Uganda - Bwindi Forest National Park

Visit Uganda

Tourism in Uganda : Guide to Visiting Uganda

Visit Uganda – This is a complete travel Guide for tourist planning to Visit Uganda for a Safari and other reasons. Uganda, also known as the pearl of Africa is one of the top tourist destination in East Africa with several attractions for you to visit and enjoy. Tourism in Uganda has developed over the past years and therefore the number of people visiting Uganda has greatly increased.

Things to Do in Uganda: What to See when you visit Uganda

Top places and attractions in Uganda, Uganda sight seeing

Tourism in Uganda – Uganda is one of the countries which welcomed explorers, missionaries and other travelers from Europe who had come on different missions but were amazed at the beauty that was hidden in this part of Africa. They saw a lot of interesting things in the region and appreciated, they named some of them after themselves or their leaders. Churchill was overwhelmed by Uganda’s wondrous environmental attributes, good climate and other things and termed it “the Pearl of Africa” which is today her brand name.

Karamojong People in nothern Uganda

Uganda is a comfortable place to stay because of the good climate. It has a tropical climate characterized by two seasons; the dry season and the wet/rainy season. There are two dry seasons from December to February and the second one from June to July and two rainy seasons in the months of September to November and from March to May. During the hottest months (January and February) the temperatures rise to a maximum of 33⁰C but the case is different in the northern part because it is hotter and temperatures can reach about 40⁰C.

There is a variety of things to see when you visit Uganda, including wildlife, mountains, water bodies, museums and historical sites among others. The highlight for travel to Uganda is an experience of the wildlife though a range of non-wildlife activities are combined with the tour to make it an incredible Uganda safari. This article summarizes the top attractions in Uganda and the things you can do when visiting Uganda it for a safari tour. They include;

Bwindi impenetrable national park

Bwindi Impenetrable forest national park is a popular African destination because it is the prime gorilla trekking destination. It is home to approximately half of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas and trekking in this park offers the highest chances of seeing the gorillas more than in any other mountain gorilla destinations. Apart from gorilla trekking, other things to do around Bwindi include birding, Batwa experience, community walk and cultural encounters and nature walks. Its therefore recommended that you include Bwindi Gorilla trekking on your to do list when you visit Uganda.

Mgahinga national park

Mgahinga national park is located near Bwindi national park and it is also a home to mountain gorillas. It is located in the far southwestern part of Uganda and is part of the Virunga Conservation area. Mgahinga is also home to golden monkeys and many other forest mammals including forest elephants, forest buffaloes and bush pigs among others and about 300 bird species. Mgahinga also hosts three of the eight Virunga volcanoes. Things to do in Mgahinga national park are gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, bird watching, hiking the volcanoes and nature walks. You can also go for Batwa trail experience to get an insight of how the Batwa lived in the forests around the region before they were evicted.

Murchison falls national park

Murchison falls National Park is located in the northwestern part of Uganda. It is Uganda’s largest national park and has a large popular of different kinds of animals which are easily spotted around the savannah grasslands, the acacia grasslands and in other vegetation of the park. The park is divided into two parts by the Nile which at some point forces through a 7meters gorge and forms the strongest waterfalls in the world known as Murchison falls. Getting to the waterfalls and watch the thunderous water flow through the gorge gives an exceptional thrill. This is one of the destinations with a lot of exciting things to do including hiking to the top of the falls, a boat cruise along the Nile, game drives, bird watching, nature walks, chimp trekking in Budongo forest and Hot air balloon. Murchison falls National Park is laos a great place for honeymoon and relaxation.

Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi is the second deepest lake in Africa after Lake Tanganyika in Tanzania. This lake is beautifully dotted with 29 islands which you can visit by use of a canoe. This place has a lot of small birds from which its name was derived. Bunyonyi locally means “small birds”. The area offers spectacular views of the Virunga volcanoes. You can go canoeing, bird watching or ride bikes when you are at Lake Bunyonyi.

Queen Elizabeth national park

This is the second largest national park in Uganda after Murchison falls national park and it is popularly known for the Tree climbing lions found in the southern sector called Ishasha. The park has five vegetation types which include savannah grasslands, acacia grasslands, swamps and wetlands, bushes and thickets and forests which harbor a range of animals such as elephants, buffaloes, water bucks, warthogs, Uganda kobs, leopards, lions and hyenas among others. Its forests are habitats for primates including chimps, black and white colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys and olive baboons among others. Queen Elizabeth national park has the highest number of bird species in East Africa. Queen Elizabeth national park also has a range of things to do. They include; lion tracking, game drives, bird watching, chimp trekking, boat cruise, nature walks, a drive around thye craters, a visit to the bat cave and forest walks.

Kibale national park

Are you looking for an outstanding destination fopr chimp trekking? Kiable national park is the ultimate place to offer an extremely thrilling tour for chimp trekking. This park is a tropical forest with a dense population of chimpanzees. Booking for your chimp trekking tour in Kibale offers a chance of 98% to see the primates. Apart from chimp trekking, you can do birding, community walk and chimp habituation in Kibale national.

Source of the River Nile, Jinja

The length of the River Nile is debatable as some documents say that it is the longest river while others say that it is the second longest river in the world. Regardless, it is clear that the river’s source is in Uganda. River Nile starts its journey from East of Uganda as where it exists from Lake Victoria flowing northwards through Lake Albert. This initial section of the Nile is a great site for a number of activities including boat cruise to the source of the Nile, white water rafting, kayaking, horse riding, riding quad bikes and relaxing at the River.

Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is the largest fresh after lake in Africa and second in the whole world after Lake Superior. It is shared by Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. It is on this lake where we find the beautiful Ssese islands which you can visit for different activities. Lake Victoria has cool relaxation areas like beaches and resorts.

