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Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for Beginners
For a variety of purposes, Kilimanjaro is well-known. First and foremost, since it is Africa’s highest point and one of the Seven Summits. Second, the mountain has a permanent ice cap that is shrinking, which is rare for a country with such a warm year-round climate. Third, in 1936, Ernest Hemingway published “The Snows of Kilimanjaro,” a short story that was adapted into a film in 1952.

There are a number of reasons why most enthusiasts have Kilimanjaro on their bucket list. The idea that it is the world’s highest free-standing summit is perhaps the most evident of these factors.

It could be because Kilimanjaro is Africa’s crown jewel among the seven summits (the highest peak in each continent). You would really want to visit a mountain with so many different habitats ranging from rainforests to alpine deserts to the arctic.

It may also be the allure of an African safari experience, including those mentioned in John Henry Patterson’s journals. The true beauty of Kili, however, lies in its intricacies. They commence even before you reach the mountain’s base, when you enter Tanzania’s rural areas.

Here you become fascinated with the Swahili people’s charming expressions, which you will remember forever. Their upbeat demeanor and easygoing rhythm will only add to the enjoyment of the journey ahead of you.

Tanzania is a country that has seen relative stability in comparison to its neighbors. The people credit their first president, Julius Kambarage Nyerere, affectionately known as “Baba Wa Taifa,” with bringing them peace (the father of the nation).

From campfire songs and soul-soothing laughs to gentle evening goodbyes of “lala salama,” or good night there’s always something for everyone.

When is the Perfect Time to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

Tanzania is iconically tropical, with wet and dry seasonal variations laid over a hot, muggy weather. Kilimanjaro sits 300 kilometers south of the equator.

Tanzania has two rainy seasons: one that lasts from November to mid-December and another that lasts from March to May. During these seasons, Mount Kilimanjaro climbing routes are known to be wet and muddy.

If you are less concerned with monsoonal climate and more concerned with peace and less traffic, these are the best times to climb because there are far less people.

Since it coincides with European summer vacations, the months of July to October are the busiest on the mountain. It’s drier and cooler than the Christmas season, but expect some chilly nights.

June is an ideal time to climb Mount Kilimanjaro if you want to experience similar weather but with far less crowds. It is just before the summer holidays but nonetheless still high Mount Kilimanjaro climbing season.

The months of December through February are a little bit warm and have a better visibility. However, since the short rainy season will last into December, it may still be damp. Such periods often happen to fall during the Christmas season, so things can get hectic.

Which Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Route is Right for You?

The path you take up Mount Kilimanjaro will primarily determined by your level of experience, health, budget, time available, and personal preferences. On most trails, the number of trekking days as well as food and comfort choices is adjustable.

You will be paying for experience, which entails doing it the right way. Good guides can have adequate facilities with other factors like climate and climbing experience, good food, and a reasonable time period to allow for rest and adjustment being important

When climbing Kilimanjaro, you have a choice of seven routes.

Marangu Route

The Coca-Cola route is the other name for Marangu. It’s a really touristy route that gets its name from the tiny cottages where you can sleep and buy bottled cola. The only route with resting huts is this one.

The path on your Mount Kilimanjaro climbing is a gradual ascent that most people consider to be the most straightforward way to climb the mountain.

Machame Route

The whiskey route is also the other name for Machame. It’s a more difficult ascent than Marangu, and it is somewhat crowded.

As you travel through the mountain’s various habitats, the path provides breathtaking views. The walk offers excellent acclimatization opportunities, with high elevation days followed by low elevation camps at night.

Rongai Route

Rongai is also thought to be a more gentle path. Since the path reaches the peak from the far north, there is much less chance of rain, so you’ll be able to remain dry.

It takes far longer to get to the starting gate than most other hiking, which would add to the cost, but it is far more remote, giving you a better chance of seeing wildlife.

Shira Route

Shira begins at a height of 3,600 metres. This gate will be much elevated than the others, and this is a major contributor to altitude sickness, particularly when you drive up to it rather than hiking and acclimating. On the second day, it follows the Lemosho road, and on the third day, it gets into Machame.

Lemosho Route

Lemosho was developed as a substitute for Shira. This has a lower gate, which helps climbers to acclimate to the elevation more slowly. It’s a more rugged path with chances to see animals, like elephants, along the way. On the third day, it also enters Machame.

Northern Route

The Northern Circuit route is a relatively new route compared to the others. Instead of taking the busier eastern path, it starts on the Lemosho route, passes the Shira plateau, and afterwards loops around the northern slopes.

Umbwe Route

Many people regard Umbwe to be the shortest, steepest, and also most challenging path. First day entails some strenuous climbing. The Machame route is typically joined on the second night at Barranco camp by the majority of operators.

How to Get to Mount Kilimanjaro

Treks to the summit of Kilimanjaro usually begin in one of two major northern cities. Arusha is located to the south west of the mountain, while Moshi is located to the south.

There’s a lot to see and do in these places, including massive waterfalls, monkey forests, and volcanic waterholes… not to mention a few of the worlds most beautiful and flora and fauna rich national parks!

Both towns are easily accessible from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). There are numerous buses and flights available from Dar es Salaam, and also flights from both the island paradise of Zanzibar and bordering Kenya.

Most Mount Kilimanjaro climbers stay in town for a few nights to prepare for the hike and familiarize themselves with the region, but always be wary of this because it may cause you wish you had booked a longer journey so you could stay longer.

What Would You Need in the Way of Clothing and Equipment?

Don’t let the fact that Kilimanjaro is a walk-up mountain fool you into thinking its simple. Planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro is essential, particularly if you have a limited amount of time or are taking a more difficult path.

Porters can transport food and cooking utensils, and also your sleeping arrangements. Many climbing agencies have more than enough surplus equipment if you’d like, but individual gear that has been tried and true is invaluable.
- Hiking boots that are waterproof and breathable, as well as more than enough thick socks. These must be tested and checked even before hiking starts, as the last scenario you would want to do is discover they are undesirable and unpleasant two days in.
- A nice waterproof pouch and hydration sack – one that can carry all of your personal belongings. This should include camera, head torch, clothes and the food you are given for the day.
- Thermals for hiking on cold nights (and some climbing days).
- Even if you’re hiking in the warmer months, you should wear waterproof/windproof pants and a shell because the weather can easily turn cold.
- Hiking pants and clothing that dries quickly. For the first and last days of the treks, zip-off trousers are ideal.
- Whenever the temperature decreases, you’ll should have a fleece or down jacket. It’s easy to overlook these things when you’re sweating just at foot of a tropical mountain. It could be as low as -30 ° C at the peak.
- Gloves and a beanie
- Many people overlook the importance of sunscreen and sunglasses. Other days can be really exposed, so you wouldn’t want to get sunburned during your period upon this mountain.
- It’s a good idea to have a warm set of clothes for the evenings. They keep you warm and allow you to split up the time you spend in your climbing gear.
- Bring simple toiletries, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, as with any trek, but not too much you strain to bear the weight.
- For both the evenings and peak night, bring a head torch.
- A simple medical set containing necessities such as plasters and second skin could be extremely useful. You don’t need any more blisters!
March 5, 2021
Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes
There are about 30,000 people climbing Mount Kilimanjaro every year using different Mount Kilimanjaro climbing routes. This therefore makes Mount Kilimanjaro one of Africa’s most popular attractions.

Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak and a member of the fabled Seven Summits. Uhuru, the summit is also one of the most challenging attractions to reach!

This Tanzania’s iconic mountain stands at 5895 meters but despite the height being intimidating, conquering it is entirely feasible. This comes with a good level of fitness and a decent amount of determination.

To climb Kilimanjaro, you’ll need both physical and mental strength, but that rewarding feeling and sense of achievement at the top will be completely worth it.

There are nine different Mount Kilimanjaro climbing routes of which seven are ascent routes and two are used for descent. Not all these Mount Kilimanjaro climbing routes are recommended, one is now shut and quite a few merge with each other, but they do have their own particular pros and cons. We will tackle 6 of the 9 Mount Kilimanjaro climbing routes.

Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Routes

There is no single best Mount Kilimanjaro climbing route. Which route up Kilimanjaro is the best for you depends on several factors: The time and money you have available, previous experience and fitness, the time of the year, personal preference…

Let’s look at the individual Mount Kilimanjaro climbing routes and who they are suitable for:
- Marangu Route: the only Kilimanjaro climb route that offers hut accommodation.
- Machame Route: the most popular climbing route up Kilimanjaro.
- Rongai Route: the easiest route on Kilimanjaro.
- Shira Route: this one catapults you to some serious altitude on the first day.
- Lemosho Route: hands down the most beautiful Kilimanjaro climb route, but expensive.
- Umbwe Route: the most difficult and demanding route on Kilimanjaro, and the most spectacular.
The Marangu Route

Marangu Route has often been referred to as the “Tourist Route” or “Coca-Cola Route.” This is for two reasons. The major reason is simply its popularity, it makes this climb route somewhat touristy.

The Marangu route is also the only climbing route that uses the same path up and down, which contributes to it being the most crowded climb route on Kilimanjaro.

The Marangu route is a comfortable walking path with a very steady, gradual slope this is until you reach the last camp. This gave the Marangu route a reputation as an “easy” climb route.

The other reason is because it is supposed to be “easy”, the Marangu route is used by many shockingly unprepared “tourists”, rather than trekkers.

The name “Coca Cola Route” stems from the sleeping huts along the route. You will easily find the coca cola soda being sold here. The Marangu route is the only Kilimanjaro climbing route that offers hut accommodation on this Kilimanjaro climbing route, camping is not allowed.

