#Nile Valley Sunbird

[verdorosafari]

Verdoro Safaris Uganda offers safari tour packages that let you explore the wild.

Uganda, often referred to as the "Pearl of Africa," Uganda safari tour packages offer an unparalleled safari experience. Verdoro Safaris Uganda presents an array of meticulously crafted safari tour packages that allow travelers to explore this diverse and breathtaking landscape. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a bird watcher, or simply seeking adventure, our packages cater to every need and preference.

Classic Wildlife Safari

Our Classic Wildlife Safari is perfect for first-time visitors to Uganda. This package takes you through the iconic Murchison Falls National Park, where you can witness the majestic Nile River forcefully flowing through a narrow gorge. Enjoy game drives that showcase elephants, lions, giraffes, and buffaloes. A boat cruise along the Nile offers close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of bird species.

Gorilla Trekking Adventure

For those yearning for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, our Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a must. This package provides the rare opportunity to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Trek through dense forests, guided by expert trackers, until you encounter a gorilla family. The profound connection you'll feel with these magnificent creatures is indescribable.

Bird Watching Extravaganza

Uganda is a bird watcher's paradise with over 1,000 species recorded. Our Bird Watching Extravaganza package takes you to bird-rich destinations like Queen Elizabeth National Park, Mabamba Swamp, and the Albertine Rift Valley. From the elusive shoebill stork to vibrant sunbirds, this tour is designed to capture the hearts of avid birders.

Adventure Safari

For thrill-seekers, our Adventure Safari package combines traditional game viewing with adrenaline-pumping activities. Explore the rugged terrains of Kidepo Valley National Park, engage in white-water rafting on the Nile, and hike the Rwenzori Mountains. This package is tailored for those who crave excitement and adventure.

Cultural Immersion Tour

Uganda's rich cultural heritage is as captivating as its natural beauty. Our Cultural Immersion Tour allows you to interact with local communities, learn about traditional practices, and experience the vibrant Ugandan culture firsthand. Visit the Batwa pygmies, explore the historical sites of Kampala, and participate in local craft-making sessions.

Why Choose Verdoro Safaris Uganda?

At Verdoro Safaris Uganda, we pride ourselves on Uganda safari tour packages offering personalized and sustainable safari experiences. Our knowledgeable guides are passionate about wildlife conservation and ensure that your safari not only meets but exceeds your expectations. We prioritize your comfort and safety while providing authentic and immersive adventures.

Embark on a journey with Verdoro Safaris Uganda and create memories that will last a lifetime. Our diverse range of safari tour packages ensures that is something for everyone, making your African dream a reality. Book your safari today and discover the wild beauty of Uganda!

[africanrocksafaris]

Uganda Wildlife Birding Tours & Safaris

Uganda is a fantastic destination for birdwatching enthusiasts, as it boasts a diverse range of bird species, including both endemic and migratory birds. Several tour operators offer specialized birding tours and safaris in Uganda. Here are some options for Uganda wildlife birding tours and safaris:

Birding in Queen Elizabeth National Park: This tour takes you to Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its abundant birdlife. You can explore the diverse habitats within the park, such as savannah, wetlands, and forests, and spot numerous bird species, including the shoebill stork, African fish eagle, African skimmer, and various raptors.

Murchison Falls Birding Safari: Murchison Falls National Park is not only famous for its wildlife but also for its rich bird diversity. On this safari, you can enjoy birdwatching along the Nile River, near the magnificent Murchison Falls, and in the park's varied landscapes. Look out for the rare and elusive shoebill stork, as well as other species like the Abyssinian ground hornbill, Goliath heron, and African finfoot.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Birding Tour: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is renowned for its population of endangered mountain gorillas, but it is also a haven for birdwatchers. Explore the forest trails and encounter numerous bird species, including the African green broadbill, African emerald cuckoo, African pitta, and various colorful sunbirds.

Kibale Forest Birding Expedition: Kibale Forest National Park is not only famous for its chimpanzees but also for its incredible avian diversity. Join a birding expedition in Kibale Forest to spot forest-dwelling birds like the African pitta, green-breasted pitta, yellow-spotted nicator, and the beautiful Great blue turaco.

Semuliki National Park Birding Safari: Semuliki National Park is a hidden gem for birdwatching enthusiasts. Its diverse habitats, including the Ituri rainforest, offer opportunities to see unique bird species such as the Congo serpent eagle, Nkulengu rail, and yellow-throated cuckoo.

Lake Mburo National Park Birding Excursion: Lake Mburo National Park is home to a wide range of bird species, both waterbirds and savannah species. Take a birding excursion around the park's lakes, wetlands, and acacia woodlands to spot the African finfoot, African fish eagle, African wattled lapwing, and other interesting species.

Kidepo Valley National Park Birding Tour: Kidepo Valley National Park in northeastern Uganda is known for its remote and untouched wilderness. Embark on a birding tour in this scenic park to observe species such as the Abyssinian roller, pygmy falcon, Karamoja apalis, and many others.

Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Bird Watching: The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary near Kibale Forest National Park offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. This community-managed wetland is home to a variety of species, including the great blue turaco, yellow-billed barbet, and African pitta.

These are just a few examples of the birding tours and safaris available in Uganda. It's recommended to contact reputable tour operators that specialize in birding to customize a tour according to your preferences and specific bird species you wish to observe.

[boyahia]

‎ تمير وادي النيل او عصفور الشمس النيلي ‎(الاسم العلمي: Anthreptes metallicus) ‎(بالإنجليزية: Nile Valley Sunbird) ‎(فصيلة: Nectariniidae) ‎ يتواجد هذا الطائر على طول وادي النيل وفي جيبوتي ومصر وإريتريا وإثيوبيا ورواندا وعمان والمملكة العربية السعودية والصومال والسودان وليبيا واليمن. في الشتاء يبدو كلا الجنسين متشابهين ، صغيران ، طولهما 9 إلى 10 سم فقط ، رمادي باهت من الأعلى ، وأصفر باهت من الأسفل ، مع منقار طويل ونحيل ومنحني قليلاً. وفي فبراير ، يبدأ ذكر تمير وادي النيل تحول ريش التزاوج الذي يعرضه بأسلوب لامع حيث يظهر له ريشتان بطول 5 سم بلون ازرق طويلتين بالذيل ويتغير ريش الرأس والحلق ويميل للاخضر اللامع والبطن تتحول للون الاصفر الفاقع . يتغذى على رحيق الازهار وحبوب اللقاح بشكل اساسي وقد تتغذى عند التفريخ على الحشرات والفاكهة الصغيره . ‎يمكن وصف عش هذا النوع ، كما هو الحال مع أفراد عائلة طائر الشمس ، بأنه إجاص مقلوب بساق متدلي غالبًا ما يتم تعليقه على غصين أو فرع أو حتى أشياء من صنع الإنسان مثل سلك الهاتف. تجمع الأنثى مواد التعشيش وتبني العش ، بينما يكون الذكر في الجوار ، ينادي أو يغني. يتم بناء العش باستخدام مواد مثل الأوراق الميتة والطحالب وشبكات العناكب والشرانق. يقع مدخل العش فوق منتصف الهيكل مباشرةً ، مع وجود حافة صغيرة بارزة للذكر للجلوس والدخول. في الداخل ، تجويف العش مبطّن بشكل أنيق ومريح بمواد مثل قطن الشجر أو وبر الحيوانات او وبر البذور. من المعروف أنهم يعيدون استخدام نفس العش حتى سبع مرات. تضع الانثى من ١-٣ بيضات بلون ابيض مائل للرمادي مرقط ويتناوب الزوجان على الرعايه حتى خروج الفروخ من العش والطيران . ============= @boyahia ============= ‎ The Nile Valley sunbird (Hedydipna metallica) is a species of bird in the family ‏ In winter both sexes look similar, small, only 9 to 10 cm long, pale gray from above, pale yellow from below, with a long, slender and slightly curved beak. In February, Tamir Wadi Al-Nil begins to transform the mating feathers he displays in a shiny style, where two 5-cm long feathers are shown in a long blue color with the tail and the feathers of the head and throat change and tend to bright green and the abdomen turn bright yellow. It feeds mainly on flower nectar and pollen and may feed when hatching on insects and small fruits. The female lays 1-3 gray-white eggs spotted . (at قرية تونس الفيوم/ Tunis Village - El Fayoum) https://www.instagram.com/p/CoKV7STqVbX/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[sustainablebirding]

