There are a number of safari and tour operators who run trips in Uganda, many of whom use our Wildplaces properties, including our sister company, The Uganda Safari Company. Any of these operators can recommend an itinerary for you.
What is the perfect safari in Uganda?
This is a very personal thing. Our sister company specializes in tailor-made trips around the country (using our Wildplaces properties as well as other lodges and camps). Some concentrate on the primates (gorillas, chimps, monkeys), others focus on the astounding diversity of birds. Others are geared towards families or romantic safaris a-deux, while others are more activity and adrenaline oriented. Some are by road, some are by air, some use both. We’ve had guests arrive by helicopter, and we’ve had guests arrive on foot through the Bwindi forest (highly recommended, by the way).
How do I choose a safari operator?
We do believe that it’s worth paying a little more for the right company. There is inherent value in the right vehicles, the right guides, the right logistical support. Local knowledge and experience is important too. When booking a safari, ask questions. And remember this: There is a world of difference between a well-planned safari and a sight-seeing tour.
Why are Wildplaces properties not in the more ‘popular’ parks?
When we started in this business, we were invited to look at concessions in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls national parks. Rather than join in on a pre-determined tourism trail, we decided to aim for more remote, secluded areas to offer our guests a true wilderness and private experience.
How long should you stay in each property?
Again this depends on what you want and how long you have in Uganda. We feel that 3 nights is a good minimum per property which allows you to feel the rhythm of each individual lodge or camp and enjoy what each area has to offer: boat trips, guided walks, community visits, game drives, sundowner excursions, breakfast in the bush. You may want to go gorilla tracking one day and kick back and relax the next. This is your holiday. For many, a safari in Africa is a once-in-a-lifetime thing, and you want to get it right. We want to get it right, too.
What about children?
A safari can be a life-changing experience for a child. We don’t believe that it is an adult-only domain. Our children grew up in this environment and it has definitely enriched who they are today. It’s important to remember that a safari is not a wildlife documentary – there is a lot of sitting and waiting and watching, but the rewards are tremendous. We have had children of all ages on safari at our lodges. Please note, however, that there is a minimum age of 15 for gorilla tracking. We are happy to provide alternative activities for children while others are tracking. Further, we do not recommend Apoka for very young children (5 and under). The lodge is build among rocks and cliffs and the wildlife frequently wander through the property.
