East Africa is a chunk of paradise that’s hard to miss, especially if you’re planning a visit to the continent. Subdivided into 4 countries, including famous Uganda and Kenya, the region boasts of an immaculate scenery, unique experiences and a lavish wildlife. Whether or not you are already set to go to East Africa, the biggest question is, which is a better option for an African adventure: Uganda or Kenya?
UGANDA
The Pearl of Africa
Uganda is a landlocked country in the eastern side of Africa. It is bordered by Sudan in the north, Rwanda in the southwest, DRC in the west and Tanzania in the south. Compared to Kenya, Uganda is about half its size with only 241,038 square kilometers of area. 18% of the country is made up of rivers, lakes and wetlands including Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake and one of the major sources of the Nile, the world’s longest river.
Even with a miniature size, Uganda does not fall short of amazing surprises. Aside from its wealth of gorgeous rivers and lakes, it is also naturally endowed with beautiful grasslands and subsets of forests. No wonder why Sir Winston Churchill became enamored with this country when he visited in 1907 in which he called it “The Pearl of Africa”.
Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking
The main highlight to any Uganda trip is the visit to the primates, most particularly the mountain gorillas and the elusive chimpanzees. In fact, Uganda is arguably the best country for primate viewing.
When it comes to endangered mountain gorillas, the country holds more than half of the remaining great apes in the world. To be specific, the total population of mountain gorillas in the world is about 880 and Uganda gives sanctuary to about 480 of them.
Chimpanzees can also be easily found in the tropical forests but the best place to find them is in Kibale Forest National Park. Kibale Forest is home to 1,500 chimps as well as 12 other primate species (most diverse and densest primate population in East Africa.
Primate safaris can really be costly but people all over the world do not hesitate to splurge for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. In Uganda, permits to these primate safaris are about 50% cheaper compared to other countries that offer these tours.
Top Attractions
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: This mystical forest showcases a wealth of flowers and trees. Hence, it is known to be one of the most diverse and unique natural forests in the planet. It also houses a world-class bird population making it a premier birding destination. The star attraction, however, are the mountain gorillas. Approximately 400 mountain gorillas have been noted in this rainforest. That’s almost half its entire population!
- Queen Elizabeth National Park: Nestled against the back of the great Rwenzori Mountains, Queen Elizabeth National Park promises panoramic views that are made up of crater lakes, sprawling savannas and lush forests. It is Uganda’s second largest park that offers not only views of the Kazinga Channel but exciting boat safaris as well, which is why it is the most visited park in the country. The park is also infested with various wildlife including tree-climbing lions, chimpanzees and the largest hippo population in East Africa.
- Murchison Falls National Park: Noted to be Uganda’s largest park, Murchison is the only park in the country with the Big Five. It offers untamed wilderness and savannas that are solit through the middle by the River Nile, displaying large herds of animals. The park’s major feature is the magnificent Murchison Falls. Boat cruises are also offered here wherein you can actually cruise by the waterfall.
- Kibale Forest National Park: Kibale Forest National Park is popular for birding and for chimpanzee treks. Its lush forest hosts the most caried and concentrated primate population in East Africa which includes chimpanzees and golden monkeys.
- Kampala: Kampala is the capital of and largest city in Uganda. Its booming nightlife is known all over the world and is even called “The African City That Never Sleeps.”
Other activities
- White water rafting and kayaking in the River Nile
- Boat cruises
- Bungee jumping
- Visit to the Batwa people
- Golden monkey trekking
Uganda safari tours
- 6 Days Birding and Gorilla Experience Safari Uganda
- 5 Days Special Murchison Falls National Park
- 15 Days Classic Uganda Wildlife Tour With Primates
KENYA
The Real Africa
While Uganda’s focus is more on the primates and boat safaris, Kenya features a different medley of wonders. It is rich in sweeping plains gorgeously peppered with lone trees and an immense wildlife — all makes up for a strong National Geographic feels and a “real Africa” scenery in every corner. No wonder it is a wildlife enthusiast’s favorite playground.
Kenya is also home to one of Africa’s busiest airports, with a number of flights available from all over the world. Due to the competition, flight costs to Kenya (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi) are relatively cheaper compared to flight costs to Uganda and even other East African countries.
Wildebeest Migration
An annual event that’s resounding to almost all corners of the Earth, the Great wildebeest Migration is considered one of the Natural Wonders of the World. It is definitely in almost every traveler’s bucket list! Luckily, one of the best places to see this is Kenya. In fact, between late September to November, the migrant herds consisting of 2.5 million wildebeests, gazelles and zebras inhabit the Kenyan plains for grazing and water.
Around July to September every year, these herds can be found struggling their way across the Mara River, the large river that divides 2 spectacular parks (conveniently the 2 settings of this iconic animal movement): Masai Mara in Kenya and Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. This river crossing event is unlike anything else in the world. As migrant herds struggle to survive, predators like Nile crocodiles and hippos make their feat even more challenging and so, many experts refer to this event as the World Cup of Wildlife. Now, could you imagine having all those unfold before your very eyes?
