Hoopoe African Expeditions is a Ugandan-owned safari company creating tailor-made journeys through Uganda and Rwanda.
Founded by lifelong friends and safari guides Sam Bamwesigye and Hamidu Juuko, Hoopoe grew from a shared love of wild places and a passion for connecting people to the heart of Africa.
Born and raised in Uganda, Sam and Ham (as they are commonly known) have spent more than 25 years guiding travellers through the region. Their knowledge of the land, wildlife, and culture shapes every safari we design.
What Our Guests Experience
Our guests don’t just see Uganda and Rwanda - they LIVE and EXPERIENCE everything. We create journeys that bring you up close to Africa's most remarkable treasures:
- Natural wildernesses - Vast savannahs, misty forests, and hidden corners where wildlife still roams free.
- Primates in their element - The humbling encounter with mountain gorillas, playful chimpanzees, and other primates in their forest homes.
- Culture, first hand - Meeting local communities, learning traditions, and sharing stories across cultures in a way that feels authentic and personal.
Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, with family, or in a small group, we design safaris that are personal, flexible, and built around your interests and budget.
Why Travel With Us
- Tailor-made safaris. Every trip is built from scratch to match your needs.
- Local expertise. We’ve explored every corner of Uganda and Rwanda, from popular parks to off-the-beaten-path gems.
- Trusted professionals. As founding members and current board members of the Uganda Safari Guides Association (USAGA), we uphold the highest standards of guiding and hospitality.
- Hands-on care. From the first conversation to the first farewell [of many], we take care of every detail so you can focus entirely on the adventure.
Our Commitment to Sustainability
For us, travel is not just about today’s journey - it’s about protecting tomorrow. We design our safaris to make a positive impact on both the earth and its people:
- Conservation first. We support the protection of wildlife and habitats so future generations can also experience Africa’s natural wonders.
- Community support. We work with local communities, ensuring that tourism directly benefits the people who live closest to the wild places our guests visit.
- Responsible choices. From eco-friendly lodges to low-impact activities, we make decisions that reduce harm and maximize benefit.
Sustainability is not a nice slogan for us; it is how we travel, guide, and live.
Our Values
- Professional Service
We take our role seriously — handling every detail so that your focus remains on enjoying the journey. - Sustainable Travel
We are committed to protecting nature and uplifting communities. - Community
Human connection is at the core of what we do — from our own friendship to the bonds we help create between guests and the people of Uganda and Rwanda.
Our Promise
When you travel with Hoopoe African Expeditions, you’re not just a client - you’re our guest. We welcome you into our world, share our stories, and guide you into the heart of Africa with care, respect, and passion.
With every aspect of your trip with us, we will give our best. And at the end of your safari, we hope that both your life and our own is changed in a positive way - the kind that changes the world.