Reasons to book a Safari With a Local Tour Operator

5 Reasons to Book a Safari with a local Tour Operator

At Engabi Tours and Travel a local tour Operator in Uganda, we believe that not every trip to Africa requires booking through a local tour operator or travel agent but for many tours and trips, you can save yourself considerable time and effort by booking with a local tour operator company that specializes in travel to your chosen destination.

Many tourists believe that they can save money by booking independently an East African safari tour. However we believe that  while  tour companies certainly add their commission to the overall cost of the trip the discounts they can pass along to their clients through their relationships with properties and ground operators often makes up for it. In addition to the saving of some money, tour operators who specialize in a destination travel use the same lodges and public transport options that you might choose but have the local expertise to know which ones are safe.

Below are our Tested Reasons Why you should use a Local Tour operator

1. It Ensures Personal Safety

Traveling alone to a new destination especially East Africa can be daunting. You are visiting a new place and you don’t know what to expect in terms of language barriers, Visas, Vaccinations, Currencies, food, transport means and above all safety in a form of political instability and natural disaster or diseases which is often a genuine concern. But remember that a good tour operator stays up-to-date with elections, weather hazards, and high crime areas and is always informed. For example a small skirmish in South Western Uganda may not make headline news in the major news outlets but a specialized tour operator will know about it and can redirect your safari to keep you safe.

Therefore when you book your safari with a local tour operator on your East Africa Safari to Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya or Tanzania you are given the peace of mind that you will be taken care of from beginning to end. You are sure you have your accommodation booked, your transportation means sorted and you are not worried about the Weather, instability, crime or the quality of safari roads.

Evidently, there’s a lot that goes into planning a safari, and it is very time consuming to figure it all out on your own the reason you need the care and guidance of a local tour operator who will enhance your overall travel experience and show you the best parts of each destination, help you to navigate any language barriers and give informed recommendations of where to visit during your stay.

2. It Eases Communication and ensures responsible travelling.

While being exposed to new languages is such an amazing part of traveling, it can be challenging when you are attempting to communicate only to be faced with a language barrier which in most cases might lead you into offending the local communities, endangering conservation or even you missing out on some services or activities just because you can’t communicate but act out every question you have. With the services of a tour operator and a dedicated English speaking local tour guide, you will be easily shown around, your surroundings explained deeply and all your questions that you may have will be answered. It makes it fun and much smoother experience to have someone available to assist you throughout your trip.

 3. It Saves Time and Money

Booking an East Africa Safari tour  independently can get expensive without discounts on accommodation, transportation and some activities. It can also be time-consuming when coordinating all of the travel plans, activities and itineraries on your own. However when you book your East Africa Safari  through a tour operator, you get the added benefit of having a one-stop shop, which includes comfortable and discounted accommodations ,Transportation means, and extensive  sightseeing activities with comprehensive itineraries all at a great value.

4.It ensure Stress free East Africa Safari tour Planning

Booking an East Africa Safari tour is exciting but can also be stressful as there are lots of factors to consider and planning it all alone can be exhausting! For a truly relaxing travel experience, we believe using a local tour operator will alleviate the stress of planning a safari tour as the tour operator takes care of all the details for your next East Africa safari tour including internal flights, accommodations, Ground transportation and comprehensive itineraries. All you do is select which East Africa Safari package suits you best and with just a few clicks you are all set.

5.It Ensures Responsible travel and helps to learn new cultures

One of the most exciting parts of going on an East Africa Safari is experiencing and learning about new cultures and we believe a local tour operator can recommend the best local and  immersive experiences if you book with them.

Additionally a local tour operator on your East Africa safari can help and guide you on how to travel responsibly. Booking your East Africa Safari through a local tour operator will ensure that your trip doesn’t have a negative impact on the people, wildlife or landscapes that you encounter along the safari. If you intend to support communities or conservation on your East Africa Safari, an experienced tour operator will be able to help you choose on-the-ground communities and small scale businesses that are locally owned and are environmentally conscious.

Are you interested in learning more about East Africa Safari Packages? Contact us for information and Price quotes

Best Time To Visit Serengeti National Park

Best Time To Visit Serengeti National Park-Month by Month Guide 2024

The Best time to visit Serengeti National Park is from January-February or from June through to October and these are considered to be the best Months and time to visit Serengeti National Park. However tourists can Plan their Serengeti National Park Tour based on the movement of the great migration.

Best Times to visit Serengeti National Park Month by Month Guide

January to end March

During this time of the year, volumes of wildlife gather on the southern Serengeti and Ndutu plains. This is the best time to experience the great migration characterized with the flat green plains and uninterrupted views and best opportunities to watch the massive movement of wildlife. Tourists should note that from January to March an estimated 8,000 calves are born into their various wildebeest, zebra, Thomson’s gazelle and eland families. The newborns are fragile and easy targets for predators and tourists will watch Lions, cheetahs, hyenas and even jackals scramble for opportunities to fill their bellies.

July to September

Around this time of the year, the great migration safaris hold the excitement of herds crossing the Mara River. Watch the animals enter the water as individuals are taken by crocodiles. Their sacrifice secures the survival of this extraordinary journey of species.

Travelers should note that these two periods (January to March and July to September) are the best times to experience the most thrilling migration activity.

From April to June, once the bulk of their youngsters have found their feet, the herds continue their journey north in search of new grass. The long rains of April and May provide enough water and grazing for the animals to spread out over the entire southern Serengeti plains. From east to west they split up into smaller herds in a slow but definite move towards the north.

