Popular and Incorrect Car Hire Myths in Uganda
If you are looking for the most cost-effective and flexible option on your next road trip in Uganda or any part of East Africa, then renting a car should be a must-do. This is regardless of whether you are hiring it for short-term or long-term travel. But there is need to have adequate knowledge or information when it comes to car rental services.
A lot has been said about rental cars –some are true while others are false. This article looks into some of the most popular and incorrect car hire myths. If you plan to rent a car in Uganda, endeavor to avoid most of the myths and make an informed decision.
Some of the most popular and incorrect car hire myths;
Only few caws are available
There is often myth among travelers regarding car hire services that the user is restricted to the types of cars he/she can rent. But this is absolute false. Hiring a car in Uganda with us presents to you variety of rental car options. We have a range of rental cars suiting the travel needs of all kinds of travelers on Uganda safaris. This is whether you plan to hire a van, land cruisers, coaster buses, trucks, Super custom, 4×4 Toyota Rav4, Land Cruiser Double Roof Tent, 4×4 Land Cruiser TX/TZ/V8, 4×4 Land Cruiser Prado, and more. With more options at visitors’ display, renting a car with us guarantees you some level of flexibility, especially when deciding on the category/type of a car that you plan to travel in while on Uganda safari.
Book a car with big international/national car hire service provider
Often travelers are left to think planning or booking a safari with an international company is the best way compared to local agents/companies. The fact is that dealing with a local car hire company is a great thing one can do. First, as a local tour operator, we have knowledge not only on the rental cars a visitor can hire but also the destinations, their terrains and suitable vehicle worth hiring for your road trips regardless of the region in Uganda.
Booking your car hire with an independent car rental company like ours comes with numerous benefits which you may not enjoy if you opted for a bigger corporation. In case there are issues, you won’t know who will be providing road assistance. We offer road assistance and other services like upfront service free of hidden charges.
No difference between car hire companies
Most clients think that car hire service providers operate under the same conditions. Each and every car hire company has its set terms and conditions, except they share sections but still you can easily have a clear differences.
You can be charged for full excess for minor damage
This is one of the commonest myths and it doesn’t happen that way. Usually, very minor damage won’t be charged completely and if it does happen, can be at lowest amount. Amazingly, all our fleets of rental cars are ever fully services and they are in their better mechanical conditions.
You will incur a cost for full day even if you pick up the car late
There is always misconception about car rentals that you can be charged for a full day even if you pick up the car late. The fact is this isn’t true. Unlike others, for our case, we do things differently whereby if you pick up the vehicle at 5:00pm, your day fee runs up to 5:00pm the next day. We don’t charge you for the day you have not used the car. We can also provide half day hire on week days and this is perfect for travelers with limited time.
You can book even on last minute-simply walk in and hire a car without pre-booking
While it is possible to book a car even on a last minute, there are higher chances of not finding one considering the high demand. There is a lot to be put together including correct paperwork, and other process. This is why you must pre-book your vehicle to avoid any chances of missing your rental car.
Car rental companies don’t check for driving convictions
This is false—driving convictions are always checked for. Just ensure that you are honest from the very start. Drivers will be required to present their national insurance number plus valid driving license. Be aware that some convictions may lead to cancellation of your rental car booking. Take note that insurance cover most companies provides only caters for the vehicle excluding visitors.
