Uganda Offers Free Entry to Wildlife Parks for 48 Hours

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has announced a special initiative to promote tourism by offering free entry to four of the country’s most popular wildlife parks on October 17 and 18, 2024. The initiative is aimed at making tourism more accessible to both locals and foreign visitors, breaking the perception that experiencing Uganda’s natural wonders is only for the wealthy.

During this 48-hour event, visitors will have the opportunity to explore Kidepo Valley, Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Pian Upe National Parks without any entry fees. To facilitate access, UWA will provide four free shuttle buses to transport visitors between park entrances and key attractions. This initiative seeks to encourage more people to experience Uganda’s rich wildlife and natural beauty.

Steven Masaba, UWA’s tourism manager, explained the purpose of the initiative, stating, “The goal is to help people experience our natural wonders. Domestic tourism is growing, but many citizens still overlook the value of our national parks. This event is a unique opportunity for everyone to witness and appreciate the beauty of Uganda’s wildlife.”

Uganda’s national parks are home to a diverse array of animals, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and various bird species. Many mammal populations are on the rise, providing visitors with an exciting chance to see wildlife in their natural habitats. Masaba emphasized the importance of experiencing these natural treasures, especially in light of increasing conflicts between humans and wildlife.

Typically, entry fees for these parks range from sh20,000 to sh30,000, making this free-entry initiative a rare opportunity for people to explore these incredible sites at no cost. Over the past decade, UWA has made significant efforts to combat poaching, confiscating numerous snares, motorbikes, and fishing gear. These actions underscore the ongoing battle to preserve Uganda’s rich wildlife heritage.

Murchison Falls National Park, known for its dramatic waterfall on the Nile River, is a must-visit for nature lovers. Chief Warden Fredrick Kiiza highlighted the park’s stunning scenery, saying, “The sight of water plunging dramatically through a narrow gorge is awe-inspiring. The Baker’s Trail offers breathtaking views as you walk from the base to the top of the falls.” Boat rides on the Nile provide close-up encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its tree-climbing lions and diverse wildlife. Steven Nyadru, UWA’s tourism warden at the park, described the spectacle of lions lounging in trees. The park is also known for boat rides along the Kazinga Channel, where visitors can observe hippos and crocodiles.

Kidepo Valley National Park, located in the remote northwest of Uganda, offers a true wilderness experience, with vast buffalo herds and breathtaking landscapes. Senior Ranger Philip Akoromwe remarked on the unique dynamics of the ecosystem, saying, “The way nature operates here is extraordinary.” The park also provides visitors with an opportunity to engage with the traditional lifestyle of the Karimojong people, who have lived in the region for centuries.

Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, though lesser-known, is a hidden gem for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The reserve features over 250 bird species, including the rare Karamoja Apalis. Local guide Judith Mirembe highlighted the importance of Pian Upe for its biodiversity and ancient rock art, which offers insight into early human history.

Commissioner Ajer Basil noted that local interest in the country’s natural and cultural heritage is increasing. With free entry to some of the nation’s most iconic parks on October 17 and 18, 2024, this event represents a unique chance for everyone—locals and visitors alike—to explore Uganda’s stunning landscapes and wildlife.