Uganda is a land-locked country on the northern shores of Lake Victoria in the center of Africa. The equator runs through the country. The north is semi arid except where the Albert Nile runs through it. The rest of the country is extremely fertile. There are some fine parks and wildlife, attractive countryside with tremendous mountain ranges, lakes, rivers and waterfalls; and a rich cultural background among the people.


Uganda's recent history, however, was scarred by a descent into chaos and anarchy from the early 1970s until 1986. Untold numbers died; skilled people of both African and Asian origin fled overseas; residents of towns sought refuge into the countryside eking out a bare survival existence. Institutions of excellence, such as the famous Makerere University, collapsed. Buildings, roads, factories and farms were destroyed, or fell into disrepair.

Happily, Uganda has made a tremendous recovery under President Museveni. Law and order has been restored, it is a secure country for travelers once again, the economy is booming, facilities for tourists are mostly restored and it is once again a fine place to visit.

Entebbe International Airport which is 45km (35 mins) way from Kampala is the major air gateway to Uganda. Taxis into the city cost from US$5-35 depending on the destination. The main hotels offer shuttle buses to and from the airport, and bookings for some of these hotels can be made at their offices at the airport.


Visas, Customs and Airport tax
You are required to have an entry visa ($30 single entry) if you are not from the following countries: Angola, Comoros, Eritrea, Kenya, Malawi, Mauritius, Madagascar, Rwanda, Seychelles, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Antigua, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Fiji, Gambia, Grenada, Jamaica, Lesotho, Malta, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Solomon Islands, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Tonga, Vanuatu, Italy (only diplomatic passports) and Cyprus.

You may import personal effects like binoculars, cameras and films temporarily onto the country without a permit but a customs bond will be required for video equipment, musical instruments, radios and slide projectors and tape recorders during your stay. Consumables in small amounts of one liter of alcohol, one liter of perfume, fifty cigars, 200 cigarettes or quarter kilogram of tobacco will be allowed duty free. Obscene literature is not allowed. Pets accompanied by a recent health certificate and special permission form the Commissioner of Customs will be allowed. These are, however, not allowed into the National Parks/Reserves.


Weather
Uganda is sunny most of the year, with temperature rarely rising above 29ºC. The heavy rain is March-May, light rainy season November-December, through there will always be a few hours of sunshine.


Health
It is recommended that visitors to Uganda take anti malaria medication. The use of mosquito repellents and nets are recommended for use especially those taking out camping holidays. Like other countries in the region, malaria is endemic in certain parts of the country and it is vital that necessary precautions are taken if you intend to enter a malaria zone. If you are traveling to neighboring countries, i.e. Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda and DR Congo, anti-malaria tablets are crucial. Consult a doctor or pharmacist as to which prophylactics are the most suitable. Some need only be taken 24 hours prior to entry into the malaria zones while others must be taken for at least 4-6 weeks after leaving the area.


Hours of Business, Banking and Finance
Business and offices: Monday - Friday, 8am - 12.45pm and 2pm - 5pm.
Banks: Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 3.00pm (bureau de change close later, all major hotels have forex desks).
Shops: Generally Monday - Saturday, 8am-5/6pm.


Currency
Uganda's currency is based on the decimal system. The unit is the Uganda "Shilling"', divided into denominations of 50, 100, 200 and, 500 for coins, while paper notes are available in denominations of 1000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000 and 50,000. There are no restrictions on the movement of currency into or out of Uganda for current transactions.


Transport
Air: Several companies now offer flights internally, including Eagle Air and United Airlines. It is also possible to charter light aircraft to fly to airstrips around the country. These are located in East (Tororo and Moroto); North (Soroti, Lira, Gulu, Paraa - (for Murchison Falls National Park), Pakuba (for Kidepo National Park); West Kasese - (for Queen Elizabeth National Park), South West (Mbarara).

Train: Only operates a freight service.

Road: There are good roads and on the main routes, and travel is comfortable and swift, Buses are safer, slower and cheaper than other modes. Most buses and matatus wait until they are full before departure. That can take along time on Sunday and holidays. Matatus are minibuses; or pick-up trucks converted to carry passengers, or cars or station wagons carrying passengers. They are privately owned, and operate on the basis of departing from the terminus when full. Minibuses are fine for short journeys.

Taxis are generally available in large towns. Always advisable to agree the fare before departure. In small towns "taxi" mopeds and bicycles are common. These can be useful for travel where public transport is scarce, for example Entebbe/Kasenyi or Sanga/Lake Mburo National Park.

Car Hire: There is a wide choice of tariffs and some extra charges you might expect. Prices are often quoted in US$, but can be paid in local currency, converted at a rate determined by the local operative. Drivers are on set asset in case of breakdown, but some can be obstructive and morose. Self drive saloon US$50-60 per day. Toyota Landcruiser including driver, US$130 per day.


Water: There are steamers and ferries and small cargo boast the sail between ports on the shores of Lake Victoria and the Ssese Islands Mwanza and Kisumu in Kenya and Bukoba in Tanzania.


Language
The Official language is English. Luganda and Swahili are also widely spoken.


