UGANDA – THE 8 DAYS ITINERARY OF BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN PEARL OF AFRICA

Last Updated on July 4, 2023 by asoulwindow

UGANDA – THE 8 DAYS ITINERARY OF BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN PEARL OF AFRICA

This blog is about 8 days detailed itinerary for the wonderful country Uganda in Africa. The travel blog includes details on game drives aka safari in Uganda. I saw a lot of wildlife within few days of my game drives in various National Parks of Uganda. The Gorilla Trek at the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park was the best thing about Uganda. The blog also lists best things to do, see in Uganda along-with best time to go to Uganda and the luxury properties where you can stay when in Uganda.

Mbarara People Uganda Africa (14)
The local kids were overjoyed to see us at the helipad near Mbrara. Uganda, Africa.

UGANDA – THIS TIME FOR AFRICA!!!

It was my first time in Africa. And what a debut it was! I am glad it happened with Uganda, the pearl of Africa. One of the most stable nations of Africa, Uganda won my heart with its immense diversity, easy availability of Indian vegetarian and vegan food, super friendly people and of course, the stunning wildlife. I can keep coming back to Uganda again and again. It feels like home!

Masai Tribe Dance Uganda Africa (19)
They rocked the stage with their livewire performances. Uganda, Africa.

I ALMOST DIDN’T MAKE IT TO UGANDA!

So, when I was invited on a media trip by Consulate of Uganda in Mumbai, I took it up after initially expressing concern over my recently burnt fingers.

“No, you can’t go to Africa with these fingers. Isn’t your life more important?”, said the doctor after looking at my fingers.

Masai Tribe Dance Uganda Africa (21)
Dances from Uganda, Africa.

I was shattered as Africa had been my dream destination since eternity. I could see my dream going away from me, especially the gorillas. I politely said no to Uganda, much against my wish but Vishal, Vice Counselor of Uganda convinced me to come. I took a chance, got my fill of medicines and joined the trip. It was a wise decision.

Girrafe Kidepo National Park Uganda Africa (1)
Giraffe. Kidepo National Park. Uganda, Africa.

I took chance and agreed to be part of the trip and got my yellow fever vaccination done in Lucknow. I am glad I made it to Uganda. It will always be special to me.

It has been 2 months since I burnt my fingers (because I am a perennial disaster in kitchen!) and I am still eating food after sticking a spoon between my middle finger and index finger. Try it, it feels weird!

Uganda Africa Bahubali (1)
Me with the Bahubali producers in Kampala. From left to right – Mr. Srinivas Saiprasad Devineni, Mrs. Latha Kovelamudi and Mr. Naga Sobhanadri Yarlagadda. Mr. Sobhanadri  told me that he had already read my blog long ago. That made my day.  The blog was on  my journey as a travel blogger. Pls click to read.

INDIANS LOVE UGANDA – I MEAN INDIANS LOVE STAYING IN UGANDA

Also, the Indian and Ugandan connection is very strong. There are many Indians living in Uganda. 25,000 someone told me. One of my childhood friends Preeti Singh who was a former Mrs. India is one of them. She lives near the Source of Nile in Jinja before living in Kampala. She told me, “I have lived in other African countries but I prefer living in Uganda. There is peace, less traffic and pollution here. I like the slow pace and friendly people here.” We tried to meet but failed due to unmatched personal schedules.

MI 17 Rusian helicopter Bahubali Uganda Africa (11)
Her Excellency Mrs. Grace Akello telling us about Uganda inside a Russian Mil – MI-17 chopper. Seen here are actor Mr. Bharat Radhakant Dabholkar and Pat, the journalist who write on albinism in Africa. Uganda, Africa.

