UGANDA MEETING & INCENTIVE PLANNERS GUIDE2019 - The Pearls of Uganda... waiting to be discovered!
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UGANDA
MEETING &
INCENTIVE
PLANNERS
GUIDE 2019
The Pearls of Uganda... waiting to be discovered!
1
Contents
KAMPALA
Welcome letter from the Minister ................................................... 4
About UCB and UACII .............................................................................. 5
Meet in the Pearl of Africa ................................................................... 6
Kampala - capital city ................................................................................... 8
Entebbe - getaway city ................................................................................ 11
Incentives in the Pearl ............................................................................ 16
Wildlife safari experiences ........................................................................ 16
Adventure experiences ............................................................................... 22
Uganda’s cultural Pearls .............................................................................. 24
Interesting facts about Uganda .......................................................... 28
Journey to and within the Pearl ........................................................ 30
2
I About UCB
t is with great pleasure that I present the 2019 Uganda
Convention Bureau’s Meeting and Incentive Planners Guide on-site services to clients. We strive to achieve the
and UACII
that will guide you, the planner, to the rich offering within highest levels of professionalism in our dealings with
Uganda’s Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events partner stakeholders, the broader marketplace and
(MICE) sector. clients.
We invite you to come and experience for yourself the
Uganda is endowed with beautiful landscapes, rich biodiversity,
richness in the Pearl of Africa for your next meeting or
sparkling freshwater lakes, untamed wildlife in vast national
incentive travel programme. Please contact Uganda
parks and diverse colourful cultures emanating from ancient
Convention Bureau for all your meeting, conference,
kingdoms.
incentive or event planning needs.
Destination Uganda has won many accolades as a tourist Contact details: Ms. Rosemary Kobutagi
destination over the years; for example the 4th best place to rosemarykobutagi@gmail.com
visit in 2017 by the UK’s Rough Guides, ranked a top 20 global
tourism destination in 2013 by National Geographic, best tourist
U
destination in 2012 by Lonely Planet, Kidepo Valley National
Park rated as the 3rd best park in Africa by CNN Travel in 2017, ganda has been host to international meetings of
and Trip Advisor awarding certificates of excellence to seven of small, mid and large capacity since the early 2,000’s,
our ten national parks. successfully executed by both Government and
private sector, with the highlight being the hosting
Welcome
Tourism, and specifically business tourism, is one of the world’s of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting
fastest growing industries with a strong multiplier effect into the (CHOGM) in 2007 (attended by Her Highness Queen Elizabeth
greater economy. In Uganda nature-based leisure tourism has II of England, 36 Heads of State and approximately 3,500
letter
U
increasingly become a major contributor to economic growth, delegates).
empowerment and job creation for our people. To support this, ACII was launched in Kampala during mid
the importance of embracing MICE to diversify tourism receipts In recent years’ Uganda’s ranking in Africa, as reported by the 2018. This professional association brings
from the
has been recognized in the country’s Vision 2040 strategy as a International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) has together Uganda’s private sector to lead,
key driver in the social and economic transformation of Uganda. consistently been amongst the top 10 African destinations facilitate and develop the destination’s
hosting international Association meetings, with an 8th business tourism competitiveness, and raise the
Minister
Uganda is safe, warm, naturally hospitable and easily accessible, position recorded in 2017. service standards to international best practice.
with a wide-ranging choice of facilities and services that can Membership comprises qualified, specialist MICE
successfully deliver your every meeting or incentive travel need. Recognizing the significant opportunities in the MICE tourism companies that include hotels, venues, Professional
sector, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities is Conference Organizers, Destination Management
As famously quoted by Sir Winston Churchill - “The Kingdom of proud to have launched Uganda Convention Bureau in early Companies and other service providers.
Uganda is a fairy tale. The scenery is different, the climate is 2018 to professionalize the industry in Uganda.
different and most of all, the people are different from anything Dealing with a member of UACII will ensure quality,
elsewhere to be seen in the whole range of Africa ... Uganda is Uganda Convention Bureau’s fundamental role is to market providing our Clients with greater effectiveness
truly the pearl of Africa”. and promote Uganda as a MICE destination, bid for MICE and efficiencies within the sector in terms of well-
events and collaborate with private sector stakeholders to coordinated and professional service delivery
Come and experience for yourself the richness in the Pearl of grow the industry as a whole. The Bureau offers impartial of international meetings and incentive travel
Africa for your next meeting or incentive travel programme. advice, guidance and support to international meeting and programmes in Uganda. Look for the UACII logo when
event planners through every stage of planning. UCB plays an choosing your Uganda MICE service provider and
As we say in Luganda – “Tukusanyukidde! We are happy to important strategic role in supporting Government goals for ensure peace of mind in delivering your event.
