Uganda
A country of contrasts
UGANDA
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inston Churchill once referred to Uganda as the “Pearl of Africa”, and it’s easy to see why. According to the Ugandan Tourism Board, this East African country “offers some of the continent’s most diverse wildlife viewing, dramatic landscapes, and immersive
cultural experiences”. It’s where you’ll discover Africa’s largest mountain range, the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains, and vast Lake Victoria, the source of the River Nile. Uganda is home to more than half the world’s population of mountain gorillas. Trekking to observe them
in their indigenous habitat, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, tops many bucket lists. Head to the remote Kidepo Valley National Park to come face with “The Big Five” – lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo – on safari. Jinja
With its glacial peaks, vast lakes and primeval forests, Uganda is a country of contrasts Writer: Dani Redd | Project Manager: Joe Palliser
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BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE is East Africa’s adventure capital, and a renowned spot for white water rafting on the Nile. For hundreds of years, Uganda has been a cultural melting pot with more than 50 distinct ethnic groups, speaking an array of indigenous languages. The country’s oldest inhabitants are
Batwa and Bambuti people – descendants of ancient hunter-gatherer cultures. As a result, Ugandans have a diverse cultural life which permeates everything from food to festivals – their national dish is matooke, steamed and mashed green banana served with groundnut sauce and meat.
Uganda was named by UK Business Insider as the “world’s most welcoming country to raise a family.” Tourists are also guaranteed a warm welcome here, and there’s something for everyone, whether you’re interested in visiting ancient monuments or adrenaline-fuelled safaris.
Africa Outlook issue 77 | 3
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The Business End SINCE THE 1990S, following a period of political instability, Uganda’s economy has been growing rapidly. The country has been praised for its high rates of growth by organisations such as the World Bank. In 1997 it was selected as one of only a few countries to receive debt relief, thanks to its economic reforms. This has allowed Uganda to focus on eradicating poverty and expanding its infrastructure. Uganda’s economy is predominantly agricultural. However, tourism is also a major part of the economy, with visitors flocking to experience the country’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. It accounts for 7.7 percent of the country’s GDP, and is also a major source of employment, accounting for more than 667,600 jobs.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a popular tourist attraction
FACTS & FIGURES The tourism sector continues to expand. The number of visitors to Uganda increased from 1.4 million in 2017 to over 1.5 million in 2018, the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) also aiming to expand into emerging markets such as
Languages: English, Swahili Area: 241,551 km2 Population (2018): 38,787,000 GDP (2015): $25.89 billion Currency: Ugandan Shilling Time zone: East Africa Time Dialling code: +256 Internet TLD: .ug Climate: Tropical Highest recorded temperature: 38.5˚C 4 | Africa Outlook issue 77
Japan and increase provision for both budget and luxury travellers. However, according to the organisation’s CEO, Lily Ajarova, the board also wants ‘to promote domestic tourism and have more Ugandans visit Uganda”.
Refresh, Relax, Enjoy. ACTIVITES
• Safaris in Lake Mburo National Park • Night safari (game drive) • Walking Safari • Boat trip on Lake Mburo • Birding in Lake Mburo National Park • Horse Riding • Sport fishing • Hiking in and around the park • Bush picnics
Mburo Safari Lodge boasts of its excellent accommodations which comprises the main Lodge, cottages and honeymoon house all raised on a wooden platform and covered by a grass-thatched roof, perfectly blending with the natural environment, stylishly and thoughtfully designed for your absolute comfort, convenience, and pleasure. Each is equipped with clean private bathrooms with hot showers and toilets, private balconies, handcrafted wooden furniture, comfortable king-sized beds, mosquito nets and wardrobes all opening out to their private balconies. Some cottages have a full kitchen. All rooms are privately situated, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you.
www.mburosafarilodge.com
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Top Community Experiences
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COMMUNITY TOURISM EXPERIENCES, such as village walks and cultural performances, allow visitors a unique insight into Ugandan society, while buying local crafts and food products also contributes to the economic wellbeing of communities. Africa Outlook recommends the following projects.
1. RIDE 4 A WOMEN This organisation was set up in 2009 to empower women in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest through learning skills and developing careers. The programme initially began by renting bicycles to tourists to generate capital. Tourists can now visit 6 | Africa Outlook issue 77
the organisation’s lodges to learn how to cook Ugandan dishes, harvest crops and pedal sew from local women.