A climb on the Marangu route is comparatively cheap. You need no camping equipment therefore no cost for extra porters to carry the equipment. You can do the climb in five days/four nights. Also, many cut throat budget operators run treks on this route.

Please do not underestimate the trek: the Marangu route is NOT easy and it is NOT for tourists! It is a serious climb with very low success rates. It is only a quarter to a third of the climbers on this route reach the summit of Kilimanjaro. The reason being lack of proper preparedness and planning for mount Kilimanjaro climb. The “tourists” on this route are shockingly unprepared.

A five day climb does not allow for sufficient acclimatization. You will need to add an optional acclimatization day to increase your success level.

The Machame Route

The Machame route is also called the “Whiskey Route”. Machame is “tougher” than the Marangu route.

Machame is indeed a more difficult climb in some respects, but it does have much higher success rates than Marangu. This is especially if you choose the seven day version. According to estimates about 60% of the climbers on Machame make it to the summit, and over three quarters reach the crater rim.

The seven day version gives you a very short day before your summit attempt, which leaves plenty of time to recover, acclimatize and get ready. The six day version has the same problem as the Marangu route in that respect.

The Machame route is not technically difficult but is more strenuous. The trail is often steeper and it involves many ups and downs, crossing a succession of valleys and ridges. But that’s why it is also one day longer than Marangu.

Still, for people who have never done any longer hikes in their life and are not well prepared it can be demanding and tiring. There is also the Barranco Wall to cross, a very steep, one and a half hour climb that will require you to occasionally use your hands for balance. This makes it sounds and looks a lot more difficult than it actually is!

As for scenery, the Machame route is absolutely spectacular. There is the Shira Plateau, the Lava Tower, the Barranco Wall… You start from the west, circle Kibo on the southern side, and then descend on the Mweka route in the south east. The variety is hard to beat. Machame is considered the most scenic Mount Kilimanjaro climbing route.

For that reason the Machame route has become the most popular climb route on Kilimanjaro. The advantage of that is that prices have dropped and you can find many budget operators on it. The disadvantage is that the Machame route is very crowded.

If you are confident in your ability to hike in difficult terrain for days in a row and like camping and nature, but money is very tight, then Machame may be the Kilimanjaro climb route of choice for you. The down side is that you will have to put up with the crowds.

The Rongai Route

The six day version of the Rongai route is the route of choice for those looking for an easy climb with excellent success rates, but away from the crowds. This Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing route comes with great scenery and a wilderness feel to it. It is slightly more expensive.

The Rongai route is the only climb route that approaches Kilimanjaro from the north. The descent is in the south-east via the Marangu route, so you get to see both sides of the mountain.

Because the climb starts from the North there is an extra transport cost which makes a Rongai operators who use this route .

The Rongai route has a reputation of being less scenic, but even if there is not quite as much variety as on Machame, it is still a spectacular route, especially on the later days. The camp beneath Mawenzi Peak is one of the most scenic on the mountain.

Rongai is also one of the routes where seeing wildlife on Kilimanjaro is still possible.

The Rongai climb has the same easy, gradual climb profile as the Marangu route. It rises very steadily; there aren’t any steep climbs involved, no major ups and downs.

However, the camps are staggered a lot better than on Marangu. On your last day before the summit attempt you only ascend a few hundred metres, and you have all afternoon to rest and acclimatize.

With a good tour operator you have an 80 – 90% chance to make it to the crater rim, and 70 – 80% will make it to Uhuru Peak.

With some trekking experience your chances to make it to the summit could be as good as 90%. The remaining 10% come down to weather, individual preparation, individual altitude tolerance and unforeseen mishaps.

The Rongai route has another important advantage: the northern side of Kilimanjaro is a lot drier than the other side. Your chances NOT to get soaked on the first days are excellent. Especially if you climb Kilimanjaro during one of the wetter periods of the year, using Rongai route makes a lot of sense.

The Shira Route

The Shira route approaches Kilimanjaro from the west and then joins the Machame route, thus everything that has been said about the Machame climb route also applies to the Shira route.

There are several variations to the Shira route. It can be done in six days but most operators also offer a longer version of it. A really good operator will also time their departure and stagger their camps in a way that avoids the heaviest traffic on the Machame trail.

However the variation, the staggering and the added transport cost can make Shira a more expensive option.

The first day on the Shira route is different to other climb routes: It follows a four wheel drive route. So you either walk on the road for most of the day (not very attractive) or you opt to drive as far as possible.

The latter not only means you skip the first stage of the climb, the rainforest zone. It also means that you catapult your body to a height of over 3500 m/11500 ft without time for proper acclimatization. If you live at low altitude near sea level and you only flew into Tanzania the day before, this may hurt.

Overall, Shira has excellent success rates if the schedule involves a night at Karanga Valley. This will make for a short and easy day before the summit day. However, the good success rate is partly due to the operators on this route being higher level than on the more crowded routes.

Like the Machame route, the Shira route is for people who are confident in their ability to hike in difficult terrain and camp out for extended periods. It has less traffic but it is a more expensive option. You should also be confident about the way you will react to the altitude on the first day.

The Lemosho Route

Like the Shira route, the Lemosho route approaches Kilimanjaro from the west and then joins the Machame route. Hence everything that has been said about the Machame climb route also applies to the Lemosho route.

The first two days on the Lemosho route take you through beautiful and very remote rainforest, with good chances of seeing wildlife. The start of the trail is also known as the Lemosho Glades.

Lemosho is usually a longer trek, seven or eight days, and there are many variations of it. Which one you take depends on the operator. A really good operator will also time their departure and stagger their camps in a way that avoids the heaviest traffic on the Machame trail.

The length, the remoteness and the added transport cost makes Lemosho a rather expensive option. However, the longer itinerary and the fact that there are no budget operators, you can’t do this route Kilimanjaro climb on a budget. This lead to excellent success rates on this route and it has become quite a popular one.

It is a route for people who are confident in their ability to hike in difficult terrain and camp out for extended periods. This is for those who want a superb wilderness experience and for whom cost is not the main consideration.

The Umbwe Route

The Umbwe route is not a technical route, but it is a very direct, very steep, very tough, and in parts very exposed route. This Mount Kilimanjaro climbing route joins the Machame route near the Barranco Camp on the second night.

On the other routes Barranco Camp is reached on the third or fourth night. Goes to show how much steeper Umbwe is…

Parts of the trail on the first day are so steep, they can only be negotiated because the tree roots provide something like steps. The tree roots also serve as handle bars to haul you up where needed…

The second day is also steep and uphill all the way. The exposed ridge is not for people uncomfortable at heights… And have a guess why the “Rope Rock” (Jiwe Kamba) is called “Rope Rock”…

This is the most difficult and demanding of all Kilimanjaro climb routes. Don’t even think about it unless you have experience climbing mountains.

Having said that, it is a spectacular Mount Kilimanjaro climbing route and worth trying!
March 5, 2021
Are You Fit to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro?
Climbing Kilimanjaro is graded strenuous and you should be in good physical fitness. You may need to have experience of multi-day trekking or walking trips prior to undertaking a Kilimanjaro climb.

Most days on climbing Mount Kilimanjaro involve 4 – 7 hours of walking at altitude and the summit day is very strenuous with most people walking for between 14 – 18 hours. Even for fit people, the effects of altitude can make the climb very tough.

The most challenging day of your Kilimanjaro Climb, regardless of which Kilimanjaro route you choose, will be the summit day. Because the time for acclimatization is limited most people will suffer from mild Acute Mountain Sickness. This may combine with a very long day of walking will make it one of the toughest days of your life.

The trails on Kilimanjaro are generally clear and well maintained, although they can be slippery lower down and, you will be walking over shale closer to the summit. The Barranco Wall on the Machame and Lemosho routes involves an easy scramble for 1.5 hours and the final climb to the summit is on loose scree and rock and can be snowy/ icy.

The climb is a hike so no specialist climbing skills are necessary. You must have done extensive hill-walking or aerobic exercise in the run-up to your Kilimanjaro Climb. If you do not currently enjoy a good level of fitness it may take many months of training to reach a suitable level of fitness to enjoy the walk.

It is important to start slowly and gradually increase your fitness. Try to exercise for between 30 and 45 minutes three times per week (walking, running, cycling or swimming) and go for long walks on the weekends which should include some hills.

Where to Start From Before Kilimanjaro Climbing

You must consult your doctor prior to embarking on a fitness program for Mount Kilimanjaro. What may make you not undertake your Mount Kilimanjaro climb?
- Has your doctor ever told you that you have a heart condition?
- Have you had any pains in your chest or heart?
- Do you frequently lose your balance, feel faint or have spells of severe dizziness?
- Has your doctor has ever said that your blood pressure is too high?
- Do you have a bone or joint problem that could be made worse by a change in your physical activity?
- Are you taking any prescription medications, such as those for heart problems, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes?
- Do you know of any other reason why you should not engage in physical activity?
- Are you pregnant?
How to Prepare for Your Mount Kilimanjaro Climb

Many people who are interested in hiking Mount Kilimanjaro are probably relatively fit. Training for at least two months before the climb, even if you’re in good shape, is recommended.

If you’re a little out of shape, start earlier. If you’re in great shape, keep training and focus on increasing duration (not intensity).

With training 6 months before the climb and you will hardly feel muscle soreness or joint achiness on the mountain. While summit night is physically and mentally draining and your endurance will be put to the test, your body has to be prepared.

We recommends training for a minimum of 12 weeks, with hiking being the basis of your training.

