Uganda Fact File
Geography
Location: Eastern Africa, west of Kenya
Geographic coordinates: 1 00 N, 32 00 E
Map references: Africa
Area: total: 236,040 sq km
land: 199,710 sq km
water: 36,330 sq km
Border countries: Democratic Republic of the Congo 765 km, Kenya 933 km, Rwanda 169 km, Sudan 435 km, Tanzania 396 km
Coastline: 0 km (landlocked)
Climate: tropical; generally rainy with two dry seasons (December to February, June to August); semiarid in northeast
Terrain: mostly plateau with rim of mountains
Elevation extremes:lowest point: Lake Albert 621 m
highest point: Margherita Peak on Mount Stanley 5,110 m
Natural Resources: copper, cobalt, hydropower, limestone, salt, arable land
Land use:arable land: 25%
permanent crops: 9%
permanent pastures: 9%
forests and woodland: 28%
other: 29% (1993 est.)
PEOPLE
Population:23,317,560
Age structure:0-14 years: 51% (male 5,986,645; female 5,936,754)
15-64 years: 47% (male 5,443,613; female 5,448,563)
65 years and over: 2% (male 240,819; female 261,166) (2000 est.)
Population Growth Rate:2.72% (2000 est.)
Birth Rate:48.04 births/1,000 population (2000 est.)
Death Rate: 18.44 deaths/1,000 population (2000 est.)
WHY UGANDA?
'The Pearl of Africa'
Uganda is for the adventurous traveler. Go gorilla tracking in the impenetrable Bwindi forest and come close to families of primates. The churning rapids of the River Nile provides a high voltage of adrenaline to those who dare go white water rafting. Away from adventure, Uganda is a haven for bird lovers, nature walk enthusiasts and sight seeing followers. Uganda is an evergreen paradise and it’s no wonder that it’s fondly referred to as 'The Pearl of Africa'.
White Water Rafting in Uganda
The thrill of churning rapids is one of the newest adventures in Uganda. As the River Nile starts its 6,600 km journey to the Mediterranean, it alternates between a placid course and swirling white water rapids. White water rafting is available near the Bujagali Falls all the way to Lake Kyoga, and within Murchison Falls National Park
Gorilla Tracking in Uganda
In many parts of the country, and on any day, visitors can enjoy a forest trek to view families of primates. Something rarely available elsewhere in Africa, it is one of Uganda's greatest attractions
Walking Safaris in Uganda
Uganda is a walker's paradise with a wide range of choices. Most national parks have nature trails (in areas not habituated by predators) that require varying degrees of energy, while several lakes have trails that meander around their banks. In the national parks, rangers and guides are usually available. In the rural areas, local hotels will be happy to point out the best walking spot, and recommend a guide.
Trekking in Uganda
For the more adventurous and those with more energy, several trails require experience, and again the choice is wide. For those who wish to trek for several days and camp on the way, the Karamoja, the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains (the Central Circuit Trail) and the Sasa River Trail on Mount Elgon are popular areas.
Mountain Climbing in Mount Elgon, Rwenzoris, Virunga
Mounts Elgon, the Rwenzoris and Virunga are excellent regions for medium and easy climbs. Some routes do not need special equipment, particularly if you don't attempt the summits, and guides and porters are available locally, but some experience is necessary.
Birdwatching
Uganda is an ornithologist's delight with more than 3,463 species of birds. All national parks are havens for birdlife, and wetlands and savannahs support both indigenous and migratory birds.
Fishing
In a country, one-third of the which is under water (either as lakes, rivers or wetlands) fishing is a delight. Chance your skill with the tilapia in Lake Victoria, or the Nile Perch (weighing sometimes up to 100 kgs). In the mountain rivers, trout rise to the fly, while crater lakes provide additional sporting opportunings.
Accommodation
In Kampala, a number of good hotels are available to choose from to fit every budget. Elsewhere across the country and in the National Parks, hotels and inns are generally available, but quality of service and quantity of rooms vary greatly. Afri Tours takes care in booking the best accommodation available for your safaris. All of our prepared itineraries start from Kampala. If you require pre-or post -safari hotel bookings in Kampala or airport transfers to/from Entebbe, contact us so that we can make these arrangements for you. Reservations should be made in advance.
Airport
Most guests to Uganda arrive by air, landing at the Entebbe International Airport, approximately 45 minutes drive from the capital Kampala. Transfers to and from the airport are available for any size group. Your Departure tax is incorporated in your tickets.
Airlines
Many Airlines visit Uganda regularly include: Air Tanzania, British Airways, Egypt Air, Ethiopian Airlines, Gulf Air, Kenya Airways, SN Brussels (formally Sabena) and South African Airways. There are daily connections of Nairobi. There are also several reputable domestic charter companies to choose from.
Alcohol
Several brand of local beer are available, including Bell, Club and Nile Special. There are some locally made spirits but most spirits and wines are imported and are readily available at slightly elevated prices. There are no longer limitations on the drinking of alcohol in Uganda.
