Uganda Airline to Start Direct flights to UK
Uganda Airlines, the national carrier is set to launch another international flight in the European region, into the Getwick Airport, London. Currently Uganda Airlines is already seeking to recruit a station and country manager in London, final steps to actualizing slots at London Gatwick Airport that they secured earlier this year.
Uganda Airlines have secured four weekly slots to operate between Entebbe and London Gatwick.
Uganda Airlines will use their A330-800 and operate from Gatwick’s South Terminal. Gatwick became a priority for the airline after failing to secure Heathrow slots. Gatwick was confirmed after they completed ICAO safety audits.
Uganda Airlines fleet currently comprises four CRJ900LRs and two Airbus A330-800neos; they have now also wet-leased an Airbus A320-200 from South Africa’s Global Airways to boost long distance routes.
Reports indicate that the airline is already in discussions with Boeing for the acquisition of two 787-800 Dreamliners to augment long haul capacity as well as a 737-800 freighter to boost cargo capacity in the short term.
Shareholders have also approved the leasing of two Airbus A320s, to replace the A330s on medium range routes such as Dubai. In the interim, this would free capacity, allowing the launch of London and Guangzhou, which cannot be served within the current fleet limitations.
Whilst the inaugural flight date is pending final certifications from UK and European aviation authorities, anticipation is high for this step in Ugandan aviation.
Currently, the national carrier has direct routes covering bigger cities of Africa among which include; Abuja, Bujumbura, Dar es Salaam, Harare, Johannesburg, Juba, Kilimanjaro, Kinshasa, Lagos, Lusaka, Mogadishu, Mombasa, Nairobi, Zanzibar, beyond Africa is Mumbai, and Dubai.
Read MoreEmbarking on a Self-Drive Safari in Uganda
A self-drive safari in Uganda offers a unique opportunity to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and cultural heritage at your own pace. Here’s everything you need to know to plan and enjoy an unforgettable self-drive safari excursion in Uganda:
Choosing Your Route
Popular Destinations: Consider visiting iconic national parks like Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Kidepo Valley, or exploring the scenic beauty of Lake Mburo.
Road Conditions: While major highways are generally well-maintained, some rural roads may be rough, especially during the rainy season. A 4WD vehicle is recommended for accessing remote areas and navigating challenging terrain.
Essential Planning Tips
Vehicle Rental: Rent a reliable 4WD vehicle from reputable agencies in Kampala or major cities. Ensure the vehicle is equipped with spare tires, basic tools, and emergency supplies.
Permits and Fees: Obtain necessary permits for activities such as gorilla trekking or chimpanzee tracking in advance. Pay park entry fees and any additional fees for guided tours or activities.
Navigation and Maps: Download offline maps or GPS navigation apps to navigate through Uganda’s diverse landscapes. Signage can be limited in rural areas, so it’s essential to have a reliable navigation tool.
Wildlife Encounters
Game Drives: with cheap Uganda self drive, Explore national parks on self-guided game drives in a pop roof car to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalo, and various antelope species. Follow park regulations and wildlife viewing etiquette for a safe and respectful experience.
Boat Safaris: Enjoy boat safaris along rivers and lakes to observe hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife, such as the majestic shoebill stork in Mabamba Swamp.
Cultural Experiences
Community Visits: Engage in cultural interactions by visiting local villages and communities. Participate in cultural performances, and traditional meals, and learn about local customs and traditions.
Historical Sites: Explore historical sites such as the Kasubi Tombs in Kampala or the Ssezibwa Falls, which hold cultural significance to the Buganda Kingdom.
Safety and Practical Considerations
Driving Tips: Drive cautiously, especially in rural areas where road conditions may vary. Watch out for wildlife crossing roads, and avoid driving at night due to limited visibility.
Health Precautions: Take necessary health precautions, including vaccinations and carrying mosquito repellent and antimalarial medication, particularly if traveling to remote areas.
