Tourists have embraced the new excitement of cycling safaris, which were only recently introduced to the country. In a traditional safari, a 4×4 vehicle suitable for Ugandan roads is used to travel through national parks and other safari destinations.
The bike safari takes you through important cities like Masaka, Jinja, Kampala, Mbarara, Mbale, and other locations around the country, even though it is only available in a few national parks.
Since Ugandan roads are better than you might expect, but you still need to know how to handle dirt roads, some cycling experience is required to take part in a riding safari around the country.
The best way to fully experience Uganda’s towns and cities is on a bike safari. With its many interesting tourist attractions, such as local markets, Mandela National Stadium, Namirembe Cathedral, Rubaga Cathedral, shops, mosques, Kololo Airfield, Kasubi Tombs, and Uganda Museum, the Uganda bicycle safari is a great way to explore Kampala’s seven hills.
By visiting local communities, you can learn about the different cultural aspects of the people living in the country and understand how the locals go about their daily lives.
You can stop riding your bike and talk to the locals for a while. Sometimes, people will call you “Mzungu,” which means “white.” The children will keep telling you stories, and some of them may even sing and dance for you. If possible, bring some candy for them.
However, if you are cycling through a rough neighborhood, be cautious of your surroundings because pickpockets are common there.
Cycling Destinations in Uganda
Although there are many places in Uganda where bike safaris can be done, here are some of the best cycling spots.
Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park is a great place for a cycling safari in addition to game drives. There are many bike paths in the park that give visitors a unique experience and a closer look at the wildlife.
The bicycle routes in Lake Mburo, located in western Uganda, are well-marked, and a tour guide helps with the ride. As you get closer to nature, you will learn to appreciate what it has to offer.
Don’t forget to bring snacks, safety gear, and drinking water.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
The best place for gorilla trekking is Bwindi, which is home to half of the world’s gorilla population. Tourists can see mountain gorillas, vervet monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys while cycling through Bwindi.
They can also visit nearby villages to learn more about the local culture. The Buhoma sector is a popular cycling area.
One of the bike routes is the Village Trail, which passes through villages and provides an opportunity to learn more about the Bakiga and Batwa people. The same route takes two hours to walk and is also used for guided nature tours.
Kidepo Valley National Park
Kidepo Valley National Park is located in the northeastern Karamojong region, which is the least visited area in the country. A cycling safari around Karamoja allows visitors to get a closer look at the customs and traditions of the Karamojong people.
The cost of the safari depends on the number of days and the safari company you choose.
Highlights of a Karamoja bike safari include an adventure on less-traveled paths, wildlife and bird watching, cultural experiences, and beautiful mountain views.
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