FAST FACTS:

Area: 236 580 sq km
Population: 40 000 million
Capital: Nairobi
Official Language:  
Religion: 
Currency: 

SELECT FROM OUR LIST BELOW.

1) Uganda regional Information.
2) Getting there.
3) Getting around;  a) By road,  
                                 b) By Air,  
                                 c) By Train, 
                                 d) On Foot.
4) The People.
5) Safety.
6) Weather.
7) Clothes.
8) What to take.
9) Health.
10) Photography.
11) Communications.
12) National dress.
13) National flag.

UGANDA - COUNTRY PROFILE

Landlocked Uganda, astride the equator in East Africa, is 236 580 square kilometres of beautiful, serene, green plateau situated between the eastern and Western branches of the Great Rift Valley. It is truly a country blessed. More Than 2,000 millimetres (80 inches) of rain falls on its ever-fertile lands each Year, and this on a continent often struggling against drought and famine. Lakes, rivers, and streams - including Lake Victoria, the world’s second-largest Freshwater lake, and the legendary Nile River - cover 25 per cent of its surface. Its lush rainforests, savannah, and semi-desert areas are home to a splendid Array of wildlife, birdlife, and flora. The biggest blessing of all, perhaps, is That it is populated with friendly, hardy folk who have somehow withstood a Brutal, humiliating and devastating civil war for almost two decades and have Come out on top.

As Uganda continues to enjoy peace and security, it is fast regaining its past Glory as a tourist haven - although, thankfully, the tourist do not yet come in The droves that so often spoil the wildlife spectacle in other parts of East Africa. Thousands of Asians and foreigners who were expelled from the Country in the early 1970s have been allowed to return and repossess their Properties, estates, factories and shops. New foreign investors from all over the World have descended on Uganda to benefit from the new opportunities Available, Ugandans, too, are reaping the benefits.

As a result, you’ll find the facilities of modern living available almost Everywhere in the urban areas: telecommunications, health services, and Frequent road, rail and air links. And - again, unlike many other African Countries - the services generally work, although telecommunications outside Kampala are none too proven yet. Uganda now boasts one of the widest ranges Of accommodation found anywhere on the continent - from posh, luxurious International hotels like the Kampala Sheraton to self-service cottages and Campsites. The country offers comfort for every kind of visitor, be they a Budget-conscious backpacker or a ‘no-expenses-spared’ executive.

While Uganda undergoes its socio-economic and political transformation, the Government jealously guards the country’s natural heritage. The laws regarding The preservation of forests, rivers and lakes, wild animals, and sites of Historical importance are strictly enforced so that both visitors and citizens can Enjoy them - now and in the future.

Getting there

Because of the discounted fares offered, many travellers find Nairobi the best Gateway in and out of East Africa. It is a relatively simple matter to get from Nairobi to Entebbe ( where Uganda’s international airport is located, about a Half-hour’s drive from Kampala) or Kampala, travelling either by air (but book In advance, as fligthts are often crowded), road, or train. So consider the Nairobi connection first.

Uganda Airlines, the national carrier, flies Boeing 737s directly from Entebbe International Airport once or twice a day to Nairobi.

It also flies to Kigali four times a week.

Dubai three times a week, Lusaka and Johannesburg twice a week, and Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro and Harare (via Lusaka) once a week. They offer both Business and economy class.

Other airlines flying in and out of Entebbe include Kenya Airways six times a Week. Air Twanda and Sabena four times a week, Air Burundi, British Airways, and Ethiopian Airlines three times a week, Air France, Air Tanzania, Alliance, Gulf Air, and InterAir twice a week, and Air India. Egyptair, and Royal Swazi once a week.

Landlocked Uganda can also be reached on all sides by road, but check first Before you try coming in via the Rwanda or Sudan borders, as the political and Security situation in those countries may make crossing virtually impossible - and Sometimes dangerous. At the time of writing, both borders were open. From Kenya, Uganda can be entered at the two main border posts of Malaba and Busia.

There are also border points at Suam (near Mount Elgon), Karita and Amudat, Although they are rarely used and ther is not much transport on the other side After you cross. The Tanzania border crossings are at Mutukula and Kikagati.