Emergency Contacts: Keep emergency contacts, including park authorities and your rental company, handy. Have a plan for communication in case of emergencies or breakdowns.
Accommodation Options
Lodges and Campsites: Choose from a range of accommodation options within national parks, including lodges, tented camps, and campsites. Book in advance during peak seasons.
Outside Park Accommodation: Explore nearby towns and cities for additional accommodation choices, offering a blend of comfort and local hospitality.
Conclusion
Embarking on a self-drive safari in Uganda allows you to immerse yourself in the country’s natural wonders and cultural diversity on your terms. With careful planning, a sense of adventure, and respect for local customs and wildlife, you can create lasting memories while exploring Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes and encountering its extraordinary wildlife. Plan your journey, pack your essentials, and get ready to experience the beauty of Uganda through the freedom of a self-drive safari.
Read MoreBest 5 Places to Enjoy Cultural Tours in Uganda
Besides Uganda being naturally blessed with multiple features like the legendary Mount Rwenzori ranges, Nile river which is the longest in the world, 10 national parks with vast species of wildlife, several tropical forests, continent’s largest lake Victoria with numerous islands like Ssese islands, it is also blessed with uncountable number of varied cultures.
Uganda has over 50 cultures all with different practices, customs, norms, values and languages plus other aspects that make them different from each other. The Ugandan cuisine also differs with these tribes, different cultures have unique ways of preparing specific food types.
The most special part about these cultures is that their people are warm and friendly. Their hospitality degree is at a point where you don’t even have to ask anyone for help when in need, they just assist anyone with empathy. The joy and excitement that they have for their visitors has pushed Uganda to the top notch cultural destinations in Africa and probably the best in the world.
Talking of the best cultural encounters in Uganda, the following destinations offer ultimate and unbeatable cultural experiences that visitors have been yearning for all their life time.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Batwa Cultural Encounter
Cultural encounters in Bwindi Forest National Park are notably the best encounters in Uganda. Though this park is located very far in the south western corner of the country, it is famously known as a home for the most sought after endangered ape species; the mountain gorillas. It also shelters the most ancient tribal group in Uganda; the batwa pygmies who used to depend on the forest for food and shelter.
The Batwa are very short people of the jungle who have lived almost all their lives in the forests. Although they are now resettled outside the park territories, the Batwa still hold a very strong attachment with the impenetrable forest and particularly with the mountain gorillas.
Before their resettlement, the Batwa used to stay in caves within the forest, and to them God didn’t give them the height or the wealth, but he gave them the forest. They claim to possess the forest, a place from which they were forcefully evicted.
A cultural encounter with the Batwa pygmies gives you an opportunity to visit their traditional shrines, learn how these ancient people used to hunt with an arrow and bow and also to test the local cuisine of the community. They also sometimes offer music dance and drama performance to entertain their visitors. Note that you are always very free to engage in their dance and buy some of their crafts and art work.
Kidepo Valley National Park – Karamojong Cultural Encounters
The remote Kidepo Valley Park is an isolated wilderness destination located in the north eastern part of Uganda. It is surrounded by the notorious, cattle-herding Karamojong. Their main livelihood is herding livestock and live in locally built houses called the “Manyattas”. Visit the Lorukul Cultural Group, located just outside the park and discover the unique culture of this remote tribe.
The local site guides explain the cultural importance of traditional granaries and cattle enclosures. Learn how the villagers make their distinctive beads, sample the local cuisine, and even meet the Karamojong chief, who will narrate the tribe’s oral history and beliefs. Also engage in their traditional dance as they sing and jump up high like the eagles. The story behind each dance is detailed by the local guide. A cultural encounter in Kidepo valley national park is simply an amazing experience that one shouldn’t miss while on their cultural tour in Uganda.
Queen Elizabeth National Park – Local Community Tours
Queen Elizabeth national park is also another envelope of many different cultures that really have a lot to offer to their visitors. Visit the Leopard village, a community that promotes cultural and wildlife conservation through ecosystem in the park.
