I’ve just completed a two-week tour of eastern and northeastern Uganda, which culminated in a safari in Kidepo Valley National Park and a visit to the soon-to-open NAMONI Lodge, in a Community Wildlife Area. I was intrigued to see the newly installed electric fence in the park — a 17 square kilometre enclosure set within Kidepo’s savannah landscape — ready for the arrival of the first rhinos here in 43 years*. I was in Kidepo just four days before the rhinos arrived. (Diary of a Muzungu should have stayed longer!)

Dr James Musinguzi, Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority, said on the day the first rhinos arrived in Kidepo:

“Today’s a milestone for conservation and a milestone for tourism. It marks the beginning of a new rhino story for Kidepo, and a proud day for Uganda.”

*(The last rhino in Kidepo was killed in Narus Valley in 1983, according to UWA).

You can read more about Uganda’s wider rhino recovery plans in my article on the future of Uganda’s wild rhinos.

Kidepo’s rhinos also change something fundamental. With their return, the park becomes Uganda’s first – and only – Big Five national park.

What does this mean? That visitors have a chance of seeing rhinos, as well as elephant, buffalo, lion and leopard, in one location. The “Big Five” – a term originally coined by colonial-era big game hunters to describe the five most difficult (and dangerous) animals to hunt on foot – has since become shorthand for Africa’s most sought-after wildlife sightings.

Introduction, not reintroduction

The first phase involved the translocation of two rhinos from Ziwa, part of a plan to introduce eight into Kidepo’s wilderness under Uganda’s National Rhino Conservation Strategy – the national framework for restoring rhino populations within their historical range. Dr Musinguzi explained:

“Rhinos last existed here 43 years ago, before they were hunted to extinction. It is important to note that this is an introduction, not a reintroduction. The subspecies that originally lived in Uganda is now functionally extinct. We are introducing southern white rhinos to Kidepo as a first step, with plans to bring in eastern black rhinos in the future.”

Why now?

The translocation and introduction programme was possible because of a successful breeding programme at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, in addition to the donation in 2025 of eight southern white rhinos from Munyawana Conservancy in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, by African Parks.

For years, Uganda’s rhino story has been about recovery in a sanctuary setting. In fact, many in Uganda wondered if the rhinos would ever leave the security of Ziwa. However, Ziwa is long past its carrying capacity, so translocation was well overdue. I can’t imagine how much money this whole exercise has cost, but Uganda’s tourism star is rising internationally, and with tourism already being the number one foreign revenue earner, the timing was right.

I explore this in more detail in my article on the future of Uganda’s wild rhinos.

This translocation also marks a shift in how Kidepo is positioned – not just as a remote wilderness, but as “Uganda’s only Big Five park.”

Security comes first

A frequent common question — including from a Diary of a Muzungu Facebook fan — is: how secure will the rhinos be? Rhinos remain highly sought by poachers for their horn, believed to have medicinal properties, even though it is simply keratin (the same as fingernails or hair).

On the ground, security is the starting point, not an afterthought. Before any wildlife is moved, Uganda Wildlife Authority ramps up patrols; security measures include drones and state of the art tech, perimeter fencing, patrol systems and dedicated new ranger facilities. Systems are put in place to monitor wildlife around the clock.

A national effort

This translocation has been led by Ugandans, with support from partners who helped establish a secure rhino sanctuary —fencing, access roads, firebreaks, ranger facilities, water infrastructure, monitoring systems, and the logistical planning necessary for long-term protection.

The project is funded by Ugandan tourism revenue. A long list of partners include Wild Landscapes East Africa, Uganda Conservation Foundation, Global Conservation and the Northern Rangelands Trust.

I like how the return of rhinos is described as a cultural homecoming too. As Dr Eric Enyel, Chief Warden of Kidepo Valley National Park, put it: “After 43 years rhino are returning to Kidepo. I come from Lira, not far away, where the rhino is our town’s totem. Rhino will set foot on Karamoja’s soil once again.” (Source: UCF LinkedIn page)

This translocation is not without controversy

Not all conservationists agree that southern white rhinos should be introduced to Kidepo. It is not their native habitat and some argue there are more pressing priorities.

Ugandan rhino conservationist David Bakeine writes: “There’s no justification whatsoever as to why Uganda should be taking Southern White Rhinos to Kidepo when nature has gifted Uganda with having our indigenous species. Eastern black rhino (Diceros bicornis michaeli) lived in East Madi (east of the river Nile) and Northern White Rhino lived in West Madi (west of the Nile).

There are two subspecies of white rhino: Southern white rhinos (Ceratotherium simum simum) and Northern white rhinos (Ceratotherium simum cottoni). Sudan, the last male northern white rhino, died in 2018, essentially consigning this subspecies to extinction. He is survived by two females who live at Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya.

Another conservationist takes a broader view: “Species introduction, reintroduction, and translocation help manage conservation issues.” Keystone species like rhinos – and elephants – are ‘ecosystem engineers’ meaning their grazing physically reshapes habitats. Over time their presence will trigger a ripple effect influencing vegetation, prey animals and predators. The full impact will take years to play out but after four decades without rhinos — the last having been poached in 1983 — Kidepo’s ecosystem may gradually begin to rebalance.

For a timeline of the different rhino species in Uganda, and information about Bakeine’s action4rhinos NGO, read

A personal reflection

It’s fantastic to watch organisations I know so well partnering on this project. I first came to Uganda as a volunteer with the Uganda Conservation Foundation, fundraising to help build the capacity of Uganda Wildlife Authority — supporting the construction of ranger accommodation, and helping equip and train teams working in remote corners of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Back then, our key “beneficiaries” were elephants and hippos!

It’s inspiring to see that expertise now being applied to another iconic species, in an even more remote part of Uganda. Congratulations to everyone involved. I can’t wait to see the rhinos for myself on my next trip to Kidepo!

Beyond wildlife

Another highlight of my trip to the northeast was visiting Kara-Tunga’s new NAMONI Lodge — a strong example of community-based tourism. Conservation here is not just about wildlife. People, long-term livelihoods, and partnerships, such as the one with Uganda Wildlife Authority are fundamental to the whole setup. This is my kind of place!

NAMONI is the first community-rooted lodge in Kidepo, designed so tourism revenue directly supports local livelihoods and conservation in one of Uganda’s most remote ecosystems.