The two main crossing points from Zaire are at Bunagana (between Rutshuru And Kisoro) and Kasindi (between Beni and Katwe) in the south, although the Ishasha border post is also open. Further north, there are crossing points at Goli And Vurra, although they are little used and it is advisable to check on the Security situation in the north of Uganda before attempting to cross, rogue Elements still roam this area and trouble occasionally flares up.

If your budget doesn’t allow you to fly from Nairobi to Entebbe, consider the Bus.

Buses run daily between Nairobi and the Uganda border at very reasonable cost

Head for the most convenient border post, Malaba, where you can then get a Matatu (a type of commuter taxi, often a minibus) to Tororo, which takes about 20 minutes, and then onward from there into Kampala.

An even better bet is the relatively new shuttle bus, a smaller, much more Comfortable service that runs between Kampala and Nairobi and back again Three times a week. The shuttle bus can be booked through either New Lines Limited in Kampala or Huzara Travel in Nairobi and costs the local currency Equivalent of about US4 40 one way, which includes lunch and refreshments During the trip.

For the more adventurous, an interesting method of two-wheeled ‘public Transport’ has developed at the Kenya-Uganda border, the boda boda ‘taxi’ so Named because it originates at the country’s borders. It is actually a cyclist Who will take you on the carrier at the back of his bicycle to points some 10 to 20 kilometres (six to 12 miles) inside the border. Uganda residents returning From a visit across the border in Kenya like this form of transport, as they can Travel along even small paths that  would not accommodate even the hardiest Four-wheel-drive vehicle. Even during the rainy seasons, when some of the Roads are impassable, the boda boda will reach its  destination. As time goes By the bicycles are being replaced by motorcycles or motor scooters - but the Bicycles live on, going deeper into the countryside, giving affordable service Where it is required.

If you like to travel by rail, you can take the Nairobi-Kampala train (every Tuesday) or the rwice-weekly train from Nairobi to Malaba. With the renewal Oe ties between the East African countries, plans are to continue to expand this Line, and it is hoped that soon travel by rail will be possible, all the way from Mombasa to Kasese.

Although there are no passenger boat connections between Uganda and Kenya These days, it is possible to travel across Lake Victoria from Tanzania, using The Port Bell ferry, which connects Mwanza to Port Bell (Kampala) on its Regular once-a-week service.

National of the following countries do not need visas to enter Uganda: Antigua And Barbuda, Angola, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Bahrain, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Botswana, Burundi, Canada, Comoros, Cyprus, Denmark, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, Finland, France, Gambia, Germany, Greece, Grenada, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lesotho, Libya, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Malta, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Portugal, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Korea, Spain, St Lucia, St Vincent and Grenadines, Sudan, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tanzania, Tonga, Tuvalu, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, USA, Vanuatu, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Nationals of countries other than those listed above should contact their nearest Ugandan embassy to obtain visas in advance of their visit; otherwise, visas are Also obtainable when entering the country.

Getting around

By road

Driving in Uganda can be enjoyable and is really the best way to enjoy the Glorious scenery, vegetation, and wildlife. And Finding your way around the Country should present no problem at all.

Uganda’s ordinance maps, obtainable from the Department o the Surveyor General in Entebbe and Uganda Tourist Board in Kampala, are good and kept Constantly updated. You can obtain maps of the whole country or specific Regions, as well as street maps of the major cities and towns.

The Uganda Motorists Association also produces an excellent map detailing all The major roads and distances between major centres.

Driving is on the left. If you have a regonized and valid licence you can drive Up to 90 days without applying for an  international or Ugandan licence.

Uganda has one of the longest tarmacked  road systems in East Africa - about

6,230 kilometres (3,870 miles) - and the government is always busy repairing The roads, recognizing the importance of linking the countryside to the major Towns and cities.

Some 22,100 kilometres (13,730 miles) of secondary and dirt roads are in Relatively good condition as well. Be warned during the rainy seasons (generally March-April and October-November, although there are regional Variations) many of the dirt roads become impassable - only four-wheeled-Drive vehicles will be lucky enough to extricate themselves from the mud.

