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Lake Bunyonyi | Adventure in Uganda

Lake Bunyonyi | Adventure in Uganda : also known as a “Place of many little birds” is in South-western Uganda between Kisoro and Kabale. This Lake appeared from 2004 to 2009 on the 5,000 Ugandan shilling note under the title “Lake Bunyonyi and terraces”. Scientific literature generally quote a maximum depth of 40 m (130 ft). However, some tourist guides and locals insist that it is much deeper about 900 m (3,000 ft). Therefore, making it the second-deepest lake in Africa. Towns on its shores include Kyevu and Muko, while some of its 29 islands include Punishment Island and Bushara Island.

Things to do while in Lake Bunyonyi

Swimming

Lake Bunyonyi is known as one of the few lakes in Uganda free of bilharzia making its waters safe for swimming. It’s also free of dangerous wildlife like hippos and crocodiles. However, the only warning for visitors is the depth inexperienced swimmers should take caution.

Ride a Canoe

The most common mode of transportation on these waters is the dugout canoe. These basically offers a complete different perspective of the lake. You can also rent your own to explore the islands or select a guided tour.

Community Walks

Explore the settlements along the shores to experience everyday life among playful children, farmers and women wrapped in multi-colored kangas. One of the excursions sold to tourists is a visit to a Batwa tribe of pygmies. The Batwa are one of the original inhabitants of the country. These were dispossessed of their ancestral lands by the government to build the Echuya Forest Reserve. To survive, they invite tourists to their community, where they perform songs and dance.

Hiking and Nature Walks

Here, you can hike along the best hiking trails on the islands or through the terraces of the Kigezi highlands. While here, you are rewarded with spectacular views of the landscapes and even some wildlife. Forest and tree plantations can be found on some of the islands, as well as monkeys and zebras.

Bird watching

Meaning “the place of little birds”, Lake Bunyonyi takes its name from the abundant birdlife that call it home. Over 200 species are found here, including herons, weaver birds and grey-crowned cranes, etc.

Island hopping

Akampene Island

Translated as Punishment Island, was once the place where the Bakiga dumped unmarried pregnant women and left there to die. This was done as an intimidate to the rest, to show them not to do the same. Their only rescue from drowning or starvation was if a man who was too poor to pay a bride-price came over to claim the banished woman as his wife. There’s nothing to see here, with just one spindly tree in its centre.

Kyahugye Island

Run by Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort, this 35-acre island is worth a visit if you want to see wildlife such as zebra, waterbuck, ipala and kob up close.

Bwama & Njuyeera (Sharp’s) Islands

Many boat drivers will take you to these islands, where British missionary Dr Leonard Sharp founded a leper colony and settled in 1921, although the story is more interesting than the sights. The colony on Bwama was shut down in the 1980s.

How to Get to Lake Bunyonyi

By road it is 6 hours’ drive from Kampala (410km) to Kabale town and 8km marram road from Kabale Town to Lake Bunyonyi. Given its proximity to Rwanda, you may want to consider accessing the lake from Kigali (or vice versa), which is only 1.5-2 hours by car.

Mabira Forest Reserve | Uganda Adventure

Mabira Forest Reserve | Uganda Adventure : this rain forest is located in Buikwe District along the Kampala–Jinja highway. It has been protected as a reserve since 1932 with enormous bio diversity. It consists of about 312 tree species, 218 species of butterflies, 315 bird species and 40 species of small mammals. These include; vervet monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, grey cheeked Mangabey, not to mention but a few. Historically, the reserve suffered tremendously from logging, poaching and encroachment by poor farmers during the Idi Amin’s regime. Later after the end of the civil war in 1985, conservation and reforestation efforts began seriously. As a result, this led to the expulsion of the small farmers from occupying within the forest.

Activities carried out in Mabira forest

Zip lining

Zipline in Mabira forest reserve This activity is only found in Uganda among the East African countries. In fact this activity is done above the tree tops at 60$ per person. During this activity you have a chance of viewing the forest and all creatures that dwell in it. These include; the vervet monkeys, Mangabey monkeys, baboons, red tailed monkeys and many more. Here, you are by accompanied by a professional guide with provided equipment that meets the standard of safety of a visitor. However, this activity is done in two shifts morning and afternoon depending on the visitor’s interest lasting for 4-5 hours.

Birding

Due to the presence fruits and insects, Mabira forest inhabits over 315 bird species. These include; the rare Nahan’s francolin, buff-spotted wood peckers, white-bellied kingfisher. Cassin hawk-eagle, Blake bellied seed cracker, Hadada ibis, Black and white caqued hornbills, etc. Birders are well awarded since these are easily spotted even in one area, and this activity costs from25$ half day to 35$ full day.

Mountain biking

This is an interesting activity carried out in the well maintained trails within the forest. This basically enables you explore the forest and the surrounding communities. The forest has got different trails including; white (5km), yellow (12km) and red trails(33km) which can be completed in one day with a bike. The bikes are hired from the companies in charge and while during this activity, you will have an opportunity to encounter birds, primates, butterflies, and different tree species. This activity costs from 60$ per person (minimum 4 people).

Nature walks

These can be done without a tour guide however for the best experience within the forest you need a resident guide. The guide should be knowledgeable about the ancient tree species, water bodies, primates, butterflies and birds. This activity is perfect for all age groups and doesn’t require any fitness. Since this activity is favorable to everyone it costs only 10$ per person.