welcome you!” MICE tourism, increasing the country’s market share and thus
helping drive the economic development agenda forward. Contact details:
UACII Chair: Mr. Anthony Chege
Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu A member of both ICCA and SITE, Uganda Convention Bureau AChege@serena.co.ug
Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities adheres to international best practices for Convention
Bureaus providing advisory services, pre- and post-bid Secretary: Ms. Rachel Lubega
support, destination expertise, event planning support and rlubega@qualitymngt.com
4 5
An endearing feature of Uganda Uganda is the perfect place for your
is the friendly and approachable next MICE event in East Africa. We
nature of its people. Home to have the full range of conference
some of the most amazing cultural facilities and accommodation to
traditions and histories of our times, suit your needs; supported by a
and bound together by the great private sector that is competent
Magnificence, human spirit of Ubuntu, Uganda and capable with all the equipment
for variety composes a number of ancient and services available that a major
kingdoms and chiefdoms that today conference or a unique incentive
of form and offer rich cultural experiences in travel programme might need.
colour, for their royal heritage sites, dance,
profusion of arts, and varied ceremonies of the
brilliant life world’s most ethnically diverse
We look forward to
population of 56 tribes.
welcoming you to come
In his book ‘My African Journey’ and experience the pearls
Sir Winston Churchill described of Uganda for yourself.
...from end to Uganda’s landscapes as
Meet in the
end a beautiful “Magnificence, for variety of form
and colour, for profusion of brilliant
garden.” life” and added that it is “from end
Pearl of Africa
Sir Winston Churchill
to end a beautiful garden.”
E
merging from the shadows of Uganda’s dark history, tourism is returning the sheen to the ‘pearl of Africa’.
Uganda is recognized as one of the safest destinations in Africa. Here you’ll find the best the continent has to
offer and with fewer visitors than in longer-established East African destinations.
Uganda’s ten national parks contain a fabulous variety of habitats, ranging from snow-capped mountain peaks and
vast papyrus swamps, to dark tropical forests and open savannah plains. These diverse settings are home to an
impressive range of wildlife including over 1,000 species of bird, with many central African species at the eastern
limit of their ranges. Mammals include numerous forest primates, among them chimpanzee and the endangered
mountain gorilla, while big game animals are to be found in the savannah parks.
With a tapestry of verdant green landscapes, abundant wildlife and sparkling lakes, Uganda packs a lot into one
small country. It is home to Africa’s tallest mountain range (the Rwenzoris), the source of the Nile, the world’s
longest river, and the continent’s largest lake (Lake Victoria). Uganda’s most iconic experience, and one of the
world’s most remarkable wildlife experiences, is undoubtedly tracking endangered mountain gorillas in their misty
habitat – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
6 7
Kampala Serena Hotel
One of the ‘Leading Hotels of the World’, Kampala Serena Hotel is an
inspirational blend of 5-star polish, pan-African panache, social style
and business reliability. Located at the very heart of Kampala this
luxury business hotel stands amidst an oasis of cool and green – 17
Kampala - capital city acres of landscaped grounds and water gardens. With 186-rooms,
four restaurants and a number of small boardrooms, this world-class
hotel is the focal point of international, national, regional, business,
political and social life.
Kampala is the bustling modern capital of Uganda Kampala is recognized as a regional leading
and the largest urban center, with a population of center of business, events, exhibitions, talent, and The adjacent Kampala Serena Conference Centre comprises the
almost 2 million. The city is built on seven hills close creativity, with an ever-changing variety of events Victoria Auditorium with a plenary capacity of 1,500 and 5 other large
to Lake Victoria. A key advantage of Kampala is that and a vibrant nightlife and cultural scene. meeting rooms with capacities from 50 to 300.
it is a safe city to explore. www.serenahotels.com/serenakampala
Uganda was host to the Commonwealth Heads of
Located just 40km from Entebbe International Government Meeting with Queen Elizabeth, 50
Airport, Kampala offers all the amenities of a modern Heads of State and over 3,500 participants, and
capital city, with a wide choice of accommodation the African Union Heads of State with over 3,000 Sheraton Kampala Hotel
and great international restaurants. The city is in attendance. In 2017 the World Cross Country
witnessing an incredible burst of development, Championship was hosted in Kampala that had Surrounded by 9 acres of well-manicured gardens, Sheraton Kampala Hotel
from high-end, big-city style apartments to high- thousands of athletes from across the world located in the heart of Kampala city features 236 guest rooms and suites
rise offices and revamped roads. participating. In the same year the ICC Division 3 that exemplify the beauty of Ugandan hospitality with magnificent views
World Cricket League event was hosted – showcasing of the city center on one side and the prestigious Kololo and Nakasero hills
the city’s extensive event and leisure capabilities. on the other.
The Hotel offers ten meeting rooms with seating capacities from 5 to 550:
a magnificent ballroom, boardrooms, and a rooftop meeting room. Also
available is a fully equipped business center.
www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ebbsi-sheraton-kampala-hotel/
Speke Resort and Conference Center and Munyonyo
Commonwealth Resort
These adjacent 5-star resorts on the shores of Lake Victoria in Kampala
located are a mere 30 minutes drive from Entebbe International
Airport. Spread across 100 acres of prime property offering 472 well-
appointed guest rooms including 59 Presidential Suites the resort
offers 20 indoor meeting venues with over 5,000 m2 of enclosed
space and 5 outdoor venues.