The village is situated in the northern sector of the park, and partners with other local communities of Kahendero, Hamukungu and Muhokya. The name leopard village originated from the people’s exceptional tolerance of the neighboring wildlife, particularly the leopards which often prey on the village livestock.
Communities so much welcome the opportunity of sharing information about their rich national resources and their cultural traditions to the tourists in the area. They share folk tales and knowledge about their pastoral and agricultural livelihoods. Performances of the traditional songs and dances by village members, school children and some specific groups like the Banyabindi cultural drama group, Basongora women cultural group and the Young men’s acrobatic crew are always also part of the cultural experience in Queen Elizabeth national park, an experience that you shouldn’t just miss recklessly.
Murchison Falls National Park – Banyoro Cultural Encounter
Cultural encounters in Murchison falls National Park. This park is surrounded by a wide range of communities reflecting different tribes of Uganda. The Banyoro in the south, Acholi in the northeast and Alur in the northwest all have different and interesting backgrounds that can be encountered by visitors on their cultural vacations in Uganda.
Most notably the Boomu Women’s group. This offers community trips that explore the heritage of the Bunyoro culture in their daily lives. The encounter ranges from participating in black smith to cultivation to food preparation, craft making plus, local home stays and craft making. There are also energetic dancers who impressively perform traditional dances for the tourists all summing up to one amazing cultural safari experience in Murchison falls national park.
Mityana – Entanda Cultural Village
Would you like to experience the cultural of the Baganda People, the dominant tribe in Central Uganda? The Entanda Cultural Experience brings culture to life during your safari in Uganda. During your visit to this site, you will be taught about the lifestyle of the Baganda People. You can also engage in the day to day activities of the Baganda people including hunting, cooking, local brewing, collecting medicine and more.
Indeed, Uganda is the best cultural safari destination you would ever visit. If you have not visited it yet, don’t let this summer pass you by.
Read MoreBush Camping in Murchison Falls National Park
Put quite simply, bush camping in Africa is not for the faint of heart. That said, all you have to do is show up, pay a fee, and be willing to spend the night in a flimsy tent surrounded by some of the most ferocious predators the world has to offer. Yet even though it sounds daunting, in reality it’s one of the most enjoyable and relaxing activities you can do in Uganda’s National Parks.
In this instance, we tried bush camping in Murchison Falls National Park. We camped on both the south and north side of the park. In the Red Chili’s Campground on the south side, you will have access to basic facilities such as shower and bathrooms. Here you are likely to run into warthogs, hippos, baboons, an array of birds and different types of antelopes. Lions are on the other side of the river so no need to worry about them. However leopards have been spotted nearby.
Since it is a national park there are no fences. This means that it’s quite likely that as you lay in your tent, an animal or two might walk near you. We heard some creature of unknown origin sniffing near the tent, (if this happens, do not get out and look. Stay in the tent and remain quiet and calm). Even if you don’t get anything nearby, rest assured you can always hear hippos snorting and chortling off in the not-too-far distance.
Take a game drive on the north side of the park, and then time to look around, because this area of the par is where the camping gets real. You must let reception know that you plan on camping here because an armed guard is required to escort you. You can pick one up from the entrance or there are outposts you can drive to where one will be waiting for you.
We drove with our guard and settled into our designated campsite. High trees surrounded us and a fire pit sat in the middle. The first thing I heard as we piled out of the vehicle was the cocking our guard’s rifle. Within five minutes we had a roaring fire. Just behind the forest line we could hear the hippos snorting and grunting. “Hear that sound” he laughed, “they are scared of the fire and cannot pass through the camp. That is why they are so loud.”
“What should I do if a hippo or lion comes into camp?” I asked.
“You do nothing. You don’t move and I take care of it.” He pointed to his gun, “I will chase them out. But don’t worry, with the fire they will stay out. All animals are instinctually scared of fire.”
