On any safari in Uganda, the hardest part in preparations is to decide on whether to do a gorilla safari in Bwindi impenetrable national park, wildlife safari or rather a cultural safari in Uganda. Uganda being a country with diverse attractions that cannot be fully explored in only one trip, travelers, especially first time safari goers face the hardship of deciding on what to do.
However with the help of the many tour companies operating in Uganda, visitors have got some guidance. Now the hardest part that still lacks and challenges almost 90% of the trotters on Uganda safaris is knowing what to pack particularly on a self-drive safari in Uganda.
The inconvenience of a huge or an extra luggage is unbearable on any safari trip, comfort is a major factor to consider. For any safari adventure, trotters should be ready for any emergencies as well as have fun. It is very easy to pack minimally yet maximizing the storage capacity.
Here are the simple safari accessories that one would pack for a Uganda self-drive safari trip to serve in all situations on the trip.
Backpack. Most travelers, especially those that are to spend more than three days out opt for suitcases and trolley bags when setting out on a Uganda safari trip. But a backpack is the most obvious choice for any trip. Choose a high quality waterproof backpack with many compartments designed for the great outdoors. It should be comfortable and convenient.
Mini first aid kit. It is very common that most trotters on self-driven safaris in Uganda majorly focus on camping and clothing gears and then overlook the first aid kit while packing for a safari. Remember that simple accidents can always occur and it’s very easy to get a stomach upset or colds in a strange area. Walking through the thick jungles while trekking the gorillas in Uganda can easily cause simple cuts and bruises by the wild leaves, here a well-equipped first aid kit can work until when proper medication is attained.
Binoculars. Any safari checklist is incomplete without binoculars to admire the majestic and beautiful sights that nature presents. Binoculars help in viewing far objects and animals, have clearer sights in detail and also closely observe the impressive wildlife without any disturbance on either nature walks or game drives in Uganda.
Multi-tools. These have a variety of functions in one durable item. This reduces on the items to carry, instead of packing, screwdrivers, knives, can openers, scissors, tweezers, and maybe blades, simply have one multi-tool. It’s something that is very essential on any outdoor activity, be it an African safari or not.
Sunglasses. This are needed almost for every safari as some destinations have high temperatures and sun exposure. Shades protect travelers from the direct sun rays from hitting their eyes, something that can even cause sores on the eyes. Ensure that you get comfortable and perfectly fitting sunglasses as you might be wearing them most of the day time.
Insect repellant. Either not thinking about it, or assuming that they will find mosquito nets, most travelers tend to forget the insect repellants. It’s true that most hotels offer mosquito nets, but what about if you are to camp. Being a safari tour in Uganda, visitors are likely to spend most of their time in the wilderness. And on a self-driven safari, this means being in the wilderness on your own, so you need to be your own protector.
USB electronic charger. The fact that trotters carry several gadgets while on any trip in Uganda, they are likely to shut down at moments when you most need them as you will be spending long hours out. So in order not to limit your gadget usage, carry a portable charger with a power bank to help you out in case of a battery black out.
Water purifier. Even if bottled water is widely available in all national parks of Uganda, plus other simple shops and restaurants in the local communities, it is also important to carry a water purifier. The hiking trails in Bwindi, or a nature walk in Lake Mburo national park might leave you with only water from the springs, rivers and lakes as drinking sources. So to guarantee your safety, come along with a water purifier.
Travel journals. We all forget too soon the things we thought we could not forget and journaling helps travelers to note down the special moments they would not love to forget at any time in their lives. While in the African jungle, record down the way you see life in this strange land to help you tell better stories and blog posts when finally home. Always remember to opt for leather travel journals as they are in most cases water proof.
Camera. If not all, then most of the world trotters are photographers especially for wildlife. Photography is one things that surely catches your mind the moment you first step in Uganda. There is simply something about Uganda’s wonders that forces trotters to pull out their cameras to take selfies with the gorillas, pictures of the beautiful falls or landscapes. So a camera is one accessory all travelers should not leave behind in order to capture the striking moments on a safari tour in Uganda.
A travel checklist is always incomplete without any of the above accessories, ensure you have them on any Uganda trip to spice up your adventure with ease and comfort.