If you live by mountains, practice both uphill and downhill hiking a couple times a week when possible. If you live in places devoid of mountains and hills, use long walks on the beach or any other uneven ground as your closest substitute.

Don’t forget to incorporate some cardio into your training. Regularly engaging in aerobic exercises strengthens your cardiovascular system, which in turn will help your body efficiently process less oxygen.

You should aim to do at least a couple of long hikes or walks that span 6-7 hours long on back-to-back days as part of your preparation. Stair climbing, lots of walking, and other exercises for 30-45 minutes 3 times per week are all great ways to help you be in the shape you need to succeed.

Not only is hiking Kilimanjaro easier when you have trained for it, but studies have also shown that you are less likely to struggle with the elevation gain and therefore, less likely to have problems with Acute Mountain Sickness.

The altitude presents the biggest challenge for most climbers. High altitudes may diminish your appetite; disrupt your sleep, cause headaches, dizziness, and even nausea.

Altitude sickness doesn’t discriminate and even the fittest person may have to be rushed back down. However, effectively preparing your body for the difficulties on the mountain will maximize your likelihood of making it to the top and increase your overall enjoyment along the way.

Pre-climbing training will build your confidence and help you maintain a strong mental state when the hardships of Kilimanjaro arise.

Don’t Forget to Your Pack and Shoes

While you train do not forget to hike or walk with the backpack you plan on wearing on Kilimanjaro. Put everything you plan on bringing with you inside your pack to get used to the weight. Your backpack on the mountain shouldn’t weigh more than 15 pounds.

Your bag will definitely be lighter on summit night than it had been on the prior days. It will however feel significantly heavier at high altitude. You will need a backpack that distributes weight properly on your body with waist and chest straps. It should have a secure fit so it’s not moving around.

Also as you train, wear the shoes you will be using on the mountain during your training to break them in. Comfort is key to a great Mount Kilimanjaro climbing. If your shoes cause blisters or other issues, find a pair that fits better.

In Conclusion

Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro is challenging, but very doable, even for the common person. By preparing your body you give yourself the best chance to conquer the rooftop of Africa.

Don’t be intimidated by its height or by other people’s tales of grit. It’s not as hard as you imagine. One step at a time is all you need to do at any given moment to keep making progress. Use the advice above to train effectively and adequately and your team will take you the rest of the way.
March 5, 2021
Kilimanjaro Records That You Did not Know

These are Kilimanjaro records that you may have not known about Mount Kilimanjaro, from the fastest ascend to descend to the youngest and the oldest to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

Fastest ascent of Kilimanjaro

On August 13, 2014, Swiss mountain runner Karl Egloff ran to the 5895m summit in 4 hours and 56 minutes, thereby beating the previous ascent-only record of Spanish runner Kilian Jornet, set in 2010.

Fastest ascent and descent

That’s not the end of the story, however, for Karl then trotted back down to the gate in a total time of 6 hours 42 minutes and 24 seconds.

Fastest ascent and descent (unaided)

A previous holder of the record for the fastest ascent and descent, Simon Mtuy of Tanzania, still holds one record. On the 22 February 2006 he climbed from Umbwe Gate to the summit and back in 9 hours 19 minutes. In doing so, he achieved the fastest ever unaided ascent and descent. By unaided, they mean that he carried his own food, water and clothing.

This despite suffering from a nasty bout of diarrhea, as well as taking a three-minute break at the top to video himself, plus two further breaks to vomit!

Simon runs the Summit Expeditions and Nomadic Experience trekking agency in Moshi, was there to greet Kilian as he finished his record-breaking feat (and took the record from Simon) – proving he is a gentleman as well as an extraordinary athlete!

Fastest Female Ascent and Descent

Danish athlete Kristina Schou Madsen reached the summit of Kilimanjaro via the Mweka Route- and descended on the same route – in a speedy 6 hours, 52 minutes and 54 seconds. Kristina set the time on February 23rd, 2018.

Youngest person to reach the summit

On 22 October 2018 Coaltan Tanner, from Albuquerque, New Mexico, reached the summit of Kilimanjaro aged just 6 years, 1 month and 4 days. In doing so, he broke one of the most enduring (and disputed) records on the mountain by becoming the youngest person ever to reach the summit unaided. (By unaided, we mean that Coaltan was not carried at any time during the trek and walked the entire way from gate to summit.)

The first recognized holder of this record was Keats Boyd, who back in January 2008 successfully hauled his seven-year-old body up to the summit of Africa’s highest mountain. That record stood for a decade until 2018 Cash Callahan, also aged seven (or 2824 days to be precise), also climbed unaided to the summit. Unfortunately, nobody could trace Keats to find out when his birthday was, and as a result nobody was certain which of them was actually the younger when they reached the top.

Thankfully, Coaltan’s achievement means we now have a new – and undisputed – record holder.

The following year, Ashleen Mandrik, from near Brighton, climbed to the summit aged just six. That climb has yet to be ratified by the Guinness Book of World Records, however; showing a refreshing lack of interest in having a record-breaking child, her mum, Victoria, did not contact them until after they had completed the climb, and thus it is currently uncertain whether Ashleen will be officially recognized as the youngest female ever to climb to the summit.

If she isn’t, and her claims that she got to the top unaided can’t be verified by the authorities, then the record will remain with Montannah Kenney, of Austin, Texas. Montannah was aged just 7 years old – 2865 days to be precise – when she made it all the way to Uhuru Peak.

The youngest person – or, rather – people to climb Kilimanjaro and who were above the minimum age were the Loynd twins, Alex and Alan, who achieved the summit on the 24 June 2019 on their tenth birthday.

Oldest person to reach the summit

Perhaps surprisingly, this is the record that has changed hands most frequently over the past few years. In July 2019 Anne Lorimor, from Phoenix, Arizona, reached the summit aged 89.

This was not Anne’s first successful climb to Uhuru Peak: four years earlier, in August 2015, she had climbed with her niece and nephew to the summit aged 85.

Back then, Anne’s Mount Kilimanjaro climb had earned her the record for the oldest woman to reach the top. But on October 29th of that year, Russian octogenarian Angela Vorobeva took the popular Machame Route to the top aged 86 years, 267 days. (Impressive, but it’s fair to say that it’s not the toughest challenge that Ms Vorobeva has faced, having survived of the Siege of Leningrad in 1944!).

Ms Vorobeva held the title of the oldest person to climb to the top until July 20th 2017, when Dr Fred Distelhorst, a retired orthodontist from Vail, Colorado, reached the summit at the age of 88. Fred held the record for two years until Anne, spurred on by the fact that she’d lost her record, launched her latest record-breaking expedition.

Even prior to 2015, the record had changed hands frequently. On 2nd October 2014, Robert Wheeler, from the USA, reached the summit after five days of trekking aged 85 years 201 days. His climb thus trumped Martin and Esther Kafer, from Vancouver, who reached the summit in September 2012 aged 85 and 84 respectively.

Esther was just a year older than Bernice Buum, who reached the summit aged 83 in September 2010; while Martin’s achievement piped those of farmer Richard Byerley from Washington, USA, who in October 2011 reached the summit of Africa’s highest mountain at the ripe old age of 84 years and 71 days – and who in turn had eclipsed British granddad George Solt, a retired professor from Olney, Buckinghamshire, who the previous summer had summited at the age of 82.

March 5, 2021
How Hard is Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

So how hard is climbing Mount Kilimanjaro? Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest point in Africa. The roof of Africa as it is called stands at 19,341 feet. Despite being the highest free standing mountain in the world, it’s just a “walk up.” There is no technical climbing required. The secret however is in the preparation.

To climb Mount Kilimanjaro is a challenge and if you’re new to trekking, camping, living outdoors, or high altitude then you may find it tough. The specific challenges are mainly due to the altitude, your attitude and fitness but with the correct preparation and a good guide team, then the vast majority of people will successfully summit.

Most hill walkers and trekkers are fit enough to climb Kilimanjaro, but it must be approached in the correct manner. You must have a good guide and support team to ensure that you have the correct equipment, are well rested, fed and guided.

This ensures that by the time you reach the high camp, from where you’ll launch your summit bid, you’ll be in good health, well acclimatized to the lower levels of oxygen in the air, hydrated and full of energy.

In general, if you can easily walk 6 – 7 hours a day over undulating ground, for several days in a row at home, then you should be in good stead to tackle Kilimanjaro.

Factors that will Determine How Hard Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro Will Be

The number of Days

Climbing mount Kilimanjaro can take anywhere from 5 to 10 days depending on the route and how many days you want to spend each route days can be extended.

Short route for 5 days are very difficult as they have less than 40% summit success rate while longer routes from 8 days have a 90% summit success rate.

The Route

There are 6 Mount Kilimanjaro climbing route. Each route has its own different landscape, advantages and disadvantages.

While route like umbwe route are left for experienced mountain climbers some route are much easier for normal tourist to climb up mt Kilimanjaro

Acclimatization

Acclimatization is the process or result of becoming accustomed to a new climate or new conditions. Each route has different in acclimatization days. The Marangu route in its 5 days and machame route 6 days have no acclimatization day.

All other routes have an extra day for acclimatizing in order to increase your chance of summiting

The Weather

Weather is a very important factor which can make your trek more difficult or less difficult. A good weather summer time it is less difficult to climb Mount Kilimanjaro but during the rainy season it is more difficult to climb mount Kilimanjaro and it can also be deadly if you are wet up mount Kilimanjaro

Preparation

How well prepared are you for your Kilimanjaro trek that another important question. You should be well prepared before Mount Kilimanjaro climb.

