On the 9th of October 1962 Uganda gained its independence after 70 years of being a British colony. Currently, Uganda’s total population stands at 37.5 million people. For over the past two decades, Uganda has experienced sustained economic growth as a result of the stable and secure political atmosphere that has existed for over thirty years under the multiparty democratic governance. Since tourism plays an important part in our economic development, our government has developed a 10 year tourism master plan and a 5 year sector Development Plan to guide the implementation of critical activities to drive tourism growth in the country.

Uganda has a very strong cultural heritage. Many regions in Uganda have kingdoms including Buganda, Busoga, Bunyoro and Toro. Ugandans are remarkably hospitable and hail from a diversity of rich cultures and life styles, each tribe having its own traditional dance. The country is blessed with 60 ethnic groups, 41 existing languages and only three are mentioned in debates as official language: Luganda, Swahili and English. Uganda’s Currency is Ugandan shilling (UGX) but also Dollars, pounds, Japanese yen, South African Rands, Chinese Yuan and Euros are accepted.

Uganda is predominantly Christian. One-third of the population is Roman Catholic, one-third is Protestant, 16 percent is Muslim and 18 percent believe in local religion.

Uganda’s weather conditions are ideal, ranging from the warmth of the lowland areas to the coolness of the highlands in the South West Kigezi. For the most part of the year Uganda is sunny with temperatures rarely rising above 29 degrees and the average temperature of about 26 degrees C. Generally, the temperature in Uganda comprises of a maximum of 18-31 degrees and minimum of 15-23 degrees depending on the part of the country.

The Equator runs through the country though the average altitude of 1000m which provides some relief from heat and humidity. Wet seasons are March –May & October-November; dry seasons are December to February & June to August. Therefore we advise against travelling during the rainy months as getting around can be difficult. The north is wet from April to October but it is largely off the tourist track. The rainfall regime allows two planting and harvesting seasons a year in most parts of the country, without the use of irrigation. You can squeeze in some time for a Ugandan farm tour, they are enlightening.

Ugandan cuisine consists of traditional and modern cooking styles, practices, foods and dishes, comprising of English, Arab, Asian and especially Indian influences. Most tribes have their own specialty dish or delicacy. Many dishes include vegetables and fruit, Tea and coffee are popular beverages. Soft drinks Like Coca-cola, Pepsi, Fanta, as well as traditional and Western beers are widely available. Fermented banana wine is popular, as is Waragi (distilled spirits).

Ugandans are known to be very friendly, gracious, and forgiving. As a destination in 2012 it was selected by lonely plan as the best tourist Destination. It was stated that nearly 1 million tourists across the world visit Uganda every year.
Environmental fact
Uganda is a tree loving nation. So much that for every one tree cut, 3 trees are planted as a replacement.
Facts about Uganda
Location: East Africa | Capital: Kampala | Population: 34.9 million (2014, Census) | Time: GMT/UTC +3 | Currency: Uganda shilling (UGX) | Government: Presidential Republic | Official Language(s): English, Swahili | Calling code: +256