Where to see rhinos in Uganda

At the time of publishing this post, Uganda’s rhino population stands at 61 individuals. They can now be seen in four areas of Uganda:

• Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, central Uganda. Read my blog Tracking rhinos on foot at Ziwa.
• Ajai Wildlife Reserve, northern Uganda. Read Diary of a Muzungu’s update about the Ajai rhinos.
• Kidepo Valley National Park, northeastern Uganda
• Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, Entebbe, central Uganda

This blog posts details Uganda Wildlife Authority’s conservation fees and wildlife experiences across the country.

Kidepo is changing — and fast

Rhinos are back — and this changes Uganda’s tourism map. The possibility of seeing the Big Five in Kidepo adds a new dimension to an already extraordinary park. I’ll be back to see the rhinos for myself very soon!

Want to travel to Kidepo to see the rhinos?

My name is Charlotte Beauvoisin, author of Diary of Muzungu and host of the East Africa Travel Podcast. Planning a trip to see Uganda’s rhinos? Send me a message and I’ll introduce you to one of the registered companies I travel with.

The post Kidepo’s rhinos make it Uganda’s first – and only – “Big Five” national park appeared first on Diary of a Muzungu.

I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve recommended this masterpiece of a show: everyone must experience this fantastic night out!

Tick-tick-tick goes the bamboo on the calabash.

Sh-sh-sh-shake the seeds in the gourd.

Thump-thump-thump thuds the stick on the taut hide of the drum.

The early evening air in the Ndere Centre’s ampitheatre fills with the rich, bass sound of the harp-like adungu.

Men beat the surface of the drum hard with the flat of their hands. The drumming rises to a crescendo as the women dancers elegantly descend the stairs into the open air Amphitheatre, all brilliant smiles and waving arms.

And then it starts!

A group of twelve women shake their hips, moving to a joyful, seductive rhythm. They throw back their heads as they circle the floor to the sound of the dexterous plucking of the adungu. To one side of the stage, five men play a giant wooden xylophone.

Ten drummers and acrobats in bark cloth tunics fly onto the stage, doing press ups and mock fighting and doing press-ups. They SLAP the sides of the drum with sticks. With big grins on their faces, the acrobats race towards the audience, arms flailing and legs akimbo, kicking left and right. Round and round they go. The energy of the Maggunju, the Royal welcome dance of the Baganda, holds the audience captive, ready for our musical and cultural tour of Uganda.

As our host – and cultural ambassador – Stephen Rwangyezi walks down through the audience to welcome us, a little white boy runs up to him and starts playing Stephen’s drum.

“Forget your problems – we are going to take you to the different parts of the country.” Stephen tells us. “Now WE are the donors” – he tells the predominantly Muzungu audience – as we have something in abundance to offer YOU!”

In Western Uganda, it’s all about the cows

We listen to the music played to relax the cows. “After walking 20 kilometres each way to drink water, wouldn’t you be stressed?” He asks. Even the okujumeera – the sound of cow mowing is developed into the singing while the thudding of their hooves – is reflected in the dance steps of Western Uganda.

Through his anecdotes, Stephen reminds us of the continent’s enormous contribution to global culture. He illustrates how the traditional sounds of Africa can be heard in modern American rap music.

“Who is President Obama?” He asks, but “the Original Black African Managing America.”

Click to read “Interview with a rebel” my conversation with Dr Rwangyezi – one of the most illuminating conversations I have ever had!

We pass through Bunyoro and Toro “where love was first invented.”

We hear a haunting song from Ankole and then we move on to the upbeat sound of the West Nile and the adungu.

The Amphitheatre is filled with a frenetic whirl of colour and a flash of white teeth. KABINARIFIC! The women dancers whip up a storm on the dance floor. Fast and furious, how do the men play those drums so speedily? (I can’t even tap my fingers that fast).

We can’t pass through West Nile without a historical anecdote, of which there are many interweaved throughout the evening. Of Idi Amin, Stephen says “when he was in the country, people were scared. When he was out of the country, people were embarrassed.” He recounts how, time and again, cultural and language blunders rolled out of the then president’s mouth.

Later in the show, children are invited onto the open stage. 27 kids of all ages listen attentively to Stephen’s every word. It’s an unexpected highlight of the evening to see him invite each child to do their turn in the circle. I find it extraordinary to think that not so long ago this dancing was banned. (Even now colonial legislation still exists in Uganda that in theory makes traditional dancing illegal).

As the show draws to an end I recognise the unmistakable whistles of the music that made me first fall in love with Uganda.

The male dancers wear bright green beads around their waists over imitation (I hope) leopard skin tunics. Long colourful beads drape over their shoulders, criss-crossing at the waist. Their headdresses have white tuft-like tails. The women wear thin strings of beads around their foreheads.

“If you dance together you can never be at war.”

The dancers genuinely seem to love what they do. There’s a great camaraderie and joking around between the dancers and Stephen. Their passion and playfulness is contagious.

How many shows are there in Uganda that you would rush to see more than three times?

“When people in our culture dance, you don’t let them suffer alone – you join in!” So just remember, next time you feel stressed, do as Stephen suggests: “shake your seating facilities.”

Diary of a Muzungu highly recommends the Ndere show!

Watching the Ndere Troupe perform takes me back to my first night out in Kampala, courtesy of my then employer Voluntary Service Overseas. The show is a fantastic introduction to Uganda! It’s a celebration of Africa and everyone should see it. I remember sitting on the edge of my seat thinking: “I’m finally here. I’m in Africa!“

The colour, the energy, the smiles and the humour, the stories… the whole experience was everything I’d imagined Africa to be and more.

How to reserve tickets for the Ndere Show

This article was originally commissioned by the Empazi Magazine, the brainchild of Ugandan creative Arnie Petit.

Have you visited Kampala’s Ndere Center yet? What was your favourite part of the show?

The post Shake your kabina! Ndere Centre’s musical, dancing tour of Uganda [UPDATED] appeared first on Diary of a Muzungu.

The East Africa Travel Podcast is my biggest project in a long time. We won an award for season 1! Tune in for the sounds of nature, inspiring conversations with award-winning travel writers and conservationists (and strictly positive vibes). Read what people are saying about the East Africa Travel Podcast. Season 2 is loading in April 2026.

Coming to Uganda to work, volunteer or simply live?

Read Uganda for beginners – a guide for new expats and Is Uganda safe? Yes it is (expats share their experiences about life in Uganda).

Looking for a tour operator in Uganda? Advice on tourist visas?

