Thanks to its hot equatorial climate, there are numerous reptiles in Uganda from snakes, crocodiles, lizards, tortoises and chameleons amongst others and, in our opinion, the best place to see those reptiles is at the Uganda Reptile Village in Entebbe. The village is a bit off the beaten track and while accessible by car whose driver isn't too concerned about his/her suspension, a boda boda is preferable or, like us, you can walk to the village in around 30-40 minutes from the main road depending on how often the local kids come running to greet you shouting "muzungo, how are you?" before all of their brothers, sisters and cousins decide they should also come out and greet you!
The reptile village itself isn't that extensive but
a few very enjoyable hours can be spent there not
least because the committed staff are eager to guide you around the centre explaining all about the reptiles which they really care for. Most of the reptiles found in Uganda
are housed within the village environment which comprises cages
for visitor safely and temperature control or outdoor enclosures
for the larger reptiles such as crocodiles. For the squeamish, while the staff really love the reptiles, that same love and attention isn't given to the live chicks fed to the crocodiles, but there you go so best look away whilst those crocodiles bask in the sun
whilst the little chicks clamber all over them ~ until, of course
the crocs get hungry! You will also get the chance, if wanted, to handle
tortoises some of which are hundreds of years old and snakes, most of which are not.
Our two intrepid reports Ian and Ben had mixed reactions with Ian
embracing the opportunity whilst Ben embraced the opportunity to say "no!" to snake handling. All of the reptiles in the village have been rescued from danger and part of the purpose of the centre is to how educate the local community about how to co-exist such creatures safely. During your stay in Uganda the reptile you will probably see most often is the "gecko" or lizard. These creatures can often be found
scuttling around the inside of your room or tent. They are utterly
harmless but also offer a useful service in that they feed on
mosquitoes or other insects. While a bit unnerving at first,
don't panic, they won't harm you, have no teeth, and set about
their insect clearing routines quietly and efficiently. Think of
them as a cheap mosquito spray, although they can fall from your ceiling while you are sleeping which can be somewhat disconcerting, especially if they try and escape inside your sleeping bag. Been there.
After you've explored all of these reptiles in Uganda at the
village, the kids will enjoy taking a canoe or pedalo ride and
splashing around in the small canal dug out within the grounds of
the reptile park. This is included in the very reasonable cost of
entry. All in all a well recommended adventure that you are unlikely to
find elsewhere so take the opportunity to visit when in Entebbe. The Reptiles Village has its own
website however it is currently unavailable. They can be contacted
on +256 782 349583 but are open during normal hours
seven days a week.
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As yet largely uncommercialised,
Western Uganda has many tourist
attractions for the explorer to visit.
As well as the main tourist attractions
there are many other activities
to enjoy in Western Uganda.
A guide to the main towns in and
around Western Uganda, where to stay,
eat and things to see and do.
A comprehensive guide to the best
places to stay when visiting Western
Uganda from hotels to camp sites.