Uganda Bird watching Safaris- A Lifetime Experience for Bird Lovers

Uganda is famously known as a Territory of Birds and it hosts over 1000 bird species. It is one of the countries that have an amazing diversity of Habitats. Every year, many explorers and bird lovers are visiting this country with their family and friends. Moreover, it is the perfect destination for bird lovers and they can explore their Uganda Bird watching Safaris with the help of local tour operators. 

Uganda is situated in the Albertine region also lays on the Northern shores of Lake Victoria-the the source of the White Nile. This African country is blessed with parks, wildlife, lakes and rivers, Mountain ranges, parks, and stunning landscapes that make it stand out from the crowd. 

Uganda Birding trips

Uganda experiences a tropical climate with rainy seasons that favor bird existence. You can find a wide variety of birds in both urban and rural areas of Uganda. When it comes to the varieties of birds, it ranges from Shoebill, Rwenzori Turaco, Black bee-eater, Purvell's illadopsis, Red-fronted Antpecker, Green-breasted Pitta, African Green Broadbill, African Hobby, the Bat Hawk, cooper sunbirds, and the Brown-chested plover and many more that you can explore during your Uganda Birding trips. 

Most importantly, its equatorial location, Transitional to the East African savannah, and the western rainforests make this place well-known as a complete bird-watching destination. There are various national parks available that can be explored during Uganda Bird watching Safaris. All it depends on your tour packages. 

Uganda Bird watching Safaris

When we talk about the best place for Uganda Birding trips, it can include Semuliki National Park Birding Tour, Semuliki National Park Birding Tour, Semuliki National Park Birding Tour, Kibale National Park Birding Tour, Jinja Birding Tour, Kidepo Valley National Park Birding Tour, Lake Mburo National Park Birding Tour, Rwenzori Mountains National Park Birding Tour, Mount Elgon National Park Birding Tour, Murchison Falls National Park Birding Tour, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Birding Tour. 

All the afore-mentioned tours have their specialty and uniqueness that can be appreciated once you book your package according to your schedule, needs, and budget. You can hire a professional tour operator that can help you in finding the best tour package and make your Uganda Bird watching Safaris  tour a lifetime experience. These tour packages can be customized as per your requirements. 

Looking for a reputed and reliable tour operator for Uganda Birding trips? You can visit www.sustainablebirding.com.

[southrift-galaxy-safaris-blog]

