Uganda Travel Guide by Outlook Publishing

UGANDA

Uganda

Uganda, known as ‘the Pearl of Africa’, is a stunningly diverse country in East Africa famous for its rich landscapes, abundant wildlife, and warm hospitality

WRITER: ED BUDDS | PROJECT MANAGER: JOSEPH PERFITT

Situated in East Africa, Uganda boasts a plethora of diverse landscapes including volcanic hills, majestic mountains, and numerous lakes.

Positioned at an average altitude of 900 metres (m) above sea level, its natural beauty includes the magisterial Rwenzori Mountains, Lake Victoria, and abundant flora and fauna.

A biodiversity hotspot, the nation is home to the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinos – as well as mountain gorillas and over 1,000 bird species.

Culturally, meanwhile, Uganda boasts over 56 ethnic groups, each with unique traditions, languages, and diverse ways of life.

The current population, estimated at around 47 million

people, is a true reflection of Africa’s multicultural richness.

Uganda’s cultural fabric is woven from the deep histories, unique customs, and shared values of these various communities, making it a fascinating destination for those seeking to experience Africa’s vast diversity.

Furthermore, it is a multilingual nation, with English as the official language and Swahili as the native. However, there are over 40 others spoken across the country, reflecting its broad ethnic influences.

Luganda, for example, is spoken by the Baganda people and widely adopted in the central region, often used in business and daily transactions, whilst other prominent languages include Runyankole in the west, Lusoga in the east, and Acholi in the north.

Regarding the realm of culinary delights, Uganda’s cuisine is as diverse as its people, with staple foods including matoke (steamed plantains) and posho (maize meal).

Boasting a tropical climate, Uganda is suitable for yearround travel as the weather varies by altitude, with cooler temperatures in the highlands and warmer conditions in low-lying areas.

For thrill-seekers, those who visit will discover an adrenaline-filled playground; whether it’s white-water rafting on the River Nile, hiking the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains, or bungee jumping over stunning scenery, Uganda offers a wide range of activities to keep the adventurous spirit alive.

Elsewhere, Uganda’s football culture is vibrant, with passionate fans, competitive leagues, and a national football team, known as the Uganda Cranes, that has a storied history.

Uganda will soon be at the heart of African football in 2027 as a co-host of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON), the continent’s flagship football tournament, along with Kenya and Tanzania.

This major event is expected to attract football enthusiasts from across the continent and beyond, making Uganda a prime destination for sports tourists.

With its unspoiled wilderness, vibrant cities, and deep cultural heritage, Uganda offers a captivating experience for every traveller.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park In Focus

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park lies in Southwest Uganda on the edge of the Rift Valley. Its mist-covered hillsides are blanketed by one of Uganda’s oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests, which dates back over 25,000 years and contains almost 400 species of plants.

MORE FAMOUSLY, BWINDI

Impenetrable National Park protects an estimated 459 mountain gorillas –roughly half of the world’s population – including several habituated groups, which can be tracked, providing a rare and incredible opportunity to witness them in their natural habitat.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its incredible biodiversity and exists as a sanctuary for these

incredible animals.

Gorilla trekking is available all year-round in Uganda, however the best time to see these magnificent creatures up close is during the dry seasons from June to August and December to February.

Hike through dense jungle, guided by local experts, and spend a magical hour or two with habituated gorilla families, a truly humbling and awe-inspiring but also physically

challenging experience for any nature and animal enthusiast.

The Mubare gorilla group was the first to be habituated for tourism in Uganda in April 1993, opening the door to sustainable gorilla trekking experiences in the nation.

Today, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park boasts 25 habituated gorilla groups, with nine available for tourism and one dedicated to research.

KAMPALA In Focus

Uganda’s cities blend traditional African culture with modern influences. In these vibrant hubs, you’ll find everything from historic landmarks and cultural sites to modern infrastructure, bustling markets, and cutting-edge businesses.

AS BOTH UGANDA’S capital and its largest city, Kampala is the political, economic, and cultural heartbeat of the nation.

Nestled serenely on a series of rolling hills near the shores of Lake Victoria, Kampala is a dynamic and youthful city that gets its name from the majestic impala, a mediumsized African antelope that used to roam the jungles where the capital stands proudly today.

Located just 40 kilometres from Entebbe International Airport (EBB), Kampala will amaze you with its beauty, culture, and glowing hospitality before you venture to the rest of the country.

This dynamic and diverse city boasts countless attractions including the Uganda Museum, Kasubi Tombs, Kabaka’s Lake, Bulange, Uganda National Cultural Centre, as well as various religious sites, shopping malls, and decadent night clubs.

Known for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants offering a taste of Uganda’s modern entertainment scene, Kampala is also a hub for business and commerce, with multinational companies, local businesses, and diplomatic missions headquartered here.

RECOMMENDS

Eat:

FOR A TRANQUIL AND TASTEFUL EXPERIENCE...

