Tour at Budongo Forest

Tour at Budongo Forest: A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Budongo Forest

Are you a nature lover looking for a new adventure? Look no further than the Budongo Forest Reserve in Uganda. This pristine forest is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife, bird watching, or simply exploring the great outdoors. Here’s what you can expect from a tour of the Budongo Forest. Getting to Budongo Forest Reserve The Budongo Forest Reserve is located in the western part of Uganda, approximately 3.5 hours from Kampala. The most convenient way to get there is by hiring a reliable transportation service like Vas Transport UG, who can provide a comfortable and safe journey. Once you arrive, you can choose from a variety of activities to make the most of your visit. Bird Watching Budongo Forest Reserve is home to over 360 bird species, making it a prime destination for bird watching enthusiasts. The forest is especially known for its rare species, such as the White-thighed Hornbill, Puvell’s Illadopsis, and the Nahan’s Francolin. Bird watching tours can be arranged with knowledgeable guides who can point out the different species and help you spot them with ease. Chimpanzee Trekking One of the most popular activities in Budongo Forest Reserve is chimpanzee trekking. The reserve is home to over 600 chimpanzees, making it one of the largest populations in East Africa. Visitors can join guided tours to observe the chimpanzees in their natural habitat and learn more about their behavior and conservation efforts to protect their population. Nature Walks For those looking to explore the forest on foot, nature walks are a great option. There are several trails in the forest that vary in length and difficulty, so visitors can choose one that suits their preferences. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including primates, birds, and butterflies. Tree Top Canopy Walk For an unforgettable adventure, the Budongo Forest Reserve offers a tree top canopy walk. This is a thrilling way to see the forest from a different perspective while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The canopy walk is suspended 40 meters above the ground and stretches over 200 meters. Accommodations To fully experience the beauty of the Budongo Forest Reserve, you can opt to stay overnight in one of the nearby accommodations. There are several lodges and campsites that offer comfortable and affordable options for visitors. Additionally, some of these accommodations offer additional activities such as night drives, forest walks, and cultural tours. A visit to the Budongo Forest Reserve is a must for nature lovers looking for an unforgettable adventure. From bird watching to chimpanzee trekking and canopy walks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Book your tour with Vas Transport UG and experience the beauty of this natural paradise.

Mabira Forest Eco-tour in Uganda

Mabira Forest Eco-tour

Uganda is a land of natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes, and Mabira Forest is a prime example of this. Located in the central region of the country, just 56km east of Kampala, Mabira Forest is Uganda’s largest forest reserve, covering over 300 square kilometers. The forest is home to over 300 species of birds, 312 species of trees, and a variety of mammals, including primates such as the grey-cheeked mangabey and red-tailed monkey. If you’re looking for a unique and eco-friendly adventure, a visit to Mabira Forest is a must-do. There are numerous activities to choose from, including bird watching, nature walks, cycling, and zip-lining. The forest is also an important source of livelihood for local communities, with a number of ecotourism initiatives set up to promote sustainable tourism and support the conservation of the forest. Bird Watching Mabira Forest is a bird lover’s paradise, with over 300 species of birds to be found here. Bird watching tours can be arranged with experienced local guides who are knowledgeable about the different species and their habitats. Some of the species you may spot include the Great Blue Turaco, African Pied Hornbill, and Grey Parrot. Nature Walks Mabira Forest is home to a network of trails that offer a variety of walking experiences. You can opt for a leisurely stroll on the forest floor or take on a more challenging hike up one of the hills in the forest. As you walk, you’ll be surrounded by the lush greenery of the forest, with opportunities to spot primates, butterflies, and a variety of plant species. Cycling Mabira Forest is also a great destination for cycling enthusiasts. The forest has a network of cycling trails that range in difficulty, from easy to challenging. Cycling through the forest is a great way to experience the beauty of the forest while also getting some exercise. Zip-lining For the more adventurous, Mabira Forest offers a unique zip-lining experience. The forest has two zip-line courses, each with six lines, that take you through the canopy of the forest. As you zip through the forest, you’ll have a bird’s eye view of the forest and its inhabitants. Ecotourism Initiatives Mabira Forest is an important source of livelihood for local communities, and a number of ecotourism initiatives have been set up to support the conservation of the forest and promote sustainable tourism. One such initiative is the Mabira Forest Ecotourism Network, which offers a range of activities, including guided nature walks, bird watching tours, and cultural experiences. Another initiative is the Rainforest Lodge, which is located in the heart of Mabira Forest. The lodge offers accommodation in eco-friendly cabins and promotes sustainable tourism practices, such as composting and recycling. A visit to Mabira Forest is a must-do for anyone looking for a unique and eco-friendly adventure in Uganda. With its diverse range of activities, from bird watching to zip-lining, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And by supporting ecotourism initiatives, you’ll be contributing to the conservation of this important natural resource and supporting the livelihoods of local communities.
Mpanga Ecotourism birding