Got it, the fire was my safety net. We drank some beers, watched the stars (which were their own spectacular show) and listened to the sounds of the park. You really can get an idea of what life would have been like before the rise of cities. That for all of our technology and advancement, if you put a human in the middle of the wilderness, everything is faster, stronger, and better adapted than you. Well, better adapted than us, our guide fit right into the surroundings, trudging into the bush with little fear to collect firewood and secure the campsite throughout the night.
Wake up at dawn and you have the park entirely to yourself for almost an hour. Even those staying in lodges on the north side of the Nile have a 45-minute drive to the delta. It is a spectacular place to sit and watch the sun rise, as hippos return to the river for the day. This is the best time to spot those lions you’ve likely heard roaring throughout the night.
Camping this close to nature might not be for the faint of heart, but it’s an experience not to be missed. It is from this level that you can truly immerse yourself in the beauty and wilderness of Uganda. For those really looking to get back to nature, it’s an experience that can’t be beat.
To get to Murchison Falls you can hire a Uganda car rental or even drive yourself up to Kafu and then go west towards Masindi. After Masindi follow the signs and turn right, which takes you to a long dirt road and into the park. Entrance is 35USD a day for a tourist, 20USD for a resident and 5,000UGX a night for an East African.
Camping in Red Chili’s Campground will run 10,000 UGX a night. They also have a full bar nearby where you can grab a bite to eat and gain your liquid courage for camping.
Camping on the North side of the Nile requires an armed guard and will run much higher at 40USD per head each night. Even then it is advisable you tip your guard 10-20% as they don’t actually see the majority of that fee. There are no facilities on the North side and you must pack out everything you pack in. So make sure you bring plenty of water and food for your stay. Happy camping!
Read MoreTour Kampala the Capital City of Uganda
Uganda’s capital city is called Kampala City. Not only is it the capital city in Uganda but also the biggest town in the country with a population which is approximately 4 million people. It is the city where most tourism attractions are found, most offices are found, and above all where you can do your shopping when you are going on the safari or tour in the country. Most the travel Itineraries begin and end in Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. Upon your arrival at Entebbe International airport, you will be welcomed by your guide or driver who will then drive you to Kampala where you will be accommodate before you start any of your safaris. Of course there are some accommodations facilities in Entebbe, though most people do not prefer staying in Entebbe. They like staying in the capital city of Uganda. The most notable hotels you can sleep in the city are; Sheraton International Hotel. This is a five star hotel and the headquarters are in Boston in the USA. You will get the same services offered in the other Sheraton hotels in other parts of the world. Other hotels you will sleep in while in Kampala are; Serena International hotel. This also belongs to the Serena group of hotels and the services you will be offered are the same like those in other hotels in the same chain.
Why Kampala City?
The city of Kampala is well endowed with many tourism attractions within the country. This range from manmade or artificial to natural attractions. The most outstanding natural attraction is Lake. Victoria. This is natural feature and along this lake, there are many beaches which have been situated along it. They offer great potential for leisure and relaxation during any day of the week, the best days being weekends. The man made or artificial attractions are also many within the city. The most noticeable one is the Kabaka’s lake in Ndeba. This gives also great potential for relaxation and leisure. You can also participate in Bird watching in café you are a birder or a type of person who likes watching birds. Alongside this lake, there are lodges where you can accommodate yourself. The best accommodation I can recommend you to is Lake side Villas. You can pay for a whole month in this villas. Inside this villas, you can cook for yourself and while inside, you will view Kabaka’s lake, in an angle which will give you the best view as you enjoy the beautiful scenery of the lake. There are also very many entertainment centers with the city. These include; clubs, bars and theatres. The biggest clubs in the city up to date have remained club silk, Governor Club- located in Industrial Area. There are also very new clubs in the city like Ambiance club in Bukesa, a Kampala suburb. These are located all over the city be it in the city center or in the miniskirt of the city. The city is also the biggest commercial center in the town thus in case you are a business traveler, you will do a lot of business within the city.