Uganda Mangabey monkey trekking

Also known as the Lophocebus Ugandae is a rare type of monkeys commonly found here. These do live in groups of 5 comprising of 30 individuals living in the forest canopy. There are basically 3 habituated groups which are open to tourism. You will also encounter other primates such as the Red tailed and vervet monkeys and bird species as well as butterflies etc.

Camping in Mabira Forest

The flora and fauna found in Mabira forest provides the best environment for camping and picnics. There are picnic sites which are well organized and trails from the picnic sites which take about 20minutes through various forests streams and ancient trees. The hotels arrange for the cultural dances and entertainments that the tourists can enjoy while on their visit. While going for camping you can choose to hire a tent or come along with your own personal tents.

Butterfly Identification

Mabira Forest is one of the places with huge numbers of butterflies. In fact, there are over 218 butterfly species and 97 moth species found in the forest. You will be accompanied by a professional tour guide through the different trails. He will also help you learn more about their different names, characteristics of the different butterfly and moth species thus making your safari an interesting one.

Where to stay

The forest offers you a wide range of lodge accommodations that range from luxury, midrange and budget these include;

The rainforest lodge
The observatory lodge
Nile front cottages
K&K Guest House
Holland Park
Jinja base camp
Villa Anona Guest House

How to get to Mabira Forest

This forest is found along the Kampala–Jinja highway about 54km distance from Kampala and 20km from Jinja by road transport in Najjembe village.

Lake Katwe | Uganda Crater Lakes

Lake Katwe | Uganda Crater Lakes : also known as Katwe-Kikorongo craters are a group of volcanic craters and famous for its salt production. The volcanic field is about 210km2 whereas the individual craters vary in size with the largest 3km wide and 100m deep. Generally, these craters were formed as a result of violent volcanic explosions. As a result, they were caused by super-heated gas and steam but within no flow of lava.

Many of these craters have developed into salt water lakes since they are filled with water from different craters with no outlets. There are mainly 3 crater lakes in Uganda. These include; Lake Katwe, craters on magnificent Kichwamba escarpment and Nandali Kasende in Kibale National Park. Lake Katwe found in Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in the south western part of Uganda in Kasese district. As a matter of fact, this crater lake is known for its salt production. The local salt miners use traditional methods to extract the rock salt directly from the lake which is dried and later sold out. A trip around this Lake will give you a great opportunity to learn about the salt water and also engage in interactions with the salt miners.

Why Lake Katwe is called a salty lake?

Lake Katwe is salty because it has got many water tributaries that bring in water however has got no outlet. During the dry season, there is a lot of evaporation that forms salt solution concentration of about 13.3% forming salt rocks.

Salt mining process at Lake Katwe

Salt mining at here is more favorable in the dry seasons January-March and July-September. The evaporation makes the saline water of Lake Katwe and concentration is increased by the workers. This is done by constructing salt pans at the margins of the Lake. When exposed to the bright sunshine, the brine pans contract rapidly in the process whereby large portions of concentrated salt are formed. Interestingly, this activity is conducted by both males and females.

The females collect off the crusted salt formed on the surface which is normally filtered to make table salt. On the other hand, males scoop the salt blocks from the bottom of the lake which is usually at the shallow end of the lake. There are 3 types of salt extracted which include; highly crystalized salt which is best for human consumption. Unwashed salt which is used for tenderizing meat and beans locally during cooking and crude salt which is used as salt licks for cows.

How dangerous is salt mining?

This activity is extremely dangerous to both women and men since it is toxic and affects the reproductive system of humans. In fact, it leads to impotence and barrenness among both sexes. Nevertheless, in order to avoid this women apply flour in the private parts to avoid the toxic water from entering them. Besides, the males put on condoms to avoid being affected too. In addition, the bad smell from the evaporating saline water also affects their health. However, since it’s there only source of income they do bear with these challenges so as to sustain their families and meet their basic needs.

Other challenges

They do get less income from this activity since there are other salt lakes discovered in other parts of the country. Therefore, in order to increase their source of income they do engage in craft making. These are usually displayed along the roadsides which you can buy from them as a way of supporting them.

Are their animals seen around Lake Katwe?

Yes, animals such as elephants are seen around the salt licks which constituent their diet. In places where the salt licks are hard, elephants will dig into the termite anthills. These actually contain salt red soils which they feed on.

Other activities to do while at Lake Katwe

Craft making
Culture
Visit the local’s community towns to learn more about their life styles.
Vegetation and animals which are seen along the way.
Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Where to stay while at Lake Katwe?

Hippo hill lodge
Forest Hog Safari Camp
Tembo safari Lodge

How do I get to Lake Katwe?

While in Queen Elizabeth National Park you will be accompanied by a tour guide. Here, you will have a view and interaction with the salt miners.

Bigo bya mugenyi | Uganda Cultural Site

Bigo bya mugenyi | Uganda Cultural Site: translated as the “Fort of a stranger” is an extensive alignment of ditches and geographical features. These comprise of ancient earth works which are believed to have been put in place between the 13^th and 17^th centuries. The place is located in the inter-lacustrine regions of south western Uganda in Mawogola County. Furthermore, the place is believed to have been the first settlement for the Bachwezi group (duo–rule dynasty).

