How Fit Do I Have to Be for a Ugandan Safari?
A Ugandan safari is one of the most exciting adventures you can ever have! Imagine seeing lions, elephants, giraffes and gorillas in their natural homes. But before you pack your bags you might wonder: How fit do I have to be for a Ugandan safari? Don’t worry here’s everything you need to know.
Safaris Are for Everyone
The good news is that you don’t need to be super fit to enjoy a safari in Uganda. Many safari activities are designed to suit all types of people whether you are young or old, active or not very active. For example most game drives involve sitting in a comfortable safari vehicle while a guide drives you through the national parks. You only need to sit back, relax and enjoy the animals and beautiful landscapes.
Activities That Need More Energy
Some safari activities need a little more energy. For example:
Gorilla Trekking: Visiting mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga National Park requires walking through forests. The trek can take 1 to 6 hours depending on where the gorillas are. The paths can be steep, so you should be prepared to walk but you don’t need to be an athlete! If walking is hard for you, you can hire a porter to carry your bag or even help you along the way.
Chimpanzee Tracking: This involves walking through forests to find chimpanzees. It’s not as tough as gorilla trekking but it still needs some energy.
Hiking and Nature Walks: Some parks like Mount Elgon and Rwenzori Mountains offer hikes for adventure lovers. You can choose a short easy hike or a longer, more challenging one.
What If I’m Not Very Fit?
Even if you are not very fit you can still enjoy a Ugandan safari. Many lodges and parks offer relaxing options. You can take boat rides on rivers and lakes such as the Nile in Murchison Falls National Park or Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park. These trips allow you to see hippos, crocodiles, and birds without much effort.
How to Prepare for Your Safari
To make your safari more enjoyable, here are some tips:
1. Wear Comfortable Shoes: Good walking shoes will make it easier to walk, even if it’s just for short distances.
2. Stay Hydrated: Carry water to keep yourself refreshed, especially if it’s sunny.
3. Stretch a Little: If you’re doing gorilla or chimp trekking, practice walking a few days before your trip to feel more prepared.