Bird watching at Mpanga Forest Eco-tourism site

Eco-tourism site at Mpanga Forest

Mpanga Forest

Mpanga Forest Eco-tourism site is situated 37km away from Kampala city, enroute to Masaka town. The Forest reserve was previously only reserved for scientific research. However today it is also a perfect destination for bird watching and a day or weekend escape from the city. It has over 550 tree species with some trees over 100 years old and over 220 bird species.

Birding excursion

Our 1 day excursion to this site was so exciting especially when it was time to see the shy White spotted fluff tail. It is not easy to see unless you imitate its calls. On our trip we were lucky to have Arshely Brian an avid birdwatcher on our birding team who can imitate the calls naturally. He managed to call it up several times for us to see.

You should have to see the anxious faces and smiles of the team before and after it was spotted. If you missed it, Brian was always ready to imitate its call so that you have a glimpse of this shy bird. It is always amazing to see him imitate the bird calls. You have to stand still or take cover like a sniper on a mission. This is done to avoid disturbing its presence when the White spotted fluff tail comes out of its hideout.The bird does not stay long since it has missed ‘meeting’ its imitator (bird) but for birders in the midst, the mission is accomplished.

Arshely Brian our expert bird imitator with a friend.

Mpanga forest 6 2017 (2)

Our main mission of the day was bird watching so that we can polish our bird identification skills and also relax away from home. Our walk through the forest trail about 3km stretch to the swamp was worth it. It gave us a chance to enjoy the fresh air and also exercise your legs.

Forest Walk

During our forest walk to the swamp,we went off track,thus getting lost.We were lucky to meet young firewood harvesters who volunteered to lead us to the swamp. In this porous forest, firewood harvests are only allowed for fallen tree branches (i.e Old trees that fall naturally. Cutting of trees is illegal). This young team (Justine,Brian,Joel and Joram) with their dog in pursuit did well to show us some areas we had missed. We gave them a tip as a token of appreciation.

Mpanga forest 4 2017

Bird watching

Bird watching is usually a rewarding adventure if you are patient. The birds seen on our day trip include: White spotted Flufftail ,Blue throated Roller ,Grosbeak Weaver ,Great spotted cuckoo ,Little Greenbul, Lizzad Buzzard, Marico Sunbird ,Green Hylia ,Western Nectar, Chestnut Wattle-eye ,White throated Greenbul, White throated Bee-eater ,Rufous Flycatcher Thrush ,Spotted Morning Thrush
Red headed Malimbe ,Splendid glossy Starling ,Green Backed Camaroptera, Red cheeked Cordon Bleu, Black and white Shrike Flycatcher ,African pied Wagtail , Vieillot’s black weaver ,Copper Sunbird, Scarlet Chested Sunbird ,Green Sunbird ,Pintailed Whydah.

Other bird species sighted included; Yellow throated Longclaw ,Eastern Plantain-eater, Brown backed Scrub Robin ,Dark capped Bulbul, Green throated Sunbird ,Northern grey headed Sparrow ,Black and white casqued Hornbill, Crowned Hornbill, Great blue Turaco, Blue throated roller, African Harrier Hawk, Ayres’ Hawk eagle, African Harrier Hawk.
We also sighted a Lesser bush baby and Red tailed monkeys.