Having successfully hosted countless international high profile
conferences and guests, including African Union Heads of States
for over 3,000 guests, Solidarity Summit 2017 Chaired by the U.N
Secretary General along with several Heads of State, MTN Global
Leadership Meeting 2018 and CHOGM with over 50 Heads of State, we
pride ourselves on meeting and exceeding our guests’ expectations.
The resort offers international standard facilities and services with
various restaurants and bars, an Olympic size swimming pool, a state
of the art gymnasium, boat trips on Lake Victoria from the resort’s
marina and an equestrian center that caters for all levels of riders.
www.spekeresort.com • www.munyonyocommonwealth.com
8 9
Pearl of Africa Hotel
Set on 6 hectares of lush gardens, the Pearl of Africa hotel, Hotel Africana
with a striking glass façade located on one of Kampala’s
seven hills in Nakasero, is an iconic landmark right in the Hotel Africana is Uganda’s premier 4-star hotel
heart of downtown Kampala offering world-class hospitality. with 254 guest rooms and 14 air-conditioned
The hotel offers 297 guest rooms with breathtaking views conference halls, with seating capacities ranging
of the city, 4 excellent restaurants, 2 bars / lounges and from 20 to 2,000 participants. The hotel is ideal for
state of the art meeting and event facilities. your meeting, conference, workshop, exhibition
and other quality events. www.hotelafricana.com/
Mestil Hotel
Méstil Hotel & Residences, located in the periphery of Kampala city on
Nsambya Hill, is a 5-star hotel with 98 guest rooms. The nine meeting and
function rooms come fitted with high speed internet and a conference system
built to accommodate audio and video conferencing to suit your every need;
capacities range from 10 to 500. www.mestilhotels.com.
Entebbe - gateway city
Protea Hotels by Marriott – Naguru Skyz
Entebbe is a small quiet town located on a peninsula on the shores of Lake Victoria in central Uganda, 21 miles (34 km)
Located on top of Naguru Hill in Kampala city, this luxury 5-star hotel
south of Kampala city, the capital of Uganda. It is characterized by a charming town center and is a haven of tranquility. Its
offers 141 guest rooms, a fine dining restaurant and 4 rooftop bars
with panoramic views of Kampala. The hotel’s two conference rooms elevation (3,760 feet -1,146 meters above sea level) gives it a perpetually moderate summer climate.
each with a capacity of 120, and 13 ultra modern boardrooms come
with the latest equipment. Our famous Skyz Deck that can seat 350 The word Entebbe means ‘seat or chair’ in the Luganda language. It was named this because that was where the Baganda
people is the perfect venue for your evening function. chief sat to arbitrate legal cases in the early 1900s. It is the location of State House, the official office and residence of the
www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ebbns-protea-hotel-naguru-skyz/ President of Uganda, which dictates that Entebbe is the chief seat of power in the country.
Hotel Golden Tulip Canaan Kampala Entebbe is the main point of entry into Uganda for international arrivals, renowned for the country’s largest commercial
and military airport - Entebbe International Airport. The four-lane Entebbe-Kampala Expressway or Highway is the fastest
Golden Tulip is a redesigned, elegant 4-star hotel with 122 guest road link between the two cities,
rooms and suites. Our hotel features six unique meeting and event
options with capacities up to 200. All our meeting facilities have Entebbe is one of the most pleasant towns in Uganda famous for its parks, beaches, islands and the Uganda Wildlife
audio-visual equipment and offer natural lightning for a more relaxed Education Centre (formerly the national zoo). It is the location of the oldest golf course in East Africa – Entebbe Golf Club
atmosphere. Meeting rooms on the top floor have sweeping views was established in 1900.
of the city and on a good day you can see all the way to Lake Victoria.
canaan-kampala.goldentulip.com Being the gateway for international flights into Uganda, Entebbe offers a good choice of large hotels and guesthouses –
catering to both business and leisure visitors.
Protea Hotel by Marriott - Kampala
Delegates can expect four-star luxury complemented by five-star
service at the Protea Hotel Kampala, where the 70 opulent guest rooms
and suites create an oasis in the heart of the country’s capital. The 6
conference and event facilities have capacities ranging from 20 to 350
guests. www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ebbka-protea-hotel-kampala/
Imperial Royale Hotel
Imperial Royale Hotel, opened as a 4-star hotel in 2007 in central Kampala,
has 275 guest rooms with some of the largest convention facilities in Uganda.
The 22 meeting and function venues have capacities ranging from 50 to 2,000
and underground parking for 500 cars. www.imperialhotels.co.ug
10 11
Imperial Hotels - Entebbe
Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa
• Imperial Golf View Hotel is our newest 4-star hotel in Entebbe,
A world away from the city, the Lake Victoria Serena Golf close to the airport and overlooking the 18-hole Entebbe Golf
Resort and Spa offers all the magic of a Mediterranean Club. The hotel has 269 guest rooms and seven meeting and
marina with a world-class 18-hole golf resort just 20 function venues with capacities ranging from 10 to 250.