These are also considered as the first settlers in Uganda between the 11^th and 16^th centuries. The inner part of Bigo bya Mugyenyi is made up of 4 openings that pour into each other while the outer trails connects with Katonga River. According to stories from the locals and legends the historical site was dug out to shelter the Chwezi Empire. This was done to avoid incursions from other foreigners such as the Luo from South Sudan. The origin of these people is not known however, the historical site is preserved as one of the country’s culture treasures.

Interesting facts about Bigo bya Mugenyi

As you make your way into Bigo bya Mugenyi you will be accompanied by an armed tour guide. He will later lead you through a place called Kabeho. This place has got some of the cultural tools that were used by the Bachwezi guards. In fact, these were used before making their destination to rivers Katonga and Kachinga. These include; arrows, spears, shields, not to mention but a few. Tourists do fetch water from these spots for cleansing themselves before taking on the long treks to Bigo bya Mugyenyi. The idea of cleansing is to seek for protection from the gods so that they don’t get annoyed with you. After cleansing yourselves, you will proceed on with your journey to Bigo bya Mugyenyi through the jungle. This is believed to harbor dangerous wildlife such as leopards, bush bucks, water bucks and reptiles such as snakes.

However, these animals have never attacked tourists even if you come insight with them. As a matter of fact, it is believed by the locals that once it rains while still at the historical site it shows bad omen. After along trail, you will enter into Bigo bya Mugenyi which is filled with numerous grass thatched huts particularly set up to shelter the keepers. You will also have sight of a well maintained and fenced site. Here, the locals go for prayers asking for blessings and wealth from the Chwezi gods. Besides, the Bachwezi people were believed to have mysterious powers. These include; leaving foot prints on rocks, vanishing in thin air, flying with wind, etc.

How to get to Bigo bya Mugenyi?

Bigo bya Mugenyi is 60km from Sembabule town Centre however, tourists are supposed to first visit the tourism office which is within a given distance from the site.

Gorilla Habituated Groups | Uganda Gorilla Safaris

Gorilla Habituated Groups | Uganda Gorilla Safaris : this was initially introduced by the Uganda Wildlife authority for visitors. Additionally, this adventure gives tourists more time with a greater chance to get to know more about the mountain gorillas. In Uganda gorilla habituation is mostly done in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park with over 12 habituated Groups. On the other hand, Mgahinga has got only one habituated gorilla family called Nyakagezi. However, only two groups at Nkuringo and Rushaga were set aside as the gorilla families available for habituation. These include; Bushaho and Bikingi Gorilla families and both located in Bwindi. Bikingi is located in the Rushaga sector of Park while Bushaho family thrives within the Nkuringo sector.

What you need to know about Gorilla Habituation

Here, only 4 tourists are allowed to be part of the habituation.
The mountain gorilla habituation permit is sold at $1500 per person for FNR while for EAC 750,000/=
Permits can be bought from the Uganda wildlife authority or got through a trusted tour operator.
The gorilla habituation permits should be booked early enough since there are very few slots for tourists. Besides, that the mountain gorilla habituation process is a highly desired activity.
Tourists are expected to report to the park headquarters by 7:30 am in the morning for a briefing about the whole process. While here, they are also told about the major safety procedures to follow while in the forest. This is done to ensure a successful jungle expedition and to get the best of the habituation experience.
The mountain gorilla habituation rules and regulations are similar to the mountain gorilla trekking rules.
After the briefing, tourists are directed to the forest as they follow the mountain gorilla group undergoing habituation. The four hours with the gorillas does not include the time taken to hike. This makes habituation experience a very enjoyable activity more than just mountain gorilla tracking where tourists only spend an hour.

Mountain Gorilla Groups

Uganda hosts 17 habituated gorilla families and each gorilla family is appointed 8 gorilla permits per day for visitors.

Rushegura gorilla group

This family is located in Buhoma and has 19 members with one silverback. However, the number may change depending on members joining in and out, new born arrival and death. In fact, the group separated from its former family Habinyanja in Rushegura place in the year 2002. The separation was led by Mwirimu who loved staying at a close range with his family members. He later broke away with 7 members including 5 females, other gorillas joined him and they became 12 members.

In 2010 he became stable with his family which increased to 19 members. At the age of 25 Mwirima shows his strength of ruling and even winning fights over other wild gorillas. The family used to cross to the neighboring country DRC but always came back and settled in their home of Bwindi. This group is one of the calmest families and are usually seen wandering around the lodge gardens. They do not shy away from visitors, which gives them a chance to have a close look as they carry out their daily activities.

Habinyanja gorilla group

The family is in Buhoma sector and derives its name from a Rukinga word “Nyanja”, “a place with water”. The reason for this name is that the group was first seen near swamp ponds in Bwindi Park. Generally, the gorilla family was habituated in 1997 and first visited by tourists in 1999. At the time of habituation the group was led by the dominant silverback “Mugurisi” which means “Old man”. After passing away because of old age, the two brothers Rwansigazi and Mwirima shared power. Rwansigazi was supposed to succeed Mugurisi but because at the time of his death Mwirima had equally grown stronger and thus wanted challenge for family leadership.

