Uganda is a small country in East Africa. It borders with Kenya, Tanzania, Sudan, Congo and Rwanda. Apart from its small size, the country, which is also called the “Pearl of Africa”, is rich in numerous attractions that attract a large number of tourists. Uganda took shape in 1914 when several territories and tribes were united into one and the country gained independence in 1962. The first elections took place in the same year. Over the next decade, however, Uganda’s numerous ethnic groups and political differences proved difficult to govern. Of course Uganda has one of the most impressive landmarks in Africa. If you doubt the fact, check the following 10 sights on Uganda map and you will be convinced.
1. Ruwenzori / Rwenzori Mountain
Also known as the Mountains of the Moon, the Rwenzori Mountains have always been one of Uganda’s most recognizable landmarks. The colossal mountains consist of several ranges covering a very wide area. The mountains have a great influence on the good climate and weather in Uganda. They also support different types of flora and fauna.
2. Rwenzori National Park
Rwenzori National Park is another landmark of Uganda map. The mountain gorilla and other primates live here. The sites are in the beautiful Rwenzori Mountains and provide shelter for the endangered gorillas. For this reason, UNESCO has declared the park a World Heritage Site. Besides the mountain gorillas, there are many other animal and plant species that make the park a landmark.
3. Bwindi National Park
Uganda is known for its large population of primates. In fact, it prides itself on having half the world’s concentration of gorillas and monkeys. These gentle giants are found in Bwindi National Park. The endangered mountain gorilla can be found in large numbers in the park. The park has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
4. Lake Victoria
Lake Victoria is the second largest freshwater lake in the entire world. It is also the largest lake on the African continent. The lake is so vast that it covers three East African states namely Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Various activities take place in the water. These include naval expedition, fishing, water sports and more.
5. Jinja
Jinja is the second largest city in Uganda. It comes second to Kampala, the capital. The city on the shores of Lake Victoria is about 80 km from Kampala. It has great historical importance as it is the source of the Great Nile. Jinja is famous for white water rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking, 4×4 excursions, mountain biking, hiking and much more.
6. Ngamba Island
Another spot on the Uganda map is Ngamba Island which is located in Lake Victoria. It covers an area of about 40 hectares. The site is a sanctuary and sanctuary for chimpanzees. The boardwalk is the main attraction as it allows visitors a close look at the animals. It also allows them to feed the animals.
7. Murchison Falls
Murchison Falls is located in Murchison National Park. Its source of water is the great Nile, which spans many African countries. It is a large waterfall falling from a great height through a 20 foot canyon. This has made it the most powerful waterfall in the world.
8. Nile
Uganda prides itself on being the country where the Great Nile originated. The Nile is the longest river in the world. It flows through several countries such as Uganda, Sudan and Egypt. The river supports a dynamic ecosystem as well as agriculture in the different countries. The dam “Owen Falls”, which generates electricity from hydroelectric power, is located on the Nile.
9. Kasumbi Tombs
The Kasumbi Tombs were the burial sites of the kings and rulers of Uganda known locally as Kabakas. Over the years, the tombs grew and became a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. UNESCO has declared the Kasumbi Tombs, located on a hill near Kampala, as a World Heritage Site.
10. Mt Margherita
Mt. Margherita is the highest mountain in Uganda. It stands at an elevation of approximately 16,761 feet or 5,109 meters. This makes it the third highest mountain in Africa after Mt. Kilimanjaro (Tanzania) and Mt. Kenya (Kenya). It supports a rich ecosystem made up of animals, plants, birds and more.
There is no question that Uganda is actually one of the top tourist spots when it comes to great sightseeing. Actually, the above list of 10 biggest attractions on the map of Uganda only touches on the places are considered the best. However, there are quite a number of attractions worth visiting while in the country.
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