Ilbra Yacoob
Uganda is a country dear to my heart and one that should not be overlooked, for its breathtaking beauty and loving people are so captivating! Uganda, known as the Pearl of Africa, is nestled in the heart of East Africa with the most welcoming people, diverse landscape boasting majestic mountains, serene lakes, and untamed wilderness. It is no surprise why this country has become such an enchanting destination for many travelers. It is a country that beckons to adventurous souls and wildlife enthusiasts.
Uganda, has a remarkable array of natural wonders and cultural treasures. From the majestic peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains in the West to the sprawling expanse of Lake Victoria, and its adventure capital Jinja known to be the source of the mighty River Nile, Uganda's diverse landscape is a sight to behold. The country is home to Africa's Big Seven:
1) Gorilla 2) Lion 3) Elephant 4) Leopard 5) Rhino 6) Chimpanzee 7) Buffalo
The perfect location of Lemala Wildwaters Lodge within the mighty River Nile makes it an ideal accommodation for the adventurous traveler. Here I challenged myself to white water rafting the worlds longest river and bungee jumped at 144 feet above the River Nile!
The majestic snow-capped peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains stand so tall and proud. I recall how I could not help but marvel at their grandeur on my first hike up these mountains. The thrill of encountering birds endemic to the Rwenzori brought out the child in me. With each step I took, I was reminded of nature’s power and magnificence.
Nothing could have prepared me for the amazement I was about to experience when I first stepped foot into the legendary Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a hidden gem recognized for its awe-inspiring Mountain Gorilla sanctuary. As I trekked through its lush thick greenery, I encountered the beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. This is when I realized that I was in the heart of this remote paradise.
Murchison Falls National Park, also known as Kabalega Falls National Park, is nestled in the northwest of Uganda. Here you will witness the roar of the 141-foot-tall waterfall that will undoubtedly captivate your soul as you witness its majestic power. Just a few meters away from the powerful Murchison Falls you will find the “Uhuru” Falls that came to existence in 1962 when Uganda experienced El Niño rains that lasted for weeks. The rains resulted in a tremendous increase in water levels which the narrow opening could not handle. The overflow of water forced parts of the Murchison Falls to create a tributary which formed the Uhuru Falls. Uhuru in the Swahili language means “Freedom”. 1962 is when Uganda gained its independence.
Uganda’s winding roads lead to the country’s breathtaking views and encounters with its rich culture, where every turn reveals a captivating story. The warmth and charm of the Ugandan people add another layer of enchantment to this extraordinary destination. To visit Uganda, travelers need a valid passport and a tourist visa, which can be obtained online for $50 through the official website of Uganda's immigration department.
While English is the official language of Uganda, the native Bantu languages such as Luganda are widely spoken. The local currency is the Ugandan Shilling, although larger establishments may accept US dollars so long as they do not have any tears. Visitors from the United States must have a visa to enter Uganda, which can be obtained online before traveling. Additionally, all visitors are required to present a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certification upon arrival to clear immigration. Uganda is a year-round destination with a warm equatorial climate. The wettest months are April, May, October, and November, which can make trekking more challenging but still accessible.
When comparing Uganda to Rwanda for Gorilla tracking, Uganda’s cost of gorilla permits is more affordable and has a higher number of gorilla families. Furthermore, Uganda has a wealth of other attractions, including tree-climbing lions, the River Nile, Lake Victoria and Chimpanzees. Kibale National Park, most popular for its high concentration of chimpanzees, is considered the best place on earth to track wild Chimpanzees. Kibale National Park is accessible by a 1-1.5-hour flight from Entebbe.
Whether you seek thrilling adventures or serene moments of tranquility, Uganda offers a variety of experiences that will leave a lasting impression. I encourage you to embark on a journey where every corner reveals a new chapter of discovery and wonder. I am confident that Uganda's charm will capture your heart and ignite your sense of adventure as it has done for me.