Hidden Gems of The Rift Valley

Away from the plus coast line is one of the most attractive geographical features of the country, there is more than half a million square kilometers of absolute marvel waiting for you if you look deeper into the country. The Rift Valley has so much to offer that we wouldn't exhaust its marvels in a whole book. Here are some of the uncommon/unknown/unexplored sites that will leave you breathless... Iten View Point Iten is a small town located about 50km north of Eldoret town. Although it is well-known as the home of Kenya’s world-class athletes, it also owes its reputation for great viewpoints of the Rift Valley, a geographical feature in East Africa The view point is one of the highest altitudes closest to escarpment where visitors view Kerio Valley. As the tarmac road meanders downhill, you get a perfect view of spectacular natural landmarks including the valley, Lake Kamnarok, Kerio River which hosts deadly crocodiles, Tugen Hills and Cherangani Hills. The magically laid out fault steps, steep escarpments and valleys covered with acacia vegetation paint a magnificent picture. Iten viewpoint allows you to see more of the Great Rift Valley than any other place on the ground. In fact, you can only see more of the Rift Valley if you are on a plane. Kerio Valley and Kerio valley  National Reserve Kerio Valley, one of the landmark features of the Great Rift, descends 4,000 ft, and is near the towns of Eldoret and Iten, The magically laid fault steps, steep escarpment facing and valley extensively covered with acacia vegetation paints a magnificent land on the Kenya Rift Valley. The floor of the Kerio Valley is covered by dry thorn bushes while the slopes have semitropical vegetation. Kerio Valley National Reserve offers a spectacular view of the Kerio valley in Kenya. You can also view the Torok Falls as well as the Chebloch Gorge while at the Kerio Valley National Reserve in Rift Valley part of Kenya. For the lucky few who happen to visit the reserve, you can experience the elephant migration via the Rimgoi reserve in Kenya Wildlife population including elephants, leopards and buffaloes, yellow baboons, bush backs, waterbucks and warthogs can be seen in the park. Kerio River Kerio River occupies the lowest level in Kerio Valley and hosts deadly Crocodiles. How Kerio River formed is extraordinary and mythical, Tugen and Keiyo communities have grounds to believe that long time ago, the two had undying boundary conflict and so a god locally known as Ilat became angry with the ongoing wrangles and stricken hard on the ground to demarcate Keiyo land from Tugen land hence end the dispute. Rimoi Game Reserve Its home to thousands of species of Rift Valley’s flora and fauna.  Gazetted in 1983, the reserve boasts a variety of animals including elephants, buffalos and dikdiks. There are also impalas, monkeys, baboons.   Bird life is abundant and various, with weavers, sunbirds, pigeons, honey guides, hornbills and turacos particularly prevalent Saiwa Swamp National Park Saiwa Swamp National Park is a forested paradise filled with exotic flowers, trees and bird. Arguably the smallest National Park in the Country, Saiwa Swamp gives the visitors a great chance to see one of nature’s peculiar creatures, the Sitatunga antelope which is semi aquatic. You can also see the white bearded De Brazza’s monkey that can only be found in this region.  Within this tropical wetlands and mosaic of riverine forest, sedges and acacia woodlands, with fringing dense rushes and grass bedsBird life is abundant. Water birds include the lesser jacana, grey heron and the African black duck while the forest shelters the Narina trogons, the collared and orange-tufted sunbird, the yellow bishop, Hatlaub’s marsh widow bird and the Noisy Ross’s turacos which are difficult to miss. Kipkoikoi Rock On the cliff side near Tambach, there towers a mythical Kipkoikoi Rock, a fairly cylindrical tip-pointed rock with a tabular platform at the foot. Our forefathers quips that Kipkoikoi  Rock was a Holy Shrine of Keiyo people. This is where they used to offer sacrifices to Supreme Being locally known as Asis. They would pour some milk or lay some green grass on the tabular rock beside Kipkoikoi and have their sins forgiven and fortune go their way. It is also bluntly believed that none would dare climb up to top of such rock, or else it befalls on him or her. Kolol Viewpoint About 15 miles away from Iten town downhill, you’ll never hesitate to stop at Kolol Viewpoint. The tarmac road curves at a fairly level platform that provides an open view of fascinating Torok waterfall on escarpment on the South West direction and diminishing Lake Kamnarok. Just ahead, lays a ‘snake-like’ tarmac road meandering down to Chebloch Gorge on Kerio River before leading to Kabarnet town. The Cherangani Hills They are the fourth highest mountain range in Kenya and include rolling hills as well as dramatic mountain peaks, and forms the highest, most breathtaking and spectacular escarpments of the Rift Valley. Unlike most of Kenya's mountains and ranges, the Cherangani Hills are not volcanic in origin. They are centred upon a forested escarpment and surrounded on three sides by sheer cliff faces. They are criss-crossed by walking paths, and ease of direction and undemanding slopes make this excellent country for relaxing hill walking. The paths cross open farmland, pass through sheltered valleys and wind their way up to forested peaks. All the main routes cross the 3000m contour, with decreased oxygen supplies Cherangani Hills Forest This is a collection of thirteen forest reserve blocks on the western ridge of The Great Rift Valey. The forested area is about 1,200 square kilometres. These forests form the upper catchments of the Kerio and Nzoia and Turkwel rivers. Attractions include, Beautiful Landscapes and scenery, Plenty of wildlife and bird watching. Kipteber Mountain Popping from approximately five kilometers off the range of Cherangany hills is a huge, steep, rocky and extraordinary mountain..A Mountain barring an extraordinary narrative of its origin spanning lots of generations ago. Mt. Kipteber strategically sits on the Elgeyo/Marakwet- Pokot counties borderline Chebloch Gorge This gorge was cut down into the hard, basalt rock by the power of the Kerio River itself. When in flood, the river increases tremendously in height and volume and carries a heavy load of fine, highly-abrasive silt which grinds down the river bed. Steel beams of the old colonial-age bridge are close by and in place to offer a perilous perch from which to view the gorge. Below the bridge, usually about 20m below, much less in the rainy season, are the muddy brown, crocodile-infested waters of the Kerio River. Young boys with primitive fishing rods compete with the crocodiles for the mudfish and catfish that are seasonally abundant. The Chalbi Desert Chalbi desert is located in northern Kenya, east of Lake Turkana. Chalbi in the local Gabbra language means "bare and salty." It is among the hottest and most regions in Kenya, a salty pan surrounded by volcano and lava flows .  Amazingly, you might still come across oryx, ostrich or even endangered Grevy zebra galloping across the great, shimmering whiteness. After the rains, the bone dry land turns into a shallow lake. On its northern fringes, where the wind piles up sand dunes, a chain of oases nourishes vast palm grooves. Chyulu Hills Chyulu Hills is located in Eastern Kenya, a mountain range that forms a 100Km long volcanic field. This destination is one of the prettiest places in Kenya, seeing the enchanted land of black frozen lava speckled with flaring poker trees is really something special. Ancient and new volcanic cinder cones and craters dot the landscape with black lava flow spilling down their flanks. Chyulu Hills provide to nature lovers. Large mammals include buffalo, bushbucks, elands, elephants, leopards, giant forest hogs, bush pigs, reedbucks and giraffes along with various reptiles and insects. Horse riding, camping, mountain climbing and bird watching can be enjoyed in this hidden part of paradise. Kapsowar Kapsower is a beautiful small town located in Rift Valley Province, Kenya. It’s a picture-perfect town; filled with quaint charm, crisp breeze and amazing scenic beauty. It’s one of the best places to explore the most breathtaking landscapes and unique attractions such as charming flowing rivers, herds of cows and gorgeous hills. Torok waterfall Elgeyo Escarpment  Lake Turkana One of the largest lakes in Africa, and the planet’s biggest permanent lake in a desert, Turkana lies in the Rift Valley, mostly in northern Kenya but with the tip running into southern Ethiopia. It is a spectacular place with some extraordinary landscapes, jade coloured waters, plentiful crocodiles, and incredible populations of massive Nile perch. It’s surrounded by some of the harshest terrain on earth where, somehow, some of the toughest but most delightful people manage to live too. Loita Hills The Loita Hills are one of Kenya's last remaining true wilderness areas which form an important part of the Maasai Mara Ecosystem. There are pockets of remote forests, wide open plains surrounded by the stunning hillsides. The escarpment is dotted with abundant wildlife and has a rich variety of different bird species. You can take a walking safari into the hills.  Local people and their donkeys carry the luggage and the camp, leaving you free to explore the beauty of the hills and forests. Walking with people who live here is the best way to do it, and you’ll learn a huge amount about life in such a beautiful and remote place, one that’s truly off the map. Olorgasailie Olorgesailie pre-historic site is world renown as the "factory of stone tools" and the only place in the world with the largest number. The prominence and accumulation of human tools represents actual camping places of early men and evidence that human species had a tropical origin. The site is in a lake basin that existed about 100,000 to 200'000 years ago. Olorgesailie has excellently preserved biological and cultural evidence about the evolution of man. This was made possible by heavy falls of alkaline volcanic ash from the nearby Mt. Suswa and Mt. Longonot, which might have contributed much to the accumulated ash in the lake basin.   Mount Suswa A true hidden gem, Mount Suswa is an excellent destination to add to your wish list, especially if you like camping. Another inactive volcano in the Rift Valley, Mount Suswa boasts a unique double-caldera, with an outer crater surrounding a second, inner peak. Hire local Maasai guide to help you find the road up to the crater, its isolation is a big part of Mount Suswa’s appeal. Its zigzagging hike along the outer crater rim will give you exceptional views of the volcano. Drive around the caldera to find Suswa’s famous lava tube caves and hike down into the caverns, which are full of bats, stalactites, and some interesting cave drawings of dubious origins. Not for the faint of heart, and not for those without a 4WD, Mount Suswa is a badge you’ll wear with honor. Koobi Fora Historic Sites Koobi Fora in the local language, means a place of the commiphora a source of myrrh, which is a common plant in this hot and arid area. The rich sedimentary rocks have yielded more than 10,000 Vertebrate and Hominid fossils. Most interesting here is a Stone Age burial site. Loiyangalani Desert Museum This museum was built on a bluff with a backdrop of Lake Turkana, the "Jade Sea." The name Loiyangalani means "a place of many trees" in the native Samburu language. The museum is hosted in this area by the El Molos, an almost extinct community in Kenya. Kapedo hot springs Two boiling hot waterfalls that plunge over a small escarpment before merging with Suguta river! Kapedo itself is a picturesque village where traditional grass thatched huts prevail. The surrounding has also a lot of charm with Silali volcano to the east and Tiati hills to the west which both are a rewarding hiking terrain. After walking the hills you can treat your tired legs with a swim in the huge bathing tub of Mother Nature, the warm waters of Suguta river. Whether you prefer it boiling hot or lukewarm, you will find the right water temperature depending on how close you are to the merger of the hot streams with Suguta river! Top holiday deals in Kenya Best Deals on Major Seasonal Holidays – Valentine, Easter, Madaraka, Mashujaa, Jamhuri & Christmas. Variety of options – Safari adventures, Beach, Getaways & International. Only top-rated destinations & pocket-friendly prices. Weekend Getaway Deals in Kenya Self Drive Holiday Deals in Kenya Outdoor Activities in Kenya Madaraka Express SGR Holiday Deals in Kenya Seasonal holiday Deals in Kenya Top Self Drive Holiday Deals in Kenya If you think you have to travel far to enjoy a nice weekend, you may never get away. Besides, you can enjoy a beautiful weekend right here in Kenya. There are countless wallet-friendly Kenyan self drive getaways that won’t even break your budget. Don’t spend your weekend, doing absolutely nothing at home. Whether you are looking for romantic destinations, pristine beaches, and adventurous outdoor activities, there are plenty wallet-friendly getaways that will satisfy your weekend desires. Malindi & Watamu Self Drive Deals Mombasa South Coast Self Drive Deals Mombasa North Coast Self Drive Deals Masai Mara Self Drive Holiday Packages Lukenya & Machakos Self Drive Meru Holiday Self Drive Deals Mt. Kenya & Aberdare Self Drive Holiday Deals Nyeri Holiday Self Drive Deals Samburu Holiday Self Drive Deals Read the full article

