On the Trail of the Silverbacks
Discovering the Pearl of Africa: An Extraordinary FamTrip Through Uganda
It may have been one of our smallest groups - only three LCC entrepreneurs from LCC GreeceontheGo (Greece), LCC Supertour (Poland) and LCC Omnia (Belgium) joined by Daphne Pallikaraki from the LCC Headquarters - but it created some of the biggest memories.
Our colleague Daphne reports:
"Earlier this month, I had the privilege of joining a fam trip to Uganda, organized by our LCC partner Let' Go Travel and co-sponsored by Brussels Airlines, along with three LCC from Belgium, Poland and Greece. What unfolded was much more than just a professional journey. It was an eye-opening adventure through some of the most breathtaking landscapes and wildlife encounters I have ever experienced."
Day 1–2: Into the Forests of Kibale National Park
"Our adventure began in Kibale National Park, famous for its dense rainforest and resident chimpanzees. The morning air was filled with birdsong as we set off on our chimpanzee tracking experience, equipped with our hiking boots and a sense of anticipation, we followed our local guide into the forest.
The moment we first spotted a troop of chimpanzees swinging high in the trees was magical. They moved with such agility and confidence through the canopy, mothers carrying babies, juveniles playing, and older chimps observing us with almost human curiosity. Kibale truly lived up to its reputation as one of the best places in the world to see these intelligent primates.
And then later, during a game drive, we were lucky enough to spot lions. Watching them lazily draped across a fig tree branch was a surreal sight, the kind of moment you see in documentaries but rarely in real life. Along the way, we also spotted impalas and buffaloes, each encounter deepening our appreciation for Uganda’s rich biodiversity."
Day 3–4: The Beauty of Queen Elizabeth National Park
"Next, we journeyed south to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a landscape that beautifully blends savannah, forest, and crater lakes. The drive itself was a delight, passing through local villages, banana plantations, and scenic hills, all with our ever-smiling driver David, who navigated every road with skill and endless good humor.
In the park, we embarked on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a highlight for many of us. The calm waters were alive with wildlife: pods of hippos wallowing near the banks, elephants cooling off in the shallows, and countless birds, from colorful kingfishers to majestic African fish eagles. The proximity to the animals made it feel like we were part of the ecosystem, not just visitors."
Day 5–6: Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
"Our journey continued deeper south to one of Africa’s most legendary destinations: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The name “Impenetrable” became clear as we trekked through thick vegetation, climbing over roots and crossing streams. It was challenging, but every step brought us closer to one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences imaginable.
When we finally encountered a gorilla family, time seemed to stand still. A silverback sat calmly nearby, powerful yet peaceful, while younger gorillas played around him. Their expressions, movements, and even the way they interacted felt so familiar, a reminder of our connection to the natural world. It was an emotional moment for all of us, one that words can hardly capture.
That night, our lodge offered stunning views over the forested hills of Bwindi. The silence was deep, broken only by the sounds of insects and the rustle of trees. It was the perfect setting to reflect on the incredible privilege of witnessing such rare wildlife in their natural habitat."
Day 7: Wildlife Encounters in Lake Mburo National Park
"On our way toward the southwest, we made a stop at Lake Mburo National Park, one of Uganda’s most picturesque and easily accessible parks. Though smaller than the others, Mburo offered a completely different landscape, open acacia woodland, rolling hills, and sparkling lakes.
Our game drive through the park was peaceful yet full of surprises. We came across herds of zebras grazing in golden grasslands and giraffes slowly striding across the horizon. It was wonderful to see them up close, their patterns glowing under the afternoon sun. Warthogs, impalas, and topis added to the diversity, creating the perfect safari atmosphere. Lake Mburo provided a relaxing transition between the larger parks and a reminder of just how varied Uganda’s natural beauty can be.
That evening, we relaxed at a lodge surrounded by lush greenery. Sitting around the campfire, listening to the distant calls of forest creatures and even being visited by a hippo family, we felt the true essence of being close to nature."
Beyond the Wildlife: Uganda’s Warmth and Hospitality
"Throughout the trip, what stood out just as much as the wildlife was the warmth of the Ugandan people. Everywhere we went, we were greeted with smiles and genuine hospitality. We danced, made banana beer and roasted our own coffee beans. What better way to uniquely experience a country?"
Reflections on the Pearl of Africa
"I feel immense gratitude, for the experiences, the friendships formed, and the memories made in this incredible corner of Africa. By the end of the trip, we all agreed that Uganda had exceeded every expectation. From the playful chimpanzees of Kibale to the mighty gorillas of Bwindi, from the open savannahs of Queen Elizabeth to the tranquil beauty of the Kazinga Channel, along with breathtaking lodges, built in harmony with nature, offering comfort without losing the sense of adventure, each experience revealed a new facet of this diverse and captivating country.
For travel professionals, this fam trip was more than just an educational journey. It was a reminder of why we do what we do, to connect people with places that inspire awe and respect for our planet. Uganda’s natural beauty, wildlife, and friendly spirit make it a destination that deserves to be on every traveler’s list and LCC Let's Go Travel can make that absolutely possible. An exceptionally organized and put together trip by Marinka and her team- if you want your clients to experience this beautiful country, you are in safe hands."