Banking
Several international banks operate in Uganda including Barclays, Standard Chartered and Stanbic. Many local banks and forex bureaux also operate across the country. Generally the banking hours are 8.30A.M. to 3:00 P.M., Monday to Friday, though some institutions are open longer hours and on Saturdays. There are no longer restrictions on foreign exchange transactions and currency is easily convertible. Use only USD notes dated after 1990.
Climate
Uganda enjoys ideal weather conditions ranging from the warmth of the lowlands to the coolness of the highlands. Mean temperatures are between 21C and 31 C all the year around. Wet seasons are March - May and October - November.
Clothing
Light summer clothing supplemented by a sweater or jacket should be sufficient all year round. Usually dressing is informal. Cotton slacks and flat-heeled comfortable walking shoes are recommended on safari. Don't forget to bring a hat for sun protection and a swimsuit. Umbrellas and Raincoats are recommended in the wet seasons, but not essential. Request additional details at the time of booking.
Credit Cards
AMEX, Visa and MasterCard are only accepted at a few choice establishments in Kampala and some lodges. Although At Barclays you can get cash on your credit card.
Currency
The Uganda Shilling is the currency used. It is issued in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500 (coins) and 1000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000 UgShs notes. The rates vary, but are readily available from banks and forex bureaux. The rate as of Jan 2002 was $1 = 1750 UgShs.
Drinking Water
We recommend that you do not drink tap water. Most hotels and restaurants provide previously boiled drinking water. Mineral water is also available.
Foods
Delicious fresh tropical fruits and vegetables are plentiful throughout the country. A wide range of dishes, both traditional and international, are served in the hotels and restaurants.
Health requirements
Certificates are required for vaccination against yellow fever. Check current medical advice on typhoid, cholera and hepatitis. Malarial risk is general and prophylactics should be taken. It is advisable to start anti-malaria medications 10 days prior to arrival and continue with the same for a minimum of 14 days after leaving East Africa.
Language
The official language is English though Kiswahili and Luganda are commonly spoken throughout the country.
Photography
Though some types of film are available in many of the lodges, it is advisable to bring films and batteries with you or to purchase them in Kampala. A pair of binoculars will prove extremely useful for the keen game viewer. There is no charge for photography
Security
Precautions should be taken as in any major city. Unless safety deposit boxes are available in your hotel or lodge, always carry travel documents, travellers cheques, cash and other valuable with you at all times. We recommend that you do not walk late in the night but instead take a taxi.
Sports Facilities
There are a variety of sports available in the Kampala and Entebbe city centres - squash, golf, tennis, etc. Fishing, on Lake Victoria or the Nile River, and White Water Rafting from Bujagali Falls is also popular. Arrangements can be made for these activities depending on individual's interests.
Transport
The roads are generally in fair condition. Four-wheel drive vehicles may be required for up-country use, especially in the national park during the rainy seasons. We maintain a fleet of saloon cars; mini-buses and four wheel drive vehicles, with driver/guides. Please enquire for further details and tariffs.
VISAS:
Visas are generally available at all entry points including Entebbe airport, they cost $30 (January 2002).
A Final Word
Things in Africa may not work in the same way as home; some times there are inexplicable delays. We appreciate your patience. Sit back and enjoy your safari. Everything will work out in the end.
PLACES OF INTEREST
KAMPALA:
This city of 750,000 inhabitants is the largest in Uganda and is the capital. Situated on seven major hills, several areas command fantastic views of the surroundings, including Lake Victoria.
Kampala is the political and commercial hub of Uganda, and the people are friendly and communicative. It is easy to move about the city centre and, surprisingly, the visitor does not need to be overly concerned about security, but should as with all countries be sensible. Expansion is rapid and new clubs and restaurants open regularly.
A guided tour will point out the highlights including Kasubi tombs, Makerere University and other areas of cultural interest. After a city tour, we recommend at least half a day for shopping and exploring on your own. This will let you meet the friendly indigenous people and get a true feeling of life in a large African city.
ENTEBBE:
This city, best known for Uganda's International Airport in the movie "Raid on Entebbe “remains a sleepy town. Entebbe means seat in the local language, Luganda, and indeed was the seat of the colonial government prior to Independence in 1962.
The Botanical Gardens, located here, acted as the backdrop for several Tarzan movies. This reserve on the shores of Lake Victoria still has a tremendous variety of flora. Adjacent to the gardens is the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, where lost and wounded animals are rehabilitated.
It takes about 45 minutes to travel the 37kms from the airport to Kampala. The road winds near the lakeshore in several places and passes through many villages.
JINJA:
This city was previously the industrial capital of Uganda. It is best known for the source of the Nile at the now submerged Rippon Falls. Owen Falls Dam, located just downstream from the source of the Nile, provides power for Uganda and parts of Kenya. Nearby is Bujagali Falls, where several rapids are situated close together. From here enjoy the scenery or take a white water rafting trip on the mighty Nile.
