destination uganda 2015-16
DESCRIPTION
Destination Uganda is the official publication of The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB). Published by Land & Marine Publications Ltd.TRANSCRIPT
CONTENTS
1
3 FOREWORDMore than ever reasons to visit wonderful Uganda
7 TOURISM COMMUNITIESA win-win for visitors and local people
13 EXPERIENCE UGANDA‘Pearl of Africa’ wins global praise
21 LOCATION UGANDA
23 FLYING UGANDATake your vacation to new heights
24 CENTRAL UGANDABuzzing capital
28 WESTERN UGANDAMajestic peaks, crater lakes and cool days
31 UGANDA FACT FILE
32 BWINDI AND SOUTH-WEST UGANDAAn animal encounter like no other
36 ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARKWildlife galore in a fabulous setting
40 MURCHISON FALLSWildlife of River Nile is pure magic
44 EASTERN & NORTHERN UGANDALand of fabulous peaks, forests and falls
48 JINJA AND THE NILEHigh-octane adventure starts here
51 UGANDA HOTEL OWNERS ASSOCIATION
Setting new standards of comfort and choice
52 UGANDA TOUR OPERATORS
Destination Uganda is the official publication of:
THE UGANDA TOURISM BOARD 42 Windsor Crescent, Kololo PO Box 7211, Kampala, Uganda Tel: +256 (414) 342 196/7 Fax: +256 (414) 342 188 www.visituganda.com
Published by:
LAND & MARINE PUBLICATIONS LTD 1 Kings Court, Newcomen Way Severalls Business Park, Colchester Essex, CO4 9RA, UK Tel: +44 (0)1206 752 902 Fax: +44 (0)1206 842 958 E-mail: [email protected] www.landmarine.com
Photographs kindly supplied by: Tertius Bune, Jennifer Krauser, Rajesh Advani (Global Interlink Travel Service Ltd), Vicki Brown, Red Chilli Hideaway Ltd, Nile River Explorers, UWA, Beatrice Tusiime, Simon Jones, Wim Kok (Matoke Tours), Adrift, Musiime P. Muramura, Stuart Cohen.
Printed by: Buxton Press
The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor nor of any other organisation associated with this publication.
No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions.
ISSN 1754-4793
©2014 Land & Marine Publications Ltd
More than ever
reasons to visit
wonderful Uganda
FOREWORD
3
The years 2013 and 2014 have been Uganda’s best in terms of tourism growth. After scooping many awards
in previous years, Uganda was declared Fifth Best Exhibitor at ITB Berlin in 2014.
Uganda has improved its infrastructure and
built more roads leading to tourist facilities,
hotels, resorts and lodging destinations.
The new management of Uganda Tourism
Board has carried out various initiatives in
marketing, promotion, branding, quality
assurance and product development. As a
result, our tourism industry has become the
nation’s number one foreign exchange earner,
hauling in US$ 1.4 billion in 2013 and attracting
over 1.2 million visitors.
The Government of Uganda has taken tourism
seriously, increasing budgets and spending
As a tourism destination, Uganda is blessed
with natural advantages. Located in the heart
of Africa, our country is rich in wildlife, nature,
culture, heritage and history. Its biological and
cultural diversity is unmatched for a country the
size of Great Britain or the US state of Oregon.
Then there’s our fantastic climate with year-
round average temperatures of 25-30C and the
friendliest people on the earth.
Uganda is home to the world’s largest popula-
tion of gorillas and other primates as well as a
range of other wildlife including the Big Five,
reptiles and 50 per cent of Africa’s bird and
butterfly species. Almost 40 per cent of its land
mass is covered by water, rivers and wetlands.
Uganda is home to the source of the River Nile
and the highest mountain range in Africa.
With over 16 international flights a day and
connections from many parts of the world,
Uganda is accessible by air, land and water. It is
a very secure country with modern amenities,
including top-rated accommodation and
first-class service, all in a peaceful, clean and
protected environment. And for those who
like to socialise and hit the night spots, there’s
nowhere quite like Kampala, the Ugandan
capital and African hub of entertainment.
Stephen AsiimweChief Executive Officer
Uganda Tourism Board
TOURISM COMMUNITIES
A win-win for visitors and
local people
7
Ever wondered where that dollar, pound or euro goes when you visit a destination? Used wisely, the
money you spend during your trip can have a huge impact on local communities and on the future of the country’s natural heritage.
For communities in and around Uganda’s
protected areas, well planned tourism can
create employment and improve livelihoods,
providing local people with an incentive to
defend and protect the ecosystems on which
they and tourism activities depend.
Working towards this goal is not an easy task.
There are many factors at play, including
conflicts between communities and parks,
leading to poaching and other illegal activities.
WELL-BEING
Communities need to benefit from the parks
that border them. By hiring local guides,
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TOURISM COMMUNITIES
THOUGHTFUL ADVICE
buying locally made crafts or participat-
ing in a community tourism experience, you
contribute directly to the well-being of that
community and encourage its support of
conservation.
HOW YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
• Forest walks conducted by Batwa Pygmy
guides in the Gorilla Highlands provide insights
into their traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle
while providing their families with income to
survive in the modern world.
• When you enter one of Uganda’s national
parks, 20 per cent of your entrance fee goes to
communities bordering the park.
• When five visitors learn how to weave
a basket with the Kikorongo Women’s
Group neighbouring Queen Elizabeth
National Park, they provide enough
money to sustain a local household for
two months.
• A visit to a manyatta (kraal) near Kotido
town in Karamoja helps the Red Cross to
provide medical services in this arid and
underdeveloped part of eastern Uganda.
8
• Ask permission before photographing or filming local residents
• Support businesses that follow environmentally and socially responsible tourism practices
• Use companies that hire local tour guides and use local services for a truly authentic experience
• Buy crafts made by local artisans and your money will go directly to the communities
• Avoid buying products made from threatened animal species or natural resources
• Keep to designated walking and driving trails. Leave only footprints or tyre marks and take only memories and pictures.
For more information visit: www.pearlsofuganda.org
We are an experienced tours and travel company
based in Uganda offering tailor-made safaris to
Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar.
All our safaris are built around the individual needs
and interests of our clients, offering them a rare
opportunity to appreciate the beauty and diversity
of the Pearl of Africa in great comfort and style.
Outstanding safari lodges
We also offer excellent accommodation at our own
distinctive lodges: Gorilla Safari Lodge in Bwindi,
Impenetrable Forest and Crater Safari Lodge near
Kibale Forest National Park.
Make your African dream come true(
‘Pearl of Africa’
wins global praise
EXPERIENCE UGANDA
13
During the two years since we celebrated 50 years of independ-
ence in 2012, Uganda has been honoured by a flurry of international awards and rec-ommendations.
This may be a consequence of the
publicity afforded by our favourite
50th birthday present, when the
publication Lonely Planet placed us
first in its ‘Best in Travel for 2012’ list.
Of course, it may just be a long-overdue
recognition of the progress made by Uganda’s
tourism sector over the past 25 years (our first
quarter-century of independence having been
characterised by sharp growing pains).
Another possibility is simply that word is
getting around that Uganda is a fresh, unspoilt
and safe safari destination, unblighted by mass
tourism and with an abundance of wildlife
species, historical cultures and a variety of
marvellously scenic landscapes.
Whatever the reason, the list of recent
accolades shows that Uganda is now firmly on
the map as a premier safari destination.
RENAISSANCE
When stability was restored to Uganda in 1986,
tourism activity was limited to the occasional
wary backpacker. It’s a very different situation
today, however. Facilities and services exist for
budget, middle-market and high-end visitors
who collectively generate the country’s main
internal source of foreign currency.
Irrespective of category, discerning visitors are
informed by the Bradt Travel Guide to Uganda,
a publication with a 20-year history that further
illustrates our tourism renaissance.
Back in 1994, writer Philip Briggs struggled
to complete 182 pages of large, generously
spaced text for this book’s first edition. Fewer
than 4,000 copies were sold.
EXPERIENCE UGANDA
15
Fast-forwarding to 2013, the challenge for
co-author Andrew Roberts was to limit the
seventh edition (by now with considerably
smaller print) to 550 pages. Projected sales for
this edition are 25,000 copies, clearly demon-
strating how interest in Uganda has increased.
Not everything of significance in Ugandan
tourism indicates change or expansion. Our
most successful marketing slogan remains as
appropriate today as in 1907 when Winston
Churchill famously described Uganda as the
‘Pearl of Africa’. It does not take long for visitors
to appreciate why the great man, who also
traversed Kenya, Sudan and Egypt and served
in South Africa, was captivated by Uganda
in particular. For now – as it did then – this
compact, landlocked East African country
contains an astonishing diversity of wildlife,
vegetation, landscapes and cultures. Here,
western and eastern Africa merge; rainforests
bristling with Central African birds and primates
adjoin savannas roamed by big game favour-
ites. The appeal is enhanced by a remarkable
number and variety of wildlife species. Although
it is no larger than the United Kingdom, Uganda
has one of Africa’s longest bird lists (with 1,040
species recorded to date) and more species of
primate than any other African country – 18,
including chimpanzee and mountain gorilla.
Covering a total area of 240,000 sq km,
Uganda is also home to members of traditional
kingdoms and tribes, each with its own history
and culture. Add the fact that these people
have long been considered Africa’s most
friendly and hospitable hosts, and we can justly
claim to be the continent’s most welcoming
and varied safari destination.
MAGNIFICENT LANDSCAPES
These impressive lists of species are due to
Uganda’s location between east and central
Africa at the headwaters of the River Nile.
The result is a wide range of habitats – forest,
woodland, wetland, moorland, savannas,
EXPERIENCE UGANDA
rivers and lakes – spread across magnificent
landscapes. To traverse Uganda is to discover
the floor of the Western Rift Valley, the vast
plains of Kidepo, the slopes of the world’s
largest free-standing volcano and the conti-
nent’s highest mountain range. These flank the
island-studded expanse of the world’s second-
largest freshwater lake and the turbulent
headwaters of its longest river. Despite its
landlocked location, a full fifth of Uganda is
covered by water. In addition to Lake Victoria
and the River Nile, Uganda is dotted with
hundreds of other lakes. Some fill extinct
volcanic craters, flood river valleys dammed by
lava or simply inundate large tracts of the rift
valley’s huge trough.
This theme of variety extends to the climate. In
Kidepo Valley, in the arid extreme north-east,
daytime temperatures regularly exceed 30°C
(85°F) while at night on the high Rwenzori,
just miles from the equator, they fall below
freezing. In general, however, the effect of
altitude bestows a singularly pleasant tropical
climate with temperatures averaging 21 to
25°C (70 to 77°F).
NATURAL ATTRACTIONS
It has always been easy to describe Uganda’s
natural attractions; but attracting visitors has
not always been so simple. What had been
Africa’s foremost safari destination in the
1960s all but disappeared off the tourist map
in the difficult 1970s and 1980s. By the time
stability was restored in 1986, Africa’s pearl was
tarnished; big game had been heavily poached
and the hotel stock was run down or ruined.
Uganda’s response was to draw on a remark-
able variety of alternative natural attractions.
While big game populations recovered, new
activities were developed. Visitors can track the
endangered mountain gorilla in the forests of
Bwindi and Mgahinga – the equally rare golden
16
monkey can also be reliably found in the latter –
and chimpanzee in the forests of Kibale, Kaniyo
Pabidi and Kyambura Gorge. The potential for
adventure has also been exploited. Trekkers
can climb to the giant caldera of Mount Elgon
and the glacial peaks of Mount Rwenzori – the
legendary snowy source of the Nile – while at
the conventional source of the Nile, rafters and
kayakers negotiate Africa’s finest white water
rapids below the river’s exit from Lake Victoria.