Fitness Level

It’s important to climb mount Kilimanjaro during the times when you are most fit in terms of health, You should also be physically fit in order to climb mount Kilimanjaro. How to train for Mount Kilimanjaro full details

Tour Operator or Agency

Many people have been asking how it relates to difficulty right. Yes it is a factor some operate use less porter and only the guide with no assistant guide well this means you will first have a larger luggage to carry,

Two, if your guide misses out on the symptoms of mountain sickness and does not give you an extra day for acclimatising you will get acute mountain sickness. That may be the end your trek since you will have to descent and exit the mount

Trekking Straight Up

Mount Kilimanjaro is difficult to climb because it takes you straight up to high altitudes in a very short period of time so your body does not get enough time to acclimatize.

You can choose longer routes and more days to for acclimatization this will improve your chances of summit success.

Its very Cold

Yes cold contributes in difficultly, People who climb Mount Kilimanjaro during winter have lower summit success rate than people who trek Mount Kilimanjaro during summer time.

It can get very cold on top of Mount Kilimanjaro so you should have the right clothes. See clothes for Mount Kilimanjaro

Many Ups and Downs

Trekking mount Kilimanjaro has many ups and down, many hills, ridges, valley and even the baranco wall. The trek is not always about going up the mountain at some points your will be descend. Many camps are at low points in order to follow the golden rule of acclimatization which is walk high sleep low.

Summit Success Rate

Another factor we use to determine how hard is it to climb mount Kilimanjaro is the summit success rate with an average of 52% it is fairly hard to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

Did you carry oxygen?

Oxygen is important and makes your Kilimanjaro climb a bit easier because it is used in a higher elevation on the mountain to give your muscles a bit more energy during the climb also to reduce risk of mountain sickness.

Therefore is very crucial having oxygen available to treat climbers who have developed moderate or severe mountain sickness for the Emergency purpose. Without it your Kilimanjaro Climb gets harder.

The pace of your group

This important thing to know is pace of you are climbing up the mountain. Slow pace makes your Kilimanjaro climb easier than running up the mountain.

This is very important and most guides will manage the pace of the group and balance of maintaining lowest heart rates which is essential to a successful Climb a good pace on Mountain.

The luggage you carry

Climbing up Mount Kilimanjaro with Luggage can be extremely difficult. You need a minimum of 4 porter. They also should carry a maximum of 20 kg

Whilst clients or climbers may need to have at most 10 kg of their luggage going up, during the higher altitude you will not carry anything.

The food you eat

Having a good dish is very important. You should not suffer from diarrhea or stomach ache as it can make your climb extremely hard.

We will offer you soup, breads, salads, rice, pastas, potatoes, fried chicken, meat/beef, green vegetables, fruit with custard, coffee, tea and chocolate.

The number of people in the group,

The number of people in a group can also make your climb a bit harder or bit easier. Maximum of 10 people per group is the best so as you can get the one on one support you need with your guide and assistant guide.

The ultimate determinant of how hard climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is will be your attitude. With the right attitude, you will conquer the roof of Africa with ease. Without the right attitude, your climb is doomed to fail.

March 4, 2021
How difficult is gorilla trekking in Rwanda?

How difficult is gorilla trekking in Rwanda?

Some of the frequently asked question asked by our clients is how difficult gorilla trekking in Rwanda is. The terrain is full of up and down hills. You must be able and willing to hike in rough terrain and in any weather to see Mountain Gorillas in the wild.

However, many older people who don’t think of themselves as hikers or adventurers can successfully visit the gorillas. Personal assistants can be hired to carry your daypack and assist you in difficult areas. The local guides will work to make it as easy as possible for you to track and photograph the Mountain Gorillas.

We have had numerous clients in their 70’s trekking gorillas in Rwanda with success. But many people return very exhausted, muddy and sore if they are not used to vigorous hiking.

Altitude sickness is not usually a problem, nor is insects. You will want a pair of gloves and clothing that protects your arms and legs from thorns and nettles. Good balance is helpful in Gorilla trekking as trails may be slippery.

So How Difficult is Trekking Gorilla in Rwanda

This is one of the most frequently asked questions about gorilla tracking in Rwanda. And it is also perhaps the most difficult to answer. So many variables are involved, and if they all conspire against you, you could be in for a genuinely exhausting outing (indeed on rare occasions, the guides have had to carry tourists down). On the other hand, if everything is not in your favor, the excursion will be little more demanding than the proverbial stroll in the park.

The trek to see the gorillas has two distinct phases. The first is the hike from the closest car park to the forest and national park boundary, which usually takes 30-60 minutes depending on the speed of the party and the group they are visiting.

The second is trek into the forest in search of the gorillas, which will usually have been located by the advance trackers by the time reach the forest edge.

The first part of the trek is predictable, and it is usually quite flat and undemanding unless you are going to the Susa (Susa-A), which involves a longer and steeper ascent.

The second part is more difficult to predict, as it will depend on the exact location of the gorillas on the day, and on the steepness of the terrain en route.

Other Factors Determining the Difficulty

Other factors in determining how tough it will be include the density of the vegetation (bending, crawling through the jungle can be tiring especially if you have to dodge vicious nettles) and whether it has rained recently, in which case everything will be muddier and quite slippery underfoot.

At risk of stating the obvious, age and fitness levels are key factors in how difficult the hike will feel. Susa Group aside, moderately fit people under the age of 40 seldom feel any significant strain, but a high proportion of trackers are in their 50s or 60s, in which case the hike might be something tougher.

As one trekker has previously commented in the Bradt Guide (Rwanda) – ‘We think you underestimate how strenuous the gorilla trip is. We are both 61 but fit and well, bicycle to work each day , and still we had to take regular breaks due to problems with breathing’.

That said, while many older travelers do find the track quite demanding, it is very unusual that they are so daunted as to turn back.

An important factor in how difficult the hike will be is which group you are allocated. As a rule, the hike to the Susa Group is the most demanding (but also most rewarding, with more than 40 gorillas on show), while the Sabinyo Group is the most reliably straightforward to reach.

The hikes to Kwitonda, Hirwa and Group Thirteen are also usually quite undemanding, whereas the hikes to Amahoro Umubano Groups tend to be more difficult, but not as tough as the Susa Group.

Unfortunately, these things aren’t set in stone, and any group might be unusually demanding (or easy) to reach on a bad day. Furthermore, nobody can guarantee which group you will be allocated in advance. However the guides at Kinigi do make a conscious attempt to match individuals to the most suitable group, especially if they are asked to.

Generally the party for the Susa (Susa-A) consists of the lean-looking under-30s, while the opposite holds true for Sabinyo party.

Uneven Underfoot and High Altitude

Two further factors are uneven underfoot conditions and high altitude. Most visitors to Africa live in towns and cities where roads and sidewalks are paved, and parks are serviced by neatly footpaths, so they are unused to walking on the more irregular and seasonally slippery surfaces typical of the ascent paths and forest floor.

It will help enormously in this regard to wear strong waterproof shoes or hiking boots with a good tread and solid ankle support. Furthermore, if you think you might struggle in these conditions, there is a lot to be said for avoiding the rainy seasons, in particular March-May, when conditions can be dauntingly muddy.

Don’t underestimate the tiring effect of altitude. The trekking takes place at elevations of 2.500-3,000m above sea level, not high enough for altitude sickness to be a concern but sufficient to knock the breath out of anybody – no matter how fit – who has just flown in from a low altitude.

For this reason, visitors who are spending a while in Rwanda might think seriously about leaving their gorilla tracking until they’ve been in the country a week or so, and are better acclimatized.

Most of Rwanda lies above 1,500m, and much of the country is higher – a couple of days at Nyungwe, which lies above 2,000m, would be good preparation for the Virungas.

Likewise if you are coming from elsewhere in Africa, try to plan your itinerary so that you spend your pre-Rwanda days at medium to high altitude: for example, were you flying in from Kenya, a few days in Nairobi (2,300m) or even the Maasai Mara (1,600m) would be far better preparation than time at the coast.

What To Expect

Guides will generally offer you a walking stick at the start of the hike, and, even if you normally shun such props, it is worth taking up the offer to help support you on those slippery mountain paths.

If you have luggage, hire a porter too. Once on the trail, take it easy, and don’t be afraid to ask to stop for a few minutes whenever you feel tired. Drink plenty of water and carry some quick calories – biscuits and chocolate can both be bought at supermarkets in Ruhengeri.

The good news is that most people who track gorillas find the hike to be far less demanding than they expect, and 99% of cases, whatever exhaustion you might feel on the way up will vanish with the adrenalin charge that follows the first sighting of the silverback gorilla!

March 1, 2021
Rwanda Gorilla Permits

Rwanda Gorilla Permits

Rwanda gorilla permits are documents that are issued to allow client access to the mountain gorillas. You will have to present this document at the park headquarters on the trekking date upon arrival in the morning. You will be allocated a random gorilla family or gorilla group for your Rwanda gorilla trekking experience.

The next question will then be how much are gorilla permits in Rwanda? To be able to trek gorillas in Rwanda, you will have to part away with $1500 to buy a permit.

But where is Rwanda? This small country is located in central eastern Africa. It’s famously known as the land of a thousand hills and mountains. Rwanda together with Uganda and Congo make home to the last few endangered mountain gorillas. Rwanda gorillas can only be found in Volcanoes National Park in Musanze.

Volcanoes National Park Rwanda is not only home to mountain gorillas, It is also to five of the 8 Virunga Volcanoes. These mountains sit on the Virunga Conservation Area with Mount Karisimbi being the highest at an elevation of 4,507 meters above sea level.

Other mountains found in this park include Mountain Sabyinyo, Mountain Muhabura, Mountain Gahinga, and Mountain Bisoke.

