Visiting Primates in Uganda

Visiting Primates in Uganda: A Budget-Friendly Safari Experience

Uganda is one of Africa’s premier destinations for wildlife safaris, and it offers an unforgettable experience, even for those on a budget. With a rich diversity of primates, wildlife, and cultural experiences, Uganda presents a unique opportunity for adventure. In this article, we highlight some of the best activities for a budget-friendly camping safari in Uganda, ensuring that you can explore the country safely and enjoyably, especially in the “new normal.”

Top Things to Do on a Low-Budget Camping Safari in Uganda

Uganda is home to a range of safari activities that cater to all types of travelers, from nature lovers to cultural explorers. Here are some of the top activities you can enjoy on a budget-friendly camping safari in Uganda.

Primate Tracking in Uganda

Primate tracking is one of Uganda’s top safari activities, allowing you to explore the country’s diverse forests in search of its famous primates. Uganda is home to several species of primates, including Mountain Gorillas, Chimpanzees, and Golden Monkeys. The main primate tracking activities include Gorilla Trekking, Chimpanzee Trekking, and Golden Monkey Trekking.

These treks are conducted in small groups of eight tourists per family group, and all COVID-19 safety protocols and guidelines are strictly followed to ensure the safety of both the tourists and the primates.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

For many, Gorilla Trekking is the highlight of a visit to Uganda. This activity takes place in two of Uganda’s top parks: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

• Gorilla Trekking permits are priced at USD 800 for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for East African residents, and USD 80 for East African citizens, granting you a one-hour encounter with the mountain gorillas.
• For those seeking a more immersive experience, you can opt for the Gorilla Habituation Experience, which costs USD 1500 and allows you to spend four hours with the gorillas, learning about their behavior and contributing to their habituation process.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda

Chimpanzee Trekking is another incredible primate activity you can enjoy in Uganda. This takes place in several of Uganda’s lush forests, including Kibale Forest National Park, Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu Forest, and Budongo Forest near Murchison Falls National Park.

• A Chimpanzee Trekking permit costs USD 250 for foreign non-residents, USD 200 for residents, and USD 50 for citizens, giving you a one-hour encounter with the chimpanzees.
• If you’re looking for a more in-depth experience, consider the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience in Kibale Forest National Park, where you can spend half a day with the chimpanzees, learning about their daily activities and behavior.

Golden Monkey Trekking

Golden Monkey Trekking is only available in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These vibrant monkeys are a joy to watch as they interact in their natural habitat.

• A Golden Monkey Trekking permit costs USD 100, giving you one hour to observe the monkeys.
• Alternatively, you can go for the Golden Monkey Habituation Experience which costs USD 140 and gives you four hours with the monkeys, allowing for a deeper understanding of their behavior and social structure.

Gorilla Habituation Experience

The Gorilla Habituation Experience is a unique opportunity to spend an extended amount of time with semi-habituated mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This experience involves trekking through the forest to find gorillas that are still adjusting to human presence.

• This experience lasts four hours, giving you more time to observe and interact with the gorillas than the regular one-hour encounter. It is an incredible opportunity to learn about the gorillas’ natural behavior and witness their daily activities.

The Gorilla Habituation Experience is conducted in small groups of four visitors per trek, making it a personal and memorable adventure.

Wildlife Viewing in Uganda

In addition to primates, Uganda offers a wide range of wildlife viewing opportunities. You can enjoy game drives in several savannah national parks, such as:

• Kidepo Valley National Park
• Murchison Falls National Park
• Lake Mburo National Park
• Queen Elizabeth National Park (famous for its tree-climbing lions)

These parks are home to iconic African wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, lions, leopards, and more. Be prepared for thrilling game drives where you’ll encounter wildlife in their natural habitat.

Experiential Tourism Activities

For a truly immersive experience, Uganda offers a variety of experiential tourism activities. These include:

• Lion tracking and Mongoose tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Hippo Census and Bird Counts for conservation efforts

These activities give you the chance to get up close to wildlife while contributing to vital conservation work.

Cultural Experiences in Uganda: Explore Diverse Traditions and Communities

Uganda is one of Africa’s most culturally diverse countries, home to more than 50 ethnic tribes and languages. Each tribe has its unique traditions, customs, and way of life, making Uganda an exciting destination for those seeking rich cultural experiences. During your Uganda safari, you will have the opportunity to visit local communities and learn firsthand about their daily lives, challenges, and how they coexist peacefully with the wildlife around them.

From traditional dances to cultural encounters, you will gain insight into the deep-rooted heritage of Uganda’s people. Whether you’re visiting a village near a national park or attending a cultural event, you’ll experience the warmth and hospitality that Ugandans are known for.

Mountain Hiking and Cycling Adventures

Uganda’s stunning landscapes offer the perfect setting for mountain hiking and cycling enthusiasts. The country’s hills and mountains, including the famous Mountains of the Moon (Rwenzori Mountains), Mountains of Muhavura, Mount Elgon, and others, are perfect for a variety of outdoor activities. Hiking up these scenic peaks provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, and cycling through the highlands offers a unique way to immerse yourself in Uganda’s natural beauty.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or someone looking for a new challenge, Uganda’s diverse terrains provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable adventure.

Bird Watching: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

With over 1,000 bird species recorded, Uganda is one of Africa’s premier birdwatching destinations. The country is home to both migrant birds and Albertine endemics, making it a must-visit location for birding enthusiasts. Some of the most famous birding spots include Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Mabamba Swamp, Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Bigodi Wetland.

Among the must-see species are the Shoebill Stork, Gray Crowned Crane (Uganda’s national bird), Giant Kingfisher, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, and many more. Whether you’re on a game drive or a dedicated birdwatching safari, you’re sure to encounter rare and fascinating birds that make Uganda a true paradise for bird lovers.

Boat Safari Excursions: Get Up Close to Wildlife on the Water

Uganda’s numerous lakes and rivers provide the perfect setting for exciting boat safaris. One of the top highlights of Uganda’s water-based activities is the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you can enjoy spectacular views of wildlife along the shores. Another popular option is River Nile excursions, including trips to the Top of the Falls and the Delta, which offer close encounters with various water animals and birds.

These boat safaris are a fantastic way to see animals in their natural habitat from a unique perspective, offering unforgettable moments during your Uganda safari.

When is the Best Time to Visit Primates in Uganda?

The best time to visit primates in Uganda is during the drier months, from December to February and June to October. These months typically experience less rainfall, making it easier to navigate through the parks and go wildlife viewing. Since Uganda is located on the equator, it has a modified equatorial climate with two rainy seasons, and the trails can become slippery during the wet months (March to May and November).

If you’re planning to visit Uganda to see the Mountain Gorillas or other primates, it’s recommended to plan your trip during these drier months for the most enjoyable experience.

Why Choose Excursia Adventures for Your Uganda Safari?

At Excursia Adventures, we are dedicated to providing unforgettable and responsible safari experiences. We prioritize the well-being of our guests, staff, and the local communities, ensuring that your visit supports conservation efforts and sustainable tourism. Our team is committed to creating positive impacts on both the people and places we work with.

Contact us today to plan and book your Uganda safari and enjoy an exceptional journey into the heart of Africa’s wildlife and culture. Whether you’re visiting primates, enjoying a cultural experience, or exploring the country’s natural beauty, we’ll ensure your adventure is truly memorable.