Read MoreUganda’s Olympic and Commonwealth Games Medalists
Olympic Games medalists
1968: Mexico City, Eridadi Mukwanga, Boxing, Silver
1968: Mexico City, Leo Rwabwogo, Boxing, Bronze
1972: Munich, John Akii-Bua, Athletics, Gold
1972: Munich, Leo Rwabwogo, Boxing, Silver
1980: Moscow, John Mugabi, Boxing, Silver
1996: Atlanta, Davis Kamoga, Athletics, Bronze
Commonwealth Games medalists
1954: Vancouver, Patrick Etolu, Athletics, Silver
1958: Cardiff, Thomas Kawere, Boxing, Silver
1962: Perth, George Oywello, Boxing, Gold
1962: Perth, Peter Odhiambo, Boxing, Gold
1962: Perth, Francis Nyangweso, Boxing, Bronze
1962: Perth, Kesi Odong, Boxing, Silver
1962: Perth, Amos Omolo, Athletics, Bronze
1962: Perth, Benson Ishiepai, Athletics, Bronze
1962: Perth, John Sentongo, Boxing, Bronze
1966: Kingston, Alex Odhiambo, Boxing, Bronze
1966: Kingston, Mathias Ouma, Boxing, Bronze
1966: Kingston, Benson Ocan, Bronze
1970: Edinburgh, Judith Ayaa, Athletics, Bronze
1970: Edinburgh, James Odwori, Boxing, Gold
1970: Edinburgh, Leo Rwabwogo, Boxing, Silver
1970: Edinburgh, Deogratias Musoke, Boxing, Silver
1970: Edinburgh, William Koskei, Athletics, Silver
1970: Edinburgh, Mohamed Muruli, Boxing, Gold
1970: Edinburgh, Benson Masanda, Boxing, Gold
1974: Christchurch, Silver Ayoo, Athletics, Silver
1974: Christchurch, Men’s 4x400m, Athletics, Bronze
1974: Christchurch, James Odwori, Boxing, Silver
1974: Christchurch, John Byaruhanga, Boxing, Bronze
1974: Christchurch, Ali Rojo, Boxing, Silver
1974: Christchurch, Shadrack Odhiambo, Boxing, Silver
1974: Christchurch, Ayub Kalule, Boxing, Gold
1974: Christchurch, Mohamed Muruli, Boxing, Gold
1974: Christchurch, Benson Masanda, Boxing, Bronze
1982: Brisbane, Ruth Kyalisima, Athletics, Silver
1982: Brisbane, Peter Rwamuhanda, Athletics, Silver
1982: Brisbane, Victor Byarugaba, Boxing, Silver
1990: Auckland, Justin Juuko, Boxing, Gold
1990: Auckland, Godfrey Nyakana, Boxing, Gold
1990: Auckland, Abdu Kaddu, Boxing, Bronze
1990: Auckland, Charles Matata, Boxing, Bronze
1994: Victoria, Frederick Muteweta, Boxing, Bronze
1994: Victoria, Charles Kizza, Boxing, Bronze
1998: Kuala Lumpur, Jackson Asiku, Boxing, Bronze
2002: Manchester, Joseph Lubega, Boxing, Silver
2002: Manchester, Mohamed Kayongo, Boxing, Silver
2006: Melbourne, Dorcus Inzikuru, Athletics, Gold
2006: Melbourne, Boniface Kiprop, Athletics, Gold
2006: Melbourne, Martin Mubiru, Boxing, Bronze
How Safe is Self Drive in Uganda
Are you thinking of undertaking a self-drive tour in Uganda and wondering whether it is safe to do so? Do you have “safety” questions lingering in your mind regarding road trips in this beautiful African Country known as the Pearl of Africa? Well, let’s settle that doubt today. Uganda is one of the best places in Africa you can undertake a self-drive tour and this is because of the well-maintained and not-difficult-to-navigate roads. Thanks to the improvement in the road network, many travelers are now opting to undertake self-drive tours and explore the beauty of the Pearl of Africa. However, undertaking a self-drive tour in Uganda isn’t a piece of Cake and not for the faint-heated, considering the intense and chaotic traffic that will put your defensive driving skills to test.
Also, the remote areas of Uganda still prove challenging and dangerous for drivers to navigate owing to their poor nature (loose-surface roads with no signs). While we say Uganda is safe for self-drives, there are still high-crime rates especially in the Urban Centers, wildlife on the roads, and other hazards which when being careful can be avoided.