If you’re looking for travel inspiration, you’re in the right place! I’ve been to almost every corner of Uganda, but sometimes you just want some basic travel advice:

• Uganda tourist visas – apply online before you fly! UPDATED OCTOBER 2025
• Flying into Uganda? Latest health rules at Entebbe International Airport UPDATED OCTOBER 2025
• Guide to the East Africa Tourist Visa (Uganda Rwanda Kenya) UPDATED OCTOBER 2025
• Is Kenya really “visa free”? How to apply for the eTA (the Electronic Travel Authorisation that replaced Kenya’s tourist visa) UPDATED OCTOBER 2025
• Tips on travelling safely in Uganda: tour operators suspended (and my advice) PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 2025
• The Travel Directory lists registered tour operators, accommodation and things to do in Uganda
• I am an Expert Reviewer on SafariBookings, the largest online marketplace for African safari tours.

Going on safari?

• Low season discounts on gorilla tracking permits plus an update on the Uganda Wildlife Authority fees (which will be effective from July 2026). PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 2026
• Guide to Uganda Wildlife Authority’s fees (2024 – 2026). is the complete price list or ‘conservation tariff’ for all National Parks, Wildlife Reserves, gorilla permits, game drives, mountain climbing and more. The new tariff will start in July 2026.
• Ultimate Guide to Tracking Mountain Gorillas a multi-page guide
• Uganda’s National Parks a page on each of the country’s ten National Parks

I regularly travel around Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania. I have visited – and researched – a long list of places that don’t always make it onto Diary of a Muzungu, since I also write for guidebooks, lodges, tourism boards and tour operators. If you don’t find the info you need here, feel free to contact me directly.

Who is Diary of a Muzungu?

Read a bit About me, some Interviews and my Portfolio of writing for other publications. Do get in touch!

Random Uganda that will make you smile

Diary of a Muzungu comprises 100s of personal stories, travel reviews, wildlife encounters (and dating disasters!) Here are a few favourites.

• What makes the Pearl of Africa so special? Read the ever-popular 50 reasons why I love Uganda (with over 120,000 page views)
• Pant hoots and knuckle spins. Chimp tracking in Kibale Forest on the doorstep of my forest home
• Are Muzungus all rich? Apparently!
• Ants in my pants insects EEEEH!
• How to feed a baby elephant … cute! but the truth is shocking
• Were Toto right about Africa? remember that song?
• My local name is Nagawa but what does it mean? And how did I get this charming name? Read Bwindi – eye to eye with my totem
• Downtown dreadlocks – the muzungu’s blind date
• Grateful every day or “how nature saved me” is dedicated to my home at Sunbird Hill on the edge of Kibale Forest. Life at Sunbird Hill inspired me to launch the podcast (season 2 loading…)
• Do numbers mean anything? Observations from Karamoja an eye-opening few days in northeastern Uganda.

Want the latest news in your inbox? Then sign up to Diary of a Muzungu’s newsletter!

The post New to Diary of a Muzungu? Start here appeared first on Diary of a Muzungu.

Diary of a Muzungu’s summary of key changes

The headline gorilla permit remains unchanged at USD 800, which may surprise some people. The most notable increases are: gorilla habituation, chimpanzee habituation, Kyambura Gorge chimp tracking and experiential lion tracking. The most interesting development is the expansion of specialist, conservation-led tourism experiences, particularly golden cat tracking and Ajai rhino tracking.

Looking across the chimpanzee experiences, Kibale chimp tracking sees a modest increase for foreign non-residents. Chimpanzee habituation in Kibale rises more noticeably. The most significant shift is in Kyambura Gorge, where foreign non-resident rates double from USD 100 to USD 200 and foreign resident rates rise sharply from USD 80 to USD 150.

In February 2026 UWA confirmed that the revised rates will take effect from 1 January 2027 (except the discounted permit rates which are effective immediately). I will share a link to the new tariff document once released by UWA.

NOTE: this older blog post details all Uganda Wildlife Authority fees until June 2026.

UWA has introduced discounted low season gorilla and chimpanzee permits for April, May and November (effective immediately). They are as follows:

Gorilla tracking
Foreign Non-Residents: USD 600 (read “international tourists”)
Foreign Residents: USD 500 (read “expatriates”)

Chimpanzee tracking
Foreign Non-Residents: USD 200
Foreign Residents: USD 150

These discounted permit rates take immediate effect and are designed to encourage travel during quieter months.

Important note: low season permits cannot be rescheduled so take care when confirming your travel dates before booking permits.

Revised conservation fees from 1 January 2027

Dr James Musinguzi, Executive Director of UWA, has confirmed that the revised conservation fees will take effect on 1 January 2027 (correcting an earlier communicated implementation date). The most relevant rates are:

Gorilla tracking (Bwindi and Mgahinga)

Foreign Non-Residents: USD 800 (no change)
Foreign Residents: USD 700 (no change)
East Africans: UGX 300,000 (no change)
Rest of Africa: USD 500 (no change)

Gorilla habituation experience (Bwindi)

Foreign Non-Residents: USD 1,800 (an increase of USD 300)
Foreign Residents: USD 1,600 (an increase of USD 600).
East Africans: UGX 750,000
Rest of Africa: USD 1,000

Chimpanzee tracking (Kibale National Park)

Foreign Non-Residents: USD 300 (an increase of USD 50)
Foreign Residents: USD 200 (no change)
Rest of Africa: USD 100
East Africans: UGX 180,000 (no change)

Chimpanzee habituation (Kibale National Park)

Foreign Non-Residents: USD 400 (an increase of USD 100)
Foreign Residents: USD 300 (an increase of USD 50)
East Africans: UGX 250,000
Rest of Africa: USD 250

Chimpanzee tracking (Kyambura Gorge)

Foreign Non-Residents: USD 200 (an increase of USD 100)
Foreign Residents: USD 150 (an increase of $70)
East Africans: UGX 50,000
Rest of Africa: USD 100

Golden cat tracking – a new activity in Kibale National Park

UWA’s update also highlights new, specialist wildlife experiences within Uganda’s protected areas including golden cat tracking in Kibale National Park and rhino tracking in Ajai Wildlife Reserve.

Golden cat tracking is a brand new, research-based experience. The muzungu needs to try this one! I once saw a golden cat crossing the road at dusk as we drove through Kibale Forest. It was just a dark smudge in the distance but the golden cat has a distinct body shape. I’ve also recorded a golden cat footprint near my home on the boundary of Kibale National Park at Sunbird Hill.

