Uganda Travel Guide (East Africa/Africa)

Introduction to Uganda

Uganda is a landlocked country located in East Africa. It is characterized by its lush green landscapes, diverse wildlife, and warm and welcoming people. Uganda is known as the “pearl of Africa” for its exceptional beauty and natural resources such as Lake Victoria, the River Nile, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and the Rwenzori Mountains.

List of Places to Visit in Uganda

Here are some of the top tourist destinations in Uganda:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Uganda Museum
Kasubi Tombs
Ndere Cultural Centre
Namugongo Martyrs Shrine
Kabaka’s Palace
Bahai Temple

Natural Attractions of Uganda: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Rwenzori Mountains National Park
Murchison Falls National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Kibale National Park
Kidepo Valley National Park
Lake Bunyonyi

Hiking/Biking Routes of Uganda

Uganda offers some great hiking and biking routes. Some of the best include:

Mount Elgon
Sipi Falls
Rwenzori Mountains
Entebbe Botanical Gardens
Kapchorwa

Best Things to Do in Uganda: Activities and Tours

Gorilla trekking
Chimpanzee tracking
Wildlife safaris
Nile river rafting
Night game drives
Forest walks
Bird watching

Week-Long Itinerary for Uganda

Here’s a sample one-week itinerary for Uganda:

Day	Activity
1	Arrival and Transfer to Kampala
2	Visit Uganda Museum, Kasubi Tombs, and Ndere Cultural Centre
3	Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park for game drive and boat ride on the Kazinga Channel
4	Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park
5	Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
6	Visit Lake Bunyonyi for a boat ride and sightseeing
7	Transfer to Kampala for departure

Food and Drink Scene of Uganda

Ugandan cuisine is heavily influenced by traditional African cooking styles and ingredients such as maize flour, beans, groundnuts, and bananas. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Ugali – a cornmeal porridge typically served with stews and sauces.
Matoke – steamed green bananas often served with a groundnut or peanut sauce.
Luwombo – a dish of steamed meat or fish, served in banana leaves with vegetables and spices.
Rolex – a Ugandan breakfast dish of scrambled eggs, vegetables, and spices wrapped in a chapati.

Local Beverages

Waragi – a gin-like alcoholic beverage typically made from bananas.
Tamarind juice – a refreshing drink made from tamarind fruit.
Bushera – a fermented millet or sorghum drink.

Where to Stay in Uganda: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Uganda offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit any budget, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some top picks:

Serena Hotels
Kampala Serena Hotel
Sheraton Kampala Hotel
Wildwaters Lodge
Mweya Safari Lodge
Red Chilli Hideaway

What to Buy in Uganda: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Uganda has a variety of locally made souvenirs and products that make great gifts for friends and family back home. Here are some top picks:

Arts and crafts made from local materials like bark cloth and banana fibers.
Kikoy – a traditional wraparound skirt/scarf.
Coffee, tea, and cocoa.
Handmade baskets and mats.
Traditional musical instruments, such as drums and xylophones.

Local Culture and Customs of Uganda

Uganda has a rich cultural heritage and traditions rooted in the different tribes that make up the country. Some of the most notable cultural practices include:

Traditional dance and music.
Storytelling.
Naming ceremonies.
Initiation ceremonies.
Bride price payments.

Best Time to Visit Uganda

The best time to visit Uganda is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February. During these months, the weather is generally dry and pleasant, making it easier to enjoy outdoor activities and wildlife safaris.

Do’s and Don’ts of Uganda

Do:

Dress conservatively and respect local customs and traditions.
Try the local food and drink.
Learn some basic Swahili phrases.
Respect wildlife and their habitats.
Support local businesses and communities.

Don’t:

Engage in public displays of affection.
Take photos without asking for permission first.
Disrespect religious sites and ceremonies.
Purchase or consume illegal drugs.
Engage in illegal wildlife trade or trafficking.

Safety and Health

Safety in Uganda

Uganda is generally a safe country to travel in, but like any destination, there are some things to keep in mind while exploring. Here are a few tips to stay safe:

Avoid walking alone at night.
Be cautious of petty crime, such as pickpocketing.
Avoid large crowds and political demonstrations.
Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

Health in Uganda

Before traveling to Uganda, it’s important to consult with a medical professional about vaccinations and preventive measures to protect yourself from various diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, and typhoid. It’s also advisable to drink bottled water and avoid street food to prevent food-borne illnesses.

Getting to Uganda: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Uganda

Entebbe International Airport
Kigali International Airport
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport

Bus Stations Near Uganda

Kigali Bus Park
Akamba Bus Station
Kampala Bus Terminal

Other Options

Car hire and driving services
Train services

How to Get Around in Uganda

Uganda has many options for getting around, including buses, taxis, and car rentals. Some of the most popular locations offer guided tours so you won’t have to worry about transportation.

Where to Go Next from Uganda: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time and want to explore the surrounding regions, here are a few nearby destinations worth considering:

Rwanda
Kenya
Tanzania
Zanzibar

Conclusion

Uganda is a fascinating destination that offers a wealth of natural and cultural attractions. With its friendly people, rich culture, and incredible wildlife, it’s no wonder that it has been dubbed the “pearl of Africa.” From hiking and biking to gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris, Uganda has something for every traveler.