When undertaking self-drive tours in Uganda, there are a number of things that you need to consider. Most importantly, you will require an International Driver’s License and if you are a resident, a Ugandan Driver’s License is required.
Speed Limits
Depending on where you are driving, follow and observe the speed limits. The speed limit for driving in urban places or Trading Centers is 50 kilometers per hour, while on Ugandan highways it is 100 kilometers per hour and if you are driving on rural and gravel roads, the speed limit is 80 kilometers per hour. Even with these set speed limits, it is very common to find other drivers/riders going against these limits and hence end up on the bad side of the law. Also, driving against the speed limit means blowing your car Insurance covers hence you will be liable for any damages that will happen in case of accidents.
Transport Safety
When we mention transport safety, we mean three main factors that include the Rental Car you intend to use for the self-drive tour, the condition of the road, and the advisable speed on the road. While there are some Rental Cars without Speed Trackers, it doesn’t mean you won’t get into trouble with the roadside traffic officers. If you decide to drive a Car in dangerous Mechanical Conditions, go against the set speed limits, or don’t consider how bad the road looks before driving recklessly, you won’t guarantee your safety and that of other road users. Some road users (especially motorists) ignore traffic lights while others drive alone the pedestrian lanes. If you aren’t used to left-hand driving, it is also advisable to hire a driver.
The Condition of the Road
While most of Ugandan roads are well-maintained and relatively stress-free to navigate, there are those you will feel uncomfortable driving through. For instance, potholes on urban roads or rugged terrains in some regions require caution during the self-drive tour. Even though you have used those roads for so long, it shouldn’t be the reason for overspeeding as you might get more problems than you bargained for.
Safety of the Car
Before you hit the road for your self-drive tour, the safety of the Car should be evaluated because it is another thing that will determine whether the self-drive tour is safe or not. For this reason, your self-drive Rental Car should be checked for stability, braking systems, steering wheel, and wheel alignment among others prior to embarking on the trip.
Additionally, don’t allowed to be deceived by attractive rates because not all that glitters is gold. Pay more attention to the service quality because sometimes those low rates come with hidden costs that you aren’t aware of.
Read MoreLong Term Car Rental in Uganda
We are flexible with our services and when it comes to lengthy or long rentals our prices becomes low. We give discounts on clients taking the car monthly or more. Clients also who rent a car in Uganda and then extend for more days. We can also give a discount for such rental. It is possible to extent your rental while on safari. Just send us an email, our representative will answer promptly, you may decide to communicate by phone or send a whatsapp.
With Monthly rentals, we do the car servicing, in case of mechanical breakdown, we fix the car and then continue with the journey. Our services are not only for clients going for safaris, we also cater for conference clients, NGO, different offices and etc.
In case the rental is around Kampala, even the 2 wheel drive cars can work. We have cars that can fit for long rental starting from Toyota VTZ to bigger 4×4.Our cars are equipped with the Jack, Wheel spanner and the spare tyre.
It is also possible to hire a driver on long rental, our driver guides can also drive office, or conference people, and they are knowledgeable about different cities and the roads. Enjoy our cheapest prices when you rent with us for long period.
We also give discounts for our returnee clients, depending on the number of days you prefer to rent the car. We book accommodations for our clients and also activities like gorilla tracking, chimpanzee tracking. This can be done by purchasing the permits prior to the rental.
It is optional, some clients decide to drive to Uganda wildlife Authority and purchase permits and book activities for themselves. We give information about different destination where clients want to go and also suggest accommodation for budget, Midrange or luxury on request.
When we purchase permits for our clients, we deliver them with the car at the airport, office or airport. We wait our clients at the airport with placards written on their names.
Extended car hire can be a camping safari, rooftop/ground tent, self-driving or with driver, any type of car can work depending on the destinations and activities, It can be group tour or solo.
