The Uganda Reptile Village in Entebbe is one of the best destinations to see various endangered reptile species in captivity. The Uganda Reptile Village is a Community Based Organisation that was founded in 2004 by a snake enthusiast, Yasin Kazibwe. The destination is only 36 km from Kampala. It is the first private sector home to reptiles and amphibians in Uganda.
The Uganda Reptile Village in Entebbe shelters a mixture of over 50 rescued native crocodiles, snakes, tortoises and chameleons among others. These are some of the most sought-after animals threatened with extinction, conflict with humans and trafficking etc. Tens of animals comprising reptiles and amphibians have been rescued by the Uganda Reptile Village Entebbe.
Some of the animals especially the previously injured are rehabilitated in here and then reintroduced into the wild. At the Uganda Reptile Village Entebbe, sensitization about the significance of conserving reptiles and amphibians is done. This is key in ensuring that the animals survive for future generations. The place is open daily from 08:00 a.m. to 06:00 p.m.
Attractions at Reptile Village Entebbe?
The Uganda Reptile Village in Entebbe is primarily known for the diversity of reptiles and amphibians kept there. These include turtles, chameleons, Nile crocodiles, black mambas, Gaboon vipers, African rock pythons, monitor lizards, forest cobras, leopard tortoises and boomslangs etc. Their homes are also key attractions and are meticulously designed to house each of them.
What activities can you do at the Reptile Village Entebbe?
With an assortment of amphibians and reptiles, the main activity done at the Reptile Village in Entebbe is watching them. Majority of the animals are harmless or non-venomous therefore you will be allowed to touch some selected few. Photographing the animals is also another way of enjoying your time at the Uganda Reptile Village in Entebbe.
How much is a tour to the Reptile Village Entebbe?
A tour at the Uganda Reptile Village in Entebbe will cost you around $10 per person for that particular day.
Must-visit destinations near Uganda Reptile Village Entebbe?
Entebbe Botanical Gardens
This is one of the top destinations to visit near the Reptile Village in Entebbe. The Entebbe Botanical Gardens is situated at the shoreline of the great Lake Victoria. An exploration to this 0.4 km2 paradise provides plenty of flora and fauna to identify. Go and see diverse species of indigenous and exotic ornamental plants, trees, medicinal plants and plenty more.
Like any place with vegetation, the lovely gardens have attracted plenty of primates, mammals, reptiles, birds and insects. Take this opportunity seriously to sight plantain eaters, woodpeckers, hadada ibises, striated herons and black and white casqued hornbills etc. Primates to see are the Angolan colobus monkeys, Uganda mangabey and red-tailed monkeys etc.
Apart from the flora and fauna, the Entebbe Botanical Gardens offers picnicking grounds. This is an opportunity to escape the noisy cities to a place that is full of peace and nature. A walk a long the Lake Victoria shores is also good to offer relaxation while improving your physical fitness. Entrance fees to the Entebbe Botanical Gardens is 20,000 Uganda shillings per person.
Uganda Wildlife Conservation Educational Center
This is another destination situated in Entebbe a long the shares of Lake Victoria. This is where plenty of endangered animals are rescued and cared for. Some of the animals are reintroduced into their natural homes. Over 253 animals have been rescued by the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Educational Center. Some are available for public view.
Animals you will see at this destination includes lions, giraffes, ostriches, pythons, zebras, shoebills, vervet monkeys, serval cats and chimpanzees etc. You can also get experiential visits where you can be a keeper for a day. The premises are also used for picnicking and nature walks. The shores of Lake Victoria can be used for relaxation. Entrance costs $70 per person.
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
This is one of the best destinations near the Uganda Reptile Village in Entebbe. Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary is situated on the Island in Lake Victoria. This is a haven for orphaned chimpanzees. You will view the lovely great apes and see how they interact outside their natural homes. The cost of seeing them is $365 per person for the day.
At Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, you can also volunteer to nurture the chimpanzees and raise awareness about their conservation. A nature walk in the forest is also another fun activity done at the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary. A boat ride to the Island is the only way to access the place, which is enjoyable as well.