Therefore a visit to the eco-tourism site is so rewarding that you have a full plate of activities like Forest walks, bird watching, butterfly identification and primate watching. You will also have a place to relax after a day’s adventure in the forest. Accommodation is available too for those who who like to spend more days away from home. It has double and twin rooms, space for camping and self catering facilities. For a day’s excursion,I recommend that you carry your own snacks.

Mpanga forest 7 2016

 

Birding can be done twice in a day that is early morning when birds are still in their nests, leaving or hovering around their nests. In the evening when they return to their nests for a night’s rest.

Mpanga forest 2017

Visit Mpambire trading centre for shopping on your way back for crafts. Items available for sale include Baskets, Mats, Drums, Stools and a variety of household tools.

Trip Destinations

You can extend your holiday to other exciting birding and wildlife destinations at Lake Mburo,Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Queen Elizabeth National Parks.

Source of the River Nile Jinja

Source of the Nile at Jinja Uganda

Source of the Nile at Jinja, Uganda

The Source of the Nile is the the original place where River Nile starts its maiden journey to Mediterranean sea. It travels 4000miles. It takes 3 months to complete the journey to the Mediterranean sea.

Jinja town

Jinja town is best known as the location of the source of the river Nile and as a famous business hub for Asians in the 1970s. However the Asians have been returning in good numbers to resume their trading. Unlike in the 1970s where they dominated the trade, today even locals have since joined business mainly in the retail shops and supermarkets. Jinja is also attractive to other investments in the hospitality industry.

Jinja is about 84km away from Kampala City. You can travel by public means or private car. Travelling time is about 1hour 30minutes to 2hours.

During my two day trip I was able to visit the Source of the Nile, which is a popular place for both locals and foreign guests. The main attraction is the genuine point of the Source of the Nile where the River Nile starts its maiden journey to Mediterranean sea through Sudan and Egypt. The source of this mighty river is Lake Victoria a lake named after Queen Victoria by Explorer John Speke after an expedition to locate the source of the Nile.A monument has been erected to mark this event on the western side of the river where he stood and identified the source of River Nile in 1862.

It is such an exciting experience to travel by boat to the exact point of the source of the Nile. Not only can someone enjoy the photographic experience but also enjoy the ride on the River Nile and Lake Victoria. You will also see birds hovering above the river trying to spot fish for a day’s meal and fishermen drawing their nets in water to catch fish for an evening meal and trade.

The excitement among the visitors feels the air. Travelling on water is fun for the revellers. A boat cruise can be for 30minutes to 2 hours.

Another place visited is the Mahatma Gandhi Monument. This Monument is associated to the ashes that were poured into the Nile to fulfill his wish. Gandhi’s ashes were scattered in selected places across the world including at the source of the Nile River near Jinja, Uganda, and today a memorial plaque is in place to mark the event.

Gandhi Statute Source of the Nile
Gandhi Memorial Statute

Gandhi, a Nationalist and renowned advocate for civil liberties led India to independence and inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world. A Hindu nationalist, assassinated Gandhi on 30 January 1948 by firing three bullets into his chest.

Another historical place visited is the World War cemetery, where World War One and Two Ugandan casualties were buried. These veterans were part of the colonial regiment,King’s African Rifles.

For an enthusiastic reveler you will also want a variety of activities after a day’s adventure on water. At the source of the Nile, there is a recreation park similar to the Entebbe Zoo that has recently opened to provide an additional travel experience for its guests. It has snakes, a crocodile, donkeys and also a cultural village exhibiting a Basoga tribe (natives of the area) homestead (hut) and its handmade tools used for cooking and hunting.The items are labelled with the English name and its equivalent local name.

Restaurants at the river side can give you a place to relax as you enjoy the fish delicacy, fries and drinks as you view the river and lake activities.

Rumours restaurant at Source of the Nile
Rumours restaurant Jinja

Accommodation at the Source of the Nile

Jinja accommodation favours the backpacker, midrange and luxury travelers, like Jinja backpackers,2 friends Guest house, The Haven, Gately on the Nile,The Holland park among others.