Read MoreUganda Safari Ideas for Introverts
Uganda is one of the best destinations in the world any introvert traveler can think of exploring. Introvert travelers often prefer enjoying their own company, spending quality time alone as they relax and recharge. Travel is one of the overwhelming industries and how you plan to pair up with the rest of the world an introvert does matter a lot and interestingly, we have got some incredible safari ideas for you.
First, Uganda is an introvert-friendly destination. It is dubbed the “Pearl of Africa” because of its remarkably impressive attraction and plenty of distinct things that the rest of the world isn’t offering. On Uganda safari, expect to engage in more than mountain gorilla trekking. Uganda is home to wide array of wildlife, spectacular waterfalls, scenic Lakes and vibrant cultures. As an introvert, here are some of the incredible Uganda safari ideas;
Go cultural safari
Nothing sparks travel spirits as an introvert like embarking on a cultural tour in Uganda. Uganda is a destination with vibrant cultures, unique traditions and practices and you can experience the country’s distinct traditional music and dance performance. There are plenty of opportunities to experience Uganda’s distinct cultures and traditions including visiting Ndere cultural center, Batwa pygmy community, Kasoga cultural experience, and Entanda cultural experience, etc.
Be part of mountain gorilla trekking safari
Mountain gorilla trekking is a special adventure that introduces you into the jungles to see the endangered mountain gorillas. An encounter with a family of mountain gorillas in the natural forest is such an emotional experience that comes once in a lifetime. These large apes live not anywhere else except only Rwanda, Uganda and DR. Congo with not more than 1063 of them still survive in the wild. The largest population of mountain gorillas resides in the 2 parks in Uganda: Bwindi & Mgahinga NP, and gorilla tour permits are issued at the same rate – USD 700 per person.
Embark on a Uganda safari
Uganda is one of the outstanding destinations where you can experience the most of African wilderness. It has the finest parks for you see the cape buffaloes, giraffes, lions, elephants, leopards, cheetahs, antelopes, birds and more. The top places to visit for a Uganda wildlife safari include Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth, Kidepo and Lake Mburo N.P or Semuliki National Park.
Escape to the untouched Ssese Islands
Comprising of over 84 scenic islands, the Ssese Islands are archipelago on Lake Victoria. These islands are secluded perfect for all introvert travelers on Uganda safari tour. They come with plenty of exciting things for you to enjoy including fishing, sailing, sand beaches, horseback riding, boating and hiking opportunities.
Forest walks/hiking
With plenty of hiking/nature walking opportunities, Uganda is indeed a remarkable spot for solo/introvert visitors. Uganda holds some of the unspoiled natural rainforests that gives you that feel of naturalness and these include Mabira Forest, Budongo, Kibale Forest, Maramagambo Forest, Kalinzu, and more. These places are quiet and allow you experience the best moment of your life away from the bustling city. Other ideal spots for hiking in Uganda include the Sipi Falls, Mount Elgon, Rwenzori Mountain ranges, Mgahinga volcanoes and others.
Safety tips
- Focus on what is going on around you.
- Keep safe your valuables or better have them kept in the hotel room if you plan to take a walk in the city.
- Dress in a manner that doesn’t erode local culture (be respectful).
- Although English is the first language, better to learn some key phrases in the local language.
- Have with you emergency contacts in case of anything
- Don’t walk alone in the night/dark streets
- Don’t display valuables
- Pack well for your trip- have some insect repellent, daypack, safari shirts, trousers, valid visas, passports, and sweater, etc.
- Don’t go hiking alone, etc
The Ultimate Northern Circuit Road Trip in Uganda
Uganda a renowned safari destination accommodates both travelers on fully guided and self-guided safari. Today, several travelers however have wished to test their capabilities of driving in a foreign country. So, hiring a car for Uganda self drive adventure is another amusement to consider when planning for a safari in Uganda.