Lake Victoria also hosts the Ngamba Island where we have the only Chimp sanctuary in Uganda. A visit to the sanctuary offers an opportunity to participate in activities of caring about the chimps there.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa Rhino sanctuary was established to re-introduce rhinos in Uganda after they had got extinct many years back. The sanctuary is located in Nakasongola district off Kampala-Gulu highway before Kaffu from Kampala city. You can visit Ziwa Rhino sanctuary on your safari to Murchison falls national park. Rhino tracking is the main thing to do at Ziwa rhino tracking. Other things to do at the sanctuary include bird watching and nature walks.

Rwenzori Mountains

The Rwenzori Mountains are the major destination for hiking in Uganda. They have the highest peak in Uganda standing at a height of 5109m above the sea level. The hike Mount Stanley which is one of the ranges leads you to the snow caped peak. As you hike along the Rwenzori mountains, you come across waterfalls, streams of water, rare vegetation and rare species of wildlife like the three horned Jackson’s Chameleon among other things.

Sipi falls

The Sipi falls in Kapchorwa district in Eastern Uganda are one of the most beautiful place to visit when travel to Uganda. There are three waterfalls at different but close location. Getting to the falls requires a hike and once you reach there, you will be thrilled at what you will see.

Fort Portal

Fort Portal is a tourism town in western Uganda. It is a beautiful town with several hills and a range of attractions including Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru, the palace of Toro kingdom, Karambi tombs, the crater lakes and the tea plantations. You can also camp in the nearby areas like at Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve.

Kampala city

Kampala is the capital of Uganda. Located in the central region, Kampala is the largest and busiest city in Uganda. The city was established in an area with a hilly terrain which gives it a unique beauty on the various hills. There are 7 main hills on which the city started though it later on extended further. Places to visit in Kampala include the Uganda Museum, Namugongo martyrs shrine, Kasubi tombs, Bahai temple, Mengo palace, Rubaga Church, Namirembe Cathedral and Nakasero among others.

Best time to visit Uganda

May 6, 2020/by bwindigorilla

Teso People

Uganda

Iteso People and their culture

The Teso people are one of the Ethnic Groups in the Eastern region of Uganda and they occupy some parts of Kenya. The Teso is the name given to the traditional inhabitant for the Teso people. The Teso people occupy the sub regions of the current districts of KUM, Amuuria district, Kumi District, Katatwi district, Palisa district, Kaberamindo district, and Bukedea district. The Iteso people speak the Nilotics language. The eastern Nilotics are divided into two categories such as the Teso Speaking plus the Maa speaking who known as the Maasai branch. The Iteso people are further divided into other category, the Ateso Speaking people and the Karamojong group such as the turkana, Jie, Ikaramojong as well the Dodoth in Uganda and Kenya.

Historical background and culture of the Iteso People

The Iteso People are believed to have originated from Sudan over some period back though it not possible to calculate their period of movement. Other theories assume that Iteso Originated from the Karamojong and took the south direction. This is believed to have happened sometime back since the Iteso don’t bear the cultural names and rituals like the Karamojong. Most of the Iteso clan names are mixed with the Bantu speaking people and the Nilotics. The Iteso people are also mixed with the Japadola due their migration.

During the Colonial era, the Iteso had a cool relationship with the pre-colonial period and they were acrimonious. Due to the intermarriages, the Iteso were intermixed with their neighbors and this diluted their customs and traditional element that can be as well spotted in the nearby surrounding people.

The Iteso situated in the Kenya and Uganda, are as a result of the britsh colonial rule who indirectly ruled them. In the 1902 the western Kenya was transferred from Uganda to Kenya.

The Economic set up of the Iteso

The staple food for the Teso people is Finger Millet and Sorghum however the colonial offices introduced cassava to act as a supplement to their food and to assist them with stand famine. The cassava was cooked together with millet and sorghum. The women were good at growing vegetables, in their small gardens near their houses and they could gather wild foods such as the Mushrooms Delicacy, whilst the Men were busy cattle herdsmen grazing cattle.

The Teso as well depended on agriculture and the main cash crops grown were cotton and this grown by both women and men and they had separate plots of land and they each earned individual income. The oxen were used for plowing other household could hire labor. Other cash crops that were grown include; the tobacco and Maize which were grown during the long rains. The commercial activities included owning small shops, trading cattle and also employment in the public sector jobs to act as local administrators and school teachers.

Marriage and Family

The Marriage among the Teso people was recognized from two points of views; the spouses come together as an alliance it happens between two exogamous clans. The first alliance is expressed in the practical arrangement of establishing a household while as the second one is expressed in the ceremonial rituals as well as healing practices. Most Iteso people both man and women entered in polygamous marriages although this reduced in the early colonial era. One man could marry about 4 or more women who will less than one umbrella and they respected their husband. Divorce was rare thing since whenever divorced happened then the parents of girl were required to return bride wealth that was paid when taking the girl from their parents.

May 4, 2020/by bwindigorilla

Tooro Kingdom

Uganda

The Kingdom Of Tooro

Tooro Kingdom is among the five Traditional Kingdoms that is situated in the borders of Uganda. The king to the Tooro Kingdom is referred to as Omukama and apparently the Tooro king is called Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV. The people of the Tooro Kingdom are referred to as the Batooro and the language spoken is called Rutooro.

Historically the Tooro kingdom was founded by the Omukama Kaboyo Olimi I who was the oldest son of the Omukama of Bunyoro Nyamutukura Kyebambe III of Bunyoro. He succeeded his father and established an independent kingdom his own which he placed on the river Muziizi. This was absorbed with in the Bunyoro Kitara in the year 1876. Just like any other kingdoms of Busoga, Buganda, Bunyoro and like, Tooro’s kingdom was abolished in 1967 during Milton Oboto’s Regime and it was established in 1993.