minutes from Kampala and Entebbe. Styled to replicate a
pastel-shaded Italian hillside village, Lake Victoria Serena • Imperial Resort Beach Hotel is a 4-star hotel located in Entebbe
has 122 guest rooms situated amid terraced rose gardens on 27 acres of landscaped gardens with a 1 km private sand
above its own boating marina, where a wide array of water beach on the shores of Lake Victoria. The hotel has 181 guest
birds gather. The 6 meeting and function rooms have rooms and nine conference and banqueting venues with
capacities ranging from 10 to 250 delegates. capacities ranging from 10 to 1,500 and equipped with high-
tech digital sound, lighting and interpretation systems.
www.serenahotels.com/serenalakevictoria
www.imperialhotels.co.ug
Lake Victoria Hotel
Lake Victoria is a 4-star old colonial hotel where
Best Western Premier Garden Hotel the Queen of England (Queen Victoria) stayed
in 1958 when she visited Uganda. Very close
Close to Entebbe International Airport along the Entebbe- to Entebbe International Airport the hotel has
Kampala Expressway and conveniently located at the Victoria 144 guest rooms and a capacity of between 30
Mall the 5-star Best Western Premier has 51 guest rooms that and 80 in 2 meeting rooms.
include access to our award-winning rewards program, Best
Western Rewards, and three meeting and function venues www.lvhotel.co.ug
with capacities of between 20 and 400. In 2018 we achieved a
Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor.
bestwesternghe.co.ug No. 5 Boutique Hotel
Nestled in the leafy suburbs of Entebbe, No. 5 is a stylish boutique hotel with 15 luxury rooms and apartments, a spa and
one of the best dining experiences in Entebbe where carefully planned menus are paired with an international wine list.
Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe www.hotelnumber5.com
This luxurious 4-star resort hotel, with 86
guest rooms and 4 meeting and function
venues with capacities ranging from 18
to 250, is ideally located on the glistening
shores of Lake Victoria and a convenient 1km
from the Entebbe airport. Tides Restaurant
and Agama Terrace offer exciting menues
with superb views over the lake.
www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ebben-
protea-hotel-entebbe/
12 13
Kidepo National Park - courtesy of Apoka Lodge
Incentives
in the Pearl
U
ganda offers spectacular scenery and unique Uganda is also home to over 10% of the worlds and 50% Queen Elizabeth National Park is the most
experiences to add to your incentive travel or of Africa’s birds, with over 1,000 different species including popular safari park, famous for its tree-climbing lions and
pre-post tour itinerary. From boat cruises on some of the most rare and endemic such as the Shoebill Stork. home to an abundance of wildlife; the park is blessed with
Lake Victoria, to tracking gorillas, sport fishing in This makes the country and its national parks a premium and crater lakes, forested gorges, savannah plains, swamps,
the mighty Nile River; balloon safaris over large sought after bird watching destination. rivers and the Kazinga Channel offering exceptional boat
herds of buffalo, to finding the elusive endangered Shoebill cruises.
Stork in its papyrus habitat –the Pearl of Africa has it all.
In Uganda – you will be spoilt Lake Mburo National Park is Uganda’s smallest
Uganda is the ultimate safari and adventure destination …
without the crowds.
for choice with a string of pearls park and close enough to Kampala for a short-stay visit
to experience the vast herds of buffalo, topi and zebra,
to add shine to your itinerary! together with over 350 species of birds. The park has a
Wildlife Safari Experiences varied mosaic of habitats and landscapes: forests, rich
Each of the parks and national reserves are unique in habitat acacia tree valleys, savannah grasslands and swamps.
Uganda has more than 10 national parks and reserves that and species. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a world heritage Visitors to Lake Mburo enjoy boat cruises, fishing or
between them feature all the big five – lion, elephant, rhino, site, is mountainous and misty, whilst the rugged wild Kidepo hiking.. Quad biking, mountain biking and horse riding in
leopard and buffalo. Uniquely, in addition to the big 5, Valley National Park in the northeast (voted 3rd Best Safari Lake Mburo National Park offer a unique safari experience
Uganda is home to two of the world’s most iconic primates Park in Africa by CNN in 2017) is so isolated that a safari there with the ability to explore the park not on a game drive
– the gentle endangered mountain gorillas of Bwindi and becomes a solitary excursion into the wilderness. vehicle but rather up close and more personal. En-route
Mgahinga, and the chimpanzee with the largest population there is a stop over at the Equator Line crossing that
in Kibale National Park. passes through Uganda.
16 17
Bwindi Impenetrable and
Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks -
Kibale National Park -
Gorilla Tracking
Chimpanzee Tracking
Uganda’s foremost tourist attraction, and indeed
one of the world’s most remarkable wildlife
Kibale National Park is dubbed the “Primate Capital of
encounters, is tracking the rare Mountain Gorilla
the World.” Located in the western part of the country
in the remote forests of south-western Uganda.
it is also the most magnificent of Uganda’s tropical rain
Found exclusively in the forests of Bwindi and
forests and one of the most rewarding areas to explore.
Virunga National Parks, over half of the world’s
The forest is home to 13 species of primates including
mountain gorillas are to be found in Uganda.