Gorillas in Bwindi For several years, Rwansigazi and Mwirima shared power after their father’s death. However, as time went on the two were so different that the group couldn’t continue. Rwansigazi was an adventurous gorilla and liked travelling while Mwirima preferred to stay at a small range. In 2002 the two silverbacks decided to separate without any fights. Those members that preferred adventure followed Rwansigazi while those who preferred a small range remained with Mwirima. The group that followed Rwansigazi maintained the name Habinyanja while the members who stayed with Mwirima came to be known as the Rushegura family.

Mubare gorilla group

This is also located in Buhoma and consists of 8 individuals including 1 silverback. This gorilla group was the first habituated within Uganda and was open to tourists in 1993. The group was named after the gorgeous Mubare Hills where it was first seen. Initially, the family had 18 gorillas however some of them moved to different groups. In addition, life loss during fights as well as the death of a baby in 2009 reduced to 5 members. In March 2012, the family was attacked by a wild gorilla group who broke Ruhondeza’s leadership.

They took away some of the females and Ruhondeza took refuge in a nearby community forest. He continued to be monitored by researchers, until he died in his sleep on 27 June 2012. In the meantime, successor Kanyonyi managed to expand the family and increased it to eight members including a baby named Kashundwe. Gorilla trekking in this group is much adorable due to the increase in number of members. Recently, the group was filled with joy when they welcomed two babies in the same year 16^th October and 7^th November 2019.

Bitukura Gorilla group

It is located in Ruhija part of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and is the most recent habituated gorilla family. As a matter of fact, this mountain gorilla family was named after a river that bears the same name. Here, habituation started in July 2007 whereby the group was opened for tourism in October 2008. It normally takes two years of habituation training interestingly, this group was ready for visitors in 15 months. The group originally consisted of 24 members however reduced to 14 members. It is a peaceable family with four silverbacks having the second youngest silverback Ndahura as their leader. Despite the other group recruits and loss or several members, the Bitukura Gorilla Group gets along with one another.

Oruzogo gorilla group

This is also found in Ruhija sector of Bwindi and consisted of 23 members including 1 Silverback. The family was initially opened for tourism on 20^th June 2011 and was led by a dominant Silverback “Tibirikwata”. In fact, its one of the most popular families with tourists because of the playful energetic juveniles and toddlers in the group. The family experienced a growth in number due to the births whereby it received more joy when a set of twins was born in March 2012.

Mishaya Gorilla group

Located in Rushaga area in the southwestern part of Bwind, was once part of the Nshongi gorilla group. In 2010 Silverback Mishaya decided to form its own new family which consisted of 12 individuals with 1 silverback. However, figures went on changing due to births, deaths, friends and much more. Silverback was known for his aggressiveness that he fought and was seen in many battles with other gorilla groups as well as unhabituated gorilla families.

His interactions with other gorilla groups could result into fights that won him females to join and expand his family. In 2011, Mishaya was involved in a heated fight with an unhabituated gorilla family. As a result, this left him and a 2 year old infant with injuries all over the body. This was reported by the trackers as ‘severely injured’ and treated by veterinarians from the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project. Unfortunately, Silverback lived only 28 years and on 3^rd Feb 2014 he lost his life. He was found dead by the park trackers in the morning, with neither injuries nor history of illness.

Bweza gorilla group

Located in Rushaga sectorand consisted of 7 members including 1 silverback and 2 infants. The group started with the Nshongi family which was the largest family but later split into more groups. This was as a result of some misunderstandings between its members. It had fights in 2013 and therefore Bweza the Silverback opted to finally break away from the rest of the family. The park rangers thought the family would get back but unfortunately they didn’t and this prompted the group to be opened for tourism in the year 2012.

Busingye gorilla group

Also located in Rushaga sector of Bwindi and initially consisted of 9 members. The name Busingye means “peace” and this group separated from Kahungye family. The two separated in the August 2012 due to some misunderstandings.

Nshongi gorilla group

The gorilla group is also located in Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and consists of 36 individuals. The word Nshongi derives from “Omushongi Gwoboki” meaning “honey” and referred to the deep color of the river. Habituation here begun in 2007 and it was officially launched for tourism on 26^th September 2009. In 2010, the group split into two; the Nshongi group and Mishaya group.

Kahungye gorilla group

Kahungye is found in Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. The name Kahungye comes from a hill in Rushaga where the family was first spotted. Generally, it comprised of 13 members including 3 Silverbacks. However the number keeps on changing due to a number of factors. These include; demise of gorillas, new births, new entrants, not to mention but a few. The family was opened for tourism in October 2011 but unfortunately they split in less than a year to give birth to a new group called Busingey Gorilla Group.

Nkuringo gorilla group

This can be trekked Nkuringo sector of Bwindi and it was opened up for tourism in 2004. Nkuringo is a Rukiga word meaning a “round hill” and the group consisted of 17 members but went on reducing to 12 members. Furthermore, it was the first gorilla group to be habituated in the entire southern sector of park in 1997. The group was led by an elderly silverback Nkuringo who later died in April 2008 leaving behind two silverbacks. These include; Safari and Rafiki and it was Safari who took over the leadership. Additionally, it was the first gorilla family to welcome a set of twins from mother Kwitonda. They were named Katungi and Muhozi but unfortunately Katungi died at the age of 1.5 years due to illness.

