Usually recognized internationally and given accolades in the tourism area, Uganda is the pearl of Africa and very gifted by nature. Uganda is located in east Africa and most people do not know much about it except the Idi Amin rule when he expelled the Indians and other foreigners in the country.
The truth is that Uganda has a lot and so much more to offer to those interested in exploring more about this beautiful country. On a safari in Uganda, you have a lot to see from the rare mountain gorillas to small unique wildlife! Here are some of the facts you did not know about Uganda.
It’s a Home To The Rare Mountain Gorillas
The mountain gorilla population in the world today is estimated at 900 but half of that population resides in Bwindi impenetrable forest located in southwestern Uganda. Mountain gorillas are apes with about 95% of their DNA similar to human beings meaning that their major characteristics are similar to human beings. Going for mountain gorilla safaris in Bwindi impenetrable offers unforgettable wildlife experiences. A tourist to Bwindi is assured of seeing the mountain gorillas as well as other major wildlife attractions in the forest. Mountain gorillas in Uganda can also be trekked in Mgahinga gorilla national park also located in southwestern Uganda.
It’s The Source Of The Great River Nile
The Great River Nile the longest river in the world starts its journey to the Mediterranean Sea from Uganda at Jinja. The Nile at Jinja moves out of lake Victoria, the third largest lake in the world and flows over hard rocks forming a number of rapids, which are used, as grounds for white water rafting one of the most adventurous tourist activities. Those interested in exploring more about this river can go for boat cruises to the source of the Nile which also gives them an opportunity to encounter some wildlife species especially the birds.
River Nile forms a number of magnificent tourism attractions like the great Murchison falls that forms a permanent rain ball as well as the Nile delta as the Nile pours into lake Albert. Both the falls and the Nile delta are situated in Murchison falls national park and can be toured by tourists on boat cruises.
Diverse Cultures
Uganda is among the countries on earth with diverse cultural practices among the people. The country has over 56 tribes each tribe having its own unique customs and practices. Learning about the different cultures in Uganda introduces one to unique cuisines, traditional dances and ways o dressing. One of the most unique tribe in Uganda is the Bagisu tribe whose members annually engage in circumcision ceremonies to transform boys to manhood. The circumcision is done in a public gathering and the one being circumcised is expected not to show of fear as a sign of courage. While on a tour in this beautiful country, learning about the local people’s culture is something incredible you should not surely miss.
It’s A Birder’s Number One Destination
The pearl of Africa has a number of bird species in wetlands and all of the 10 national parks the country has. One can easily sight various birds while on nature walks, on boat trips and even while on game drives. Some of the birds sighted in Uganda include the shoebill stork that usually live in the swampy areas, hammerkop, skimmers, fish eagles, king fishers, Turacos, African blue flycatchers, hadada ibis, crown cranes and many others.
Birders can never regret having visited Uganda as they come across some of the bird species that are endemic to the country.
It’s A Home To Various Savanna Wild Animals
Uganda has a number of savanna wild animals that include the elephants, white rhinos, buffaloes, Nile crocodiles, hippos, zebras, Johnson’s hartebeests, Oribi, giraffes and many others. Tourists on game drives and boat cruises and many others can see most of the animals.
Getting Around Uganda
5 best ways to get around Uganda: Getting to your destination safely, comfortably and at a right time is very key while on Uganda safari. Different attractions or destinations are located in various parts of the country mostly in the remote areas and getting there requires the right transport means. There are different ways that tourists/visitors can get around Uganda but here are some of them.
Hire a car
Rental cars are essential and offer the best option for any visitor on Uganda safari to get to their destinations. If you are looking for comfort, Uganda car rentals have you sorted either on a self drive or driver guided. There are cars available for everyone on a Uganda safari regardless of your budget or how long you plan to be in Uganda-the Pearl of Africa. The beauty about hiring a car in Uganda is that you are guaranteed of ultimate freedom, privacy and comfort while on a road trip.
Private taxi cab
You can also contact the many taxi cabs-use the phone app/book in person and you can be dropped off to your destination. The taxi cabs rates usually range from Uganda shillings 10000 to 30000 or more depending on your location.
Use public means
The commonest option for getting around Kampala or Uganda as a whole is by using public transportation. There are many Mini Van taxis or buses in Kampala, Entebbe, Jinja, Mbarara and they connect to different parts of Uganda-East, West, North or South. Though public means is often regarded as the most uncomfortable and unreliable, it is the cheapest of all means for you to get around Kampala or any part of Uganda.
Boda Boda
Though risky, boda boda/motorcycle means are amazingly the quickest alternative if you want to beat the jam in Kampala. You may opt the ordinary cyclists or make the best use of Safe boda or Uber. Uber/Safe boda have apps which you can book your ride with at ease and interestingly, cyclists ride with some keenness.
Walk/Foot
The most enjoyable means and also the perfect way to explore Kampala Capital or any of Uganda’s destinations is by foot. Uganda is a beautiful destination in Africa with warm welcoming/hospitable people and you don’t need to worry in case you got lost, you can be guided.
However, avoid walking in areas where demonstrations are while in any part of Uganda. Also, be careful with your valuable items-phones, laptops etc especially while on the streets of Kampala.