Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa whose diverse landscape encompasses the snow-capped Ruwenzori Mountains and immense Lake Victoria. Its abundant wildlife includes chimpanzees as well as rare birds.

Remote Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a renowned mountain gorilla sanctuary. Murchison Falls National Park in the northwest is known for its 43m-tall waterfall and wildlife such as hippos, lions, elephants, gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, zebras, eland, buffalo, giraffes among many interesting as well as different bird and plant species. There are various means to get around Uganda depending on one’s interests and budget.

Public Taxis (Matatus): these are minivans and carry 14 passengers. They are very common, easily accessible from almost anywhere in Kampala, and are relatively cheap. They stop almost anywhere to pick and drop off passengers, so it’s easy to get one. Every taxi usually has a driver and a conductor. If you are not sure of your destination you can always ask for directions from either of them.

They have a tendency to over-charge foreigners trying to make an easy profit from their ignorance. But they do not insist much if you quote the right price to them, because the other passengers will often back you up.

Boda Boda / public motorcycles: You can get a boda boda almost anywhere in Kampala. They maneuver through Kampala traffic in a very scary way, but more often than not get you to your destination in time. Boda bodas are much more expensive than taxis, but because they break almost every traffic law, they are fast and that is why many people think the cost is worth it. For many foreigners a boda boda ride is a new and exciting experience, especially if they have never been to Africa before. So, if you choose to use a boda boda, remember to wear your helmet and feel free to ask the boda boda rider to slow down if he’s going faster than you can handle.

Special Hire Taxi: They are the most expensive means of travelling in and around Uganda. It can be a bit cheaper if you are sharing with someone, so you split the cost. Most hotels always know the trustworthy taxis, you can always ask them to recommend one for you. They will call up a taxi for you, but you probably will not get the best price, but you can always negotiate.

Vehicle hire: Another alternative means of transport is to hire a vehicle from a vehicle hire company. Many tour and travel companies also offer this service. You can hire a vehicle with a driver for a day with fuel inclusive in the cost. Some companies give you the option driving yourself, rather than using a company driver. Hiring a vehicle to move in around Kampala of course is cheaper than hiring one to travel to other parts of Uganda. But it is convenient and comfortable if you are on a Uganda safari.

Buses: To many places that are not too far, you can take a taxi. Otherwise, there are buses that will take you there for a very reasonable price and at a speed that is often faster than what you might be comfortable with. They are a bit crowded but the normal way to getting somewhere 350 kilometers away.

Buses are also the means of getting to Rwanda, Kenya, and South Sudan.  You can fly, but the price difference is huge.

Air transport: There are various charter and scheduled flights which can transfer you to different far places of the country from Kampala including national parks. This the fastest way to access far places but quite expensive.

Types of visas.

 

The easier way of getting a visa to Uganda is purchasing it at the entry point, Entebbe Airport or any border station. This is very possible for tourists. All you need to do is pay USD 50, fill in the application form with passport dates and information. The visa fee of USD 50 usually runs for 90 days.

You can also get a visa applying online if you a citizen of the following countries, USA, UK, South Africa, Russia, Japan, Italy, India, Germany, France, Denmark, China, Canada, and Belgium. All you need to do is to download the application from the embassy website of your country of origin. you will need to attach 2 passport photos.

Tourist visa to Uganda

All tourists to Uganda are kindly requested to comply with the requirements below before they can get a visa to Uganda.

Every traveler must have a valid passport of nationality or origin issued their government.

It’s safer to have the International Inoculation Certificate against yellow fever.

You may also be asked to show your return ticket. This is usually not asked.

Please note that individuals who are American or British citizens as well as almost all commonwealth nations and Europe do need a visa to get to Uganda. If you a national form the countries below, you do not need a visa.

African countries namely, Zambia, Tanzania, Swaziland, Seychelles, Rwanda, Madagascar, Mauritius, Malawi, Kenya, Eritrea, Comoros, Burundi and Angola.

Others include St. Vincent and the Grenadines Islands, Barbados, Bahamas, Antigua, Gambia, Jamaica, Lesotho, Malta, Singapore, Solomon Islands and Cyprus

Chimpanzee trekking is an adventurous and exciting activity in Uganda that allows visitors to counter the fascinating primates within their natural habitat. Chimpanzees can be found in several national parks but chimp trekking is done in Kibale, Kyambura gorge, Kalinzu and Budongo forest.  Chimpanzee trekking destinations are explained as below,

• Kibale national park.

Kibale national park is located in western part of Uganda, a renowned place for diverse rainforests and a haven for primates housing over 13 species including 1450 chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, grey checked mangabey and olive baboons. Kibale national park offers opportunities for guided primate tracking and habituation as well as bird watching with an array of birds.

• Kyambura Gorge.

Commonly known as the ‘’Valley of Apes’’, this is a captivating chimpanzee destination located within Queen Elizabeth national park in Western Uganda. Visitors to Kyambura gorge get chance to encounter and trek habituated chimpanzees as they learn about their natural behaviors and interactions. The gorge is also home to other primate species like black and white colobus monkeys, and olive baboons.

• Kalinzu forest.

Kalinzu forest is found in western Uganda a recognized home of primates especially chimpanzees. The reserve offers visitors to engage in guided chimp raking allowing them witness these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. You are able to take on a guided walk through the forest and observe their behaviors, social interactions and their distinctive vocalizations.

• Budongo forest.

Budongo forest is a notable physical feature located in the northwestern part of Uganda known for its significant chimpanzee population. The forest is part of the large Murchison falls conservation area and is considered one of the most important chimpanzee habitants in east Africa. You are able to engage in chimp tracking experiences that allows you track and observe these primates in their natural environment. Budongo forest provides a captivating and immersive opportunity for those interested in encountering chimpanzees amidst the richness of a tropical forest eco system.