Mountain gorillas freely roam within the foothills of these mountains. When you book a hike to one of these mountains, you may be lucky and end up seeing gorillas free even without buying permits for gorilla trekking in Rwanda. You are most likely to meet them on your way up just that you will not be allowed to spend any time around them.

Cost of Gorilla Permits in Rwanda

Among the 3 countries where the mountain gorillas exist, Rwanda gorilla trekking permit cost is the highest. This has made Rwanda an expensive gorilla trekking destination as a permit goes for $1500 compared to her neighbours.

In Uganda and Congo, gorilla permit costs $700 and $450 respectively. The cost of gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda doubled in 2017; from $750 each to $1500 each.

The gorilla permits in Rwanda should be bought in advance. It is recommended to be done like 3 months before the actual day of trekking. This is because they are on high demands and sold on the first-come-first-serve basis.

Rwanda gorilla permits can be obtained through a trusted travel agency or from the Rwanda development board. In case one is not able to trek 50% of the gorilla trekking fee will be refunded to tourists in case they show any sign of illness prior to their trekking experience.

Sick people are not allowed to trek gorillas because gorillas can easily get infected by human infectious diseases. This is a big threat to them as they lack the necessary immunities to fight diseases.

Check Online Availability of Permits

If you are looking to gorilla trekking in Rwanda, you can check online availability of Rwanda gorilla permits here. The online system shows accurate availability and will help you plan your Rwanda gorilla trip better. Our prices also include permit price and we do book the same for you once you book your Rwanda gorilla safari with us.

Please note that permits are sold on first come first serve basis hence, if you find only a few permits left for your date then you ought to purchase them online or immediately request a tour operator to do it for you.

For the case of gorilla trekking, all the people intending to trek on that particular day are required to report to Kinigi park headquarters by 7:00 am in the morning. This is in time for a short briefing session before making their way into the forests to trek gorillas.

Only persons of 15 years of age and above will be allowed to trek mountain gorillas. After obtaining a Rwanda gorilla permit, you will be assigned to a random mountain gorilla group.

The allocation process is absolutely random and you cannot influence it in any way. You can now carry the necessary gorilla trekking equipment with you and follow the set gorilla trekking rules as you make your way to the gorillas.

How to book gorilla permits of Rwanda

Unlike other gorilla trekking countries, you can buy gorilla trekking permits for Rwanda online through the Irembo Portal. The system allows you to pay by credit card and not go through any tour operator.

After purchase, you are sent an email as a reference that you will have to present at the park offices the morning you track. After presenting your reference, the park wardens will verify its validity before your gorilla permit is printed on a paper.

The other alternative is going through a tour and travel operator and have them organize everything for you including accommodation, transportation, meals and more. This is the best option and we do offer this kind of service. You can see some of our Rwanda safari packages for a complete travel plan.

Looking for Discounted Gorilla Trekking Permits

Yes there is availability for discounted gorilla permits in Rwanda. This is only possible if you are visiting all the three Rwanda national parks; Volcanoes, Akagera, and Nyungwe Forest National Parks, you will pay $1100 instead of $1500.

However, you have to present proof that you are visiting the other two parks in Rwanda besides Volcanoes. For Akagera, you can show proof of accommodation booking or park entrance and for Nyungwe you have to show your Chimpanzee trekking permit.

The best time to trek gorillas in Rwanda is during the dry seasons of June to September and December to February. If you are trekking in the rain season, you should endeavor to carry good hiking boots, raincoats, warm clothing, garden gloves, energy snacks and so much more. Tourists can hire porters to help them carry backpacks at a very cheap price.

March 1, 2021
Beat Uganda Gorilla Permit Price
Uganda is very well known for the great apes. The ‘Pearl of Africa’ as the country is often referred to is home to more than fifty percent of all the mountain gorillas in the jungle. Gorilla trekking is the major activity and there is an impending increase in gorilla trekking permit price of late.

Home to the Largest Population of Mountain Gorillas

Uganda shares the world’s largest primates population with other two neighboring countries. These are Rwanda to the South West and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west.

In this great lake country, the great apes can be found in the Bwindi Impenetrable Rainforest and the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These two parks are located on the south-werstern edge of Uganda around the virunga volcanoes.

The main tourism activity that takes quite a number of tourist to this two forests is Gorilla trekking in Uganda. Actually, Uganda safari is synonymous with gorilla trekking.

Uganda gorilla trekking is the hallmark of tourism in Uganda. However, due to the changes in government policies, rising conservation costs and demand, there will definitely be an increase in Uganda gorilla trekking permit prices.

Increase in Gorilla Trekking Permit Price

Rwanda made the changes in June 2017 and it is only a matter of time before Uganda followed suite. The increase in Rwanda gorilla trekking permit went up by one hundred percent from US $ 750 to US $ 1,500.

It is expected that Uganda may increase the gorilla trekking permit cost by US $ 400. This is a speculation as the official figure has not been given yet. Gorilla trekking permit are now at US $ 700 from the year 2019.

With such an increase expected, a much bigger dent will surely be done to many pockets. Planning and re-planning will definitely be necessary for those Planning for an African safari to Uganda.

Changes is African Safari Tour Plan

When the increase will be effected, many decisions will have to be done and many bucket lists redone. You do not need to cancel your gorilla trekking safari though because of the increase in gorilla trekking permit cost. There are steps if you take, the cost will e easily absorbed.

What you need to know is how to enjoy your Uganda gorilla safari trekking cheaply and counter the increase in gorilla trekking permit. Just follow the below and you will save a penny.

5 Ways to beat the Increase in Uganda Gorillas Permit Price
1. Join a Group on Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari
The major component of your African safari tour cost is the cost incurred on transportation. It takes nearly half of any safari cost and Uganda gorilla trekking safari is not an exception.

The fewer you are on a safari vehicle, the higher the cost is per person, Therefore, rather than using a customized safari vehicle for one or two people only, you are better off joining hands and traveling together in a group of four.

A group of six will be much cheaper as you will share the transport cost amongst yourselves. With this you may end up cutting down your overal cost by nearly 40%.

It would be easy to travel with people you know hence get to inquire among your friends relatives and/ or colleagues before you make a group inquiry with your tour operator. Otherwise, you will have to inquire with the tour operator if there is a group to join.

In the case og gorilla trekking, getting a group is normally hard. This is because of the reservation of gorilla permits.

There are only 8 people allowed to trek a gorilla family in a day. This means that you are better getting a people trekking the same family or in the same region.
1. Type of Vehicle to Use
Mainly there are two types of vehicles that are normally used for safari in Africa. There is the safari minivan that is normally cheaper to maintain and the Land cruiser. The latter is a fuel guzzler and quiet costly when it comes to operations and maintenance.

By going for a safari minivan you will be making some savings. Don’t worry about its ability to tackle the rough African terrain, they are customized for Africa and are 4 X 4.

They range from 6 seater to nine seater and come with open roof hood that can be used for game watching.

The two above vehicles work well if you are combining your gorilla trekking safari in Uganda with the big game. This is where game drives are involved.

In cases where you are only going on a gorilla trekking tour, you may opt for other 4 X 4 vehicle. We have had clients hiring 3 door Rav4 or 5 door short chasis land cruisers.

With Rav4 you are looking at cutting the transport cost with more than 45%. Un hooded land cruisers wil let you save up to 30% on your transportation costs.
1. Choice of Accommodation
Accommodation contributes another major part of your travel cost. However, this cannot be compared to the transport cost.

There are different types of accommodation that are in existence when on your Uganda gorilla trekking safari to Bwindi or Mgahinga National Parks.

The type of accommodation in the two gorilla parks vary from the extreme luxury like the Gorilla Forest Camp to the luxury like Trackers lodge.

We also have the mid – range to the budget like the bandas and camping and basic budget.

The basic camping is however rare as the vegetation here and the weather makes staying in them quite difficult.

For those who cold is their second name, one can come with his or her own tent and just pay for camping site and meals that can be as low as US $ 20 per person per night.

It is also important to know that you can get several great properties with great service at a good deal. Just do your research, ask around and you will get the info.
1. Travel in a Public Service Vehicle
This is for the more adventurers and who are willing to learn the ways of life of the locals, live among them and and interact with the locals.

Making use of public service vehicles will greatly reduce your costs as you may end up spending less than US $ 20 to and from Kampala when it is not festive seasons.

This is best if you will be trekking gorillas from the Kisoro side of Bwindi. This is because there are several buses to Kisoro that includes Swift, Trinity coaches, Post Bus and several others.

What you would need to do is get is a taxi from Kisoro to whichever tracking base you will be headed to. This would probably cost around $60.

If its on a market day and looking to more adventure, jump on the lorries heading there and you will probably have a ride of lifetime and a super save definitely.

You may also spend your day and overnight and organize for your next days transport to the briefing point. You need to be there by 0700 Hrs otherwise you will miss your trek.
1. Watch out for deals
Time and again you will get deals from different tour operators including your African Safari Tour Holiday Vacations expert.

They vary from special offers to last minute deals to trek Uganda gorillas. Be on the look out for such as they will let you travel at a discount and have an adventure of a lifetime.

Over the last 4 years the Uganda Wildlife Authority have been offering discounted gorilla permits in April and November. With this you could be looking at saving $100 per permit.

It is our hope that this offer will still run in 2018 to help you save on your next Uganda gorilla trekking safari tour.

