RO
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
From the first online Hello to the last Goodbye at the airport , our journey was in safe hands.
It was a pleasure planning our trip to Uganda and Rwanda with Wild Uganda ,as we were asked about our preferences right from the beginning. Ernest listened to us, offered advice, and guided us in creating the perfect itinerary tailored to our wishes and flights. The online communication with Wild Uganda is very precise, with immediate support, great solutions and clear responses . In the middle of the nature ,the accommodations were really lovely, we enjoyed ourselves and rested in comfortable, beautifully decorated, and well-equipped lodges.
We were also offered a very convenient payment plan, allowing us to enjoy this adventure even more .
Our direct link to Wild Uganda throughout our stay was Linus, our wonderful guide and driver. He is a very polite, well-mannered, cheerful, charismatic, and energetic young man. To us, Linus was not just a guide but a true travel companion; his humor and good spirits made us feel as we were visiting our best friend . With great confidence and disciplined driving, Linus ensured also a comfortable journey for us across the more than 2,000 kilometers through fascinating Uganda and mysterious Rwanda. Thanks to his perseverance, we managed to tick off the "Big Five"—a fantastic experience for which we are very grateful. We will greatly miss our conversations about the culture, history, and customs of Uganda, the local food, and the wonderful Ugandan people . He really made all our wishes come true .
Thanks to Linus & Wild Uganda , we were able to discover Uganda and Rwanda in a delightful way; we had a fantastic time walking among giraffes and rhinos, visiting our primate relatives—chimpanzees, gorillas, baboons, and golden monkeys—and admiring herds of zebras and antelopes .We could watch many impressive birds, including the famous shoebill and the grey crowned crane . We enjoyed the tastiest pineapples on the planet, as well as the most aromatic and juicy mangoes ever . The local food, the smiling people, the African landscapes, and the sweet scent of Uganda made us fall in love with this country and find it so hard to leave.
Thank you Wild Uganda, for these unforgettable experiences and for the care you showed us during our time in Uganda & Rwanda . See you soon for new African adventures !
IL
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Funny, friendly, informative!
Absolutely amazing safari experience from start to finish. The guides were knowledgeable, friendly, and made sure we saw incredible wildlife up close in a respectful way. The landscapes were breathtaking, and every moment felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Everything was well organized, safe, and smooth. Highly recommended for anyone looking to experience nature at its best.
BE
50-65 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Wonderful
Three magical days of safari in the Nyerere Game Reserve. I enjoyed every day, accompanied by our guide Stefano, who is a gem and incredibly attentive. The scenery is breathtaking. The camp/lodge is simple but perfectly functional, and the staff are very attentive. The food is simple but delicious.
I highly recommend this excursion.
(automatic translation from French)
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
Amazing Experience
From start to finish, I have nothing but praise for our guide Ben from Big Apes Africa. He was on time waiting for us at Kigali airport and never left our side until he dropped us back off in Kigali 3 days later. He was very knowledgeable and kept us entertained with local history throughout the trip. The 4x4 vehicle was old but comfortable. The roads in Uganda are very bumpy so comfort is crucial.
Our first experience was a trip to the Rwanda Genocide Memorial. Such a humbling place and I would definitely recommend a visit here. We then had long road trip across the border into Uganda, where again Ben made sure everything went smoothly during the border crossing. The scenery during the drive was absolutely spectacular, such a beautiful country.
We arrived at our first lodge for the night, Rushaga Gorilla Lodge, which was basic but had everything we needed. Ben helped us get checked in and took care of the details such as dietary requirements and likes and dislikes for dinner and breakfast. The evening meal was pleasant with dancing from the local ladies community.
Early rise in the morning where we had breakfast before heading off to the orientation for the trekking. We were lucky enough to only have 5 people in our group. Pointer - If you get offered a stick to help with the trekking, take it. It was such a valuable help to steady yourself and to use as a level to help when climbing or descending. Also, there are local men who you can hire for the trek for $20 to help carry your bags, water and to also help you over unsteady terrain. Even if you are capable of carrying your own bags, if you have the resource, I would strongly recommend hiring someone as the money is crucial to them. Unfortunately, we were the only 1 in our group to hire someone.