Africa’s largest population of Chimpanzees with around
In Bwindi 19 habituated groups are available
1,500, East Africa’s largest population of the threatened
for tracking, and with only 8 permits for each
Red Colobus, the rare L’Hoest’s Monkey, Bushbaby,
group, an exclusive and intimate experience is
Potto and the endemic Uganda Mangabay, a species of
guaranteed. In Mgahinga on the northeastern
Old World monkey found only in Uganda.
slopes of Virunga Volcanoes – gold meets silver
whereby Golden Monkeys can be tracked along
Kibale’s major attraction is Chimpanzee tracking with a
with the mountain gorillas Silverback.
unique experience offered nowhere else in the world
– the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience. Visitors
Africa’s richest forest, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest,
accompany researchers and habituators to follow the
has an impressive list of species with over 350 birds,
entire day’s routine, from the de-nesting in the early
51 reptiles, and 120 mammal species including
morning to the nesting in the evening. This all day
several primates for example: Black and White
experience offers a unique opportunity to observe the
Colobus, Blue Monkeys, Grey-cheeked Mangabey,
chimpanzees’ daily habits such as feeding, hunting,
L’hoest’s Monkey and both the Chimpanzee and
nursing, resting, patrolling.
Mountain Gorilla.
18 19Murchison Falls is Uganda’s most famous pearl.
The centerpiece of the country’s largest national park is Murchison
Falls where the rushing waters of the Nile River are dramatically
forced through a narrow gorge into the Devils Cauldron. After the
falls, the mighty cascade is transformed into a broad, placid river
that flows across the rift valley floor into Lake Albert, giving visitors
remarkable wildlife viewing experiences – elephants, giraffe,
buffalo, hippos, Nile crocodiles and aquatic birds (including the
rare Shoebill Stork) are permanent residents on the riverbanks.
The northern section of the park contains savannah and borassus
palms, acacia trees and riverine woodland, whilst the south is
dominated by woodland and forest patches. Notable visitors to
the park include Sir Winston Churchill, Theodore Roosevelt, Ernest
Hemingway and several British Royals.
Drift silently above the savannah plains teeming with wildlife in an
unforgettable hot air balloon adventure experience that ends with
a champagne bush breakfast – another of Uganda’s unique pearls.
Kidepo Valley National Park
Uganda’s most isolated national park lies in the rugged, semi arid valleys of the northeastern borders with Sudan and Kenya;
it is ranked among Africa’s finest wilderness areas, and the wild frontier region of the Karamojong hunter-gatherer tribe.
The park is home to over 80 mammal species (including 28 rare endemic species such as the aardwolf, bat-eared fox, striped
hyena and cheetah), over 475 bird species and healthy populations of elephant, zebra, oribi and one of Africa’s largest
single herd’s of buffalo.
Semuliki National Park
Sprawling across the floor of the Semliki Valley
the park is dominated by the easternmost
extension of the great Ituri Forest of the
Congo Basin – one of Africa’s most ancient
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and bio-diverse forests to survive the last ice
age 12-18,000 years ago. Home to over 60
In 2005 the Rhino Fund Uganda re-introduced Southern mammals, 440 bird, 374 butterfly, 81 moth
White Rhinos into the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – en-route and 336 tree species the park has hot springs
to Murchison Falls National Park. A guided walk in that bubble up from the depths demonstrating
the 70km2 sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to the powerful subterranean forces that have
encounter rhinos in the wild. been shaping the Great Rift Valley over the
past 14 million years. Primates, birds and
sport fishing offer exceptional experiences.
The traditional Batwa hunter-gatherer tribe
lives on the edge of the forest.
20 21Jinja, Source of the Nile –
Adventure Experiences East Africa’s adventure capital
Aside from the exceptional wildlife and nature experiences, Uganda’s many adventure pearls are growing in Jinja is the town at the source of the great
popularity, with physical and cultural exchange experiences included in itineraries. Some of the more popular White Nile River and home to some of the
experiences are mountaineering, hiking, bungee jumping, white water rafting, kayaking, quad biking, mountain world’s best and wildest white water rafting.
biking and horse riding amongst others. The Nile boasts rapids ranging from class 1
to 6, making rafting an ideal activity for all
levels – first-time rafters as well as extreme
adrenaline junkies.
Rwenzori Mountains National Park – Hiking and mountaineering
Once in Jinja there is bungee jumping,
Hiking the mystic “Mountains Of the Moon”, Africa’s highest mountain range at 5,100 meters and the snowy horse-riding safaris (along the banks of the
source of the Nile, is a unique and challenging experience for seasoned mountaineers to climb the summit of Nile, cantering through the plantations and
Margherita – the highest peak, although non-technical treks are also possible. Rwenzori is a UNESCO world stopping off in the tranquil Mabira Forest),
heritage site, hosting 70 mammals, 217 bid species including 19 Abertine Rift endemics and some of the world’s and quad biking, kayaking and canoeing –
rarest vegetation. with a serene sunset boat cruise on the Nile
to end a busy day of adventure.
Mt. Elgon National Park - hiking
One of the oldest volcanic mountains in Africa,
Mt. Elgon in eastern Uganda is surrounded by
forests and inhabited by mammals and over
300 species of birds. It offers beautiful vistas,
caves with rock paintings, warm springs and
cascading waterfalls; the ultimate goal of
many climbers is not on reaching the final
ascent to the 4,321m Wagagai Peak, but on
the decent into the vast 40km2 caldera, one
of the largest intact caldera’s in the world (a
large cauldron-like hollow formed after the
evacuation of the magma chamber in an
extinct volcano). Adventure activities include
rock climbing, sport fishing above Sipi Falls
and mountain biking through the coffee
plantations at the foothills of the park.
