CategoriesTours Wildlife By ops7m

Impact of COVID-19 on Ugandan Wildlife Conservation and Tourism: A Story of Resilience and Recovery.

When the COVID-19 pandemic erupted in March 2020, Uganda swiftly responded by closing down its national parks, including the renowned Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, to shield gorillas and chimpanzees from potential infections. The abrupt halt in tourism, which contributes up to 60% of the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s operating revenue, posed significant challenges not only for wildlife conservation but also for the livelihoods of communities surrounding Bwindi.

The Toll on Tourism and Conservation

Tour guide Patrick Kataama, reliant on income from gorilla-trekking tours, found himself in dire straits when parks were closed. With the sudden halt in tourism, Uganda’s ecotourism sector, experiencing exponential growth over two decades, faced a staggering 73% income reduction in 2020. Gorilla trekking, a vital component of ecotourism, contributes substantially to conservation efforts, generating over $25 million in revenue in 2018/2019.

The closure of Bwindi, which provides 60% of the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s revenue, left a financial void affecting not only the park but all protected areas struggling to cover operational costs. As tourism vanished, a surge in poaching occurred, driven by local communities desperate for food and income. Rangers discovered an alarming increase in snares during the lockdown, threatening the safety of wildlife, including the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.

Conservation Amidst Crisis: A Silver Lining Emerges

In response to the crisis, Conservation Through Public Health (CTPH), an NGO focusing on health and coexistence between communities and wildlife, intensified its programs. CTPH aimed to alleviate the pressure on Bwindi and its surrounding communities, recognizing the interconnectedness of public health, livelihoods, and conservation.

Key Initiatives by CTPH:

  1. Supporting Public Health: CTPH distributed face masks, conducted COVID-19 awareness campaigns, and integrated COVID-19 testing into routine respiratory disease monitoring.
  2. Emergency Food Relief: To combat hunger, CTPH initiated an emergency food relief program, distributing fast-growing seedlings to farmers around the park.
  3. Alternative Livelihoods: CTPH promoted alternative livelihoods through its social enterprise, Gorilla Conservation Coffee, supporting over 500 coffee farmers and keeping them out of the forest.

Recovery and Adaptation

Uganda’s borders reopened in October 2020, allowing gorilla tours to resume a month later. The Uganda Wildlife Authority offered a 50% discount on park fees between December 2020 and June 2021 to attract visitors. Although the full recovery of tourist numbers may take two to three years, some operators are reporting positive signs.

Mission Africa Safaris, a tour company at Bwindi, experienced a surge in tourists compared to pre-pandemic levels. However, the profile of international visitors shifted, with generally younger tourists spending less. The pandemic underscored both vulnerability and strength, prompting a realization that conservation cannot solely depend on tourism.

Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Sustainable Conservation

The COVID-19 pandemic served as a wake-up call for Uganda, emphasizing the need for diversified approaches to sustain conservation beyond tourism. While the sector faced unprecedented challenges, it also showcased resilience and adaptability. As Uganda navigates the path to recovery, the lessons learned during the crisis pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient future for wildlife conservation and tourism.

CategoriesSafari Tours Wildlife By ops7m

Exploring Uganda: A Unique Adventure of Gorilla Trekking and Rwenzori Hiking.

Embarking on a journey through Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” promises a unique and unforgettable adventure, combining the thrill of gorilla trekking with the awe-inspiring experience of hiking the Rwenzori Mountains. This exceptional journey is a must for any adventurous traveler seeking the perfect blend of wildlife encounters and mountaineering. To ensure an optimal and safe experience, it is crucial to partner with a licensed local safari company. Rwenzori Expeditions, a reputable operator, offers enticing packages, including the 12-day Rwenzori and gorilla trekking tour priced at $3,780 per person, encompassing gorilla and climbing permits.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Prime Locations for Gorilla Trekking

Witnessing the majestic mountain gorillas of Uganda is a privilege reserved for the best locations, with Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga National Park topping the list. These parks offer close encounters with these incredible creatures in the heart of tropical rainforests, guided by certified ranger guides from the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Key Sectors for Gorilla Tracking:

  1. Buhoma Sector: The oldest trailhead, featuring diverse gorilla families.
  2. Rushaga Sector: Easily accessible, boasting the highest number of habituated gorilla families.
  3. Nkuringo Sector: A challenging trek with breathtaking high-altitude views and three habituated gorilla families.
  4. Ruhija Sector: Ideal for those including Queen Elizabeth National Park in their itinerary, offering unique activities like cycling, birdwatching, and encounters with the Batwa community.

Mgahinga National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, part of the Virunga conservation region, provides a more intimate gorilla trekking experience. Home to the Nyakagezi family, this park offers fewer crowds and a maximum of eight gorilla permits per day. Booking permits in advance is advised to secure a spot for the 8 am briefing and trek.

Unveiling the Rwenzori Mountains

Overview of Rwenzori Mountains

Known as the “Mountain of the Moon,” the Rwenzori Mountains offer a chance to scale Africa’s third-highest peak, providing breathtaking scenery. Rwenzori Expeditions, with a decade of expertise, leads mountaineering tours tailored for summit success.

Rwenzori Climbing Tours

  1. Seven-day Climb: Priced at $1,120 per person, this expedition ensures summiting the peak, with an optional extra day for $150 if needed.
  2. Central Circuit Route: Discounted to $1,050, this variant offers a more economical option for exploring the Rwenzori Mountains.

Recommendations

Rwenzori Expeditions suggests starting the adventure with gorilla trekking and concluding with a Rwenzori Mountains climb. This sequence allows travelers to transition seamlessly from encountering wildlife to marveling at the plants and vegetation from the snow-capped mountains.

Planning Your Ugandan Safari

Uganda, with its abundance of nature and wildlife, caters to every type of tourist. Options range from thrilling wildlife safaris and gorilla trekking to exhilarating mountaineering experiences. To ensure an optimal experience, consider the services of licensed local operators like Primate Safari Experiences Limited (Rwenzori Expeditions). This company is registered and licensed by the Ugandan tourism board, a member of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators, and fully registered with the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

In conclusion, a Ugandan safari promises a diverse and enriching experience for adventure enthusiasts. Whether you are captivated by the allure of gorilla trekking or enticed by the challenge of conquering the Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda beckons with open arms, ready to unveil its natural wonders and wildlife wonders. Don’t miss the opportunity to add gorilla trekking to your bucket list – it’s an experience unlike any other!