2. THE BATWA EXPERIENCE The Batwa tribe no longer live in their ancestral home of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, but visitors can still learn about their heritage and traditions on a rainforest hike with Batwa guides. Learn how the tribe lived, hunted and foraged, and listen to their ancient songs and legends.
3. BUNYANGABU BEEKEEPERS COOPERATIVE This organisation in Rubona promotes sustainable beekeeping for economic
development. Visitors to the apiary will learn about the beekeeping process, and how it benefits the community. Tours also include a beeswax candle-making workshop and a honey tasting session.
4. RWENZORI TURACO VIEW VILLAGE WALK Mihunga is a village in the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains, inhabited by the Bakonzo tribe for over three centuries. The local community tourism group, Turaco View, takes visitors on a cultural tour of the village. The tour includes a demonstration from a traditional healer, a trip to the local school and a basket-weaving demonstration.
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Uganda Tourism Board THE UGANDA TOURISM Board was established in 1994. It aims to promote and market Uganda across the region and internationally. It is also tasked with promoting quality assurance in tourist facilities through training, grading and classification, promoting tourism investment, supporting and acting as the liaison for the private sector in the development of tourism. The broader goals of UTB are to increase the contribution of tourism earnings and GDP; improve Uganda’s competitiveness as an international tourism destination; and increase Uganda’s share of Africa’s and World tourism market. Here, Ajarova answers our questions.
efforts, especially the mountain gorilla, which has come off the ‘critically endangered’ list in our country. We also aim to highlight Uganda’s stunning natural landscapes and the array of outdoor activities on offer, including trekking, game safaris and white-water rafting. AfO: How would you say Uganda has developed in recent years as a business travel hub and what are the key reasons behind its growing appeal?
LA: Our tourism industry has grown steadily over the years, and we have had remarkable developments in the sector. Currently, tourism is the number one foreign exchange earner for the country and one of the key sectors offering employment. The tourism sector is expanding, and we should see even more growth as we begin to put into effect the key focus areas identified in the Tourism Master Plan.
Africa Outlook (AfO): Since inception, how has the Uganda Tourism Board developed and progressed in terms of its key objectives and the messages it tries to get across? Lily Ajarova (LA): One of UTB’s key objectives is to promote the country’s abundant wildlife and conservation
AfO: Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Uganda? LA: Uganda is one of the most beautiful countries in Africa, offering some of the continent’s most diverse wildlife viewing, dramatic landscapes, and immersive cultural experiences. Safari opportunities are abound in savannah, forest, and wetland settings throughout 10 national parks. Visitors can come face to face with “The Big Five” – lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo – as well as giraffe, zebra, chimpanzee, hippopotamus, crocodile, and more than half of all bird species found in Africa. 8 | Africa Outlook issue 77
BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE
The World Tourism Organisation has ranked Uganda third among the world’s top 10 most promising tourism destinations
AfO: Are there any specific attractions, landmarks or places to eat and drink that you would recommend? LA: Among Uganda’s extraordinary natural attractions are the snowcapped Ruwenzori Mountains, expansive Lake Victoria, which forms the source of the Nile River; and Murchison Falls National Park. The unspoilt Kidepo Valley National Park was voted the third best national park in Africa by CNN in 2013. Jinja is East Africa’s adventure capital, home to some of the world’s best white-water rafting. A visit to our capital, Kampala, is also recommended. It has some
great attractions, such as Kabaka’s Palace and Uganda Museum. AfO: What are the best ways of getting around the country? LA: Uganda has several domestic scheduled operators who fly to various locations across the country. Public and private transport is available to various parts of the country, including marine transport on Lake Victoria. The railway line is also currently being redeveloped to foster transport within the East African region. AfO: What trends are transforming the tourism industry in Uganda at present? How are you responding to these trends? LA: We are aiming to increase revenue from domestic tourism by finding ways of making travel easy and affordable for Ugandans. The challenge we had in the past was that many Ugandans felt that tourism was only for foreigners. We are thus looking at changing this mind-set.