Golden cat tracking in Kibale National Park (5-day experience)

Foreign Non-Residents: USD 350
Foreign Residents: USD 350
East Africans: UGX 350,000
Rest of Africa: USD 350

Experiential lion tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park

This has become a popular activity courtesy of UWA and the Uganda Carnivore Programme.

Foreign Non-Residents: USD 500 (an increase of USD 300)
Foreign Residents: USD 300
East Africans: UGX 250,000
Rest of Africa: USD 300

Rhino tracking (Ajai Wildlife Reserve)

This is a great development for rhino conservation, local communities around Ajai and for tourism. In late 2025, the first white rhinos were translocated from Ziwa Sanctuary to Ajai, a historic milestone for recovery of Ajai. It’s high on my must-visit list.

Foreign Non-Residents: USD 20 (adults); USD 5 (children)
Foreign Residents: USD 15 (adults); USD 5 (children)
East Africans: UGX 10,000 (adults); UGX 2,500 (children)
Rest of Africa: USD 10 (adults); USD 3 (children)

The post Low season gorilla discounts + golden cat tracking – changes to UWA’s tariff appeared first on Diary of a Muzungu.

Aerial view of Nakapelimoru, northeastern Uganda. Kara-Tunga Tour of Karamoja, Uganda. CREDIT Eric Mukalazi

How the project started

I was thrilled when the Adventure Tourism Uganda team invited me to edit the new magazine. It gave me the opportunity to check in with tourism colleagues across the country and research some new and trending activities and destinations.

It’s not the first time an image alone has compelled me to visit somewhere new. The striking aerial shot of cyclists taking part in the annual Tour of Karamoja, weaving their way through Nakapelimoru “East Africa’s largest traditional village” played on my mind for weeks. Where exactly was it? Why had I not been there? (And when could I go?)

I’ve since travelled back to Karamoja – and the experience was far more powerful than a photograph could ever suggest. Read My observations from Karamoja here. Karamoja is just one of the emerging adventure destinations featured in this edition of the Adventure Tourism Uganda Magazine.

What do we mean by adventure? And where do I go for it?

With one of the world’s best climates – and incredible scenery at every turn – Uganda is a brilliant place for all kinds of adventures! You may associate the country with safaris, gorillas and chimps, hiking or white water rafting… all mind-blowing adventures. Adding to this (already enviable) list of attractions, the Adventure Tourism Uganda consortium have been helping develop more new activities in new places — giving reasons to stay longer, reasons to slow down – and reasons to revisit?

Ready to read the Adventure Tourism Uganda magazine right away? Click here.

Uganda’s adventure story

From the high peaks of Mount Elgon (in eastern Uganda) and the Rwenzoris (to the west) to the white-crested rapids of the River Nile, and the River Birara in the south west, Uganda’s adventure story continues to gain momentum. Today, adventure tourism in Uganda is a thriving sub-sector with its own identity.

Adventure is one of the fastest-growing ways to travel. Visitors from Europe are choosing more walking and cycling trips — often paired with authentic, locally led experiences. (Isn’t it great to get out of the vehicle?) Weekends away are changing too, with more Ugandans escaping Kampala to climb mountains, run marathons and spend evenings around the campfire.

Behind these choices are bigger shifts: travellers want active holidays that matter, combining physical challenges with meaning, and adventure with positive impact.

Inside edition two of the Adventure Tourism Uganda magazine

• Journeys on foot and bike: cycling safaris, the Mosopisiek Trail (Kapchorwa / Elgon), bikepacking routes, and Karamoja’s four unknown peaks (northeastern Uganda).
• People at the heart of adventure: voices from guides, Ugandan adventure photographers, and “Our people” testimonies featuring young people shaping tourism.
• Cultural encounters: the Ik Cultural Heritage Trail and the Karamoja Cultural Festival (northeastern Uganda).
• On the water: rafting expeditions and waterfall hikes in Rukungiri (western Uganda) with SANA gorilla rafting.
• Sports and community: Sports Tourism Ambassador Rob Walker on Uganda’s rise as a running hub. (You may remember Rob was one of my first guests on the East Africa Travel Podcast.)
• Alternative adventures: family travel and stories of women-led safaris with the Travelling Sisterhood (Matoke Tours).
• Industry acclaim for both the Adventure Tourism Uganda project and the East Africa Travel Podcast by Diary of a Muzungu at the ATTA® awards at Experience Africa in London.
• Planning tools: an adventure calendar (of runs, marathons and biking competitions) and a map to help you plan your next adventures!

Did you know? Market intelligence shows that adventure travellers from Europe, for example, are seeking nature, challenge, off-the-beaten-path experiences, culture, and sustainability. European travellers are among the world’s most environmentally conscious – seeking experiences that balance thrill with purpose. These trends highlight clear opportunities for Uganda’s adventure tourism industry. Uganda matches all these expectations.

Ready to explore Uganda adventurously?

Are you ready to lace up your running shoes, grab a paddle, or hop on a bike? Read the Adventure Tourism Uganda magazine to explore adventure tourism activities across Uganda. And as always, if you have a question or travel enquiry, feel free to contact the Muzungu.

Adventurously yours… Charlotte AKA Nagawa, Diary of a Muzungu.

The post Only the adventurous need apply! appeared first on Diary of a Muzungu.

UPDATE February 2026: the new tariff will start in July 2026. The key changes are documented in this blog post.

UWA’s 2024-2026 price list covers National Park and Wildlife Reserve entry fees, gorilla / chimpanzee / golden monkey tracking permits, primate habituation, mountain and volcano hiking, mountain biking and boat rides on the River Nile, the Kazinga Channel and Lake Mburo – among many other activities.

A few things that the muzungu is looking forward to include:

• Hiring a boat in Toro Semliki wildlife reserve to view the Shoebill on Lake Albert.
• Kidepo Lonyilli summit hike
• Kapkwai sector of Murchison Falls National Park. (Did you know you can get free entry to Kapkwai?)
• Mount Elgon mountain biking. That must be awesome!
• Bushiyi trail extension, the shortest trail to Wagagai, the highest peak on Mount Elgon.
• Chimpanzee tracking at Ngogo (Kibale National Park) a few hundred metres from my home at Sunbird Hill
• Golden monkey habituation in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Golden monkeys are very pretty creatures!

