A Shoebill that we saw in Uganda. This huge, unique bird is one of the most sought after species in Africa. Photo by Ivan Phillipsen

Uganda Tour 2019 [Trip Report]

by Sue Greer

Uganda is possibly the best country in Africa for birdwatching and seeing wild primates. Sue Greer, the author of this report, was a participant on our tour there in February-March 2019.

It was a typical morning until, out of the blue, Steve from Wild Latitudes called to say he had two cancellations for their upcoming tour to Uganda and wondered if we were still interested in going. Given we had already traveled overseas with Steve and knew him to be reliable, well-prepared, and knowledgeable (as well as fun), we jumped at the chance. However, there was a slight catch: the tour started in just two weeks. Would it even be possible?

Miraculously, flights, visas, vaccinations, and acquiring the necessary paraphernalia all fell into place. We arrived in Entebbe on time, full of enthusiasm, and equipped with brand new cameras we didn’t know how to use!

Over the course of the next 16 days we travelled to many of the country’s famous national parks. We took rides through swamps in canoes, went on big-game drives, and cruised the Nile River. We saw over 320 species of birds, including the elusive and extremely rare Shoebill.

A wild male Chimpanzee in Kibale National Park, Uganda. Photo by Ivan Phillipsen

We saw elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, rhinos, hippos, several species of monkeys, warthogs, impala, kob, waterbuck, Nile crocodiles (best viewed from a safe distance), and lots more. We trekked up and down mountains to see mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitats. What a thrill to watch them up close. Oh and yes, we learned how to use our cameras and got some amazing shots.

Hippopotamus cow and calf on the Nile River in Uganda. Photo by Ivan Phillipsen

Does this kind of trip sound like fun to you? Check out our UPCOMING TOURS!

Our intrepid group of 13 bonded well over a shared love and respect of the natural world and a spirit of adventure. All were open to and appreciated experiencing a culture very different from their own. The Ugandan people were friendly and welcoming. The food was delicious. Our accommodations were clean and well-kept, and each was unique and interesting in its own way.

Are we ever glad Steve called. It truly was the trip of a lifetime!