Walking Safaris in Uganda

Walking Safaris in Uganda

A walking safari is a guided tour through a protected area or national park where you can get close to wildlife on foot. It is a popular activity on gorilla and wildlife safaris in Uganda, and is different from a nature walk. Walking safaris are conducted in two national parks in Uganda and typically take place in the early morning (around 7:00 am to 10:00 am) or late afternoon (around 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm). During the safari, you will be accompanied by an escorted game ranger.

Popular Places For Walking Safaris

• Lake Mburo national park
• Kidepo Valley National park.
• Kibale Forest National Park
• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is often overlooked but is actually one of the most rewarding parks to visit in Uganda. In 2019, it was highly recommended for its walking safari experiences. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including zebra herds, impala (which are only found in this park), elands (the largest species of antelope), leopards, and giraffes. If you are looking for a reliable and enjoyable walking safari, Lake Mburo National Park is a great choice.

Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Valley National Park is a naturally beautiful national park known for its large buffalo herds and prides of lions. While walking safaris are not as common in this park, they can be a rewarding and wild experience, as the animals here are less accustomed to visitors. At Trek Africa Expeditions, we like to offer unique and special activities, including walking safaris, while still ensuring the safety of our clients. Overall, walking safaris are a unique and exciting way to experience the beauty and wildlife of Kidepo Valley National Park.

Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale forest National Park is known for its excellent walking safaris through the dense chimpanzee forests. As the park is completely forested, a walking safari is the only way to truly experience it. During the safari, you will have the opportunity to see a variety of primates, including chimpanzees, black and white colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, blue colobus monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and olive baboons. The walking safari is the best way to see these animals up close in their natural habitat.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is another popular destination for walking safaris in Uganda. These safaris offer the chance to see the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. There are several sectors of the park where you can go on a walking safari, including Nkuringo, Buhoma, and Ruhija. Buhoma and Nkuringo are among the most visited by mountain gorilla trekkers. During the safari, you will have the opportunity to explore the park’s dense forests, flowing streams, and diverse bird and primate populations. Additionally, you can visit the Batwa community, also known as the Pygmy people of the Congo forest, and learn about their culture and way of life in the forest. The Batwa Trail offers cultural performances and other interesting items. Overall, the walking safaris in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park provide a unique and immersive experience in the park’s natural and cultural wonders.

Other destinations in Uganda that offer walking safaris include Mountain Rwenzori National Park, Semliki National Park, Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu Forest Reserve in Kasese, Mabira Forest in Jinja, and Mabamba Swamp in Entebbe (which is popular with birdwatchers). You can book a walking safari through a trusted safari company, and Uganda is open for visitors all year round.

Tips for a good Walking Safari

Many tourists are unaware that walking safaris are a possibility in national parks. However, getting out of the car and walking close to the animals, possibly even having a bush breakfast, can make a wildlife or gorilla trekking safari in Africa even more memorable.

What to pack on a Walking Safari in Uganda

• A pair of binocular, help you to see the animals more clearly
• Carry enough mineral water for drinking along the way,
• Wear good hiking boots for the journey, so that you can keep up the pace with others,
• Carry a rain jacket in you backpack,
• Do not forget you camera
• Wear long camouflaging trousers, long sleeved shirts with dull colours among others.