Haven Lodge source of the Nile
Haven Lodge Jinja

Other activities availaible in addition to sightseeing is Kayaking,Water rafting, Horse riding and Quad biking along the Nile or through the Ugandan villages.

Women Integrated Empowerment Development Group (WIED)

A Visit to a women community group concluded my trip. These hardworking single mothers and care givers have made progress despite all odds. Its mission is to help women attain self reliance using sustainable livelihood approaches. They have specialized in recycling paper ,banana fibre, Kitenge materials and cow horns to produce handcrafts like ear rings, neckalaces, money purses, shopping bags, Table mats Aprons, Toliet bags, head scarfs, desk organisers, sugar and sauce bowls.

The group was started in 2003 with 17 women. It currently has over 200 members. Business was going on well from 2006.However in 2012 the market was saturated by competition with recycled paper products ,their main business line thus making them redundant from 2012 to 2015.

In late 2015, a lucky member of the group through a friend got the chance to go for training at Uganda Industrial Research Institute. Despite the tough training, the member benefited from the training and network. She was able to make sample products out of cow horns a new raw material to paper. The product was later shown to the members who were excited and later agreed to continue making products.

Fortunately a Good Samaritan arrived from the USA who had earlier interacted with them.Samples we given to the Good Samaritan who supported the group find donors to fund the new project. Like the say the rest is history, the group finally secured funding for the new machines that could cut & mould the cow horns in April 2016.

Beautiful Handicrafts have been made from the cow horns. The group is very happy about their new innovation, however more funding and market is needed for the products preferably overseas. Plans are underway to seek more funding for project expansion and acquisition of land to establish a new permanent home, with own workshop rooms, conference rooms, offices and also set up other income generating projects to boost their revenue and also act as a demonstration site for the group members.

For any donations, support or visit to the women group Contact: Dorothy Wakabi Email: dorothywakabi6@gmail.com Tel: +256773106728/+256706106728 or Judith Talitwala +256782488996/+256703878593.

 

Crater Lake Safaris in Uganda

Crater Lake Safaris in Uganda

Craters

Craters are large, bowl-shaped cavities in the ground, typically one caused by volcanic explosion. It is a result of volcanic up warping and down warping thus leaving a caldera that is later filled with underground water as explained by my guide Brydon.

In Uganda there are several craters mostly in Kabarole District, Mid -Western Uganda .

My holiday trip to these craters was such an exhilarating experience. There are over 25 crater lakes that can be visited. However the more exciting ones are the ones with lodging side by side on the crater rim. A stop over at the King’s palace was also another exciting cultural experience.The enthusiastic site guide welcomes you, ready to tell the cultural history of the kingdom.

Nyamiteza crater lake was my first destination. This crater off Fortportal- Kasese road is such an exciting place for a holiday. The crater rim is surrounded with beautiful hills that makes it look more impressive. It is more exciting when you step further down about 80 metres to have a closer look of the crater.

The lodge Bella Vista offers the right comfort for both the midrange and backpacker holiday maker. The rooms give you a perfect view of the crater making your relaxation exhilarating. On the other side the view of Mt.Rwenzori ranges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is such a great sight. The swimming pool at the lodge, gives you a chance to test your swimming skills as you relax.

The Italian lodge has fond memories of 1906.The crater area was the 1st climbing of Rwenzori mountain by an Italian prince –Luigi Amedeo in 1906 who reached its peak, and named it after Queen Magherita of Italy.The peak is known as Magherita peak till today.

 

The next destination was Kyaninga crater about 10km from Fort portal town with its popular Kyaninga Lodge (Luxury) which was fully booked for the Christmas holiday. Entry was closed to all visitors but I was able to visit another lodge on the Kyaninga crater rim, Kyaninga Royal cottages (mid- range).The Kyaninga crater rim is now a popular destination for lodge investments and we are yet to see more come up which is good for the visitors.

