Uganda is a land locked country in East Africa. Lately thanks to greater political stability, tourism is becoming a booming industry. This is also thanks to its biodiversity and unblemished natural beauty. Popular excursions of which gorilla trekking is the most prominent have thrived. Working with government, more and more support structures have been put into play to facilitate this with conservation in mind. Book your next safari to this Garden of Eden and explore its breathtaking landscapes and unravel the many hidden gems within.
- In 2012 the popular travel book, Lonely Planet, selected Uganda as the top tourist destination to visit. It’s estimated one million visitors from across the world come every year.
- It’s estimated the gorilla population of Uganda is around 750. They can be viewed in both Bwindi and Mhahinga National Parks.
- The famous British WW2 politician and regular traveler to Africa, Winston Churchill, referred to Uganda as “The Pearl Of Africa” as a compliment to it’s natural beauty.
- The bicycle is the most common form of transport in Uganda. It’s estimated nearly 70% of the population use them regularly to commute.
- In terms of size, Uganda can fit into the US state of Oregan but has more than 10 times it’s population.
TOP 5 UGANDA HIGHLIGHTS
- MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK See the longest river in Africa, the Nile explode through a narrow gorge and become a placid river upon whose banks fauna and flora thrive.
- KIBALE NATIONAL PARK Located in the south of the country, this lush green forest is home to one of the largest wild chimpanzee populations in the world.
- QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK Uganda’s largest and most visited National Park. With over 95 species of mammals and 600 species of birds, it’s a popular safari stop.
- BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST NATIONAL PARK Located on the rim of the Rift Valley, with mist covered hillsides and over 400 species of plants. It’s here that you’ll find about half the worlds population of mountain gorilla’s.
- LAKE MUTANDA A small fresh water lake in the southern Kisoro District. Offering stunning lakeside views of unspoiled green rolling hill sides, one can be forgiven for thinking you’re in Switzerland. With it’s close proximity to Bwindi, it makes a great post gorilla trek retreat.
TIPS FOR TRAVELING UGANDA
CURRENCY Ugandan shilling (UGX) is the local currency. The US Dollar is the most prevalent of foreign currencies used as a form of payment. Credit cards can only be used in the capital city, Kampala at major hotels. ATM’s are found in the capital city as well.
CLIMATE Uganda has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 21-25°C (70- 77°F), apart from in the mountainous areas, which are much cooler; the top of Mount Elgon is often covered with snow. The hottest months are December to February.
WHAT TO PACK As most people come to Uganda to either go on safari, gorilla trek or a combination of both, it’s appropriate to pack accordingly. Light weight, cotton earth toned clothing for safaris with long sleeve shirts for those who burn easily. A warm jacket or fleece is recommended for cooler mornings and evenings. For gorilla trekking, hiking boots, water proof clothing and dry bag sealants for valuable like camera’s is recommended. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Pack a costume as most lodges have a pool.
PEAK HOLIDAY SEASON June to September and December to February are considered the best times to visit.