Christmas gorilla group

Based in Nkuringo sector of Bwindi and it is led by a dominant silverback known as Christmas. This Christmas is believed to have been born on Christmas day and the family has 9 members. These include; 3 adult females, 3 black backs and two infants but mainly 6 members seen moving around.

Nyakagezi gorilla group

As a matter of fact, this is only family inhabiting the Mgahinga National Park and it consists of 10 members with 3 silverbacks. Initially, the group was led by the Silverback Mark who led and protected the Nyakagezi gorilla group. This group also liked travelling and crossing borders between Uganda, Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo. Later, returned and settled at the Mgahinga National Park in 2012 with 10 members. In fact, more news came up in 2013 when the group welcomed a new born baby increasing the number to 11 members.

Ethnic Groups in Uganda | Cultural Safaris

Ethnic Groups in Uganda | Cultural Safaris : are indigenous groups in Uganda with different ways of life, beliefs and region. As a result of migration and intermarriage, most Ugandans have ancestors from a variety of Uganda’s 34 ethnic groups. About two-thirds speak Bantu languages and live in the south. These include; the Ganda with 18.0 percent, Nyankole 9.9 percent, Kiga 8.3 percent and Soga 8.2 percent.

Furthermore, one-sixth of Uganda’s people are Western Nilotic speakers living in the north. These include; Langi with 5.9 percent as well as Acholi with 4.4 percent. Another one-sixth speak an Eastern Nilotic language and live in the northeast. These include; the Iteso with 6.0 percent and Karamojong with 2.1 percent. Finally, at the extreme northwest are speakers of Sudanic languages including the Lugbara 3.5 percent and the Madi 1.1 percent. Besides, English is the official language of Uganda, though Swahili is more widely spoken and used as a lingua franca. Luganda, the language of the Ganda, is the most frequently used indigenous tongue.

Common Ethnic Groups in Uganda

The Karamojong Culture

The name Karamojong basically means “the old tired men who stayed behind.” These are fierce warrior pastoralists found in the north eastern corner of Uganda bordering southern Sudan and Kenya. The Karamajongs in thier manyattas are located near Kidepo valley national park. Here, you will meet a proud and fierce group of semi nomadic pastoralists with a rich cultural heritage.

Origin of the Karamojongs

The Karamajong originated from the southerly migration by the Jie, an Abyssinian pastoralists 300-400 years ago. On reaching Kenyan-Ugandan-Sudanese boarder, the Jie split to create the Toposa of southern Sudan, Turkan of Kenya and Dodoth of northern Uganda. However, some of the Turkana Jie crossed the mountains. These line the present day boarder Kenyans to the plains of northeastern Uganda. On the other hand, some groups remained around Kotido as the Uganda Jie.

Meanwhile, others continued further until the aged parents among them became fed up with walking. Thus, the word ‘karamajong’ meaning the old men can walk no further or the old men sat down. Interestingly, the youth among them continued nomadic life style further southwards. Reportedly consisting of seven groups or clans who settled in today’s southern karamoja eventually merging to become the three clans now existing. These include Metheniko in the east around Moroto mountain, Pian in the south and Bokora in the west. However, a significant sized group went west and formed the Iteso, Kumam and Langi. In conclusion, it was this group who were said to have used the phrase “the old men can walk no further.

Karamojong facts

Religion

The Karamojong still follow their traditional religion and believe in a god Akuj unlike other tribes that have adopted Christianity. As a matter of fact, they consider cattle royalty and it is the measure of a man. A man is valued according to how many cattle he has and these people live for their cattle. They will do everything they possibly can to find good pasture and water for their cattle. However, this is a difficult task considering the fact that the Karamoja region very dry. These people also live in complete harmony with nature whereby they do not dress up much, they are usually half naked and decorated in tribal markings.

The Karamojong life style

Roles here are quite simply defined, men go out to find pasture and water for the cattle. Women stay back in the Manyatta to take care of the homestead while children tend the gardens. Life in Karamoja is communal whereby things are done together and for the good of the entire community. Here Men can take as many wives as they want as long as they have the dowry to pay for them. In fact, it is one of those societies where dowry is still taken very seriously.

The Manyattas

Visiting a Manyatta is a unique experience from the structure of the village, the homesteads, to the people and the language. Scarcely dressed children will greet you in a very welcoming manner as you enter the village. You will also see old men reclining on headrest stools wrapped in tunics. Here, you will also have an opportunity of sharing tales of old to the young. Through interaction, you will also know about the traditions and ways of these people.

The interior of their homes is mostly smeared with dung and mud and they do not have beds and much furniture. Nevertheless, they are proud of the little they have and do not take it for granted. The Karamojong Manyattas are interesting to visit since they are one of a kind you will not find else in Uganda. However, a visit to the Manyattas is not complete without music and dance. You are free to as well join in and jump as high as you can to the music.

What to carry during your visit to the Karamojongs

Since it is scorching hot especially in the dry season, remember to carry a wide brimmed hat and sun glasses for protection. Jeans instead of shorts are also better not only because they are more culturally acceptable in the villages. Besides, you will also need the protection from the thorn bushes. Otherwise, you can plan this culture together with a visit to Kidepo valley national park.