[adyeri]

Birding in Uganda

Uganda is the best destination in Africa to do birding. Over 1050 bird species which are being inhabited in different habitats across the country like in semi-arid areas, rich savannah, lowlands, montane rainforests, vast wetlands, volcanoes, Afro-alpine zone, agricultural land, rivers, and lakes. All these habitats are accessible for birding because the government of Uganda realized the importance of tourism and improved on the transport system linking up to these various areas. When you visit Uganda for bird watching you will have more chances of seeing a variety of bird species due to more birds per square kilometer than any other country in Africa.

Top 10 birding destinations in Uganda

Mabamba wetland on Lake Victoria

This wetland is located at the edge of Lake Victoria, west of Entebbe peninsula 36 km in Mpigi district away from Kampala city which is the country’s main capital.

It is one of the best marshy areas along the northern shores of Lake Victoria for bird watching boasting of over 260 bird species with one day’s record of 157 bird species. The wide variety of bird species comprises of the rare shoebill which can be spotted at any time of the day, the migrant blue swallow, Pallid harrier, Papyrus gonolek, white-winged warbler, swamp flycatcher, malachite kingfisher, African jacana, Lesser jacana, winding cisticola, grosbeak weaver, African marsh harrier, and many others.

It should be remembered that Mabamba is one of Uganda’s 33 Important Bird Areas.

Bwindi impenetrable national park

This park is located in southwestern Uganda is well known for inhabiting the rare endangered mountain gorillas. It’s a beautiful place with mountains and valleys covered by the tropical rainforest which is green throughout the year. The vegetation covers both the mountains and the valleys.

This forest is one of the rich biologically forests in Africa with a variety of about 350 bird species, for example, the Albertine rift endemics of which 14 can’t be found anywhere in Africa. It was also voted as Africa’s best birding spot by the African bird club.

The forest has well-maintained birding trails that give you chances to see a variety of birds like African green broadbill, Fraser’s eagle, collared Apalis, handsome francolin, western bronze-napped pigeon, blue-headed and regal sunbirds among many others.

   Murchison Falls National Park

This park is located at the northern end of the western arm of the Albertine rift valley. It is the oldest and biggest national park in Uganda bisected by part of the longest river in the world the mighty Nile forming the northern and the southern bank. The course of river Nile plunges 45m over the remnant rift valley wall into a narrow gorge of 7m forming the most powerful waterfalls in the world. This park has a variety of habitats like the savannah, Borassus palms, acacia trees and riverine woodland, woodlands and forest patches, especially in the southern bank.

This park is one of the best birding spots in Africa because of its various habitats act as homes to 451 bird species found within this park and it takes the 9th position in Africa when it comes to birding. Birding in this park can be done both on a game drive and launch trips and expect to see savannah forest birds, Albertine rift endemics and water birds. Some of the birds to look out are elusive shoebill stork, goliath heron, swamp flycatcher, Abyssinian ground hornbill, giant kingfishers, malachite and many others.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

This park is located in the western parts of Uganda and is one of the most popular and scenic. It has a variety of ecosystems like open savannahs, rainforests, dense papyrus swamps, brooding crater lakes, and humid forests. This park is endowed with a variety of big game, 600 bird species and 10 primates offering a lot to the Queen Elizabeth national park itinerary.

Queen Elizabeth national park is a birder’s haven with a wide variety of bird species which are relatively easily seen. Some of the birds to look out are African mourning dove, swamp flycatcher, malachite, African skimmer, grey capped warbler, black-headed gonolek, sedge warbler, papyrus canary, flamingos at the salt lakes of Katwe among many others.

The park’s savannah and forests linkup with the big forests of Democratic Republic of Congo giving our clients to view both the east and the central African bird species namely African darter, long-tailed cormorant, little egret, hammer kop, European honey buzzard, knob-billed duck, northern pintail, Egyptian goose, scissor-tailed kite, black-crowned crane, common snipe, rose winged parakeet, standard winged nightjar, brown nightjar, African pitta, African yellow-warbler among others.

This park has the greatest bird species in East African national parks and it was recognized as the “International Birding Area” by Birding International.

Queen Elizabeth National Park features other attractions which are amazing to see like the crater lakes, panoramic views of the Kazinga channel with its river banks occupied with the hippos, buffalos, elephants, and many other wild animals. The Ishasha sector of the park has tree-climbing lions that hide in the fig trees because of the excessive heat on the rounding day time and pests.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in the extreme western corner of Uganda forming part of the Virunga conservation area covering an area of 434 kilometers squared which comprises Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Mgahinga has about 180 bird species with some of the Albertine rift endemics, .14 of the 24 bird species are of the Albertine rift valley mountain endemics and 39 of the 88 bird species are of Afro-tropical highlands biome that occurs in Uganda.

