Cycling or mountain biking is not only a form of sport, but rather an adventurous way of exploring areas in Uganda. During safaris it has become one of the adventures enjoyed by travelers who visit the pearl of Africa. Cycling can be added to other safari activities that one can participate in. It gives you an insight to discover some parts of the country that are not accessible by vehicles.
Participating in cycling or mountain biking in Uganda does not require you to be an expert or have experience. There is always time to guide the less experienced travelers and an experienced guide always accompanies you. There are some incredible mountain biking routes in western Uganda, including riding through valleys, along rivers, and hills, in village communities, and a national park.
Most regions in Uganda offer mountain biking and cycling opportunities for both experienced and non-experienced bikers and this can be done in;
Cycling can be done in Lake Mburo National Park where visitors get to explore the park on bicycles. Bicycle rides in the park are guided by game rangers to protect you from dangerous animals. During the cycling activity, you will follow well-established routes that go through open savannah grasslands, swampy valleys, and forested hills. Giving you a chance get close encounters with animals like zebras, giraffes, waterbucks, warthogs, impalas, bird species, and vegetation types among others. Cycling activities in Lake Mburo are possible and favorable throughout the whole park.
There are trails that can be used for biking especially in buhoma sector, like when going to Nkuringo Nteko village. This trail is located in the southern area of Bwindi, you cross the Ivy River over a recently constructed bridge. As you ride through the forest you will see some birds, wildlife species like forest elephants, and primates like red-tailed monkeys, colobus, and black-and-white monkeys among others. These rides usually last 4 to 7 hours including time to stop, have a drink, and a snack.
To go to the town of Kapchorwa from the Sipi trading centre, you can ride a bike which can take you up to Chema hill. You will be rewarded with amazing views of waterfalls and the Karamoja plains as well.
Lake Victoria cycling island
Lake Victoria Island is a beautiful island located off the coast of Kampala and is just a few kilometers away. The island is not easily accessible however, the best way to explore it is to take a cycling tour. You will pass through charming towns and different landscapes, it is about a 20-kilometre ride and is ideal for beginners and non-experienced bikers.
Booking a Cycling Safari in Uganda is not difficult since it does not require a permit to participate in this activity. A traveler interested in this activity can contact a tour operator like Fairend Safaris to make arrangements in the preferred schedules of your visit to Uganda. We will source the equipment you will require during your safari like the bicycle, helmet and other protective equipment.
Cycling can be done anytime throughout the year however, the best time is during the dry season which is from June to September, and December to February. During the dry season, Uganda receives less rainfall therefore trails, paths or roads will be dry and not slippery.
There are a number of shopping centers, malls and shops in Uganda where one can buy a bike which can cost about $70. Although most areas where cycling activity is offered usually provide the bikes and other protective equipment. You can as well hire a bike through a tour agent who will help you prepare for activity.
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