I and the Indian Film Industry Delegation had arrived at the Entebbe airport in Uganda by afternoon. Indian Film Industry Delegation had come for a recce to scout for ideal locations so that they could feature Uganda in Indian films or advertisements. I and Sumit represented media and covered the event and beautiful locations of Uganda on our respective platforms. The members from Indian Film Industry were as below:

Uganda Africa Bahubali (4)
Me with ad man and actor Mr. Bharat Radhakant Dabholkar. I grew up watching him. Traveling with him for 8 days was fun. He’s an adorable gentleman, not to mention very down to Earth and well spoken.
  1. The multi faceted veteran actor, director, theatre personality, ad man Mr. Bharat Radhakant Dabholkar – I have grown up watching him, so traveling with him was like a blessing!
  2. The producers of the blockbuster Bahubali film Mr. Srinivas Saiprasad Devineni, Mr. Naga Sobhanadri Yarlagadda and Mrs. Latha Kovelamudi.
  3. The TAFI or Travel Agents Federation of India team – Mrs. Aditi Ramakant Bhende (Secretary general of TAFI), Mr. Bharat Kirankumar Shah (Chairman of the convention committee for TAFI and a managing committee member) and Mr. Jayesh Manharlal Tharani (The very cheerful and the keeper of good Indian food)
  4. Ramakrishnan Natarajan – He’s line producer in Bollywood and has scouted locations for big films such as Shivay.
  5. Jeetu Verma – We remember him as the notorious but superfun Jojo of Bollywood film Soldier (Preity Zinta and Bobby Deol). He has acted in many films including Bodyguard and a Hollywood film. He is also a horse trainer. His last work was in the magnum opus Manikarnika where he trained Bollywood superstar Ms. Kangna Ranaut for horse-riding.
  6. Vishal Saria – Vice Consul Of Uganda in Mumbai, India.
  7. Sumit Chaturvedi – Host of Wings at WION- ZEE Global, the first TV aviation show.
Uganda Africa Bahubali (5)
Me with Vishal Saria before meeting the President of Uganda, Africa. He was instrumental on getting me to Uganda when I said no due to my medical condition.

We travelled with a very amazing team from Uganda. Not only did Her Excellency Mrs. Grace Akello greeted us very warmly at the airport lounge, she personally showed us around all the places in Uganda. We were very fond of her throughout the trip. Her mere presence made the atmosphere pleasant, thanks to her vivacious personality. She took such good care of us that we didn’t miss home. Find her on wikipedia here. She was accompanied by talents from Uganda, namely Robert, Gadafi, Pat and others.

Cessna aircraft Kidepo National Park Uganda Africa (36)
The cessna aircraft we travelled in to reach Kidepo National Park. Uganda, Africa.

ARRIVAL AT ENTEBBE AIRPORT NEAR KAMPALA: ITINERARY OF TOP PLACES TO SEE IN UGANDA.

Day 1- 27th February, 2019

Kampala, the capital of Uganda has no airport. But who’s complaining? The picturesque road from Entebbe to Kampala was worth the hour long drive during my return. As soon as we started to descend from the aircraft, the enormity of Kidepo National Park had me agape mouthed. The setting sun added to its allure. We had reached the Kidepo National Park by evening.

Our fancy ride ended and my Africa dream began!

Zebra Kidepo National Park Uganda Africa (38)
Zebra. Kidepo National Park. Uganda, Africa.
Wild Elephant Murchinson National Park Uganda Africa (27)
Wild Elephant. Murchinson National Park. Uganda, Africa.

As we moved from the Kidepo airport (the smallest airport I have seen!) to the safari lodge, we passed through the real National Park as unlike India most of the hotels, luxury lodges and tents are pitched right in the middle of the National Park. Jackals, different types of antelopes and deers vied for my attention. It was almost dark. I tried hard to be patient till next morning!

Wild Elephant Kidepo National Park Uganda Africa (9)
We saw a huge herd of African Elephants. They came very close to our safari jeep. Kidepo National Park. Uganda, Africa.

We had an Indian dinner at the Apoka Safari Lodge. Dinner was followed by a livewire cultural performance by the local people in the night! Some of us also stayed there while I along-with 2 more co travelers moved to a tent in the middle of the jungle.

I imagined that the lion was knocking at the tent. I slept tight that night!

Kidepo National Park Sunset Uganda Africa (37)
The glorious sunrise of Kidepo National Park. Uganda, Africa.

GAME DRIVE AT KIDEPO NATIONAL PARK – ITINERARY OF TOP PLACES TO SEE IN UGANDA.

Day 2 – 28th February, 2019

A bewitching sunrise welcomed us the next morning. My jeep included the Bahubali producers team, Sumit and Robert. The morning Game drive had us in splits. Zebras, elephants, giraffes, wild buffaloes, antelopes, huge hornbills, huge monitor lizards etc made appearance one after the another. And when we lost all hope, we saw an adult male lion, chilling in the bushes. Wow!

