Author: Amakula African Safaris

Tea Plantation Tours in Uganda and Rwanda Tea plantation tours in Uganda and Rwanda offer a unique opportunity to explore the rich agricultural centers and cultural heritage of the East African nations. In Uganda, tours take place around Mount Elgon and the Rwenzori Mountains, giving sights on traditional and modern tea production methods and visitors can learn about sustainable farming practices, and engage with local communities. In Rwanda, tours take place in Northern and Western Provinces and tourists explore the full tea production process. Both countries are known for their high-quality tea, and plays a great role in their economies and local communities. Tea Plantations in Uganda Kyagalanyi tea estate. It is located near Mount Elgon where you walk through the tea gardens and see the tea processing from initial to final stage. It offers learning sessions about sustainable farming practices. Bujagali Tea estates. It is near the Bujagali Falls and gives opportunity to see how the tea plantation help local tourism. Kakira  tea estates. It is located near Jinja and provides greater agricultural experience to explorer tea production processes. Rubirizi tea estate. Located in western Uganda and help to learn about the impact of tea farming on locals. Gaharo tea estates. It is located in southwestern Uganda and help to interact with local workers and insight into their traditional methods. Mpanga tea estates. It is located in central Uganda and enable guided tours through the tea fields and processing sectors and gives facts about history of tea cultivation. Kigezi tea estate. It is located in southwestern Uganda and demonstrates tea-making processes. Wambizzi tea estate. Located in western Uganda and one can walk through the plantations and observe traditional tea picking and learn about local farming techniques. Kasese tea estates. Located in southwestern Uganda near the Rwenzori Mountains. Kyaka tea

Unveiling The Magical Experience At Lake Bunyonyi Lake Bunyonyi is located in southwestern Uganda in Kabale district near the border with Rwanda and known to be the deepest lake in Africa, having small little birds and for its beauty cultural heritage and diverse activities. It is the largest and highest of three small lakes like Lake Mutanda and Lake Mulehe in Kigezi highlands. The lake was formed about 18,000 years ago by a volcanic eruption blocking a valley in the Ruchiga Mountains. Accessibility to the Park By Road. The most common way to reach Lake Bunyonyi is by road. From Kampala, you can drive southwest through Masaka, Mbarara, and then Kabale. From Kabale town, it is a short drive to the lake. By Air. From Entebbe airport to Kihihi Airstrip or Kabale airstrip, followed by a short drive to Lake Bunyonyi. Best time to visit The best time to visit Lake Bunyonyi is during the dry seasons, which are from June to August and December to February. During these months, the weather is generally dry making it better for outdoor activities such as nature walks, boat safari and bird watching. Attractions include Birds and wildlife. It is a home for a variety of bird species and wildlife as well. Islands. There are 29 islands in Lake Bunyonyi, each with its own unique history and features. Cultural and historical sites. Engaging in cultural experiences such as visiting local villages, participating in traditional dances, and learning about the local way of life. Activities include Bird Watching. Lake Bunyonyi is home to various bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Cultural Visits. Involves visiting local communities around the lake to experience the culture of the Bakiga people, known for their traditional farming practices and vibrant dances. Island visit. It involves visiting

Kampala City Tour Kampala is known to be the capital city of Uganda and has the largest population of people of over 2,000,000 people. It was a hunting ground for Impalas (The hill of impalas) due to valleys, hills that could let the antelopes to stay thus getting its name as Kampala in 1980. It was initially built on 7 hills i.e. Kololo, Nsambya, Mengo, Rubaga, Kibuli, Old Kampala and Namirembe hills (City of seven hills) but now it covers over 30 hills and it is situated in the southern part of the country and north of Lake Victoria. Kampala is famous in cultural, Religious and historical heritage like Kasubi tombs (burial grounds of Buganda kings), Ndere cultural center, Bahai temple, Gaddafi Mosque, Uganda martyrs’ shrine and Uganda museum. The weather in Kampala is ecofriendly warm and tropical rainforest climate almost throughout the year due to its location along the equator and it is a great city where one can embrace culture. People are ecofriendly and it has a hospitable environment to both locals and foreign visitors. Kampala is Uganda’s historical, religious, commercial centers and the official seat of government power and close neighbor to Entebbe airport where most of the forex bureau, Insurance companies, banks, government offices, shopping malls, and hotels are located. Although Luganda is the most spoken language in the city but English is the official language of Uganda at large and at least everyone can speak and understand the language. There are many people in the city because it is where a variety of opportunities, better social services like good schools, hospitals are found and many actions take place as well. For a 1-day city tour in Kampala, one can be able to embrace him or herself with cultural, religious, historical and educational centers where one can