Internationally, our focus is on promoting Uganda to different source markets: United Kingdom, North America, and the German-speaking countries; Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. We are also ensuring that we have a presence in emerging markets, such as the Gulf States, Japan and China. We are moving away from a sole focus on high-end tourists, to Africa Outlook issue 77 | 9
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expanding provision for budget and mid-level travellers, as well as FITs (free independent travellers). AfO: How do you see Uganda developing as a business travel hub over the next year to two years? LA: Uganda is positioning as a MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and events) destination. We have conference venues spread over the entire country and are also in the process of setting up a convention bureau. Between February 4-6, 2020, we will be hosting our annual Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo. The expo brings together tourism and travel trade partners from Uganda, East Africa and the world over to foster tourism knowledge and business exchange. AfO: Are there any plans or projects 10 | Africa Outlook issue 77
in the pipeline that you wish to highlight? LA: We will focus on developing tourism across the country, reaching out to various stakeholders to ensure every Ugandan is involved in tourism through either investment or service provision. This is with the key objective to increase foreign exchange, development and employment. In April 2020, we will launch a strategic plan targeting marketing, product development, investment and quality assurance. We believe this will drive our sector and ultimately the economy forward onto where we aspire to be. AfO: Are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Uganda? LA: Year-on-year growth in the number of tourist arrivals has been steadily
increasing and our aim is to maintain this momentum. In the short term, our target is to grow numbers from the current 1.7 million tourists per year to four million by 2021. We have lots of diversity which other countries do not have. The World Tourism Organisation has ranked Uganda third among the world’s top 10 most promising tourism destinations. Both CondÊ Nast Traveler and National Geographic have praised our national parks, and we won a Gold Award for best exhibitor at the Africa Travels Indaba Fair in South Africa. We believe we are on the right path to helping Uganda achieve her economic aspirations. Uganda Tourism Board Tel: +256 785 489 481 info@ugandatourismassociation.org
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Rafiki Lodge Is Located In Sipi Falls, Kapchorwa & Offers A Wide Range Of Rooms
Mutanda Lake Resort Mutanda Lake Resort offers comfortable accommodation combined with the most beautiful views on the planet. The resort makes a perfect base for gorilla trackers, volcano hikers and bird lovers, as well as those looking for a secluded place in nature.
www.mutandalakeresort.com info@mutandalakeresort.com
illatrips.net g o rSASO UGANDA SAFARIS P.O.Box 33461
Kampala - Uganda
SASO Uganda Safaris is a Ugandan based Tours and Safari Company established to deliver enriching African holiday experiences to tourists visiting Uganda and Rwanda.
WE ARE SPECIALISTS IN: • Gorilla treks • Chimpanzee treks • Game viewing Safaris /drives • Birding safaris • Photo safaris • Cultural tours • Nature safaris • Adventure safaris • safari car hire services • Hotel accommodation bookings • Booking Gorilla and chimpanzee permits
Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday, 9am - 6pm T+256 775 564 060 | info@gorillatrips.net sasougandasafaris@gmail.com www.gorillatrips.net
Rafiki Lodge Sipi consists of Family Cottages, Bandas and Basic Rooms accommodations for our guests, each individually designed with a thoughtful perspective view of Sipi Falls. Within this picturesque setting you will experience intimate fireside dining, a comfortable reading lounge, an airy veranda, and a bar stocked with beers, wines, and a fine selection of single malt whisky.
T +256 757 449 360 | +256 783 817 748 | info@rafikilodgesipi.com www.rafikilodgesipi.com
avannah Resort Hotel is located between Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, 43km away and Queen Elizabeth National ParkIshasha sector, 8km away, the hotel is the perfect launch pad for viewing two of the world’s rare animals: mountain gorillas and the tree climbing lions.
Added attractions are 18 Hole golf course, swimming pool, sauna and steam bath, bird watching in our extensive gardens and games for children.
Savannah Resort Hotel Reservations office, 4th Floor, Nakawa House, UAP Business Park Nakawa, Kampala M: +256 753 486 207 | +256 753 486 208 E: reservations@savannahresorthotel.com Savannah Resort Hotel, P.O. Box 30 Kihihi, Kanungu- Uganda L: +256 777 076 086 |+256 751 382 916 W: www.savannahresorthotel.com
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In Focus: Kampala KAMPALA IS SITUATED in the heart of the former Buganda Kingdom, on the shores of Lake Victoria. Once built across seven hills, it is now one of Africa’s most rapidly expanding cities, with a population of over 1,650,000. The ancient and the modern collide in this bustling, multicultural city. Visit the UNESCO-designated Kasubi Tombs, where the Buganda Kings were buried in buildings with large thatched roofs. Browse the ethnological and natural history exhibitions at the Uganda Museum, where you can learn about the country’s colourful past. The city is also home to numerous cultural festivals, including the Bayimba International Festival of Music and Arts.