Now that you know how to travel cheaply and counter the rise in Uganda gorilla permit prices, what are you waiting for? You can start by making that important inquiry now.
January 8, 2018
All You Need to Know About Uganda Safari

The major tourism attraction and climax of your Uganda safari tour must include the over 400 mountain gorillas in Bwindi. Uganda as a country has 10 National Parks mostly locates on the western side of the country. There are over 1000 bird species making Uganda a major birding destination. The country boasts of over 330 mammals and different primate species. This is your ultimate guide on African safaris in Uganda.

Uganda ‘The Pearl of Africa’

Aptly named the ‘Pearl of Africa’ Uganda is repossessing this gleam after a period of internal conflicts that ended in 1986. There isn’t many African safari country on the continent just as Uganda. This is a country that even stunned the ancient explorers. They were thrilled by her splendor, natural wonders and some of the friendliest and amazing people. This paved way for the first Uganda safari tourists. As modern means of travel became accessible to tourists Winston Churchill who had a Uganda safari tour and was thrilled by what he discovered thus rightfully naming it “The Pearl of Africa,” and that was even before tracking of mountain gorillas and chimpanzees.

Why Have a Uganda Safari Tour?

Uganda is located in East Africa and shares her borders with Kenya, Tanzania, Southern Sudan, D. R. Congo and Rwanda. This is one of the best African safari destination for any wildlife and bird viewing enthusiast. This is the home to more than half the endangered mountain gorillas in the wild. It is also the source of the Nile. Uganda has featured among the top destination in National Geographic and Lonely Planet. Uganda safari tours is not only about mountain gorilla trekking as there are more than 10 separate destinations. You can enjoy Uganda gorilla trekking safaris with a visit to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or the nearby Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for the ultimate gorilla trekking experience.

In Uganda you also have an opportunity to climb the ice capped Rwenzori Mountains. With more than 13 species of primates make chimpanzee tracking tour in Uganda a part of your itinerary. The Nile River gives you an opportunity to enjoy white water rafting when on Uganda safari tour. It also allows you to see the Murchison falls where it squeezes her eater through a 7 meter gorge as it falls 50 meters below. There is so much more including the beautiful and friendly people that is available to make your Uganda safari tour something to look forward to. Other scenic wonders on Uganda safari tour include savannahs, wildlife, lakes and rivers.

Who will be my African safari Tour Operator?

As any other country that has opened a free market, there are several African safari tour operators in Uganda. Some of them include Pearl of Africa Tours and Travel, Insight Safari Holidays, Crystal safaris, Kori Safaris, Kazinga tours, Wild Whispers Africa among others. Most of these safari companies offer wildlife and mountain gorilla trekking safaris in both Uganda and Rwanda. There are some that belong to a professional association such as Association of Uganda Tour Operators, Tourism Uganda, Africa Tour Operators and many others while others don’t. While many have advised on using safari operators that have a link to an association not all the best safari companies in Uganda belong to these or any association. You therefore got to do your research to get the best Uganda safari tour company

Why Should You Choose a Safari in Uganda?

Uganda has been described as the ‘Pearl of Africa’. This is because this East African landlocked country is gifted by nature. This wonderful country has a lot to offer to all the people who come to visit. From the biggest lake on the African continent and the second largest in the world, Lake Victoria that features intimate and heavenly islands to the snow peaked ‘Mountain of the Moon’, you can’t miss an activity to impress you while on Uganda safari tour. Lake Victoria will offer you an amazing place to cool off and relieve the memories of your African safari in Uganda as you watch the waters after a lengthy safari. You can relax under a tree on the sandy beaches along the equator and pleasure in weather with temperatures around 22 degrees Celsius throughout the year. It gives you the perfect weather for a holiday even in 2 rainy seasons.

The snow covered Rwenzori Mountains that standing over most of Western Uganda. Though it does not feature among the top 3 highest mountain in Africa, it is among the toughest African mountains to climb. It enjoys a surrounding of rainforests plus the jungles not seen in any other country within East African. Can you imagine fishing for the elusive Nile Perch that weighs up to 150 kilograms? That is the offer on the Nile just at the bottom of Murchison Falls. The Nile water bisects the Murchison Falls National Park into two giving you the best game drives in the largest of Uganda wildlife parks. Wherever you go the green vegetation offers a beautiful backdrop, this could be referred to as the “Evergreen Country” of Africa. A number of visitors have referred to it as Africa’s banana republic, not due to its kind of government but as a result of countless types of Bananas found in the country. Uganda cultivates more bananas than all the countries of the world countries besides India. Uganda has 506 protected forest reserves covering 6.3% of the total area in Uganda.

You cannot miss to have a taste of different fruit types while on Uganda safari tours. Get yourself the pineapple from Uganda which is unparalleled in flavor. Additionally you can eat the nice, juicy, mangoes, papaya which taste very nice fruity they are full of flavor and also don’t miss out on the Jack fruit, the nearest thing to honey in any fruit.

What to Expect On a Safari to Uganda?

Great Wildlife – from the amazing Mountain Gorillas and chimpanzees that occupy the Equatorial and the tropical rainforests to the 4 of the big five that are in most of Uganda wildlife parks. There are other wildlife living in their natural habitat all in a secure environment. You can also see the last of the big five in Ziwa sanctuary, where they are trying to restore the rhino population as they were cleared by 1985.Uganda has a recorded list of the 330 mammal list in Uganda. In the list 7 are endangered, 2 vulnerable and 17 near threatened. Besides the wild animals such as the lions, zebras, giraffe, rhino, buffalo and others, you can decide to visit the Murchison Falls, or take on white water rafting on the Nile, visit cultural and historic sites or take on bungee jumping and so much more on your adventure trails. There is so much to see and do while on Uganda safaris. This is probably one of the biodiversity endowed of the African country. Uganda has 2 season that runs in line with the long and the short rainy seasons. Among the cash crops here are coffee in plenty and the best mountain cultivated Arabica beans, as well plenty of Robusta beans offer the basis for the majority of instantaneous coffee plus cola drinks in the western world.

Accommodation on a Ugandan Safari Tour?

When booking a safari to Uganda one of the most important question that features in most guests is the type of accommodation they would get in Uganda. It is good to put this to rest today as Uganda as any other destination offers a range of accommodation to suite any budget. From the five star hotels in Kampala to budget camping facilities in the National Parks in Uganda, one has a range of choices when it comes to accommodation here. You can opt to reside in lodges, or tented camps set in traditional style, or the beautiful bandas, enjoy the delicious meals delicately prepared by their professional chefs. In Kampala before you set off for your safari, you can check in at Serena Hotel Kampala, Cassia Lodge and so many more.

In every attraction location you will find Uganda safari lodge accommodation that suits your very needs. In Bwindi, you will find the luxury Mahogany Springs, Clouds Gorilla Mountain Lodge and Gorilla Forest Camp. In Murchison Falls, you will find the Chobe Safaris Lodge, Paraa safari Lodge, Nile river resort, Baker’s Lodge among others. Mweya Safari Lodge is a good option for visitors to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Other accommodation facilities here include Enganzi Lodge, Kingfisher Kichwamba Safari Lodge, Simba Lodge among others. In Buhoma alone where Uganda gorilla trekking takes place, there are 15 accommodation options include Volcanoes safari lodge, Gorilla Safari Lodge, Engangi Lodge, Silver back lodge, l. Kitandara Tented Camps, Gorilla Valley View Resort, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Buhoma Community rest camp and many more.

Best Time for African safari Tour in Uganda?

Another major question that comes to most people looking for an African safari tour in Uganda is when the best time for an African safari tour to Uganda is. Well, the answer is simple! You can visit Uganda anytime of the year! Uganda lying on the Equator is a warm and there is tropical climate here. Because of the seasonality, the difference could be the cost of safari in Uganda. Most people prefer the dry seasons when the sun is not hot and the rains have ceased. This is why Uganda safari prices are usually higher during the peak season. The average temperatures are in forested area is at 21.5°C and when they drop, it’s usually to a minimum of 12°C. There are two rainy seasons that include the long rains from April to May and the short rains in November and early December. However, as a result of the climatic changes in the world, the patterns have become quite unpredictable. The rains are also not so bad to stop you from traveling and enjoying your safari in Uganda. The rainy seasons act as the low seasons for mountain gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda. In April, May and November, you will get a discount on every gorilla permit for trekking during these periods. The same will apply to lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks as they reduce their accommodation rates. We trust that you now realize that this amazing country ‘the Pearl of Africa’ as it is justifiably named is not just a spectacular land, but a place worth your time. Uganda is among the 13 countries that have the equator running through from east to the west, with the magnificent Rift Valley creating its mark from the South to the North and also the source of Nile River here that flows through Uganda northward to the Mediterranean Sea. June, July and August, December, January and Feb are the best months for game viewing in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks.

How Much Does a Uganda Safari Cost?

Pricing is one of the major factor of any African safari tour. It would therefore be good to have an understanding of your Uganda safari price. Let us try to do some costing together, right? A gorilla permit during the high season costs US $ 600 per person in Uganda. Accommodation ranges from 50 to 900 per person sharing depending on the Uganda safari lodge you choose. Your cost of transport runs between US $ 200 – US $ 350 per vehicle per day depending on the vehicle type. Therefore a rough estimate for a simple 3 day Uganda gorilla trekking safari to Bwindi should cost about $ 1200 per person sharing. This is when using a mid-range lodge in Bwindi. If you are looking at a budget gorilla trekking Uganda safari then your costs will be slightly below US $ 1000 per person sharing and that should be the cheapest. Other destinations such as Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks could cost as low as US $ 400 per person sharing for budget safari travelers and US $ 700 per person sharing for mid-range accommodation. There are luxury safaris that can be undertaken in Uganda parks, you can also enjoy fly in fly out safaris in Uganda to add color and save time while on Uganda safari tour though this will come at a cost. If you are to travel with other people, the price is incredibly reduced as you get to share the vehicle cost. Remember that the vehicle takes nearly half of the total safari cost. If they are 2 of you, it’s possible to save over $ 400 on a 3 day trip compared to being alone.