 

Lake Nkuruba

Lake Nkuruba a beautiful lake with abundance forest habitats was another exciting destination on my crater trip. The forest reserve around the crater rim is home to primates that include the Uganda endangered red colobus, black and white colobus, Vervet monkeys and the nocturnal potto. My guide asked me to look out for the young black and white colobus monkey (usually purely white) in the trees, , which is a rare sighting. This can be prize winner for the primate photographers.

I was able to visit the Crater lake and also enjoy the sightings of the primates in the trees and on the ground especially the fearless Vervet monkeys. Tourists at the site could hardly miss a photo shot of these primates.

The site has budget accommodation,crafts shop and also space for the camping visitor.

Lake Nyamirima

Crater Lake Nyamirima is another famous crater due to its view above the hill. The hill view has been named “Top of the world” because it gives you great views of other crater lakes like Nyinabulitwa and Nyabikere craters and three national Parks namely Kibale Forest N(a destination with the highest concentration of chimpanzees in East Africa), Rwenzori Mountain NP(a UNESCO world heritage site) and flat plains of Queen Elizabeth NP a recognized biosphere reserve.

Midrange accommodation for guests is available and the lush gardens are also favourite for camping.

Lake Lyantonde ,Nyinabuga and Kifuruka Craters.

These crater lakes are known to share the crater rim with lovely luxury accommodation for guests namely Papaya lake Lodge , Ndali Lodge and Kifuruka Eco Camp(budget). Nyinabuga crater is locally referred to as a twin lake because of its close proximity to Lake Kifuruka another crater seen on the opposite side, just a road between them. The close proximity of these crater lakes gives you a chance to explore their beauty easily.

A visit to the Papaya lodge at Lake Lyantonde is so welcoming. Your private stay at the beautifully designed self-contained cottages will also give you breathtaking views of the lake. The lush green walk ways also provide you with an opportunity to enjoy the fresh air. It’s pool side is also another relaxing point after a days adventure.

Ndali Lodge on Lake Nyinabuga crater rim was my next destination after Papaya. The founders of this luxury accommodation have fond memories of Uganda. The grandfather of the current owner owned tea estates in Tooro kingdom in 1920s .Grandpa Trevor Price a retired Major in the British Army chose Uganda as his retirement base. The memories have lived on from generation to generation giving birth to the lodge in the 1990s.

Nyinabuga crater is also known as the UGX 20,000 shilling note crater. It’s features can be traced on the currency note as shown by my guide Brydon.

 

Kifuruka Eco camp overlooking Kifuruka crater is ideal place for the budget traveler. If you are a shoestring budget traveler you can camp on the site. More budget accommodation is available on site for the non- camping guest.

Crater Lake Mwamba, Rukwanzi and Mahoma Falls.

Lake Mwamba is also other crater that can be seen by the roadside as you go to visit Mahoma falls. Lake Rukwanzi was visited too. Rukwanzi means necklace i.e shaped like a necklace.

My last destination was Mahoma falls. These falls are an ideal place for relaxation, a shower and swimming. To visit these falls you should be physically fit to go downhill and return uphill.

The Crater safari can be combined with a visit to Kibale Forest National Park for Chimp tracking, Bigodi swamp for bird watching, Tea plantation bicycle rides, Queen Elizabeth National Park for game drives and boat rides ,go for a Mini Hike on Rwenzori Mountain and Track Gorillas at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park (UNESCO World heritage Site) home to 50% of the endangered Mountain Gorilla or explore the famous Batwa tribe village trails and other village communities.

Birding at Sezibwa Falls in Uganda

Birding at Sezibwa Falls in Uganda

Sezibwa Falls

The falls are located in Buikwe district,off the Kampala-Jinja highway at Kayanja trading centre.It is 32 km east of the Ugandan Capital Kampala about an hour’s drive. It is a legendary Buganda Kingdom Cultural site.

It is a sacred place for traditional believers, who believe that if they visited this spot and performed their rituals, their problems will be solved especially those who want to give birth to twins. The traditionalists say they get solutions to their problems after the lapse of nine months thereafter one is expected to come back and give thanks.