Uganda park entry fees – Murchison Falls slight increase

A note post-pandemic: You hardly need reminding how hard travel – and thus conservation revenue – was hit during the pandemic. It’s therefore no surprise that the authorities are doing everything they can to raise money. Some might argue that we need discounts to encourage people to travel. However, given conservation’s dire finances during lockdown, I say let’s be grateful how few price increases there are. Now let’s book that safari!

Since 2022, visitors to Murchison Falls National Park have paid a little more than other protected areas. Stephen Masaba of Uganda Wildlife Authority explained to Diary of a Muzungu:

For Murchison Falls, we observed high speeding and increased road kills (especially of baboons) but have also noted littering and high levels of plastic waste. Of the number of visitors to Murchison, over 10% of these people are just in transit (crossing through the park). The slight fee increase should help curb some of these effects.

Director, Tourism and Business Development, Uganda Wildlife Authority

Although they don’t (yet) have the facilities that more established National Parks do, now might be a time to explore some of Uganda’s less visited protected areas such as Pian Upe and Katonga Wildlife Reserves.

For full details on activities not listed in the summary (game drives, nature walks, birdwatching and more) download Uganda Wildlife Authority’s full tariff for July 2024 to June 2026 here.

Planning a Uganda safari?

My name is Charlotte Beauvoisin, author of Diary of Muzungu and host of the East Africa Travel Podcast. Looking for advice on planning a trip to Uganda? Send me a message and I’ll introduce you to one of the registered companies I travel with.

The post Guide to Uganda Wildlife Authority’s fees for 2024 to 2026 [UPDATED] appeared first on Diary of a Muzungu.

Uganda’s last native rhinos were seen in 1982, and extinction in the wild was declared in 1983. On World Rhino Day, celebrated every 22 September, there were encouraging signs that rhino conservation in Uganda is moving in a bold new direction. Let’s look at why and how.

This article has been updated to reflect exciting recent developments in Uganda’s rhino conservation efforts.

Historic milestone in West Nile as the first white rhinos in four decades are reintroduced to Ajai Wildlife Reserve

UPDATE: January 2026 marked the official reopening of Ajai Wildlife Reserve in West Nile, with the phased translocation of white rhinos after more than four decades absence. Seeing rhinos back in this landscape is significant because it restores a species to an area where it once belonged. The rhinos’ return – under heavy security – marks an important step in rebuilding the Ajai conservation area. The Ajai reintroduction forms part of Uganda’s wider strategy to restore rhinos beyond Ziwa and rebuild a viable national population. In time, additional species, including giraffes, are expected to be reintroduced to Ajai too.

Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), James Musinguzi, announced plans to construct a monument honouring King Ajai and to create the “Roosevelt Rhino Track” in recognition of the late US President Theodore Roosevelt, with the aim of attracting visitors from the United States. Why Roosevelt? In 1909–10 Roosevelt led what became known as the Smithsonian–Roosevelt African Expedition, a scientific and hunting trip that collected over 11,000 animal and plant specimens, including rhinos, across East Africa. The expedition created scientific records that are now useful for species restoration work. Born in a very different era, his African safari involved big-game hunting, but Roosevelt also became one of the early 20th-century leaders in wilderness conservation (in the U.S.).

Celebrating rhino conservation at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Uganda

Baby rhinos and big dreams at Ziwa

World Rhino Day 2025 at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch) in Nakasongola, central Uganda was celebrated by naming 17 baby southern white rhinos, a major milestone in rhino conservation. Congratulations to UWA and the many others involved including Rhino Fund Uganda (now closed), “who must be appreciated” said UWA Executive Director James Musinguzi.

I was at Ziwa to record a podcast episode. Dozens of us tracked the rhinos that morning. What is it like to track rhinos on foot? Read my article. For many, World Rhino Day marked their first ever wild rhino sighting. I loved hearing the rhino snorts and rumbles as the cameras clicked!

Future plans are equally ambitious, starting with the translocation of 20 rhinos from Ziwa to Ajai Wildlife Reserve; the import of 100 rhinos to Kidepo (working with Northern Rangelands Trust) and rhino-themed plans for Murchison Falls too in time (no details as yet). There’s even talk of bringing back eastern black rhinos as part of Uganda’s 10-year rhino conservation strategy.

Thanks to all the event sponsors and namers, some of whom contributed $10,000 each to name their rhino baby: names included Amuka (the Lango name for rhino), Ubuntu, Akili, Jane Goodall, Nakadanya and AUTO. I noted an interesting choice of name by Lisa Chesney the British High Commissioner: Pearl. It was of course the British Prime Minister Winston Churchill who in his book 1908 book “My African Journey” described Uganda as “the Pearl of Africa” a phrase embraced by the tourism community and immortalised in the country’s destination brand tagline to this day.

Did you know you too can support the initiative with a donation of 100,000 UGX and receive a thank you certificate in return? The Uganda Wildlife Authority aims to fundraise USD 11 million (UGX 40 billion) for its Name (or Name and Save) a Rhino campaign. Proceeds will fund translocations as well as habitat management and anti-poaching. Click here to learn How to Name A Rhino.

Preparing for Ajai Wildlife Reserve

On the road back to one of their historical homes

It’s 42 years since rhinos roamed freely in the wild in Uganda.

The next big step is a landmark conservation effort to restore rhinos to Ajai Wildlife Reserve, a 158 km² protected area in West Nile, approximately 55km east of Arua in northwestern Uganda. In 1954, there were an estimated 300 northern white rhinos in Ajai, and in 1962 Ajai was designated as the white rhino sanctuary, but poaching quickly decimated their population.

Today, the reserve is a patchwork of papyrus swamps, grassy floodplains and savanna woodland. On a good day you might spot leopard, Uganda kob, sitatunga, hippo, hartebeest, bushbuck or waterbuck. Black-and-white colobus monkeys and baboons are regularly seen too according to the Bradt Guide and Uganda Wildlife Authority. (The muzungu hasn’t visit Ajai – yet!)

The Rhino Translocation Team is a cross-section of technical experts – vets, rangers, logistics and transport specialists, and security personnel – all tasked with ensuring the safe and successful move of rhinos from Ziwa to Ajai. Seven UWA staff bring valuable experience from Kenya, where they recently took part in rhino captures and translocations alongside colleagues at Lake Nakuru, Lewa and Segera conservancies.