The park offers excellent viewing spots like along the gorge trail, bamboo trial, farm trails. Look out for birds like cape robin, Kivu ground thrush, cinnamon bracken warbler, white starred robin, western green tinker bird, strip- breasted tit, scarlet tufted and many others.

Semuliki National Park

Semuliki national park is located in southwestern Uganda within the Albertine rift valley. It’s one of the best birding destinations within Uganda boosting of 441 bird species in both the riverine forest and grassland avian ecosystems.

The park has a variety of birds like the 46 Guinea-Congo biome bird species which reach Uganda through the Congo basin vegetation stretching from Lake Albert to Congo area and the 5 Albertine rift endemic species. Birds to look out in Semuliki National Park include Congo serpent eagle, long-tailed hawk, Nkulega rail, black wattled hornbill, black-winged starling, white-tailed hornbill, capuchin babbler, crested flycatcher, orange weaver, red-billed malimbe and many others.

Rwenzori National Park

Rwenzori is Africa’s most beautiful park with the third highest mountain in Africa after mountain Kilimanjaro and Mountain Kenya. Its six peaks are capped with snow and visible miles away from within and outside the park, a variety of ecosystems like montane forests, bamboo forests, tree heath, bog, scrub and afro-alpine moorland which are habitats to various bird species.

This park has 177 bird species which can be seen during the hiking through the forest zones and birds to see are Ruwenzori turaco, blue-headed sunbird, golden-winged sunbird, slender-billed starling, bearded vulture, swifts and many others.

Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo is located in northeastern Uganda very isolated from other parks where the majority of Uganda’s national parks are located. This is a magnificent park and it hasn’t been utilized so much as compared to other parks because of the long-distance but the long-distance is worth the drive to visit because this park is dry and hot yet spectacular and virgin wilderness park waiting to be discovered!. It has dry montane forests and open savannah which inhabits almost 500 bird species waiting to be explored.

Some of the birds to look out are hornbill, ostrich, Abyssinian ground hornbill, kori bustard, silver bird, yellow-billed shrike, yellow-rumped seedeater, black coucal among others.

Kibale National Park

This park is located in western Uganda covering an area of 766 square kilometers. It is well known for protecting the 13 primates like chimpanzees, black and white colobus monkey, L’hoest monkey, red-tailed monkey, grey-cheeked mangabey, and Ugandan red colobus among many others.

Chimpanzees are the main attractions in this park but it’s also a good place for birding since it has about 350 bird species comprising of 6 being endemic to the region and 60 percent are Uganda’s forest birds.

Birds to sight out in Kibale are green breasted pitta, African pitta, crowned eagle, collared Apalis, black-capped Apalis, black bee-eater, little greenbul, brown chested athlete and many others.

Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is located along the highway which links to the western parts of the country. It has a variety of ecosystems like acacia woodlands, dry hillsides, rocky outcrops, bushy thickets, and open and wooded savannah, forests, lakes, swamps, and grassy valleys, seasonal and permanent swamps.

This park has 332 bird species in these various habitats and birds to look out during birding and game drives are shoebill, yellow warbler, African finfoot, saddle-billed stork, brown chested wattled plover, carrutter’s , cisticola, Tabora cisticola, great snipe, Abyssinian ground hornbill, white-winged warbler among many others.

Due to many birding destinations in Uganda, we have not fully given more information on some of the birding destinations but we shall leave you with a list of other birding destinations like forests and wetlands where birding can be done in Budongo forest, Mabira forest, Katonga wildlife reserve, Bigodi wetland sanctuary, Lutembe bay. For more information about birding safaris kindly contact Adyeri Creations Limited.

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A Journey of Complementary Experiences

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A Journey of Complementary Experiences

“Mana is highly recommended as an African wilderness destination, and if you go, try spend at least three nights at both Ruckomechi and Chikwenya to enjoy the natural rhythms and calm found here”.

By: Martin Benadie

Growing up in Zimbabwe, one of our favourite family escapes was to the Zambezi Valley and the unmatched Mana Pools National Park. So many fond memories. This is a remote, beautiful area with incredible views of the broad Zambezi River, floodplains, riverine woodland and the mesmerising mountains of the Rift Valley escarpment across into Zambia.

It was thus wonderful to return to this magical corner of southern Africa in June 2019. The Ruckomechi and Chikwenya concessions offer productive and complementary habitat types that ended up giving us a very special Mana Pools experience overall – dare I say even better than I could recall.

We started our Mana Pools safari in the western extremity of this park at Ruckomechi Camp, which we accessed by boat from Chirundu after visiting Zambia. The boat trip was an easy one hour affair, which was very enjoyable with much to see along the way.

Ruckomechi is found amongst a swathe of habitats. Large trees fringe the Ruckomechi River with accompanying grassy floodplains, while croton thickets are south of Little Ruckomechi, and cathedral mopane woodland towards the interior. This habitat variety allowed for some amazing wildlife sightings over our rather short two-night stay here.

Elephant sightings were amazing and we even saw one of Mana’s legendary tuskers, who goes by the rather unfortunate name of Boswell. I am sure a more appropriate Shona name could have been given to such a commanding elephant bull. General game diversity and density on the Zambezi River floodplains were equally impressive – waterbuck, buffalo, impala, zebra, warthog and baboon were seen on every drive. Two lionesses that had just taken down an unlucky impala ram were also encountered. The Zambezi River itself has healthy populations of hippopotamus, whose grunts can be heard all day (and night), and immense Nile crocodile were found basking on the banks. Mana also boasts one the highest concentrations of endangered African wild dog in Africa. Another wonderful sighting was seeing an active African civet in the middle of the day! This large viverrid is typically nocturnal, hence all our excitement.

African civet in broad daylight

Birding in the Ruckomechi area was phenomenally productive for this time of year. We enjoyed many special sightings such as three-banded courser, Lilian’s lovebird, collared palm-thrush, Senegal coucal, red-necked falcon, white-crowned lapwing, Meves’s starling everywhere, rufous-bellied heron, purple-banded sunbird, Bennett’s woodpecker, peregrine falcon, swallow-tailed bee-eater, Retz’s helmetshrike, cut-throat finch, red-faced cisticola and a juvenile little sparrowhawk that caused much angst amongst the doves at the camp birdbath.

Ruckomechi Camp’s vantage, overlooking the Zambezi River and Zambia, could not be nicer, and it is a wonderful location to spend some time between activities. Our visit to this wonderful camp was over way to soon.

A very large Nile crocodile

Rather than flying to Chikwenya, situated on the eastern side of Mana, we opted to drive when the rather fortunate opportunity to do this came about. This meant we were able to traverse the full extent of Mana Pools National Park through very enjoyable habitat and scenery. This stretch of the Zambezi River is famous for its four main pools (after which the Park is named: ‘mana’ means ‘four’ in Shona) – Main, Chine, Long and Chisambuk – which are remnants of channels of the river which stopped flowing years ago. We enjoyed a relaxed picnic lunch at Long Pool, along with teeming waterbirds and basking hippo, before heading onto Chikwenya, where we stayed another two nights.

