Arrival in Entebbe and the Journey to Murchison Falls

The moment I stepped off the plane in Entebbe, I was greeted by the warm, humid air of Uganda, a sensation that always fills me with excitement and anticipation. This time, I was embarking on a 9-day safari that promised to be both thrilling and enlightening. After a day spent soaking in the serene beauty of Lake Victoria, I met with Sherinah, the organizer from Entebbe Safaris, over a delightful cup of tea. We discussed the itinerary for the days ahead, and I could feel the thrill of adventure bubbling within me.

The following morning, our guide Hussein arrived with a minibus, ready to whisk us away to our first destination: Murchison Falls National Park. The drive was filled with the vibrant sights and sounds of Uganda, a country that never fails to captivate me with its natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Upon arrival, we embarked on a game drive that was nothing short of spectacular. Elephants, giraffes, and the elegant Uganda Kob roamed the savannah, their presence a testament to the park’s thriving ecosystem. The day culminated in a boat ride on the Nile River, where hippos and crocodiles lounged in the water, and a hike to the breathtaking Murchison Falls, where the Nile crashes through a narrow gorge with incredible force.

Fort Portal and the Majestic Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Our journey continued to Fort Portal, a city nestled amidst lush tea plantations. Here, we visited the local king’s palace, a cultural experience that offered a glimpse into the region’s rich history and traditions. The city itself was a charming blend of modernity and tradition, its streets clean and bustling with life.

But the true highlight awaited us in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Known for its dense rainforest and as a sanctuary for the endangered mountain gorillas, Bwindi was a place I had longed to visit. The trek through the forest was challenging yet exhilarating, each step bringing us closer to the gorillas. When we finally encountered a gorilla family, it was a moment of awe and reverence. Observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat was a humbling experience, one that reinforced my commitment to wildlife conservation and sustainable travel.

Lake Bunyonyi, Lake Mburo, and the Journey’s End

After the emotional high of the gorilla trek, we spent a relaxing day at Lake Bunyonyi, a tranquil haven surrounded by rolling hills. The lake’s calm waters and the gentle rustle of the breeze through the trees provided a perfect setting for reflection and rejuvenation.

Our adventure continued to Lake Mburo National Park, where we were greeted by herds of zebras and impalas. The park’s diverse wildlife also included the elusive eland antelopes, which we were fortunate to spot during a game drive. A mountain biking safari offered a unique perspective of the park, allowing us to explore its landscapes at a leisurely pace.

As our organized trip came to an end, we spent a few days by the River Nile in Jinja and Mukono, soaking in the beauty of Uganda’s landscapes and the warmth of its people. Reflecting on the journey, I was filled with gratitude for the experiences and the opportunity to witness the wonders of Uganda’s natural world. This safari was not just an adventure; it was a reminder of the importance of preserving these incredible ecosystems for future generations.