Signposting is frequent (at least on main roads) and often includes distances. Along the main routes, a distance marker is placed every kilometre on either Side of the road, so whichever direction you travel you will know how far you Have gone and how far you have to go. In an effort to promote their products (And provide a service), several tobacco and beer companies have put up road Signposts, including street names, and distance signs on some major routes.

Whatever your destination, you are generally never far from contact with People (who are always happy to help) or some method of communication.

Generally, the standard of driving reflects the quality of the roads, as they are in Much better shape than those in Kenya, for instance, the accident rate is much Lower. Fatal accidents do occur, however watch out in particular for long-Distance matatus, which tend to speed. And be careful when dealing with Matatu drivers they can be rough and impolite.

It must also be remebered that, as a landlocked country, Uganda is a major Transit route for heavy-laden trucks going-provided borders are open - to and From Rwanda, Burundi, Zaire, Sudan, and sometimes even northern Tanzania. If you come upon a convoy of these trucks, be very cautious when overtaking; They’re bigger than you are and often don’t see you. Make sure you’ve got lots Of clear road ahead.

When in national parks and game sanctuaries, or extremely remote areas

Four-wheel-drive is really the only way to get around - particularly during or Just after the rains. Most tour organizations provide experienced drivers and Well maintained vehicles-let them handle the driving.

For the independent and budget-minded traveller, major towns are linked by Frequent and-by Western standards-extremely cheap scheduled ‘luxury’ bus Services. In addition, private (but licensed) small taxis are found in all cities And towns around every corner. They may not have meters-if they don’t make Sure you negotiate the fare before you board. The rates should be reasonable, if You’re a hard bargainer.

Should you have an accident, Ugandans are always ready to assist. You can Also get temporary cover with the Kenya-based Africa Air Rescue or Medivac Which have offices in Kampala. For a small fee, you are guaranteed quick Rescue and transpotation to any nearby competent hospital.

By Air

Uganda has a well-developed domestic air network. Although Uganda Airways Does not currently fly domestic routes, three air charter companies operate Domestic flights to almost any part of the country from Entebbe International Airport. Other carriers located in Kampala include Air Uganda, CEI Aviation, Speedbird and Tropical Charters and Tours.

By Train

Uganda boast approximately 1,300 kilometres (810 miles) of railway track Once considered to be one of the best rail services in Africa. However, the rail Network is not being rehabilitated as quickly as the road network. Currently The Uganda Railways Corporation operates one passenger train a week to Western Uganda up to Kasese and three a week from Tororo north-west to Pakwach via Mbale, Soroti, Lira. And Gulu. If you don’t care about time or Comfort, this is the way to go, but expect frequent delays, breakdowns, and Spartan carriages.

The cargo train service, however, has been restored to almost 90 per cent Efficiency to cater for exports and imports through the ports of Mombasa in Kenya and Dar es Salaam in Tanzania.

On Foot

There is little need to explore Uganda on foot, although the walking safaris Offered by many tour operators in Uganda are a superb experience. A Considerable amout of hiking is involved if you want to see the chimpanzees Or mountain gorillas in the dense forests of south-western Uganda. Hiking and Climbing in Ruwenzori Mountains National Park, on the fabled Mountains of The Moon, is also an unforgettable adventure. Make sure to bring your own Hiking boots or shoes you won’t be able to buy them once you’re in the country

The People

Ugandans are warm, friendly, and full of humour despite the traumatic period Of wars and great suffering they went through. They are anxious to make Friends with visitors and are continually asking guests whetherthey are Comfortable and enjoying themselves. If the answer is ‘no’ they will go to any Length to please and assist in any way possible. In a way, they seem to be Reciprocating the warm reception many of them got from countries near and Far when they ere forced into exile. One  of the proverbs in many of the Bantu Dialects is ‘Omusajja gyagenda gyasanga banne’ literally meaning ‘Wherever a Man goes he will find friendly people.’