22 23Buganda cultural sites Uganda’s faith-based pearls Bahai temple
Uganda’s cultural pearls There are many cultural pearls of Uganda martyrs shrine in Namugongo The Bahai faith was introduced to
the Buganda Kingdom to experience Uganda in early 1958. A house of
firsthand in central Uganda. The Kabakas The Martyrs shrine in Kampala is where worship was built and completed in
Undoubtedly Uganda’s most precious pearls are our people. Home to some of (Kings) Palace situated on the Mengo 24 Catholic converts were brutally 1961 atop Kikaya Hill on the outskirts
the most amazing cultural traditions and histories of our times, our people are hill within Kampala is the main palace in executed following the orders of Kabaka of central Kampala. Designed by
bound together by the great human spirit of Ubuntu. Uganda composes a number the Kingdom of Buganda incorporating Mwanga II in the year 1886. The Roman Charles Mason Ramey, the Temple
of ancient kingdoms and chiefdoms that today offer rich cultural experiences in the great Parliamentary building, the Catholic Church, Christians and the with its characteristics dome is the
their royal heritage sites, dance, arts, and varied ceremonies of the world’s most Royal Mile and monuments in Wankaaki Church of Uganda have since developed only one of its kind in Africa. The 50-
ethnically diverse population of 56 tribes. Gardens. The magnificent reed and ring the shrine, to which over two million acre site includes extensive tranquil
work representing the 52 clans of the visitors from all over the world make an gardens that attract people from far
Baganda people, and the tranquility annual pilgrimage on the 3rd June to and wide.
inside the grass thatched Kasubi tombs commemorate and celebrate Martyrs
Uganda’s iconic tribes all contribute to the mysticism, respect Day- the day the Catholic Church of Rome Abayudaya - the Jews of Uganda
and awe of the great house. beatified the martyrs of its faith in 1920
Batwa and canonized them in 1964. Three Popes The Abayudaya or ‘The People of
Karambi royal tombs in Fort Portal, including today’s Pope Francis have made Judah’ practice Judaism and are
The Batwa or ‘Twa’ are one of the last groups of short- western Uganda, are the tombs housing found in the villages of Putti in Mbale
this personal pilgrimage.
the regalia of the royal family of Tooro district, eastern Uganda. They are a
statured people also known as ‘pygmy’ people, and until
Kingdom and the burial ground for three Baganda community of between
Bwindi Rainforest was gazetted as a National Park they lived 2 and 3,000 that are devout in
a hunter gather lifestyle in the forest. As the original dwellers Toro kings - Kyebambe Kamurasi, Olumi Gaddafi Mosque (Uganda National their practice, keeping kashrut and
of this ancient jungle, the Batwa were known as the ‘Keepers Kaboyo II and Rukidi III. Mosque) observing Shabbat. The Reform and
of the Forest’. A visit to the Batwa community of Bwindi is Conservative movements of Judaism
an enriching experience; showcasing their culture, housing, Igongo cultural center and cow tours Famously known as ‘Gaddafi Mosque’ the recognize most of the villages. In
food, way of life, fire making, art and crafts, and through their colourful structure with its magnificent June 2016 Rabbi Shlomo Riskin led a
song and dance, the Batwa will inspire you. Igongo Cultural Centre is one of the art features was built and designed based Beit Din that performed an Orthodox
best museums in southwestern Uganda, on a mix of Arab, European, and African conversion for the Putti community
Eriijukiro, showcasing the regions cultures. Built on Old Kampala Hill it can of Abayudaya.
history and culture. Uganda is the major be viewed from all corners of Kampala.
Karimojong The large Mosque hall can accommodate
stronghold for what is unquestionably
the most impressive of Africa’s domestic over 35,000 people making it one of the
Some of the tallest people in the world, the Karamojong are a largest mosques in Sub-Saharan Africa.
proud tribe of fierce warrior semi-nomadic pastoralists found creatures, the Ankole long-horned cattle.
in the northeastern corner of Uganda bordering southern Explore a Ugandan cattle ranch with the
Sudan and Kenya. Karamoja, near Kidepo Valley National Park, Ankole Cow Conservation Association
and experience the unique Ankole cows
is a must-visit for anyone interested in culture; the Karimojong
with their massive horns for yourself.
cultural dynamics are showcased in their village homesteads,
way of living, artifacts, dress, dance and a wealth of other
unique traditional regalia.
Uganda’s ancient kingdoms
Kasubi tombs
The Kasubi Tombs in Kampala is the site of the burial grounds
of four kings (Kabakas) and other members of the Baganda
royal family. It is one of the great cultural sites and remains an
important spiritual and political site for the Buganda people,
as well as an important example of traditional architecture.
It was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001.
24 25 25Social Responsibility
activities
Add purpose to your meeting or
incentive tour in the Pearl of Africa
through visiting one of Uganda’s most
successful conservation initiatives –
easily accessible in and from Entebbe.
