World Tourism Day was established on this day in 1980 to create awareness on how tourism affects social-cultural, political, and economic values globally and the role of tourism within the international community.
Uganda has also joined the rest of the world to celebrate World Tourism Day 2021 with the theme, ‘Tourism for inclusive growth.’
The latest available data from the country’s statistics office show Uganda earned $2 billion from tourism activities in 2017, up from $1.7 billion the previous year.
As Matooke Republic, we have decided to commemorate this day by bringing you some of the country’s best tourism destinations.
Murchison Falls National Park
We had to put this on top because well, of course, it is one of the top tourist destinations in Uganda, but also because we believe you would love to see the falls before a reportedly planned dam is constructed upon it. The dam is not all there is. The park boasts of a variety of wildlife like lions, elephants, giraffes, among others. The accommodation should be the last thing to worry about because there are numerous safari lodges in and around the park with great service and wonderful views of The Great Nile.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Don’t be misled by the name, this national park is penetrable, through rough paths, so you will be able to see what this World Heritage Site is known for; Mountain Gorillas. Other activities you can do include bird watching because this forest is home to thousands of bird species. You’ll need to be careful though not to step on caterpillars. You don’t want to endanger our butterflies.
Rwenzori Mountains National Park
Fancy mountain climbing much? I know you do. Hydrate on the base before we embark on the journey to the top, literally. With the highest peak rising up to 5,109 meters, getting to the snow-covered peak will be the icing on the top of a truly rewarding experience. You will need to pack some sweaters and jackets; the Rwenzori area is very cold.
Source of the Nile
The source of the longest river in the world has got to be a special place to visit. More special even now that you can stop on the newly constructed Jinja Nile Bridge to take selfies you will share later on Instagram. For those with brave hearts, white water rafting is something you will enjoy on the Great Nile, and dine on fresh fish afterward.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
The second biggest and the most visited national park in Uganda, this beauty boasts rich vegetation and a conducive environment for most wild animals. Here, you will find chimpanzees, elephants, antelopes, buffalos, among others; and over 600 bird species. Several crater lakes are also found here, with lakes Edward and the oil-rich Albert in the vicinity.
Sipi Falls
The Sipi Falls area is the starting point for many hikes up Mt. Elgon. Hikes around the falls offer stunning views of the Karamoja plains, Lake Kyoga, and the slopes of Mt. Elgon.
There are a number of lodges and backpackers/campsites in the area offering a range of accommodation for all budgets. With a cooler climate than most of the country, Sipi Falls is a nice place to unwind, relax and literally chill out away from the hustle and bustle of the towns and cities.