Arrive near the shores of Lake Victoria, birth of the Nile, a river that has defined human history. This time, however, you are after much more ancient stories: those of the natural world. The city of Entebbe, capital of Uganda, has many attractions: the zoo for instance. But you crave wider horizons. So you decide to take advantage of the luxurious accommodations and relax. Tomorrow, your adventure to meet the gorillas begins.
It’s an early morning, but well worth the abrupt start. You are leaving urban Uganda for the misty, impenetrable Bwindi forest. The dramatic contrasts of this country become apparent at once. This morning you were in a modern city, and by noon you are walking in one of the primordial places of the Earth. A forest so dense and mysterious, that you can hardly wait to meet some of its grander inhabitants. Just a little longer. First, let’s make the most out of the hospitality. Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge is one of its kind. Your private cottage is made out of volcanic rock, and on the walls hang some of the finest Ugandan pieces of art. Commissions are accepted.
It’s time to meet the giants. Mountain Gorillas lurk in the dense vegetation of Bwindi Forest: proud, social and yet gentle creatures. They are a threatened species, so every care must be taken not to harm them. Visiting them is an enormous privilege. Expert guides take you through gorgeous mountain paths. They are well versed in reading the signs, they are your interpreters in this strange place. Finally, some sounds, a fleeting sight. Your heart begins to pound. Then, from the mist and the dense forest, emerges one of the giants. Your eyes meet and there is deep understanding, an unforeseen familiarity: the value of life.
Gorilla tracking is almost a mystical experience. On the other hand, Chimpanzee tracking is just fun. One of Andrea’s friends, a zoologist this time around, tells you all about his research: human evolution. Kyaninga Lodge perhaps captures the essence of Ugandan landscape the best. Hike to “The Top of the World”, and if that is not dramatic enough, look around and drink in the sights: you get a view of the ever snowy peaks of the Mountains of the Moon.
There is a final chapter to this rich and unforgettable experience: Kidepo Valley. The savannah is home to some of the most impressive wildlife in the planet. As you relax in your private cottage, the ground begins to shake. Don’t worry. It is just a herd of zebras running past your window... Yes! Only in Uganda!
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