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary ecotourism and community over 500 plant species and over 250
participation. bird species in natural settings that Tea tours
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary depict three of Uganda’s ecosystems -
was established by the Chimpanzee Overnight or volunteer at the home wetland, savannah and forest. It serves Uganda is blessed with a verdant green landscape of tea plantations, contoured up and down the rolling hills from the east to
Trust, a Non-Government Organization, of (about) 45 orphan chimpanzees as a rehabilitation center for wildlife,
west, south and central parts of the country. Tea is one of Uganda’s biggest cash crops providing an income for many, with a
as a sanctuary on an island in Lake and experience ‘a day in the life of a with most of the animals having been
Victoria in 1998 for the care and welfare Chimp Carer’ feeding, participating in rescued from smugglers, poachers or climate that produces some of the finest tea in the world. Experience a Tea Tour - visiting plantations and processing plants,
of entrusted captive chimpanzees their health checks and learning the the community. Many are released into cycling on a tea safari through Mpanga Estate, and tasting the different green, black and oolong teas.
whilst conserving as far as possible rich stories of these amazing primates. the wild after a successful rehabilitation
the ecosystem of the island; its most Ngamba Island is also home to an period, whilst others are given a new
famous patron is Jane Goodall. abundance of other wildlife - birds, bats home for educational purposes or due
and monitor lizards to loss of habitat in the wild, which
A 45 minute boat ride from Entebbe, reduces their chances of survival.
the Sanctuary has been globally UWEC Experience the ‘Behind the Scenes’ tour
recognized for its successful - a fascinating opportunity to observe Events Kampala City Festival Along with savoury aromas of roast and
conservation of chimpanzees and their The Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, the animals up close and learn first other local foods, enjoy the electric
habitat, as well as for the educational set on 72-acres of land in Entebbe town hand what goes behind the scenes in Add excitement to your meeting or The Kampala City Festival is the biggest vibes by sensational artists of diverse.
programmes that it delivers to on the shores of Lake Victoria, is home this unique conservation programme. incentive tour in the Pearl of Africa street party in East Africa, a signature Make a date with East Africa’s biggest
Ugandans about chimpanzees, to over 400 indigenous wild animals, through participating in one of Uganda’s event that draws multitudes to street party.
most iconic events. Kampala every first week of October to
celebrate culture, unity and social life. Kampala marathon
Nyege Nyege music festival With Kampala in a constant state of
Agro–tourism benefits slow ripening, this gives rise to the most fragrant change and regeneration, the festival The MTN Kampala Marathon, a social
of coffees produced by Africa’s smallholder farmers; 80% is Nyege Nyege takes place in a projects the image of the City as a responsibility initiative of the MTN
Add education to your meeting or incentive tour in the Pearl of the varietal Robusta grown in the low altitude areas of breathtaking forest setting on the happy, cultural and warm place to be Foundation, is one of the biggest
of Africa through learning about one of Uganda’s most iconic Central, Eastern, Western and Southeastern Uganda - up to shores of the Nile River, just a few whilst promoting positive change to its races in Uganda with over 30,000
agricultural crops. 1,200 meters above sea level, with the other 20% comprising minutes from the Source of the public realm. participants, organized by Uganda
Arabica varietals grown in the highland areas on the slopes of Nile in Jinja. The festival is the most Athletics Federation. If you are an
Coffee tours Mount Elgon in the East and Mt. Rwenzori and Mt. Muhabura important 4-day international music Kampala becomes animated with athletic or marathon enthusiast this
in the Southwestern region (1,500-2,300m above sea level). festival in East Africa known for its flamboyant sights, vibrant sounds and race offers participants a range of
Coffee has been Uganda’s top-earning export crop since the As a coffee enthusiast, savour the deep scent and flavours lively rhythms in concert with an array of challenges such as hills, sharp bends,
1980’s. The Pearl of Africa’s competitive advantage is in its unique Afropolitan party vibe; it is a
of one of the world’s finest coffees on an authentic coffee celebration of Ugandan culture and floats winding through the streets with varied surfaces, inclement, weather,
ability to produce and export a constant supply of superior
quality coffee globally throughout the year, being blessed plantation tour at the end of your business trip, tracing your African music. In 2017 it was voted dancers spinning, whirling and twirling and competing in large groups; the
with two rainy seasons and a wide variety of agro-ecologies. favorite coffee bean to its source deep in the Pearl of Africa, Uganda’s event of the year. to mesmeric beats of celebration along event runs in November every year.
Boasting high altitudes and a cool equatorial climate that from crop to cup. the festival route.
26 27CLIMATE: Tropical. Rainy seasons - March to May, and September to November; dry seasons - December to
Fact files
February and mid June to mid August. Mean annual temperatures range from 16o C (61 F) in the
southwestern highlands to 25o C (77F) in the north-west; but in the north-east, temperatures ex-
ceed 30o C (86F) about 254 days per year.