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The Ugandan capital is renowned for its nightlife, offering everything from cocktail bars to salsa clubs. Centenary Park, with its maze of bars and central location, is a popular haunt for locals and tourists, while the city also has a great dining scene, whether you’re looking for local street food or international restaurants. Head away from the crowded city centre to Nakasero Hill, the city’s most affluent neighbourhood. In this leafy suburb you’ll find some of the capital’s most upmarket hotels and state buildings. Kampala is a popular East African MICE hub, as it offers an array of accommodation and conference facilities.
Market in Kampala city centre
Baha’i Temple on Kikaaya Hill
BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE
(Mobile & WhatsApp) +256 782816554 | +256 773204364 | +256 759214947 E-mail: reservations@bellavistasafaris.com
Tel +256 773 204364 | +256 759 214947 | +256 701 508462 | +256 700 1631008 E-mail: booking@lodgebellavista.com
“Beautiful View”
LET’S HAVE AN ADVENTURE!
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Africa Outlook issue 77 | 13
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Outlook Recommends “With a tapestry of landscapes, excellent wildlife watching and welcoming locals, Uganda packs a lot into one small country” – Lonely Planet
ACCOM MO DAT IO N
Laburnam Courts
This luxury hotel is located next to State House Nakasero in Kampala. It boasts state of the art facilities, including a spa, outdoor pool and restaurant. The upmarket rooms and studios are decorated in a neutral palette, with ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning and balconies. It’s the perfect spot to explore the capital.
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Mboro Safari Lodge Mboro Safari lodge is a luxurious and eco-friendly lodge, nestled in Lake Mboro National Park. Accommodation is provided in thoughtfully designed cottages, with comfortable king-sized beds and traditional grass-thatched roofs. Each cottage has a private balcony, offering panoramic views of the national park and a chance for wildlife spotting.
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Mahogany Springs is located in Buhoma, Bwindi, Uganda, the home of the Mountain Gorillas Stay in luxurious comfort with the highest levels of service in an unparalleled setting
‘An Unforgettable experience’.
Mahogany Springs Head Office: UK: +44 (0) 208 736 0713 Email: info@mahoganysprings.com www.mahoganysprings.com Follow us on Instagram mahoganysprings
Are you ready for a walk on the wild side? From an unforgettable Savannah sunrise, to the vibrant orange of a perfect sunset, it’s no wonder Uganda is described as “The Pearl in Africa’s Crown.” Overlooking Lake George with the snow-capped Rwenzori mountains in the distance, Marafiki Safari Lodge, proves the perfect gem for visitors looking for a truly authentic African experience.
T +256 (0) 775 941189 / +256 (0) 784 056831 E Info@marafikisafaris.com | MarafikiSafaris.com
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Outlook Recommends ACCOMMODATION
FO O D A N D DRI NK – KAM PALA
Uganda Cultural Lodges
2K Restaurant Uganda
The Lawns
Otter’s Bar
Cayenne
Bella Vista Safaris and Lodge
Marifiki Safari Lodge Mahogany Springs Rafiki Lodge Sipi 16 | Africa Outlook issue 77
BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE
“Out of Africa, there is always something new”
Pliny the Elder
YOUR SAFARI WITH US It begins with listening to your dreams and what you have visualized as the starting point. Crafting a truly personalized itinerary is the key to making it real. Our staff are experts at knowing what is possible, practical and advisable. In today’s world, this knowledge is priceless. Every detail, from check in, to managing all transportation is handled with poise and grace.