From October to December the herds are scattered throughout the greater Masai Mara conservancies (often even into Loliondo) and the hills and valleys of the north-eastern Serengeti. At this time of year it’s not uncommon to find animals in front of your camp in the evening. However, they will have disappeared by the following morning, having continued their journey southwards. This leg of the migration happens in stages and the herds split up into even smaller herds and groups.

May and June

In April and May rains start flowing in the Serengeti on a daily basis to an extent of closing many seasonal roads surrounding the area.

Therefore May and June make it into the top three best possible times to see wildebeest  herds on migration safaris. In June and July herds are harder to track on migration safaris, with the limited road network and private Grumeti R eserves concession in the way.

October to December

By October, the animals have eaten all the grass in the Mara plains and are propelled to venture south once more to find fresh grazing. Remarkably, they arrive on the plains at Ndutu a few days after the first rain of the season has fallen. The herd leaves decent-enough grazing at Lobo and the Bologonja Springs and set off southwards again across the eastern and central savanna woodland.

Here, the animals spread out to areas with water and grazing that allow them to be within striking distance of the Ndutu lakes and plains. During this time predators often lurk in the Lobo grass.

Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Safari guide Month by Month 

Most first time travelers think that the great wildebeest migration only happens once a year, but the migration is in fact an all year round event with each time of year offering a unique migration experience.

Below is a Month by Month Serengeti migration guide on what to expect each month in terms of weather, wildlife, migratory movements, predator interactions and river crossings to ensure you get the most out of your safari trip to see the great wildebeest migration.

• In January there is a lot of movement from north to south as the herds await the first Serengeti rains and like June, it is a hard month to predict because the herds’ movements depend on when it starts to rain on the southern plains. Female wildebeest are carrying calves and are almost ready to give birth the reason the herds move swiftly in search of favorable grasslands to provide sustenance for the arrival of their young.

 

• Around February the calving season starts and this is a period when wildebeest, zebra and other migratory animals give birth to their offspring and once the calves are born the herds don’t move much hence a high chance of witnessing a wildebeest birth and predators is high.

 

• Noted as the last month mobile camps operate, March is fairly wet with lush and green grasslands and as a result wildebeest herds move slowly and predictably to able to feed the calves. This also makes it possible to have predators such as lions and leopards around.

 

• April is wet in the Serengeti with long rains that happen mostly in the evenings with clear days the reason you should carry with you a raincoat. The herds are starting to move a little bit faster as the calves and foals get mobile the reason we highly recommend April as one of the best times to see wildebeest herds.

 

• May is a great time for wildlife action photography because at this time of the year the herds are gathering speed and the calves are fully operational and moving quickly to the Serengeti’s western corridor. However May is the wettest Month in Serengeti and roads tend to get slippery and tricky to navigate.

 

• June is traditionally the Grumeti River crossing period though the intensity and drama of the crossing depends on the water levels of Grumeti River which occassionaly sees raised levels like the Mara River sees in July and August. Expect a rewarding experience in June as the herds will be spread out.

 

• July marks the start of the Mara River crossings as well as mating season in the Serengeti and since it’s a dry season with a more arid Serengeti, the wildebeest herds begin moving faster in search of water and greener grass making their way across Grumeti River and Mara River where crocodiles are encountered.

 

• August is arguably the best month to see the dramatic Mara River crossings in the Serengeti or Masai Mara and it’s the time the dry season kicks into overdrive. The herds are continuing their search for greener grass making their way across the crocodile infested Mara River.

 

• September is one last chance to see the epic Mara River crossings in the Serengeti or Masai Mara and around this time its more hot and dry in both Serengeti and Masai Mara. Most of the wildebeests have already crossed into the greater Masai Mara area and are enjoying the lush green resources before venturing North wards.

 

• Around October the weather is milder as the dry season approaches its climax. The Month is a good time to see the wildebeest herds move back into the Serengeti through the Loliondo in the East.

 

• In November early rains start to fall with cooler weather and the wildebeest herds are now in Serengeti Lobo, Seronera Valley and Mbuze Mawe therefore a good time to see the wildebeest in the Serengeti.

 

• December is a busy and wet month and the wildebeests are moving quicker towards the south plains hence being another time you can track the herds in the Serengeti.

 

INQUIRE NOW for information, inspiration or a Price Quotation of the different Migration safari Itineraries below:

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8 Days Uganda Gorillas Tanzania Migration Safari

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Tanzania Weather description

Tanzania safari weather & Serengeti/Northern Circuit Average weather and climate description

As a first time Tanzania safari goer,you need to be sure of the Tanzania safari weather- temperature, rainfall  and the average Serengeti safari weather during your planning phase of a Tanzania trip. Tanzania is a country that lies just south of the equator and overlooks the Indian Ocean. Much of the country is covered by a plateau which is characterized by a subtropical and tropical climate and this is where a large number of world-famous tourist attractions like Serengeti national park and Ngorongoro conservation area are found covered with enormous flora and fauna. The thin coastal stretch of Tanzania is hot and humid throughout the year, especially from November to April whereas June-August period (kipupwe) is the coolest of the year and is dry almost everywhere.

To better understand the  rain pattern, the country is divided into four zones namely the  north and the east where there are two rainy seasons (one less intense and known as short rains season (vuli) between October and December  and the other more intense and known as long rains season (masika) from March to May with a peak in April). In January and February, in the period between the two rainy seasons (kiangazi), the weather is hot and sultry at least below a thousand meters (3,300 feet).

In the far north-west, the two rainy seasons are practically connected and it actually rains even in January and February when rainfall amounts to 100/150 millimeters (4/6 inches) per month depending on the area. Therefore in this region there is practically a single rainy season from October to May. Such a situation is also found in a few areas of the north-east and in particular, along the southern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Finally in the center and south, there is only one rainy season from December to April in the south and south-east and from November to April in the west.