GAME VIEWING
Coming full circle, large mammal populations
in the grassland parks are once again worth
watching – happily so, for there is more to
game viewing in Uganda than game drives.
In the 1960s, launch trips on the Nile below
Murchison Falls and on the Kazinga Channel in
Queen Elizabeth National Park were highlights
of a visit to these parks. Today, refurbished
launches once again expose visitors to
memorable concentrations of waterside wildlife.
Uganda is a birdwatching paradise, too. Birders
seek the talismanic shoebill in wetlands and
EXPERIENCE UGANDA
19
ACCOLADES
• Kidepo Valley National Park was ranked third in ‘Africa’s 10 Best Parks’ by CNN Travel in 2013.
• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has been voted Africa’s top birding site by the African Bird Club.
• Fodor’s Travel Guides included Bwindi in its Top 10 African safari destinations for 2014.
• The New York Times travel section ranked Uganda one of 33 places to prioritise for a visit in 2012.
• Uganda was among National Geographic’s top 10 destinations in 2013.
• Lonely Planet, the world’s largest travel guide and digital media publisher, voted Uganda its No 1 tourist destination in 2012.
roam the forests ticking off Albertine Rift
endemics and rare Congo-Guinea biome
species. Prime birdwatching destinations
include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and
the ‘Royal Mile’ near Murchison Falls National
Park, ranked first and ninth respectively by
Travel Africa Magazine in its list of the top 10
birdwatching sites in Africa.
Other major birding sites include Queen
Elizabeth National Park, home to 604 bird
species, and Semliki Forest, which contains 46
Central African birds found nowhere else in
East Africa.
Uganda is not short of human variety, either.
Cultural tourism sites and events celebrate the
diversity of some 40 ethnic groups including
members of traditional kingdoms dating back
to the 14th century.
There is, of course, more to Uganda than
worthy wildlife experiences and meaningful
cultural encounters. There is also ample oppor-
tunity to simply rest and relax in a delightful
setting. Highlights in this regard can be found
beside the lakes of the Gorilla Highlands, along
the banks of the Nile and on lofty rims over-
looking the volcanic crater lakes of Fort Portal.
REFURBISHED
The standard of accommodation has improved
nationwide. Older, historical hotels have been
refurbished and new ones built. Kampala
was proud to host the 2007 Commonwealth
Summit and the event was preceded by a
dramatic increase in quality hotels in the
capital. Upcountry, luxury lodges and tented
camps serve all the major protected areas while
good mid-range hotels are to be found in the
main regional towns.
Kafu Lugogo
Nkusi
Katonga
Kaabong
Kotido
Moroto
KitgumAtiak
Moyo
Arua
NebbiPakwach
Gulu
Lira
Apac
ButiabaMasindi
Hoima
Kagadi
MubendeKyenjojoFort PortalBundibugyo
Kasese
Bushenyi
Mbarara
Ntungamo
Rukungiri
Kabale
Rakai
LyantondeMasaka
Mityana
ENTEBBE
Mpigi
KibogaBombo
Luwero
Mukono Jinja
Kamuli
Iganga
BusembatiaTororo
PallisaMbale
KapchorwaKumi
Soroti
SOUTH SUDAN
G l
N O R T H E R N
Mityana
Bombo
J
C E N T R A L
i
B b tib
E A S T E R N
ongoa
W E S T E R N
DRC
RWANDA
KENYA
LakeAlbert
LakeKwania
Lake Kyoga
LakeBisina
Lake Victoria
Lake Edward
LakeGeorge
Kalangala
SSESE ISLANDS
BUVMA ISLAND
Pager
Okok Okere
Aswa
Albert Nile
Ora
Victoria Nile
Kidepo Valley National Park
Budongo Forest
Mabira Forest
MabambaSwamp
Pian UpeWildlife Reserve
Mt ElgonNational Park
Murchison Falls National Park
Ajai Wildlife Reserve
Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve
Semliki National Park
Rwenzori National Park
Kigezi Wildlife Reserve
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Kibale National Park
Katonga Wildlife Reserve
Bwindi ImpenetrableNational Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Lake MburoNational Park
Matheniko Wildlife Reserve
Bokora Wildlife Reserve
KAMPALA
AFRICA
Uganda
International Border
Gorillas
National Parksand Wildlife Reserves
Rivers
Roads
Game
Birdwatching
Trekking
Butterflies
Chimpanzees
Monkeys
0 25 50
250 50
Kilometers
Miles
Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve
LOCATION UGANDA
Kafu Lugogo
Nkusi
Katonga
Kaabong
Kotido
Moroto
KitgumAtiak
Moyo
Arua
NebbiPakwach
Gulu
Lira
Apac
ButiabaMasindi
Hoima
Kagadi
MubendeKyenjojoFort PortalBundibugyo
Kasese
Bushenyi
Mbarara
Ntungamo
Rukungiri
Kabale
Rakai
LyantondeMasaka
Mityana
ENTEBBE
Mpigi
KibogaBombo
Luwero
Mukono Jinja
Kamuli
Iganga
BusembatiaTororo
PallisaMbale
KapchorwaKumi
Soroti
SOUTH SUDAN
G l
N O R T H E R N
Mityana
Bombo
J
C E N T R A L
i
B b tib
E A S T E R N
ongoa
W E S T E R N
DRC
RWANDA
KENYA
LakeAlbert
LakeKwania
Lake Kyoga
LakeBisina
Lake Victoria
Lake Edward
LakeGeorge
Kalangala
SSESE ISLANDS
BUVMA ISLAND
Pager
Okok Okere
AswaAlbert
Nile
Ora
Victoria Nile
Kidepo Valley National Park
Budongo Forest
Mabira Forest
MabambaSwamp
Pian UpeWildlife Reserve
Mt ElgonNational Park
Murchison Falls National Park
Ajai Wildlife Reserve
Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve
Semliki National Park
Rwenzori National Park
Kigezi Wildlife Reserve
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Kibale National Park
Katonga Wildlife Reserve
Bwindi ImpenetrableNational Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Lake MburoNational Park
Matheniko Wildlife Reserve
Bokora Wildlife Reserve
KAMPALA
AFRICA
Uganda
International Border
Gorillas
National Parksand Wildlife Reserves
Rivers
Roads
Game
Birdwatching
Trekking
Butterflies
Chimpanzees
Monkeys
0 25 50
250 50
Kilometers
Miles
Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve
21
Take yourvacation to new
heights
FLYING UGANDA
23
Uganda is a relatively small country, no larger than the United Kingdom, and most visitors tour
it by road. Good sealed highways radiate out from Kampala to regional towns, beyond which dirt roads lead onwards to the national parks. Road travel across Uganda is enlivened by regular changes in landscape and land use.
But if the scenery impresses at ground level,
it is just spectacular from the air. Aerial views
of Uganda are more accessible and affordable
than ever before thanks to scheduled flights by
Fly Uganda to selected tourism destinations.
PRIMEVAL
Fly over the lakes, cliffs and waterfalls of the
Western Rift Valley; burst through the spray
of Murchison Falls; count territorial pods of
hippo along the Kazinga Channel; glimpse
the glacial valleys of the Rwenzori (without a
seven-day trek); marvel at the primeval plains
and mountain ranges of Karamoja; and watch
your aeroplane’s shadow cross vast wetlands of
emerald papyrus wetlands.
Whether you choose a scheduled flight or a
private charter, an overflight of Uganda is a
safari in itself. As Ernest Hemingway (no stranger
to aerial expeditions over Africa) observed: “It is
good to have an end to journey toward; but it is
the journey that matters, in the end.”
With such spectacles beneath and with the
reassurance of international safety standards,
there is every reason to choose 90-minute
flights to destinations such as Bwindi and
Kidepo Valley instead of a road journey of 500
km or more. You will arrive fresher, too, ready
to appreciate at close hand the sights, sounds
and smells of settings previewed from above.
FOOTPRINT
It is reassuring to know that your environmen-
tal footprint may be lighter in the air than on
the ground, since Fly Uganda is Africa’s first
and only 100 per cent carbon neutral aviation
company.
CENTRAL UGANDA
Buzzing capital,perfectsetting
Uganda’s primary gateway for international tourists is Entebbe International Airport, close to
Entebbe town, the old colonial capital, 35 km south of Kampala, the busy modern capital city.
For tourists with fixed itineraries, these towns
are primarily staging points before and after
a safari to western Uganda. However, visitors
with more time will find a multitude of diver-
sions to occupy them in Central Uganda.
RETREATS
Kampala offers all the amenities of a modern
capital, while Entebbe and Jinja provide
relaxing retreats beside Lake Victoria and the
Source of the Nile respectively. Although the
national parks lie several hours’ drive from
Kampala, the capital is surrounded by tracts of
tropical forest, wetland and lake shores where
birds and primates can be found.
Climate: Tropical, tempered by altitude (1,200
metres above sea level). Temperatures rarely
rise above 30°C (85°F) or fall below
18°C (65ºF). January is the hottest
month.
Landscape: The scenery of Central
Uganda is dominated by low, flat-topped
hills between which broad wetland valleys
drain into lakes Victoria and Kyoga.
KEY ATTRACTIONS
Kampala: Uganda’s bustling capital is by far
its largest urban centre, with a population
of over 1 million. The fast-growing city has
a distinctive setting, spread across a series
of prominent hills close to Lake Victoria.
Although Kampala has long outgrown its
historical title of City of Seven Hills, the
original seven summits are still key focal
points, topped by distinctive landmarks of
cultural, religious and colonial significance.
Kampala is a very safe city to explore and
visitors can appreciate the striking contrasts
within the city centre on the slopes of Nakasero
Hill. Above Kampala Road, the main thor-
oughfare, leafy avenues are lined by restored
colonial buildings – many occupied by quality
restaurants and hotels – and brand-new office
buildings.
Downhill, the congested streets descend to
colourful markets, chaotic bus parks and a
permanent gridlock of vehicles, boda bodas
(moped taxis) and pedestrians.
Kampala offers a wide choice of accommo-
dation including several five-star hotels (this
sector was greatly expanded prior to the
Kampala Commonwealth Summit in 2007) as
well as decent mid-range hotels and popular
backpacker hostels.
Wavimenya Bay: While the sprawl of Kampala
congests the western side of Lake Victoria’s
24
FRIENDLY PEOPLE
25
The people of Kampala – and Ugandans in general – are friendly and approachable. Although, today, Kampala is a social and cultural melting pot, it remains the historical capital of the regional kingdom of Buganda, home of the Baganda, Uganda’s most numerous people. The Baganda are intensely proud of their Kabaka (king) and history and traditions that date back to the 16th century.
Mar
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aven
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CENTRAL UGANDA
27
A number of historical sites in and around Kampala relate to a time of dramatic change in the late 19th century when the Baganda encountered Islamic traders and British colonialists and missionaries.
Several stand on the city’s original seven hills. They include the Protestant Cathedral at Namirembe, the Catholic Cathedral at Rubaga, Fort Lugard in Old Kampala and the Kabaka’s Palace at Lubiri. Further afield are the Kasubi and Wamala Tombs, Katereke
Prison Ditch, Naggalabi Coronation Site and the Namugongo Martyrs’ Shrine. These locations were pivotal locations during a
hectic and rumbustious period of Ugandan history.
Contemporary culture comes to life at Kampala’s Ndere Centre, which has a colourful programme of music and dance displays.