Coffee Plantation Tours in Rwanda Coffee Plantation Tours: Rwanda is a small land locked country in eastern Africa. German missionaries introduced coffee trees in Rwanda in 1904, it became one of the country’s cash crop and its production became an integral part of Rwanda’s economy to support rural communities and contributing to the country’s development. Rwandan coffee has experienced a resurgence earning international recognition and becoming a source of pride for the nation. Rwanda coffee is grown in the high altitude between 4,000 and 5,000 feet above sea level along with volcanic soils, cool climate and abundant rainfall for coffee cultivation and usually planted in between March and May and harvested between May and September and the annual coffee related events and festivals like Rwanda national Barista Championship have showcase in vibrancy and passion of Rwanda’s coffee community. Rwanda offers a range of coffee tourism experiences to suit different preferences. Coffee Growing Regions in Rwanda Kivu region: It is the most abundant of Rwanda’s five coffee producing regions with rich volcanic soils and green hills that yield earthy, nice coffees with a dark roast. The coffee here grows in Gisenyi, Nyamasheke, Kibuye, Cyanungu and Butare. Virunga region: It is a long volcanic mountain that boarders Congo and Uganda and an area where coffee is planted is elevated of up to 7000 feet and also has Virunga coffee company as a reputable dealer of the Rwandan coffee. Akagera region: It is characterized with rich fertile soils and low mountains that encourage coffee growing. It also has a washing station that helps in the process of removing coverings on the coffee bean. Muhazi region: It is a good water source for coffee trees making them produce better coffee beans. Kizi rift region: It is located in central Rwanda and it grows lovely

 Adventurous Visit To Serengeti National Park Serengeti National Park is a large park in northern Tanzania that stretches over 14763km2 and it is located in in eastern Mara region and northeastern Simiyu region. Its boarders Ngoro Ngoro in the south and Masai Mara in the north creating the greater Serengeti ecosystem and contains over 1,500,000 hectares of savanna. It was established in 1940 and well known for the largest annual animal migration in the world of over 1.5 million blue wildebeest and 250,000 zebras along with smaller herds of Thompson’s gazelle and Elands. The park is also a home to the largest lion population in Africa and it is under threat from deforestation population ranching. It is undoubtedly the best-known wildlife sanctuary in the world and is therefore unequaled for its natural beauty and scientific value. The park was named after the Masai local word Siringet that means an open endless plain and had no elephants in the past until recent Elephants came to the park from neighboring reserves due to population increase and destruction of animal habitants hence ending up in Serengeti national park and its population can only be experienced on Serengeti safaris and tours. The Serengeti ecosystem is one of the oldest on earth characterized with climate, vegetation and fauna and it consists of three sections i.e. Seronera Valley: It consists of classic savanna, Acacias and wildlife. Western corridor: This is marked by Grumeti River, dense bushes and more forests. North (Labu area): It meets Kenya’s Masai mara reserve and is least visited section. Attractions in Serengeti national park Masai Mara people: It is a home for Masai Mara people whose tribe and traditional practices have barely been touched just like the park its self and they carry out their rituals and practice that make them exciting.

Mount Bisoke Hiking Mount Bisoke is located in Virunga Mountains of Central Africa. It offers a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience for adventure lovers. Rising to an elevation of 3,711 meters (12,175 feet), it straddles the border between Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo, making it accessible from Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. Hiking Mount Bisoke promises stunning views of the surrounding volcanic landscape, Crater Lake at the summit, and an opportunity to encounter rare mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Planning Your Hike Before embarking on a hike up Mount Bisoke, careful planning is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here is what you need to know: Permits and Guides To hike Mount Bisoke, you will need a permit, which can be obtained through the Rwanda Development Board or licensed tour operators. Permits often include the services of a knowledgeable guide, crucial for navigating the trails and providing insights into the local flora, fauna, and volcanic history. Physical Fitness The hike to Mount Bisoke’s summit is considered moderately challenging, typically taking 4-6 hours to ascend and 3-4 hours to descend. It involves steep terrain; muddy paths (especially during the rainy season), Prior physical fitness and acclimatization to altitude are beneficial. Weather Conditions Volcanoes National Park experiences a temperate climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from 7oC to 20oC (45oF to 68oF). The dry season (June to September) offers clearer views, while the wet season (March to May and October to November) brings lush vegetation but increased rainfall, affecting trail conditions. What to Pack Packing appropriately ensures you are prepared for the challenges and changes in weather during the hike. Here is a detailed list of essentials: Clothing    1. Layered Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, a lightweight insulated jacket or fleece, and a waterproof, breathable outer shell are essential for

