uganda
The Pearl of Africa
To get a comprehensive feel of what Africa has to offer, plan a trip to Uganda. Most countries across the continent are known for a specific niche. Could be the Big Five, gorilla safaris, beautiful beaches, sprawling waterfalls, sky-piercing mountains, or sun-kissed rivers and lakes. Uganda offers all the above and so much more.
Christened as the Pearl of Africa, Uganda’s beautiful diversity has turned it into such a revered destination. Yet, you’ll still get an intimate feeling while seeing the hidden gems that make this country the ultimate paradise. Whether you’re setting off for a gorilla safari, sailing on the Nile, or searching for the Big Five in the wild, Uganda is an indelible experience that you’ll never forget.
Uganda’s capital, Kampala, offers an escape from the humdrum experience many are used to. Simply, getting from point A to B on a boda boda (motorcycle taxi) is an adventure not many ever experience in their lifetime. Here’s more detailed information on Uganda;
Uganda’s capital, Kampala, offers an escape from the humdrum experience many are used to. Simply, getting from point A to B on a boda boda (motorcycle taxi) is an adventure not many ever experience in their lifetime. Here’s more detailed information on Uganda;
History of Uganda
Evidence of human activity in Uganda dates back at least 50,000 years. Acheulean stone tools recovered from around Lake Victoria indicate the presence of early humans. Over millennia, cultures and languages evolved as people migrated and intermingled.
By the mid-19th century, the region that would become Uganda was home to a diversity of languages and cultures. Nilotic and Sudanic languages dominated the north, while Bantu-speaking peoples occupied the central, western, and southern areas.
By the mid-19th century, the region that would become Uganda was home to a diversity of languages and cultures. Nilotic and Sudanic languages dominated the north, while Bantu-speaking peoples occupied the central, western, and southern areas.
Swahili-speaking traders migrated from the east coast in the 1840s, bringing with them people in slavery and ivory.
The robust slave trade business had seen other regions like Acholiland ravaged by slavers from Egypt and Sudan. Mutesa I (king of Buganda) welcomed European explorers like John Hanning Speke in 1862 and later Henry Morton Stanley in 1875, seeking alliances against these slavers.
His miscalculation saw the arrival of Christian missionaries, influencing local politics despite Mutesa I’s attempts to limit them. His successor, Mwanga, faced conflicts with these new influences and was deposed in 1888. By the 1890s, the British had established control over Buganda, through the Imperial British East Africa Company. And by 1914, the entire country was under British control.
Significant strides towards self-governance began in 1954 with an increased African council representation. Political parties emerged in the late 1950s with a focus on self-government. After deliberations in London, Uganda attained complete internal self-government in March 1962, with Muganda Benedicto Kiwanuka served as the country’s first prime minister. Milton Obote, a Lango, later removed Kiwanuka from authority by voting.
Uganda gained independence on October 9, 1962, but ethnic differences set the stage for coups and turbulence that reigned for the next three decades.
The robust slave trade business had seen other regions like Acholiland ravaged by slavers from Egypt and Sudan. Mutesa I (king of Buganda) welcomed European explorers like John Hanning Speke in 1862 and later Henry Morton Stanley in 1875, seeking alliances against these slavers.
His miscalculation saw the arrival of Christian missionaries, influencing local politics despite Mutesa I’s attempts to limit them. His successor, Mwanga, faced conflicts with these new influences and was deposed in 1888. By the 1890s, the British had established control over Buganda, through the Imperial British East Africa Company. And by 1914, the entire country was under British control.
Significant strides towards self-governance began in 1954 with an increased African council representation. Political parties emerged in the late 1950s with a focus on self-government. After deliberations in London, Uganda attained complete internal self-government in March 1962, with Muganda Benedicto Kiwanuka served as the country’s first prime minister. Milton Obote, a Lango, later removed Kiwanuka from authority by voting.
Uganda gained independence on October 9, 1962, but ethnic differences set the stage for coups and turbulence that reigned for the next three decades.
Capital of Uganda
Kampala is the capital of Uganda. The city effortlessly blends chaos with charm. The streets bustle with energy, from the colorful markets teeming with local crafts to the lively sounds of boda bodas zipping through traffic. Kampala’s nightlife is equally exhilarating, with an array of bars, restaurants, and clubs that promise an unforgettable experience.
Languages in Uganda
Uganda is a multilingual country with over 70 languages spoken. English is the official language of Uganda. English dominates the educational system, business, and political landscape. In Kampala, Luganda is the most spoken language, followed by English. The third most spoken language is Swahili.
Currency in Uganda
The Uganda Shilling (UGX or Ush) is the official currency of Uganda. Until 2013, the UGX was subdivided into cents. The rampant inflation forced the country to ditch cents. Currently, $1 equates to around 3600 UGX. Most local stores, restaurants, and service operators like taxis transact in UGX. However, a select few high-end hotels also accept USD for transactions.
itinerary
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport
Meet our Discover ME Representative
Discover ME Partner Driver will pick you and drive you to the Hotel
Discover ME will host our daily group dinner at the Hotel
Experience feeding Animals and seeing different types of Animals in Uganda.
After Breakfast at the Hotel-we will visit Uganda Wildlife Center.
Visit one of the local Community’s called Ewafe Cultural Village, locally translated as "Our home". You will have a great day sharing with locals on different cultural activities. You will be warmly welcomed with Kiganda local dance!! briefing on the site then start the activities which are aligned according to the daily activities of the local people. We will have lunch enjoying the local food we will have cooked by ourselves with the guidance of the local women.
Visit the royal palace of the largest Kingdom in Uganda, that is the Buganda Kingdom. This is the royal home for the Kababa who the cultural leader of the Baganda people and is also home of the offices for the Buganda Kingdom. After the palace visit, we drive back to the city center visiting some fresh fruit markets as we get to the restaurant for our lunch. After lunch, we will drive to Uganda Museum the great historical center of Uganda.
Immerse yourself further into Kampala's culture with visits to local communities and cultural centers. We will visit craft markets where you can purchase locally made handicrafts and souvenirs. The day is expected to offer a deeper understanding of Uganda's diverse cultural tapestry and the chance to interact closely with its people. After lunch in the evening, we visit Ndere Cultural Center, known for its vibrant performances showcasing traditional music, dance, and storytelling from various Ugandan tribes. There you will Engage in interactive cultural experiences such as learning traditional dances or trying local cuisines.
Discover ME Partner driver will be ready to drive you to the Airport-please be on time or you will have to make personal arrangements for your airport transportation.
