Uganda
Uganda
The Pearl of Africa
About Uganda
Uganda is where the vast East African savannah meets the dense West African jungle, creating a magnificent fusion of landscapes and wildlife.
It is a land of staggering biological and geographical diversity, a lush country that seems to hold the best of the continent within its compact borders.
The journey here is one of constant discovery. It is tracking a family of mountain gorillas through the mist-shrouded Bwindi Impenetrable Forest one day, and watching lions climb trees (a rare sight indeed) on the sun-drenched plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park the next.
It is standing in awe as the entire Nile River funnels through a seven-metre (30ft) gap at Murchison Falls, creating the world’s most powerful waterfall. It is marvelling at the vastness of Lake Victoria. It is seeking out chimpanzees and colobus monkeys in the primate capital of Kibale National Park, and paddling past hippos at the source of the Nile in Jinja.
Unlike the vast, arid landscapes of some of its neighbours, Uganda is a tapestry of deep greens and brilliant blues – a land of great lakes, ancient rainforests and snow-capped mountains, all brimming with life.
Top travel tips for Uganda
Did you know
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to almost half of the world’s mountain gorilla population.
Secure primate permits early: gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits are in extremely high demand, and limited in number. They should be the very first thing you book, often a year in advance, as your entire itinerary will be built around these dates
Prepare for long journeys: while smaller than its neighbours, Uganda’s roads can be rough and travel between parks is slow. For longer distances, consider domestic flights to save time and gain a stunning aerial perspective of the landscape
Pack for a rainforest and a safari: include waterproof gear, sturdy hiking boots and gardening gloves for gorilla trekking in the damp forests, alongside lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing for hot game drives on the savannah
Bring US dollars, new ones: dollars are the preferred currency for tourism. It is crucial to bring bills printed in 2009 or later, as older notes are often rejected. Small denominations are essential for tips and local purchases
Don’t skip the health prep: malaria is prevalent in most parts of Uganda, including all major national parks. Consult a travel doctor for anti-malarial medication and other vaccinations
For magnificence, for variety of form and colour, for profusion of brilliant life – bird, insect, reptile, beast – for vast scale, Uganda is truly the Pearl of Africa.”