Why is it good to travel in Kampala with a rented car?
For you to enjoy all the above attractions within the city, you need to be in your own car. This will give you apple time to navigate all these attractions. You will have a lot of freedom when using your own car with the city. In this regard, you can visit natural destinations like lakes for example the Kabaka’s lake and in the night you visit clubs for a dancing and a beer or any drink for yourself. Cars offered for self drive in Kampala are very clean, and it will be up to whether to get the car with the driver or you opt to drive it yourself within the city.
Which other attractions can I visit when am in Kampala City- Uganda’s Capital City?
Apart from the lakes, clubs and other entertainment centers, there are very may other attractions you will visit when you are in Kampala city. These are; The Royal Tombs at Kasubi which have now been under construction but now they are completed, Namugongo martyrs shrine, Ndere cultural center, the Bahai Temple, The Uganda Museum, The national Theatre, Kabaka’s palace, Gadaffi Mosque and historical churches including Namirembe Cathedral and Rubaga Cathedral.
Read MoreHow to Travel Like a Local in Uganda
When it comes to travel experiences, Uganda may not feature on the top list in the world the fact that most destinations have more to offer. However, a safari in Uganda lets you discover nearly all that Africa has to offer the world in one destination that is why it is best described as the ‘Pearl of Africa.’ Get the best of local travel experiences in Africa by embarking on Uganda safari this coming holiday and you won’t regret in life. Tired of mass tourism? Uganda is definitely the best destination you should consider a must-visit and you won’t regret in life.
A Uganda safari is the best for you to discover the natural endowments that make Uganda a leading safari destination in Africa. It has a lot more to offer the world ranging from its pristine national parks, wildlife reserves, mystical mountains, water bodies, rain-forests to unique culture.
Tips on how to enjoy local travel experiences in Uganda
Plan your trip early
Any successful tour is planned before. Planning is one essential step any traveler on Uganda tour should put into consideration whether it is local travel experience or the usual tours. The best way to have your trip well planned is simply getting in touch with our reservation team and let us plan your safari tour together. We are readily available 24/7 to ensure you have your travel dreams realized in the pearl of Africa.
Get a guide
A visit to a new destination can be challenging the fact that it involves interacting with new people you have never come across-which comes with language barrier. To be on safer side, finding an experienced ground tour guide is the best way to go. Uganda has several of well trained, experienced and professional tour guides to take you through any part of the country to enjoy your holiday at your comfort. For those of you on plan to embark on self-drive tour, the best is for you to have your GPS to direct you to your dream destination, google maps and any essential guide books.
Know what to eat and where
There is plenty to enjoy on Uganda tour but not all should be stomached. Know what you can eat and the place to do so. There are many good hotels, lodges and restaurants in and around towns for you to have something for the day or dinner. What we always advise our clients is avoid street food as much as you can. When choosing what to eat and where, the hygiene matters a lot. However, there are many dishes for you to try out-local and international.
Don’t take pictures anyhow
While a trip without photography can be boring, taking pictures in some areas is restricted. That is why you need to know where to do it and not to do it. However, for the most amazing pictures, ensure you have a good camera and if you plan to go for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park or chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park, Budongo Forest Reserve, Kyambura Gorge or any part of Uganda, ensure your camera doesn’t have a flashlight and if it does, please turn it off before taking pictures of these apes.
Read MoreTravel With Pop Up Roof Cars in Uganda
Uganda is a beautiful country with unique landscape and good people. When you travel in places like Kabale, Kisoro, you will see what some people call the Switzerland of Africa. On your road trip, when you drive to the East, mountain Elgon and sipi river area are so attractive. Extend your rental safari trip to the northern Uganda and appreciate nature and the rich culture of that place.
