Winston Churchill once called the East African country of Uganda the „Pearl of Africa,“ and this designation is well deserved. Uganda boasts very fertile land and many areas where greenery and blossoms thrive. The scenic beauty and diversity make Uganda a popular travel destination for tourists.
A perfect example of Uganda’s stunning landscapes is the Murchison Falls in the northwest of the country. Between lush green forests, the waters of the Nile plunge through a gorge about 40 meters deep, creating an unforgettable spectacle. Those wishing to experience this natural wonder up close during their holiday in Uganda can take a boat trip near the falls.
As a specialist in Uganda tours, we offer guided nature trips in small groups or tailor-made private trips for any budget. In addition to classic Big Five safaris, we also organize the famous gorilla tracking in Uganda’s dense rainforests.
The Queen Elizabeth National Park in southern Uganda is one of the most famous national parks in Africa and among the most beautiful in the world. Idyllically located along Lake Edward and Lake George, as well as the Rwenzori Mountains, this national park is a true natural spectacle. The diversity of flora and fauna in this region of Uganda is breathtaking. Due to its varied landscapes, ranging from lakes, swamps, rainforests, and savannas to rocky craters, this area has become home to a wide variety of animals and plants.
A visit to the capital city, Kampala, is also a must when spending a holiday in Uganda. In addition to the Uganda National Museum, the numerous old places of worship of different religions, and the Kabaka Tombs of the Buganda kings, you can experience the vibrant activity of an emerging African metropolis in the markets and streets.
Tourists seeking a physical challenge can join trekking tours from Kisoro to the areas around Mount Muhavura and Mount Mgahinga, where you can observe wild gorillas up close, or go hiking and mountain climbing on Mount Elgon from Mbale.
For those looking to relax, tours to the hot springs of Bundibugyo near Fort Portal or a trip to Entebbe to take a stroll through the Botanical Gardens are excellent choices.
Uganda is generally a safe country, and tourists can travel there without worries about their safety. However, increased caution is advised when traveling through Uganda’s northern and northeastern regions, as there are still occasional attacks by rebel groups in those areas.
The Republic of Uganda is located in the eastern part of the African continent. Lake Victoria forms the natural border between Uganda and its neighboring countries, Kenya and Tanzania.
In the north, the landlocked country borders Sudan, in the southwest Rwanda, and in the west the Democratic Republic of the Congo. On a map, one can see that the equator runs through the southern part of Uganda. From Lake Victoria up to the border with Sudan, the White Nile—also called the Victoria Nile—flows through the country. The highest point in Uganda is Mount Stanley in the Rwenzori Mountains, at 5,110 meters.
Uganda lies in the East Africa Time zone (EAT), which is two hours ahead of Central European Time. Since Uganda does not observe daylight saving time, the time difference during these months is only one hour.
The population of Uganda is currently around 33 million people. The population is made up of over 40 different ethnic groups. The largest among them are the Baganda, Banyankole, Acholi, and Langi. The official languages of Uganda are English and Swahili, and many indigenous languages are also spoken. The country is predominantly Christian, with only about 10% of the population being Muslim.
Uganda’s history after gaining independence from Britain in 1962 has been marked by dictatorships and civil wars. Milton Obote and Idi Amin instilled fear and terror for decades until former rebel leader Yoweri Museveni seized power in 1986. Since then, the situation in Uganda has largely stabilized. Museveni is also known for his successful HIV and AIDS policy, which made Uganda one of the few countries in Africa able to curb the spread of the deadly immunodeficiency disease.
Despite its fertile soils, Uganda remains one of the poorest countries in the world. The GDP is 511 US dollars per capita (2009). Over 80% of the population is engaged in agriculture, with most of them growing food solely for their own consumption. Uganda’s main export product is coffee, which is primarily grown in the climatically favorable southern part of the country.
Uganda Tourist Board:
P.O. Box 7211, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: (041) 34 21 96/7
Fax: (041) 34 21 88
E-Mail: utb@visituganda.com
Before traveling to Uganda, it is important to be aware of the entry requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Below are the key entry regulations for Uganda:
Visa Requirements
Passport Validity
Yellow Fever Vaccination
COVID-19 Requirements
Health Recommendations
Visa Extensions
Customs Regulations
Travel Insurance
Permits for Special Activities
Please check with your local Ugandan embassy or consulate for the most current entry requirements and travel advisories before your departure.
Uganda offers a rich and diverse culinary experience that reflects its cultural heritage and abundance of local ingredients. Below are some insights into food and drinks in Uganda:
Traditional Ugandan Cuisine
Fruits and Vegetables
Uganda’s fertile soil allows for a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Popular fruits include pineapples, mangoes, papayas, passion fruits, and jackfruit. Fresh vegetables such as amaranth, spinach, and okra are also widely available and form an essential part of the Ugandan diet.
Drinks
Dining Culture
Meals in Uganda are often communal, with families and friends gathering to share food. In rural areas, it is common to eat with your hands, particularly when enjoying dishes like matoke or posho. Hospitality is a key part of Ugandan culture, and visitors are often warmly invited to join in meals.
The diverse culinary landscape of Uganda, with its mix of traditional dishes and fresh ingredients, offers an authentic and delightful experience for those exploring the country.
Uganda has a tropical climate, which varies by region due to differences in altitude. The country experiences two main seasons: a dry season and a rainy season. Below is a summary of Uganda’s climate and the best times to visit:
Climate Overview
Best Time to Visit
Regional Climate Differences
Overall, Uganda is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit largely depends on the activities you wish to engage in. Whether you’re interested in trekking through lush rainforests, experiencing thrilling wildlife safaris, or exploring Uganda’s cultural heritage, planning your visit around the climate will help you make the most of your adventure.
Uganda is a country with diverse religious beliefs, reflecting its cultural diversity. The majority of the population is Christian, with Roman Catholic and Anglican being the largest denominations. Pentecostal and Evangelical churches are also widespread, reflecting the dynamic growth of Christianity in the country. Islam is the second-largest religion, with a significant minority of Ugandans practicing Sunni Islam.
In addition to the major religions, indigenous beliefs and traditions are still practiced by some communities, often blending with Christian or Islamic customs. Uganda’s religious diversity contributes to the cultural richness of the country, with people of different faiths coexisting peacefully.
Places of worship, such as mosques, churches, and shrines, are found throughout Uganda, and religious festivals and events are an integral part of Ugandan life. Visitors to Uganda have the opportunity to witness this religious diversity and participate in cultural events that provide insight into the nation’s beliefs and traditions.
Uganda has a variety of transportation options, ranging from public to private means of travel. Below is an overview of the different modes of transportation available in Uganda:
Road Traffic
Bus Services
Air Travel
Rail Transport
Water Transport
Traffic and Road Safety
Uganda offers a range of transportation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Whether you choose to travel by road, air, or water, understanding the available modes of transport will help you navigate the country more effectively and safely.
The official currency of Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). Below are some key details about using currency in Uganda:
When traveling in Uganda, it is always a good idea to have a mix of cash and card options for convenience. The Ugandan Shilling provides the best value for smaller purchases, while US Dollars are convenient for larger payments.
