t rated as highly as they should be. The key is not to go there for a typical safari experience. Rather, take up a Uganda safari as a second or third trip to Africa so you can appreciate it on its own merits rather than measuring it against what it most definitely is not.
And what are those merits, you may ask?
1. Gorilla trekking
Gorilla and sometimes chimpanzee trekking are the big draws to Uganda these days. Seeing one of these beautiful animals up close and personal is an experience that simply cannot be topped. They’re remarkably like humans, so incredibly sympathetic, and the experience will in all likelihood bring tears to your eyes. They may even approach you and touch your clothes, your hair, or your hands. Groups are often families and watching these mothers with their babies is awe-inspiring. It can be a life-changing experience, well worth visiting for, as there aren’t many places where you can get close to these amazing animals in the wild. This is one of those places.
2. Fascinating biodiversity
Uganda actually has quite a few other animals, too. It’s a rich birding destination with over 1000 different bird species recorded in the country. There are plenty of other animals, including many of the safari greats, which you can see at one of the national parks – a good chance for first-timers to get a little bit of classic safari action as well.
Uganda’s climate is largely different from its more famous neighbours, with a generally warm and wet equatorial climate. It does rain throughout the year, despite having two official rainy seasons, so it’s better to go when it suits you and not pay much mind to the weather.
3. The chance to do good
Uganda is one of Africa’s poorer countries, only just starting to pull itself up from the poverty it’s been mired in for decades. You will encounter this poverty on your trip through Uganda, in many cases on transfers from your accommodation through to the parks and other experiences. Road conditions will vary, so in many cases you will have to get out of your vehicle if only to look around. Uganda’s people, despite their poverty, are actually incredibly kind and friendly, and will inspire you to do true good in their community.
The drive to help Uganda through tourism is already there, in that the government is talking about reducing the costs for the permits and increasing numbers. Naturally, this threatens the gorilla’s way of life, as more humans will undoubtedly disturb their peaceful ecosystem and could potentially not provide the extra revenue that the Ugandan government is looking for. It’s hard to say, but what is certain is that, if you have your heart set on travelling to Uganda and seeing these gorillas, you should go sooner rather than later.
