Recently, I embarked on a short trip through Uganda and Rwanda, and with the help of Galactic Safaris, I had one of the most enriching experiences of my life. Here's a detailed account of my journey.
Initially, I considered organizing the trip myself. However, I realized it would be less stressful to leave the planning in the hands of professionals. After some research and negotiations, I decided to go with Galactic Safaris, a tour company based in Uganda. Their CEO, Timothy, was incredibly helpful and fluent in English, which made communication easy. The price was also flexible, allowing me to tailor the trip to fit my budget.
My guide for the trip was Bosco, a 25-year-old father of twins from the Bakiga tribe. Bosco was an outstanding guide—not only knowledgeable but also personable, always ensuring I was comfortable and safe throughout the journey.
The day kicked off early, with Bosco picking me up from my Airbnb at 3 AM. We crossed the border from Uganda into Rwanda and headed straight for Mgahinga National Park. This park is famous for being the only place in Uganda where you can see golden monkeys—a species I had been eager to observe.
We embarked on a 5-hour hike through the forest, and although I was alone, I never felt lonely. Traveling solo can sometimes feel isolating, but for me, it became an opportunity to connect with locals and fellow travelers alike. The conversations along the way kept me engaged, and before I knew it, the hike had come to an end.
By evening, I was checked into Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, nestled high in the mountains. As I sat down for dinner, exhaustion set in, but it was the kind that leaves you feeling accomplished after an eventful day
Day two was the highlight of the trip: gorilla trekking! We left the lodge at 7 AM, excited for what was to come. After a quick briefing on how to behave around gorillas, we began our trek at 8:30 AM.
Around 10 AM, we encountered our first gorilla family. The rangers led us into the dense forest, filled with swamps, small rivers, bamboo groves, and massive fallen trees. The forest floor was damp, covered with the remnants of leaves the gorillas had eaten. This wild, untamed environment made the experience all the more exhilarating.
Watching the gorillas was surreal. They were docile and peaceful, going about their daily routines—eating leaves, playing, and caring for their young. I was particularly fascinated by the contrast between the playful gorilla children and the stoic adults, who calmly stood tall, chewing on leaves.
One moment that stood out was seeing a gorilla with some poop stuck to its rear—something that added a touch of humor to the otherwise serene experience.
By 1:30 PM, we returned from the trek, exhausted but satisfied. The water and snacks we had along the way were incredibly refreshing, and the rangers, ever patient and kind, ensured we had a memorable experience.
Throughout my travels, I encountered the warmth and friendliness of the East African people. Children and women would wave at me with bright smiles, calling out "Hello, hello!" It was heartwarming to see their enthusiasm.
While some travelers might be asked for money occasionally, I made it a point to give back in other ways, such as purchasing crafts directly from the villages and handing out candy to children. This approach felt more sustainable and respectful of their communities.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this trip was how smooth everything was, thanks to the Galactic Africa Safaris team. CEO Timothy was incredibly reliable, and Bosco, our guide and driver, was tireless. He handled all the logistics with precision, from border crossings to ensuring safe driving conditions.
Bosco also constantly checked on my well-being: "Is there anything you’re concerned about? Are you okay?" These small acts of care made a huge difference and gave me peace of mind throughout the trip.
I never imagined that organizing such a well-executed tour could be so easy—especially just by communicating through WhatsApp. But the Galactic Safaris team exceeded my expectations in every way.
This trip through Uganda and Rwanda was truly unforgettable, and I owe much of its success to Galactic Safaris. From golden monkey sightings in Mgahinga National Park to an intimate gorilla trek, every moment was filled with awe and wonder. If you're considering an adventure in East Africa, I highly recommend this company for their excellent teamwork, reliable service, and personal touch.
I returned home feeling not only satisfied but deeply grateful for the experience. I can't wait to embark on another journey with them.
Manami (Tokyo JP)