When are the rainy seasons in Tanzania?

The tropical rains occur mainly in the form of downpours or thunderstorms in the afternoon, so in the morning the sky is often clear even during the rainy periods.

In Dar es Salaam, the largest city and the former capital of Tanzania which is located on the coast, there are mainly two rainy seasons and it’s hot all year round with a slightly hotter and wetter period from November to April when daytime temperatures are around 31/32 °C (88/90 °F) but with peaks of 35/36 °C (95/97 °F). Relative humidity is high especially in March and April(the rainiest months).

Below are the average temperatures of Dar es Salaam.

Month Jan       Feb      Mar      Apr      May     Jun       Jul        Aug     Sep      Oct      Nov     Dec

Min (°C)          24        23        23        22        21        19        18        18        18        20        21        23

Max (°C)         32        32        32        31        30        29        29        29        30        31        31        32

Min (°F)          75        73        73        72        70        66        64        64        64        68        70        73

Max (°F)          90        90        90        88        86        84        84        84        86        88        88        90

Dar es Salaam experiences a good amount of sunshine throughout the year except maybe in April (the wettest month)

.Sunshine Patterns of Dar es Salaam

Month Jan       Feb      Mar      Apr      May     Jun       Jul        Aug     Sep      Oct      Nov     Dec

Hours  8          8          7          5          7          7          7          9          8          9          8          8

The sea in Dar es Salaam is always warm enough for swimming and the water temperature ranges from 25 °C (77 °F) in August to 29 °C (84 °F) in the summer months.

The climate and the rain pattern in Dar es Salaam are similar in the Zanzibar Archipelago though it rains more in Zanzibar at about 1,600 mm (63 in) per year and up to 1,900 mm (75 in) on the northern island of Pemba.

In the north-east, we find Kilimanjaro Mountain the highest mountain in Africa towering at 5,895 meters (19,340 feet) high and have permanent snow above 5,000 meters (16,400 ft). On the slopes there are different climates and biomes depending on altitude as follows;

Between 1,800 and 2,800 meters (5,900 and 9,200 ft) we find the rainforest, between 2,800 and 4,000 meters (9,200 and 13,100 ft) we find a dry mountain vegetation and here temperature can drop below freezing (0 °C or 32 °F) at night, between 4,000 and 5,000 meters (13,000 and 16,500 ft) we find a cold desert but with very strong equatorial sun light during day and a cold weather at night and finally on the summit which is often above the cloud layer the temperature may drop to -15/-25 °C (5/-13 °F) at night.

Therefore we recommend climbing of Mt. Kilimanjaro in January, February and September and to avoid climbing Kilimanjaro Mountain during the months of April and May due to high rainfalls and frequent cloudiness. Some visitors choose the days of full moon, a phenomenon that occurs roughly once per month and during which the glaciers lit by the moon offer a wonderful view at night.

West of Kilimajaro Mountain, we find Mt. Meru towering at 4,565 meters (14,977 feet) high and at the foot of Mount Meru(1,400 meters/4,600 feet) of altitude we find the city of Arusha. Here, the temperature is pleasant all year round and  in fact the daily average temperature ranges from 19 °C (66 °F) between January and April to 14.5 °C (58 °F) in June and July. Sometimes, between November and March it can get hot during the day.

Nights are cool throughout the year especially from June to September when lows can drop below 10 °C (50 °F) while during the day the temperature fluctuates around 20/22 °C (68/72 °F).

Average Temperatures of Arusha

Month Jan       Feb      Mar      Apr      May     Jun       Jul        Aug     Sep      Oct      Nov     Dec

Min (°C)          10        10        11        13        11        8          9          8          8          10        10        10

Max (°C)         28        28        27        25        22        21        20        22        24        26        27        27

Min (°F)          50        50        52        55        52        46        48        46        46        50        50        50

Max (°F)          82        82        81        77        72        70        68        72        75        79        81        81

In the north –West of Arusha towards Lake Victoria and on the border with Kenya, we find the Serengeti National Park. Here the altitude varies between 1,100 and 2,000 meters (3,600/6,600 feet) and this area is famous for the savanna, a type of grassland which becomes greener and higher in the rainy season with rare trees such as the huge baobabs and animals such as rhinos, hippos, giraffes, elephants, lions, cheetahs, and leopards. The South-Eastern part of Serengeti is the driest part where trees are a rare.

Below are the average temperatures recorded in Serengeti at 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level.

Average temperatures of Serengeti National park

Month Jan       Feb      Mar      Apr      May     Jun       Jul        Aug     Sep      Oct      Nov     Dec

Min (°C)          16        16        16        16        16        15        14        15        15        16        16        16

Max (°C)         29        29        29        28        27        27        26        27        28        29        28        28

Min (°F)          61        61        61        61        61        59        57        59        59        61        61        61

Max (°F)          84        84        84        82        81        81        79        81        82        84        82        82

From Arusha to Serengeti you pass through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area which is rainier at least in the highest areas which exceed 2,000 meters (6,500 feet). The Ngorongoro lies in the far north-west and here thunderstorms can sometimes occur even in the dry season of January and February.

Average  temperatures of Ngorongoro Conservation area.

