What no one tells you is how surprisingly and beautifully green Uganda is. This heavenly garden of Africa is almost like a shock of emerald flora. The republic of Uganda covers 91,134 square miles and is situated right on top of the Equator between Zaire and Kenya in East Africa. Uganda At A Glance will give the best guide to Uganda Safaris.
Capital City And Major Towns
Kampala. Major cities and towns Gulu, Jinja, Lira, Mbarara, Mbale, Masaka.
Borders
Uganda is a landlocked country situated on the equator in East Africa. Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly Zaire) is in the west border of the country while Sudan to the north, Kenya to the east and Rwanda and Tanzania to the south.
Population
31,367,972 (2008 est.)
Climate
Uganda exhibits moderate temperature throughout the year. The average daily temperature of Kampala is around 18 to 25 [degrees] C. Uganda experiences two dry seasons (December to February, June to August); semi-arid in the northeast.
Ethnic Make-Up
- Baganda 16.9%
- Banyakole 9.5%
- Basoga 8.4%
- Bakiga 6.9%
- Iteso 6.4%
- Langi 6.1%
- Acholi 4.7%
- Bagisu 4.6%
- Lugbara 4.2%
- Bunyoro 2.7%
- other 29.6% (2002 census)
Religion
The country’s motto is “For God and My Country”, the Constitution provides that Uganda is a secular country.
- Roman Catholic 41.9%
- Protestant 42% (Pentecostal 4.6%, Anglican 35.9%, Seventh Day Adventist 1.5%)
- Muslim 12.1%
- other 3.1%,
- none 0.9% (2002 census)
Language
Ugandans use some 40 indigenous languages the most common being Luganda and Luo. But, English is the official language of Uganda. Though, Swahili is also commonly spoken.
Dressing
Uganda has no winter. So they wear lightweight clothing all year-round. Daytime temperatures are generally warm to hot, and evenings be comparatively cooler, especially at higher altitudes.
If you’re dressed scantily or improperly, it’ll be considered as an insult by local tradition.
National Events & Calendar
Here’s a list of public holidays in Uganda.
- January 1: New Year’s Day
- January 26: Liberation Day
- March 8: International Women’s Day
- April 6: Good Friday
- April 9: Easter Monday
- May 1: Labour Day
- June 3: Martyr’s Day
- June 9: National Heroes Day
- Date variable: Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan)
- October 9: Independence Day
- Date variable: Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice)
- December 25: Christmas Day
- December 26: Boxing Day
Communications
- The country code for Uganda is +256.
- Uganda uses Telephone, telex, fax and airmail services to connect all parts of the world. International direct dialing is available in all major centers.
- Public call boxes in post offices and main towns operate on a card system.
- There are several cellular companies operating in Uganda and roaming works nearly in all major cities and towns.
- Also, you’ll find ample internet cafes in all the major city centers.
Travelling to Uganda
By air
Entebbe International Airport, 40 km away from the capital Kampala. A number of international airlines are connected to this airport.
Driving
An international driving license is mandatory in Uganda. Driving is on the left-hand side and traffic signs are international.
Public transport
Buses and taxis operate in almost all towns.
Entry Requirements
- A valid passport.
- Visa to enter the country
- Three-month single-entry tourist visas are available in all Ugandan embassies (price may be subjected to nationality).
Health Certification
- Visitors arriving from areas affected with yellow fever and cholera must produce certificates of inoculation.
- Malaria and bilharzia are endemic.
Vaccinations
A number of vaccinations are recommended before visiting Uganda (check with your doctor in advance).
Malaria
Malaria is endemic in tropical Africa and protection against it is necessary.
HIV/AIDS
HIV/AIDS is a serious problem throughout Africa.
Medical Insurance
Travelers to Uganda are recommended to obtain valid and up-to-date medical insurance prior to arrival.
Security
All in all, Uganda Is A Safe Country To Travel In. The Ugandans are warm-hearted and generous people. They are always eager to help visitors get the most out of their stay. Uganda is a multi-democratic and is a politically stable country. Embark a single most rewarding Uganda Safaris with Gazelle Safaris Africa. For more Uganda At A Glance info visit our website and get the best option to explore Uganda Travel Guide.
