Uganda

Gift of Africa – Uganda

Misty forests with lush vegetation, mountains often covered with snow and some of the best savannas in Africa – Uganda is alluring. With a haunting past of dictatorship and military action, Uganda has emerged as a popular travel destination in Africa.

http://www.sendacow.org.uk/lessonsfromafrica/resources/christmas-meal-uganda – Image 01 (Luwombo)

Starting in Kampala, eat your way through Ugandan cuisine. Ugandan food is heavily influenced by African, European and Indian tastes. A common dish that you can find in Uganda is ugali (maize mass) as well as in other East African countries. Luwombo is popular with locals due to its different variations, it’s a stew of either chicken, beef, mushrooms or fish that is steamed in banana leaves. You can also find samosas, chapatti and curries that highlight Indian influences. A delicious snack that you can find from most vendors in Kampala is the mugati naamaggi of Arab origin, a thin pancake filled with raw egg and minced meat that is folded tightly and then fried. You will find more Indian restaurants in Kampala than African, but Haandi Kampala, which has a great menu with different tastes.

http://saharanvibe.blogspot.co.za/2009/06/busuuti-gomesi-bugandan-identity.html – Image 02 (Gomesi or busuuti)

And while you find yourself tasting the best that Kampala can offer, you might as well do some shopping. You will find yourself attracted to the beautiful gomesi or busuuti that Ugandan women wear. A bright long dress, often with a square neckline and made from cotton or silk. Although people living in cities have taken to more western styles, you can still find the occasional local woman wearing a gomesi. Traditional attire for men is the kanzu, an ankle length robe like the thawb in Arab countries.

http://www.gorillasafaritour.com/ – Image 03 (Gorilla trekking)

A trip to Uganda without admiring its gorillas would be fruitless. Spotting gorillas in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, eight hours away from Kampala is quite a sight. And a sight you will never forget, these gentle giants are a good contrast against the mist and greenery surrounding them. While the entrance fees are rather costly, you will get a guided trek and the funds do go towards conservation of the gorillas. You cannot enter the park without a ranger. Rangers will educate you beforehand on how to approach the animals as well as advise you on safety precautions. Consider staying overnight in a lodge around the park as it is a long drive back to Kampala.

http://ordinarylife-mk.blogspot.co.za/2013/11/rafting-ugandas-white-nile-class-v.html – Image 04 (White river rafting)

Thrill-seeking travellers will be delighted to try the white river rafting in Jinja. East of Kampala lies this sleepy town that is an adventurer’s dream. With the source of the Nile river flowing, you can kayak or plunge through rapids. There are a few resorts around the river that offer these activities. You will learn how to navigate the rapids and all the safety information you require. As you paddle away through the excitement, a guide will accompany you through the rapids. High adrenalin and a worthwhile experience while in Uganda. Stay the night and listen to the rushing river.

Uganda is a captivating country. Misty mountains, giants in the forest and a smile on every Ugandan. There are many experience Uganda will offer you, take them and enjoy. Say Asante you leave for a gift you will never forget.