Month Jan       Feb      Mar      Apr      May     Jun       Jul        Aug     Sep      Oct      Nov     Dec

Min (°C)          10        10        10        11        10        8          8          8          8          9          10        10

Max (°C)         23        23        22        21        20        19        19        20        21        22        22        22

Min (°F)          50        50        50        52        50        46        46        46        46        48        50        50

Max (°F)          73        73        72        70        68        66        66        68        70        72        72        72

 Best Tanzania safari weather description

The best time to visit Tanzania as a whole runs from July to August since it is the coolest, the sunniest and driest of the year. June is a good month almost everywhere but in the north-east and on the island of Pemba the long rains can go on until this month (June). September is also a good month but at lower elevations it can be hot during the day. In October the season of the short rains begins in the north though there is usually little rain in the first half of the month though it can get hot at low altitudes.

In January the south is in full rainy season and for the Serengeti you can visit from June to September with a high preference for June which is the period of the wildebeest migration through the rivers and this is before the animals move to Kenya. January and February are also good months to visit Serengeti because you will be able to see the Wildebeest in the southern part towards the Olduvai Gorge.

What to Pack when going on a safari to Tanzania or while on a safari in Tanzania

While in inland areas in general, it’s better to dress in layers and to bring warmer clothes at high altitudes and lighter at low altitudes and in the warm season. You can also bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and a raincoat for the rain showers in the rainy periods. In parks and reserves you are advised to bring with you neutral-colored clothes and comfortable canvas shoes.

When going mountain climbing, you should bring hiking shoes,cold weather clothing(for the summit of Kilimanjaro) , synthetic and thermal long underwear, a fleece, a wind jacket, warm boots, sunglasses and sunscreen.

When going to the reef, you can bring snorkeling equipment including water shoes or rubber-soled shoes.

Between June and August (Winter), you should bring light clothing, a light scarf, light jacket and sweatshirt if you are visiting the coast (Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam) and Lakes Malawi and Tanganyika, light clothes for the day and a sweater and a jacket for the evening if you plan to visit Serengeti, Arusha, Lake Victoria or Dodoma and finally spring/autumn clothes with a jacket and sweater if you are visiting Ngorongoro conservation area

Between December to February (summer) you should bring light clothing made of natural fibers, a light sweatshirt for the evening and a light raincoat or umbrella if you are visiting the coast (Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam) and Lakes of Malawi and Tanganyika, additional jacket and sweater if you plan to visit Arusha and Serengeti and finally an additional down jacket,Jacket,hat raincoat and umbrella if you are visiting Ngorongoro.

Wondering which African Safari you should go on? Find below our suggested tours.

Gorilla tours

Combined Kilimanjaro climbing,gorillas,chimpanzees and Wildlife tour

Uganda safaris

East Africa Honey moon tour

 

Best time to Visit Tanzania

Best Time to visit Tanzania-When to Go on Safari in Tanzania

The best time to visit Tanzania is during the dry season of June all through to October however in general there is no right time or wrong time to go on a Tanzania Safari as wildlife can be seen at any time of the year and the best time to visit Tanzania entirely depends on one’s interest.

Simple Guide on When to Visit Tanzania

1. Between January and March is Wildebeest calving season and Serengeti national park attracts more predators such as lions, leopards among others in search of food hence this season becoming one of the best times to spot predators in the Serengeti national park.
2. Between June and July is the best time to witness the great wildebeest migration in large numbers in the Serengeti. However wildebeest migration can also be witnessed but not in large numbers in August till early November.
3. In January large numbers of migratory birds are arriving especially in Ngorongoro and Lake manyara and is the best time for birders to visit Tanzania as it increases chances of seeing variety of bird species. Tanzania Birding is also possible in November and May.
4. For Mountain climbers and hikes, the dry season of between and October is very favorable to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt.Meru.

All the above Tanzania safari activities can be done in the  various national game parks in mostly Northern circuit parks of Serengeti, Lake manyara, Tarangire and Ngorongoro.

Tourists should not forget that whereas Tanzania can be visited all year round, the dry season would be the best time for anyone planning to visit Tanzania or go on a safari in Tanzania. This season enables animal viewing because as the grass dries up and the water holes too therefore, the animals have to move around the park in search for water and pasture and in most cases the animals tend to gather in an area having water in the national park therefore they gather around water holes rendering it the best spot for animal viewing. It also provides the best opportunity to catch the predators as they wait on the small animals coming to drink water along the banks of the river.

CONTACT US to plan your Tanzania Safari Vacation

Top East African Safari Experiences.

Great Wildebeest migration

Gorilla trekking in Uganda

Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda

Adventure and wildlife activities in Murchison falls

Iby’Wachu village Cultural tour in Rwanda

Nyege Nyege Festival 2024

Nyege Nyege Festival 2024-Nyege Nyege Festival 2024 Tiickets & Booking

How much is Nyege Nyege festival Ticket 2024 ? & how do i buy Nyege Nyege festival Ticket ? are the questions that linger in every mind of a traveler bracing for November 2024 from 14th to 17th. Some even wonder how one can buy Nyege Nyege festival Tickets online.

November 2024 is the time of the year when streams will return to their source as party goers and music lovers come to play and get lost with power, kindness, love and moves.  They come together to celebrate music, culture and diversity and to celebrate each other in sound and nature at Nyege Nyege festival.

Born out of an act of sheer collective madness in the rainy season of 2015, Nyege Nyege festival is now considered the most important international music festival in East Africa for both its one of a kind curation and its unique East African party vibe. It takes place in Uganda at Nile Discovery Beach on the source of the River Nile from November 14th to November 17th .

This year’s edition of Nyege Nyege festival  which is widely considered one of the most famous musical gatherings of the 21^st Century in the world and will aim to continue showcasing African music in all of its dimensions to the world. It aims to include vital connections with Latin America and the Caribbean, explore secret sonic gateways, new voices and ancient traditions and attempt to leave you wondering what a festival just happened!