Murchison Bay, the eastern shore remains
delightfully rural. A handful of lodges enable
visitors to start (and perhaps finish) their safari
in a tranquil lakeside setting just a short boat
ride (15 to 30 minutes depending on the craft
used) from the marina at Kampala’s Speke
Commonwealth Resort.
Entebbe: Offering tranquillity on the shores of
Lake Victoria, Entebbe is a small, quiet town
with a diminutive centre laid out between the
hilltop State House, the official residence of
the President of Uganda, and the lake-shore
golf course. A century ago it was the gateway
to Uganda. Steamers conveyed visitors,
among them Winston Churchill and Theodore
Roosevelt, across Lake Victoria from the
Uganda Railway terminus at Kisumu in Kenya.
Although this role ended when the railway
reached Kampala in 1931, proximity to Uganda’s
main airport means that Entebbe is still the
primary point of entry for international arrivals.
There is a wide selection of large hotels and
guesthouses catering for tourists and other
travellers.
Attractions: Entebbe’s lake-shore Botanical
Gardens introduce the visitor to a variety of
tropical trees, birds and monkeys. In the nearby
Wildlife Education Centre, a sanctuary for
rescued and orphaned wildlife, a popular new
‘behind the scenes’ tour takes you up close to
the residents and their carers.
Entebbe is also the boarding point for sunset
cruises on Lake Victoria, boat trips to Ngamba
Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary and resorts on
the Ssese archipelago, and for sport fishing
excursions in search of the mammoth Nile
perch.
Booklist: Charles Miller, ‘The Lunatic Express’.
Thomas Packenham, ‘The Scramble for Africa’.
Philip Briggs and Andrew Roberts, ‘Bradt Guide to
Uganda’.
A HECTIC HERITAGE
WESTERN UGANDA
Majestic peaks,
crater lakes and cool days
Foreign visitors have been entranced by the Mount Rwenzori area of Western Uganda since Henry
Stanley and Emin Pasha passed through here in 1889.
For this is arguably Uganda’s most dramatic
and scenic region. Between Lake Albert in the
north and Lake George in the south, the terrain
rises above the plains of the Semliki Valley
for over 4,000 metres to the snow-capped
summits of the Rwenzori.
Between these extremes, the landscape is
pocked by crater lakes and covered with tea
plantations, tropical forests, savanna and
farmland. The varied and abundant flora and
fauna include big game on the rift valley floor
in Queen Elizabeth National Park, rare forest
birds in Semliki National Park, primates in the
depths of Kibale Forest, and the bizarre, giant
Afro-Alpine plants that grow in the shadow of
the Rwenzori snow peaks.
Climate: Altitude affords the Rwenzori region
a pleasantly cool climate. Conditions are hotter
– with a mean maximum of 28°C (80°F) – and
drier on the low-lying rift valley floor.
Culture and people: The Rwenzori is home
to the Bakonzo mountain people, while the
Semliki valley is inhabited by the Bwamba
tribe and a community of Batwa Pygmies.
The countryside east of the mountain lies in
the Kingdom of Toro, home of the Batoro.
MAJOR ATTRACTIONS
Crater fields: The scenic Ndali crater field,
20 km south of Fort Portal, is the largest of
Western Uganda’s several clusters of extinct
volcanic craters. This distinctive region is
dominated by the 5,100 metre Rwenzori
mountain, the western and southern slopes of
which drop into the drier plains of the Western
– or Albertine – Rift Valley (620 to 900 metres
above sea level). The green and hilly Fort Portal
plateau to the east is dotted with volcanic
craters.
Kibale National Park: This mainly forested
park, 795 sq km in area, is best known for its
primate populations. Thirteen species, nine
of them diurnal, are present including chim-
panzee, L’Hoest’s monkey and red colobus.
Chimpanzee tracking is the main activity, while
birdwatchers are drawn to the park and the
community-run Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary by a
bird list of 335 species.
Rwenzori Mountains National Park: Africa’s
highest mountain range, the 5,100 metre
Rwenzori or Mountains of the Moon, is the
28
LANDSCAPE
29
The landscape is dominated by the 5,100 metre Rwenzori mountain, the western and southern slopes of which drop into the drier plains of the Western Rift Valley (620 to 900 metres above sea level). The green and hilly Fort Portal plateau to the east is dotted with volcanic crater lakes awaiting discovery by vehicle, bicycle or on foot.
WESTERN UGANDA
30
snowy source of the Nile referred to by early
geographers, 17 centuries before European
explorers marked it on their maps. The high
Rwenzori is a wonderland of glacier-carved
valleys filled with fantastically coloured mosses
and gigantic forms of lobelias, heathers and
groundsels. Expeditions use a chain of basic
huts and campsites to ascend the mountain.
Global warming looks set to melt the equato-
rial snows of East Africa within 25 years, so the
time to climb the Rwenzori is now.
Semliki National Park: The easternmost tract
of the Congo’s great Ituri Forest, Semliki is an
exciting destination for primate viewers and
birdwatchers. Fifteen primate species – more
even than Kibale – live within 6 km of the
primeval hot springs at Sempaya, while the 441
recorded bird species include 216 forest birds
and 80 Central African species found in few,
if any, other East African forests. Black dwarf
hornbill, shining blue kingfisher, Nkulengu-
rail and yellow-throated nicator are just a few
random highlights cited by the park’s expe-
rienced guides. Although keen birders stay
overnight in basic UWA bandas, a brand-new
tarmac road descending into the rift valley
makes Semliki an easy day trip from Fort
Portal.
Fort Portal: Generally held to be Uganda’s
most attractive town, Fort Portal is surrounded
by tea plantations and enjoys a scenic Rwenzori
backdrop and a pleasant climate. A selection
of good hotels makes it an ideal base for
exploring the region.
ACCOMMODATION
Visitors in the Rwenzori region can choose
from a wide range of lodgings in Kibale Forest,
overlooking some of the numerous volcanic
crater lakes, and in Fort Portal town. High-
lights are the Primate Lodge at Kibale’s chimp
tracking trailhead, the engagingly eccentric
Ndali Lodge, the monumental, crater-rim
edifice of the log-built Kyaninga Lodge and the
beautifully restored colonial-era Mountains of
the Moon hotel in Fort Portal.
GETTING THEREFort Portal and Kampala are connected by 300 km of surfaced road. Mweya, in the centre of Elizabeth National Park, lies 120 km south of Fort Portal.
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Uganda factsFACT FILE
31
Administrative divisions: 111 districts across
four administrative regions
Area: 93,065 sq km (land: 76,101 sq km, water
16,965 sq km)
Borders: 2,698 km (Democratic Republic of
Congo 765 km, Kenya 933 km, Rwanda 169 km,
South Sudan 435 km, Tanzania 396 km).
Banking hours: Mon to Fri 8.30 am to 6.00 pm;
Sat 9.00 am to 4.00 pm.
Business hours: Mon to Fri 8.30 am to 5.30 pm.
Capital: Kampala.
Climate: Tropical. Rainy seasons, March to May,
and September to November; dry seasons,
December to February and mid June to mid
August. Mean annual temperatures range
from about 16°C (61°F) in the southwestern
highlands to 25°C (77°F) in the northwest; but
in the northeast, temperatures exceed 30°C
(86°F) about 254 days per year.
Currency: The Uganda shilling (UGX).
Elevations: Highest point: Margherita Peak on
Mount Stanley at 5,110 metres.
Ethnic groups: Buganda, Iteso, Basoga,
Banyankore, Banyarwanda, Bakiga, Lango,
Acholi, Lugbara, Banyoro, Batoro, Karamojong,
Teso, Bagisu, Madi, Japadhola, Samia, Kakwa,
Nubian, Bagwere, Banyole, Bakonzo, Alur,
Kumam and European among others.
Electricity: 240 volts AC 50 Hz. Square-pin
plugs mostly used.
Exchange rate: US$ 1 = UGX 2,700 (Oct 2014)
History: Uganda gained independence from
Britain in 1962, maintaining its Commonwealth
membership.
Industries: Cotton, coffee, tea, sugar, tobacco
and textiles.
Geography: Uganda is landlocked. The south
of the country includes a substantial portion of
Lake Victoria. The centre is dominated by Lake
Kyoga.
Languages: The official language is English,
although many other languages are spoken in
Uganda.
Public holidays: 1 January, 26 January
(Liberation Day), 8 March (International
Women’s Day), Good Friday, Easter Monday,
1 May (Labour Day), 3 June (Martyrs’ Day), 9
June (National Heroes’ Day), 30 August (Eid
al-Fitr/End of Ramadan), 9 October (Independ-
ence Day), 6 November (Eid al-Adha/Feast of
the Sacrifice) 25 December (Christmas Day), 26
December (Boxing Day).
Population: 36.8 million (2013 estimate)
International dialling code: +256
Time: GMT +3.
Religions: Christian 84 per cent, Muslim 12 per
cent, other 1 per cent, none 0.7 per cent (2002
census).
Topography: The greater part of Uganda
consists of a plateau. Along the western border
are the Rwenzori Mountains. The eastern
frontier is dominated by Mount Elgon, while the
Western Rift Valley runs from north to south
through the western half of the country.
BWINDI AND SOUTH-WEST UGANDA
An animalencounterlike no other
Down in the remote south-western corner on the border of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of
Congo lies Mountain Gorilla Country – Uganda’s foremost tourist destination.
Here, set in a regional landscape of extraor-
dinary drama and variety, the national parks
of Mgahinga and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
sustain a remarkable diversity of life. But while
zoologists and botanists marvel at the lengthy
species counts, most visitors are drawn by just
one animal: the mountain gorilla. This endan-
gered primate has a total population of less
than 800 and lives only in the forests of the
Virunga volcanoes and Bwindi. Half of this
total lives in Mgahinga (on the Ugandan slopes
of the Virunga) and Bwindi, making Uganda’s
Mountain Gorilla Country the prime location to
search for these magnificent animals.
EXCLUSIVE
Mountain gorilla tracking is one of the world’s
most exclusive and remarkable wildlife
encounters. To minimise disturbance to these
endangered great apes, only eight people
may track each of the habituated gorilla group
each day, while viewing time is strictly limited
to one hour. As wildlife viewing goes, it is
difficult to conceive how or where on earth
60 minutes could be more rewardingly spent.
Gorilla tracking offers the privilege of encoun-
tering one of the world’s rarest animals in its
natural habitat and, by doing so, helping to
fund its continued survival. Although gorillas
are undeniably intelligent and impressive
creatures to watch – a silverback can weigh
over 200 kg (450 lb) – the greatest rewards are
less tangible. The gorilla is one of our closest
relatives and few observers emerge from the
magic hour without feeling an unfathomable
and often profoundly moving connection.
Climate: The driest months are January and
February and June to September, although
heavy rain can fall at any time of year. Evening
temperatures are cool.
Landscape: Bwindi constitutes an island of
remnant forest in a densely cultivated region of
hills and deep valleys adjoining the Albertine
Rift Valley and the Virunga volcanoes.
ATTRACTIONS
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: A unique wildlife
experience. Biologically, the Bwindi Impenetra-
ble is one of Africa’s richest forests, owing to its
great age (over 25,000 years) and an altitudi-
nal range spanning 1,400 metres. There is an
impressive list of species, with 200 different
trees, 350 birds, 310 butterflies, 88 moths, 51
reptiles and 120 mammals including several
32
GETTING THERE
primates, among them chimpanzee, black-and-
white colobus, blue monkey, grey-cheeked
mangabey, L’Hoest’s monkey and the star
attraction, the mountain gorilla. Bwindi has 10
habituated gorilla groups, which are tracked
from four trailheads. Eight permits are available
for each group, giving a daily maximum of 80
permits. Tracking the mountain gorilla takes
two to eight hours depending on the location
of the group.
