Exploring Nature

UGANDA’S CONSERVATION AREAS

QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK

Queen Elizabeth national park together with Kyambura and Kigezi wildlife reserves form one of the most diverse ecosystems in Africa. The park spills over an area of 1978 km2 in the western arm of the great East African rift valley. Thousands of hippos populate the shorelines of lakes Edward and George and the open savannah dotted with acacia and euphorbia trees provide habitat for elephant, lion, leopard, Uganda kobs and big herds of buffalo. 606 bird species including the prehistoric looking stork shoebill have been recorded in the park. A launch trip along the hippo crowded banks of Kazinga channel gives you a unique unequalled wildlife experience.

MURCHISION FALLS CONSERVATION AREA

Deriving its name from the Murchison falls where the mighty river Nile explodes through a narrow gorge to flow down and form a placid river whose banks are thronged with hippos, crocodiles, waterbucks and buffaloes, Murchison falls (3,877kms2) is Uganda’s largest conservation area and one of the most visited parks. One of the highlights is the launch trip to the bottom of the falls from Paraa.
A visit to the top of the falls is equally stunning. Game drives, chimpanzee tracking, nature walks and sport fishing will spice up your visit to the park. 76 mammal species and 450 bird species live in Murchison falls national park.

BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK

Located in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable national park encompasses one of the last remaining habitats of half – an estimated 320 individuals – of the surviving endangered mountain gorillas.
Gorilla tracking is a dream experience and booking is advised well a head of time. Other species include forest elephants, atleast 10 primate species and over 300 bird species all sharing the thick impenetrable forests of Bwindi.


KIBALE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

With lush tropical rainforest and fascinating diversity of animals, Kibale national park is one of the most beautiful and stunning forests in Uganda. It has one of the highest diversity and density of primates in Africa. A remarkable total of 13 primate species including the black and white, blue monkey and grey – checked mangabey, red tailed tailed monkey, bush babies and pottos live in the park. Over 325 bird species have been recorded. The park is famous for chimpanzee tracking.

MOUNT ELGON NATIONAL PARK

With the largest surface area of any extinct volcano in the world (50km by 80km), Mt elgon is the fourth highest mountain in East Africa, with the second highest peak in Uganda (Wagagai peak, reaching 4,321 metres). To the base of the mountain is Mbale a thriving provincial town with plenty of life and one that you would not help but fall for. This is the gate way to sipi falls – the country’s most beautiful falls. Many travelers find Mt. Elgon an exciting alternative to some of the strenuous climbs in East Africa.

KIDEPO VALLEY NATIONAL PARK

Found in North Eastern Uganda, this is one of the spectacular parks in Uganda, with an area of 1,344 km2. It harbors a great number of animal species than other parks. Activities include game and scenery viewing, bird watching, hiking, and cultural performance. Kidepo is 810 kms from Kampala and a flight to access the area is less strenuous and ideal.

RWENZORI MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

Located in Western Uganda, the 120km2 Rwenzori chain is regarded to be the legendary snow capped mountains of the moon. This used to be almost as popular with the travelers as Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Kenya and has over the past 7 years strived to regain its fame. It is said to be wet at times thus the writings at Bujuku hut; Jesus came here to learn how to walk on water. After 5 days, any one could do it. You can undertake the challenge and trek the central circuit in about 7 days. The park offers unique experience of afro-montane rain forest.aar

Other parks in Uganda include Lake Mburo – famous for Zebras, impala, topi, among others, Mgahinga; another habitat to mountain gorillas on the south western boarder with Rwanda and DRC and Semliki; a paradise for primate and scenery viewing, hot springs, and bird watching.

Ecotravel Uganda makes it possible for you to visit all, any or a combination of the above National Parks in Uganda. Please visit our sample safaris page and or tailor your trip now. You will love it!

Ecotravel Uganda makes it possible for you to visit all, any or a combination of the above National Parks in Uganda. Please visit our sample safaris page and or tailor your trip now. You will love it!