Uganda - Quick Facts and Information

 

The Republic of Uganda is a land locked country in the East African region. It is bordered by Sudan in the North, Democratic Republic of Congo in the West, Kenya in the East, and Rwanda and Tanzania to the South. Head of state: His excellency,Yoweri.Kaguta.museveni.

Area: 241,000 sq. km (of which 44,000 sq. km. are covered by freshwater bodies)
Population: 22.1 million; Density 105/sq. km.
Official Language: English
Religion: 89% Christian, 11% Muslim
Time Zone: GMT +3
Largest Cities: Kampala 770,000 ; Jinja 65,000; Mbale 54,000; Masaka 50,000
Currency: Uganda Shillings
Telephone code:+256
Weights & measures:Kilograms

 

Climate

Despite its proximity to the equator, much of Uganda feels anything but tropical, and many people are not prepared for how chilly it can be. Some of the tour is at elevations over 5,000 feet and highland days can be quite cool if there is cloud cover. One camp is at 8,000 feet and it can get quite cold here. However, when the sun shines, it can conversely get very hot. Humidity is low. Rain is possible almost anywhere but we will probably only experience it in the highland areas and even then it should not be prolonged. A lightweight sweater should be adequate for some of the cool evenings and a lightweight jacket will be useful for early mornings.

Transport in Uganda

Entebbe international airport is the main gateway to Uganda; one only has to book with the variety of airline companies that operate in the country with at least three flights to and fro. These include; British Airways, Emirates Airlines, South African Airways, Gulf Air and so many others. The road network especially on the main routes has been improved thus finding your way within Uganda is easy. To cover short distances, one can board a "matatu"(minibus) for a small fee or opt for a "bodaboda"(moped), which charges a slightly higher fee. Car hire services are also provided in the major towns and the capital city. When visiting tourist sights, a 4wd vehicle is recommended. Drivers may be an asset in case Of a breakdown. There are a number of airstrips scattered around the country and a range of charter companies to choose from which provide internal flights. To get to the islands like Ngamba Island, small engine powered boats are available for a small fee or you may contact your tour operator. However, while in the Uganda, you can move around in a bus,a car,motorcylce ,use water or air.

 

Communication in Uganda

Kampala has the best international communication and Kigali but very poor network system in up-country areas. The mobile telephone network is good and increasing at a high rate. Most European or American mobile phones with a roaming agreement work in Uganda and Rwanda. Local SIM cards can also be purchased in many outlets all over the country (Uganda) these include;-MTN SIM cards, UTL, WARID and CELTEL. Internet facilities are available in Kampala and Kigali and in most major towns in Uganda and Rwanda although the quality and speed of the connection varies. We do provide our guides with Air time to keep communicating while on safari and for those with no Mobile phones we provide office mobile phones to them and return them after every safari.

 

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS IN UGANDA
1st January New Year's Day
26th January Liberation Day
8th March International Women's Day
1st May Labour Day
3rd June Martyrs Day
9th October Independence Day
25th December Christmas Day
26th December Boxing Day
Moveable Holidays Good Friday and Easter Monday
Variable Islamic holidays