Online Tickets can be bought from the Nyege Nyege Website and Engabi Tours and Travel Ltd can help to book tickets for you and your friends.

What is the price of Nyege Nyege Music Festival Ticket 2024?

Wondering what is the price of Nyege Nyege festival Ticket! The prices for Nyege Nyege festival 2024 are as follows;

Non East African Citizens Festival Ticket/Pass costs 125$ valid from November 14th to November 18th

East African Citizens Festival Ticket/Pass costs 150,000UGX valid from November 14th to November 18th

Note that Engabi Tours and Travel charges a surcharge of 20 Percent to help book your ticket

Wondering  what other activities you can do before or after the Nyege Nyege music festival to get a memorable experience in Uganda!, Engabi Tours and Travel ltd has put together some Safari packages you can go for  before or after Nyege Nyege festival 2024 to get the full experience of the Pearl of Africa and below are some packages:

Popular Uganda safari Vacations itineraries

3 Days Uganda Gorilla trekking safari

3 Days Murchison falls safari

3 Days Kidepo Valley safari

3 Days Queen Elizabeth NP Safari

5 days Uganda safari

6 days Uganda safari

8 days Uganda safari

9 Days Uganda safari and Ssese islands beach safari

11 Days Uganda safari

12 Days Uganda safari

Popular Combined East Africa Safari tours, holidays and vacations packages.

8 days Uganda Tanzania safari

11 Days Uganda Rwanda safari

12 Days Uganda Tanzania safari through Rwanda

14 Days Uganda Rwanda and Tanzania safari

16 Days Uganda Rwanda and Congo safaris

16 Days Gorilla trekking Tanzania safari and Beach holiday

Contact us for Price Quotation or information and inspiration

What to Pack for a Tanzania safari

What to Pack & what clothes to wear for a Tanzania safari .

What can i pack for a Tanzania safari?. Having paid for your safari, transportation and accommodation  what clothes and shoes to pack for a Tanzania lingers in your mind. You now have to make sure that you have packed the right safari gear in terms of clothes,shoes,sun glasses,hats among others for your Tanzania safari trip. Safari clothes cut across all major national parks and reserves. The advice we have provided below is a Tanzania safari packing list and for Wildlife safaris across East Africa and therefore you might need more if you want to combine your safari with gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda as an additional.

Tanzania safari packing list

• Valid passport and Visa
• Photo copy of passport
• Airline ticket
• International health card with immunisations (yellow fever)
• Travel insurance
• Medical insurance
• US$ cash / travellers cheques (checks) / credit card
• Small lock to lock zippers together
• Sleeping bag for adventure camping
• Small diary and pen
• Clothing
• Non-coloured clothing
• 4 – 5 short sleeve t-shirts
• 2 – 3 pairs of shorts
• 2 sweaters or sweatshirts
• Socks
• Underwear
• Hankies
• 2 pairs of casual trousers
• 2 long sleeve shirts
• Lightweight rain jacket
• Fleece jacket
• Walking shoes
• Lightweight shoes
• Swimsuit
• Warm sleeping outfit for camping safaris
• Wide-brimmed hat
• Accessories
• Toilet kit (soap, tooth brush, toilet articles, handy wipes, etc. It’s best to bring small trail size containers.)
• Towel
• Sun screen and lip protection (SPF 30)
• Ziploc bags to protect camera, binoculars and other such things from dust
• Money belt
• Insect repellant spray
• First aid
• Aspirin
• Imodium
• Valoid
• Painkillers
• Bandages
• Throat lozenges
• Eye drops
• Other accessories
• Camera, lenses and extra film, where applicable (ASA 200 film recommended)
• Binoculars
• Pocket knife
• Insect repellent
• Reading and writing material
• Snacks
• Sweets
• Nuts
• Video camera
• Video tapes (if applicable)
• Battery packs
• Tri-pod

Contact us for your “Hakuna Matata” Tanzania safari, Uganda safari,Rwanda safari and Congo safari

Different Tanzania and combined safari packages;

3 days Tanzania safari

5 days Tanzania safari 

4 days Tanzania safari

6 days Tanzania migration safari

8 days Tanzania safari

8 days Rwanda Tanzania safari

14 days Rwanda Uganda and Tanzania safari 

Tanzania National Parks Entrance Fees

Tanzania National Parks entrance Fees-TANAPA Fees 2022/2023

Tanzania National Parks entrance fees for Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire and Manyara Parks are charges set by  TANAPA(Tanzania National Parks Authority) and NCAA (Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority) that tourists are required to pay in order to access the parks and take part in different Tanzania safari wildlife viewing activities. Tanzania National Parks entrance fees is something any traveler heading to Tanzania should endeavor to know during the planning of their trips. The fees can be paid through the agent or at the gates using credit cards(Master cards and Visa cards)

In addition to Tanzania park entrance fees, tourists who overnight in accommodations or camps inside the park are required to pay Concession fees.