Sezibwa History

Site Guide Tenywa, tells us that Sezibwa river flow was able to overcome rock obstacles along its path thus the name. It’s ability to overcome these obstacles impressed the natives at the time leading to a local phrase “Sizibwa Kkubo” meaning “nothing can stop me along my path”. The river flows through 5 districts namely Buikwe, Mukono, Kayunga, Luwero and Nakasongola and finally into Lake Kyoga.

sezibwa-2016

Our guide Tenywa also tells us that there is an interesting legendary tale about the river associated with the falls . The source of this falls is a result one of the two tributaries namely Sezibwa. The two tributary formations, Sezibwa and Bwanda are locally known as Wasswa and Kato. The Baganda a tribe that lives in the area names boy twins Wasswa and Kato and Wasswa is usually the first born. Therefore River Sezibwa and twin Bwanda is believed to have been born by a barren woman who visited a traditional medicine man, who blessed her with twins in the 17th century.

Birding

Our birding visit was very rewarding. The captivating scenery with the falls welcomes you without hesitation. The singing birds too add to your relaxation at the site with different melodies. Our target on this trip was the shy elusive African Fin foot at the river side. However we first took another route in a different direction to catch up with other birds, thanks to our trip secretary Abia (with red hair style) who was celebrating her birthday(11/12/2016). She recorded the following birds below:

Buff-spotted Woodpecker,Northern Crombec,African Grey Parrot,Compact Weaver,Northern black Flycatcher,Diederik Cuckoo,Black Bishop,Western Yellow Wagtail,Dusky-blue Flycatcher,AfricanYellow Whiteeye,African blue Flycatcher,White chinned Prinia,Woodland Kingfisher,Crowned Hornbill,Eastern Plantain Eaters,Northern Grey headed Sparrow,Tambourine Dove,Lesser stripped Swallow,Hadada Ibis,Vieillot’s Black Weaver,Tawny Flanked Prinia,African Ground Thrush,Black and White Mannikin, Grey headed Nigrita,African PygmyKingfisher,African Paradise Flycatcher,Spectacled Weaver,Spotted Flycatcher,Yellow fronted Canary,Brown throated Wattle-eye,Fork tailed Drongo,Double toothed Barbet, Bronze Mannikin,Green throated Sunbird,African Golden breasted, Bunting Willow Warbler ,Speckled Tinkerbird,Scarlet chested Sunbird.

Others included the Splendid Starling,Black and White Casqued Hornbill,Great Blue Turaco,Dark capped Bulbul,Red eyed Dove,Red bellied Paradise Flycatcher,Rock Martin,Grey backed Camaroptera,Olive bellied Sunbird,Yellow Longbill,Palmnut Vulture,Grassland Pipit,Klaas’s Cuckoo,Cassin’s Honeyguide,White headed Sawwing,Collared Sunbird,Grey Woodpecker,Ross’s Turaco,Green Hylia,Fan tailed Widowbird, Gymnogene,White throated Bee-eater,Lizard Buzzard ,Pied crow , etc

We finally saw the Shining Blue Kingfisher and elusive African Finfoot at the river side nature walk trail. For the African Fin Foot it took us a while to track it, almost one hour and half. Waited patiently with the guidance of the site guide until we heard its call then the search started again this time determined to see it. My birding colleagues celebrated rather quietly to avoid scaring the target.

Other fauna sightings included; Red tailed Monkeys, Vervet Monkeys, Tree Squirrel,
Nile Monitor Lizard.

Other activities for nature lovers include bird watching, Nature walks, hiking to the top of the falls and picnic retreats.

It was an exciting retreat for birding and we cannot wait for yet another birding excursion.Thanks to Birding birders team:Arshely Brian,Sylivia Akongo,Abia Atukwatse , Hamidah Nakato and Yakub Birungi.

Birding destinations

Other birding destinations in Uganda include;National Parks like Queen Elizabeth,Murchison Falls,Bwindi impenetrable,Lake Mburo and Mabamba marshland for the iconic Shoebill.

