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SIPI FALLS, UGANDA

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The magnificent Sipi Falls are located in Eastern Uganda, on the slopes of Mountain Elgon. This trip was one of a kind which involved hiking up and down the slopes of Mt. Elgon to view three different water falls named Sipi 1, 2 and 3, situated at different levels.  The hike begun at the bottom of the Sipi 1, with water falling from above and draining into Sipi river. The tour guide took us further up the slope to view a different angle of this water fall. As the waters fell from up high, one is struck by the beauty of the landscape. As we continued to hike up to the next falls, we came across a chameleon, one of the commonest creatures in this area. We came across a local homestead graced with little houses painted with earth dust, giving them a distinct appearance, none like I have seen in other parts of the country. We were welcomed by the owners, who appeared to be accustomed to receiving tourists.   We proceeded with our hike and came across a natu

KIDEPO VALLEY NATIONAL PARK

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Kidepo Valley National Park is located in Karamoja region, on the North Eastern part of Uganda, bordering South Sudan. We set off at about 7am and embarked on a 9 hours journey from Kampala to Kidepo via road. This was supposed to be my birthday trip for the year 2019 so I was extremely excited. We arrived at Kidepo late that night where we spent a night at Apoka Rest Camp inside the park. The following morning, we woke up to the sound of a lion roaring  just outside the hut like cottages we slept in. No one could step out of their room until sun came out. Immediately after breakfast, we were introduced to our tour guide and we set off for the game drive. From the top of the tour vehicle, I got a clear view of the terrain. The vegetation was savanna grasslands with scattered trees. Several wildlife grazed the park from the  warthogs, buffaloes, elephants and zebras. As we drove through the park,   we came across a water dam where different bird species

NYERO ROCK PAINTINGS, UGANDA

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Located in Teso region, Nyero Rock Paintings provide a perfect spot for rock climbers in Eastern Uganda. For me, it presents an outdoor challenge for me to conquer. The view from the top is magnificent. With so many rocks to climb, one is spoilt for choice.  Nyero Rock Paintings also tells a rich history dating back 5,000 years. It is said that the first occupants of this area were the Batwa who were pygmies, before being displaced by the Iteso who migrated into the area in the 17th century. This painting in particular has been used on one of the Uganda Shilling notes.  They painted symbols of their sun god and wildlife in the region as a means of communication. Some of these paintings still exist. With such a heritage, one is left in awe and wonder, curious to find out more about the early inhabitants of Teso.

NGAMBA ISLANDS CHIMPANZEE SANCTUARY, UGANDA

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As I disembark the speed boat hired to transport me from the mainland to Ngamba Island, I am greeted by a large  sign post welcoming me to Ngamba Islands Chimpanzee Sanctuary. Grateful for having won this day trip after participating in a raffle draw, excitement mounts as I enter the sanctuary eager to explore. Prior to the tour, I was briefied by a tour guide on the history of Ngamba Islands; number of chimpanzees and their lifestyle; their rescue stories and community projects which the sanctuary undertakes mainly in areas where chimpanzees are likely to be found in Uganda. The tour was organized in such a way that it coincided with  feeding time for the chimps. This is because the chimpanzees spend most of their time in the jungle and only return to the sanctuary during feeding time. Like clock work, the chimpanzees turn up in large numbers to receive their meal comprised of mostly fruits. I watch from above as the tour guide explains how chimpanzees