A large number of people speak English, which was introduced into the contry In the 1880s, when what is now Uganda was under British administration. Some Ugandans speak the ‘Queen;s English’ much better than the native English people do. Although English and Swahili have been recognized as the Country’s official languages by the National Constitution, promulgated in November 1995, English is the only true lingua franca, as Swaili is seldom Spoken. Ugandans-particularly those who have never received any formal Education-also speak some 30 indugenous languages, largely in the rural areas. The two main indigenous languages spoken in the country are Luganda and Luo.

English is the main language of instructin in most schools and colleges. Swahili Is rarely spoken anywhere except in the market-places and by the country;s Armed forces, including the regular police and army. Although you might Expect Swahili to be more widely spoken and be  unifying factor among the Three main East African nations of Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, it still Evokes bad memories for many people in Uganda, whose property was looted By some undisciplined Tanzanian soldiers back in the late 1970s, who were Meant to assist with the country’s reconstruction (see History, Part One)

Ordinarily, all of the country’s etnic groups study, work, play together Everywhere, despite ththeir differences.

Unity in diversity is slowly but surely emerging. Neptoism or ‘brotherization’ Employing people of the same tribe, even if they have no other qualification is However, still accepted and tolerated.

Uganda’s police, modelled in the British mould, are smart, disiplined, Courteous, and always helpful to visitors in need of direction or advice. However, because of the relatively low wages they receive, some policemen (Particularly traffic ppolice) are prone to demanding chai literally meaning ‘tea’ In Swahili,the word has evolved into Swahili slang for a bribe. But keep in Mind that offering a bribe is a criminal offence. In recent years, a number of Street children and beggars have begun to take up positions in the country’s Larger cities and towns, particularly Kampala, but not to the extent found in Most other African countries. They are the unfortunate victims of Uganda’s Recent past.

Although there is an air of cooperation and amicability (and the past, if not Forgotten, is forgiven), the European, Asian, and African communities tend to Maintain the social barriers that have divided them for so long. The return of Expropriated properties, estates and shops to their former owners-including Asians and Europeans who had been expelled by Amin’s regime-is resented by Some Ugandans who profited from this exodus. The majority however, have Welcomed the return of Asians and Europeans, who are rehabilitating their Properties, providing employment, and restoring service that had become extint.

Keep in mind that, as in most developing countries, the head of state Commands a gret deal more respect than his counterparts in the West-an Attitude particularly inherent in African paternalistic cultures.

Cultural leaders or monarchies are also regarded with great esteem and respect

Including prostrating oneself before them to demonstrate one’s loyalty. Useless Visitors want to become involved in a political brouhah, they should refrain From criticizing either the president or any of the kings, for instance.

Though strongly conservative in attitudes, social habits, and dress, there Remains a remarkable air of freedom about this newly liberated society. Ugandans speak their mind easily on whatever they consider are the ills Affecting their country. After the resoration of peace and tranquillity and Human rights, a number of newspapers and publications have sprung up, with All sorts of shades of opinion. While the government has exhibited tolerance And given licence to constructive criticism, there have been cases where Newsmen have been taken to court when the government felt were reporting ‘Utter lies’.

Ugandans have suffered immensely from civil wars,  and are all united in Their Determination to avoid any circumstance that could lead to another conflict. For virtually two decades, the country’s neighbours developed their economies And societies, leaving Uganda sadly lagging behind. Ugandans are now Working hard to catch up, and they welcome anyone who comes to assist them Particularly tourists.

Safety

Although peace and stability-and the rule of law-have been restored, crime Does exist. In isolated area on the country’s borders disgruntled rebel groups Commit acts of thuggery. In particular, check the security situation before you Travel anywhere north of Murhison Falls National Park and Karamoja. Uganda, however, is much better policed than it was a few years back, and Visitors observing sensible precautions should enjoy a trouble-free holiday

Do not leave valuables in your car (if you do, lock them away, out of sight, in The boot or glove compartment).

Walking at night in all major centres is reasonably safe. There have been a few Instances of handbags and wristwatches being snatched, and occasional Muggings, so be sensible about what you wear (don’t flaunt gold jewellery) And keep your eyes open-just as you would in any major city.

