In 2013, Uganda made National Geographic’s list of top 20 Must-See destinations. In 2012, Uganda was voted the Number 1 destination by the world’s most utilized travel guide, Lonely Planet. Centuries ago Winston Churchill coined Uganda the Pearl of Africa. In 1609, he made this proclamation:
“The kingdom of Uganda is a fairy-tale. You climb up … and at the end there is a wonderful new world. The scenery is different, the vegetation is different, the climate is different, and, most of all, the people are different from anything elsewhere to be seen in the whole range of Africa … I say: ‘Concentrate on Uganda’. 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.” (monitor.co.ug)
Today, Uganda is overshadowed as a travel destination by neighboring Kenya and Tanzania. The unique attraction that Uganda’s neighbors do not possess is the mountain gorilla. It is also known for its lush greenery and raw territory. If you’re a birdwatcher, it is a gem, with over 1000 bird species recorded. Even though the country is more affordable and accessible than its destination competition, it is perhaps not as luxurious in its accommodation of tourists. The Uganda Railway also being known as The Lunatic Express probably does not help.
We know that popularity is not necessarily an indicator of quality. Uganda has a lot to offer and we are highlighting 3 of its glorious attractions for you.
1. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: This “Place of Darkness’ is one of the most biologically diverse places on earth, home to half of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas. The National Park offers Gorilla Treks, with several options for accommodation in the region. The cost of a Gorilla Safari ranges between $1000 – $2000, depending on the level of luxury desired.
2. Murchison Falls National Park: The Park is located in Western Uganda and borrows its name from the Murchison Falls. The Falls are waters on the River Nile, which originates in Uganda. The park is known to be the oldest protected area in Uganda. The wildlife at the park is an attraction. Buffalos, lions, elephants and leopards are to be found, with the once extinct rhino only now being re-introduced after extinction.
3. Queen Elizabeth National Park: This is the park most visited in Uganda. It is also located in Western parts. It is home to hippopotami, leopards, lions, elephants and chimpanzee and over 500 species of birds. It is a huge attraction for birdwatchers.
Note: The best time to visit Uganda is during the dry months, between December and March, and between June and September.