The Sabiny’s (Sebei)

Sebei is basically an ethnic group in Uganda which speaks Sebei, a Nilotic language. Many members of this ethnic group occupy three districts of Kapchorwa, Kween and Bukwa found in Eastern Uganda. Their territory borders the Republic of Kenya which is a home to more than five million Kalenjin, a large ethnic group to which the Sebei belongs. They are mainly known as Sabiny, speak sabiny. It is a Kalenjin dialect spoken by other smaller groups of Kalenjin stock around Mount Elgon. The Sebei and these smaller groups inhabiting the hills of Mount Elgon collectively are referred to as the Saboat. However, the Sabiny like the rest of the Kalenjin, circumcise teenage boys and girls as a rite of passage.

History of the Sebei or Sabiny people

Modern Sebei consists of three formerly independent but closely interrelated tribes. These live on the northern and northwestern slopes of Mount Elgon in eastern Uganda. The term Sebei has come into use in modern administrative parlance. As a result, the descendants of these three tribes now identify themselves as Sebei. In language and culture, the Sebei are closely affiliated to the people on the southern slopes of Elgon.

The Batwa people and their Culture

These are short indigenous people who were forest-dwelling hunter-gatherers. The live and practiced their cultural and economic way of life in the high mountainous forest areas. This was around Lake Kivu and Lake Edward in the Great Lakes region of Central Africa. These Batwa are widely accepted as the first inhabitants of the region who were later joined by farmers and pastoralists. Besides, they are found in Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda and eastern DRC.

Their traditional forested territories were destroyed by agriculturalists and pastoralists or gazetted as nature conservation areas. As a result, they were forced to abandon their traditional lifestyle based on hunting and gathering. However some were able to develop new means of survival as potters. Others resorted to dancers and entertainers while others became dependent on occasional work and begging. Today, the Batwa live in small communities and they welcome travelers in their homes. Thereby sharing with them detailed information regarding their traditional forest life. Batwa are believed to have loved the forest like their lives. In fact, they knew well that God had blessed them with the forest as their own.

The Batwa Cultural Experience

The Batwa cultural experience was created by the displaced Batwa pygmies. This was basically to educate their children and to share their amazing heritage and traditions with the world. Therefore, a day spent with the Batwa gives you the opportunity to enjoy the following:

Hike in the forest with the twa guide who will provide you with the chance to see the forest and its habitants through their eyes.
Additionally, see how they lived and hunted in the traditional manner. Enjoy trying out your hunting techniques as they teach you how to shoot with a bow and arrow.
Visit a traditional Batwa homestead and learn from the women how to prepare, cook and serve a meal.
Furthermore, talk to a medicine man and learn about the medicinal properties of the forest flora.
In addition, hear ancient legends and traditional songs.

Batwa trails in Bwindi are different from the Batwa trail in Mgahinga gorilla national park. However, they both experiences reward you with a memorable experience.

Why visit the Batwa communities?

Batwa pygmies have an interesting history of how they harmoniously lived together with wild animals in the forest. Besides they trying to adapt to a normal life after their eviction from the forest. Batwa have now started different coffee shops whereby travelers can enjoy coffee as they listen to stories. On the other hand, others make craft products such as baskets, hand bags, hats, mats, etc. Therefore, travelers are encouraged to buy these products as an indirect support to these less developed people. More so, an interaction with the Batwa is a great opportunity to understand in depth their co-existence with wild animals. In conclusion, be part of Batwa community trails in Bwindi, meet the indigenous forest people and enjoy a memorable time.

The Bamasaba/ Imbalu Culture

These Bamasaba ancestor, Maswahaba migrated from the Ethiopian Mountains traveling via Lake Turkana to Sironko. They later settled around Bududa where he fell in love with a Maasai girl who was known as Nabarwa. The family of Nabarwa demanded that in order for Maswahaba to marry their daughter he had to undergo their rite of circumcision which he agreed to.

Culture

Circumcision among the Bagisu occurs during the leap years and held every two years during August. Initially, the culture of circumcision was adopted by the Bamasaba from their in-laws the Maasai people. The men among the Bagisu tribe undergo initiation ceremonies known as (Imbalu) whereby the ritual is performed upon reaching puberty. However, those who abscond are hunted down and forcefully and scornfully circumcised.

Before the day of circumcision, the initiates are tuned up by having them walk and dance. This is done around the villages for three days and here their heads are sprinkled with cassava flour. They are also painted with malwa-yeast past and their relatives dance with them. There is much drumming and singing as a sign of happiness in the culture. This is because it is believed that once a boy is circumcised he becomes a true Mugisu and mature person. Besides, the Bamasaaba ancestors survived on Bamboo shoots also known as malewa in the Lugisu language. These bamboo shoots are basically collected from bamboo trees on top of Mt. Elgon.

The Ik People and their Culture

The Ik tribe sometimes called Teso; is an indigenous community residing in Karamoja region, northeast of Uganda. It is also part of the cultural safaris to Kidepo National park. In the local language “Ik” loosely translates to ahead of migration or the first to migrate here. Actually, they migrated from Ethiopia, first settled in Kenya and later migrated to the Karamoja region. True to the meaning of their name, they were the first settlers in Karamoja region.