All the attractions in Uganda can be visited on car rental basis. It can be on self-drive, or car with a driver. Among the numerous attractions in the country, the country is blessed with many nationals’ parks with diversity of species. Some wildlife national parks include Murchison falls national parks, queen Elizabeth national park, Semuliki national park, and lake mburo national park. Those Parks involves game drive which is best done in the car with pop up roof.
Advantages of cars with pop up Roof
The pop-up roof car allows visitors to view wildlife properly, the visitors will stand have a wide view, take good photos among others.
The pop-up roof cars increase chances of spotting the elusive animals like leopards, and many others.
It gives a chance to visitors with out the window seat to enjoy wildlife properly and take good photos.
The car with pop up roof is fun and allows fresh air from outside. It’s very unique and visitors will follow in love with nature.
Points to note
Not all tourism attractions in Uganda need the car with rooftop tents, there are those which can be visited with any car. Like Bwindi, Kibale, Mgahinga, Mount Rwenzori, Mount Elgon National Parks, there some other destinations like Jinja, Kampala city tour, among others.
Not all cars have pop up roof, depending on the type of activities the visitors are interested in doing, this determines the kind of car. A visitor should be specific in the inquiry whether the car with pop up roof is preferred or not.
Some cars with pop up roofs can be hired on self-drive or with a driver. Cars like 4×4 safari land cruiser extended, need a driver, well as others like 4×4 Toyota land cruiser v8, 4×4 Toyota land cruiser Prado’s, among others can be hired on self-drive.
The pop-up roof is supposed to be used mostly in the game drive, in national parks or reserves. It is not advisable to put a pop-up roof when on highways.
Renting a car with pop up roofs from a reliable company is paramount. The car should be in good conditions to avoid problems on safari, the car should have good tyer, and 4×4 car is recommended
Destinations suitable to be visited with car and pop-up roof.
Uganda has many tourism destinations; some are national parks and others are not. Among the National parks, we have wildlife parks where game drives are done to see wildlife in their natural environment. When carrying out a game drive, a car with pop up roof is suitable. Here below are some of the wildlife parks in Uganda.
Murchison Falls National Park: It is known to have abundancy of wildlife; it is among the biggest parks in Uganda. Game drives in this park are so rewarding, behold animals like the big five, antelopes, Hyenas, and among other. A game drive with pop up roof car will give a wider view of the animals and other attractions in this park.
Queen Elizabeth National Park: It is strategically located in the western Uganda, near magical parks like Bwindi and Kibale national parks. The park also have wildlife to watch in the game drive. The pop-up roof car will give a chance to spot clearly Queen Elizabeth specials. Besides, game drive, the park has other activities like Boat cruise, birding among others.
Lake Mburo National Park: It is also located in the western Uganda; it is among the smallest parks in Uganda. It is also among parks which are loved by visitors on short term trips, like weekends, public holidays, short leaves and many more. A car with pop up roof, will enable visitors explore more in the park, some of the wildlife in this park include, Zebras, giraffes and many nocturnos which are seen in the night game drives.
Semliki National Park. It is found in Bundibugyo. The park is known for its two Natural hot springs and the wildlife, game drive is conducted in the Reserve and many animals can be sighted.
Read MoreTips to Consider When Booking Airport Transfers in Uganda
Are you planning to travel to Uganda for the first time and you need someone to guide you around, you will definitely have to book any services of a car hire company in Uganda for a safe and comfortable road trip to your hotel or residence. Moving around Kampala city can be quite hectic given long traffic jam that holds up and the passengers crowded will do you bad especially you are not a usual visitor. You can decide to use public transportation since it even cheap but its unsafe and so uncomfortable plus the chances of getting where you are going takes time. However when you book an airport service prior to your arrival, you will be very assured of trusted and reliable service hence getting the treatment worth every penny.
Below are the 4 tips to follow to get the best service when looking for transportation to and from the airport.