Among the amusing moments on a safari to Uganda is taking a drive through the Northern route. The northern route remained for unique encounters of which some are not seen with other adventure routes in Uganda.
Considerably, other major safari adventure routes include; northeastern route, western route, Southwestern route and the Eastern routes. All these routes are blessed with unique features as may be we shall discuss in our next write-ups. Now we’re to concentrate and focus this write-up to the northern safari route.
The northern safari road trip is an adventure packed route, when taking this amazing route on your self-drive road trip safari expect to encounter; the big five, world’s most powerful waterfalls, magnificent colorful waterfalls, abundance of wildlife. There are amazing people, one Uganda’s biggest cities of Gulu among many other considerations.
Where the northern safari road trip starts
The route as usual starts from Kampala taking the northern directing through Bombo road, then it turns to be the Gulu-Kampala road. The northern safari route will not branch to west Nile region, continue to Kabong to Kidepo Valley National Park.
Here are the Major tourist destinations to explore while on the Northern Uganda Trail;
Murchison Falls National Park
Uganda’s top visited tourist destination, Murchison falls National Park is among the special places where many tourist don’t wish to have it missing on their travel. A self-drive to Murchison is among the ease to drive places which even needs fewer hours of driving about 5 hours. Murchison is Uganda’s largest protected areas among the 10 National Parks in Uganda.
The park has unique and amazing features that has kept it most loved and most visited park in Uganda. However, though it’s magnificent, Murchison Falls National Park is not the most famous among tourist destination in Uganda, but comes second after Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Murchison Falls National Park is unique with mighty Murchison Falls which is almost the major attraction at the Park. The Murchison Falls are arguably the world’s most powerful falls due to their thunderous rapids that force into a narrow gorge of about 7m wide. The rapids rush to roughly pour 45m down forming the humus brownish bubble flow of the Victoria Nile.
The Victoria Nile continues forming a calm flow which bisect the park into the north and southern sections. The Victoria flow offer one of the best waters for the wild game cruise that leads to the bottom of the falls. The 3 hours boat drive starts from Para ferry dock point leading through the nature rewarding cruise.
The northern section of the park feature the open savannah woods accommodating largest concentration of wildlife. Majorly at the Delta point where the Victoria Nile meets with Lake Albert to make one of the largest deltas in Uganda that host larger numbers of animals, birds and others. The northern section of the Murchison Falls National Park is majorly known for adventure packed game drive. Take a guided-drive here expect to watch prides of lions, herds of elephants, buffalos, antelopes, giraffes, warthogs, leopards on rare occasions, Marabou stork etc.
Taking a kind of self-drive in Murchison you expect to take adventures like game drives, boat cruise, sports fishing, nature walks, and visiting of the falls, bird watching, and chimpanzee tracking in the nearby Budongo forest reserve.
Kidepo Valley National Park
Africa’s remotest national Park according to CNN report 2017. Kidepo is Uganda’s remotest park to access by road. The remote Kidepo Valley Park was rarely visited by tourist due to changes with accessing the park. However, the accessibility of the park has become easy still by road due to improved road facilities. There is no longer worry of taking a self-drive safari road trip into this far designated tourist destination.
Kidepo Valley National Park is among Africa’s amazing destinations which displays the real authentic African. The best landscape view with the endless savannah plain views packed with abundance of wildlife species. Kidepo is divided into the Kidepo Valley and the Narus Valley, and Narus Valley that starts around Apoka is the famous with animals.
The park has one of the highest concentration of wildlife species. The animal sights are decorated with zebras, giraffes, buffalos, elephants, several antelope species, lions are common. All these are common with the immediate Narus Valley. Unique birds are counted among are the ostrich, the secretary bird among many other species.
Kidepo is a special place to see and visit communities of real African people who still hold to their ancestor’s backgrounds. The Karamoja people are unique people and the Ik who live in the mountains of Karamoja sub-region. Among adventure activities done in Kidepo Valley National Park include the game drives, community visits, nature walks, mountain hiking and wild camping.
