There is no better way to explore Uganda’s wildlife than on foot! Walking safaris in Uganda are completely unique from other safari activities such as the boat cruises, game drives and hot air balloon experiences among others. Going around a national park or any other protected area on foot takes you closer to the wildlife and the experience feels more real. It is time you got out of the safari vehicle and faced the wilderness closely; watch those animals while on foot. Your experience depends on your interests and the place you choose to go for your walking safari in Uganda this season.
Where can I go for walking safaris in Uganda?
Walking safaris are different from nature walks. They take place in only two national parks in Uganda; Lake Mburo national park and Kidepo Valley national park. Both of these national parks are less visited yet are so amazing. The walks last at least 2 hours and are conducted in the morning and evening.
Lake Mburo National Park; this Savannah park is located in western Uganda and is the closest to access from Kampala and Entebbe. It is home to various beautiful animals including impala, zebras, giraffes, elands and buffaloes among others. Predators including leopard are present and can be spotted mostly at night. Getting close and take a picture right in front of a beautiful animal like a giraffe or zebra is enchanting and remarkable. You will also love the scenic landscape which offers charming photography background.
Lake Mburo national park is one of the most visited national parks in Uganda because of its strategic location- en route to the chain of the impressive national parks in western Uganda which include Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Kidepo Valley National Park; this wilderness game park is located in the northeastern corner of Uganda. A walking safari in Kidepo is extremely thrilling as it takes you around a tranquil jungle that is less tampered with and no frequent tourist vehicles hence still offering a more wild experience. The calmness here alongside the big herds of buffaloes is a whole amazement in the national park. Resident animals of the park include buffaloes, lions, zebra, giraffe, cheetah and reed-buck among others and some of these will be spotted as you go through the walk ways in the park. Common bird species seen during walking safaris in Kidepo valley national park include the dark chanting goshawk, Kori bustard, little bee-eater, ostrich and red-and yellow barbet among others.
Note that Kidepo is the least visited Savannah national park in Uganda because of its remoteness. Due to this, the animals have been observed to be wilder compared to those in other parks. Every tourist on a walking safari here is therefore advised to stay close to their group colleagues plus their ranger guide for safety.
The open grasslands in the above Savannah parks of Uganda are a big reason for the rewarding adventure when exploring the parks on foot. Immerse yourself in the wilderness with the surrounding of the brownish grasslands and get the authentic feeling of being amidst the wilderness.
What to pack for walking safaris in Uganda
Having the right packing list is one of the major aspects that will help you enjoy every bit of your walking safari. Whether you are going for the safari in Lake Mburo or Kidepo national park, here are the things you must have in your bag;
- Long trousers
- Wide brimmed hat
- Long sleeved shirts/ blouses- less brightly colored
- Reusable Water bottle
- Strong hiking shoes
- Camera and binoculars
Planning for a safari in Uganda this season and you want to incorporate a walking safari in your tour? Simply highlight this and let us know so that we will arrange for a tailor-made tour that perfectly suits your safari interests. For bookings, send an email to info@ugandasafaribookings.com.