This was as a result of running away from their warrior neighbors. Compared to the Toposa, Turkana and Jie of the semi-arid East African region, the Ik community did not have a lot of wealth. However, they kept a few heads of cattle, goats, sheep as well as hens. They also possessed special skills at hunting wild game, gathering edible fruits, flowers, leaves, etc. Besides, they cultivated land to grow some food crops in the Karamoja plains. This Ik tribe inhabits the Morungole mountain ranges that rise to 2,750m from the Karamoja plains. The most exciting of all is interaction and sharing the life experiences with the Ik people.

The Ik lifestyle

Marriage customs

The Ik communities gather in villages and the entire village, odok is fenced against foreign intruders and wild animals. On the other hand, the individual households, asak have a large yard that may consist of different things. These include; a food granary, rack for household utensils, kraal for goats and sheep and pit latrine. They are traditional polygamists and marry as many wives since they are able to pay dowry. Basically the community measures dowry in number of goats, sheep, chicken, beehives and monetary cash.

To the rest of the world these are so cheap items to talk of, but to the Ik they are very hard to get. Interestingly, the Ik husbands elect an asak for each wife and husbands make rotational visits in the same odok. The traditional Ik culture embraces wife inheritance after losing a partner or divorce. Sex promiscuity is highly punishable, incest is a taboo and adultery are punishable by death. Since youths have their own asak, it is possible to get partners and date in secrecy.

Child bearing

This is sign of blessings to humankind and to the Ik tribe raising children is a social responsibility. The parents share the asak with infants up to a certain age and then the grandparents pick them up. These grandparents are a living information data bank from which children acquire basic life survival skills. Later, at an average age of 13 years, the grandchildren leave their grandparents asak. Boys of the same age group elect their own asak and live as a gang while girls are “mature” ready for marriage. In conclusion a visit to these cultures will give you a true image of the Africa in its original sense.

Chimpanzee Interesting Facts | Chimpanzee Trekking

Chimpanzee Interesting Facts | Chimpanzee Trekking : is a specie of great ape native to the forests and savannahs of tropical Africa. As a matter of fact, in the whole world there are four confirmed subspecies. In fact, the chimpanzee and the closely related bonobo (pygmy chimpanzee) are classified in the genus Pan. The Eastern chimpanzee (Pt. shweinfurthii) is a subspecies that occurs in different countries. These include; Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan, DRC and Central African Republic.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda

This activity generally allows you to step into the jungle in search of these great apes. During this activity, you are given a maximum of one hour in their presence standing from a safe distance of 7m. While here, you are allowed to enjoy their daily activities as well as take photos and videos for remembrance. Besides chimpanzee trekking, we have also got chimpanzee habituation that can be enjoyed while in Uganda. Basically in Uganda we have 3 major chimp trekking destinations. These include; Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park in Kyambura Gorge and Murchison Falls National Park in Budongo forest. However, Kibale has the highest population and the best views of these endangered primates. Therefore, ranked as the best destination in Uganda for chimpanzee trekking.

Chimpanzee Subspecies

The four subspecies of the common chimpanzee that have been recognized and these include;

Central chimpanzee; found in Cameroon, Central African Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and DRC.
Western chimpanzee; found in Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ivory Coast and Ghana.
Eastern chimpanzee; in Central African Republic, South Sudan, DRC, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania and Zambia
Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee; found in Nigeria and Cameroon.
Southeastern chimpanzee; found in Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda.

Chimpanzee Facts

Appearance and physiology

A chimpanzee adult male weigh between 40–60 kg with females weighing between 27–50 kg. In addition, the arms of a chimp are longer than its legs, and can reach below the knees. The hands have long fingers with short thumbs and flat fingernails whereas the feet are adapted for grasping. It has forward-facing eyes, a small nose, rounded non-lobed ears and a long mobile upper lip. Chimpanzee bodies are covered by coarse hair, except for the face, fingers, toes, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet. They also lose more hair as they age, and develop bald spots. On the other hand, the hair of a chimp is typically black but can be brown. As they get older, white or grey patches may appear, particularly on the chin and lower region.

Ecology

The common chimpanzee is particullay a highly adaptable species. It lives in a variety of habitats, including dry savanna evergreen rainforest, swamp forest and dry woodland savanna mosaic. Besides, chimpanzee makes a night nest in a tree in a new location every night. Here, every chimpanzee in a sleeps in separate nest other than infants or juvenile chimpanzees, which sleep with their mothers.

Hunting

Chimpanzees generally hunt where the forest canopy is interrupted or irregular. In fact, this allows them to easily corner the monkeys when chasing them in the appropriate direction. Chimps may also hunt as a coordinated team so that they can corner their prey even in a continuous canopy. However, male chimps hunt more than females. When caught and killed, the meal is distributed to all hunting party members and even bystanders.

Diet

To begin with, a chimpanzee is an omnivorous animal but prefers fruit above all other food items. Other foods include; leaves, leaf buds, seeds, blossoms, stems, pith not to mention but a few. While the common chimpanzee is mostly herbivorous, it does eat honey, soil, insects, birds and their eggs, and small to medium-sized mammals, including other primates. However, the majority of their diet consists of fruits, leaves, roots, and other plant matter. Female chimpanzees appear to consume much less animal flesh than males, according to several studies.