Weather

Nature has endowed Uganda with one of the most pleasant climates in the World. Situated as it is around Lake Victoria traversed with innumerable other Lakes and rivers, including the mighty Nile and featuring an interesting Combination of  mountains, semi-desert, rainforest, and savannah, Uganda Actually has a variety of climates, if you don’t like one, you won’t have to Travel far to find one you do like.

The area within an 80 to 100-kilometre (50-to-60-mile) radius of Lake Victoria Sees the rain fall almost every day, but in general there are two major rainfalls In February and end in April, while the short rains start falling in October and Run until about the middle of December. (Some people believe that there must Always be a shower to bless Christmas.) Thereafter, ther is much heat from the Sun beating down from a cloudless sky. Humidity is generally low.

As you move away from Lake Victoria, the rains become less and less, and the Countryside more arid. South-west Uganda, with its mountainous regions Around Kigezi, has been dubbed ‘ The Switzerland of Africa’ with a pleasant Slightly cooler, climate. Not far away rise the Ruwenzori Mountains, known as The Mountains of the Moon, which, although they lie just north of the equator Have snow-capped peaks.

Throughout the year sunshine averages about 6 to 10 hours a day, with the least Amount naturally coming during the rainy season. The weather is usually Summer-like, with no big contrasts. Day temperatures range between 25 Degrees and 34 degrees C (77 degree-99 degree F). In January, the hottest Month, temeratures may be in the region of 35 degreesC (95 degreesF). Even During the rainy seasons, the temperatures can be very high, which causes Heavy tropical thunderstorms. It is considerably warmer all year round in the Remote Northern and north-eastern parts of the country

Clothes

Lightweight and casual clothing is ideal for most of the year. In areas of higher Altitude, or anywhere during the rainy seasons in the evenings, light woollen Clothing may be needed to keep warm.

Despite the year-round warm weather, conservative Ugandan civil servants and Technocrats are used to going to the office in suit and tie. If visitors intend to Call on anyone in an office for business deal or a social outing, they should Carry some good, more formal clothes to keep up with the local standards.

Women will find that it is more the norm in the major cities of Kampala or  Entebbe to wear skirts and dresses, or lightweight trousers, when walking about Rather than jeans or shorts. Dress modestly. Men, too, would be better off Wearing trousre when in town, and should never walk around shirtless in Public places.

Remember that the sun on the equator is intense-bring and wear a hat whenever Possible, and use sunscreen lotion.

What to take

Imported goods are becoming more widely available, but at a price. It is best to Come as self-sufficient as possible, at least when it comes to your photoraphic Equipment and film, contact lenses and supplies, and the like. If you wear Glasses, bring a spare pair. Also bring any special medications you may need.

If you come to Uganda, you are more than likely going to be doing a bit of Game nd bird viewing, so it is best to bring along a good pair of binoculars to  Increase your enjoyment of your safari.

Health

Visitors from areas infected with yellow fever and cholera require certificates Of inoculation against these diseases.

Malaria and bilharzia are endemic. All visitors are advised to take an Antimalarial prophylactic beginning two weeks before their arrival and Continuing for six weeks after their departure. However, don’t assume that will Do the traick. Many strains of malaria are resistant to prophylaxis . The best Precaution is to prevent being bitten at all. Use mosquito repellent, wear long Trousres, thick socks, and long-sleeved shirts in the evenings, and sleep under Mosquito nets where possible.

Remember that the symptoms of malaria (severe headache, fever, flu-like aches And pains) will not show  up until 10 to 14 days or more after you’ve been Bitten. If you’re still in Uganda, local doctors are quick to recognize the Symptoms and know the treatments well so take their advice.

If you’re already back at home, alert your doctor that you’ve been in a malarial Area and insist that a blood check for malaria is generally easily treated if Caught early but can be fatal if left untreated.

To avoid bilharzia (caused by an infectious worm found in still or slowly  Moving, well-oxygenated, well-vegetated fresh water), simply avoid swimming Or bathing in streams, rivers, and lakes (although fast flowing mountain Streams are of low risk).

