Cycling Safaris in Uganda – Discovering the Hidden Treasures of Uganda on a Ride
Cycling safaris in Uganda have emerged to be a top safari sport over recent years. Although these cycling tours are not yet as vibrant as wildlife safaris and gorilla trekking tours, they are equally worth your attention, money, and time. Taking on a Uganda cycling trip allows you to explore the hidden gems, interact with the communities as well as enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding areas. From the rolling hills of western Uganda to the breathing rugged landscapes of Lake Victoria, Uganda offers the best cycling trails in East Africa.
In this article, you will learn about the different cycling destinations in Uganda, and the trails, highlighting the captivating routes, the incredible wildlife encounters, and the cultural immersion. You will also when is the best time to take on cycling safaris in Uganda.
Why you should go on cycling safaris in Uganda?
You do not want to miss the captivating cycling routes: During your Uganda safari, you do not want to miss the beautiful cycling routes. Uganda’s cycling trails go through rocky hills, river banks, and lake shores. These come with scenic views of animals, birds, and landscapes. For example, taking on a cycling safari in Lake Bunyonyi region gives you a chance to see the many islands of the lake. Additionally, cycling tours in Elgon National Park take you to the beautiful Sipi Falls hence exceptional and captivating views are guaranteed.
Extensive wildlife and game viewing: There is no doubt that travellers on a bicycles take a closer look at wildlife and birds during their safaris. Unlike safari vehicles where travellers are required to remain in their cars, cycling safaris give travellers an added advantage. This is a perfect opportunity for taking the best photos from a closer point of view. Cycling tours in Lake Mburo National Park will introduce you to animals such as warthogs, zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, and several antelope species.
Supporting sustainable tourism: It is important to remember that bicycles do not emit chemical gases into the surroundings. There is limited or no pollution while taking on a Uganda cycling safari. This eco-friendly approach aligns with Uganda’s commitment to conservation and sustainable development.
Cultural Immersion: Uganda is a culturally diverse safari destination; it is home to about 64 tribes. Each tribe offers a unique safari experience and they are all incredible. The best way to explore these communities is by taking on a Uganda Cultural and cycling safari. This will allow you interactions with the local members of the communities and discover new things about African cultures. Entering a riding competition with the locals will give you a chance to make friends and bond with them. This is an opportunity to turn your moments into memories. Riding in the suburbs of Kampala city, Kabale town, or Jinja – the source of the River Nile is a chance for you to taste locally made foods like Rolex, matooke, and Karo.
Where should I go for cycling safaris in Uganda
Almost every safari destination in Uganda is a perfect cycling area however, there are noticeable variations in the trails as well as communities in which cyclists can take their rides. You may talk to your tour operator about where to go for cycling adventures during your Uganda safari. Below are some of Uganda’s best cycling destinations that should not be missed on your itinerary;
Lake Victoria and Entebbe Town: upon your arrival at the Entebbe International Airport, your Uganda cycling adventure can begin there and then. With the help of an experienced guide, you may take a cycling tour around Entebbe town and Lake Victoria. Visit the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Center (former Entebbe Zoo). You will have a glimpse of almost all the animals in Uganda’s national parks including Bengal tigers. Visiting Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary during your cycling safari will introduce you to baby chimps. You may as well go for a shoebill tour at Mabamba Swamp.
Kampala city: You do not want to miss the exceptional Kampala city tour during your Uganda cycling safari. Kampala city tours come with visiting local markets like Nakasero and Kalerwe markets. You will also tour historical sites like Kasubi tombs, Buganda Kingdom Palace, Gadhafi Mosque, and Bahai temple. At the old Kampala hill, you will enjoy exceptional views of the ancient seven hills that make up Kampala city. You will interact with the local members of the communities, and sip a cup of locally made coffee at any coffee shop around the city.
Semuliki National Park: Located in western Uganda, Semuliki National Park is a perfect cycling destination. The park is home to multiple bird species some of which are Rift Valley endemics. Following different cycling trails in Semuliki National Park travelers get an exceptional safari experience. The trails in Semuliki National Park are unique, some are difficult while others are less challenging. Talk to your travel planner about the category of trails you wish to take on.
Lake Mburo National Park: Located in southwestern Uganda, Lake Mburo National Park is yet another reliable destination for cycling safaris in Uganda. The park is the smallest savannah park in Uganda but it is never small in experience. With over 300 bird species, Lake Mburo National Park offers a great safari experience. As soon as you enter the park for your cycling tour, your eyes will be graced with hundreds of zebras, buffaloes, giraffes, warthogs, antelopes, and leopards. The park has undulating hills that give travellers scenic views of the surrounding areas. During your Lake Mburo cycling adventure, you will meet cattle ranches and interact with the locals. Meet the endangered long-horned Ankole cows and learn about the history of the Ankole Kingdom.
Lake Bunyonyi: Lake Bunyonyi is located in the Kabale district and is the deepest Lake in Uganda. The lake was named after many small birds and thus a perfect birding spot in the region. Other than birding, Lake Bunyonyi is a perfect cycling destination in Uganda. You will cycle through the terraced hills of Kabale while enjoying scenic views of the surrounding areas. You can also visit one of the 29 islands on the lake and learn about the stories behind each. The most popular one is the Akempene Island also known as the punishment island. The island was named after being a banishment place for girls who acquired pregnancy before marriage.
Other places reliable for cycling safaris in Uganda include; Jinja – the source of the River Nile, Fort Portal City, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Rwenzori Mountains.
What is the best time to for cycling safaris in Uganda?
You can book your Uganda cycling safaris any time of the year. The best time to take on Uganda cycling tours is during the dry months of June to September and December to February. During this period, the trails are not as slippery hence easy to navigate.