The adventure requires a reasonable level
of fitness, as the Impenetrable Forest is well
named. The gorilla’s homeland comprises
dense, tangled vegetation on a mountainous
landscape of deep valleys and steep ridges.
INSIGHT
Bwindi is also one of Uganda’s top bird-
watching destinations, with 350 types of
bird including many localised Albertine
Rift endemic species. Outside the forest,
33
The Bwindi trailheads are eight to 10 hours’ drive from Kampala. Tarmac extends to the towns of Kabale, Kisoro and Rukungiri, beyond which dirt roads wind into the hills. The journey is best covered over two days, stopping overnight in Lake Mburo. Daily flights from Kampala to Kihihi (40 km from Buhoma) take just 90 minutes.
BWINDI AND
SOUTH-WEST UGANDA
35
Community Walks provide an insight into the
lives of the Bakiga people living beside the
forest. A walk through nearby Buniga Forest
with a Batwa guide demonstrates the tradi-
tional hunter-gatherer existence of Uganda’s
oldest extant tribal group.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: This small
park, covering just 38 sq km, has a magnificent
setting on the northern slopes of the Virunga
volcanoes. Two rare primates, mountain
gorillas and golden monkeys, can be tracked,
although the gorillas sometimes roam ‘out
of bounds’ into neighbouring Rwanda and
Congo. The park’s three dormant volcanoes
can be climbed; and on the summit of Mount
Sabinyo you can stand simultaneously in
Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic
of Congo. The guided Batwa Trail illustrates
aspects of forest life before descending into
Garama Cave, once home to the Batwa king,
where underground acoustics add resonance
to a memorable musical finale.
Lake Mburo National Park: Our smallest
savanna park (370 sq km) provides a welcome
break on the long drive between Kampala and
the gorilla parks of south-western Uganda.
Mihingo Lodge, perched atop an ancient
granite kopje, is a perfect base for exploring
a mosaic of habitats including open water,
wetland, grassland, woodland and forest
patches. Wildlife species such as impala, zebra,
eland and topi that are not often seen in other
Ugandan parks can be viewed on game drives,
a boat cruise and on horseback.
Lake Bunyonyi: Littered with islands and
enclosed by steep, terraced hills, Africa’s
second-deepest lake is unforgettably scenic.
Island lodges and camps provide the perfect
setting to recuperate after the exertion of
tracking gorillas.
Lake Mutanda: In a region known for scenic
highlights, the view across this little-known
lake near Kisoro stands apart. You’ll struggle
for superlatives as you gaze across the island-
dotted lake towards the zigzag horizon of the six
Virunga volcanoes. Accommodation is located
to enjoy the panorama and access to new gorilla
tracking trailheads in southern Bwindi.
Accommodation: Lake Mburo and the Bwindi
and Mgahinga trailheads are all provided
with upmarket and mid-range option lodges.
Comfortable mid-range accommodation is also
available at lakes Bunyonyi and Mutanda and in
the regional towns of Kabale and Kisoro.
CULTURE AND PEOPLEThe Bwindi hills are inhabited by the Bakiga, hard-working farmers who have shaped the region’s distinctive landscape of steep, terraced hills. Batwa Pygmies inhabit the margins of Bwindi and Mgahinga forests. Fascinating forest walks give an insight into their traditional lifestyle.
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QUEEN ELIZABETH
NATIONAL PARK
Wildlifegalore in a fabulous setting
Uganda’s most scenic and diverse park has a wonderful location on the floor of the Albertine Rift
Valley, 914 metres above sea level, at the foot of the 5,100 metre Rwenzori Mountains.
Varied habitats such as lakes, rivers, open
savanna, acacia woodland, tropical forest
and vast wetlands support an impressive 95
mammal species and over 600 species of bird.
It’s a remarkable total for a park covering less
than 2,000 sq km – one that is surpassed in
Africa only by the neighbouring and larger
Virunga National Park in Congo.
LION VIEWING
With boat trips on the 40 km Kazinga Channel,
a meandering drive among spectacular
36
volcanic craters, lion viewing on the Kasenyi
Plains, chimpanzee tracking in the depths of
Kyambura Gorge, walks into the dark depths
of Maramagambo Forest and game drives
beneath vast skies in the remote wilderness
of Ishasha, Queen Elizabeth National Park has
plenty to interest any visitor.
Climate: The park experiences two rainy
seasons in March to May and August to
November. Its location on the low-lying rift
valley floor is hotter and drier than most parts
of Uganda with a mean maximum temperature
of 28°C (80°F).
People: The plains beneath the Rwenzori
Mountains to the north are inhabited by
Basongora pastoralists while Bakiga, Banyarag-
uru and Ankole people live south of the Kazinga
Channel.
ATTRACTIONS
Channel cruise: The park’s most enduring
activity is the two-hour return launch trip from
Mweya Peninsula along the Kazinga Channel
to Lake Edward. The shoreline is home to
crocodiles, hundreds of hippo and a variety of
waterbirds, while herds of elephant, buffalo,
37
BIRDWATCHINGOpportunities range from easy waterbird sightings on the comfortable Mweya launch to careful searches for rare species in the Maramagambo Forest. The following is just a small selection of rare or remarkable birds: black-rumped buttonquail, broad-billed roller, papyrus gonolek, western-banded snake eagle, African fish eagle, white-backed night heron, Pel’s fishing owl, black bee eater, shoebill, rufus-bellied heron, great blue turaco, black-and-white casqued hornbill and African finfoot.
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QUEEN ELIZABETH
NATIONAL PARK
39
leopard, waterbuck and Uganda kob are
regular visitors from the plains beyond.
Game viewing: East of Mweya, the Kasenyi
grasslands are known for the lion prides that
prey on large herds of Uganda kob. Lion
encounters are guaranteed by joining in
the park’s Predator Research Project as its
members monitor radio-tagged prides. In the
far south of Queen Elizabeth National Park,
en route to Bwindi forest, lie the grasslands
of Ishasha. These are home to elephant, topi,
buffalo and the park’s most famous residents,
the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha.
Volcanic craters: A 24 km Crater Drive winds
through a scenic cluster of extinct volcanic
craters filled variously with lakes, forest and
savanna. Flamingos are regular visitors to the
craters at Kyambura and Katwe. At Katwe Salt
Lake, just outside the national park, visitors can
see salt being produced from evaporation pans
in a centuries-old process.
Forest walks: In the shady Maramagambo
Forest, birdwatchers can add forest species
to their water and grassland sightings. Chim-
panzees and other primates are found in the
nearby Kyambura Gorge.
WHERE TO STAY
Accommodation: There are hotels and lodges
for all budgets. Options include upmarket
lodges and tented camps as well as basic
hostels, cottages and campsites. Mid-range and
budget properties can be found outside the
park boundary.
LANDSCAPEThe national park is located on the floor of the Albertine Rift Valley, where it is enclosed by the valley’s bounding escarpments, the Rwenzori Mountains and lakes Edward and George.
GETTING THERETwo roughly equidistant routes, both on good tarmac, lead from Kampala to Mweya in the heart of the park. A northern approach runs via Fort Portal and the Rwenzori (410 km) and a southern route passes Lake Mburo (420 km). Ishasha, in the southern part of the park, is just 63 km from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Daily flights from Kampala to airstrips near Mweya and Ishasha take 90 minutes.
It was Winston Churchill who once described the game-rich plains around Murchison Falls as ‘Kew Gardens and
the Zoo on an unlimited scale’.
In the 1970s and 1980s the local wildlife
suffered at the hands of poachers; but today
the 5,000 sq km wilderness of Uganda’s
largest conservation area is home to a healthy
population of 76 mammal species, including
buffalo, elephant, giraffe, hartebeest, hippo,
leopard, lion and Uganda kob. There are also
450 bird species in varied habitats such
as savanna, open water, papyrus swamp,
woodland and tropical forest.
The Nile is the lifeblood of Murchison Falls
National Park, sustaining large numbers of
resident hippo, crocodile and waterbirds
as well as other regularly visiting animals. After
dropping into the national park at Karuma Falls,
the river races down 80 km of rapids before
crashing 40 metres (130 ft) onto the rift valley
floor over the thunderous Murchison Falls.
River launches ply the broad, tranquil stream
below the falls to provide a novel, reliable and
comfortable means of game viewing.
Traditional game drives are available as well as
forest walks in search of birds and primates.
Outside the park, the rich history of the ancient
Bunyoro Kingdom can be explored at various
cultural sites.
Climate: The Nile corridor below Murchison
Falls is the lowest part of Uganda and tempera-
tures are hot, with a mean high of 29°C (80°F).
Wet seasons occur during mid March to June
and August to September.
Culture and people: The Murchison Nile
separates two distinct ethnic groups, the
Bantu-speaking Bunyoro and the Nilotic
peoples of northern Uganda. South of the
river, the Bunyoro Kingdom was once one
of Africa’s greatest empires. More recently,
thousands of Acholi and Langi people living
north of the Nile were displaced during a
prolonged rebellion. Although the region has
41
LAND OF CONTRASTThe Murchison terrain is bisected by a steep escarpment that drops down from the Bunyoro plateau to Lake Albert and the Albertine Rift Valley. Within the park, the plateau is characterised by woodland and tropical forest while the hot rift valley plains are covered by savanna and bush. Beyond the Nile, the landscape is flat and increasingly dry.
MURCHISON FALLS
43
been at peace since 2006, these societies are
struggling to return to normal.
‘MUST DO’ ACTIVITIES
The park contains three essential visitor activi-
ties. First is the morning game drive across
the beautiful Buligi grasslands to the shores of
the Albert Nile. Game drives are, of course, a
standard component of any East African safari.
Game cruises, on the other hand, are consider-
ably rarer, so don’t miss the chance of a launch
trip up the river between wildlife-rich banks to
the base of the Nile’s highest waterfall. Thirdly,
the view from the boat must certainly be
supplemented by a visit to the Top of the Falls
to see, hear and feel the waters of the mighty
Nile explode through a 6 metre gorge.
BIRDERS’ HEAVEN
Murchison is a popular birdwatching destina-
tion, with 450 species recorded. You can take
a cruise downriver towards Lake Albert to seek
waterbirds, most notably the shoebill, while 59
‘restricted range’ species, including Albertine
rift endemics and rare Central African species,
await in the Budongo and Kaniyo Pabidi
forests. Primates, including chimpanzee, can
also be tracked in Kaniyo Pabidi forest.
Cultural sites: Hoima town, south of the park,
contains cultural attractions related to the
Bunyoro Kingdom: Mparo Tombs, Hoima Palace
and Katasiha Fort. At Kibero Salt Gardens
beside Lake Albert, salt has been produced
since the 13th century.
Rhino viewing: Guided walks in the 70 sq
km Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary provide the only
opportunity to encounter rhinos in the wild in
Uganda. Heavy poaching during the 1980s had
left Uganda without rhinos until animals from
Kenya and the United States were brought
to Ziwa in 2004-5. The sanctuary’s first baby
was born in 2009 from a Kenyan father and
American mother. His name? Obama, of course.
Paraa, the park’s main tourism hub, is 310 km from Kampala. A surfaced road extends as far as Masindi town, 85 km before Paraa. Daily flights from Kampala to Murchison take one hour.
WHERE TO STAYMurchison Falls National Park contains two upmarket hotels and a tented camp and a choice of mid-market and budget options.