There are about 70 clans with in the Tooro kingdom recognized according to the 1999 constitution but only about 20 clans are active with the Tooro Kingdom activities. These Clans include; Abalisa, Abibiito, Abagweri, Ababbopi, Abasumbi among others. The Batooro people are proud of their kingdom and everyone has a got a petty name called Empaako, the young female children are called Abwooli whilst the young male children whose Empaako is not known is called Apuuli. Other Empaako names include; Abbooki, Acaali, Akiiki, Araali, Atwooki, Abbooki, Abbala, Atwooki among others. Every Empaako name has got its secret precious meaning.

Social and economic set up of the Batooro people

Traditionally the Batooro society has been distinguished with the Economic activities but not the caste. There are two classes among the Batooro, the Bairu and Bahuma category of people. The Bairu are known to be the land cultivators while as the Bahuma are believed to be cattle keepers. The two categories of people have been significant in the production of meat, milk, butter, ghee as well as the food products needed, they grew crops such as the Millet, bananas, sweat potatoes, Sorghum, vegetation and peas among others.

The Batooro are very united people and led by their unifying leader Omukama who is their cultural leader under the constitution. The Batooro also supplemented their economic activities such as black smith and they produced items like hoes, axes, arrowheads, spears, Knives among others.

Libyan Relationship with the Kingdom

The Libya president Maumar Gaddafi is recognized for his great relationship with the Royal Family of the Tooro Kingdom. The 2001, the Current Leader King Oyo decided to appoint him as one of his special advisor. In the same year Gaddafi attended King Oyo sixth Anniversary celebration and this is when he was announced as the defender of Toro Kingdom. Due to their relationship, Gaddafi had to participate in the funding of the renovation of the palace thus is offered 200,000 USD.

According to the social set up, marriage was very significant to the Batooro and if a man was not married he regarded incomplete not until he married. Traditionally the Batooro marriage was organized by the parents of the girl and boy that are going to get married. The traditional marriage involved the middle man who makes research on the girl family and behavior before he is approved to get married to the boy.

Some of the tourists attractions in Toro Kingdom include;

Kibale forest national park famous for the primate safaris especially the Uganda chimpanzee trekking safaris, the snow caped mountains of the moon- mountain Rwenzori, Semiliki National park the best place for birding Safaris in Uganda, Amabere Caves known as the breasts of Nyinamwiru, the Tooro Palace home to the king of the Toro Kingdom, Tooro Botanical Garden, Karambi Royal Tombs where several Toro Kings are buried and the royal family members are buried, lake Albert situated on the border of DR-Congo and Uganda and in the western region among other attractions.

May 4, 2020/by bwindigorilla

Gisu People

Uganda

The Bagisu People

Bamasaba of eastern Uganda

Gisu People – The Bagisu People are as well known as Bamasaba, they are situated in the western and southern Halves of Mount. Elgon which stretches west inform of fingers of the Hand traversing through steep and tidal valleys which is amidst them. The Bagisu land in south cracked and comprises of Jumble Hills Wedged against the high Escarpment such as the crushed tablecloth. The Escarpment perishes gradually to form sweeping plains spreading in the north east which is a resident to the Iteso Tribes.

The Bagishu people speak the common language known as Lumasaba which is also well referred to as the Lugisu. The Bagishu people are famously for their circumcision traditional rituals which are known as Imbalu. These traditional Rituals are performed every two years in the month of August.

History of the Bagishu people

The Bagisu are believed to have originated from the hole of Mountain Elgon. Their ancient life was anti-social and survival in the society was attached to the Slogan “Survival to the Fittest”. Although little is described about the Bagishu, they are believed to be close relatives to the sub group of the Luhya inhabiting some parts of Kenya. The early immigrants into the indigenous Bagisu are known to have entered Mt. Elgon Area in the 16^th century coming from the Eastern Plains. Bagisu is part of Bantu ethnic groups since their language has got words of Bantu speakers. ]

The Political set up of the Bagisu

The Bagisu people have a weak political tradition structures which are based on Clans. Each clan with in the Bagishu people has its own cultural leader who is known as Umwami we Sikoka-the chief of the clan. The clan chiefs were traditionally chosen basing on the wisdom and their wealth, the Chiefs play the duties of maintaining Law and Order, emphasized unit among the people and they encouraged people to respect and maintain the cultural values of the clan. Some of the clan cultural values included making Sacrifices to their ancestral spirits.

Circumcision Rituals

This one of the Fascinating Unique Social customs of the Bagisu people and this is a male Circumcision that has a mysterious origin among the Bagisu. However their tradition claim that the practice originated Kalenjin demand in the time when Masaba who is a hero ancestor wanted to marry a Kalenjin Girl. Other theories assume that the circumcision originated from the demand to make the male complete with their sexual organs and the practice started with an aim of serving the life of the male Bagisu people.

The Bagisu are highly superstitious people.

Before the circumcision is done, there is a tradition herb that was administered to the male victim so as to arouse their desire for circumcision. This herb is called Itinanyi which is as well tied on the big toe of the candidate to be circumcised although this is done when he is unaware. According to the power that is believed to be in the local herb ityanyi, if circumcision is delayed to the candidate who is supposed to be circumcised, this candidate may end up circumcising himself due to the uncontrolled desire that enters in the mind. Circumcision rituals with in the Bagisu is done only every after past two years. This traditional ritual is performing to boys that have reached their puberty. Those who tried to doge the ritual practice are usually hunted by force. The candidates to be circumcised are always tuned by walking them around for about 3 days on the village, then smear them with cassava floor and they are painted with the Malwa Yeast paste, then their relatives and friends will dance the tradition dances demonstrating the circumcision while drumming and singing.