Uganda Africa (40)
Native African bird called Helmeted Guineafowl. Kidepo National Park. Uganda, Africa.

The game drive was followed by a sumptuous breakfast breakfast with lot of vegan options for me.

We left Kidepo National Park in the MIL MI 17 chopper with packed Lunch box

We arrived at the Moroto village and saw local dance and music. It was very exciting and thrilling to be in the middle of a real African village. The customs, costumes, music and the lifestyle was as authentic as you can get.

We stayed at the Mbale Resort Hotel overnight.

Please click below image on Instagram for the picture of Silverback Mountain Gorilla I clicked

GORILLA TREK AT BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK – ITINERARY OF TOP PLACES TO SEE IN UGANDA.

Day 3 – 1st March, 2019

The next morning we flew from Mbale to Mbarara

We arrived at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park around afternoon. We did the 4 hour long Gorilla Trek in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It was thrilling to say the least. You can see Gorilla in wild in only three nations. Uganda offers the most pocket friendly Gorilla treks. Uganda is also a very stable nation, therefore all the conservation efforts by Uganda have shown positive results. A trip to Uganda without Gorilla trek is incomplete. It was indeed the best part of my 8 days long itinerary for Uganda.

Wild Buffalo Kidepo National Park Uganda Africa (6)
Wild Buffalo. Kidepo National Park. Uganda, Africa.

We flew to Queen Elizabeth National Park and arrived late evening.

We had a relaxed evening and stayed at a sprawling resort overlooking the lake and the vast expanse of the Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Wild Elephant Kidepo National Park Uganda Africa (8)
Wild Elephant. Kidepo National Park. Uganda, Africa.

QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK, UGANDA – OF 100 HIPPOS AND 5 LIONS!

Day 4- 2nd March, 2019

We again went on a game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

However, we were rewarded with a large group of wild elephants and a lion family relaxing in the middle of nowhere. Queen Elizabeth National Park is also famed for the popular ‘Lions living on a tree’.

Lion Kidepo National Park Uganda Africa (4)
The lion we saw. Kidepo National Park. Uganda, Africa.

It was followed by breakfast and a cruise in the lake. We saw many schools of Hippopotamuses

We also visited the very interesting Igongo Cultural Centre in Mbarara and the equator. Being a science buff, the equator was very exciting for me.

People Equator Uganda Africa (18)
The entire team at Equator. Uganda, Africa.

We then flew to Kampala and had a relaxed evening. We then attended a cultural program hosted by Indian association of Uganda. The Indian Film Industry bigwigs spoke on the Uganda and India ties and how Uganda can be promoted in India via various mediums such as films, advertisements, videos and blogs. We also enjoyed a superb dance and song performance by African artists. It was a much needed break after roughing it out in the wilderness of Uganda for days. It surely was one of the highlights of my 8 days long itinerary for Uganda.

President Uganda Mr Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Africa (22)
His Excellency Mr. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President of Uganda! Africa!

MEETING THE PRESIDENT OF UGANDA – HIS EXCELLENCY YOWERI KAGUTA MUSEVENI

Day 5 – 3rd March, 2019

Meeting with the President of Uganda followed by sightseeing of Kampala and Entebbe. You can also see Kampala on a budget, by the way. Anyways, it was my first meeting with the head of any state. We had a long meaningful discussion with the Ugandan President His Excellency Mr. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. He has served as the President of Uganda since 1986.

MI 17 Rusian helicopter Bahubali Uganda Africa (12)
The entire team posing with the Russian pilot and the Mil Mi-17 helicopter in which we traveled throughout Uganda. Africa.
President Uganda Mr Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Bahubali Uganda Africa (23)
His Excellency Mr. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni addressing us at his residence. It was a surreal moment. I am at left in blue. Uganda. Africa.

He had replaced the previous presidents of Uganda such as the notorious Idi Amin and Milton Obote. It is a commonly known fact that Uganda was an unstable nation during the tumultuous times when Idi Amin was the president. Peace and normalcy was restored in Uganda after Mr. Museveni  took charge.  To be able to interact with such a luminary of historical importance was a privilege for all of us.