GETTING THERE
EASTERN & NORTHERN UGANDA
Land of fabulous peaks, forests and falls
While the beaten tourist track runs south-west from Kampala, those heading in the opposite
direction can discover some equally beau-tiful but far from crowded destinations.
Eastern Uganda’s most distinctive geographi-
cal feature is the 4,321 metre Mount Elgon,
the world’s largest free-standing volcanic
mountain. On its slopes, walkers will find water-
falls, montane panoramas and vast forests. Far
to the north, on the border with South Sudan,
an exciting diversity of wildlife is found in
Kidepo Valley National Park, one of Africa’s last
great wildernesses.
Climate: Mount Elgon experiences dry seasons
from June to August and December to March.
Night-time temperatures are cold at high
altitude. Kidepo Valley is hotter and drier,
44
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with a single prolonged dry season between
October and March.
Culture and people: The Bagisu people on the
southern slopes of Mount Elgon are known for
their colourful biannual imbalu ceremony in
which boys are initiated into manhood through
circumcision. The Karamojong, who live
between Mount Elgon and Kidepo Valley, are
pastoralists who maintain their traditional semi-
nomadic lifestyle.
MAJOR ATTRACTIONS
Mount Elgon: Mount Elgon National Park is an
ideal setting for both short and extended hikes.
The park’s Forest Exploration Centre at Kapkwai
offers guided walks through montane forest and
bamboo to reach caves and waterfalls. Longer
treks, several days in duration, ascend to the
4,321 metre summit of the mountain. The main
peaks form the fractured rim of the world’s
largest caldera, 8 km in diameter, containing
glacial lakes and hot springs.
Outside the park, too, there are marvellous
walking opportunities, notably at Sipi village,
where the Sipi River plunges over three lofty
waterfalls in quick succession. If rambling
45
VOLCANIC VIEWSUganda’s eastern frontier is covered by extensive plains dotted with extinct volcanoes and isolated mountain ranges. The highest and most extensive of these is the 4,000 sq km Mount Elgon. Moving north through the remote region of Karamoja towards Kidepo Valley, the landscape becomes progressively drier.
EASTERN & NORTHERN UGANDA
47
seems rather too pedestrian, longer
distances and greater heights can
be achieved by mountain biking and
tandem paragliding.
Accommodation: Mount Elgon National
Park offers basic cottages at Kapkwai,
while mid-range lodges, backpacker
cottages and campsites surround Sipi
village. At the foot of the mountain, below
the towering Wanale Cliffs, Mbale town
contains several good hotels and is an ideal
base for exploring the region.
Travel: Mbale is 230 km (four hours’ drive)
from Kampala on good tarmac roads and
Sipi a further 50 km (one hour’s drive).
Kidepo Valley National Park: Located on the
Sudan border in the farthest corner of the
Karamoja district, Kidepo is one of Africa’s
most magnificent wildernesses. Big game
favourites such as cheetah, eland, elephant,
giraffe, hartebeest, hyena, lion and zebra – as
well as one of Africa’s largest single herds of
buffalo – roam extensive grasslands surrounded
by distant mountain ranges. The wildlife
includes species such as aardwolf, bat-eared
fox, cheetah, striped hyena and ostrich not
often seen in other protected areas of Uganda.
Its isolation means that Kidepo is little visited
and visitors can expect a high degree of
solitude.
Accommodation: Kidepo has two lodges (one
upmarket and one mid-range), basic cottages
and wilderness campsites.
Karamoja: The most exciting tourism devel-
opment in Uganda in recent years concerns
improved security in Karamoja, a wild area
notorious for armed cattle raids between
pastoralist clans which tourists were advised
to avoid. Following an effective disarmament
programme and thanks to initiatives by NGOs
and a handful of safari companies, visitors can
explore this forbidding but starkly beautiful
region and witness the tough realities of tradi-
tional Karamojong life.
Other attractions: Nyero Rock paintings near
Kumi.
GETTING THEREMany visitors travel between Kampala and Kidepo by plane, preferring the 1 hour 45 minute flight to a 590 km drive. However, growing numbers are travelling overland, stopping overnight in Murchison Falls National Park or in the towns of Gulu or Kitgum.
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JINJA AND THE NILE
High-octane adventure starts here
Jinja town stands beside the sole outflow from Lake Victoria – the place reached in 1862 by British
explorer John Speke, who proclaimed the source of the River Nile and settled a geographical conundrum dating back to the Ancient Egyptians.
Today, the source attracts thousands of
visitors each year. Some are drawn by a sense
of history and a fondness for geography;
others by the knowledge that exploring the
headwaters of the Nile is considerably more
comfortable and entertaining than it was in
1862.
ADVENTURE
Many of Jinja’s fine colonial-era buildings have
been restored as hotels and restaurants, while
the river bank can be enjoyed with equipment
as basic as a set of golf clubs. The prospect
of adventure still persists and the turbulent
headwaters of this iconic river can also be
experienced with kayaks, rafts, jet boats, quad
bikes and – this may not be for everyone – with
a bungee rope strapped around one’s ankles.
Climate: The Nile corridor enjoys good weather
all year round.
Culture and people: Two
tribes are divided by the Nile
at Jinja; the Baganda live on
the west bank and the Basoga
on the eastern or Jinja side. The
Nile is of great cultural impor-
tance to both groups and rituals
are performed at shrines at
Bujagali Falls and Kalagala Falls.
MAJOR ATTRACTIONS
Jinja: With a combination of
high-octane activities and relaxing
excursions, decent hotels and
restaurants, pleasant scenery and
an enduring historical significance,
the Jinja Nile is one of Uganda’s
main tourism destinations, offering
relaxation, history and adventure.
The main attraction in the quiet,
riverside town of Jinja is a visit to
Speke’s Source of the Nile. Seven
kilometres to the north, the pace of life
is very different at Bujagali, now firmly estab-
lished as East Africa’s adventure tourism hub.
Each year, thousands of tourists, backpackers
and overland truckers flock to the river to raft
a sequence of high-grade rapids on what is
considered one of the world’s finest tracts of
white water.
48
WHERE TO STAY
49
Jinja town offers upmarket guesthouses and mid-range and budget hotels. Bujagali Falls has backpacker accommodation and a mid-range tented camp. Upriver, superior lodges overlook the rapids at Kalagala. Mabira Forest has an upmarket lodge and backpacker accommodation.
ACTIVITIESRafting is no longer the only high point,
however. Other activities to keep the adrenalin
flowing include kayaking, quad biking, jet
boating, and a 44-metre bungee jump over
the river. The full menu caters for mild as well
as wild tastes. The creation of Lake Bujagali
behind a new hydro-power dam in 2012 has
opened the way for gentler excursions such as
family boat trips, fishing excursions, sundowner
cruises and paddle boarding. On shore, horse
riding and mountain biking provide alternative
means of exploration.
Mabira Forest: This tropical forest is located
between Kampala and Jinja, just an hour from
the capital. Central Uganda’s largest forest
reserve offers guided and unguided forest
walks, specialist birdwatching, mountain biking
and Uganda’s first canopy-level zip line.
Travel: Jinja is 80 km east of Kampala on a
tarmac road. Travel time is about two hours.
NILE RAPIDSBelow its outlet from Lake Victoria, the River Nile passes between high, cultivated banks over a series of rapids marked by forested mid-channel islands.
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Setting new standards of comfort and choice
UGANDA HOTEL OWNERS
ASSOCIATION
51
The Uganda Hotel Owners’ Association (UHOA) has been
in operation for 12 years and has more than 200 members.
The association was founded
in order to provide a common thread for
Uganda’s hotel owners by promoting and
protecting accommodation services nation-
wide. Its constant aim has been to provide
up-to-date information about the standards
of accommodation and hospitality being
offered to both domestic and international
tourists.
VISION
Year by year, the tourism and hotel sector
in Uganda has continued to grow, with a
notable increase in both the number of new
properties and the room capacity of existing
hotels.
The expansion of tourism activities, such as
gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, birdwatch-
ing, bungee jumping, fishing and rafting, has
helped support the standards and demand
for new hotels. The association constantly
monitors all improvements in the hotel
industry, from infrastructure to staff training
and the quality of hospitality.
MEMBERSHIP
Membership is open to all hotels, inns, motels,
camps and lodges that are formally registered
and actively work in the hotelkeeping industry.
Approved membership runs for a year and
there is an annual subscription fee.