Girl’s part

For the Girls specifically the sisters of the candidate to be circumcised are fully engaged in the circumcision tradition ritual. This is through participating in the dancing and singing as they run around the village. After circumcision in done now the candidates are believed to have been transitioned into a true mature male and a true Mugisu person. The boys that are not circumcised is referred to as Musinde and circumcision operation is done very fast carefully.

The circumcision is done by two people, the circumciser and the assistant who pulls the foreskin of the penis before the Circumciser cuts it off. The circumciser does three cuttings and ends the Ritual.

After the circumcision

After the circumcision the candidates are taken to their fathers wrapped in a piece of cloth and made to sit down on a stool. He is made to walk around his father’s house for three days and during these days he is not allowed to eat using his hands, he is fed. After those three days the circumciser is called upon to wash his hands before he starts eating and here makes the completion of the initiation into manhood. It after the circumcision ritauls then the initiated man is allowed to marry and he is taught the duties of manhood include agriculture as an important activity and emphasized to behave as a man always. However according to their traditional belief healing of the wood will depend on how many goats were slaughtered during circumcision.

After Healing

After healing of their wood all candidates that were circumcised are required to attend the ritual which is performed. The ceremonial ritual is referred to as the Iremba. It is always a big function were even government officials are invited to attend the ritual. During this ritual ceremony, any girl from the community was invited to play sex with the girl and the girl was not supposed to refuse and if she refuses the girl was cursed not have children her marriage.

Attractions in Bagisu Land include;

Mountain Elgon national park
Mbale Town
Sipi Falls
Semei Kakungulu Burial site

May 4, 2020/by bwindigorilla

Bokora Wildlife Reserve

Uganda

Bokora Coriddor Game Reserve

Also known as Bokora Corridor Game reserve, Bokora Wildlife Reserve is the second wildlife reserve in Uganda. It covers an area of 794 square miles in northeastern Uganda. Bokora wildlife reserve was gazzeted in 1964 and made part of the large Karamoja wildlife conservation region which also consists of Matheniko game reserve and Pian Upe wildlife reserve. The three game reserves in the region were named after the ethnic group that lives close to it, for example the Bokora live near Bokora wildlife reserve, the Matheniko live close to Matheniko wildlife reserve and the Pian and the Upe live close to Pian Upe wildlife reserve.

Bokora wildlife reserve is mainly covered by savannah grasslands and then shrubs, bushes and short trees. The reserve also has swamps like Loporokocho swamp. The northern side of the reserve hosts two moiuntains; Kadam and Napak. The scenery of the entire reserve is beautiful.

Wildlife in Bokora Wildlife reserve

The vegetation in Bokora wildlife reserve is mainly dry and hard because of the semi-arid conditions of the area. The trees and grass in the reserve and the region survive there because they have adaptations that make them stand during the long dry weather conditions. Bokora corridor game reserve is a habitat for a wide variety of animals including buffaloes, elands, gazelles, lesser kudu, Oribi, Roan antelopes, Uganda kobs, Reedbuck, zebra, Hartebeest, Topi, Bright’s gazelle, the Rothschild’s giraffes, spotted hyenas, stripped hyena, cheetah, lions and leopards and many others.

There is a range of bird species in different points of the reserve. Bird lovers get remarkable birding tours after seeing birds such as ostriches, Dusky Turtle, the Thick-billed Honey, Jackson’s hornbill, Eastern bronze pigeon, Hartlaub’s Turaco, White-headed Buffalo weaver, African hill babbler, Black-throated wattle-eye, Grey-cuckoo shrike, Lemon dove, the Alpine chat, the Mountain yellow wabbler and many others. Loporokocho swamp is one of the best bird watching sites in Bokora Wildlife reserve.

Things to do at Bokora Wildlife reserve

The major activities done at the reserve include;

Game drives

Bokora Wildlife reserve has mainly open grasslands that offers clear and spectacular views of vast areas around the reserve. The combination of the vegetation and the weather are perfect for game drives. You can clearly see your sightings such as lions, cheetahs, hyenas and other animals like the antelopes.

Birding

Bokora wildlife reserve has a wonderful range of bird species. It is home to the world’s largest bird “the ostrich”. Ostriches are the common and popular birds in Bokora game reserve because the conditions are ideal for them. They can survive in dry weather conditions. The open plains help the ostriches to see predators that want to prey on them as well as animals that want to feed on their eggs.

Visiting the Karamajong

When planning to visit Bokora Wildlife Reserve, endeavor not to miss meeting the Karamajong people who live in this region. They are one of the ethnic groups that have kept their culture original by failing to embrace modernity. The Karamajong are nomadic pastoralists who depend on their cows for milk, meat, blood, hides and manure. They are great entertainers who dance and sing for visitors and their traditional dance involves jumping high in the air.

Accommodation in Bokora wildlife reserve

The reserve doesn’t have standard accommodations. The best option there is camping and good news is that camping is enjoyable and rewarding as the tents are set in areas where you can watch the animals and other features. Those who don’t want to camp can stay in hotels in Kotido and Moroto towns.

Best time to visit Bokora wildlife reserve

Bokora Corridor Game Reserve can be visited any time of the year but the dry season is the best because it is easy to access most areas. There are two dry seasons; from December to February and from June to September. The region experiences the rainy season from March to May and October to November. It may become quite hard to maneuver through some roads at the destination during the rainy season because they become slippery. However, during the driest months of January and February, it gets very hot that it may be unbearable. Temperatures rise over 35⁰C.

