Flying safaris in Uganda

Flying Safaris in Uganda

Flying safaris in Uganda are a popular way to explore the country’s amazing wildlife and landscapes without long, bumpy road trips. These safaris use small airplanes to fly travelers between top destinations, making it easy to see the best of Uganda in a short time. Here’s what to expect, top highlights, and tips for an unforgettable flying safari experience in Uganda.

Top Destinations for a Flying Safari

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
   • Gorilla Trekking: Bwindi is famous for mountain gorillas. Trekking here is a unique, thrilling experience!
   • Easy Access: Flights to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips near Bwindi save travel time from Entebbe.
2. Queen Elizabeth National Park
   • Wildlife Variety: Known for its tree-climbing lions, elephants, hippos, and more, Queen Elizabeth offers a mix of savannah and wetland experiences.
   • Breathtaking Views: Flying in lets you see the Rwenzori Mountains and plains from the air, adding to the excitement.
3. Murchison Falls National Park
   • The Nile and Waterfalls: Murchison Falls showcases the mighty Nile river as it tumbles 43 meters down through a narrow gorge.
   • Convenient Flights: Fly-in safaris land at Pakuba, Chobe, or Bugungu airstrips, cutting travel time significantly.
4. Kidepo Valley National Park
   • Remote and Wild: Located in the northeast, Kidepo is a rare wilderness with cheetahs and ostriches, rarely found elsewhere in Uganda.
   • Stunning Scenery: The flight to Kidepo offers views of rugged, remote northern landscapes.
5. Kibale National Park
   • Chimpanzee Tracking: Kibale is one of Africa’s best spots for tracking wild chimpanzees.
   • Lush Landscapes: Flying in gives a spectacular view of Kibale’s tropical forest.

How Flying Safaris Work in Uganda

1. Flight Options
   • Private Charters or Scheduled Flights: Private charters are flexible but more costly. Scheduled flights are cheaper and connect most major parks.
   • Operators: Airlines like Aerolink, Fly Uganda, and Eagle Air connect Entebbe to different parks.
2. Packing Tips
   • Luggage Limit: Small aircraft have strict baggage limits, usually 15 kg (33 lbs) in soft bags.
   • Safari Essentials: Bring binoculars, cameras, insect repellent, light clothing, and a jacket for cool mornings.
3. Local Airstrips
   • Most national parks have nearby airstrips, often a 30-60 minute drive from lodges and park entrances.

Benefits of Flying Safaris

• Save Time: Flying between parks reduces long travel hours, giving you more time for exploring.
• Scenic Views: Flying offers incredible views of Uganda’s lakes, mountains, forests, and savannah.
• Access Remote Parks: Fly-in safaris make remote parks like Kidepo and Bwindi easy to reach.

Suggested Itineraries

1. 5-Day Gorilla & Wildlife Safari
   • Day 1: Fly from Entebbe to Bwindi for gorilla trekking.
   • Day 2: Trek with gorillas in Bwindi.
   • Day 3: Fly to Queen Elizabeth National Park, enjoy an evening game drive.
   • Day 4: Safari activities in Queen Elizabeth, like a Kazinga Channel boat ride.
   • Day 5: Fly back to Entebbe.
2. 8-Day Primates and Savannah Adventure
   • Days 1-2: Arrive in Kibale for chimp tracking.
   • Days 3-4: Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park.
   • Days 5-6: Fly to Bwindi for gorilla trekking.
   • Days 7-8: Finish at Murchison Falls, with Nile cruises and waterfall views.

Best Time for a Flying Safari

• Dry Season (June to September, December to February): These are the best months for wildlife viewing and trekking, with little rainfall and easy trails.
• Wet Season (March to May, October to November): Although rainy, these months are great for bird watching, and gorilla permits may be more available.

A flying safari in Uganda combines convenience with amazing scenery, letting you see the country’s highlights faster and more comfortably than by road. Enjoy breathtaking views, unique wildlife, and easy access to Uganda’s top parks on this unforgettable journey.