Electricity
230/245 Volts at 50Hz. British-style plugs with three pins are used.


Food & Drink
Uganda being well endowed with agricultural resources combined with the conducive climate a wide range of food products. Bananas, finger millet, maize, sorghum, rice, wheat, sweet potatoes, Irish potatoes and cassava grown in abundance. Coffee and tea is also readily available in most hotels, restaurants or cafes. Do not leave Uganda without tasting Matoke(stewed bananas)!


Communication
Telephone services are spread across the country. Some mobile phone companies operate rent-a- phone service for short periods. Internet and e-mail services can also be found in the major towns.


Cultural Etiquette
It is not possible to list all of the characteristics of a culture. However, visitors to Uganda are advised to seek information about some of the Ugandan cultural patterns that foreigners are most likely to encounter in regard to social greetings, food and eating, bargaining, manner of dress and certain practices and beliefs.


Greeting
The exchange of greeting is key to successful interaction with Ugandans at every level, whether in the market, on the street, in the office or over the telephone, people are taken aback if you do not greet first before beginning a conversation even if you just want to ask a question. Greeting serves as an icebreaker and will make the person you greet feel better disposed towards you. Greeting in English is recommended.

"Hello" will do. Ugandans spend a great amount of time exchanging greetings back and forth before actually broaching a subject. Shaking hands is also apart of the greeting process. People shake hands as often as they see each other during different times of the day. Women are not normally expected to shake hands when greeting especially in the villages.

They may acknowledge an elder or a man by kneeling to greet. Do not get surprised when you are also served with food while kneeling! Ugandans follow a certain protocol for greeting elders: greeting the elder with a lot of respect and normally avoiding eye contact. Also physical affection for a loved one or emotion is general is not openly shown in public.


Dress
Visitors should not walk in town or public areas in their swimming wear as this is against the African Culture and offends a large section of community. Nude bathing is not allowed. Ugandans appreciate decent behavior devoid of immoral tendencies. Visitors are therefore advised to show respect to the local people, their culture and tradition. The locals do not appreciate the western style of sophistication very much.


Laws and Respect for Authority
Visitors are expected to show respect for the Head of State and other leaders or uniformed officials of the Public Service. Tearing or burning of President's portrait is an offence. Avoid infringing the law especially the foreign exchange control act, traffic regulations and laws against prostitution, sexual abuse and taking or trafficking in drugs.

Foreign offenders are usually arraigned and fined or ordered to leave the country. Smoking opium or cannabis sativa, also local called "bhang"', is forbidden and anyone trying to import it, hidden in his or her baggage puts himself/herself in serious trouble.


Dos and Don'ts
Uganda is rightly called the pearl of Africa, the people are friendly and most parts of the country are trouble free and can be visited without problems. However, although Uganda claims the lowest crime rate in East Africa, there is sometimes the exception. A few simple precautions will help you ensure that your visit is trouble free. For your own peace of mind it is advisable that you follow the following simple guidelines.

• Do not carry large amounts of cash with you or leave it in your hotel room.
• Do not leave your valuables or any luggage exposed in the back of your car or on the roof.
• Camp only at approved sites and never in secluded areas.
• Watch your handbag when shopping or in crowded streets, restaurants or pubs.
• Park in controlled parking areas and always keep your car locked.
• When visiting tourist sites, do not wander off the trail or the environs of the site unless you are sure you know where you are going.
• Do not wear expensive jewelery or watches while walking in crowded areas particularly at local markets or generally at night.
In any emergency dial 999 and ask for police assistance. However, if you observe these simple precautions you are unlikely to need them.


People and Culture
Ugandan society is still predominantly rural with 80% of the population living in rural areas. Traditional customs and lifestyle are still alive in many parts of the country, which adds spice to the tourist experience. Ugandans generally have a reputation for openness, and a friendly attitude to visitors. There are various peoples that make up Uganda and each group has their own traditional customs and ways of life.

These customs are kept alive by many colorful ceremonies making specific historical events or celebrating the seasons of the year. Spontaneous dancing and music are typical of life in Uganda and visitors are often welcome to observe these ceremonies - although as a courtesy, tourists should always seek permission before taking photographs. In addition to the rich cultural experiences, tourists can choose souvenirs from countless local traditional art pieces and handcrafts.

These are sold in most villages along the roads, and also at specific tourist curio shops within the capital. Besides, there are also a number of cultural sites, which tourists will be able to visit. These include the Kasubi Royal Tombs and a host of their historical sites in may different parts of the country.


Lakes and Rivers
Uganda has been called a land of lakes because almost a third of the country is covered by water. Lake Victoria, the largest in African, dominates the southern border of the country while Lake Edward and Albert lie to the west. Linked to Lake Edward is the Kazinga Channel, Lake Mburo, 230km to the west of Kampala is the only lake entirely within a National Park. In the Centre of Uganda, Lakes Kwania and Kyoga are fed by the waters of the River Nile. Other lakes include Lake Bunyonyi near Kabale and Lake Bisina in the shadow of Mt. Elgon, as well as over 1000 tiny crater lakes high in the mountains. Uganda's fresh water lakes offer opportunities for water activities and sports. An example is white water rafting, which has caught on as a popular tourist activity, especially on the River Nile. The country now attracts 500 rafters every month. Lake Victoria is now also being increasingly used for lake cruises. Other popular activities include sport fishing and sailing.