The transport infrastructure to and in Bokora Wildlife Reserve is poor, roads are not good which makes them impassable during the rainy season. Accommodation as well needs to be considered in this place so that visitors who wish to enjoy typical wilderness in Uganda have a range of places to visit with convenience.

May 4, 2020/by bwindigorilla

Busoga Kingdom

Uganda

Busoga Culture – Kingdom of Busoga

Busoga kingdom is one of the famously known as the traditional Bantu Kingdom and it belongs to one of the five constitutional monarchies in the current Uganda. The Busoga Kingdom is recognized as a culture institution that is very significant in the promotion unity, moral behaviors and the popular participation in the development programs as well as improving on the general standard of living with in the Busoga region.

The Busoga kingdoms fights vigorously for oneness in people with the geared goals of social, cultural and economic prosperity plus the establishment of the “Kyabazinga” which is the local tittle given to the King of Busoga. The word Busoga means the “Land of People (Soga)”. The Busoga kingdom comprises of about 11 principalities of the people of Basoga (people), if is one person is called “Musoga”

The Busoga kingdom has its capital in Bugembe town Adjacent to Jinja which is the second largest city in Uganda after Kampala and Jinja city is famous known as the Adventure capital of East Africa. The Busoga Kingdom consists of about 8 districts such as the Luuka, Busiki, Kamuli, Mayuge, Kaliro, and Bugiri district. Each district is led by a chairperson/ local Council Five who is elected by the people while the Municipalities are led by a mayor who is also elected.

Jinja city is the famous known as the economic and industrial hub of the Busoga areas. The Busoga region is surrounded by Lake Kyoga and here it is separated from the Lango area in the north, it is neighbored by the Buganda kingdom in the west separated by the Victoria, it is bordered by Tanzania and Kenya in the south and it is separated by Lake Victoria. It is as well bordered by the small groups of the Bagishu and Bugwere and they are separated from the Busoga kingdom by River Mpologoma.

The Kyabazinga( King)

The Busoga kingdom is headed by the Isebantu Kyabazinga and apparently he is known as William Kadhumbula Gabula Nadiope IV. Isebantu means the father of all people and this names stands as a symbol of unity, it was given out of expression as well as recognition from the Basoga people with an essence that the Isebantu brings all people together in love and oneness. The Isebantu Kyabazinga acts as the cultural leader of the Busoga kingdom and according to traditions, the Kyabazinga is supposed be elected although it rotates between chiefs during the timely election of the Lukiiko.

The kazinga was traditionally elected from the five hereditary chief who are believed to trace their origin from the Bunyoro Kitara kingdom. However apparently there has been a change in the Busoga constitution and it this has been traditionally modified so as to all the 11 hereditary chiefs to have a chance to stand in the Election of the Kyabazinga kingship position and the leadership term has limit, it an elected position for life although initially the appointment was for five years.

Ever since 1939 up today, the Busoga kingdom has experienced the Kyabazinga Regimes of under 5 tradition elected leaders, such as between 1939-1949 the First Kyabazinga was Ezekiel Tenywa Wako, in 1949-1955 the second Kyabazinga was William Wilberforce Nadiope II, the third regime 1955-1967 he was Henry Wako Muloki and between 1967-1995 it was Interregnum and this the time the recurrent government restored monarchies in Uganda, 1995-2008 he was Henry Wako Muloki and finally from 2014 until present today, he is Henry Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV.

The Economic activity in Busoga kingdom has been agriculture and it has been significant in the establishment of the Busoga capital. Between the 1920 and 1970 the cash crops like cotton was grown and production was so massive in the Busoga region which is one of the factors that allowed the Busoga capital to become the Agri-indutrial Centre along with other factories. The Busoga kingdom became an economic importance when the railway line was helped the Busoga capital to raise its economic flag at the same time enhanced the establishment of other infrastructures and a lot of casual jobs were generated to the Busoga people who came from various areas to work in factories as well as domestic work.

There was improvement of services such as Electricity, piped water, Hospitals, Roads and schools among others. The farmers in the Busoga regions who were going both the cash crops and food crops were assured of the market for their produce. Crops which were grown include coffee, cotton, potatoes, Cassava, Bananas, vegetables and the fruits among others.

People’s standards of living improved, there was rapid increase in the revenue of the Busoga kingdom, there was both economic production which was on a high demand but still people could as well grow crops for subsistence consumption. By the time Uganda achieved its independence in 1962, Busoga kingdom was well established and the Jinja city which was the capital of Busoga was home to about 70% of industries in Uganda including the Nalubale Power Station which is known for supplying Electricity to both Uganda and Kenya and Uganda was a habitat for most of the Asian population who were significant in establishing the East African largest commercial centers.

Attractions and historical sites in Busoga kingdom

Kagulu Rock

The Kagulu Rock is known as the first Settlement region for the Bunyoro-Basoga led the Mukama. However much the Kagulu’s culture influence was wide range, there is a legacy landmark which is visible known as the Kagulu Rock. The Kagulu Rock is situated between two roads branch at its foots one leading to Gwaya and another to Lyingo. The summit of the rock will allow you to enjoy the spectacular scenic views of the Busoga region and it has steps which will help you to access the top. Kagulu Rock for a long time has been one of the Tourist attractions in the eastern region of Uganda and it has caught a glimpse sight to NGO workers with in the region and apparently it is one of the impressive tourist attractions in Busoga region.

Source of the Nile

The source of the Nile is the Origin Point of flow of the second longest river-River Nile in the World. River Separates from Lake Victoria in Jinja which is the adventure capital of East Africa. The source of Nile was discovered by John Speke who was one of the early European explorers in Uganda. Apparently the source of the Nile is one of the key tourist attractions in Uganda that hosts numerous numbers of visitors from all over the world.