The key habitat in the Chikwenya area is albida forest. These trees, also known as ana trees, leaf and flower in winter and fruit in spring. Their nutritious pods attract a diversity of wildlife, from elephant and eland to baboons, throughout the dry season. The Chikwenya area also has an extensive floodplain that attracts a large number of grazers, tall mopane woodland, giant old baobabs and lush riparian thicket along the Sapi River.

Exploring these floodplains, with their magnificent albida and mahogany trees, we enjoyed the antics of feeding elephant, stretching on their hind legs and using the full extent of their prehensile trunks to get to the sought-after ana trees. One can also notice the distinct browse line in the tree community here, with the understorey kept in check by the high number of browsing animals. In the early morning, the albida forest is lit in hues of orange, the light rays penetrating the trees and making for some excellent photographic opportunities of the many and varied wildlife species. Chikwenya has good concentrations of elephant, eland, impala, zebra and buffalo while the theatrics of baboon troops never ceased to delight me here too. Other guests were also fortunate enough to see leopard and lion. Spotted hyaena were heard most nights too as we sat around the campfire before dinner.

African harrier hawk

Birding in the Chikwenya area is quite different to that of Ruckomechi and we added a number of new species to our overall trip list of 162. The prize in this regard had to go to the Livingstone’s flycatcher; we managed to find a pair of these stunning, extremely busy little birds along the Sapi River. Huge excitement all around. Other great bird sightings included Arnot’s chat, racket-tailed roller, three-banded courser (again!), red-throated twinspot right in Chikwenya Camp, nesting tawny eagle, a stunning flock of grey-headed parrot, fiery-necked nightjar, African wood owl, a surprise black sparrowhawk, African harrier hawk, Lilian’s lovebird were numerous, southern black tit, western banded snake-eagle, Böhm’s spinetail and an obliging shikra. The variety of raptors, from vultures to accipiters, in Mana was definitely another highlight for me.

Red-throated twinspot

Livingstone’s flycatcher

The section of the Zambezi River, at the confluence of the ephemeral Sapi River where Chikwenya is thoughtfully situated, offers quite a different experience to Ruckomechi. From camp, one overlooks a wide floodplain, the large Chikwenya Island and the Lower Zambezi National Park across the river in Zambia. This setting felt as remote as it gets. One has lunch in the shade of a dense mahogany tree gazing out at this all while eland, zebra and waterbuck often feed in front of you.

At both Ruckomechi and Chikwenya, the expertise of the guides shines through, and walking safaris are another exciting activity option for both camps. While we opted mostly for safari drives, we also had a sublime afternoon boat trip on the Zambezi River around Chikwenya Island. It was so wonderful and so peaceful, and many great childhood memories flooded back.

On a macro level, with soaring inflation, dwindling money supply and most Zimbabweans really just struggling through life on a daily basis under huge challenges, Zimbabwe’s wilderness areas like Mana need tourism more than ever. Thankfully, Mana Pools has also been declared a World Heritage Site, owing to its extraordinary wilderness landscapes, diverse wildlife populations and cultural importance. Mana is highly recommended as an African wilderness destination, and if you go, try spend at least three nights at both Ruckomechi and Chikwenya to enjoy the natural rhythms and calm found here. Seems I am also not alone in my accolades, as Mana ranked number two in Africa’s top 50 safari parks in a recent (2019) survey.

Post courtesy of Wilderness Safaris

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Nile Valley Sunbird - high resolution image from old book.

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Rwenzori Mountain Climbing

Mount RWENZORI CLIMB: ’’Mountains of the Moon“

Day 1: Pick up and transfer to Kasese the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains.We will stop at the equator crossing enroute for a photograph one feet in the South and one feet in Northern Hemisphere.We will then head to Mbarara for Lunc an the Lake View Hotel before finally driving to the foothills of the mountains of the Moon. We will Check in at the Margarita Hotel for dinner and overnight.The rest of the day shall be spent acclimatising to the climate.

Day 2: Morning, transfer to Nyakalengija on to Ibanda and start your 5-6 hour Climb into the Mountains. You will climb through the thick vegetation arriving at the Nyabitaba Hut(2650metres) in the late evening for dinner and overnight.

Day 3: Breakfast Early, then start a morning hike through the Kurt Sharfer Bridge to marvel at the Mobuku River Confluence. A Climb through the Open Patches and Lobelia and the Heath Moss Forest before proceeding up to the John Matte Hut for overnight.

Day 4: Depart early through the Giant Lobelias and the Heath trees. You ascend to the Bigo Bog and Scenic Landscape of Lobelias, Giant Groundsels. Dinner and overnight at Bujuku Hut (3977) Hut.

Day 5: Leave the Valley in the Beautiful Vegetation consisting of Giant Groundsels and Lobelia and head on an ascent to Mount Victoria Emanue l(Mount Speke 4890)

Day 6: Depart through the lovely views of the Savoia and Elena Glaciers. Scale further to through the Scott Elliot Pass(4372m) and proceed through the Snow to the Elena Hut for Overnight.

Day 7: Final Ascent to the Alps of Africa. Early morning ascend to through the Snowy Alexander Peak (5092m) and the Highest Peak (5109m).

BRAVO!

Thereafter, descend to the beautiful Lake Kitandara for overnight at the Kitandara hut.(3900)

Day 8: Descend early after breakfast and picnic lunches proceeding to Guy yeoman Hut for dinner and Overnight.

Day 9: Descend to Nyabitaba and proceed to Ibanda and check in at the Margarita Hotel for Overnight.

Day 10: Break fast at leisure and transfer back to Kampala / Entebbe.

 WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU FOR THE MOUNTAIN:

-Sleeping bag -Pair of crampons -Rope -Ice axe -Hiking/rubber boots -Hand gloves -Snow goggles -Walking stick/rod -Day pack warm gear including jackets, hat, thermal under wear, cotton stockings and any other from your hiking experience on snow.

ABOUT THE RWENZORI MOUNTAINS.

The 120km Rwenzori chain is regarded to be the legendary snow-capped Mountains of the Moon, described by Ptolemy in AD150. Reaching an elevation of 5,109m, it is also Africa’s third mountain after Kilimanjaro and Mt Kenya,this mountain range, exceeded in altitude only by the free-standing Mount Kenya and Kilimanjaro.

The distinctive glacial peaks are visible for miles around, but the slopes above 1,600m are the preserve of hikers, who rate the Rwenzoris to be the most challenging of all African mountains.

A variety of large mammals inhabits the lower slopes, but the Rwenzoris are notable more for their majestic scenery and varied vegetation. The trails lead through rainforest rattling with monkeys and birds, then tall bamboo forest, before emerging on the high-altitude moorland zone, a landscape of bizarre giant lobelias, towered over by black rock and white snow, looking for all the world like the set of a science fiction film.