The return of rhinos to Ajai is written into the National Development Plan IV and UWA’s conservation strategy. From local leaders in West Nile to clan elders and the President himself, support is strong. The forecast translocation date is December 2025 and Diary of a Muzungu wishes the team every success. Captain Roy (on whose land Ziwa’s rhinos have grazed for two decades) warned UWA to protect the rhinos (choosing to reference translocations in Kenya in which rhinos have died). Roy must wonder what the future holds for Ziwa.

Rhinos in Uganda: key milestones

In April and May 1956, Mr. John Seago caught and exported a pair of young male and female Northern White Rhinos to the American Zoological Society of Washington, (Washington Zoo). Earlier in 1955, Mr. John Seago had exported two Northern White Rhinos to Regents Park for the Zoological Society of London.

Thank you David Bakeine for sharing an extract from some of his publications with Diary of a Muzungu readers.

• 1955 – Two northern white rhinos exported to the Zoological Society of London, UK.
• 1956 – Pair of northern white rhinos exported to the American Zoological Society of Washington (Washington Zoo), USA.
• 1982 – Last Northern White Rhino in Uganda dies (Murchison Falls)
• 1983 – Last Eastern Black Rhino in Uganda seen (Kidepo Valley)
• 1983 – Both rhino species declared extinct in the wild in Uganda
• 1997 – The NGO Rhino Fund Uganda set up to repopulate Uganda with wild rhinos.
• 2001 – Two rhinos arrive at Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), Entebbe, but do not breed
• 2004 – Construction of the perimeter fence begins at agreed sanctuary site of Ziwa
• 2005 – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary established with six animals. First rhinos arrive from
• Kenya
• 2006 – More rhinos repatriated by Disney’s Animal Kingdom (USA). (Disney fully funded the repatriation exercise; they had taken the rhinos from Uganda in 1956).
• 2021 – UWA took over security of Ziwa Rhino sanctuary following a lengthy dispute between Rhino Fund Uganda, the NGO managing the facility, and Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranches, the 16,000 acre site owners. The sanctuary is now managed by UWA. Rhino Fund Uganda is no longer active in the country.
• 2025 – Uganda Wildlife Authority launched a campaign to raise US$11 million to translocate 20 rhinos from Ziwa to Ajai Wildlife Reserve. On World Rhino Day 2025, the conservation community joined the local community and high-level representatives from diplomatic missions, as well as businesses who sponsored rhinos, at what was billed “the first rhino naming ceremony.” Ziwa has a thriving community of 48 rhinos.

More rhino-themed plans

Science, zoos and the next chapter

On World Rhino Day 2022 at UWEC Entebbe, lifelong rhino conservationist David Bakeine shared ideas for securing the future of wild northern white and eastern black rhinos – Uganda’s original indigenous species – through his NGO @action4rhinos.

Bakeine proposed that Uganda import Eastern Black Rhinos to “restore ecological balance and boost tourism.” I’m not generally a fan of zoos, but when you learn that surrogate mothers and rhino embryos stored in overseas enclosures could help recover the two species, you can’t help but feel intrigued about the future of rhinos in Uganda.

Rhinos make their debut on the East Africa Travel Podcast

What’s next for rhinos and Diary of a Muzungu?

My reason for attending World Rhino Day at Ziwa was to record a new episode for season 2 of the podcast, currently in production. Uganda’s rhinos first got a mention on the podcast courtesy of Rob Walker, the country’s official sports tourism ambassador. Listen to his hilarious stories about “tickling a rhino behind the ears” on one of his recent trips to Uganda!

The post What’s the future for Uganda’s wild rhinos? [UPDATED FROM AJAI] appeared first on Diary of a Muzungu.

2025 was a busy year for Diary of a Muzungu. If you missed a few posts (or many!) here’s a short guide to the stories that shaped the year – grouped by theme.

Planning travel to Uganda & East Africa

Practical guidance – and personal stories – researched from the ground up and reviewed regularly by yours truly, Charlotte Beauvoisin “a real live human being.”

• Ultimate Guide to Mountain Gorilla Tracking
• Uganda tourist visas – what you need to know
• Flying into Uganda? Latest health rules at Entebbe International Airport
• Tips on travelling safely in Uganda (and my advice on suspended tour operators)
• Uganda travel advice I ignored
• Kampala and Nairobi by bus: the muzungu’s tips
  
  

Mountain gorillas, rhino conservation – and elephant dung!

Experiences from the field (or jungle!) Plus the people working behind the scenes to make it all happen.

• From snorting to snoozing – tracking rhinos on foot at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
  
• Falling in love with Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – and gorillas – all over again!
  
• What is the future for Uganda’s wild rhinos?
  
• Why I love elephant dung!
  
  

Tours and trips: Kampala city, seven crater lakes, and a long overdue cultural visit

A few of Diary of a Muzungu’s favourite Uganda tours from 2025

• From rolex to royalty — Kampala’s must-visit attractions
• Do numbers mean anything? Observations from Karamoja in remote north eastern Uganda
• On Top of the World – exploring Toro’s crater lakes by boda boda
• Serendipity in Mubende — the sacred Nakayima tree
  

Sustainability and legacy – some tributes

Celebrating a few of the people and projects shaping tourism and conservation in the region.

• Honouring Dr Jane Goodall: voices & field updates from the Albertine Apes Alliance
• Through colonization, conflicts and conservation: 100 years of Volcanoes National Park (Democratic Republic of the Congo). VNP is Africa’s oldest protected area
• Recognising sustainability at the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo
• The legacy of the marabou stork lover. RIP Professor Pomeroy

Planning a trip to Uganda or East Africa?

There’s a ton of info online and a lot of it is out of date. AI-generated itineraries look impressive but can be totally misleading (out of date pricing, non-existent lodges, unrealistic journey times and more). How do I know? I’ve tried them! For personally researched travel recommendations from me and my network across East Africa, get in touch.

The post Diary of a Muzungu’s 2025 highlights (in case you missed them!) appeared first on Diary of a Muzungu.

If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to enjoy the rolling hills and water bodies of Toro region, why not try a tour of the Kasenda Crater Lakes? Bike, walk or drive it!

When our friend Moreen Mungu travelled up from Kampala, we asked how she wanted to spend the weekend. Although she’d visited Fort Portal before, it was her first visit to Kibale Forest. Top of her wishlist was seeing a crater lake. But we could do better than that: we organised a guided boda tour of not one but seven of Toro region’s crater lakes!

