Whereas we understand that there are days that don’t go as per our wish, having to reset or escape the land for water is often the best alternative. Spending time in water has over time been proven as therapy that heals the soul and spirit. The stillness of the water opens up your mind, removing fear or anger as you relax in a place with no noise or any sort of interruption. Unwind and restart with a boat cruise safari in Uganda.
Uganda is a beautiful landlocked country in the eastern region of the African continent, neighbored by South Sudan to the north, Rwanda, and Tanzania to the south, Kenya to the east, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west. There are over eight cities in the country with the capital and oldest city being Kampala founded within seven hills. As a visitor, be sure of safety, meeting new people, and experiencing a variety of local cuisines while on a boat safari.
Water bodies occupy about 37,000 square kilometers of land in the east, west, south, and northern parts of the country. There are about 165 freshwater lakes, rivers, dams, crater lakes, and waterfalls. Additional water-based activities include white water rafting, sport fishing, and swimming among others. Now that you know, book your boat safari in any of the following destinations.
Boat safaris in national parks
To uncover more during your wildlife safari across the different national parks in Uganda, a boat cruise is a must-do. The most famous is a boat cruise at the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park. A boat cruise in Lake Mburo National Park is also a common activity and the ultimate experience at the bottom of Murchison Falls in Murchison Falls National Park. Boat cruises are done either in the morning hours starting a 9 am or in the afternoon hours from 2 pm.
The time duration is about two hours, with views of hippos, crocodiles, different aquatic birds, animals such as elephants, waterbuck, and more. Murchison Falls National Park boat cruise to the feet of the world’s most powerful waterfall, Murchison Falls. Major national parks offering boat cruise activities are Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Lake Mburo National Park.
Lake Victoria boat safaris
Boat safaris in Lake Victoria is an experience in the second largest freshwater lake in Africa. This is the ultimate experience for those in and around Kampala and Entebbe where the water body passes. Less time is spent getting to exotic beaches such as the Euro beach where most beach activities are done.
Experts are present to usher you into the waters. Lake Victoria is safe, with rare cases of crocodiles, tough water waves, or hippos that pose a danger to those on the ride. You may want to watch the sought-after rare shoe bill stock at Mabamba Island with a boat cruise safari. There is always a weekend boat cruise to the islands with the MV Kalangala.
River Nile boat safaris
River Nile is arguably the longest river on earth with its source starting from Jinja in the eastern part of Uganda. It is also in this river where Mahat Magadhi’s ashes were poured thus a great significance to whoever visits. There are short boat rides to that point where the source of the Nile.
This is where the river is birth, and starts her three-month Journey to the Mediterranean Sea. While on the ride, you get to watch some of the aquatic birds on the water.
Lake Bunyonyi Boat cruise
Located in the southwestern part of Uganda; Lake Bunyonyi offers one of the best boat safaris. Locally, the name Bunyonyi means “birds” as they dominate the place. The serenity of the area welcomes you for a remarkable experience where you get to explore the different islands of the area while listening to the stories of the over 29 islands surrounding the lake. The canoe ride is done by the natives of the areas with experience, and knowledge of the place.
Best time for boat safaris and what to carry?
Weekends, weekdays, any time is perfect for a boat cruise experience safari in Uganda. The activity often lasts for approximately 30 minutes to 3 hours. with the identification of a variety of aquatic life such as water ducks, hippos, and crocodiles to mention but a few.
The best time for boat safaris is during the dry season which is often between June to September and late December to March. Regardless, it doesn’t rule off the other months since rain is but for a few minutes or hours, after visitors can explore the waters.
What you need to carry for a boat cruise safari experience include binoculars to see distant animals, a good camera for photography, warm clothes, and protective gear like life jackets are provided while on the boat cruise.
Boat safaris in Uganda are one of the most rewarding safari activities. You can combine boat cruise safaris with other activities such as game drives and wildlife viewing, chimpanzee trekking, mountain climbing or hikes, and gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, among others. What you need is to book at least two months in advance to secure a slot for the best experience.