VEGETATION  The Rwenzori are well known for their unusual flora which includes many species endemic to the Albertine Rift in the higher altitude zones. Of the 278 woody plant taxa found in the afro-alpine zone, 81% are endemic to east Africa and 19% are found only in the afro-alpine belt (Herberg, 1961; Lush, 1993). Most stunning are the giant heathers, ground-sells, ericas and lobelias of the tree heath and alpine zones (Butynski, 1992). Vegetation depends largely on altitude, with five zones being distinguishable. Below 2,400m, the vegetation is broken montane forest consisting of species such as Symphonia globulifera, Prunus africana, Albizia spp. and Dombeya spp. Few large trees occur and the canopy is consequently broken except in valley-bottoms and ridge tops where the gradient is slight. The montane forest zone merges into a bamboo forest zone (Arundinaria alpina), which occurs in pure stands in many places up to an altitude of 3,000m. Up to 3,800m, the bamboo zone is replaced on poorer soils by a tree heath vegetation consisting of dense thickets of giant heathers, Philippia trimera and Protea kingaensis, frequently over 10m in height. On better soils the vegetation is characterised by a tangled undergrowth punctuated by a mixture of small trees including Rapanea rhododendroides, Hypericum lanceolatum, H. keniense and Hagenia abyssinica. Upwards to 4,400m, is a zone of Afro-alpine moorland (Howard, 1991). As a result of most botanical effort having been directed to the high altitude flora, only 75 tree species (18% of the country’s total) have so far been recorded in the montane forest zone; many more are expected from this zone. Two trees are found only in the Rwenzori (Hypericum bequaertii and Schefflera polysciadia), and seven others occur only here and in the other montane forest zones of south-west Uganda, namely Senecio erici-rosenii, S. adnivalis, Erica kingaensis, Philippia johnstonii, Vernonia adolfi-friderici, Ficalhoa laurifolia and the nationally threatened Ocetea usambarensis (V) (Howard, 1991).

FAUNA Knowledge of the fauna is skewed in favour of the higher altitude species. Overall, the mountains contain at least 89 species of forest bird (27% of the country’s total), 4 species of diurnal primate, and 15 species of butterfly (22% of the country’s total) (Howard, 1991). Although none of these species are unique to the Rwenzori, many are endemic to the Albertine Rift region (for instance 19 of the birds are Albertine Rift endemics), and a high level of sub-specific endemism occurs, including the Rwenzori colobus monkey, hyrax and leopard. A recent study of invertebrate life forms listed 60 species in the alpine zone, 25 of which were new to science (Salt, 1987). This is indicative of a much more extensive fauna waiting to be discovered. Although in low numbers, the following globally threatened speciesare found in the park: elephant Loxodonta africana (V), chimpanzee Pan troglodytes (V), l’hoests monkey Cercopithecus l’hoesti.

BIRDS  Over 199 species have been recorded on Mt Rwenzori. The bamboo zone on the mountain may reward us with the Handsome Francolin, Archer’s Robin-Chat, Cinnamon Bracken-Warbler, Mountain Yellow Warbler and Dusky Crimson-wing., Rwenzori Turaco and Shelley’s Crimsonwing, the rare Ruwenzori Nightjar and African Wood-Owl, Red-chested Owlet and Fraser’s Eagle-Owl are also possibilities. Others may include:localised Grauer’s Broadbill, the Great Blue and Black-billed turacos, the spectacular Yellow-billed Barbet, Black-tailed Oriole and mixed flocks of Slender-billed, Waller’s, Narrow-tailed and Stuhlmann’s starlings.,African Hill Babbler, Black-faced, Ruwenzori and Chestnut-throated apalises, Red-faced Woodland-Warbler and Cameroon Scrub-Warbler, White-tailed Blue-Flycatcher, Ruwenzori Batis, Mountain Sooty Boubou, Lagden’s and Doherty’s bushshrikes, Sharpe’s Starling, Strange Weaver and Oriole Finch. Flowering trees attract the incredible Purple-breasted Sunbird as well as Blue-headed and Regal sunbirds, Cassin’s Hawk-Eagle, Bronze-naped Pigeon, Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, Cassin’s Honeyguide, Green-backed and Elliot’s woodpeckers, Petit’s Cuckoo-shrike, Toro Olive-Greenbul, White-chinned Prinia, Cassin’s and the enigmatic Chapin’s flycatchers, Mountain Wagtail…..

CONSERVATION VALUE The Rwenzori mountains, which are known internationally as ‘The Mountains of the Moon’, are a site of world-renowned aesthetic and scientific value, the most permanent sources of the River Nile, and one of the country’s (and indeed region’s)most vital water catchments on which greater than 500,000 people directly depend. Due to their immense altitudinal range, the mountains support an outstanding range of species, many of which are endemic to the Albertine Rift region, especially in the higher altitude zones. Also present are at least three globally threatened mammals, plus a potentially large number of undocumented invertebrates and plants. Because the park constitutes a small but significant element of one of the most extensive conservation zones in Africa (the transnational system of protected areas in the Albertine Rift region) conservation of the Rwenzori offers a unique opportunity to maintain a sensitive and extensive natural habitat intact (Howard, 1991)

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Nile Valley Sunbird by ammadoux

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Nile Valley Sunbird by ammadoux

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Nile Valley Sunbird by ammadoux

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New Picture has been published on CoverGap

New Post has been published on http://www.covergap.com/nile-valley-sunbird-by-ammadoux/

Nile Valley Sunbird by ammadoux

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A Trip To Mount Elgon National Park

 MOUNT ELGON

Mount Elgon National Park is the largest volcanic caldera on the planet Earth and is located in western Uganda straddling the Kenyan border. Mount Elgon was the tallest mountain in East Africa, today this inactive mountain is the fourth tallest in East Africa with 4,321 meters above sea level it boasts the largest base of any extinct volcano in the world, covers a total area of 1279 square kilometers, 69 of which are in Kenya. Mount Elgon was formed many years ago it was formed as a process of vulcanicity. The mountain is divided into four vegetation zones and each vegetation zone has its own attractions, very beautiful. You reach the mountain forest you hear the birds singing in the morning they wake you up. At mount Elgon there about 273 trees and shrub species namely; whistling thorn acacia, wait a bit thorn, grewia, giant cactus, African pencil cedar, spiny tree fern, broad leaved croton, flat top acacia, river acacia, red thorn acacia, black thorn acacia, white-galled acacia, umbrella acacia, red thorn acacia, large leaved albizia, red-hot poker tree(lucky bean tree, flame tree, casuarinas, sycamore fig, teclea, giant heath, large leaved gardenia, gardenia, giant groundsel, giant lobelia, sausage tree, jacaranda, African wild date palm and many others so the eco system is very, very rich.