Sample Uganda Safari Packages

If you are looking into traveling to Africa and you would like to have a look at some Uganda safari Packages, there are several than you can go through depending on your availability, interest and budget. If you are looking for short safaris because of time, then a 3 – 5 days safari in Uganda would do. There are those who have time and can have a 14 days best of Uganda safari that covers most of the parks within Uganda. For those looking for adventure, a Uganda gorilla trekking safari would be the best offer. They range from 3 to 14 or more days. The safaris in Uganda can also be tailor made to suite your desires and ambition. You can combine destinations or travel to more than one country within East Africa and we will be glad to help come up with a good package for you.

What Makes Uganda Different from any other African safari Destination?

Uganda unlike any other major African safari destination is unique and distinct in a special way. The country unlike any other country in Africa hidden to many is symbolic, most impressive scenic wonders. They include the significant River Nile, the very powerful waterfall – the Murchison Falls, the highest Mountain Range of the Mt. Rwenzori – the Mountains of the Moon, the Virunga Volcanoes among the most wonderful in Africa with Lake Bunyonyi plus Lake Mutanda. You will find sandy tropical beach Islands within the waters of the second largest fresh water lake in the world, the Lake Victoria. There is also the endangered Mountain Gorillas and closest cousin, the impressive Chimpanzees being the lead primates in Ugandan forests. This is the true representation of African wilderness all compacted into a tiny nation. Uganda is where the Western Jungle meets the Eastern savannah grasslands.

Are Ugandans Friendly?

It is believed that Uganda has one of Africa’s Friendliest people! The people welcomes all visitors from all over the world to come and explore this amazing country in accordance with the African Economist Magazine, the ancient explore Winston Churchill published in it after his trip back in 1907. He said that above all, the people of Uganda are very different from everything, and indeed they are. People who visit the country find it among the friendliest countries, gifted with a number of friendly people in Africa. The so much hyped gay bill has portrayed Uganda as unsafe, but that is majorly a press fabrication as they tend to follow a particular norm. You may also ask yourself if you can tip for the service you receive and the answer is a big yes of course though there is no definite amount of money as it is at your discretion. 10 dollars and above should be okay per person per day for a driver guide and 10% of the cost of service in restaurants.

What to Wear on Safari in Uganda?

The conducive tropical climatic conditions prevailing within Uganda is another reason why the country is among the must visit destinations on the African continent. It experiences a temperate climate which makes it possible to enjoy the various safari activities all year round such as game drives, birds watching and gorilla tracking. With this begs the question ‘What to wear on safari in Uganda? Be sure to take the right safari clothing suitable for an African safari, be it a Tanzania safari adventure or Kenya safari tour holidays.

Ensure that you have appropriate clothing especially for women considering the variation. You also want to ensure that everything you buy is culturally sensitive and also weather appropriate. The main thing is to be comfortable and on the whole as long as you are sensible you are unlikely to offend. Just remember, again, as you go through your African safari packing list to Uganda that this country is not a very conservative dressing style country, and peeps tend to mind their own business most of the time. Generally, it is not culturally appropriate for women to show their upper thighs. So skirts/dresses not be so much above the knee, capris, or long pants are your best bet. On top it doesn’t really matter how covered you are for the sake of modesty – you would mostly be considering protection from the sun. With long skirts – be careful that they are not too thick of material. Some skirts people bring are not nearly as ideal as you would imagine, because you can get really hot wearing them. With long pants – consider if they drag/touch the ground. The red dirt will get on anything that it touches, to be forewarned is to be forearmed so don’t say I dint tell you!

I would recommend a pair of chacos to wear around the compound or another sturdy walking sandal for daily use. However, for mountain gorilla trekking, be sure you have some good (and broken in) hiking boots. They don’t call it Bwindi an impenetrable forest for nothing. Also for gorilla trekking consider long water proof pants/trousers and tall socks that you can tuck your pants in to, this works totally great. Though some trackers get fancy hiking gear that includes some sort or sleeve type thing that goes over the pants from the knee to the shoe and prevents ants from getting in. Breathable long sleeve button down shirts are ideal

Uganda Safari Destinations

It is therefore without a doubt just as Winston Churchill described in 1907 that Uganda is the ‘Pearl of Africa’ This is not only as a result of the friendly people he met but also as the country is unfathomable gifted by nature. Uganda is a landlocked country with the equator running across it. The country is blessed with fertile grounds, fine parks with plentiful wildlife, an attractive countryside with mammoth mountain ranges, rivers, lakes and waterfalls thus giving purpose to your Uganda safari tour. Safaris in Uganda can be such a spoiler from the many options you have to explore. Uganda gorilla trekking exploration is a must go to once you arrive here. The beautiful vegetation and scenery will just leave you in awe. It is a very common occurrence yet breathe taking view to find Mountain gorillas and chimpanzees interacting in their natural habitat; the closeness of their activities and genetical make up to human activities is just an affirmation of their close resemblance to human life. Whether your interests are Chimpanzees, gorilla safari, game viewing, bird viewing, primates, white water rafting, mountain climbing, spot fishing, bungee jumping or cultural tours, Uganda has got you covered and still holds most of Africa most prized secrets.

Where to go while on a safari in Uganda?

Murchison Falls National Park

The park falls under the greater Murchison Falls Conservation Area (MFCA) that comprises of Bugungu and Karuma Falls Wildlife Reserves. This is where the Nile explodes through a narrow gorge and cascades down to become a placid river whose banks are thronged with hippos and crocodiles, waterbucks and buffaloes. The vegetation is characterized by savannah, riverine forest and woodland. Wildlife includes lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, hartebeests, oribis, Uganda kob, chimpanzees, and many bird species. It is the largest conservation area in Uganda covering an area of over 3,840km. The park derives its name from its famous waterfall; the Murchison falls. These falls are formed when the Victoria Nile powerfully forces its way through a narrow cleft as it thrusts 43m down with a thunderous roar. These falls form the center piece and this is the most visited falls in Uganda.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is understandably Uganda’s most popular tourist destination. It is a destination of choice for many on Uganda safari tour. The park’s diverse ecosystems includes sprawling savanna, shady, humid forests, sparkling lakes and fertile wetlands. This make Queen Elizabeth National Park the ideal habitat for classic big game. The park has ten primate species including chimpanzees and over 600 species of birds. It is set against the backdrop of the jagged Rwenzori Mountains with magnificent vistas that include dozens of enormous craters carved dramatically into rolling green hills. The park enjoys panoramic views of the Kazinga Channel with its banks lined with hippos, buffalo and elephants, and the endless Ishasha plains, whose fig trees hide lions ready to pounce on herds of unsuspecting Uganda kob. As well as its outstanding wildlife attractions, Queen Elizabeth National Park has a fascinating cultural history. There are many opportunities for visitors on Uganda safari tour to meet the local communities and enjoy storytelling, dance, music and more. Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park is truly a Medley of Wonders!

Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale National Park contains one of the loveliest and most varied tracts of tropical forest in Uganda. Forest cover, interspersed with patches of grassland and swamp, dominates the northern and central parts of the park on an elevated plateau. The park is home to a total of 70 mammal species, most famously 13 species of primate including the chimpanzee. It also contains over 375 species of birds. Kibale adjoins Queen Elizabeth National Park to the south to create a 180km-long corridor for wildlife between Ishasha, the remote southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Sebitoli in the north of Kibale National Park. The Kibale-Fort Portal area is one of Uganda’s most rewarding destinations to explore if you are on Uganda safari tour. The park lies close to the tranquil Ndali-Kasenda crater area and within half a day’s drive of the Queen Elizabeth, Rwenzori Mountains and Semuliki National Parks, as well as the Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve.

Semuliki National Park

Semuliki National Park sprawls across the floor of the Semliki Valley on the remote, western side of the Rwenzori. The park is dominated by the easternmost extension of the great Ituri Forest of the Congo Basin. A Uganda safari tour here takes you to one of Africa’s most ancient and bio-diverse forests; one of the few to survive the last ice age, 12-18,000 years ago. The Semliki Valley contains numerous features associated with central rather than eastern Africa. Thatched huts are shaded by West African oil palms; the Semliki River (which forms the international boundary) is a miniature version of the Congo River, the forest is home to numerous Central African wildlife species, and the local population includes a Batwa pygmy community that originated from the Ituri. As a result, this park provides a taste of Central Africa without having to leave Uganda. While Semuliki’s species have been accumulating for over 25,000 years, the park contains evidence of even older processes. Hot springs bubble up from the depths to demonstrate the powerful subterranean forces that have been shaping the rift valley during the last 14 million years.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda

Chimpanzees are among Man’s closest living relatives that share 98% of human genes. Throughout Africa they are found in 21 countries that includes Rwanda and Tanzania in East Africa. Kibale Forest national Park is very good for those on Uganda safari tour interested in chimpanzee tracking trips. When on Uganda safari tour, you may also trek chimps in Budongo forest in Murchison Falls National Park, in Semuliki National Park and also in Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Valley National Park lies in the rugged, semi-arid valleys between Uganda’s borders with Sudan and Kenya, some 700km from Kampala. Gazetted as a national park in 1962, it has a profusion of big game and hosts over 77 mammal species as well as around 475 bird species. Kidepo is Uganda’s most isolated national park, but the few who make the long journey north through the wild frontier region of Karamoja would agree that it is also the most magnificent, for Kidepo ranks among Africa’s finest wildernesses. From Apoka, in the heart of the park, a savannah landscape extends far beyond the gazetted area, towards horizons outlined by distant mountain ranges. During the dry season, the only permanent water in the park is found in wetlands and remnant pools in the broad Narus Valley near Apoka. These seasonal oases, combined with the open, savannah terrain, make the Narus Valley the park’s prime game viewing location.