Doctors also recommend visitors to take sensible precautions against tetanus, P Polio, cholera, typhoid and paratyphoid. A gamma globulin injection provides Some protection against possible infection by hepatitis and is well worth taking. That said, the incidence of these diseases and infections is not high. But Prevention is better than cure.

There is prostitution in Uganda, especially in the two major cities of Kampala And Jinja, and there is also evidence of drug  trafficking and addiction. Only a Fool would ignore the widespread existence of Aids. The government estimates That at least two million Ugandans may be HIV positive. All blood donations However, are HIV-tested, and sterilizing needles is normal medical procedure. There is a very high level of AIDS-awareness in the country, including an AIDS Commission that, together with Unicef, monitors the disease and Improves awareness and precautions in schools.

Tap water in all urban areas, whether from reservoirs or boreholes, is treated And said to be safe to drink. However, visitors, being prone to travellers’ Diarrhoea as they are, would probaly be better off to at least boil the water. If This is not possible, bottled, treated mineral water should be used, which is Available in the major towns. Safari operators carry sufficient supplies of water For bush travel, but if you are travelling in remote areas on your own, it is Advisable to carry your own bottled water, or water purification apparatus or Pills.

Uganda has reasonable health services, with some good government and private Hospitals and clinics in the major cities. There are some first-class private or Missionary-run hospitals in Kampala and Jinja with resident specialists and Surgeons. There are also excellent dentists and opticians. Medical treatment, However, is expensive. Visitors would be advised to take out medical insurance Cover before they leave home. This can be obtained in Uganda, but usually at a Higher premium than you would pay in Europe or North America.

Visitors may wish to get temporary health cover from the Kenyan-based Africa Air Rescue or Medivac, which have offices in Kampala. This guarantees you Quick rescue and transportation to any nearby competent hospital.

There is no shortage of chemists or drug stores in Uganda, all staffed by Qualified pharmacists. If you are taking medication, however, it is Recommended that you carry sufficient quantities to cover the duration of your Stay. Most drugs are available, but many will have unfamiliar brand names. If Your specific prescription is unavailable, the pharmacist or doctor will often Prescribe a suitable alternative.

Pharmacies are open during normal weekday shopping hours, from about 0900 To 1700 (some, but not all, close for lunch).

Selected pharmacies in the main centres of Kampala and Jinja also offer a night Service.

Photography

Film is expensive and visitors are advised to carry all the film they estimate that They will need. Remember that this is one of the most photogenic countries in The world. Stock up with plenty of film in reserve so that you will not be Disappointed. Also keep in mind that higher speed films (800/1600 ASA) are Needed in the heavily forested areas, such as where the mountain gorillas and Chimpanzees are found. Make sure to bring extra batteries for your camera, too And a spare lens cap.

There are plenty of photo processing shops in the major centres of Uganda, Such as Kampala and Jinja, but the processing is generally costly and of poor Quality. Plan on doing your developing at home. Areas where photography is Restricted or forbidden are clearly marked. Obey the rules. It is also inadvisable To photograph government buildings and other installations. In addition, it is Not a good idea to take a photograph of a policeman or soldier without prior Permission and that goes for members of the general public, as well it is simply Good manners ask first.

Communications

From Kampala, international postal telephone, and fax services are good, but Don’t expect them to be so in the rest of the country. If you make an International call from a hotel, remember that it will generally tack on at least Another 50 percent to the cost of the call. Internal telephone connections are Also reasonably good, and greatly improved in the last few years.

Computer-based digital tchnologies, satellite systems, and wireless Communications are beginning to transform Uganda.

Callers can also now make local and international calls from Kampala pay Phones by using prepaid phone cards, and the company providing that service Is also licensed to provide leased voice and data lines, Internet access, and e-Mail services.

Sending a letter or postcard from Uganda is cheap and pretty reliable, but takes Time. The main post office does maintain a poste restante system, but it is Chaotic, disorganised, bureaucratic, and terribly time consuming. It is said However, that you do get your post in the end, so if you’ve got a lot of patience, It’s probably worth it.

When to go

As Uganda has a summer-like climate throughout the year, it is ideal to visit at Any time. Be ware, however, that during the rainy seasons the upcountry roads Especially those to the more remote game parks may be quite muddy and Challenging to negotiate, although the four-wheel-drive vehicles used by most Safari companies should be able to get through.