Through Kibale Forest we go

To make the most of the day – and to enjoy the best views – we decided to travel by boda boda. Sunbird Hill naturalist guide Robert Bagonza wanted to save us money and suggested two passengers (and one driver) per bike, but we opted to be safe – and more comfortable! – and have one passenger per boda boda. What a good decision that was; it felt like being chauffeur-driven for the whole day.

An early morning start took us straight into Kibale Forest. I’ve driven this road hundreds of times by car, but on a boda the fresh air on my face was the loveliest way to wake up.

Sightings included:

• Baboons aplenty
• A red colobus monkey
• Occasionally you can see a shy forest elephant, chimpanzees, a bushbuck or even a civet cat

Our first stop was a popular passing point or ‘layby’ inside the forest. Here, a few years ago, we had alerted the Uganda Wildlife Authority to the buses that stopped in the layby for “a short call” (and to dump their rubbish). We’re happy to report UWA were quick to put up a ‘no litter’ sign.

Our next stop was the bridge over the Dura River. Keen birders love this for sightings of the Cape wagtail and the Cassin’s grey flycatcher.

A bubbling spring near Isunga and Rweteera

Our group on bodas exited the park and passed Isunga, best known as the location of the Uganda Wildlife Authority booking office and the turn for Isunga Lodge and Kibale Lodge.

Did you know there’s a small cold spring below the main road? It was good to stretch our legs after almost an hour astride the bikes. We walked from the main road through a farmer’s land and across the fields. Robert explained how difficult it was for farmers here as “no more than three days can pass without elephants exiting the forest and damaging crops.” Ouch.

We were all fascinated by the spring. Bubbles rose to the surface like some huge cauldron of soda water. Where do these bubbles come from? We scratched our heads trying to work that one out!

It would be wonderful to have a proper ecotourism site here so local people can benefit directly from the spring. I just pray it’s developed sensitively – let it be a concrete-free, plastic-rubbish-free zone.

The tea plantation

I’ve driven past this tea plantation on the edge of Kibale Forest hundreds of times. Finally, I had a chance to stop while on our crater lake boda boda tour. Regular Diary of a Muzungu readers know I have “a bit of a thing” about jerrycans. I am a big tea drinker too (very British!)

You can’t beat those spontaneous moments on a road trip! (Isn’t that the best part?)

Breakfast at Rweteera

The next – important – stop was breakfast! Robert had called ahead and ordered African tea and rolex for everyone at Sarah’s little roadside cabin in Rweteera.

“This is the best rolex I have eaten in years!” cried Julia. (We were certainly all famished by then!)

Top of the World – the highest point of our tour

“Top of the World” is perfectly named. From this hilltop you look out over rolling hills and a necklace of crater lakes.

There’s a restaurant here but there were no customers and no menu. I asked the chef for one but to no avail. What a shame. We passed by on a Sunday morning. With the right management, a location like this should be busy all day every weekend. Still, we loved the view. (Our boda boda escorts enjoyed the time out too!)

There is a charge of 5,000 UGX per person to enter Top of the World.

Seven crater lakes we visited

1. Lake Nyabikere, named after its frog inhabitants
2. Lake Nyinabulitwa
3. Lake Nyamirima
4. Lake Nkuruba – a small but deep lake where you are greeted by habituated black-and-white colobus monkeys. Walk down the steep slope to the water’s edge
5. Lake Nyinambuga – famous for appearing on the 20,000 Uganda shilling note, overlooked by the perennially fabulous Ndali Lodge
6. Lake Kifuruka
7. Lake Mwamba – just visible from the road as you skim past

I could write a story about every lake we visited. Suffice to stay, we stopped for countless photos along this most scenic of routes. I guess one day these roads will be tarmacked but the bumpy dustiness of it all were all part of the adventure for me.

Mahoma Waterfalls – the perfect end to our dusty tour!

After all that dust, a swim in the shallow pools at the base of Mahoma Falls was just the tonic!

Entry fee is 10,000 UGX for Ugandans, 15,000 UGX for residents (expats) and 20,000 UGX for non-residents (tourists). But beware of the steep, rickety ladder and slippery rocks on the walk down to the falls. On a recent visit to Mahoma Waterfalls, a friend of ours slipped and broke her ankle! Take care – (and carry your own drinks and eats too).

Dusty and tired, we cruised back through Kibale Forest towards home, happy that we had shown Mungu not one but seven crater lakes, the Top of the World, the cold springs and the ice cool Mahoma Falls!

Where shall we go next?

Planning a tour?

My name is Charlotte Beauvoisin, author of Diary of Muzungu and host of the East Africa Travel Podcast. If you’re planning a safari, send me a message and I’ll introduce you to one of the registered tour companies I travel with.

The post On Top of the World – exploring Toro’s crater lakes by boda boda appeared first on Diary of a Muzungu.

This week marked the latest meeting of the Albertine Apes Alliance, a gathering of some of the most influential conservationists, field researchers, and tourism leaders from across the Albertine Rift (the western arm of the Great Rift Valley). It was valuable to have so many high-level voices in the same room.

Jane Goodall’s work has shaped so many lives and careers in the region.

For many in the Sheraton Kampala Hotel conference room, it was a chance to share memories of working with Jane in Uganda. James Byamukama, Executive Director of the Jane Goodall Institute in Uganda reflected on Goodall’s legacy. He encouraged everyone to learn from her example: “everything we see, lets do there and then.” Dr Fred Nizeyimana, Gorilla Doctors, also spoke warmly of  Jane Goodall. “I hosted her several times when we worked at Ngamba Island.” He also praised her simplicity and her commitment – how even after a full day of activities she would quietly pick up rubbish washed up on the shore of Lake Victoria.

Why this gathering mattered

There’s a huge amount of important conservation work happening in Uganda and central Africa but the projects rarely get the attention they deserve. The remote nature of their work is one part of that equation. Tourism depends on healthy primates and ecosystems; conservation, in turn, relies substantially on tourism revenue and the attention visitors bring. Everyone stands to benefit when these two tribes meet to compare notes and challenges.

With the tourism industry in the spotlight now, it was important to welcome influential stakeholders such as Juliana Kaggwa, CEO of Uganda Tourism Board, and Yogi Birigwa, Chair of Uganda Tourism Association (UTA), the industry’s umbrella body.