Hippopotamus Queen Elizabeth National Park Uganda Africa (16)
Hippopotamus mother and baby. Murchinson National Park. Uganda, Africa.

ELEPHANTS, HIPPOS, FALLS AT MURCHINSON NATIONAL PARK – ITINERARY OF TOP PLACES TO SEE IN UGANDA.

Day 6- 4th March, 2019

The next day, we headed to the Murchinson National Park. I was excited to see large groups of Hippopotamuses and Elephants from the Mil MI-17 helicopter. We ditched the game drive / safari and opted for the cruise till the breathtaking Murchinson Falls. En route we saw scores of hippopotamuses, hippopotamuses with kids, elephants, huge Crocodiles, migratory birds etc, baboons.

Nile Crocodile Murchinson National Park Uganda Africa (26)
Nile Crocodile. Murchinson National Park. Uganda, Africa.

It was followed by a wonderful Indian lunch. I was delighted to see so many vegan and vegetarian options at the buffet. The delicious passion fruit juice, Rajma – Chawal, Lentil soup, Penne all’Arrabbiata had me running for repeat serves. I overate!

Source of Nile in Jinja Mahatma Gandhi Uganda Africa (31)
At the Source of Nile in Ninja. With Vishal, Mr. Ramakrishnan Natarajan (line Producer in Bollywood) and producers of Bahubali – Mr. Naga Sobhanadri Yarlagadda, Mrs. Latha Kovelamudi and Mr. Srinivas Saiprasad Devineni. Uganda, Africa.

We started for Kampala by 4 p.m. Our dinner hosted by Embassy of India in Kampala. It was an honour to meet the High Commissioner of India in Uganda at his residence, followed by speeches and delicious Indian dinner.

Waterfall Murchinson National Park Uganda Africa (28)
Heading to the waterfall. Murchinson National Park, Uganda, Africa.

SOURCE OF NILE AT JINJA, UGANDA?  – ITINERARY OF TOP PLACES TO SEE IN UGANDA.

Day 7- 5th March, 2019

We visited the Jinja Regional Referral Hospital for Breast Cancer Detection bus inspection in the morning. It was an impressive bus with seating facilities in the front and space for health check-ups. Many women in Uganda have benefitted from this mobile mammography van which helps detect breast cancer. It was also appreciated by Bollywood star Mr. Sunil Shetty. The impressive bus has a mammography machine.

Uganda Africa (30)
The team with the Hope Express bus. Uganda, India.

The bus known as ‘Hope Express’ was gifted to Uganda by Mr. Madhusudan Agrawal – Honorary consul of Uganda in Mumbai for Western India. He is also the co-founder of the Samta Foundation and vice chairman and co founder of Ajanta Pharma Limited –Indian multinational speciality pharmaceutical company.

People Equator Uganda Africa (17)
People of Uganda. Africa! Shot near Equator.

Breast and Cervical cancer is very common amongst Ugandan women. To put things in perspective, 4 out of 100 Ugandan women suffer from breast cancer. Hence the Hope Express has really helped combat the situation and true to the slogan of Hope Express, they ‘Detect Early Save Life’.

Nile River Uganda Africa (35)
The surreal Nile River. As clicked from the Cessna aircraft. Uganda. Africa

We later had a sumptuous local and Indian lunch at the Jinja Sailing Club, owned by Mr. Mayur Madhwani, husband of yesteryears’ superstar Mrs. Mumtaz Madhwani, fondly called just Mumtaz by fans!

We then drove to the source of Nile and were back to Kampala by evening. I was surprised to see the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the entrance of the ‘Source of Nile’ Befuddled at the Gandhi connection, I was told that a part of his mortal remains (ashes) were immersed at the source of Nile in 1948. Neither did I have any idea that Nile, one of the most well known rivers in the world, has its source in Uganda. It was a day of surprises. Who would have thought! In the evening, we had meeting with the Tourism minister of Uganda.

Kidepo National Park Jeep Uganda Africa (3)
Game Drive Jeep. Kidepo National Park. Uganda, Africa.

DEPARTURE FROM UGANDA – ITINERARY OF TOP PLACES TO SEE IN UGANDA.

Day 8 – 6th March, 2019

The first half of the day was reserved for meetings by TAFI and Indian Film Industry at the hotel in Kampala followed by the meeting With Prime Minister of Uganda.