Updated Tanzania National Parks entrance fees 2022/2023

Park Fees (Adults)

Arusha National park-     $59 (High Season), $53.10 (Low Season)

Kilimanjaro National Park-$82.60 (High Season), 82.60 (Low Season)

Lake Manyara National Park-$59 (High Season), $53.10 (Low Season)

Ngorongoro Conservation area-$60

Serengeti National park- $82.60 (High Season), $70.80 (Low Season)

Tarangire National Park- $59 (High Season), $53.10 (Low Season)

Park Fees for Children

Arusha National Park-$17.70

Kilimanjaro National park-$23.60

Lake Manyara national park-$17.70

Ngorongoro conservation area-$20

Serengeti National Park-$23.60

Tarangire national park-$17.70

Concession Fees

Arusha National Park-N/A

Kilimanjaro national park-N/A

Lake Manyara National park-N/A

Ngorongoro conservation area-$70.80

Serengeti national park- $70.80 (High Season) $59.0 (Low Season)

Tarangire National park-n/a

Special Campsite fees

Arusha National Park-N/A

Kilimanjaro national park-N/A

Lake Manyara National park-N/A

Ngorongoro conservation area-$70.80

Serengeti national park- $70.80 (High Season) $59.0 (Low Season)

Tarangire National park-n/a

Ngorongoro crater fees-$295

Ranger fee -$17.70

Oldupai gorge-Adults($35.40) Children($11.80)

Letoli foot prints- Adults($23.60) Children ($11.80)

Mountain Cabins

Mt. Kilimanjaro-$70.80

Mt.Meru-$35.40

Other fees

Photography fees-$100

Over speeding(all types of Vehicles)-$100

For Park Fees, the ‘High Season’ runs from 01/07/21 to 14/03/22 and 16/05/22 to 30/06/22; and the ‘Low Season’ from 15/03/22 to 15/05/22.
For both Concession and Camping fees, the ‘High Season’ runs from 01/07/21 to 30/09/21; and the ‘Low Season’ runs from 01/10/21 to 30/06/22.

Note: Tanzania national park fees and rates published by TANAPA and NCAA may be subject to changes any time.

Contact us to book your Tanzania migration safari ,Gorilla safari, wildlife viewing safari and cultural tours.

Other Tanzania safari packages to book;

3 Days Tanzania safari

5 days Tanzania safari

6 Days Tanzania Migration safari

14 days Rwanda Uganda and Tanzania safari

CONTACT US For a Tanzania Safari Quote, information or inspiration

 

Why you should become a volunteer in Uganda on a Safari holiday.

Volunteer and Safari in Africa for free during your Volunteering Gorilla and wildlife safari holidays in Uganda, Rwanda or Tanzania

Volunteer and Safari in Africa for free: East Africa is a region under change and a lot has been achieved in terms of development. Through our safari packages that combine safari and holiday experiences with volunteering experience at a request, we give you an exciting opportunity to volunteer and safari in Africa for free in a humanitarian and environmental cause through which you can leave a lasting change among communities and individuals across East Africa. If you are planning a safari trip or holiday to Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania  and would like to volunteer during or after your safari  in Uganda, Rwanda or Tanzania , we have some planned volunteer and  safari trips in Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania  for you that would interest your charity soul.

Going for a Uganda, Rwanda or Tanzania  Safari holiday is a great way to escape from the hustle and bustle but i think you don’t actually get to explore the continent and its people to the fullest without being a  volunteer in Uganda, Rwanda or Tanzania.

Many tourists and travelers wonder what kind of opportunities are presently available for them to take part in and at Engabi Tours and Travel we believe you can spend part of your Uganda, Rwanda or Tanzania safari time taking part in different life changing activities in East Africa like building new relationships, life empowering buildings such as classrooms, medical facilities, wells, latrines, or teaching in a classroom, tutoring and much more.

Volunteer and Safari opportunities in Africa on a Uganda, Rwanda or Tanzania safari tour.

• Teaching Opportunities especially the English language
• Tutoring in areas of Math, English, Reading, Writing and other basics.
• Improving on Libraries and Reading skills
• Sports Clinics of all kinds
• Community Projects such women in business empowerment, literacy projects and ethical trainings among others.
• Medical Volunteering
• Slum Children Projects
• Vocational Training
• Vacation Bible Schools
• .Construction Work and Building

Still thinking about it!! Below are some amazing reasons why you should involve yourself in a Volunteer and Safari program in Uganda, Rwanda or Tanzania  with Engabi Tours and Travel.

It helps you fulfill a dream

Perhaps you have been dreaming of seeing an elephant? Then why spend money heading to a zoo or a safari!!.There are opportunities for you to volunteer with a charity that supports the welfare of these beautiful animals. With so many animals now on the endangered list, there is no better time to get involved.

 Escape the tourists

We have all been on those holidays where we are abused from the airport to a hotel full of people with the same nationality.

If you want to meet local people and avoid the crowds then volunteering allows you to do that. Stay and work with local people making a genuine difference to their countries and avoid becoming a ‘typical’ tourist’.

Challenge yourself

Push your limits – try something new. Volunteering is not easy and it requires hard-work and dedication. At the end of each day you will be able to sleep happy knowing that you have done something worthwhile since you don’t just lounge at the pool – develop your skills.

Meet new friends

Volunteering is social because it involves the beauty of heading out on a volunteering project where you are guaranteed to meet people who are just as passionate as you.

Working closely with a group of people will mean that you will fly home having made some amazing life-long friends.

Gain a unique experience

No two volunteering experiences are the same. Each day you will get involved in different activities and meet new people. Each day’s activities will be governed by what is needed by the charity.

Become a local

After a few days living like a local, you will be surprised how quickly you are seen as a part of the community. Rather than being an outsider, looking in. Then why not become an insider and learn what really makes the community unique.

Below are the different safari trips that would compliment your charity soul for a once in a life time experience;

12 Days Uganda tour

8 Days Uganda safari

3 Days Uganda Gorilla Safari

Inquire for a customized Volunteer Safari in Uganda,Rwanda and Tanzania.