Chimpanzee Habituation in Kibale National Park and Budongo Forest.

Chimpanzee habituation in kibale national park and Budongo forest involves gradually acclimating wild chimps to the presence of humans. The activity is done by tourists and researchers who spend extended periods of time near these primates allowing them become accustomed to human observers. This process helps gather valuable data on primate behavior, social interactions and ecology.

Habituation starts in the morning with a short briefing on how to behave while in the presence of chimpanzees, you are allowed to be with the chimps for a whole day as you learn and get exposed about their behaviors.

Chimpanzee trekking list.

• Long sleeved shirts and trousers
• Hiking boots
• Hat and sunglasses to protect you from the sun
• Insect repellent
• Camera with zoom lenses
• Binoculars
• Water poof back pack
• Water proof jacket
• First aid kit
• Extra batteries and power banks
• Packed food and water for refreshment
• Necessary documents.
• hiking stick.

Chimpanzee trekking rules and regulations. 

• Do not eat or drink in the presence of chimpanzees.
• Trackers are only allowed to be with chimpanzees for one hour.
• Minimum age for participants is 15 years.
• Only 8 people are allowed to participate in traking experience
• Sick visitors are not allowd to track or be around chimpanzees.
• Alwas keep a distance of 7 meters away from the chimpanzees.
• Trackers are advised to alwas follow guidelines given by guids.
• You are not alowd to smoke in the presence of chimps.
• Every group of eight is supposed t be accompanied by an experienced guide who has knowledge about these primates
• You are not allowed to chase chipanzees as they might turn aggressive
• You ae advised to always kep your voie at a low rate
• Do not leave or dump rubbish in the forest
• You are not allowed to provoke the chimps
• You are not allowed to try feeding these primates
• Trackers with flue, cough or rlated colds are not allowed to track chimps.
• You are advised to arrive eay moning and start your acking with a briefing session
• Always stay in your groups and don’t get excited when you encounter cimps

You are not allowed to ease yourself near the presene of primaes, you ca only ease yourself and burry your tissues 30cm deep with a tissue.

Bwindi national park is a renowned national park located in southwestern Uganda, widely known for its exceptional bio diversity and is classified as a UNESCO world heritage site. The Park covers an area of about 31 square kilometers and is situated within the Albertine rift valley.

One of the main highlights of Bwindi is its population of endangered mountain gorillas, which makes it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiast and nature lovers. The park is home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, making it an important conservation area for these incredible creatures.

It also boasts a rich variety of other wildlife like primate species of chimps, black and white colobus monkeys and olive baboons. Additionally, the park is teeming with diverse bird species making it a paradise for bird watchers.

In addition to gorilla trekking, Bwindi offers other activities like guided nature walks, bird watching and cultural encounters with the local Batwa community. Exploring the park’s magnificent landscapes, encountering remarkable wildlife and learning about the local culture make Bwindi national park a truly unique and captivating destination.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is an unforgettable wildlife experience that involves hiking into dense forests of Bwindi impenetrable national park or Mgahinga national park to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

The trek starts with a briefing by park experienced guides to prepare visitors for the strenuous activity ahead, including rules and regulations for gorilla trekking. A qualified guide accompanies visitors on foot through the rugged terrain to locate gorillas.

The trek through the forest can take anywhere from 2 to several hours depending on the location and movement of the gorilla families. Once a gorilla family is located, visitors spend an hour in their presence, observing and taking snaps from a safe distance.

This activity provides a blend of adventure, excitement and conservation education. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of being so close to these magnificent creatures while learning about their behaviors, habits, conservation efforts and challenges they face in the world.

How to book gorilla permits?

To book for a gorilla permit, you need to follow the following steps,

• Identify the tour operator you would like to work with by doing preliminary research and reading reviews from other tourists.
• Contact the tour operators to inform them about your interests in trekking gorillas and let them know about your picked dates.
• Tour operators will check availability of gorilla permits in the preferred park on the dates you plan of travel. If permits are available. They will reserve them for you.
• You will then be required to provide your personal details, including your full names, passport number and nationality. These details are needed to process the official permits.
• Payment for the gorilla trekking permit usually goes through the Uganda wildlife authority and can be made directly or through your tour operator.
• Upon confirmation of payment, your travel agency will secure your gorilla permit and you with receive an email with confirmation from UWA.

Rules and regulations of gorilla trekking.

• Do not take pictures with flash light on
• Do not chew in the presence of gorillas
• Do not eat or drink in the presence of gorillas
• Do not try to feed gorillas
• Always maintain a distance of 8 meters away from gorillas
• Do not litter the environment of gorillas
• Do not ease yourself near the gorilla premises.
• Do not cough or sneeze in the presence of gorillas
• Persons above the 15 years are allowed to trek gorillas
• Do not try to touch gorillas.
• Do not make noise while trekking
• Do not smoke in the presence of gorillas.
• Only eight visitors are allowed to trek a certain gorilla family per day
• You are required to follow rules and guidelines given by guides and stay in your group.

Packing List for Gorilla Trekking.

• Long sleeved shirts and trousers
• Insect repellent
• Packed food and drinking water
• Hiking boots
• Hiking stick
• Hat and sun screen
• Waterproof back pack
• Water proof jacket
• Gorilla permits and other documents
• Exchanged money for tips

Cost of Gorilla Permit

USD 700 for nonresidents per person

USD 600 for residents per person

UGX250, 000 for East African citizens per person.