PEOPLE AND ANIMALS

We have just spent 3 night in  a classic Safari Lodge called Mweya.  We are headed this am after breakfast for Bwindi National Park.i am not expecting wifi availability for days, and maybe not until end of trip, but will keep posting as I get a chance and send later.  Uganda is physically  diverse and each area we have visited is inhabited by different types of birds and animals. Ndali was temperate rain forest with many primates, and of course, the chimps.  The last 3 days we have seen Lions that sleep in trees(to get away from tse flys) elephants with enormous tusks, hippos,,crocodiles.  Bwindi area is the home of the Mountain Gorillas, and the main focus of this trip. The mountain gorilla have beenkilled by  poachers  and locals alike.  Local farmers have traditionally killed these beautiful animals because they get into the crops, and crops are the only food available in this area.  Education is changing things, and tourism is bringing money to the area, and changing the way the locals see their livelyhood.  Even though Steve and I are easily capable of carrying our own backpack on the Mountain Gorilla hike, we are strongly advised to "hire" a porter...i.e. farmer, to add $$$ to the local economy.  

I will post more about local customs we have seen and food, and people.  I had never realized the diversity that Uganda has.  We have felt very safe everywhere. The Ugandans, as a whole are extremely courteous, modest, VERY friendly, and kind.  They have some wonderful customs to make others feel welcome and comfortable.  The country is peaceful now, and changing as tourists discouver the biodiversity and beauty.  I hope this doesn't change their country personality.  The food has been good and fresh and basic. Everything  everywhere is grown locally with out even fertilizer.  It is literally "stored" in the ground until pulled out to eat.  plaintains and bananas are a huge staple and we have them cooked some way every mean.  Potaos are always served boiled or roasted. Fresh greens and spinach at every meal.  Chapati  bread (introduced by the Indian population) is always served.  Condiments are few, but usually sauces made with peanuts.  Peanuts(whichnthey call "ground nuts") are everywhere.  Tomatoes are a huge crop, along with tea, and wonderful Ugandan coffee.  We have eaten everything served, even the lettuce, and grasshoppers, which are a delicasiy especially in the rural areas. Nothing is spicey. It is a diet centered around vegetbales and starches like maize and manioc..sp.

So I need to finish packing, send this and hit the road again.  Catch us later!