During the trek, the guides make sure we all stayed together and took regular water breaks to make sure we stayed hydrated. I believe we were quite fortunate as we had only been walking for about 2 miles when we were told to put our masks on. Immediately I knew we had found them. I cannot express the absolutely feeling of joy when I saw the first gorilla. There were a total of 8 gorillas in the group with a large silverback, females and a couple of babies. They were super chilled and eating their way through the forest. The babies were playful, hanging upside in the trees. Although you are told to stay 10 feet away, the gorilla's did not get this message and came closer. At one point, the silverback decided he wanted to walk through the trees where we were and I could feel him brush past me. You would think this would be scary, but I was totally lost in the moment and did not feel any fear. The hour goes far too fast so make sure you enjoy every moment and don't just see it through the lens of your camera.
Couple of pointers...Make sure you have long sleeves, long trousers and long socks to tuck your trousers into. Sturdy walking shoes with grip is also essential. We were fortunate that it didn't rain, but a lightweight waterproof jacket would also be good. A pair of gloves is also recommended as the trek can be very rough in places.
We were then taken back to the briefing house where we were presented with certificates. The day was one of the best experiences of my life!!
Ben then drove us to the Birds Nest hotel on Lake Bunyonyi where we were spending our second night. The views were absolutely sensational and I could have stayed here a lot longer than just one night. The rooms were comfortable and the food was delicious. We had the steak which was lovely and lean and very tender.
The following morning we made the trip back to Kigali, Rwanda. The border crossing back into Rwanda was a lot stricter than coming the other way into Uganda, but again Ben was there to help us navigate everything.
Our flight onto our next destination (Zanzibar) was the following morning so Ben dropped us off at the Five to Five hotel for our 3rd night. This is where we parted company. A hotel taxi was arranged for the following morning to take us to the airport. The Five to Five hotel was in a great location with lovely food and drink. Rooms also large and comfortable.
All meals were provided and the food was good. Only things to pay extra for are alcohol and soft drinks.
The whole trip went smoothly and far exceeded our expectations. One of the best experiences of my life! I would have no hesitation in recommending Big Apes Africa and if you have the option to choose your guide, I would definitely recommend Ben.
Thanks you Big Apes. I will remember this trip with a huge smile forever!
IN
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Fantastic planning with SIA and Safari experience
I was extremely anxious about dealing with a company that wasn't in my country, because it's such an expensive affair but three of us had an amazing time with them.
Nuhu was very patient throughout the planning process as I kept changing countries and parks and days and camps!
They were on time to pick us in Arusha and our guide for the 6 day trip - Patrick was really great.
We were lucky to have him because he had a great sense of humour and kept us in good spirits while telling us amazing facts about the country, the parks, the animals.
I'm very glad I ended up going with SIA after doing some rounds of communication with the other guys. Like I said interacting with Nuhu was just so lovely.
Thank you for making this a memorable trip for us!
50-65 years of age | Experience level: over 5 safaris
Fantastic trip with an amazing guide!
Bush Craft Safaris organised an excellent trip for us, seamless from the airport greeting to the final day. Our guide, Mark, was outstanding. He is passionate, deeply knowledgeable about Uganda, and engaging to talk to.
Mark truly wanted us to have the best time possible. He went out of his way to find the best wildlife sightings on game drives, and even on long travel days, he added in great short stops to break up the drive. His attention to detail was immaculate (even ensuring washrooms were up to standard!). Highly recommend Bush Craft Safaris and Mark for an unforgettable safari!
IL
50-65 years of age | Experience level: 2-5 safaris
We traveled for two weeks with Jade as our guide. There are no words to describe it. The trip was planned perfectly and she accompanied us the entire
We traveled for two weeks with Jade's escort..there are no words to describe it..the trip was planned perfectly and she accompanied us the entire trip and solved every problem for us quickly, professionally and efficiently.
Jade is a pleasant professional and highly recommended.
Simply well done and thank you very much!
(automatic translation from Hebrew)
35-50 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Exceeded expectations
Our tour guide John was great and very knowledgeable, we were lucky to see the big 5 and John would explain everything in great detail. Highly recommended and I am so happy with everything.
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Friendly, good communication and flexible.
Me and my husband booked the 5 day safari with Ndutu green explorers and had the best time. John was our driver and he was so friendly and knowledgeable about the surroundings and all the animals! He was also a great driver and made us feel safe on steep roads. The accommodations were great with fantastic customer service and the food was incredible. We are so happy with the memories we have made and are sad it’s over.
NL
20-35 years of age | Experience level: first safari
Amazing experience climbing Mount Kenya
Would really recommend doing your climb with Hyrax. We were not quite experienced in climbing, but the crew helped us a lot. Checking that everyone drinks and eats enough and is enjoying their time. It is an amazing experience and the Daniels are very nice guides