Welcome to Uganda!

The Republic of Uganda's name has been derived from the Kingdom of Bugunda, which used to include a section of today's south Uganda including the capital city of Kampala. This landlocked East African nation is bordered by Kenya on the east, the Democratic Republic of Congo on the west, Sudan on the north, Tanzania on the south, and Rwanda on the southwest. Take a look at our Uganda map to get your bearings and choose a hotel in Uganda based on its location. Lake Victoria, which is bordered by Tanzania and Kenya as well, covers a large part of southern Uganda. Joining one or more Uganda tours is a rewarding way to explore this beautiful country; exploring the many things to see and do in Uganda.

Unfortunately the national parks of Uganda are not as frequently visited as those in nearby Tanzania and Kenya. The reality is that Uganda's capital city, Kampala, is far safer and friendlier than most cities in the continent. Most Uganda hotels are located in Kampala. Winston Churchill visited Uganda in 1907 and rightfully called it the ‘Pearl of Africa'.

Uganda offers its rich tapestry of natural wonders to nature lovers as well as experts such as botanists, lepidopterists and ornithologists. Every visit to Uganda is sure to bring forth something new. About 463 species of birds have been reportedly sighted in Uganda, with more being added to the list every year. The large number includes both indigenous and migratory birds that are attracted by the wide variety of habitats available in the country. One of the world's most important migratory routes includes the Great Rift Valley. The abundant food supplies and warmer climes offered by the valley attract a large number of European birds. Shore and water birds can both be easily spotted around the wetlands that surround Uganda's lakes. The Rift Valley swamps and the Lake George wetlands, which are protected under the Ramsar Convention, find special favour among these birds. The best place to spot the magnificent eagles and other birds of prey is the alpine and highland regions. Taking a Uganda tour to these regions is one of the easiest ways to reach them. Swarms of beautiful butterflies and a large variety of woodland birds can be spotted in the forest areas while vultures and the little sunbirds crowd the broad grasslands. Join a bird watching tour in Uganda to get a glimpse of some of the rarest and most magnificent members of the avian family.

Visitors must however remember that safety is of utmost importance at all times. North and northeast Uganda are generally better left unexplored because of the violence that is known to occur frequently, and also because of the Lord's Resistance Army, which is active in the region and is known to carry out acts of violence such as kidnappings. However, all of Uganda is not dangerous and if ample safety measures are taken, a trip to Uganda can be a delightful experience.

For many people, the name Uganda is synonymous with Idi Amin. However, Uganda is free of Idi Amin who died in 2003 and Uganda is far different from what it was during his regime. The political climate of the country is largely stable and visitors are welcomed warmly. People have overcome the hard times and are hospitable towards all. ‘Hello Mzungu' is a greeting you will soon get used to while exploring Uganda. Ugandans are a truly wonderful community of people.

Visitors to Uganda will be delighted by the many treasures just waiting to be discovered and adventures to be had in every corner of Uganda. To ensure you get the right Uganda hotels in each city and town to best complement your needs, take a look at our interactive Uganda map and Uganda accommodation guide. You will also find some of the many fabulous Uganda attractions listed on the map. While you are travelling the magical continent of Africa you should explore other great African destinations like Mauritius, Tanzania, Kenya, Madagascar, and South Africa.