TOUR OPERATORS
Uganda touroperators
52
1000 SHADES OF GREEN TOUR & SAFARISContact Person: Charles M. KisituPlot 11 Portal Ave, Adam House PO Box 21142, KampalaCell: +256 (0)788 761 007Email: [email protected]
AA SAFARIS & TOURSContact Person: Hadijah TanahRoom 4, Sarah Mall, Martin Rd Old KampalaPO Box 28921, KampalaTel: +256 (0)392 883 831Cell: +256 (0)752 827 492Fax: +256 (0)414 250 018 Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
AAB TOURS & TRAVELContact Person: Kiganda Noah SonkoZana Entebbe highway, Nyanama Rd behind family supermarket PO Box 37400, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 201 299Cell: +256 (0)755 700 700Email: [email protected]
ABA GLOBAL TOURS & TRAVELContact Person: Lydia NambiPlot 16B,George Street PO Box 37400, KampalaTel: +256 312 372 885Cell: +256 712 316 101, +256 702 246 175Email: [email protected]
ABABA UGANDA SAFARISContact Person: Jonathan OparoPlot 711 Nambi Irene House, Najjana-kumbi, Ebb HighwayPO Box 27707, KampalaTel: +256 486 660 228Cell: +256 772 502 713, +256 779 872 66Email: [email protected]
ABACUS AFRICAN VACATIONContact Person: Robert BegumisaPlot 194, Mobutu road (next to American club) Makindye PO Box 34944, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 232 657Cell: +256 (0)772 331 332Fax: +256 (0)312 261 930Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
ABERCROMBIE & KENT TOURS & TRAVEL LTDContact Person: Geoffrey Worke KentPlot 46A Victoria Loop, 108 Lubowa PO Box 7799, Kampala Tel: +256 (0)414 201 321Email: [email protected]
ACACIA SAFARISContact Person: Connie TumusiimePlot 351b, Balintuma Rd, Nankulabye PO Box 29493, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 253 597Cell: +256 (0)712 800 004Fax: +256 (0)414 532 742Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
ACROSS AFRICA HOLIDAYSContact Person: Catharina BertramPlot 137, Block 261, Kizungu, Luthuli, Makindye, KampalaCell: +256 701 630 684 Email: [email protected]
ADRIFT EAST AFRICAContact Person: Dennis NtegeKira Rd, UWAPO Box 7681, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 252 720; +256 (0)312 237 438Cell: +256 (0)772 454 206Fax: +256 (0)414 252 720Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
ADVENTURE NATURAL AFRICAN SAFARISContact Person: Ben Amarungu 72,Mutesa 2 Rd Ntinda PO Box 21611, KampalaTel: +256 392949157Cell: +256 772863446Fax: +256312294782Email: [email protected]
WWW.AFRICASAFARISUG.COMADVENTURE VACATION SAFARISContact Person: Busuulwa FaroukPlot 1285, Ndeeba Kabowa RdPO Box 4123 KampalaTel: +256 392 813 391Cell: +256 414 663 051Email: adventurevacationsafaris@gmail.comwww.adventurevacationsafaris.com
AFRI TOURS & TRAVELContact Person: Tilly JohnstonePlot 1 Kafu Rd, Fairway Hotel PO Box 5187, Kampala Tel: +256 (0)414 233 596Cell: +256 (0)776 233 596Email: [email protected]
AFRICA ADVENTURE SAFARISContact Person: Wilberforce BegumisaSeven Sisters House Plot 64, Hoima RD, 1st Floor, appt 3. PO Box 22754, KampalaTel: +256 (0)392 834 606Cell: +256 (0)784 445 444; 701 106 004Email: [email protected] www.tour-uganda.com
AFRICA RUNNERS COContact Person: Twinomujuni BernardPlot 4 Pilkington Rd PO Box27751, KampalaTel: +256 (0)312 250 014Cell: +256 772400701Email: [email protected]
AFRICAN ADVENTURE TRAVELLERSContact Person: Mugabe RobertAnnex 4 Nsambya Sharing Centre, Gaba Rd, PO Box 26784, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 597 257Cell: +256 782 118 037 Fax: +256 (0)414 597 257Email: [email protected]
AFRICAN BIG FIVE SAFARISContact Person: Geoffrey OchanPlot 4,Pilkington Road,Fami House (Formerly Colline House) 3rd Floor Suite 58PO Box 27250, KampalaTel: +256 414 259 172Cell: +256 751 901 801, +256 714 901 801Email: [email protected]
AFRICAN PEARL SAFARISContact Person: Azarius BaryaruhaRm 8, 2nd Floor, Station House Plot 3, Kampala RdPO Box 4562, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 233 566/7Cell: +256 (0)772 718 121Fax: +256 (0)414 235 770Email: [email protected]
AFRICAN WHITE RHINO SAFARISContact Person: Dan LuleBlock 4, Butikiro RdPO Box 843, KampalaTel: +256 414 370 912Cell: +256 772 403 766Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
AFRICA’S GREAT EXPLORATION (AGE)Contact Person: Priscilla ButagiraUnit F.1.12, First Floor, Acacia Mall, Plot 8a - 12a Cooper RoadPO Box 9021, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 662 300; +256 392085535Cell: +256 (0)772 509 600; +256 776723274Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] www.agesafaris.com
AFRIKA TURContact Person: Hasifa Nakitende GaustadPlot 349, Katale,Seguku, Entebbe RdPO Box 33285, KampalaTel: +256 312 237 452Cell: +256 772 464 619Email: [email protected]
ALBRIEUX AFRICA TOURSContact Person: Brenda KirungiPlot 23A Kimera Rd-Ntinda PO Box 7166, KampalaTel: +256 787 915 650Cell: +256 414 693 107Email: [email protected]
ALPHA AND OMEGA TOURS AND TRAVELContact Person: Robinah LubwamaLower Muyenga, KampalaPO Box 886, KampalaTel: +256 414266858Cell: +256 772509798 +256 777201697 Fax: +256 (0)414 503 064Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
AMA’DI TOURS AND TRAVELContact Person: Angella MesikuRaja Chambers, 2nd floor, Room 50 Parliamentary AvenuePO Box 35641, KampalaCell: +256 752 600 874Email: [email protected]
ANSIMA SAFARIS LTDContact Person: Namusoke Maria KedrineUganda HouseCell: + 256 414 695 341Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
AR SAFARIS (AFRICAN ROOTS SAFARIS)Contact Person: Agnes Larubi and Ann Daisy NagawaPlot 8, left lane Manyago PO Box 835, EntebbeTel: +256 414 695 479Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
ARIRANG TOUR SERVICESContact Person: Zhang HaoPlot 15 Kyadondo Road, Nakasero PO Box 33487, KampalaCell: +256 772 778 888Email: [email protected]
AROUND AFRICA SAFARISContact Person: Bernard Okech OburPlot 273 Deo Lane, Kyeyagalire road Zzana Makindye DivisionPO Box 35412, KampalaTel: +256 414 693 576Cell: +256 782 074 238; +256 773 599 507Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] www.aroundafricasafari.com
ASYANUT SAFARIS AND INCENTIVESContact Person: Babra A. VanhelleputteLubowa Estate, (Next to International School of Uganda); Entebbe Road PO Box 3456, KampalaTel: +256 414 503 065; +256 312 503 065Cell: +256 712 187 411; +256 756 000 598Fax: +256 414 503 064Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] www.asyanuttours-safaris.com
ATLAS AFRICAN SAFARISContact Person: Chris WinyiPlot 13B, Kampala Road Amadinda House (1st Floor)PO Box 12719, KampalaTel: +256 312 516 761, +256 312 374 008Cell: +256 772 749 858; +256 703 030 549Fax: +256 414503064Email: [email protected] www.atlassafaris.com
This list has been supplied by the Association
of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO).
53
B&L SAFARI CENTREContact Person: Kemirembe Phiona Plot 665 B, Buganda Road NHCC, KampalaPO Box 70257, Clock Tower, KampalaTel: +256 414 235 968, +256 312 112 969Cell: +256 714 398 321, +256 712 126 020Fax: +256 414 503 064Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] www.blsafaricentre.com
BEYOND THE SKY TOURS & TRAVEL BUREAUContact Person: Birungi DoreenOffice no. G9, Metropole House, Plot 8-10 Entebbe Road PO Box 36671, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 250 359; 312 108 052Cell: +256 (0)752 645 005Fax: +256 (0)414 250 358Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
BIC TOURSContact Person: Mugisha SamuelMazima/Uchumi Mall opp Quality Hill 1st Floor offices Suite No 110-111 NsambyaPO Box 29878, KampalaCell: +256 483 660 347Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
BROVAD TOURS & TRAVELContact Person: Rashid KayimbaGround Floor, Communications House PO Box 9174, KampalaTel: +256 414 237 477Cell: +256 (0)774 334 655Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
BUFFALO SAFARI CAMPS (BUFFALO ROCKS LTD)Contact Person: Timothy Grover JohnPlot 1 Kijujunbwa Rd, Next to Travellers Corner, Masindi TownPO Box 90, MasindiTel: +256 465 420 244Cell: +256 782 805 639; 758 098 428 Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
BUNYONYI OVERLAND RESORTContact Person: Ivan Mbabazi BatumaPlot 1,Kazooba roadPO Box 710, KabaleCell: +256 772 409 510 Fax: +256 486 423 075Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
BUNYONYI SAFARISContact Person: Charlotte KamugishaGround Floor, Crusader House 7 Portal AvenuePO Box 26905, KampalaTel: +256 (0)312 261 001/2; 414 347 460Cell: +256 (0)777 073 11Fax: +256 (0)414 345 605Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
CHURCHILL SAFARIS & TRAVELContact Person: Ether Birungi KyambaddeBlock 928b, Sir Albert Cook Natete PO Box 28170, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 341 815Cell: +256 (0)772 671 285; 704 671 285; +256 704671283 Fax: +256 (0)414 253 976Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
CITADEL TOURING SAFARISContact Person: Arsene M. BalihutaRoom 55, Tirupati Mazima Mall,Plot 2530 Ggaba Road,Nsambya, KampalaPO Box 8326, KampalaTel: +256 782 795 541Cell: +256 781 236 484Email: [email protected] ; [email protected]; [email protected]
CLASSIC AFRICA SAFARISContact Person: Mel Gormley77 Eric Magala RoadPO Box 524, EntebbeTel: +256 (0)414 320 121Cell: +256 (0)772 642 185Fax: +256 (0)414 320 121Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
CONCORD INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL BUREAU (MAGIC SAFARIS)Contact Person: Deicole Mugema Parliament AvenueTel: +256 414 342 926Cell: +256 752 742 908Fax: +256 414 342 926Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
CRYSTAL TRAVEL SERVICESContact Person: Christine MwinikeOff Barnabus road, Plot 433, Block 244, Kisugu MuyengaPO Box 9698, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 345 742Cell: +256 (0)772 470 260Fax: +256 (0)414 235 798Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
CYCADS AFRICAN SAFARIS LTDContact Person: Charles BiryomumaishoPlot 683 Willis Road, Namirembe, Near Cathedral PO Box 22460, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 573 775Cell: +256 (0)772 507 [email protected]
DAVIDE & FRANCESCO EAST AFRICAContact Person: Francesco Dal LagoKansanga PO Box 7214, Kampala Tel: +256 791 217 028Cell: +256 772 957 850Fax: +256 (0)414 231 858Email: [email protected]
DESTINATION JUNGLE LTDContact Person: Constatino Tessarin5th floor, Pan African House PO Box 2874, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 232 754Cell: +256 (0)712 385 446Fax: +256 (0)312 113 863Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
EAST AFRICA EXPLORERSContact Person: Robert ByalwtagaPlot 86, Nsamizi Rd PO Box 687, EntebbeTel: +256 (0)414 322 789Cell: +256 (0)772 873 106Fax: +256 (0)414 322 789Email: [email protected]
