The thrills of Queen Elizabeth National Park
Nov 13, 2018
When you torch the wild animals they always mistake the light for a fire and they steer clear of it
Every time I clap my eyes on a tourist van, my travel juices get rowdy. I cannot help wish I was on board especially if it is destined to Queen Elizabeth National Park. There is always something thrilling out there.
One time I clapped my eyes on an antelope braving the threat of a lion disguised in the brown grass as it digested and basked under the noon sun.
Next on my list of thrillers came the cheetah in its natural habitat of a cactus tree. It looked so calm and composed. I caught myself doubting if it can sprint at a speed of 80km per hour when chasing its prey.
Singer Irene Namubiru sailing on a boat. (Credit: Titus Kakembo)
And time and again I am cautioned to go to the park with a torch for safety.
"When you torch the wild animals they always mistake the light for a fire and they steer clear of it," tipped Philip Akoromwe in Kidepo.
"Move back ward while keeping eye contact because they never attack head on!"
Also Read: Queen Elizabeth National Park has got lots more
File photo of Queen Elizabeth National Park, hidden a five-hour drive away (about 400km) from Kampala city.
Wait a minute, this time round I was on a boat ride on the Kazinga Channel when Petrah Bira's voice sizzled out of the speakers pointing at migrant birds.
"They flee the harsh winters in Europe and seek refuge here or refuel before continuing down south," said Bira.
"They do it with maps or compass!"
Herman of Uganda Enkulu wolfing a giant goat's rib on the boat. (Credit: Titus Kakembo)
Adding that besides having a break to dine on fish and cereals available, some opt to stay for keeps.
"They live in harmony with our biggest herd of hippos in the world that sum up to 1700 here!" posed Bira for the point to drive home.
"The biggest influx of birds is in August and September. They add to the more than 300 resident species."
Birds that tweet with foreign accents sun bathing. (Credit: Titus Kakembo)
While there I bumped into social media maestro Zari, crooner Irene Mubiru and minister of state for tourism Geofrey Kiwanda residing at posh Chobe Safari Lodge.
I chose the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Bandas at a pocket friendly rate that enabled me sip a beer at a subsidized fee.
The neighborhood has lots more accommodation facilities to cater for low budget, back packers and students. Fresh deep fried fish is served with chips.