Flora and Fauna
Uganda is a country of exceptional diversity. It lies at the overall between tropical East African savannah and the West African rainforest zones. Seven of Africa's 18 plant kingdoms are represented in Uganda, which is more than any other country on the continent. The tropical rain forests of Western Uganda have unique flora and fauna, some of which are endangered species. As part of the emphasis on eco-tourism and in response to increasing demand from tourists, new nature trails have been developed in virtually every protected area. These trails offer an unhurried way of exploring the wilderness and getting near to nature.


Bird Life
The birding opportunities in Uganda are impressive. With over 1,000 recorded already, Uganda has almost half the species known on the African continent and over 10% of those on record throughout the entire world. Uganda's equatorial location, combined with the attitude and great variety of terrain types provide an overwhelming array of opportunities for keen birders. The Queen Elizabeth National Park alone has 550 avian species.
Top birding spots in Uganda:
• Mabamba Swamp: Shoebill stork - access opposite the Mpanga forest 30kms west of Kampala of Kampala.
• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Buhoma-Ruhija-Black bee-eater, African Green Broadbill.
Budongo forest:Kaniyo Pabidi - Purveys Illdopsis, Shinning Blue Kingfisher, White Crested Turaco.
• Mgahinga National Park: Ruwenzori Traco, Red tufted Malachite Sunbird.
Murchison Falls: Bat hawk over the falls at sunset, Red fronted bee eaters, Denhams bustard, Shoebill.
• Mabira Forest: Nahan. S Francolin and various forest species.
• Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary: Black billed Turaco, White spotted crake
• Lake Mburo: Papyrus Gonelek
• Ruwenzori Mountians: various sunbird species
• Semliki National park: White Crested Sunbird species.
• Kibale Forest: Green Breasted Pitta
Uganda's 10 most commonly sought after birds
• Shoebill
• African Green broadbill
• Green-breasted Pitta
• Nahan's Francolin
• Brown-chested Plover
• Karamoja Apalis
• Black bee-eater
• Rwenzori Turaco
• Red-fronted Antpecker
• Purvell's llladopsis


Gorilla tracking:
There are only about 650 individual gorillas left in the whole world and Uganda has more than 50% of these. Gorilla tracking is therefore a captivating and lifetime experience involving guided walks in the forest wilderness in search of these great apes.


Chimpanzee tracking:
Visiting our cousins is another very interesting experience. The way they feed, climb, respond to humans, mate, care of their young ones, is just phenomenal. The chimp habituation team goes in the morning and or evening to see how they make and unmake their beds. Visitors are guided to experience this.


Game and Scenery viewing:
Uganda has a diversity of wildlife. A game drive is full of great glimpses of the indigenous wildlife/scenery. We boast of diverse habitats ranging from savannah, wetlands, forests and mountains ecosystem, and corresponding diverse species.


Bird viewing:
Uganda is a world birding destination. Located at midway of the African continent, Uganda attracts migrants from the north and south and is the richest country for birds in Africa. Out of 1,500 bird species found in east Africa, over 1,000 species of these exist in Uganda, compared to about 700 in the whole of Europe. Some of the exciting birds you will view include birds of water, land shore, scrub and woodland, forest and birds of the open plain.


Sport Fishing:
This refers to fishing for pleasure with a single rod, reel, or line where any fish caught are not for sale or barter. Although fishing is an old practice in Uganda, sport fishing is a relatively new tourist product but has started with full vigor.


Forest and primate walks:
In most of our National parks and wildlife reserves, we develop a network of trails for nature walks. Experience the quietness of the wildness with sweet natural songs from birds and gentle winds in the leaves of tropical rain forest depending of ones interest, there are short and long distance day or night walk, hiking, primate walk, springs/bank etc. If interested in a true forest walk, visit Uganda.


Mountaineering:
Ever heard of snow at the equator then experience the 5,119m high snow covered Rwenzori Mountains also known as the mountains of the moon and protected as a National park but also known as the mountains of the moon and protected as a National Park but also a world Heritage site. A trip into the Rwenzoris is a lifetime adventure and an exhilarating and rewarding experience that takes you about 7 days/nights. There is also the famous volcanic Mount Elgon (4,321 m), also a national park at the boarder with Kenya where mountaineering can be experienced and may include cross boarder tourism into Kenya. At the top, it has a beautiful and a large caldera of 40 km.



Hiking:
This is yet another self-rewarding activity that you can engage in at Mt. Elgon or Mt. Mgahinga which is also home to the famous gorillas. Particularly exciting are the Virunga Volcanoes, which offers three extinct volcanoes (Mt. Sabyino 3669m, Mt. Gahinga 3474m and Mt. Muhavura 4127m). At mt. Sabyinyo, a hike up to the top of the 3 peaks guarantees you to be in Rwanda, Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda at the same time.