ENCOUNTER AFRICA SAFARISContact Person: Amos OchiengLugard Avenue Ebb PO Box 10121, KampalaTel: +256 414 693 085Cell: +256 712 741 015Email: [email protected]; www.gorilla-trecking-uganda.com
EQUATORIAL WILD SAFARISContact Person: Allan EmejeitVoyager Suite, Mutungo Bina Rd, KampalaPO Box 582, KampalaTel: +256 312111312Cell: +256 772 827 310Fax: +256 312 273 698Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] www.equatorialwildsafaris.com
ESCAPE TOURS AND SAFARISContact Person: Medi LwereCynthia House 22kms to EntebbePO Box 25543, KampalaTel: +256 312 280 584Cell:+256 772 407 816Fax: +256 312 280 584Email: [email protected] www.escapeuganda.com
EXCLUSIVE AFRICA SAFARIS LTDContact Person: Mango AlexPlot 21 Namugongo Road PO Box 11887, KampalaTel: +256 772 887 484Cell: +256 (0)772 887 484Fax: +256 414286415 Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
FABULOUS AFRICA HOLIDAYS AND ADVENTURES - TRADING AS GORILLAS AND WILDLIFE SAFARISContact Person: Ivan Wassaaka KabengeSuite 15 Hotel Areba Building, Plot 488 Entebbe-Kampala Rd 12 Kms from Ebb AirportPO Box 10089, Kampala Tel: +256 772 979 425Cell: +256 392 080 994Email: info@gorillasandwildlifesafaris.comwww.gorillasandwildlifesafaris.com
FLY UGANDA KAMPALA AEROCLUBContact Person: Russell Barnes or Zara RourkeKAFTC, Kajjansi Airfield, Gate 1PO Box 24305, KampalaTel: +256 772 706107 Cell: +256 772 712557, +256 776 236 699Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
FOOTPRINTS TRAVEL CONSULTANTSContact Person: Bernard Alineitwe 3rd Floor, Northern Wing Social Security House, Jinja Rd PO Box 3489, KampalaTel: +256 414 237 751Cell: +256 782 774005Fax: +256 414 237 754Email: [email protected]
G&C TOURS (WILD FRONTIERS)Contact Person: Jane GoldringPlot 3 Nsamizi Close, EbbPO Box619, Entebbe Tel: +256 414321479Cell: +256 772 502 155Fax: +256 414 321 479Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
GATE 1 TOURS & TRAVEL LTDContact Person: Kansiime Muhangi SelgioRoom 034, Floor 2, Raja Chambers, Plot 3 Parliament AvePO Box 28148, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 258 817Cell: +256 (0)772 870 750Email: [email protected]
GEO SAFARIS LTDContact Person: Zahid Alam Unit 8, Plot 1-3 Coral Crescent, Lower Kololo TerracePO Box 2288, KampalaCell: +256 752 712 712Email: [email protected]; [email protected] Florence HashakaRoom 222, 2nd Floor, Span House Pilkington Rd, PO Box 36419Tel: +256 (0)312 106 484: +256 (0)782 996 126Email: [email protected]
GLOBAL INTERLINK TRAVEL SERVICESContact Person: Mohit K. Advani52 Grand Imperial Hotel Mall, 6 Nile AvePO Box 21600, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 235 233Cell: +256 (0)772 227 722Fax: +256 (0)414 231 858Email: [email protected]
GO UGANDA SAFARIS (CREDIT UGANDA SAFARIS)Contact Person: Miriam MagadaNsambya Babies Home PO Box 307888, KampalaTel: +256 (0)312 815 47Cell: +256 (0)772 663 066Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
TOUR OPERATORS
54
GORETTI’S TOURS & TRAVELContact Person: George HabomugishaPlot188 Entebbe-Kampala Road (Katabi-Kituburu)PO Box 44, EntebbeTel:+256 414 323 711Cell: +256 782738462, +256 793834062Fax: +256 414 323 711Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
GORILLA TOURS LTDContact Person: Ssempebwa Virgo ImmaculateRoom Q20, Plot 22/23 Quality Shopping Village, LubowaPO Box 29333, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 200 221Cell: +256 (0)772 370 263Fax: +256 (0)414 200 221Email: [email protected]
GORILLA TREK AFRICAContact Person: Mugisha MaryBukomero Seven Sisters Building, Nansna Wakiso DistrictPO Box 22754, KampalaCell: +256 776 107 004Email: [email protected]
GRACIOUS TOURS & TRAVEL LTDContact Person: Jacob LubegaPlot 410 Freedom city, Office no FC 50 Namasuba, Ebb Rd PO Box 5057, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 580 712Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
GREAT LAKES SAFARISContact Person: Amos WekesaMutungo Hill, Plot 1001, Block 243, Biina RdPO Box 33024, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 267 153Cell: +256 (0)772 426 368; 782 282 791; 702 426 368Fax: +256 (0)782 260 948Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
GREAT VALUE SAFARIS LTDContact Person: Maria KalingaSpan House No 108, Plot 1, Portal Ave, behind Tropical Africa BankTel: +256 (0)413 475 01; 312 272 236Cell: +256 (0)772 919 818; 752 692 286Fax: +256 (0)414 347 520Email: [email protected]
GREEN BREAKS UGANDA LTDContact Person: Ignatius NakisheroTopher Rd, Mbuya PO Box 548, KampalaTel: +256 (0)312 277 128Cell: +256 772 200 337; +256 712 330257Fax: +256 (0)414 122 [email protected]; [email protected]
GREEN LEAF TOURIST CLUBContact Person: Jack A. WadaShop no FF55, 1st floor, Forest Mall (next to Shoprite Lugogo), Kampala Plot 3A2/3A3, Sports Lane PO Box 27139, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 230 460/1Cell: +256 (0)772 230 461Fax: +256 (0)414 230 464Email: [email protected]
HOG SAFARISContact Person: Ben KatumbaPlot 268 Willis Rd, Namirembe Hill PO Box 8084, KampalaTel: +256 312 514 404Cell: +256 (0)752 656 142; 782 711 903Fax: +256 (0)414 534 134Email: [email protected]
INSIGHT SAFARI HOLIDAYSContact Person: Kiiza Kalamantu CalahPlot 19 Bukoto St PO Box 34639, KampalaTel: +256 (0)392 613 687; 414 580 794Email: [email protected]
INSTINCT SAFARISContact Person: Turyasingura RabanKisoro Rubuguri Town BoardCell: +256 756 712 844, +256 776 101 964Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
JET TOURS & TRAVEL LTDContact Person: Rio Henrietta DdunguPlot 3 Lumum Street PO Box 5710, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 345 158Fax: +256 (0)414 343 872Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
JEWEL SAFARIS LTDContact Person: Tindyebwa DonaPlot 4 Kimathi Avenue PO Box 26029, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 344 577Cell: +256 (0)772 867 943Email: [email protected]; www.ugandagorillatours.com
JIREH TOURS AND TRAVELContact Person: Stella MusanaPlot 33D, Main Street, JinjaPO Box 820, JinjaTel: +256 434 124 614Cell: +256 758 725 094Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
KABIZA WILDERNESS SAFARIS LTDContact Person:Jon Blanc and Geoffrey MugambwaPlot 472 Nsambya Babies home Millen-nium house Rm 14 upper FloorPO Box 36902, KampalaTel: +256 772 978 292Cell: +256 774 785 852Email: [email protected]
KASENYI GAME SAFARISContact Person: Diane NinsiimaAkright Road, Namugongo, Janda Muwunda House BPO Box 73673, Clocktower KampalaCell: +256 776 301 902Email:[email protected]; [email protected]
KAZINGA TOURS LTDContact Person: Musinguzi FelixKezironi House, Nawova Close, 406 Makamba Road, LungujjaPO Box 72370 KampalaTel: +256 414 274 457Cell: +256 (0)772 552 819; +256 702469730Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] www.kazingatours.com
KIBIRA SAFARIS TOURS & TRAVELContact Person: Dorothy OkoboiPlot 87, Kira Rd, Kamwokya PO Box 20058, KampalaTel: +256 414 695 501, +256 312 517 544Cell: +256 706 911 512, +256 777 025 826Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
KJONG SAFARIS LTDContact Person: Muhumuza StephenPlot 110 Bukoto St, KamwokyaPO Box 40289, KampalaTel: +256 (0)312 111 304Cell: +256 (0)772 370 233; 751 646 578Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
LAKE BASIN TOURS & TRAVEL LTDContact Person: Marriane MutagambwaPlot 2 Rotary Ave, Lugogo Bypass PO Box 5991 KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 253 633Cell: +256 752 628 757Fax: +256 (0)414 253 633Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
LAKE KITANDARA TOURS & TRAVELContact Person: Bonifence ByamukamaPlot 102, Nakawa Division, St Bruno Rd Luzira Port BellPO Box 40360, KampalaTel: +256 (0)312 287 250Cell: +256 (0)772 515 672; 782 399 235; 772 504 621Fax: +256 (0)312 287 250Email: [email protected]; www.kitandaratrekkingsafaris.com
LETS GO TRAVEL LTDContact Person: Kantu JoanGarden CityPO Box 22851, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 252 711Cell: +256 (0)772 614 193Fax: +256 (0)414 346 666Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
LIFETIME EXPERIENCE SAFARISContact Person: Jesse Tom KitanywaNsambya Rd, Plot 472PO Box 22989, KampalaCell: +256 777 201 697, +256 701 601 697Email: [email protected]
LIVINGSTONE AFRICAN SAFARISContact Person: Kalema LivingstonePlot No.3692 Kabanda Road, KirinyaPO Box 29023, KampalaTel: +256 (0)312 292 947Cell: +256 (0)772 459 379Email: [email protected]
M&M LINERS LTDContact Person: Mwine NormanRoom R01 6th floor, Impala House PO Box 11370 KampalaTel: +256 714 19 548 Cell: +256 392 960 018Email: [email protected]&mliners.com
MALISU TOURS & TRAVELContact Person: Elizabeth AgwangPlot No 26 Buganda Rd, Park Royal BuildingPO Box 26064, KampalaTel: +256 414 662 573Cell: +256 775 791 414Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
MAMALAND SAFARISContact Person: Tony Byarugaba Gaba Road, Kansanga KiwafuPO Box 28645, KampalaTel: +256 703 514 218Cell: +256 772 482 462Email: [email protected]
MANTANA AFRICAN SAFARISContact Person: Anthony FarrellPlot 39A, Berkeley Road, Entebbe PO Box 11060, KampalaTel: +256 414 321 552Cell: +256 772 401 391 +256 772 525 736 Fax: +256 414320152Email: [email protected]
MATOKE TOURS Contact Person: Coen van der HeijdenSenfuka Road 1, Muyenga KampalaPO Box 1881, KampalaTel: +256 (0)751 057 863Cell: +256 (0)782 374 667Fax: +256 312 202 907Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected];[email protected] www.travel-uganda.net
MERIT VACATIONSContact Person: Mugume RebeccaNamirembe, Mengo HillPO Box 26555, KampalaTel: +256 414 256 690Cell: +256 718 506 645, +256 702 925601Fax: +256 (0)414 256 689Email: [email protected]
55
MILES SAFARIS AND ADVENTUREContact Person: Kithuku Lazarus 4th floor, Rofra Hse, Gaba Rd KansngaPO Box 27228, Kampala Tel: +256 312 518 035 Email: [email protected] www.milessafaris.com
MOGAMBO, PASIÓN POR ÁFRICA, LTDContact Person: Francisco JavierPlot 93, Nawiro Swamp Rd Lugonjo, EntebbePO Box 232, EntebbeTel: +256 414 692 789Cell: +256 (0)775 491 492Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
MSAFIRI TOURSContact Person: Denis Kigongo Victor KRSNA Building, Third Floor Room 55, Kisementi-KamwokyaPO Box 25395, Kampala Tel: +44 800 612 5106Cell: +256 790 915 453; +256 777 851 283Email: [email protected], [email protected]
MURO TOURS AND TRAVELContact Person: Kisaka Samuel RobinsonKisasi-Bukoto Rd Opposite Sunrise Sunrise SupermarketPO Box 36625, KampalaCell: +256 774 513 436Email: [email protected]; [email protected] www.murotoursandtravel.com.