1. Always book with the right agency; Once you are determined that you will need transportation from the airport, go online and look through the search engines and review the websites to determine which company can offer you an affordable airport transfer service. get to visit the company website and check out the prices, read through the past reviews from customers and find out the latest discounts and offers. The good sources of information include; Google, yahoo, trip advisor, and the safari guides.
2. Always book in advance; once you make a decision on which agency will be offering you their services and then proceed and book online as early as possible. When you are making your travel plans about where and when to travel, you should also include transportation from Entebbe International Airport to your hotel. Go online and search for a reputable company to book with and once your reservation is confirmed, you can either make a deposit or make full payments on arrival.
3. Always indicated flight details; when you send the inquiry, don’t forget to include your full flight details like passenger names, airways names, arrival and departure dates. This is very important as it allows the reservation team to pick you up and drop you off on time giving the superb customer care worth your money.
4. Include the type of rental car and price; the type of rental car to use depends on the number of people that will need transportation to and from Entebbe Airport. A coaster bus is more suitable for small groups of to 30 passengers while a Toyota Rav 4 is also comfortable for 2 to 3 passengers. The family of 6 can use a super custom. All companies offer price quotes based on one way transfer pick up or drop off and this covers driver and fuel.
Read MoreExperience Baganda Culture at Entanda Cultural Village
With over 56 unique tribes within a small country like Uganda, a tourist interested in experiencing culture has a wide range of options to choose from. The most interesting thing is that each of these tribes has different cultural traditions, dances, traditional foods/dishes, marriage rites, traditional songs, local building architectures and lifestyles, handcrafts and musical instruments (such as drums) that make them stand out from the crowd. Uganda takes pride in more than 650 designated cultural sites and monuments recognized as important and has two (2) UNESCO World Heritage Sites and other 8 sites that are still pending approval.
One of the most interesting cultural experiences in Uganda is the Entanda Traditional Hinting and cultural experience. This Cultural experience is possible within Kijjude Village within Mityana District. From a distance, tourists who visit Uganda for Cultural Safari hear the interesting sounds of the Traditional dances, which sound louder as you go closer to the fascinating Kijjude (Entanda Village). The traditional songs with the local community members dancing with the songs providing an exhilarating and fascinating welcome to the tourists who visit the Village. The Local People of Entanda Village provide buffets of their best quality sorted fresh and Organic fruits such as pawpaw, jack fruits, guavas, mangoes, yellow bananas, oranges, watermelons, harvested direct from their gardens as a way of welcoming their visitors. You can also pack these fruits when leaving the Village.
Tourists who visit this Village can participate in some of the local games such as “omweso”, bow and arrow shooting competitions, and also learn how to play the interesting “Sekitulege”-a local musical instrument that has existed for over 600 years.
You-especially men will also be taken to the Hills, swamps, homesteads and some of the forests to learn how to hunt some of the animals. These locals display how most of the activities are done right from carrying the hunting tools (bows, arrows, spears, horns and Pangas). Throughout the hunt, some of the animals will be identified by the locals but you will not be allowed to kill them mainly to allow the animals’ numbers tom increase. As the male tourists go hunting, the female ones remain behind with some of the village women, where they will be taken to the gardens to harvest organic food. These women demonstrate how some of the traditional food especially matooke is prepared as they wait for their husbands to return from hunting.
As the food is put on fire, the female visitors are led by the aunties (Sengas in Luganda) to the bush to be taught about marriage and home management issues. The Sengas teach tourists some of the traditional ways of taking care of their husbands, how to utilize some traditional herbs to treats most of the common ailments and how to handle a home in a real “Kiganda” way. This is where serious bedroom affairs will be discussed ton detail, and will make you understand why these women stay married until old age without divorcing. By the time the men return from hunting, the mouth-watering food is ready and served hot.