Salford Business School-Social media education

Your social media marketing education- Business School

Unrivaled corporate social responsibility. [Search and Social Media Marketing for International Business pilot MOOC]

I would like to thank you for the free tutorials on social media marketing. It is a great pleasure to have studied the course units related on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, GOOGLE+, You tube and Google Ad words.

I got to know Salford Business School through iversity MOCC #passion4digital.My interest was to understand how to use these social media platforms in the simplest way. I almost gave up the search but fortunately I landed on the Search and Social Media Marketing for International Business pilot MOOC]

Social Media Studies

Most studies available require you to pay a fee for studies. But Salford business school choose to offer it to the world for free. I have always sought similar studies on social media marketing but had not found information like this before. The additional notes below the videos demystified my understanding of the subject matter making it easier to use Facebook, Twitter, Google+, You tube and LinkedIn marketing and Google Ad words. This information has energized my efforts to always seek more knowledge about social media marketing.

My current digital presence

Being a digital marketing enthusiast in Uganda, I was able to start Facebook pages that market me and my tour business (https://www.facebook.com/yakub.birungi & https://www.facebook.com/Rafikisafarisug-1389546194617333/. My twitter accounts @araali2002 &@RafikiSafarisUg too were also dormant with less activity but currently I try my best to tweet. I am yet to update my LinkedIn account and use Google adwords.

I was able to start a personal website & blog on word press (https://vastransportug.com/ after reading examples of former Salford student Vanessa Van Huynh. It was a good wrap up of social media marketing information.

The course may not be a detailed/advanced course but for beginners it is a good foundation.

Lastly but not least the Social media marketing course was quite a worthwhile journey on my learning curve.

Thank you Salford Business School family.

Follow me on twitter and like my Facebook pages. I encourage the Salford Business School family & associates to consider Uganda as their first choice holiday destination in Africa for wildlife viewing,birding,sight seeing,gorilla and chimpanzee tracking.

Hippo2016.1

Hippopotamus at Queen Elizabeth National Park Western Uganda.Photo dedicated to the Business and Tourism Management students.

Semuliki male hot spring

Semuliki Hot Springs-famous water bubbling attraction

Semuliki Hot springs

The hot springs found in Semuliki are a famous attraction in Uganda. They can be visited all year round. Most prominent of them is the “female hotspring “. It has water bubbling up to about 2 meters high creating a steam cloud. Its’s counterpart the male hotspring steams all year round at Semuliki National Park.

Semuliki male Hotsprings pic2

Male Hot spring.

You can visit the park any time throughout the year.It is about 390km away from the Ugandan capital Kampala.

semuliki eggs 3

Tourists at the hot springs can boil eggs that get ready in 8 minutes. Enjoy an egg snack later when ready.

semuliki hotspring male6

 

semuliki hotspring female3

Do not miss a chance to take a photograph of yourself or with fellow travellers near the female hot springs.

Birding paradise

Semuliki is also a famous birding habitat with a record of 441 bird species. The species to look for may include, Maxwell’s Black Weaver, Crested Malimbe, Red-bellied Malimbe, Blue-billed malimbe, Black-casqued Wattled Horbill, Yellow-throated Cuckoo, Piping Hornbill, Red-billed Dwarf Hornbill, Black Dwarf Hornbill, White-crested Hornbill, , Lemon-bellied Crombec. Other bird species include;Red-rumped Tinkerbird, African Piculet, White-throated Blue Swallow, Yellow-throated Nicator, Leaf-love, Swamp Palm Bulbul ,Chestnut-breasted Negrofinch, Orange-cheeked Waxbill.

Primates

Primates such as the chimpanzee, baboon,grey-cheeked mangabey, black-and-white colobus, Central African red colobus, blue, red-tailed, de Brazza’s, Vervet monkey, and Dent’s mona monkeys.

The batwa people are the natives of Semuliki who have been recently relocated near the park to give way to this wildlife conservation area. They are naturally hunters and had always sought food, medicine, shelter and working tools from the forest. Their life style is changing since their relocation. However they have maintained their folklore stories and dances that are part of their rich cultural history.

A visit to Semuliki National Park can be combined with other safari destinations to Queen Elizabeth and Kibale Forest National Parks.