Gorilla Safari Lodges In Bwindi

Gorilla Safari Lodges in Bwindi | Best Lodges For Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla Safari Lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (BINP) include Four Gorillas Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Gorilla Leisure Lodge, Buhoma Lodge, Ichumbi Lodge and Bweza Gorilla Lodge. These Gorilla Safari Lodges come with the best amenities to make visitors’ stay comfortable and memorable and the must-find amenities/facilities include hot showers, bathtubs, restaurants, fully stocked bars, and more.

Gorilla Safari Lodges are also strategically located across the 4 main gorilla trekking sectors in Bwindi (Nkuringo, Rushaga, Ruhija and Buhoma) thus guaranteeing you not only incredible chance to track different gorilla families, but also enjoy exceptional view of the surrounding areas.

This blog shows you the travelers most favorite gorilla safari Lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda including Luxury, Mid Range and Budget Gorilla Safari Lodges.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is remarkably the most exceptional destination in Africa where tourists can find the endangered mountain gorillas in the wild. Over 459 of the 1063 mountain gorillas in the world all live in Bwindi and what makes it a complete destination is the fact that visitors have a variety of accommodation options to choose from.

There are comfortable gorilla safari lodges inside and in the outskirts of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for tourists to book for a night stay before or after gorilla trekking experience. What kind of accommodation facility are you looking for on Uganda gorilla safari in Bwindi? Is it budget, midrange or luxury? All categories of gorilla safari lodges exist in Bwindi NP.

Travelers Favorite Gorilla Safari Lodges in Bwindi

Four Gorillas Lodge (Luxury Option)

Four Gorillas lodge Uganda offers the best Luxury Accommodation of all worlds to those who travel to Bwindi Forest National Park. In this oasis of privacy, serenity and rejuvenation, there are no crowds, just Mountain Gorillas as well as the soothing sound of birds, rustling trees, soft breezes and breath-taking views – the Four Gorillas Lodge is the closest to the headquarters of the Bwindi National Park, only 10 minutes away from the Gorilla tracking and briefing center.

 Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge (luxury option)

Built on the Nteko ridge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge is one of the beautiful gorilla safari lodges anyone on Uganda gorilla tour in Bwindi should expect to book for their overnight stay. This comfortable lodge is built suitably in an area where guests are guaranteed of splendid views over the lush Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the surrounding Virunga Volcanoes.

Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge features 11 private cottages, 2 family-style villas, and 3 luxurious suites set above the Bwindi NP on a forested ridge with a unique elegance. This safari lodge comes with incredibly styled furnishings, luxurious rooms, cozy dining, reception, ceilings, volcanic stone fireplaces, African-styled furniture, garden of flowers and trees.

Buhoma Lodge (Luxury Option)

Boasting of its incredibly commanding views of the lush Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Buhoma Lodge is a luxury facility worth considering for a night stay. Located in the Northern sector of Bwindi – Buhoma region, Buhoma Lodge offers easier access to the park thus making it the ideal place to stay if you have plans to track mountain gorillas in Buhoma region.

Buhoma Lodge is an award winning facility; with about 10 chalets all providing the incredible views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The chalet feature private veranda and they en suite bathroom, good beds, hot shower, flushing toilet and more.

Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge (luxury Option)

This gorilla lodge is found in Nkuringo area, the Southern gorilla trekking region of Bwindi. This is an eco-friendly facility, built on a forested ridge near the Nkuringo gorilla trekking trailhead. This lodge features 8 luxurious cottages constructed from local volcanic stones. It is strategically lying in an area with breathtaking views of the park and the Virunga Volcanoes of Rwanda, Congo’s Nyiragongo Volcanoes plus the Congo borders.

Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge is a luxury lodge comprising of 7 guesthouses. Set at an altitude of 7000ft, overviewing the Virunga Volcanoes, Bwindi and has facilities including fireplace, en-suite bathrooms with accessible shower, separate lounge, outside veranda for relaxation, restaurant, parking, and more.

Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge(Luxury Option)

Lying in the Northern region, Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge is an intimate luxury lodge offering guests truly distinct jungle safari experience. Overviewing the spectacularly primeval Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Volcanoes Bwindi Safari Lodge prides itself of its stylish setting perfect for relaxation before or after having your thrilling gorilla trekking adventure. There are 8 stone and timber glass-fronted bandas, overviewing the forest; en-suite rooms, showers (cold and hot), central lounge, gardens, comfortable beds, fully stocked bar, dining area and more. The amazing bit about spending a night at this facility is that guests have a chance to see gorillas that often come roaming around.

Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Lodge(Luxury Option)

The Retreat Gorilla Forest Lodge is a remote and atmospheric facility set deep inside Bwindi Impenetrable Forest NP. This luxury facility is run by Abercrombie and Kent, featuring 8 comfortable tents, Queen-sized beds, bathtubs overviewing the lush forest canopy; shower, lounge, fully stocked bar, fireplace, and other amenities fitted to make guest stay comfortable.

Bweza Gorilla Lodge (Mid Range Option)

Bweza Gorilla Lodge is on the boundary line of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, close to the starting point of trekking to the gorillas. The area is in the Kisoro region in south-west Uganda. Bweza Gorilla Lodge is in a remote area and the journey to paradise is long, but eye-opening and scenic. The quickest route is by air to the Kisoro airstrip.

Ichumbi Lodge(Mid Range Option)

Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge provides Luxury Cottages, with en-suite facilities and a private balcony to enjoy the spectacular view of Bwindi Forest and beautiful surrounding landscapes.

Rushaga Gorilla Lodge(Mid Range Option)

This is one of the best midrange lodges, set on 6 acre land in Rushaga region. This safari camp features 30 beds, six self-contained bandas, 2 family bandas, and it is built overviewing the stunning Rwenzori Mountains.