The major issues affecting Mount Elgon National Park stem from the population pressure, the population density around Mount Elgon is about 600 people per square kilometer and the population is highly dependent on land. So you find that the landholdings per person is very small, so the population look at Mount Elgon National Park as alternative land that can be availed for farming. And therefore the park  has a big problem of encroachment, communities because of land shortage have invaded the national park, cut down the trees and they have established plantations of bananas, cassava maize and many other food crops.

Mount Elgon is a rain forested park and has got very good trees.

Flora and Fauna

Mount Elgon vegetation zones are similar to those of other large East African mountains. The contour of the mountain supports a contagious belt of ever green forest extending over roughly 750 km2 with in Uganda. The forest belt is divided into two broad strata. A tall Afro montane forest below 2500m,  low canopy montane and bamboo between 2500m to 3000m the slopes below the 2000 contour.

The most common species visible to hikers are blue monkey and white and black colobus. A small number of elephants are residents in the forest, animals like Zebras, Buffalos, sitatunga and common duiker(antelopes) and lions. The bird checklist stands at more than 300 species like mustached green thinker bird, red throated, wryneck, hunter’s cisticola, alpine chat, marsh widow bird, weyn’s weaver.

  To Things to Do and See around Mount Elgon and Sipi falls.

     Rock Climbing:

Rock climbing takes place outside the park at Sipi falls. There are 14 climbs requiring various levels of rock scaling techniques, the toughest is a 35m climb while the easiest is 15m. This is guided and supervised activity that is the most enjoyable adventure.

    Birding:

Since a high proportion of the 300 species is highly rewarding for birders. The lovely bronze mannkin, African cuckoo, black and white casqued hornbill, montane oriole, mountain greenbul, golden winged  sunbird, greater honeyguide, taita fscal, barn swallow, red rumped swallow, hunters cisticola and black collared apalis.

Birding at Mount Elgon is remarkable to visitors with a variety of colorful birds and by their relative tameness 

     Sipi falls:

This pretty waterfall is visible for miles as it plunges over a cliff from the direction of bulago village. Tourists focus on the trading centre which lies at an altitude of 1,775monly 40km from Mbale along a good surfaced road.

    The Abayudaya Jews of Uganda:

The isolated community of the Ugandan Jews known as the Abayudaya. The most prominent of these religious dissident was Malaki Musajakawa whose Aficanist Christian sect called Malakities managed to attract up to 100,000 ugandans away from more convectional denominations during its short lived heydays.

      Bagisu Circumcision rights:

The bantu speaking people who live on the slopes of Mount Elgon. Circumcision of the  bagisu takes place in August and December , a man can not married without being circumcised. Travelers who visit Mbale, the Sipi and Kapchorwa during the circumcision are welcome to attend any local ceremonies that take place. Females also come looking at the newly bachelors.

    Wanale cliffs:

The waterfall streaked cliffs of wanale ridges dominate Mbale’s eastern skyline, making the end of the 2,348m Nkokonjeru arm a ridge of lava extruded through a parasitic vent on the western flank of Mount Elgon. A 20 km road  from Mbale climbs up on the ridge through a cleft in the cliffs, meandering through superb mountain scenery.

    Fishing:

A stretch of the sipi river above the top of the waterfall near Kapkwai about 20 minutes drive from the Sipi trading centre trout fishing is practiced. the Nile Perch and the cat fish are among the more alluring fish that inhabit sipi river.

     The Nyero Rock Painting:

The finest of several rock art sites scattered around eastern Uganda. The site comprises six discrete painted panels set within a few hundred meters of each prominent granite outcrop called Moru Ikara. The age of the rock is a matter for conjecture, as is the identity of the artist, the Iteso people who have inhabited the region for the last 300 years  reckon that the art has always been there.

Where To Stay

Upmarket

Sipi River Lodge

Set with I the grounds of a unique restored former residence, sipi river lodge consists of main house and seven detached accommodation for the guest. Set I lovely wooded grounds at the foot of the middle waterfall the terrific little lodge is comfortably the best in the Mount Elgon region. The main lodge occupies a transformed bungalow with a cosy lounge, bar and excellent library. Activities include sipi walks, mountain biking, coffee tours, archery ascents of Mount Elgon and fly fishing in the river.

The Sipi Falls region is a hiker’s paradise! Choose from among a series of popular waterfall walks or talk to our guides about custom options to craft the ultimate scenic

Moderate

Lacam Lodge

It’s built on the slopes of mountain Elgon in Eastern Uganda. Enjoy a place of sublime natural beauty and rustic charm. Staying amongst the friendly Sabine people, Perched on the cliff edge with unparalleled views of Sipi falls. So close to that the waterfall is mostly heard than seen. Though the steep cliff below the site will give visitors the willies, the sudden drop makes the view down sipi valley to the Kyoga Basin particularly dramatic   

Services

Accommodation

Restaurant and Bar

Adventure

Relaxation

A place for relaxation or adventure

Stay in one of our wooden bandas or in your tent.

Enjoy a four course candle-lit dinner.

Go hiking, abseiling and rock climbing

Accommodation is provided in;

Wooden Bandas

Made of local Timber

Grass thatch is extracted from the plains below.

2 double beds in each Banda

Spacious Verandahs

En suite shower and toilet

Lacam Lodge also has 3 non self-contained Bandas with shared facilities and are cheaper than the self-contained. The lodge allows self-camping where the guests are allowed to pitch their tents. Lacam Lodge also features a restaurant and bar.

Budget

Noah’s Ark Resort

Noah’s Ark Hotels located on the Mount Elgon Slopes present all category accommodation ranging from Luxury to Midrange and Budget accommodation the Uganda safari undertakers. The Hotel features three branches with the capacity to take more than 100 clients with the price range of $10 – $100 depending on the client’s preference.

Noah’s Ark Hotels offers mid range accommodation to travelers and is situated along the slopes of Mt. Elgon and this varies from luxury-midrange as well as budget depending on how much one has prepared to spend. The hotel has three different divisions and these have the capability to accommodate more than 100 clients from different destinations and fall into the price range of $10 – $100.

The Main Hotel includes;

Bedroom with Living Room

DSTV

Living room

Bath

Single Bed

Television

Bed

Bathroom

Twin Bedroom

Bathroom

2 beds

DSTV

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Nile Valley Sunbird - high resolution image from old book.

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Nile Valley Sunbird (Anthreptes metallicus) is a species of bird in the Nectariniidae family. It is found in Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.

In February, the male Nile Valley Sunbird assumes his nuptial plumage which he displays in flamboyant fashion. In winter both sexes look alike, tiny, only 9 to 10 cm long, pale grey above and washed-out yellow below, with a long, slender and slightly down-curved bill.

By February the male is transformed into a glossy green extrovert with a brilliant sulfur-yellow belly and long tail streamers that add about an extra five centimetres to his length.

Once transformed, he will be puffing up and parading his newfound finery and courting his duller mate. The display includes a hovering, accompanied by body rocking and wing-whirring.

Photo by: ammadoux

Fact Sources: Wikipedia.org