Drive from Kampala to Entebbe and departure from Entebbe followed next! My African dream ends, but not the memories!

Kampala Uganda Africa (24)
The team during the Kampala city tour. Uganda. Africa

Final Thoughts – My 8 days long itinerary for Uganda

I think even 8 days are less when planning an itinerary for Uganda. That said, you can still see the best of Uganda in an 8 days long itinerary. Whether it’s the abundant wildlife, or the vibrant culture and history, or food and the impressive landscapes, Uganda will make it difficult for you to find flaws in the country. It is a great destination when you travel with friends, family or even solo. Just pick the best from my 8 days long itinerary for Uganda.

Patas Monkey Kidepo National Park Uganda Africa (7)
The Patas Monkey. Apoka Safari Lodge. Kidepo National Park. Uganda, Africa.

The view from my Soul Window has amazing variety!

MI 17 Rusian helicopter Bahubali Uganda Africa (10)

Please Click Below Links For More Free Guides On UGANDA

Gorilla Trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda

Uganda Africa (34)
Bird’s eye view of the ethereal landscapes of Uganda. As clicked from the Cessna aircraft. Uganda. Africa

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MI 17 Rusian helicopter Bahubali Uganda Africa
Me against the Russian Mil – MI-17 chopper. We traveled across Uganda for 8 days in this beast! Africa! Pic by: Sumit Chaturvedi.

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Masai Tribe Dance Uganda Africa (20)
Dances of Uganda. Africa. It was mind blowing.

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Uganda Africa (33)
Landscapes of Uganda. As clicked from the Cessna aircraft. Uganda. Africa

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Landscape Kidepo National Park Uganda Africa (2)
A huge herd of Wild Buffalo (There were more!). Kidepo National Park. Uganda, Africa.

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MORE PICTURES FROM MY MEMORABLE UGANDA TRIP

Uganda Africa Bahubali (6)
Me with Mrs. Aditi Ramakant Bhende (Secretary general of TAFI) in Kampala, Uganda, Africa
Uganda Africa Bahubali (7)
Me with Mr. Bharat Kirankumar Shah (Chairman of the convention committee for TAFI and a managing committee member) –  Kampala, Uganda, Africa
Uganda Africa Bahubali (2)
Me With Mr. Jeetu Verma. Actor from the movie Soldier. Remember JOJO? Kampala, Uganda, Africa
Uganda Africa Bahubali (8)
Me with Sumit Chaturvedi – Host of Wings at WION- ZEE Global, the first TV aviation show. Kampala, Uganda, Africa
Hippopotamus Murchinson National Park Uganda Africa (25)
Hippopotamus school and baby. Murchinson National Park. Uganda, Africa.
Hippopotamus Queen Elizabeth National Park Uganda Africa (15)
Hippopotamus. Murchinson National Park. Uganda, Africa.
Kidepo National Park Uganda Africa (39)
Zebras. Kidepo National Park. Uganda, Africa.
Uganda Africa (32)
Bird’s Eye View of Entebbe Airport. As clicked from the Cessna Aircraft. Uganda, Africa.
Waterfall Murchinson National Park Uganda Africa (29)
Waterfalls at Murchinson National Park. Uganda, Africa.
Jeep Bollywood Bahubali Kidepo National Park Uganda Africa (5)
The team after the game drive at Kidepo National Park. Uganda, Africa.

 

Uganda Africa Bahubali (3)
Me with Sumit Chaturvedi – Host of Wings at WION- ZEE Global, the first TV aviation show and Robert

 

 

 

 

 

4 thoughts on “UGANDA – THE 8 DAYS ITINERARY OF BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN PEARL OF AFRICA”

  1. Pingback: Top Experiences of Wildlife Photographer Blogger From India – Self Interview | A Soul Window - Top Travel Blog from India!

  2. Pingback: Why Are Albino Body Parts Valuable – Protection of Albinos in Africa | A Soul Window - Top Travel Blog from India!

    1. Thanks. I had many misconceptions about Uganda. For Example, I thought it must be very hot and dry, when in fact the weather was was very pleasant and it was very green. As green as Maharashtra (India) in monsoon!

      I am glad I was able to convey all that to the other travelers!

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