Uganda presents tourists with natural wonders with great lakes and towering mountains. Whilst Uganda has had a turbulent history tourism continues to increase primarily drawn by the diverse wildlife that inhabits the country's mountains and forests. Notably, Uganda houses half of the world's population of mountain gorillas
Things to know before visit Uganda
Uganda has a tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 21-25 degrees Celsius but in the mountainous region it is cooler. There are two dry seasons in Uganda- between March – June and September - December. In the south there are two wet seasons - between mid-September to November and March to May.
The capital city of Uganda, Kampala has an ethereal charm. It has a good blend of modernity and old world charm that comes across beautifully through the hills dotted with traditional red-tile villas and the contemporary skyscrapers seen in the urban center. Some of the attractions in the city include; Gaddafi National Mosque, thatched relics at the Kasubi Tombs, Kabaka’s Palace and Ba’hai Temple. A visit to the local markets in Uganda is also an interesting sight. Go to Owino Market - a chaotic market place but here you can find the most gorgeous African print fabrics and souvenirs. The crafts market on Buganda road is also a great place to find local artifacts and handicrafts.
Oft termed as the ‘place of many little birds’, it is the prettiest lake in the country and also one of the deepest lakes in Africa. With 29 islands and terraced hillsides on the periphery, it makes for an idyllic place to unwind. There are many remote but pretty places to stay here on the distant islands with only birds for company. The best way to explore the islands is in a boat.
A safari around the Kibale National Park is worth every penny spent. The dense forests and the wetlands are home to wild chimpanzees and many other species of monkeys. You can see these majestic simians of Africa in their natural habitat amidst thick forests. Besides an array of mammals, there are 375 bird species found here and also 250 species of Butterflies.There are many trek and safaris planned here including an exclusive Chimpanzee Trekking, the Crater Lake Trail and more- a great way to explore the national park!
The largest national park in the country, Murchison Falls National Park sits on the shores of Lake Albert. It is home to lions, elephants, giraffes and more. The Lake Albert Delta has some rare shoebill storks as well. The biggest attraction here is the place where the Nile crashes through a gorge over an incline of over 40 meters- a sight not to be missed!
Located on the banks of Lake Victoria, Entebbe is a beautiful, verdant town that was the country capital in the early years of British rule. It is a great introduction to Uganda with beautiful beaches to relax and Lake Victoria and its islands to explore. Entebbe is also a birder’s paradise with rare species found at the Botanical Gardens, along the lake and in the forests. From Entebbe you can go for many nature trails and treks to explore the greener and deeper parts of the region and be one with nature.
Travel Advisory: For the latest information and advice on safety and entry requirements please consult your travel agent well in advance of your departure and visit the following government website:
Department of Foreign affairs and trade www.dfat.gov.au
Smart Traveler website www.smartraveler.gov.au
Electricity: While traveling to Uganda it is advisable to carry an international power plug adapter with multiple plug configurations. The standard voltage is at 220V and the frequency is 50 Hz.