Why a do-it-yourself Safari is like Swimming with Crocodiles
If you want to save money on a Safari in Uganda– a self-planned Safari is not the Way to go.
Are you Considering a do-it-yourself Safari in Uganda? Here are some ways to avoid a Disaster while considering a do-it-yourself Safari.
Reality Check: The risks of planning your own Safari are high. You get a Gorilla permit in Rushaga – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and book a room in the Buhoma area. The two regions are five hours apart from each other. We know Uganda, and we, however, live and work here. We know Uganda, and it is our home.
For Drive times in between parks, you can use Google. They give you a map and all, even drive times, which are often based on Western Roads and not roads in Africa. The lodge pictures look great, but when you arrive, you are disappointed.
A Do-it-yourself Safari in Uganda might sound fantastic; the reality is that it is a recipe for Disaster in most cases. A do-it-yourself safari in Uganda can indeed present significant challenges and potential risks. While self-guided travel can be an adventurous and rewarding experience in specific destinations, a safari in Uganda typically requires specialized knowledge, experience, and local support due to the unique wildlife, terrain, and logistical considerations involved. Here are some reasons why a do-it-yourself safari in Uganda a recipe for Disaster can be:
A Do-it-yourself Safari in Uganda means complications and possible chaos on your Safari:
In the USA, most travelers do not use a Tour Operator. Things there are simple, and
one can book most hotels and activities online and, in most instances, have a wonderful time wherever one goes. The same applies to planning a European holiday, mostly if I speak a few languages. You can land in Amsterdam or Frankfurt, have a car booked, and off you go on European Dream Vacation – here is the reality – you cannot replicate that in most of Africa – it does not work.
You might think you have reserved a room, get a permit, and when you arrive here in Uganda, for example – you get a shrug of the shoulder and a sorry, but you do not have an African Safari vacation as you thought; you have an empty dream.
We recently dealt with a man who had thought he had purchased gorilla permits and chimpanzee permits – he had sent money to Uganda, then he could not find the man he had wired money to – his loss was3000 USD. He wanted to go on a do-it-yourself safari – at the start, before seeing one lion or gorilla – he was out 3000 USD.
Do-it-yourself Safari – a recipe for Disaster – More Reasons as to why
Yes, you can find a driver who will promise to take you anywhere, but you might wind up at Murchison Falls Park instead of Bwindi. Yes, you can email a lodging facility and get no answer, or you get a promise, but when you show up, there is no room for you. In Uganda, you must pay cash upfront when you book a place.
Do-it-yourself Safari – a recipe for Disaster – is like swimming with crocodiles. Try organizing a safari on your own; at the end of the day, you might tire your hair out in frustration. You are clueless about where a particular lodge is in the park.
A lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest does not mean it is the best location for you. You can book lodging in Buhoma and track gorillas in Nkuringo, meaning that you will be half the night on the road since it is about a 5-hour drive.
You will spend hours researching –, but until you go to a lodge, you will not know what the facility is like– TripAdvisor makes it more accessible. Still, even TripAdvisor can get it wrong since what was today one of the best lodges in Africa is on the Way down presently, or the reviews have been manipulated. We keep up to date. With what is going on in Uganda and Rwanda, and as a result, we can offer Hakuna Matata – Worry-Free Safaris.
Here is why you should use a reputable safari tour operator to assemble your Safari.
A do-it-yourself safari in Uganda can lead to complications, challenges, and potential chaos. Safaris in Uganda involve navigating diverse landscapes, encountering wildlife, and managing logistics, which can be overwhelming without proper knowledge and support. Here are some reasons why a do-it-yourself safari can result in complications and chaos:
- Lack of Local Knowledge: Bonafide local tour operators have in-depth knowledge of the local wildlife, primates, and birds. They know the parks and the quickest routes to parks. They know local languages, cultures, and customs.
- Navigation and Safety: Uganda’s national parks and reserves can be vast and challenging to navigate, especially for first-time visitors. They often have complex road networks, varying terrains, and limited signage. Professional driver-guides are familiar with these areas, ensuring efficient navigation and minimizing the risk of getting lost or encountering dangerous situations.
- Permits and Regulations: Safaris in Uganda often require permits for activities like gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, or park entry fees. Navigating the permit system and understanding the regulations can be complex. An accredited tour operator is well-versed in these processes and can secure the necessary permits in advance, ensuring a smooth experience. You may encounter difficulties or miss out on specific activities without proper planning.
- Logistics and Accommodations: Organizing transportation, accommodations, and other logistical details for a safari can be demanding, especially in remote areas with limited infrastructure. Professional operators have established networks and relationships with local providers, ensuring access to reliable transportation, suitable accommodations, and amenities. Attempting to manage these logistics independently can lead to complications, last-minute changes, or inadequate arrangements.
- Safety and Emergencies: Safaris involve venturing into the wilderness, where unexpected emergencies can occur, such as medical issues, vehicle breakdowns, or encounters with dangerous animals. Professional driver-guides are trained in first aid and emergency protocols, ensuring prompt and appropriate responses. They also have access to communication networks for assistance. Without this support, managing emergencies can be challenging and potentially chaotic.
While a do-it-yourself approach may seem adventurous, it’s essential to recognize the complexities and potential risks involved in a safari. Engaging with reputable safari operators or tour agencies can provide a well-organized, safe, and enjoyable experience, minimizing complications and chaos while maximizing your chances of witnessing Uganda’s remarkable wildlife responsibly and sustainably.
Do-it-yourself Safari – a recipe for Disaster
How we give you a Hakuna-Matata No-Worries Safari!!!
Experience: You are not the first client we have designed a safari for you in Uganda. We know all the steps to make your African Dream Safari in Uganda successful.
- Lodges: We know which lodges give you the best value for your money and meet the needs you have expressed, and we can tell you about each club in detail, where it is situated, and if it fits with the activities you would like to do in a park.
- Driver-Guide: We give you a driver guide, not just a driver who may have never been where you would like to go.
- Vehicles: Safe and well-maintained vehicles take another risk factor out of the equation.
- Current Knowledge: We present what is happening in Uganda that could affect your Safari, such as road repairs, a bridge out, and more.
- Local Advice: We will advise you if an activity or place may not be as excellent as described on the Internet.
- No-Worries |Safaris: Often, on a do-it-yourself African Trip, you spend more on the unexpected than enjoying your time on Safari.
- Inclusive S|afaris: Our designed Safari is all-inclusive with no unforeseen costs.
- Extra Touch: We provide you with that extra plus you would not get on a do-it-yourself trip.
Read more about a No-Worries safari with Kabiza Wilderness Safaris.
Do-it-yourself Safari – often a recipe for Disaster – We have rescued safaris for some desperate clients.
Africa is not Europe, Africa is not Asia, Africa is not North America, Africa is Africa – one kind of continent, and Uganda and Rwanda are authentic Africa – we will do our best to create a safari with you in mind, a memorable safari – inspiring long after you have left Africa.
If you are interested in experiencing a safari in Uganda, engaging with a reputable tour operator such as us is highly recommended. We will and can design a customized safari itinerary based on your preferences, ensure your safety, provide knowledgeable guides, and contribute to the local economy and conservation efforts.
Remember, the primary goal of a safari is to appreciate and preserve the natural beauty of Uganda’s wildlife and landscapes while respecting the local communities.
Do-it-yourself Safari – a recipe for Disaster – if you have any questions, please contact us.