www.ugandasafarichapter.com
AFFORDABLE AND FLEXIBLE GROUP TOURS info@churchillsafaris.com www.churchillsafaris.com BOOK YOUR ACCOMODATION IN THE SOUTHERN SECTOR OF BWINDI
Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge
ACCESSIBILITY TO LAKE MULEHE GORILLA LODGE Kisoro - Lake Mulehe - 13km Mulehe - Rushaga - 23km Mulehe - Nkuringo - 24km 0704671286/8 +256 704671288 +256 704671285 bookings@ugandaculturallodges.com
www.ugandaculturallodges.com Africa Outlook issue 77 | 17
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Outlook Recommends OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Saso ‘Gorilla Trips’ Uganda
C ULT UR A L AT TRACTI ONS
Mengo Palace
Igongo Cultural Centre Uganda Safari Chapter
Destination Jungle Ltd Engagi Safaris Terrace Safaris and Tours 18 | Africa Outlook issue 77
32° East Ugandan Arts Trust
Social Innovation Museum
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DISCOVER THE BEST ATTRACTIONS IN
East Africa
with Engagi Safaris
ENGAGI SAFARIS, is an African based Tour Agency, offering the best safaris in mainly Uganda, Rwanda,Burundi,Tanzania and Democratic Republic of Congo and other neighboring countries. We have over 10 years experience in the tourism industry, and our main objective is to provide our clients with the best quality services at affordable prices. WWW.AFRICAGORILLASAFARIS.NET
Centrally located hotel in Kampala Welcome to the Hilton Garden Inn, Kampala, located in Uganda’s vibrant capital city. Situated on Plot 72 Kira Road opposite the British High Commission, our hotel is within walking distance to the Acacia mall, Uganda Golf Course & Museum and many business and government offices. We are within easy reach of Mulago Hospital and Makerere University, within one hour drive from Entebbe International Airport and only a short cab ride from many major attractions. At a glance
MV Kazinga This is one of the latest water vessel in Uganda’s water for tourism with a maximum capacity of 56 people. The boat offers scenic cruises on Lake Edward and along the Kazinga Channel with morning and afternoon cruise and an eye catching evening Sun-downers on the boat. On this cruise guests are guaranteed of excellent wildlife sightings including large schools of hippopotamus, Nile crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants and multitude of birds. On board services such as a minibar and a place of convenience are available. The boat can be booked in advance for exclusive private parties and events. Tel: +256 (0) 393 267 153 | +256 (0) 701 426 368 | info@ugandalodges.com
• Within one hour drive from Entebbe International Airport • 96 guestrooms with complimentary Wi-Fi • Restaurant, bar, 24-hour room service and convenience store • Business center and meeting space which seats 150 people • Fitness center and outdoor pool Call us on: +256 313 800 800
Reserve online at www.hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com
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Transport Links IT’S EASY TO travel to Uganda by air. The country’s largest airport, Entebbe International Airport, is serviced by various international carriers including KLM, Qatar Airways and Emirates Airlines. Uganda recently revived its national carrier, Uganda Airlines, beginning with routes from Entebbe to Nairobi, Dar es Salaam and Mogadishu.
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In the future it will be expanding to more African destinations. The country also has several domestic scheduled flight operators, offering flights to different locations within the country. Fly Uganda serves remote destinations such as Kidepo National Park, with flights leaving from Kajjansi Airfield. Transport within Uganda is very affordable. There are several intercity buses in Uganda, including Post Bus, most of which depart from the capital Kampala. The best way to travel within cities is by private taxi or shared minibuses, which run on a fixed route. Uganda has a good road
Entebbe International Airport network, making car hire a possibility. Several companies offer self-drive safaris, where tourists can rent a 4 x 4 vehicle to go off the beaten track. It’s also possible to explore Uganda via railway – there are two lines, one from Kampala to Port Bell, and the other from Kampala to Tororo on the Kenyan Border.
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Landmark Attractions
A PE RFECT OME HOME AWAY FROM H
We are a Tours and Travel Company driven by the desire to host tourists from the world over, to share all that Uganda, this amazing country, has to offer – in life-altering experiences. Our success is measured by visitors who choose to return again and again with us, and who encourage their friends and family to experience the country for themselves.
Plot 126 Kirabo Comple, 1st Floor, Bukoto-Kisasi Road, Uganda T +(256) 775 811 609 info@terracesafaris.com
Facilities offered 24 hours room service, Airport transfer,conference hall hire, Restaurant and Bar, Free WiFi available and Laundry services etc.
Maries Royal Hotel, Bunga Soya Ggaba Road P.O.BOX 70275, Kampala Uganda Tel: +256392176181 | +256705362377 Email: mariesroyalehotel@gmail.com www.mariesroyalehotelkampala.com
BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK “This swath of steep mountains covered in thick, steamy jungle is just as magnificent as it sounds. The 331-square-kilometre World Heritage–listed Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of Africa’s most ancient habitats, even surviving the last Ice Age as most of the continent’s other forests disappeared” – Lonely Planet
KIBALE NATIONAL PARK “What awaits is one of the world’s most awesome arrays of wild chimpanzee packs, and you can see these majestic simians of Central Africa trawling through the undergrowth and commanding the canopies on game drives and safari excursions of all different types” – The Crazy Tourist
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Business Travel Guides joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com Tel: +44 (0) 1603 959 676 jordan.levey@outlookpublishing.com Tel: +44 (0) 1603 959 668 krisha.canlas@outlookpublishing.com Tel: +44 (0) 1603 959 682 matt.cole-wilkin@outlookpublishing.com Tel: +44 (0) 1603 959 669 w w w. a f r i c a o u t l o o k m a g . c o m