Top Attractions
- Masai Mara National Reserve: Do you want to see the Lion King come to life? Here’s a fun fact: Its setting is inspired by the Serengeti ecosystem including Masai Mara! So if you want to see what you imagine Africa would be, plus meet the Lion King cast, this is where you need to be! It is located in Narok County, Kenya and it is connected to the equally famous Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. Aside from the awe-inspiring African scenery whose beauty is amplified by stunning sunsets and sunrises, this is also the only place where elephant numbers are increasing. The golden plains are teeming with wildlife including the Big Five and on the second half of every year, millions of migrant ungulates graze its plains as well.
- Amboseli National Park: A UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve, Amboseli is considered to be Africa’s best spot for viewing free-range elephants. It offers a picture-perfect scenery featuring the magical facade of Mount Kilimanjaro. Since getting off vehicles is not advised in this wildlife sanctuary, visitors are welcome to go to Observation Hill, a pyramid-shaped hill that provides stupendous views of the park’s surroundings.
- Lake Nakuru National Park: Lake Nakuru is a blue and pink lake that offers a unique sight to behold. It is an alkaline-rich lake that supports wildlife such as endangered white rhinos, black rhinos and also giraffes. It also has the biggest euphorbia forest in Africa. The most striking herds, however, are the flocks of flamingoes and water birds. With that and the rich avifauna, this park is considered an excellent birding destination.
- Nairobi: A bustling city which is Kenya’s capital and center for commerce , Nairobi has plenty to offer. Shopping malls, restaurants, historical sites, tourist spots and even a wildlife park in the middle of the city!
Other activities
- Beach hopping, snorkeling, diving
- Cultural visits to the Maasai tribe
- Hot air balloon safaris
- Skydiving
- Trekking in Mount Kenya
Kenya safari tours
UGANDA VS. KENYA
Although both are located in the same African region, the two countries offer different safari experiences. Since Uganda is landlocked, the scenery and activities mostly involves lakes and elevated plateaus with rim of mountains. Kenya, on the other hand, offers mostly low plains terrain and since it has a vast coastline bordering the Indian Ocean, beach activities are easily attainable. When comparing the two, there are also other things to factor in: price, accommodation types, available activities and transportation to name a few.
| Factors | UGANDA | KENYA |
| Area | Land: 197,100 sq km
Water: 43,938 sq km Total: 241,038 sq km |
Land: 569,140 sq km
Water: 11,227 sq km Total: 580,367 sq km |
| Coastline | 0 km | 536 km |
| Climate | Tropical with 2 wet and dry seasons; Semi-arid on the northeastern region | Tropical on the coast and arid on other areas of the country |
| Main Highlight | Endangered Mountain Gorilla Trekking | Great Wildebeest Migration |
| Wildlife | What you can find in Kenya, you can basically find in Uganda as well, What’s unique in Uganda is its primate population most especially its wealth of endangered Mountain Gorilla which cannot be found anywhere in Kenya | Internationally renowned for its wealth of large animals. Its sheer diversity and concentration of wildlife including the Big Five and the Great Migration herds make it a top wildlife safari destination |
| Pricing(considering park fees, international air fare and offred safari tours in general) | Somewhat the same with Kenya but it is usually slightly more expensive here than Kenya due to gorilla viewing permits (although Uganda’s pricing is the best value for money compared to other countries offering gorilla trekking). Kenya’s park fees are cheaper. | Relatively cheaper by a hairline although price will vary depending on your travel preferences and itinerary. Typical safari costs could go as low as $100 per person per day and as high as over $1000. |
| Birding | 1,030 confirmed bird species | About 1,000 bird species |
| Accommodation | Usally composed of lodges, high-end cottages, tree houses and tents | Accomodation in Kenya especially if you’re staying in parks and reserves are more expensive and luxurious. They can range from budget camping to hotel-style lodges to extravagant tented camps in the wild. |
| Best time to Visit | June to August or December to February | July to early November |
Bottomline
Either countries offer superb safari experiences and impeccable sceneries. However, if your main goal is to see many animals (especially the Big Five) as well as be more adventurous when it comes to game drives, Kenya is the place to go. Its roads in the game reserves and parks are more “adventurous” compared to the comfortable rides in Uganda, and your chances of spotting wildlife is higher in Kenya since game drives lasts longer. If you’re visiting right on time, you can catch the Great Migration herds, too.
If you’re looking for variety, Uganda stands out — from boat safaris to game drives to primate trekking in the forests, all within a relatively small area. Also, although the Masai Mara in Kenya exhibits an incredible number of animals across its vast savannah, the animal herds in Murchison Falls are generally larger.
Of course, you have to mind your travel preferences when choosing between Uganda versus Kenya. Also, don’t overlook the other factors discussed on the table above. If you think you can do safaris in both countries, that’s even better. Nonetheless, your African adventure will be in no doubt a memorable experience no matter what country you end up picking.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]