Budhumbula Shrine and Palace

The tourist attraction is located about 2 kilometers from Kamuli- Jinja Highway. It houses various shrines and it is a home to the Late Kyabazinga William Wilberforce Kadhumbula Nadiope who passed on in 1976. The shrines are covered by Marbles and the site houses other shrines of the Royal Family such as Nadiope Father and Mother plus the shrines of his son as well as the former government minister in Uganda called Yuliya Babirye Nadiope. The palace is one of the legacy structures of the British colonial Government that was donated in 1914.

Lake Victoria

The Busoga kingdom is bordered by Lake Victoria in south which is the one the Africa’s great lakes with fresh waters. The Lake Victoria coastline runs from east of Jinja to the border of Kenya.

Bujjagali Falls

This was the former waterfall that was submerged in November 2011 by the Bujjagali Dam; it is one of the tourist attractions as an hydropower station over the victoria Nile which produces for the Bujjagali Falls in Uganda

May 2, 2020/by bwindigorilla

Buganda kingdom

Uganda

Buganda Culture

Buganda kingdom and Buganda Culture – Buganda is known as a subnational Kingdom with in the Pearl of Africa and it is largest among the traditional kingdoms in the current Uganda. The people of Buganda are known as Ganda and the Buganda kingdom occupies all the central region of Uganda and it is home to the Kampala capital city of Uganda.

The Buganda Kingdom is for long known in the history of Uganda ever since the 14^th century during the reign of King Kato Kintu who is believed to be the founder of the Buganda dynasty. The Buganda kingdom has been growing a very fast rate and apparently is known as the largest and most powerful empire in the entire East Africa. In the 12^th century, the current Buganda kingdom was sparsely populated.

However, in the era of the scramble for Africa, the Buganda Kingdom tried several attempts to fight for its independence against the British rule but these were unsuccessful although it was made the center of the British protectorate government and a lot of Buganda people got an insight to become colonial administrators and the Buganda Kingdom became the chief producer of coffee and cotton.

Uganda acquired its independence, the Buganda kingdoms was abolished by the First President Obote along with other monarchies in various regions of Uganda this followed in the dictatorship Regime of Idi Amin. However when the National Resistance Movement led by Yoweri Museveni achieved power, he restored backed the monarchies and the Buganda kingdom was restored in the 1993.

Apparently Buganda kingdom is a monarchy with a very high level of self-government away from the Ugandan state. It is important to note that there is still a continuous tension between the Uganda Government and the Kingdom which gives a clear definition of the political image in Uganda.

Ever since the Restoration of Buganda kingdom, the King of Buganda is known as Kabaka and he has been Kabaka Muwenda Mutebi II up to-date. The King of the Buganda kingdom is apparently recognized as the 36^th Kabaka of Buganda with his current Queen Nnabagereka known as Queen Sylvia Nagginda.

The Buganda Kingdom is bordered by River Nile in East, Lake Victoria in the south, River Kafu in the north east and Lake Kyoga in the north. The Luganda Language is the mother language of the Buganda kingdom although English is the official language but the Luganda language is widely spoken in the central region of Uganda.

The geographically the Buganda Kingdom is established on the rolling hillside and the valleys and hilltops were used for Agriculture where food crops were grown. Initially each village was surrounded by chiefs thus it was easy to hold their meetings as subjects of the kabaka and these were significant in maintaining order, distributing resources as well a reinforcing social solidarity according to the orders of the Kabaka and his decision making.

The Buganda Government

The current leader of the Buganda kingdom is well-known as the Kabaka Muwenda Mutebi II who has been in leadership ever since the restoration of the Buganda kingdom in 1993. The leader of the Buganda government is known as the Katikiro Charles Mayiga who was the appointed prime minister by the King of Buganda in 2013. The Buganda kingdom has a parliament known as the Lukiiko.

Before Sighing the Buganda Agreement of 1900, the Buganda Kingdom was an absolute Monarchy under the leadership of the Kabaka. By then they were three categories of the Kabaka, 1.chiefs also called Bakungu or Administrative chiefs, these were appointed by the Kabaka, 2.the Traditional Bataka chieftains plus the batangole chiefs, these served as representatives of the king, they were responsible for Supervising Royal estates, maintaining the internal security in the kingdom as well as military duties.

This helped to enhance the duties of the Lukiiko which acted as the advisory council to the Kabaka. In the 1955 the Buganda kingdom changed from the absolute monarchy to the constitutional monarchy. Therefore by the time Uganda achieved its independence, the Buganda Kingdom had the ability to exercise its own self-government at a high degree. The Buganda Kingdom has got 52 recognized clans and wit in these clans there about four sub different groups trace the historical waves of immigration to Buganda.

The economic activity of Buganda Kingdom

Traditionally the economy of Buganda relied on crop cultivation and cattle keeping were a minor activity. However many Buganda’s household hired people outside the Buganda to come and take care of their cattle especially those that owned farms of livestock. Matooke (Banana) is the staple food of the baganda and it offered an economic base for the densely populated region central. The baganda Women performed most of the agricultural work whilst the men were busy engaged in the politics and Commerce.

Tourist attractions in Buganda Kingdom

There is a wide range of tourist attractions in the Buganda Kingdom which include;

The Royal Mile

This is one of the places that will give you a glimpse sight experience of the ancient architectural designs. The Royal mile is a road that was constructed perfectly in a straight line to connect the Bulange-Buganda parliament to the Twekobe-the Kabaka’s Palace. The King of Buganda kingdom uses this road to travel to both the administration works and Royal mile. Apparently, the royal mile is one of the tourist attractions in the Kampala and it is always included on the Kampala city tour itinerary.