BORDERS: 2,698km (Democratic Republic of Congo 765km, Kenya 933 km, Rwanda 169 km, South Sudan
435km, Tanzania 396km)
Interesting facts about Uganda
• Uganda is a landlocked country that lies across the Equator right in the heart of Africa in East Africa BANKING HOURS: Mon to Fri 8:30 am to 6:00pm; Sat 9:00 am to 4:00pm
• The country is bordered by Congo in the west, Kenya in the east, Rwanda in the southwest, Tanzania in the south
and Sudan in the north CURRENCY: Uganda Shilling (UGX)
• Uganda is roughly the size of England
• Agriculture is an important part of the country’s economy employing the majority of Ugandans (almost 1/3) BUSINESS HOURS: Mon to Fri 8:30 am to 5:30pm
• Mountain gorillas in Uganda are the major attraction for international tourists; it is estimated that more than half
of the world’s population lives in Uganda (in Bwindi Impenetrable and Virunga National Parks)
ELEVATIONS: Highest Point: Margherita Peak on Mount Stanley at 5,110 metres
• Tree climbing lions, a rarity in Africa, have their home in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Uganda has ten beautiful and varied National Parks – two of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites – Bwindi Im-
penetrable Forest and Rwenzori Mountains National Park TRIBES: Buganda, Iteso, Basoga, Banyankore, Banyarwanda, Bakiga, Langis, Acholi, Lugbara, Banyoro,
• Uganda has 56 tribes and 9 indigenous communities that were recognized in the constitution amendment of 2005 Batoro, Karamojong, Bagisu, Madi, Japadhola, Samia, Kakwa, Nubian, Bagwere, Banyole, Bakonzo,
Alur, Kumam, among others.
• Uganda is home to some of the world’s tallest (Karimojong in the northeast) and shortest (Batwa Pygmies in the
southwest) people
• Kasubi Tombs is an important cultural royal burial ground and a UNESCO World Heritage site POPULATION: 39,4 million (2018 estimate – Bureau of Statistics)
• English is the official language with Luganda and Swahili widely spoken throughout the country
ELECTRICITY: 240 volts AC50 Hz - square-pin plugs mostly used
CAPITAL: Kampala
EXCHANGE RATE: US $ 1 = UGX 3,800 (average October 2018)
AREA: 93,065 km2 (land - 76,101 km2, water - 16,965 km2)
HISTORY: Uganda gained independence from Britain in 1962, maintaining its Commonwealth membership.
MAJOR INDUSTRIES: Cotton, coffee, tea, sugar, tobacco and textiles.
GEOGRAPHY: Uganda is landlocked. The south of the country includes a substantial portion of Lake Victoria.
The center is dominated by Lake Kyoga.
INTERNATIONAL DIALLING CODE: +256
TIME: GMT +3
RELIGIONS: Christian 84% and Muslim 12% (2002 Census)
TOPOGRAPHY: The greater part of Uganda consists of a plateau. Along the western border are the Rwenzori
Mountains. The eastern frontier is dominated by Mount Elgon, while the Western Rift Valley
runs from north to south through the western half of the country.
28 29Getting around the Pearl
Travelling by air provides our visitors with
exceptional views of lakes, rift valley plains,
the spectacular Rwenzori snow-capped
mountains and vast rainforests.
For tourism purposes, airstrips that have
been developed for easy connection to
all major destinations within the country
include: Apoka (a two-hour direct flight
to Kidepo Valley National Park), Pakuba
(Murchison Falls National Park), Bugungu,
Kasese Airport (for access to Queen Elizabeth
and Kibale National Parks), Mweya, Kihihi,
Kayonza and Kisoro.
Journey to and Domestically Eagle Air and Aerolink service
these airstrips with regular flights. There are
within the Pearl
also charter flights available to the different
parts of the country offered by Kampala Aero
Club, Ndege Juu Ya Africa and Air Serv.
For a truly memorable incentive tour …
helicopter charters are available through
Kampala Executive Aviation.
Most visitors however tour Uganda by road,
Getting to the Pearl experiencing the diverse landscapes en-
route. From Kampala there is a good network
All international flights land at Entebbe International Airport, which is the only of highways radiating out to the regions,
international airport in the country. International airlines to Uganda include; Turkish although the onward journey to the national
Airlines, Qatar Airways, British Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Emirates Airlines, parks is typically along dirt roads.
and Brussels Airlines.
The Entebbe-Kampala Expressway has eased
Inter-Africa airlines include: Ethiopian Airlines, South African Airways, Egypt Air, Air access to the capital city from Entebbe
International Airport. Taxis and large buses
Tanzania, Air Uganda, Kenya Airways, RwandAir, Fly 540 and Precision Airlines.
are available for charter to move delegates
around Kampala and Entebbe.
To visit one of Lake Victoria’s beautiful
islands, there is a regular ferry service
connecting Entebbe and the Ssese Islands.
These islands are one of the most visited
places in the country by both local and
international visitors for relaxation. Also
accessible by speedboat or helicopter
from Entebbe is Ngamba Island, the well-
known conservation Chimpanzee Sanctuary
established in 1998 and supported by the
Jane Goodall Institute.
30 31 31P.O.Box 6748 Kampala Uganda
Tel: +256 786 878 983 • Email: sarah@ucb.co.ug
Web: ucb.co.ugYou can also read