NATURE FRIENDLY SAFARISContact Person: Kasadha MichealSpan House 1st Floor Rm 218, Plot 1 Portal Avenue, Behing Workers Hse, KampalaPO Box 2951, KampalaTel: +256 414 692 461Cell: +256 712 123 715Email: [email protected]
NATURETRACK EXPEDITIONS (U) LTDContact Person: Jane OjaalePlot 9, Berkeley Road PO Box 727, EntebbeTel: +256 392 896 754, +256 774 132 967 Email: safari@naturetrack-expeditions.comwww.naturetrack-expeditions.com
NERIMA TOURS LTDContact Person: Mugeni Joseph FrancisLuzira Stage SixPO Box 8810, KampalaCell: +256 712 700 950Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
NETSPAN LTDContact Person: Elizabeth Ahaise Equatorial Hotel Shop No 42 PO Box 10532, Kampala Tel: +256 (0)414 348 766 Cell: +256 (0)772 704 326 Fax: +256 (0)414 348 766 Email: [email protected]
NILE RIVER EXPLORERSContact Person: Jon DahlPlot 41 Wilson AvePO Box 2155, JinjaTel: +256 (0)434 120 236Cell: +256 (0)772 422 373Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
NKURINGO WALKING SAFARIS (U) LTDContact Person: Lydia NanduduPlot 34 Kitinda, SOS Zone, PO Box 10152, KampalaCell: +256 (0)774 805 580Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
NSHONGI SAFARI TOURS & TRAVEL Contact Person: Susan Hakiza Plot 7 Market Street PO Box 23119, Kampala Tel: +256 414 237 775 Cell: +256 772349 040, +256 701 349 040Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
OSTRICH INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL SERVICES & SUPPLYContact Person: Lucie OloyaRaja Chambers, Floor 2 Rm 33, Plot 3 Parliamentary AvenuePO Box 4693, Kampala Tel: +256 782 519 111Cell: +256 414 259 370Email: [email protected]
PANARI SAFARISContact Person: Ms Jacqueline KiokoPlot 24/26, Shri Ganesh Plaza PO Box 1369, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 668 869Cell: +256 (0)714 668 307; 754 668 307Fax: +256 (0)414 252 099Email: [email protected]; [email protected] www.panarisafaris.com
PEARL AFRIC TRAVEL BUREAUContact Person: Innocent MandaPlot 3 Pilkington Rd, Nic Building, Phase 3 AnnexPO Box 1102, KampalaTel: +256 752 504 301Cell: +256 (0)752 250 4301Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] [email protected]
PEARL OF AFRICA TOURSContact Person: Kelley Mac-Tavish MungarNakumat Oasis Mall, B2, Lower Grd FloorPO Box 24254, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 340 533Cell: +256 (0)772 403 614Fax: +256 (0)414 236 255Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] [email protected]
PICNIC SAFARIS LTDContact Person: Samson BagonzaPlot 2-4, Kiwana Rd, Nakumatt Store Bukoto, PO Box 40379, KampalaCell: +256 (0)312 515 402Fax: +256 (0)414 256 963Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
PINNACLE AFRICA SAFARISContact Person: Francis KimbowaPlot 4,Stensera Rd off Nabunya Rd, Rubaga KampalaPO Box 27903, KampalaTel: +256 414 272 711Fax: +256 414272 761Email: [email protected] www.pinnaclesafaris.com
PLATINUM TOURS & TRAVELContact Person: Jaqueline KemirembeParliament Avenue Amadinda House 1st floor Rm 19PO Box 8102, KampalaCell: +256 712 841 143Fax: +256 414 349 158Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] www.platinumsafarisug.com
PREMIER SAFARIS LTDContact Person: Roni Madhvani96-98 5th street industrial area PO Box 22827, KampalaTel: +256 312 260 260/1; +256 414 255 992Cell: +256 772 657 767Fax: +256 (0)414 255 277Email: [email protected]
PRIMATE WATCH SAFARISContact Person: Nekesa FlorencePlot 4277 Namasuba-Ndejje Rd, off EbbPO Box 671, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 226 824Cell: +256 (0)772 616 107Email: [email protected]
PRIME SAFARIS & TOURSContact Person: Makanga SamuelA.K. Building, Gayaza Road off Kubili Round About Plot 191, Mobutu RdPO Box 16373, WandegeyaCell: +256 773 912 891Email: [email protected]
RAFT SUPREME (NALUBALE RAFTING)Contact Person: ThompsonPlot 17 Kissinja Rd, JinjaCell: +256 (0)782 638 938; 772 812 065Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
RED CHILLI HIDE AWAY LTDContact Person: Katarina BendikovaPlot 17 Gangram Rd, Mbuya PO Box 40288, KampalaTel: +256 (0)312 202 903Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
RUNGU TOURS LTDContact Person: Gordon Mawanda326 Mbarara, KampalaTel: +256 782 310 706 Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
S&N TRANSPORTERS, TOUR & TRAVELContact Person: Simbwa SirajePlot 194 Mobutu Rd, Next to Makindye Country ClubPO Box 26629, KampalaTel: +256 414 660 781Cell: +256 750 809 259; +256 781 968345Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
SAFARI 2 GORILLA TOURSContact Person: Aron MugishaPlot 2,Cohen A Rd, Tumushabe Amos House, BTN Jopfam Hotel and Kabale Golf CoursePO Box 568, Kabale Cell: +256 774 608 916 Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
SAFARI SKIESContact Person: Michael RourkeLake View Drive, Lubowa and Office Kajjansi Air FieldPO Box 63, KisubiCell: +256 782 209 186Email: [email protected]
SAFARI WILDZContact Person: Celia DippenaarPlot 6, Nsajja RdPO Box 1317, JinjaTel: +256 (0)775 201 119Cell: +256 (0)794 201 119Email: [email protected]
SENSE OF AFRICA - UGANDAContact Person: Steven Mukibi Plot 14 York Terrace KololoPO Box 7681, KampalaCell: +256 312 237 348 Email: [email protected]
SILVERBACK TRAVEL COMPANYContact Person: Philip MugasaPlot 28-A Golf Course View Wampewo AvenuePO Box 12632, KampalaCell: +256 791 938 823; +256 771 605385 Email: [email protected]
SIMBA AFRICA EXPEDITIONSContact Person: Nadduli MosesLubowa, off Twins Motel off Entebbe RdPO Box 26784, KampalaTel: +256 414 581 109Cell: +256 772 354 691Email: [email protected]
SITATUNGA SAFARIS & TRAVEL LTDContact Person: Pamela NabakozaMutesa 1 Close Buziga PO Box 12838, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 267 790Cell: +256 (0)772 667 246Fax: +256 (0)414 268 620Email: [email protected] www.safaris-in-uganda.com
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SPEEDWAY SAFARIS LTDContact Person: Noah SsonkoPlot 24 Suna/Nyanama Road off Kampala-Entebbe Airport HighwayPO Box 37400, KampalaTel: +256 701 807 807Cell: +256 715 700 700Email: [email protected]
SPEKE UGANDA HOLIDAYSContact Person: Tony Mulinde GracePlot 97, Bukoto StPO Box 809, KampalaCell: +256 (0)782 207 009Email: [email protected]
STEADY SAFARIS LTDContact Person: Steve Olaaka EsebiusPlot 1760 Kiira RdPO Box 22816, KampalaTel: +256 (0)312 286 495Cell: +256 782 471 149Fax: +256 (0)414 288 374Email: [email protected]
STEBAR SAFARIS LTDContact Person: Stella Bamu RugundaImperial Resort Beach Hotel, Entebbe PO Box 72579, Kampala Tel: +256 (0)414 323 123Cell: +256 (0)701 396 546Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
SUNGREEN LTDContact Person: Mugale AlexGeorge Street,Simbamanyo Hse, NakaseroPO Box 7393, KampalaTel: +256 392898074Cell: +256 772682431Email: [email protected]
SWAN AIR TOURS & TRAVELContact Person: Eugene Nsubuga WindtPlot 4 Kimathi AvePO Box 11206, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 250 966; 414 235 608Cell: +256 (0)772 750 965Fax: +256 (0)414 250 965Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
TERP TRAVEL LTD Contact Person: Abala Christine Plot 37/41 Port Bell PO Box 12339, Kampala Tel: +256 (0)414 220 702 Fax: +256 (0)414 220 929 Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
THE FAR HORIZONS U LTD (DATA POINT)Contact Person: Patrick ShahBlock 244, Plot 2409, Kiwafu Kansanga PO Box 37789, KampalaTel: +256 312 264 894/5Cell: +256 772 786 999; +256 783 583 923Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
THE TOURIST CENTREContact Person: Davids MutalyaPlot 2 Main Street-Post Office BuildingPO Box 1666, JinjaTel: +256 434 122 758Email: [email protected]; [email protected] www.jinjatouristcentre.co.ug
THE UGANDA SAFARI COMPANYContact Person: Jonathan WrightPlot 15 Binayomba Road, Luthuli Avenue, Bugoloobi PO Box 23825, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 251 182Cell: +256 787 433 710Fax: +256 (0)414 344 653Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
TORO’S PRIDE TOURS AND SAFARISContact Person: Opande PatrickRm 025, Ground Floor, Lugogo Forest Mall, KampalaPO Box 23689, KampalaCell: +256 392 080 999Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
TOUR AND TRAVEL CENTREContact Person: Mworozi StevenPlot 35-Lumumba Ave-NakaseroPO Box 2890, KampalaTel: +256 414 343 525 Fax: +256 414 346 555Email: [email protected], [email protected]
TRAVEL HEMISPHERES LTDContact Person: Bukenya R.FredNyanama RdPO Box 12112, KampalaTel: +256 414382357Cell: +256 772571698Email:[email protected]
TRAVEL2UGANDAContact Person: Gabriella BeltraminiKansanga,Gaba RoadPO Box 72702, Kampala Cell: +256 786 292880Email: [email protected] www.travel2uganda.com
TRAVELUST AFRICAN SAFARISContact Person: James KateebaBuziga Hill, PO Box 27943, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 578 209; +256 312 288 667Cell: +256 752 626 908,, +256 772 419 238Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
TREK EAST AFRICA SAFARISContact Person: Geoffrey BalukuBukoto, Off Kisasi Rd PO Box 16322, Kampala Tel: ‘+256 (0)702 975 961Cell: +256 (0)702 975 961Email: [email protected]; [email protected] www.trekeastafricasafaris.com
UGANDA EXPERIENCE SAFARISContact Person: Malcom RankinUnit 5, Trust House 20 Airport Road PO Box 534, EntebbeTel: +256 (0)414 320 569; 414 321 583Cell: +256 (0)774 040 170Email: [email protected]
UGANDA HOLIDAY & BUSINESS SOLUTIONSContact Person: Omalla AndrewAmber House, Ground Floor PO Box 8329, KampalaTel: +256 312292448Cell: +256 772480931Fax: +256 (0)412 371 81Email: [email protected]
UGANDA TRAVEL BUREAU 2004 LTDContact Person: Deo Lubega1098 Buziga Rise PO Box 5619, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 335 335; 312 232 555Cell: +256 712 890 369; +256 772 232 555Fax: +256 (0)414 236 998Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
UGANDA WILDLIFE SAFARISContact Person: Christian WethPlot 643 Semwogere Close, Bukoto PO Box 70513, Clock Tower KampalaTel: +256 414 501 018 Fax: +256 414 501 019Email: [email protected] www.uganda-wildlife-safaris.com
VENTURE UGANDA LTDContact Person: Lesley HarrisPlot 19 off Martyrsway Ntinda Rd PO Box 40244, NakawaTel: +256 312 202 033Cell: +256 772 440 899Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
VIEW AFRICA TOUR SPECIALISTS Contact Person: Wilson H KabeeraNtinda, Nob View HotelPO Box 33273, KampalaCell: +256 712 387 996Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
VINCE TOURS & TRAVEL LTDContact Person: Patrick TourolRm 208, Teachers House, Bombo Rd PO Box 37053, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 341 470Cell: +256 (0)712 810 666Fax: +256 (0)414 341 470Email: [email protected]
VIRUNGA ADVENTURE TOURSContact Person: Hanyurwa ShebaKisoroPO Box 280, KisoroCell: +256772435148Email: [email protected]
VIVA SAFARISContact Person: Vivian BurkePlot 6 Colville Street PO Box 2549, KampalaCell: +256 755 465 020Email: [email protected]
VOLCANOES SAFARISContact Person: Yusuf Mubiru27 Lumumba Avenue, Nakasero PO Box 22818, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 346 464; 312 263 823Cell: +256 (0)772 741 718Fax: +256 (0)414 341 718; 312 265 248Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
VOYAGER AFRICAN SAFARIS LTDContact Person: Joselyn AkulluHotel Africana (Office Annex); Voyager Suite, Plot 2–4 Wampewo Avenue KololoPO Box 36453, KampalaTel: +256 (0)414 268 675; 312 283 987 Cell: +256 (0)712 441 832Fax: +256 (0)414 286 269Email: [email protected]
WHISTLING DUCK TOURS & TRAVEL LTDContact Person: Helmut ButtnerPlot 16, Kisinja RoadPO Box 53, JinjaTel: +256 (0)431 221 68Cell: +256 (0)751 767 605Fax: +256 (0)434 122 168Email: [email protected]
WIJEMA TOURS & TRAVEL Contact Person: William Utingcwinyu Chonga Plot 13/15 Kamwokya Branch, First Floor opp Acacia Mall. Hqtrs in Mbalwa PO Box 7684, Kampala Cell: +256 312270860Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
WILD WHISPERS AFRICAContact Person: Asiimwe RachealPlot 19 Bukoto Street, Kampala UgandaPO Box 36566, KampalaTel: +256 312 107 945Cell: +256 793503426Email: [email protected]
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