Driving to Kidepo Valley National Park in the recent years was one of the hectic undertaking. However, the narrative has changed with improved road infrastructures, longer distances are now driven on paved roads and reaching the region the unpaved roads are not such bad. Having your stronger 4×4 safari cruiser makes you wander the regions faultlessly.
Aruu Watefalls
These magnificent waterfalls are located in Padar district en-route to Kidepo Valley shorty after Gulu city. Aruu waterfalls are unique and beautiful waterfalls that give an awesome breathtaking moment of relaxing after your long journey drive. A short drive to Aruu falls takes a minimum of one and half hour. Reaching here have to slope down on sharp stones, and cross ponds by a lop which a great moment in the forest.
Gulu City
One of the major cities in Uganda, Gulu is the major city for the northern region. When driving through the city can take a moment and visit some special places within. Can take up a walk into the main market of Gulu city, or even tasting on the some local dishes prepared in restaurants within gulu city.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
The only natural area to find rhinos in Uganda. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary makes Uganda the only place you visit and see rhinos. Uganda didn’t have rhinos for a period of about 20 years since when the last rhino was hunted down until 2005. The Ziwa rhino sanctuary is also located alongside the northern safari circuit. When wishing to visit Uganda and track all the Big Five list, then Ziwa should not miss on your travel plan.
The sanctuary is found en-route to Murchison Falls National Park. When visited the sanctuary expect to watch several bird among is the Shoebill stork birds, several antelope species. One of the amazing places in Uganda to track wild species on foot.
Read MorePlanning a Self Guided Safari in Uganda
Uganda is one of the most interesting places to visit in Africa. Most people especially from Europe opt to do it themselves because they think it easy and soft to do it. Yes it’s true, but still you have to take caution of certain things when you choose a self drive safari in Uganda. Getting the best car that will suit your vacation comes in everybody’s mind when sending an e-mail to the would be company in help. Always they choose the 4 wheel drive vans this is good but reliability also has to matter here in terms of break-downs.
Take an example when you are stuck in the most beautiful but remote Kidepo Valley National Park in North Eastern Uganda! You got no rescue in the next 12 hours and when it’s availed in the shorter hours it’s costly because you got to use the UWA vehicles. This is not the point but always try to find out those people who got experience in the game, they know which car can much with every situation and any road in Uganda. Always they look a bit more costly but still reliable because they know where to turn. The vans may not necessarily look new as the ones you left home but at least have been tested on the journeys they are up to; so don’t question the model of the car but ask the reliability.
You got time at your budget because you choose what to see and where to go as you have unlimited mileages to cover on your safari; that’s at self drive safari Uganda. Here we aim at a client’s satisfaction because they always need to cover more but time cannot always be on their side. In this case we give you space to find the best you can cover as you pay a visit to Uganda.
Never book a lodge by yourself because you will always get a “Muzungu” rate which is not the case if we made it for you. We know that you got a budget when you plan your vacation stay in Uganda, but we love it if you did not run past it, that’s why we want to come in not because we like a commission but because we like you recommend our services to other would be visitors to our country. We always define for you the best accommodations where you will have excellent services and value for money and where your interests lie depending on what you like to see. For any memorable vacation, you always long to return because you got more than you expected at less than you planned.
This does not only apply for Uganda only but also in Rwanda. When you got to cover Rwanda and Uganda at once then the terms still apply. Rwanda Safaris are almost the same like in Uganda, the differences is that you got many rolling hills in Rwanda and change the diving side from left to right, but this does not seem very tusky to most visitors who tour both countries. You can have slight changes in the cultures of the people short routes to tourist areas like gorilla trekking points, Genocide sites, and the physical appearance of the two countries has got a difference. A self guided tour is all one would need but still depends on ones desire.
Read MoreWhy Go for Car Hire in Uganda?
