Walking Safaris

Why Choose a Walking Safari in Uganda?

1. Up-Close Encounters with Nature
   On foot, you’ll experience the smaller wonders of the wild—tracks left by animals, medicinal plants used by indigenous people, and the intricate details of ecosystems that are often missed from a vehicle.

2. A Sense of Adventure
   Walking through the bush evokes a sense of adventure and discovery. Every step brings the thrill of unpredictability, whether it’s spotting a herd of elephants in the distance or hearing the call of a nearby bird.

3. Guided by Experts
   Our experienced guides are skilled naturalists who will teach you how to read animal tracks, identify plant species, and understand the behaviors of wildlife. Their knowledge adds depth to your safari experience.

4. Physical and Mental Connection
   Walking allows you to fully engage with your surroundings, fostering mindfulness and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. It’s also a great way to stay active during your trip!

5. Exclusive Access to Remote Areas
   Some of Uganda’s most pristine and untouched areas are only accessible on foot. A walking safari gives you access to hidden gems that few tourists ever see.

Best National Parks for Walking Safaris in Uganda

Lake Mburo National Park

• Highlights: Known as Uganda’s best park for walking safaris, Lake Mburo offers diverse landscapes, including open savannahs, woodlands, and wetlands.
• Activities include guided walks through acacia forests, tracking zebras and impalas, and canoeing on the lake.
• The park’s compact size makes it ideal for exploring on foot without long distances between sightings.

Kidepo Valley National Park

• Highlights: One of Africa’s most remote and rugged parks, Kidepo offers breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife.
• Guided walks take you through semi-arid plains, rocky outcrops, and lush valleys, where you may encounter giraffes, ostriches, and even cheetahs.
• The isolation of the park ensures a peaceful and private experience.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

• Highlights: While famous for gorilla trekking, Bwindi also offers incredible walking opportunities through its ancient rainforest.
• Walks range from short nature trails to full-day hikes, where you can spot monkeys, birds, and rare plant species.
• The forest’s dense canopy creates a mystical atmosphere perfect for introspection and discovery.

Murchison Falls National Park

• Highlights: Combine a walking safari with a visit to the iconic Murchison Falls for a well-rounded experience.
• Guided walks along the Nile Riverbank allow you to observe hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds up close.
• Short hikes to viewpoints offer stunning panoramas of the falls and surrounding landscape.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

• Highlights: Explore the less-visited areas of this popular park on foot, such as the Kyambura Gorge or the Ishasha sector.
• Walking safaris here focus on birdwatching, primate encounters, and exploring volcanic crater lakes.
• The variety of habitats ensures a rich and rewarding experience.

Types of Walking Safaris

1. Short Nature Walks (1–2 Hours)
   Ideal for beginners or those with limited time, these walks introduce you to the basics of the ecosystem and provide opportunities to spot smaller wildlife like birds, insects, and reptiles.

2. Full-Day Hikes
   For more adventurous travelers, full-day hikes delve deeper into the wilderness. You’ll cover greater distances and have higher chances of encountering larger mammals like elephants and buffaloes.

3. Birdwatching Walks
   Uganda is a birder’s paradise, and walking safaris are one of the best ways to observe its 1,000+ bird species. Expert guides will help you identify colorful and rare birds along the way.

4. Cultural & Community Walks
   Combine wildlife exploration with cultural immersion by visiting local villages near the parks. Learn about traditional practices, crafts, and conservation efforts from community members.

5. Multi-Day Trekking Adventures
   For seasoned hikers, multi-day treks through remote areas like Rwenzori Mountains or Kidepo Valley offer a true back-to-nature experience. Spend nights camping under the stars and waking up to the sounds of the wild.

Best Time for a Walking Safari

• Dry Season (June–September & December–February):

  • Trails are dry and easier to navigate, reducing the risk of slipping or getting stuck in mud.
  • Wildlife congregates around water sources, increasing the likelihood of sightings.
  • Cooler mornings and evenings make longer walks more comfortable.

• Wet Season (March–May & October–November):

  • Lush greenery and blooming flowers create vibrant and picturesque scenery.
  • Birdlife is particularly abundant during this season, making it ideal for birdwatching walks.
  • However, some trails may be muddy or inaccessible due to heavy rains.