Nantawetwa Monument

This is situated within the Centre of the Royal Mile and is found on a wide round about that runs through the middle in a single, the road is only used by the Kabaka and the gate that is in the center is kept closed so as to limit and restrict it from the commoners.

The Kabaka’s palace-Twekobe

The kabaka’s place was established by Kabaka Mwanga II and the up to now the palace serves as the official residence of the all the last 6 kings of the Buganda kingdom. The word Twekobe-means come together in oneness for a cause, therefore the people of Buganda came together to construct a palace for the Kabaka on the Mengo hill and it is in palace that the Buganda agreement was signed in 1900 which defined the future of Uganda.

Bulange; The Buganda Parliament

One of the reasons why the Buganda parliament was constructed directly opposite kabaka palace is that Enemies to kingdom can easily be spotted and sighted. The Bulange was constructed during the colonial regime under the leadership of Kabaka Muteesa II with a purpose of acting as the parliament/ lukiiko of Buganda kingdom.

Other attractions include;

Kabaka’s lake
Nakayima tree
Ssezibwa Falls
Katereke Prison Ditch
Equator crossing
Mpambire Drum Makers
Ndere culture Centre
Uganda national Museum
Buganda road craft village
Namasole Tomb
Wamala Tomb
Naggalabi Buddo Coronation site among others

May 2, 2020/by bwindigorilla

Lake Mutanda

Uganda

Lake Mutanda, formation of lake mutanda, Lake mutanda activities

Lake Mutanda is one of the most beautiful lakes in Uganda. Find out about the formation of lake mutanda, Lake mutanda activities

There are so many beautiful things in Uganda, a reason to why it is called the Pearl of Africa and Lake Mutanda is one of them. The lake is found in the southwestern part of Uganda surrounded by the numerous hills of the region. Everything about this lake is simply wondrous; its location, cool breeze, islands, the stunning reflection of the bright light and the calmness of the water.

Anyone that advises you to visit Lake Mutanda truly wants you to see one of the most scenic and beautiful lakes in Africa. It is dotted with a number of stunning islands, a backdrop of the Virunga volcanoes at a distance and many other hills surrounding the lake.

Lake Mutanda is located in the southern region of Uganda close to the habitats of the endangered mountain gorillas Bwindi impenetrable and Mgahinga national parks. A visit to Lake Mutanda is one of the things you ought not to miss out on your Uganda gorilla safari. There are a number of things you can do when you visit this beautiful lake and they include;

Canoeing at Lake Mutanda, it is done in dugout canoes which are sailed on the water by well experienced locals from the area. This activity offers an opportunity to tourist to have an experience that takes you back to the ancient times where these were the only means of transport on water.

Canoeing on Lake Mutanda exposes you to the magnificent isles all over the lake, lovely views of the Virunga volcanoes and hills in the region and different bird species on the islands. These canoes here are also used for transportation of people and goods between the mainland and the islands and they are also used for fishing on the lake. Another place where you can have an experience related to this is on Lake Bunyonyi which is also found in the same region.
Hiking, the far southwestern region is also known as the region of hills because of the numerous beautiful hills all over. Lake Mutanda has very many hills around it. A blend of these forms magnificent sites in the area. There are many trails on the hills that can take you through the most thrilling nature walk and hiking experiences in this place. You can take on the two days hike from Buhoma to Nkuringo which is combined with canoeing on Lake Mutanda.
Fishing is one of the most thrilling activities that will make your Lake Mutanda visit complete. You will move on the canoe with a local fisherman, through the beautiful islands to areas where they expect to get the fish. Deep the line into the water and try your luck, some tourists have been able to catch one and others didn’t and the trip still remains impressive because of the beauty and wild whispers all over the area.
Mountain biking, the place is hilly and you therefore require mountain bikes to manage this experience. The activity is adventurous, it takes you through trails in the area to different lovely areas and takes you closer to different hills where you’ll have clear views and perfect photos. If you do not have a mountain bike, you can rent it from Kisoro town.
Chilling at the lake, Lake Mutanda is the best place that will stress out the fatigue and exhausted mind after trekking for gorillas the whole morning or day in the hilly Bwindi forest. It has the best sites where you can sit, relax and have your mind rejuvenated. Enjoy the cool breeze, soothing sounds of the birds, scenic views as you sip a glass of wine and have a taste of the delicious fish from the lake.

Major and exciting activities to do in areas surrounding Lake Mutanda, that is Bwindi Impenetrable national park and Mgahinga national park include; Gorilla trekking, Batwa trail experience, Batwa visit and hiking the Virunga volcanoes.

Lake Mutanda is one of the most beautiful lakes in Uganda. Find out about the formation of lake mutanda, Lake mutanda activities

April 30, 2020/by bwindigorilla

Uganda Wildlife Authority

Uganda

Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is a statutory body that was established in 1996 to conserve wildlife in Uganda. The body is affiliated to the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities together with other institutions to promote and sustain tourism through protecting and conserving Uganda’s wildlife. It is a government body that was entrusted with all the wildlife in the county.

The main role of Uganda Wildlife Authority is to manage and conserve wildlife in and outside Uganda’s protected areas. It manages ten (10) national parks, twelve (12) wildlife reserves, thirteen (13) Wildlife sanctuaries and offers guidance to five (5) community wildlife management areas. The ten national parks of Uganda include Murchison falls national park, queen Elizabeth national park, bwindi impenetrable national park, Mgahinga national park, Kibale national park, Lake Mburo national park, Rwenzori national park, Semuliki national park, Kidepo national park and Mt. Elgon national park. The effort of Uganda wildlife authority has played a big role in today’s success of Uganda safaris. The highlight for most visits to Uganda is the wildlife that is exists today in plenty because of protection from Uganda Wildlife authority.