Lake Mburo National Park.

Lake Mburo National Park is a compact gem, located conveniently close to the highway that connects Kampala to the parks of western Uganda. A Uganda safari tour here takes you to the smallest of Uganda’s savannah national parks and underlain by ancient Precambrian metamorphic rocks which date back more than 500 million years. It is home to 350 bird species as well as zebra, impala, eland, buffalo, oribi, Defassa waterbuck, leopard, hippo, hyena, topi and reedbuck. Together with 13 other lakes in the area, Lake Mburo forms part of a 50km-long wetland system linked by a swamp. Five of these lakes lie within the park’s borders. Once covered by open savanna, Lake Mburo National Park now contains much woodland as there are no elephants to tame the vegetation. In the western part of the park, the savanna is interspersed with rocky ridges and forested gorges while patches of papyrus swamp and narrow bands of lush riparian woodland line many lakes.

Bwindi Impenetrable forest

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park lies in southwestern Uganda on the edge of the Rift Valley. Its mist-covered hillsides are blanketed by one of Uganda’s oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests, which dates back over 25,000 years and contains almost 400 species of plants. More famously, this “impenetrable forest” also protects an estimated 320 mountain gorillas – roughly half of the world’s population, including several habituated groups, which can be tracked.

This biologically diverse region also provides shelter to a further 120 mammals. They include several primate species such as baboons and chimpanzees, as well as elephants and antelopes. There are around 350 species of birds hosted in this forest, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics.

The neighboring towns of Buhoma and Nkuringo both have an impressive array of luxury lodges, rustic bandas and budget campsites. For those on Uganda safari tour here, ther are restaurants, craft stalls and guiding services. Opportunities abound to discover the local Bakiga and Batwa Pygmy cultures through performances, workshops and village walks.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park

The Rwenzoris – the fabled Mountains of the Moon – lie in western Uganda along the Uganda-Congo border. The equatorial snow peaks include the third highest point in Africa, while the lower slopes are blanketed in moorland, bamboo and rich, moist montane forest. Huge tree-heathers and colorful mosses are draped across the mountainside with giant lobelias and “everlasting flowers”, creating an enchanting, fairytale scene. Rwenzori Mountains National Park protects the highest parts of the 120km-long and 65km-wide Rwenzori mountain range. The national park hosts 70 mammals and 217 bird species including 19 Albertine Rift endemics, as well as some of the world’s rarest vegetation.

The Rwenzoris are a world-class hiking and mountaineering destination. A nine- to twelve-day trek will get skilled climbers to the summit of Margherita – the highest peak – though shorter, non-technical treks are possible to scale the surrounding peaks. For those who prefer something a little less strenuous, neighboring Bakonzo villages offer nature walks, homestead visits home cultural performances and accommodation, including home-cooked local cuisine.

Mount Elgon National Park

At 4,000km², Mt. Elgon has the largest volcanic base in the world. Located on the Uganda-Kenya border it is also the oldest and largest solitary, volcanic mountain in East Africa. Its vast form, 80km in diameter, rises more than 3,000m above the surrounding plains. The mountain’s cool heights offer respite from the hot plains below, with the higher altitudes providing a refuge for flora and fauna. Mount Elgon National Park is home to over 300 species of birds, including the endangered Lammergeyer. Small antelopes, forest monkeys, elephants and buffalos also live on the mountainside. The higher slopes are protected by national parks in Uganda and Kenya, creating an extensive trans-boundary conservation area which has been declared a UNESCO Man & Biosphere Reserve.

A climb on Mt. Elgon’s deserted moorlands unveils a magnificent and uncluttered wilderness without the summit-oriented approach common to many mountains: the ultimate goal on reaching the top of Mt. Elgon is not the final ascent to the 4321m Wagagai Peak, but the descent into the vast 40km² caldera.

Sipi Falls

Sipi Falls is home to a series of three spectacular waterfalls, some of the best Arabica coffee in the world, world class mountain biking and beautiful sunsets! Sipi falls sits just outside Mount Elgon National Park which is the home of an incredible number of bird species as well as being the largest volcanic base in the world. Sipi Falls is a place to enjoy the challenges of the mountains, and also a place just to relax and unwind in a cool peaceful climate. Whether you are here to enjoy the challenges of the great outdoors or simply to relax and take in the sweeping views and abundant birdlife, Sipi River Lodge promises you a memorable stay.

Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi also called ‘Place of many little birds’ is located in south western Uganda between two districts of Kisoro and Kabale close to the border with Rwanda. It’s Located at 1,962 m (6,437 ft) above sea level, it is about 25 km (15.5 mi) long and 7 km (1.35 mi) wide. The depth of the lake is expected to vary between 44 m (144 Ft.) and 900 m (2,952 ft), which if true would make the lake the second deepest in Africa. It is one of the few lakes in the region that is rumored to be free of bilharzia and safe for swimming. Geographically Lake Bunyonyi is a body of water seven kilometers or 4.3 miles west from Kabale Town, southwestern Uganda. The lake’s altitude is 1,950m above sea level and it is surrounded by hills that are 2,200 to 2,478 meters high and intensely cultivated. Its 29 islands are concentrated in the central part and have few settlements but instead they are mostly used for tourist facilities and for secondary as well as a primary school study tours.

Lake Mutanda

The lake is located in Kisoro District in southwestern Uganda, approximately 20 kilometers (12 mi) north of the town of Kisoro, where the district headquarters are located. This location is approximately 454 kilometers (282 mi), by road, southwest of Kampala, Uganda’s capital and largest city. The coordinates of Lake Mutanda are: 01 14 06S, 29 40 12E (Latitude:-1.2350; Longitude: 29.6700). It is nestled in the foothills of the Virunga Mountain Range, at an altitude of 1,800 meters (5,900 ft). The three volcanoes within the range, that are partly located in Uganda, namely: Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabinyo and Mount Gahinga, can be viewed from Lake Mutanda. There are several islands in the lake. The lake is drained by the Rutshuru River, which flows northward to Lake Edward.

Ssese Islands

The Ssese Islands are an archipelago of eighty-four (84) islands in the northwestern part of Lake Victoria in Uganda. The islands are coterminous with the Kalangala District in southern Central Uganda, which does not have any territory on mainland Uganda. The islands occupy the northwestern corner of Lake Victoria, the second-largest freshwater lake in the world. The largest island in the archipelago is called Bugala Island. Its largest town, called Kalangala serves as the headquarters of the district that carries the same name (Kalangala District). Kalangala is located approximately 51 kilometres (32 mi), across water, southwest of Entebbe, in Wakiso District, on the Ugandan mainland. The coordinates of the district are: 0° 26′ 0.00″S, 32° 15′ 0.00″E (Latitude:-0.4333; Longitude: 32.2500).

The islands lie in two main groups. The south west can be referred to as the Bugala Group, after Bugala Island, the largest in the archipelago. The northeastern group can be referred to as the Koome Group, after Koome Island, the largest in that group. The two groups are separated by the Koome Channel. Other islands in the Bugala Group include: Bubeke, Bufumira, Bugaba, Bukasa, Buyova, Funve and Serinya. The main islands in the Koome Group include: Damba, Koome and Luwaji.

Lake Victoria

With a surface area of 68,800 sq km (26,600 sq mi), Lake Victoria is Africa’s largest lake. In addition, it’s the largest tropical lake in the world, and the planet’s second largest freshwater lake. Only North America’s Lake Superior is larger. An irregular quadrilateral in shape, its shores, save on the west, are deeply indented. Its greatest length from north to south is 210 miles (337 km), its greatest breadth 150 miles (240 km). Its coastline exceeds 2,000 miles (3,220 km). Its waters fill a shallow depression in the centre of the great plateau that stretches between the Western and Eastern Rift Valleys. The lake’s surface is 3,720 feet (1,134 meters) above sea level, and its greatest ascertained depth is 270 feet (82 meters). Many archipelagos are contained within the lake, as are numerous reefs, often just below the surface of the clear waters. Lake Victoria has more than 200 species of fish, of which the Tilapia is the most economically important. The lake’s basin area covers 92,240 square miles (238,900 square km).

The lake’s shores vary in aspect. The lake’s southwestern coast is backed by precipices 300 feet (90 meters) high, which give way on the western coast to papyrus and am batch swamps marking the delta of the Kagera River. The lake’s deeply indented northern coast is flat and bare. A narrow channel leads into the Kavirondo Gulf, which has an average width of 16 miles (25 km) and extends for 40 miles (64 km) eastward to Kisumu, Kenya. The Ugandan cities of Kampala and Entebbe lie along or near the northern coast. At the lake’s southeastern corner is Speke Gulf, and at the southwestern corner Emin Pasha Gulf. Of the numerous islands in the lake, Ukerewe, north of Speke Gulf, is the largest, with wooded hills rising 650 feet (200 meters) above the lake. It is densely populated. At the lake’s northwestern corner are the 62 islands of the Ssese archipelago, some of them of striking beauty.

Uganda offers the best African safari tour options. You will not lack anything to do while on an African safari tour in Uganda. Plan well and enjoy your Uganda safari tour.

December 16, 2016

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