Mating and parenting

These primates mate throughout the year and adulthood males can have their first child around 15yrs. However, the females have their first child between 13 and 14 years old. Meanwhile, the number of females in oestrus varies seasonally in a group. During oestrus, females mate with several males in their community. A community’s dominant male sometimes restrict reproductive access to females. Here, females sometimes leave their community and mate with males from neighboring communities. In addition, chimpanzees have a gestation period of eight months and care for the young is mostly provided by their mothers.

Interestingly, their first 30 days, infants cling to their mother’s bellies. Mothers provide their young with food, warmth, protection and teach them certain skills. A baby chimpanzee is born with a cute pink face and white hair on their backside that disappears with age. However, baby chimps are helpless whereby their grasping reflex is not strong enough to support them for more than a few seconds. When they reach five to six months, infants ride on their mothers’ backs and remain in continual contact for the rest of their first year. Adolescent females move between groups and are supported by their mothers in agonistic encounters. However, adolescent males spend time with adult males in social activities like hunting and boundary patrolling.

Mortality

The average lifespan of a chimpanzee is usually less than 15 years. Captive chimps live longer with median lifespans of 31.7 years for males and 38.7 years for females. Leopards are recorded to have preyed on chimpanzees in some areas though chimps may react to a leopard’s presence. This is done through loud vocalizing, branch shaking and throwing objects.

Tool use

Actually all chimpanzee populations have been recorded using tools whereby they modify sticks, rocks, grass, and leaves. In this situation they use them when foraging for honey, termites, ants, nuts and water. Due to lack of complexity, fore thought and skill are apparent in making these tools. Chimps also use leaves as sponges or spoons to drink water.

Group structure

They live in communities that typically range from 20-150 members. However, spend most of their time travelling in small groups consisting of a few individuals. These may consist of any combination of age and sex classes but males and females sometimes travel alone. At the core of social structures are males which roam around, protect group members and search for food.

Besides males remain in their natal communities while females generally emigrate at adolescence. Males in a community are more likely to be related to one another than females are to each other. Low-ranking males commonly switch sides in disputes between more dominant individuals. They also benefit from an unstable hierarchy and have increased sexual opportunities. In addition, conflicts between dominant males cause them to focus on each rather than the lower-ranking males.

Communication

These endangered primates generally use facial expressions, postures and sounds to communicate with each other. Chimps also have expressive faces which are important in close-up communications. When frightened, a “full closed grin” causes nearby individuals to be fearful as well. They may also express themselves with the “pout” which is made in distress. The “sneer” which is made when threatening or fearful and “compressed-lips face” which is a type of display. While travelling, chimps keep in contact by beating their hands and feet. They beat them against the trunks of large trees, an act known as “drumming”. They also do this when encountering individuals from other communities.

Frequently asked questions

How long do chimpanzees live?

Generally the chimpanzee’s lifespan in the wild is around 38 to 40 years. In captivity a female chimpanzee can live up to 39 years while the male lives up to 32 years old.

What do chimpanzees eat?

As a matter of fact, chimpanzees are omnivorous, but eat fruit more than anything else. Most of a chimpanzee’s diet comes from our bits of plants (seeds, leaves, roots, resin etc). However, will also eat insects, honey, birds and bird eggs, mammals and even soil.

Where do chimpanzees live?

As a highly adaptable species, chimpanzees inhabit a range of habitats. These include; tropical rainforest, montane rainforests, less densely vegetated forest-savannah mosaics and even dry savannah.

Where can you find chimpanzees in Uganda?

In Uganda you can track chimpanzees in Kibale, Queen in Kyambura Gorge and Murchison Falls in Budongo forest. How We also have chimps in Ngamba Island Sanctuary which is a home of orphaned chimpanzees.

How strong are chimps?

These animals are enormously strong estimated to be around four times stronger than a human of a similar size. They can also reach speeds of 25mph (40kph) when running. In addition, thier arms are designed to swing them through the trees. They also have a much higher proportion of fast-twitch muscle fibers, which seems to be what gives them their extraordinary strength.

Do chimpanzees live in groups?

At least chimpanzees live in groups which range in size from 15-150 members. They live in fission-fusion societies meaning that the size and composition of their social groups changes over time. These animals also spend the majority of their time in small temporary groups. They also spend it with just a few individuals known as ‘parties’ but also associate with a wider group known as a ‘community’.

Can chimpanzees use tools?

These are basically one of the few animals that are known to use tools. These includes the use of sticks to retrieve termites from their mounds. Stones to open up appetizing nut contents and leaf-sponges to soak up drinking water.

Can chimpanzees communicate?

Basically chimpanzees make around 30 different vocalizations. The most common and loudest is the pant-hoot, a long-distance call. It is used for a variety of social reasons but particularly for keeping in touch with fellow troop members.

When do chimps reproduce?

The chimp has generally got a gestation period of eight months. The infant is weaned at about three years old and usually maintains a close relationship with its mother. Females will reach reproductive maturity by age 13 and can give birth at any time of the year. Chimpanzees exhibit large pink sexual swellings on their behinds which advertise their fertility to prospective mates. They usually give birth to just one infant. infants will cling tightly to its mother’s fur for their first 30 days, and then take rides on her back until two years of age.

Can chimps walk on two legs?

Surprisingly, chimps get around by climbing and swinging through trees. They also walk on all fours (knuckle-walking) but they can also walk upright on two feet if they want to.

How clever are chimpanzees?

By using tools, some chimpanzees have even been able to learn basic human sign language.