FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS REGARDING STAYS AT SAMBIYA RIVER LODGE
Q: What is the best time to go on safari in Uganda?
A: The best times to travel in Uganda are December to February and June to September.
Q: What is your advice to those wanting to fish in Murchison?
A: According to Sambiya River Lodge’s Fishing Hall of Fame member and expert fisherman, Jim Moorhouse, " the best times of the year are January 1st through Easter and again, July 1st through October 1st although when bait hits the water, anything can happen….and usually does!
It is absolutely essential that anglers handle fish carefully and release all caught except for the occasional 15-20 pounders for the “table”. Otherwise the fishery will be destroyed. That would be a huge pity… the big ones are caught multiple time. I caught a 128 pounder and four days later she hit again at 124 lbs. … a week later my fishing partner got her and she was down to 120 lbs. Then we left and, thank God, gave her a respite!
A friend got a century with the tail half eaten off by a croc and nicely scared over. A fishing partner got the same fish two months later!
That fishery could be wiped out of big fish by inattentive handling and over pressuring. Some anglers don’t realize the number of big fish is limited. Many are careless….”
Q: What kind of clothes etc. should I bring with me for my safari?
A: Shorts, light weight tops and sandals for travel days; good hiking boots, sun hat, sweat band & gloves (for tracking gorillas & chimps); light weight rain gear, long sleeve shirt and pants (for any type of walking safari), a light backpack, sunscreen, and sun glasses. Most up market lodges have swimming pools, so remember your swim suits! Khaki colored clothing is advised since it does not attract insects and it is cooler to wear. Evenings may get cool, especially in Bwindi, Mgahinga or the Virungas (Rwanda) so bring a jacket and / or sweater. Also remember bug spray, especially if you are going to do any fishing. Favorite snacks, enough film and a diary may also be packed.
Chimp trackers undertaking activities at Padidi (Budongo Forest) MUST wear long trousers and proper walking shoes (as opposed to sandals). Individuals coming to track in sandals will be asked to wear rubber boots provided by the guides. It is advisable to tuck socks over the bottom of trousers to prevent safari ants (one of the few insects you will encounter while tracking) from getting under clothing and climbing up one's legs!
Q: What is it like to track chimps?
A: Being in fit physical condition is advised. Chimp tracking may involve hiking up and down hills, negotiating over muddy areas or small streams and sometimes going off track through dense forests.
A: In Pabidi there are only age limits for chimpanzee tracking, which is 15 years. Adults should be physically fit for hiking activities, which vary in length. Chimp tracking may last from 1 to 5 hours. As time goes by, chimps get more habituated and are easier to find and less time is spent in tracking. The length of time for forest walks may be decided with the ranger guide and the other members of your hiking group.
Q: If I want to bring my children with me on safari, are there activities for them to do while chimp tracking?
A: Sambiya River Lodge has games and activities that will keep children occupied while parents are tracking. We can provide a sitter to watch children while parents are busy. Ugandans generally love children and are very good with them.
Q: What medical precautions should I take?
A: Get a medical check up before coming on safari if you have had previous medical concerns. Carry all important medications in your hand luggage. See further medical advice under travel tips.
Q: What are the roads like in Uganda?
A: The only dual carriage ways (four lane highways) are on the outskirts of Kampala. Usually major and secondary roads are well maintained better than other places in East Africa. Roads do tend to deteriorate with heavy rains, which are frequent in Uganda –so there may be portions of roads that are in between maintenance, which could be better. Just be prepared for such instances and take them in stride as part of your African safari experience!
Q: What is the travel times to Sambiya River Lodge from Kampala?
A: Traveling leisurely (not during rush hour traffic times in Kampala); taking into consideration rest, photo, and refueling stops-
Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park is about five hours driving
Q: What type of transport does Sambiya River Lodge offer?
A: Games drives can be arranged in advance in the lodge 7 seater pop up roof mini bus is for rent, inclusive of driver.
Our vehicles are well maintained, but you must remember you are traveling in Africa and road conditions differ from those in developed countries. Vehicles do get flat tires, which our drivers are very good at changing! Just take such occurrences in stride, as part of the African safari experience!
Q: Is there electricity at Sambiya River Lodge?
A: Sambiya River Lodge has power provided by generators and solar energy. Park regulations usually do not allow generators to be run through out the night so it is advisable to pack a flashlight and batteries. If you need to recharge batteries remember to do it when the generator is first turned on.
Q: Is Sambiya River Lodge in MFNP child friendly?
A: Yes, we enjoy having children at the Lodge and it is a popular family destination. We have “family cottages” which provide two bedrooms with an interconnecting door… mom and dad can stay in one and up to three or four children in the other! We provide high chairs and cribs for very young visitors. Board games and outdoor games keep older children occupied. In the evenings families can watch wildlife videos before or after dinner. Children enjoy swimming in the pool but we do request that parents supervise their children in the pool area for their children’s safety and other clients’ enjoyment. Campfires, music entertainment and star gazing (via Lodge telescope) can all be arranged, but must be supervised by a parent and a Lodge staff member.
Q: What is the best way to pay for my accommodation?
A: We suggest that you pay through a telegraphic transfer to our bank account. The necessary information will be provided once you have confirmed your safari. Please refer to booking terms and conditions for further information.
If you have been unable to find the answers to any of your questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.