Why I was delighted to attend

Regular Diary of a Muzungu readers – and East Africa Travel Podcast listeners – will know that I first came to Uganda to volunteer in conservation. I now live on the edge of Kibale National Park and continue to offer pro bono support to a number of conservation initiatives, in addition to my work as a sustainable tourism trainer. It was motivating to hear progress made on the challenges many of us aired at the inaugural event in 2022, which I documented in The challenge of protecting the Great Apes and the Albertine Rift.

Notable good news from the field

A few pieces of uplifting news came out of the day:

• The Gorilla Friendly Pledge is improving visitor adherence to gorilla tracking rules (though more advocacy is still needed, according to Alice Mbayahi of International Gorilla Conservation Programme). 
• Guest feedback is that chimp tracking at Kyambura Gorge has improved.
• In Kibale Forest, a group of around 100 chimps from the popular Kanyantale group is being re-habituated, which should in time reduce overcrowding. Dr Peter Apell of JGI Uganda added “It must happen sooner; we must stop the tourists overlapping.”
• Coordination between lion monitoring teams of Kyambura and Uganda Carnivore Programme in Queen Elizabeth National Park is improving data collection around big-cat areas.
• Mask-wearing around great apes introduced during the pandemic is now standard practice for all trackers, rangers and visitors in UWA managed protected areas. UWA provide masks free of charge (although it is not clear whether National Forestry Authority provide the same service to people tracking chimps in reserves).
• The census of mountain gorillas includes a census of the chimpanzee population for the first time.

Who are the Albertine Apes Alliance?

The Albertine Apes Alliance (AAA) is an informal coalition of organisations and individuals working in the protected areas of the Albertine Rift. The inaugural meeting took place in 2022 at Volcanoes Safaris‘ Mount Gahinga Lodge, near Kisoro, the aim being to “strengthen dialogue and collaboration across the Albertine Rift” of Uganda, Rwanda and the DR Congo.

As someone who attended that first meeting and follows developments in conservation and tourism, it’s heartening to see progress. Activities involving AAA members have included:

• Uganda Wildlife Authority ranger training with the Jane Goodall Institute in great ape National Parks and Forest Reserves.
• Recommendations on responsible ecotourism guidelines and disease prevention at Kibale Forest, led by Conservation Through Public Health and supported by the Arcus Foundation.
• Installation of signposts on chimpanzee tracking protocols for visitors to Kibale Forest and Kyambura Gorge.
• An informal conversation among partners on gorilla conservation and ecotourism at Virunga Lodge, Rwanda.

Tourism perspectives and challenges

Madam Yogi Birigwa of UTA called for a “higher calling” from visitors – for tourists to leave Uganda with a commitment to advocate for the protection of mountain gorillas and other wildlife.

Jonathan Wright, Owner Wildplaces, pushed for stronger law enforcement to tackle poaching and the bushmeat trade, citing the “immense” numbers of snares and poacher camps in Murchison Falls National Park. “We need the government to invest 100 million in law enforcement; we need the courts to prosecute poachers. We must keep people out of the parks.”

Updates from the field – Kibale Forest, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest & Queen Elizabeth Conservation Area

Chimpanzees – Emily Otali, Country Director, The Kasiisi Project / Kibale Forest Schools’ Program (founded by Professor Richard Wrangham in 1987). Human disease – especially viruses – is one of the biggest threats to great apes. “To reduce that, you need to keep people out of the forest.” She emphasised the role of scholarships for local children “one of the most effective interventions.”

Gorillas and disease – Dr Fred Nizeyimana, Gorilla Doctors. Previously respiratory-related illnesses were a big concern, now vets see a big increase in intestinal issues such as worms and parasites, even in a breastfeeding baby gorilla. In the last five years, six gorillas have been lost to such related health conditions.

Gorillas and communities – Dr Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka, Co-Founder, Conservation Through Public Health. Dr Gladys explained that “The most popular mountain gorilla groups are the most at risk since they are often found outside the national parks.” Through their Village Health Teams, CTPH provides simple solutions such as handwashing facilities and family planning to 50,000 people. “Behaviour change of the community works best when celebrated regularly.” Combined, these iniatitives can help protect the gorillas.

Read my review of Dr Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka’s book Walking with Gorillas.

Gorilla and chimpanzee census – Jean-Paul Hirwa, International Gorilla Conservation Programme. Two teams of six rangers are currently sweeping the gorilla habitat of Uganda, Rwanda and the DR Congo, undertaking a census of gorillas which now includes chimpanzees. The census has indirect benefits too: helping to monitor poaching levels, the presence of snares and changes in elephant distribution.

Lions and predators – Volcanoes Safaris’ Kyambura Lion Monitoring Team and the Uganda Carnivore Programme. Bosco from Kyambura and Kenneth from UCP “work closely in the field.” They shared the realities: human–wildlife conflict is worsened by the high number of people living in and around Queen Elizabeth National Park and the availability of cheap agrochemicals that are used to poison hyenas and lions. Invasive plant species and the loss of grasses impact herbivores. The knock-on effect to the food chain is that it drives carnivores to kill livestock.

Invasive species in Queen Elizabeth National Park – Francis Kiwanuka, Head Guide Volcanoes Safaris. Francis urged for more funding to remove invasive plants. “Congress weed is even worse than Sicklebush.”

Volcanoes Safaris and JGI and the power to convene

Takeaway messages from the day

Praveen Moman Founder of Volcanoes Safaris stated “It’s essential that great ape ecotourism is sensitive and controlled.” He reminded the audience that Dian Fossey herself warned that “tourism would kill the gorillas” if not managed carefully. 

Dr Glady’s plea to the tourism industry is for “tourists to visit the communities more.” When communities benefit directly from tourism, they are less likely to enter forests to set snares and spread disease.

Dr Peter Apell was “very positive about the people who convened for the day.”

Dr Jane Goodall’s message on Kyambura Ecotourism Projects

In 2021, the Jane Goodall Institute Uganda (JGI) and VSPT announced a long-term partnership to support the threatened chimpanzee population at Kyambura Gorge which builds on the work done by the Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust around the Kyambura Gorge landscape.

Coming soon on The East Africa Travel Podcast by Diary of a Muzungu

Field observations always fire up my imagination and I left the meeting with a long list of voices I want to amplify through the podcast. My aim? To use the sounds of nature and conversations with a range of fascinating guests to inspire travel to Uganda and East Africa and promote the great work of“cool people doing awesome stuff to protect our planet.”

As always, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to comment or contact the Muzungu!

The post Honouring Dr Jane Goodall: voices & field updates from the Albertine Apes Alliance appeared first on Diary of a Muzungu.