La Cabana Restaurant provides a warm atmosphere and offers a relaxing oasis that is a world removed from the hustle and bustle of Kampala’s city centre.

FOR WINING AND DINING...

Cantine DiVino is a premium steakhouse renowned for its exceptional fine meats, Italian delicacies, and a unique global wine selection.

Do:

FOR THE PLACE OF MANY LITTLE BIRDS...

Lake Bunyoni is a magical, stunning lake that attracts tourists with its spectacular scenery, 29 unique islands, and amazing community tours.

Located in Southwest Uganda between the districts of Kisoro and Kabale, Lake Bunyoni is the deepest crater lake in the whole of Africa.

There’s plenty to do at the lake, including zip lining, mountain biking, canoeing, swimming, and much more.

FOR MOUNTAIN HIKING AND TREKKING...

Rwenzori Mountains National Park invites explorers to traverse the Rwenzori Mountains on a thrilling adventure through diverse landscapes, from rainforests to glaciers.

Climb to Margherita Peak, the highest point of Mount Stanley in the Rwenzori Mountains, with stunning alpine meadows, glaciers, and waterfalls along the way – a unique trek into one of the most remote, pristine mountain ranges on Earth.

Sleep:

FOR RELAXED AMBIENCE...

Sheraton Kampala Hotel is a luxurious 5-star hotel in the Ugandan capital, 45 minutes from EBB and five minutes away from Kampala’s central business district. Known for its heritage and amazing nightlife, Sheraton Kampala Hotel welcomes guests with a relaxed atmosphere and a dazzling array of upscale amenities.

FOR ELEGANT STYLE AND RANGE OF 5-STAR AMENITIES...

Kampala Serena Hotel

FOR OPTIMAL COMFORT IN A SPECTACULAR SETTING... Mahogany Springs

OPULENCE IN THE HEART OF KAMPALA

Kampala Serena Hotel is a sanctuary of refined comfort, where modern elegance meets the warmth of Ugandan hospitality. Set amidst lush tropical gardens and tranquil water features in the heart of the city, the hotel features 186 beautifully designed rooms and suites, five exceptional dining venues, a world-class Maisha Spa and Health Club, and outstanding conference and event facilities. Whether for business or leisure, guests are treated to impeccable service and a rich cultural ambience that celebrates Uganda’s heritage, ensuring every stay is truly unforgettable.

Call: (+256) 751 705 457 | Email: sales.kampala@serenahotels.com www.serenahotels.com

Kampala Serena Hotel kampalaSerenaHotel KampalaSerena

www.mahoganysprings.com info@mahoganysprings.com

Luxury Lodge

Buhoma, Bwindi Located - 2 minutes from Gorilla Tracking Headquarters

Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is, by surface area, the world’s second-largest freshwater lake and one of the African Great Lakes. Named after Queen Victoria and nestled between Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, the lake is integral to the prosperity of millions of East Africans, serving as a vital water source. Take a voyage to Africa’s most stunning and spectacular historical landmark.

Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre

The Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre offers visitors a fun and exciting way and learn about the country’s animals, including lions, giraffes, elephants, and a large number of bird species. Originally founded to accommodate confiscated and injured wildlife and look after orphaned animals, it serves both as a conservation centre and a place of education, making it ideal for families and wildlife enthusiats alike.

Entebbe Botanical Gardens

These lush gardens are a haven for nature lovers, featuring a plethora of indigenous plants, trees, and birds. Located along the shores of Lake Victoria, Entebbe Botanical Gardens is also known as the filming location for the original Tarzan. Visitors can enjoy guided tours to learn about the region’s fabulous flora and fauna or enjoy a simply experience a peaceful stroll under the canopy of towering trees.

Getting There and Around

EBB IS THE main gateway to Uganda and only international airport in the country.

Once on the ground, Uganda offers various transportation options, from boda-bodas to buses and private cars. Whilst the former are a convenient way to get around cities, ensure you wear a helmet and select registered providers.

For longer journeys, hiring a private driver or using a taxi service is a safe and comfortable choice, whilst 4x4 vehicles are recommended for road trips, especially when visiting national parks or remote areas. Elsewhere, boats are available between Entebbe and the Ssese Islands on Lake Victoria, with guided tours also available on the many other Great African Lakes found in Uganda.

The BEST meals, drinks and service in the perfect wild ambiance!

Buhoma Gorilla Camp is a spacious ecofriendly mid-range Lodge, in a forest patch 300 meters after turn off to Ride 4a Woman, 5 minutes’ drive to Buhoma gorilla tracking briefing point in the northern sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

The Lodge was opened back in 2019 by Magezi Richard family with passion to conserve nature; built eco cabins enshrined in a forest with a river flowing through that makes nature sounds so unique and worth 2-3 nights stay of relaxation and comfort. Currently there are 11 cottages (with 1 family cottage)