After the delicious meal, tourists can be led to the gardens to learn about some of the local herbs or to the local winery to process and taste the local wine, you can also choose to join some of the herdsmen to graze cattle or participate in milking of the cows using hands. The highlight of the Entanda cultural experience is a football match between the locals and tourists and that will be the end of your exciting cultural experience
Read MoreWaterfalls To Explore In Uganda
The waterfalls in Uganda -no destination beats Uganda when it comes to natural beauty. From stunning landscapes, savanna, and lush tropical forests to waterfalls, Uganda is naturally blessed. Here are some of the spectacular waterfalls in Uganda;
Murchison Falls
Murchison Falls lies in the heart of Murchison Falls National Park, Northwestern Uganda. It is set between Lake Kyoga and Lake Albert. Murchison Falls is Uganda’s natural wonder and while at the top, you can hear its powerful roar at a distance. The Murchison waterfall squeezes itself into a narrow gorge measuring 8m and later plunges about 43 meters before it flows to Lake Albert.
While on the Murchison Falls tour, the possible activities to indulge in include whitewater rafting, boat tours (to the base of the falls or delta), sport fishing, and hiking to the top of the falls. Other activities include chimpanzee tracking in Budongo (Kaniyo-Pabidi forest), game drives, hot air balloon tours, nature walks, bird watching, and more.
The Sipi Falls
The Sipi waterfalls consist of 3 scenic waterfalls and they originate from the Sipi River on the slopes of Mt. Elgon. The Sipi Falls is located in Kapchorwa district, Eastern Uganda, and they are observed as they cascade downslope from Elgon Mountain. They are found at an elevation of 1775 meters, and they vary in height of 85 meters, to 75m, and 100m.
A guided hike to the Sipi Falls includes walking through local communities, farmland and the rocky foothills. The round-hiking tour takes about 3 hours and you will experience Uganda’s natural beauty. The three Sipi Falls derive their name from the Sep, a medicinal wild banana tree that commonly grows in this area.
Aruu Falls
Aruu Falls are found along the Gulu-Kitgum highway 47 km from the city center of Gulu and 57 km off from Kitgum. These are some of the little-known waterfalls in Uganda and yet they feature among the charming natural wonders in the pearl of Africa. For guests on Uganda safaris to Kidepo Valley Park and Murchison Falls NP, it is possible to connect to Aruu Falls for a tour and in case you aren’t on a hurry, you will also embark on swimming, rock climbing and guided nature/community walks. There are Six charming waterfalls that make up the Aruu Falls.
Ssezibwa Falls
Ssezibwa Falls is found in Mukono district, East of Kampala about 32km away and they are accessible en route to Jinja. These are some of the most charming waterfalls in Uganda and they are 17m high. They are located at the Ssezibwa River, and they are a cultural treasure in the Buganda Kingdom/among the Baganda.
Itanda Falls
Itanda Waterfalls comprise of a series of rapids and they are located in Jinja, a renowned adrenaline capital of East Africa. This is where adventure lovers can enjoy whitewater rafting, river surfing, kayaking, and more. Itanda is found close to Rippon Falls and it remains a key spot for white water rafting.
Kisizi Waterfalls
Lying in Rukungiri district, Western Uganda, Kisizi waterfalls is set between the lush Queen Elizabeth N/P and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Its water plunges from the Kyabamba River 27 meters high cliff down to a deep gorge. Zip lining over the forest can be done here, plus birding, nature walks and more.
Wanale Falls
Located 6km from Mbale town, Wanale Falls is a thin stream of water plunging 2000m down from a sharp rocky cliff face.
Karuma Falls
Karuma waterfalls are found on the Victoria Nile on the Kampala-Gulu highway. This is where the Karuma power station is located, and this natural wonder forms part of the vast Murchison Falls National Park in Northwestern Uganda.
Miriadua Falls
Miriadua waterfalls are located on River Oluffe and accessible 20km on the Arua-Koboko route. From Arua city, these waterfalls are reachable within 20 minute’s drive and they are found in the Maracha district.
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