Ultimate Adventures in Amboseli National Park Amboseli national park is a renowned wildlife sanctuary located in southern Kenya, near the border with Tanzania. It is famous for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and its large elephant herds. Here are the details about the park. Access to the Park By Road: From Nairobi, it takes about 4-5 hours by road. The main route is via the Nairobi-Arusha road through Namanga (240km) or via the Emali-Loitokitok road (228km). Several safari operators offer tours and transport to the park. By Air: There are daily flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Amboseli’s airstrips (Amboseli and Kimana). Charter flights are also available from other parts of Kenya. Attractions in Amboseli National Park  1. Mount Kilimanjaro: This is the highest mountain in Africa located near the border of Kenya and Tanzania. It stands at a height of 5,895 meters (19,341 feet). It is a dormant stratovolcano composed of three cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. The mountain is renowned for its snow-capped peak and diverse ecosystems ranging from tropical rainforests to alpine deserts. Kilimanjaro is a popular climbing destination, attracting thousands of trekkers annually, with routes like Marangu, Machame, and Lemosho. The mountain’s summit, Uhuru peak, offers breathtaking views and a significant sense of achievement for climbers.  2. Wildlife: The Park is renowned for its large elephant herds and diverse wildlife. The park is home to lions, cheetahs, buffaloes, zebra, giraffes, wildebeests, and hippos. It also hosts over 400 bird species, including pelicans, kingfishers, and raptors. The park’s swamp and open plains offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities year-round.  3. Swamps: The swamps in Amboseli national park, primarily the Enkongo Narok and Olokenya swamps, are fed by underground rivers from Mount Kilimanjaro. These lush, green areas attract a variety of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and numerous bird

Gorilla Trekking Vs Habituation in Uganda Gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation in Uganda offer unique, thrilling, and deeply enriching experiences, allowing visitors to closely observe one of the world’s most majestic and endangered animals in their natural habitat. These activities are primarily conducted in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which are home to the endangered mountain gorillas. You can book your permits for this safari with Amakula African Safaris Ltd which is a licensed tour operator. Gorilla Trekking Gorilla trekking is a guided hike through the dense forests of Uganda to see habituated mountain gorilla families. The trekking experience can vary in duration, ranging from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family groups. Preparation Permits: Obtaining a gorilla trekking permit is mandatory. These permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and are limited in number to minimize environmental impact and stress on the gorillas. The cost of a permit is $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for EAC citizens. Physical Fitness: Trekking can be physically demanding due to the mountainous terrain and dense vegetation. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Gear: Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect against insect bites and thorny plants, rain gear, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a walking stick, and a backpack with enough water and snacks. The Trekking Experience Briefing: The day starts with a briefing by park rangers on the trekking guidelines and safety precautions. Each group consists of a maximum of eight trekkers. The Hike: Here experienced guides and armed rangers for safety accompany Trekkers. The trek involves navigating through dense forest, steep slopes, and sometimes muddy trails. Gorilla Encounter: Upon locating the gorilla family, visitors spend up to

Rwanda Gorilla Safaris Rwanda, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills”, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and most notably, its mountain gorillas. Rwanda gorilla safaris offer a unique and life-changing experience for wildlife lovers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike. These safaris take place primarily in the Volcanoes national park, located in the northwest of the country. You can book your gorilla permit through Amakula African Safaris Ltd. Here is some information on what you can expect from a gorilla safari in Rwanda, including logistics, experience, conservation efforts, and more. The Experience of a Lifetime The main highlight of a Rwanda gorilla safari is the opportunity to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. These critically endangered animals are found in the Virunga Mountains, which span three countries: Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Rwanda’s Volcanoes national park is home to about a third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it a prime destination for gorilla trekking. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda involves hiking through dense forests, steep slopes, and sometimes muddy terrain to locate a gorilla family. The Trek can last anywhere from one to several hours, depending on the location of the gorillas, which changes daily as they move in search of food. Once the gorillas are found, visitors are allowed to spend one hour observing them from a close but safe distance. This hour provides an unparalleled opportunity to watch gorillas interact, play, groom, and feed, all while being mindful of their space and natural behavior. Permits and Regulations To participate in a gorilla safari in Rwanda, you must obtain a permit, which is regulated by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). As of 2024, the cost of a gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda is $1,500 per person. The high

Tips for An African Safari Booking an African safari can be a once-time-in-a-lifetime adventure, so it is important to plan carefully. Below are the top 10 tips that you can consider while booking your African safari: 1. Choose the Right               Destination Countries: Some of the popular countries that you can visit in Africa include; Kenya (mainly visited for Masai Mara national park and Amboseli national park), Tanzania (mainly visited for great Wildebeest migration in Serengeti national park), Uganda (known for gorilla trekking activity). Tourists also usually visit other common destinations like Rwanda, Namibia, Zambia, South Africa and Botswana. Each of these countries listed above provides a unique tourist attraction that may not be found in the other countries. Parks and Reserves: Each country has famous parks that tourists prefer visiting like the Serengeti (Tanzania), Masai Mara (Kenya), Kruger national park (South Africa), and Okavango Delta (Botswana). There is also Bwindi Impenetrable national park (Uganda) and Volcanoes national park (Rwanda). 2. Decide on the Type         of Safari Budget, Mid-range or Luxury: It is very good to note the kind of safari to opt for depending on your budget. Luxury safaris offer high-end accommodations and services; mid-range safaris provide accommodations that are very good but not so luxurious. While for the budget safaris can still provide great experiences though the accommodation facilities may not be so pleasing. Mode of Transport: Get to know whether you will prefer travelling via road or domestic flights to these parks in case of long journeys. That is, if you can endure long drives then you can go in for the road trips while those who are not comfortable can decide to opt for a domestic flight to the destination. 3. Best Time to Visit Weather and Wildlife