When you are tripping in Uganda, you have to ensure that you get a safe and convenient means of transport. It can be okay to use public means if you moving around Kampala but visiting remote areas like national parks, the ideal mode is car hire in Uganda.
Traveling long distances is overwhelming, especially in a foreign country and the only way to make it easy is by renting a car from a reputable company.
Car hire has lots of benefits as we are going to explain them below:
Safe
Car rental companies emphasize the security and safety of their client first. They ensure that the client is driven in a well-conditioned vehicle with all the safety accessories such as seat belts, airbags, fire extinguishers, and first aid boxes. The belongings of the clients are also kept safely in the trunk of the car. Additionally, you don’t share the car with any foreign person to worry about stealing your luggage. It is only you as a client or with your pals or family and your luggage in the car.
Convenient and Organized
When you are using public means, you share the vehicle with different people who are strangers to you. There is no reservation of your favorite seat, it is on a first come first serve basis thus ending up traveling uncomfortably. Car hire Uganda does it better as the vehicle is exclusively reserved for you, no fighting for space with strangers, and the luggage is kept safely in the boot.
Quick
Car hire services being fast is one of the reasons why most travelers have turned to them over public means. When you are using car rental, you are taken directly to your destination without any stopovers and hence saving time. The chauffeurs provided are experienced and informed about the local areas so they know the shortest routes leading to the various destinations in Uganda. These can beat off the heavy traffic and aid you to reach your destination in time for your appointment.
Secluded Mode of Transportation
Car hire offers privacy to the clients since they are reserved only for those particular clients at the time. There is no room for sharing with another traveler whom you don’t know about. The exclusivity allows having that independence to have fun and enjoy with your family or colleagues while on the road trip.
Downs the Stress
Using public means such as buses and trains can be such a hassle since you have to know the time of its operation. This brings the tension and worry of missing it. More so, you have to walk a reasonable distance to reach the station to get on board. This is not the case with car rental services where everything is scheduled at the client’s discretion that is to say the time and the point of pick up and drop off.
Outstanding extra services
There are additional services given to travelers by car hire services such as extra baby seats, GPS, music system, spacious trunk, and camping kit. The services are supplements that can make a traveler’s trip an amazing and exciting one.
Point-to-Point Transfer
Car rental provides door-to-door services to its clients. Pick-up and drop-offs are done at your preferred points such as your home, hotel, or airport. You do not have to walk to the station with your luggage to access the services. They simply come to your place of convenience and transfer you to wherever you wish to go and bring you back to your abode.
If you want to have a convenient, safe, fast and comfortable travel experience, then look no further car hire services will meet your needs.
Read MoreUganda’s Inspectors-General of Police
Uganda has been served by several Inspectors-General and Commissioners of Police. Here is a list of Inspector Generals of Police since the country attained its independence in October 1962.
Michael J. Macoun, 1959-1964
Lt. Col. Wilson Erinayo Oryema, 1964-1971
Benjamin Othieno, 1971-1974
Luke Ofungi, 1974-1975
Kassim Musa Obura, 1975-1977
Odria, 1977-1979
David Nsubuga Barlow, 1979
William Musoke, 1979-1980
Boniface Aaron Okoth-Ogola, 1980-1985
Luke Ofungi, 1985-1990
David Psomgen, 1990
Apollo Byekwaso, 1990-1992
John Cossey Odomel, 1992-1999
John Kisembo, 1999-2000
Lieutenant-General Edward Katumba Wamala, 2000-2005
Major-General Edward Kale Kayihura, 2005-2018
Martin Okoth Ochola, March 2018 to date
Top Places To See Shoebill Storks In Uganda
Scientifically known as Balaeniceps rex, shoebill storks are whale-headed storks that always make it to the checklist of every birder in Uganda. These are one of the most sought-after birds and you don’t have to be an enthusiastic bird watcher or ornithologist to be thrilled at the first sight of these beautiful birds.