If yo’re planning on hiking or camping in the Ruwenzoris, try to avoid the rains Which occur in April-May and October-November. Otherwise, the rainy season Can be as pleasant a time to visit as any other, with the temperatures slightly Cooler after a shower and the sun still shining on and off each day.

On Safari

Uganda is beginning to develop an excellent tourist infrastructure, with first-Rate (for Africa) roads and communication facilities. Although these were Neglected and some even destroyed during the wars, it is remarkable how the Government, in collaboration with the private sector, has moved quickly to Restore and rehabilitate them. Virtually everthing is now in place to welcome The visitor.

If you are travelling alone in the remote areas of the country, particularly the Thickly forested regions, it is a good idea to carry some money in small notes in Case of emergency, such as paying helpers to push you out of the mud holes.

Always carry essential spare parts with you, as well as a useful number of tools.

For more detailed advice, consult the excellent Uganda Motorist Association, Which maintains offices in both Kampala and Jinja.

Uganda’s national game, forest, and recreational  parks are indeed some of the Spectacular showpieces Africa has to offer.

They do have regulations regarding off-the-road driving, game watching, and So on, which are clearly stated at the entrance gates of the parks or on leaflets Supplied by the tourist offices. Please observe theseregulations for the sake of Your own safety and an enjoyable safari.

Always remember that although some animals have become accustomed to the Presence of people and appear friendly, they are still wild animals nd not fully Domesticated. You are asked not to feed the wild animals from the window of Your vehicle, let alone the window of your  lodge in the middle of the park. Neither should you make a lot of noise to attract their attention.

Never deviate from designated routes for that closer camera shot, and never get Out of your vehicle except at designated points. Close all windows and zippers When you leave your room or tent, you would not like to find unwanted guest Had paid you a visit when you return.

Many visitors believe that their enjoyment is related to the number of species they can see within the shortest possible time. As an alternative, spend time Observing them and learning their habits and characteristic behaviour. Chances Are you will find this much mor exciting and rewarding.

Mountaineering safaris to the Ruwenzori mountains (Mountains of the Moon) In the western Rift Valley, are now becoming a favourite Ugandan expedition. Similar safaris can also be organised to climb Mount Elgon in the east, sharing The border with Kenya.

Apart from national parks set up to protect wildlife, Uganda has gazetted forest And other natural areas into national parks for the preservation of the Vegetation and even insects such as the country’s many rare, beautiful Butterflies that abound in them.

There are islands in Lake Victoria where humans have not yet spoiled the Natural habitats of rare birds and wildlife. Visitors who want to discover these Simply have to take the boat ride from Bukakata port, near Masaka town, to the Ssese Islands. Some of the islands have never even been occupied by humans, They are ready to explore.

Wildlife aside, any trip to Uganda should include a look into the ancient Caltures of the Buganda kingdom by visiting the burial grounds of the Kabakas (Kings) of Kampala. You can also attend the king’s court at Bulange and Observe the rich royal etiquette a unique African experience.

Above all, always keep your camera loaded and ready for action. Uganda is full Of photogenic surprises just waiting to happen before your eyes.

National dress

Although technically  there is no common national dress, as each of Uganda’s Many tribes has its own traditional clothing, the most often seen is that of the Largest ethnic group in the country, the Baganda.

Baganda men wear long-sleeved kanzu a long, white floor-length tunic, worn With a long-sleeved jacket, while the women wear a gomesi, a long dress with a Multicoloured cloth tied around it at the waist. The two forms of dress Originated in the Buganda kingdom and have been adopted in many parts of the Country. This traditional dress is worn on important cultural occasions, Particularly at an adience with the king, a wedding, a burial ceremony or the Formal introduction of a potential bridegroom at the home of his bride-to-be.

National flag

The colourful flag of the Republic of Uganda features the country’s national Bird, the crowned crane, in a white circle on a background of broad black, Yellow and red stripes, black representing the people of the country, yellow the Sunshine that blesses the land, and red the blood spilled in the fight for Independence.