By Eddie Ssemakula
Exploring Uganda is an adventure like no other. Whether you’re hoping to spot the Big Five, take in the stunning landscapes in the west, or just get away from it all, a Uganda Safari is an unforgettable experience. But before you go, you’ll need to make sure you’re fully prepared. Here’s a guide to help you get ready for your first Uganda safari.
Choose the Right Safari for YouThe first step to preparing for your Uganda safari is to choose the right type of safari for you. There are many different types of safaris available, ranging from luxury tours to more rustic camping trips. Consider your budget, your interests, and the amount of time you have available.
Do you want a shorter, more focused trip or a longer, more comprehensive experience? Once you’ve narrowed down your options, you can start researching the different safari companies and tours available.
Get the Necessary Vaccines and Medications
Before you go on your Uganda safari, you’ll need to make sure you’re up-to-date on all of your necessary vaccines and medications. Depending on where you’re travelling, you may need to get vaccinated for yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and other diseases. You should also talk to your doctor about taking malaria medication, as well as any other medications you might need for the trip. It’s been said too about Uganda, that you can experience three seasons in one day while here, so getting a jacket and some sunscreen packed wouldn’t be a bad idea.
Antelope population common in Ugandan parks. Photo by Andrew S on Unsplash
Pack the Right Gear
The type of gear you need for your Uganda Safari will depend on the type of trip you’re taking. If you’re going on a luxury tour, you won’t need to worry about bringing a tent or sleeping bag. However, if you’re going on a camping safari, you’ll need to make sure you have all the necessary camping gear. Regardless of the type of safari you’re taking, you’ll need to bring the right clothing and shoes. Make sure you have plenty of breathable, lightweight clothing that can protect you from the sun. You’ll also want to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Learn About the Local Wildlife
Before you go on your Uganda safari, it’s a good idea to do some research on the local wildlife. Learn about the different animals you might encounter, as well as the rules and regulations for viewing them. Find out how to identify different species, and what to do if you come across a dangerous animal. Knowing more about the local wildlife will help you stay safe and make the most of your trip. Bwindi in Western Uganda is for example known for the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, Rhino sanctuary for rhino populations, Murchison Park for her antelopes, and, Kibale for the primates.
Understand the Local Culture
In addition to researching the local wildlife, it’s also important to learn about the local culture. Read up on the customs, traditions, and etiquette of the area you’ll be visiting. This will help you be respectful of the local people and their culture. Refer to our recent article about Kampala, and explore the Karamojong tribe in the Kidepo area, you have some good options to start with right there.
Prepare for Emergencies
No matter how well you plan, there’s always a chance of something going wrong on your Ugandan safari. Make sure you’re prepared for any potential emergencies by bringing a first aid kit and any other necessary supplies. It’s also a good idea to let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back. No scares, Uganda is a largely stabilized country of late, but prudence has never cost anybody anything.
Enjoy the Experience
Once you’ve taken all the necessary steps to prepare for your Uganda safari, all that’s left to do is enjoy the experience.
Take in the stunning views, marvel at the wildlife up north, go white-water rafting in Jinja, behold the gorilla, and pull out the camera. A Uganda safari is always worth it.
Exploring the wilds of Uganda is an adventure like no other. With the right preparation and research, you can make the most of your first Uganda safari. From choosing the right type of safari to learning about the local wildlife and culture, there are many things to consider before you go. Now I suppose you are happy to leave us your contact so we can plan your itinerary ahead of time, will you?