These wading birds are always spotted within the Tropical marshes/wetlands of Tropical East African in the Great Lakes region. They have whale heads and shoe-shaped bills with shark hooks, darkish plumage, short necks, and long legs (typical of storks). Shoebill storks are somewhat aggressive hence have few predators although their eggs and chicks are sometimes eaten by nest predators like snakes. Their diet usually comprises baby crocodiles, small animals, frogs, lungfish, turtles, and snails.
Uganda is one of the few homes of these critically endangered in the East African region and they are found in the following places;
Mabamba Wetland
Mabamba, one of the largest wetlands surrounding Lake Victoria is one of the top places to see shoebill storks in Uganda. About 45 kilometers from Kampala, this area can be reached from Entebbe, by a traditional motorized boat or canoe trip. For this area, these Storks are tracked by a canoe ride conducted in the morning or evening but also expect other Papyrus and waterbird species such as cattle egrets, kingfishers, African jacana, saddle-billed storks, Papyrus canary, and many others.
Murchison falls National Park
The shoebill storks in Murchison falls National Park are found along the Lake Albert Delta Ramsar wetland made up of the Nile River from Murchison falls to a small section of Lake Albert. These storks can be spotted during the early morning Delta Cruise but also expect to see the long-tailed Cormorants, Grey-crowned cranes, white-faced whistling duck, Papyrus gonolek, African darter, African fish eagles, and many others. This boat cruise will also offer views of the Nile crocodiles and Hippos.
Semliki National Park
Another unmissable shoebill stork viewing destination in Uganda is Semliki National Park, set within the western side of the country. They are common along the southern shores of Lake Albert and are regarded as bird lovers’ must-see attractions.
Lake Mburo National Park
Located in western Uganda about 4 hours drive from Kampala, Lake Mburo National Park is another amazing spot for seeing shoebill storks in Uganda. They can be seen within wetlands along the Lake and this is during the boat cruise. While in the company of professional guides, you will identify these beautiful storks on the shores and nearby wetland in addition to the African fish eagles, Pied and Malachite kingfishers, pelicans, Papyrus gonolek, and many others.
Lugogo wetland, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Lugogo is a 10-square kilometer wetland within Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and another spectacular home to the vulnerable shoebill storks. Shoebill tracking trips in this area begin as early as 7:00 am and are done on wooden canoes. Not only are you guaranteed shoebill stork views but also sunrise over the wetland with other wetland bird species such as Palmnut vultures, speckled-breasted woodpecker, Giant kingfishers, and many others. Visitors looking for endless views of the shoebill storks can add Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary trip to Murchison falls National Park.
The Makanaga Bay
Although not as popular as Mabamba Wetland, Makanaga Bay is also on the shores of Lake Victoria and is also an excellent spot to see Shoebill storks in Uganda. It can be reached from Entebbe or Kampala by canoe ride with most tours conducted in the morning. Make sure to be in the company of a local guide with chances of spotting other numerous wetland bird species. You will also learn about the history of the area but more especially numerous shoebill storks.
Uganda Wildlife Education Center (UWEC)
Uganda Wildlife Education Center (formerly Entebbe Zoo) is a rescue center for orphaned animals, one of which is the shoebill storks. This Center is found on the shores of Lake Victoria in Entebbe and also shelters other beautiful bird species such as peacocks, cattle egrets, and many others.
Ishasha sector Queen Elizabeth National Park
Most travellers know the Ishasha sector for the tree-climbing lions but it is also another top place to see shoebill storks in Uganda. They can be tracked or spotted along the wetland-fringed Lake Edward shores. Other top places to see shoebill storks in Uganda are Lutembe Bay, Lwera Swamp, Kyabakuza Swamp, and many others.
Besides the shoebill storks, other stork species in Uganda include Marabou storks, open-billed storks, Saddle-billed storks, and yellow-billed storks among others.
Read More