Gorilla Valley LODGE(Budget Option)

The Haven Lodge is built in a luxurious area above Buhoma village. This was officially opened to guests in December 2014, and has facilities plus services such as bar, cellphone, mosquito net, laundry services, parking area and more.

Other gorilla safari lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

1. Chameleon Hill Lodge
2. Jungle View Lodge
3. Gorilla Friends Lodge
4. Gift of Nature Lodge
5. Wagtail Eco-safari camp
6. Eco Marvels Gorilla Resort
7. Engagi Lodge
8. CTPH Gorilla Conservation Camp
9. Silverback Lodge

CONTACT US for price Quotation and information of an all Inclusive Gorilla Trekking safari in Uganda.

Planning a Gorilla Tour In Uganda

How To Plan  A Gorilla Tour In Uganda For First Timers (5 Steps)

Planning a Gorilla Tour in Uganda involves deciding on where you want see Gorillas from in Uganda between Bwindi and Mgahinga Parks, how long you want to stay on your Gorilla Tour in Uganda, choosing a reliable Gorilla Trekking Company or Tour Operator, knowing what to pack for a Gorilla Trekking Tour in Uganda and Finding out which travel requirements you need to travel to Uganda.

Some of the answers to your questions will be obvious and others you just have to search the internet or ask a friend who’s been to that destination before. Our guide to planning for a Gorilla Trekking Uganda Experience for first timers is designed to help you and make it easy for your to plan your Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari Tour.

5 Steps to Planning a Gorilla Trekking Tour to Uganda: 

• Choose where to watch or trek Gorillas in Uganda
• Decide how long to stay on your Gorilla tour in Uganda
• Choose a reliable Gorilla Trekking Company or Tour Operator to book your tour with
• Know what to pack for a gorilla Trekking tour in Uganda
• Find out which travel requirements you need to travel to Uganda

1-Choose where to Watch or Trek Gorillas in Uganda

There are two gorilla trekking destinations in Uganda that is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi  Impenetrable National Park is arguably the more popular choice because it’s home to a large population of Mountain gorillas, has a wide range of accommodation, is easily accessible by air and can be easily be combined with a Savannah Safari for wildlife viewing lovers. On the other hand Mgahinga National Park is a popular option for cross-over itineraries with Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and it’s also the only park in Uganda where you can trek Golden Monkeys making it the best place for an option of combining gorilla trekking with Golden Monkey Tracking. Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga can also easily combined with Gorilla Trekking in Rushaga (Bwindi) or Nkuringo (Bwindi) for Trekkers interested in double Gorilla Trekking.

Gorilla Trekking lovers should however note that the Price of a Gorilla Permit at 800$ and the chances of Seeing the Gorillas is the same for Mgahinga and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks. Contact us for guidance on which park to visit

2-Decide how long to Stay on Your Gorilla Tour in Uganda

It is very important to decide on how many days you want to stay on a Gorilla Safari Tour in Uganda and this depends on a number factors including your budget, your schedules and the kind of experience and additional activities you want. For first time Gorilla Trekking Lovers, we think 3-5 Days will be perfect for a memorable gorilla trekking safari. However for Gorilla Trekkers interested in adding more activities such as wildlife viewing in Savannah Park or Chimpanzees Trekking, 5-21 Days are enough to Cover the best of a Uganda Safari. Gorilla Trekking Lovers should note a Gorilla Tour can be exhausting hence they need to have to themselves enough time to relax on arrival or after the long hiking encounters and long driving hours.

3-Choose a reliable Gorilla Trekking Company or Tour Operator to book your Tour With

To ensure a smooth planning, you need to choose and contact a reliable Gorilla Trekking Tour Operator with your dates of travel, your desired experience, number of travelers and your desired type of accommodation between Budget, Mid-range or luxury and they will help you to book your Gorilla Trekking Permit, Transportation means, accommodation and provide you with any additional local information and knowledge to ensure safety, responsible travel and easy communication in addition to saving you time and money by securing discounts in lodges and other activities. Engabi Tours and Travel Ltd is a reliable Gorilla Trekking Tour Operator Uganda with TripadvisorReviews from our past client. We also organize trips to Serengeti and Maasai Mara. 

4-Know what to Pack for a gorilla Trekking Tour in Uganda 

Gorilla trekking clothes and what to wear cuts across for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park and the advice we have provided below is for gorilla trekking though one might need more if they have wildlife safaris as an additional. Read hear about Gorilla trekking safari packing list. Please note that it is good to pack ahead of time since it gives you enough time to shop for whatever item you may need for your tour without panicking.

5-Find out which Travel Requirements you need to travel to Uganda

Always find out if you need a Visa to enter Uganda as some countries are exempted. Currently Visas to Uganda can be applied for online only and we advise that you always use the country’s official Immigration website instead of commercial websites that charge extra fees.  In addition to Visas, always ensure that you know which vaccine certificates are required and we advise that you get administered with yellow fever vaccine and other travel vaccines as per the rules of your destination and based on the recommendation of  your doctor you should take anti-Malarial tablets

Finally since you are ready to go on your Gorilla Trekking tour in Uganda, don’t forget to travel responsibly because going on a Gorilla Tour is as much about the local people as it is with the wilderness. Therefore take sometime getting to know the local people and their culture. Try learning the local language and keep a diary so that all the wonderful things seen and experienced are kept and remembered. You can also inquire from your tour operator if there are community projects you can support or volunteer in while on your safari holiday.

CONTACT US for a Gorilla Safari Tour Price Quotation or information and inspiration

Popular Uganda Gorilla adventure holidays: 

1 day Uganda Gorilla trekking tour from Kigali

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3 Days Uganda Gorilla trekking safari

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