UGANDA, Africa -- Uganda, Africa's tourism destination leader in the 1960's, is staging a resurgence in international visitors encouraged by political stability, economic growth and a targeted campaign to protect and nurture its prized wildlife population, as international visitor arrivals have increased 33% in the past year. With strikingly beautiful scenery and friendly Ugandans eager to welcome foreigners, the Country is once again opening its arms to travelers seeking the authentic African experience.
"Uganda is blessed by an amazing mix of habitats, providing the perfect bio-diversity to support a broad variety of animal and bird life," said James Bahinguza, General Manager of the Uganda Tourist Board. "We have worked hard to revive the tourism industry which was so decimated in the 70's and 80's as a result of despotic regimes. There is a pent-up demand for travel to Uganda and the many attractions which lured visitors from around the world before our civil strife, still exist today," he added.
International visitors arrivals increased to 400,000 in 2004, doubling the 200,000 recorded in 2000. This number pales in comparison with other safari destinations in East and Southern Africa, creating a exclusive atmosphere for those who wish to venture to discover the wonders of Uganda, away from the crush of mass tourism.
Bahinguza praised the efforts of Uganda's Wild Life Authority to protect and re-populate Uganda's animal kingdom. The Country has four of the "big five" - elephant, buffalo, lion and leopard - and white rhinos will be re-introduced in the near future. In addition, Uganda is unique in its diverse primate population, with many travelers being drawn by the opportunity to experience mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitats.
Although land-locked, nearly 25% of Uganda is covered by lakes and rivers, creating the perfect environment for bird life. In fact, many ornithologists rank Uganda as one of bird watching finest venues, with over 1,000 species.
Two of the world's most famous bodies of water are in Uganda; Lake Victoria, the world's second largest fresh water lake, and the 4,200 mile Nile River, the source of which is Lake Victoria. The abundant water supply contributes to Uganda's green county side and makes the Country very rich in the production of fruits and vegetables. These bodies of water provide multiple options for game viewing and adventure sports.
Very close to the Nile source at Jinja is an opportunity to go white-river rafting in Grade 5 rapids. Further down the River, anglers can fish for the famous Nile perch which can weigh over 200 pounds.
For the mountain climbers, the Rwenzori Mountain Range, the famous "Mountains of the Moon", is Africa's highest mountain chain and is considered the best climbing in all of the African Continent with peaks rising to 16,000 feet.
"Next year, we will celebrate the 100th anniversary of Winston Churchill's storied visit to Africa when he named Uganda the 'Pearl of Africa', Bahinguza noted. We will also celebrate the centennial trek of the Italian explorers who climbed the Rwenzoris," he pointed out.
Appealing to all tastes and budgets, Uganda has accommodations in all major cities and national parks. It also has an excellent network of professional tour operators who offer a wide-range of package tours and can cater to special itinerary requests.
Air access to Uganda is through Entebbe International Airport which is just 25 miles from Kampala the Country's attractive capital city. Tourist visas are easily available on arrival at the airport at the cost of $30 for single entry. For more information, please visit the official website of the Uganda Tourist Board at www.visituganda.com.