Roles of Uganda wildlife authority in the promotion of tourism in Uganda

What has Uganda Wildlife Authority done in the promotion of tourism in Uganda?

Uganda Wildlife Authority monitors and supervises the activities of the park. It recruits, trains and employs experienced people and supervises them to ensure that all the activities of the park run smoothly. There are different departments in UWA responsible for specific roles and all this leads to provision of the best services for tour operators and tourists.

Uganda wildlife authority sets and regulates prices for the activities in the park. A big percentage of this income goes back for conservation to sustain the wildlife and promote tourism tomorrow. For example, a gorilla trekking permit is quite higher in cost compared to other permits because gorillas are endangered and require higher levels of research and protection. The fee for lion tracking as well helps in research of these carnivores.

It promotes public participation in conservation of wildlife. This helps in jointly protecting the animals in the parks, encourage the locals from destroying vegetation and teach them how important the wildlife is to them and to the future generation. The authority promotes public participation in conservation through Community Conservation Programs which have improved conservation and also eradicates poverty.

Uganda Wildlife Authority diversifies activities at different destinations so that tourists get more things to do. For example introduction of lion tracking in Queen Elizabeth national park, the Batwa trail experience, hiking to the top of the falls in Murchison falls national park and accepting the establishment of Hot air balloon in Murchison national park. With all these additional activities besides wildlife, tourists encounter the best of their African safaris when they visit Uganda.

Uganda Wildlife authority is also responsible for marketing the wildlife destinations in Uganda. The authority is indeed marketing Uganda’s national parks, wildlife reserves and sanctuaries through on-line marketing including the website and social media, brochures and flyers among others.

Uganda wildlife authority is highly protecting the endangered, endemic and rare species of wildlife in Uganda so that they will remain there to attract several tourists. This has been done through providing wildlife policies, encouraging and supporting research about them and promoting the best management practices. However, all animals are protected with strict policies and laws.

In collaboration with RhinoFund Uganda, Uganda Wildlife authority restored rhinos in Uganda after many years of extinction and you can track them in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. You can do it as an independent activity or include it on your Murchison falls safari.

April 30, 2020/by bwindigorilla

Uganda Visa Cost

Uganda

Uganda Visa Cost – Anyone entering Uganda is required to present or obtain a Uganda visa before they are allowed to proceed beyond the entry points and borders. You can obtain it on arrival at Entebbe international airport or apply for it at the Uganda embassy or a trusted consulate in your country though this can be very tedious. You can as well apply for it online before departing from your home country by completing the e-Visa application form. The cost of a Uganda visa therefore depends on the method one uses to obtain it. All these methods have different prices, applying online can be convenient but you will still be asked to wait in the queue to get to the immigration office so that you are verified that you have the actual visa and also get your passport stamped.

Acquiring the Uganda visa at Entebbe international airport on arrival is the easiest and convenient because it doesn’t require a lot of hustle as well as much processes like it is when filling online forms.

Requirements for applying for Uganda e-Visa

Passport personal details scan
Last page of passport (if applicable)
Yellow fever vaccination card
Invitation letter (if applicable)
Applicant photo

Cost of a Uganda visa

When planning for your Uganda visa, get informed that there are two options; the uganda Tourist Visa and the East African Visa which cost different prices.

Single entry US$50 per person
Multiple entry visa 6-12 months US$100
East African tourist visa US$100

The East African visa is a single visa that allows you to access three countries Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda. It saves you from processing multiple visas to each country. You are reminded that the country through which you apply for the East African visa limits you to visit it first before you proceed to the other two countries. Therefore, when you apply for your visa through the Uganda authority, then you will visit Uganda then to Rwanda or Kenya.

Applying for a Uganda visa online requires you to pay an extra amountof USD 50 which is paid using a credit card.

April 30, 2020/by bwindigorilla

Tourism in Uganda : Guide to Visiting Uganda

Things to Do in Uganda: What to See when you visit Uganda

Top places and attractions in Uganda, Uganda sight seeing

Fort Portal

Iteso People and their culture

Historical background and culture of the Iteso People

The Economic set up of the Iteso

Marriage and Family

The Kingdom Of Tooro

Social and economic set up of the Batooro people

Libyan Relationship with the Kingdom

Some of the tourists attractions in Toro Kingdom include;

The Bagisu People

Bamasaba of eastern Uganda

History of the Bagishu people

The Political set up of the Bagisu

Circumcision Rituals

The Bagisu are highly superstitious people.

Girl’s part

After the circumcision

After Healing

Attractions in Bagisu Land include;

Bokora Coriddor Game Reserve

Wildlife in Bokora Wildlife reserve

Things to do at Bokora Wildlife reserve

Game drives

Birding

Visiting the Karamajong

Accommodation in Bokora wildlife reserve

Best time to visit Bokora wildlife reserve

Busoga Culture – Kingdom of Busoga

Attractions and historical sites in Busoga kingdom

Budhumbula Shrine and Palace

Bujjagali Falls

Buganda Culture

The Buganda Government

The economic activity of Buganda Kingdom

Tourist attractions in Buganda Kingdom

The Royal Mile

Nantawetwa Monument

The Kabaka’s palace-Twekobe

Bulange; The Buganda Parliament

Lake Mutanda, formation of lake mutanda, Lake mutanda activities

Roles of Uganda wildlife authority in the promotion of tourism in Uganda

Cost of a Uganda visa

Top Rated Tours

WIKI / IMPORTANT LINKS

Affiliation / Membership

Our Top Destinations

Contact Information