Explore Uganda with an open mind and discover the Pearl of Africa
Here is how not to visit Uganda – and the Right Way to visit Uganda
How not to Visit Uganda! When visiting Uganda, it is crucial to avoid approaching the experience with preconceived notions or misconceptions shaped by what one may have read or heard about the Country.
As Aldous Huxley wisely stated, “To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.” Many individuals who arrive in Uganda carrying preconceived ideas often leave with a completely different perspective, realizing how mistaken they were about the Country.
There is a right way and a wrong way to visit Uganda. The wrong way involves merely skimming the surface, barely scratching the surface of what the Country has to offer. On the other hand, the right way is to immerse oneself fully in the experience. It means embracing the opportunity to explore Uganda and discover the true essence of the Pearl of Africa.
Fortunately, the vast majority of visitors to Uganda, around 99%, find themselves not only satisfied but also pleasantly surprised by their time in the Country. Uganda has a way of exceeding expectations, leaving visitors in awe of its natural beauty, diverse wildlife, warm hospitality, and rich cultural heritage.
Explore Uganda and discover the Pearl of Africa.
How not to Visit Uganda-Explore Uganda with an open mind
The wrong way to visit Uganda – an example is Katharine Hepburn!
How not to Visit Uganda-Explore Uganda with an open mind: Katharine Hepburn came to Africa to make “the African Queen” movie. She did not come on a Safari, and Katharine Hepburn did not abide by the “Know before you go” Safari Rule.
She did not thrive on the Chaos that awaited her. Unlike Humphrey Bogart and John Huston, Katharine Hepburn did not numb herself. She might have been spared from ongoing dysentery if she had taken some Scotch or Ugandan Waragi, and she would not have been frightened by snakes hanging in the pit latrines and other horrific experiences.
She wrote this in her book The Making of the African Queen, or How I Went to Africa with Bogart, Bacall, and Huston, and I almost lost my mind.
“The Country is like a great sponge—it finally absorbs you. Eventually, you will get malaria, or you will get dysentery. Whatever you do, if you don’t keep doing it, the jungle will grow over you. Black or white, you’ve got to fight it every minute of the day.”
The wrong way to visit Uganda: Katharine Hepburn came to Uganda uninformed and did not have a guide, as you would on a Safari with us. She had a problem with expectations and attitude and was not a role model when visiting Africa. One can be sure that she was never asked to be a “poster person” for tourism. If she had read the “What to avoid in Uganda page,” Things might have become more manageable for her.
Winston Churchill –Explore Uganda with an open mind. Discover the Pearl of Africa.
Winston Churchill – the right way to visit Uganda and Discover the Pearl of Africa
Winston Churchill visited Uganda in 1907. He was well prepared for the journey, knowing what to expect, and Uganda was beyond his expectations.
Like Katharine Hepburn, he wrote a book. Here is an excerpt from “My African Journey.”
“For magnificence, variety of form and color, for the profusion of brilliant life — bird, insect, reptile, beast — for vast scale — Uganda is true “the Pearl of Africa.”
The Kingdom of Uganda is a fairy tale. The scenery is different, the climate is different, and most of all, the people are unlike anything else in Africa. The message I bring back is to concentrate on Uganda.
From end to end, Uganda is a ‘beautiful garden’ where the people’s ‘staple food’ grows almost without labor. Does it not sound like a paradise on Earth? It is the Pearl of Africa.
Katharine Hepburn visited Uganda and nearly lost her mind. Winston Churchill seemed to have gained a new perspective on Africa. Unwittingly, he has become Uganda’s tourism industry’s poster boy by popularizing the “Pearl of Africa.”
Two Visitors to the same Country and two different views. Africa, you either love it or you don’t. Fortunately, most tend to be on the side of Winston Churchill.
Our Tips & Advice on How Not to Visit Uganda
1. Know about Uganda Before you Go!
Before embarking on your journey to Uganda, we highly recommend becoming well-informed about the Country. Arriving in Uganda without prior knowledge can leave you clueless and unprepared for what awaits you.
To enrich your visit to Uganda, we encourage you to gather information about the Country. Our website provides a wealth of resources and insights about Uganda that can help you familiarize yourself with its history, culture, and attractions. The Uganda Bradt Guide is also an excellent resource, particularly for backpackers, offering comprehensive information about the Country.
Understanding Uganda’s history and culture can enhance your overall experience. Watching the movie “Queen of Katwe” can positively depict
Uganda and showcase an ongoing success story. Additionally, reading Winston Churchill’s “My African Journey” can offer valuable insights into his discoveries in Uganda during his 1907 visit, including his role in popularizing the “Pearl of Africa.”
If you plan to go on a safari, knowing what you need is essential, particularly for activities like gorilla trekking. Being well-prepared and informed can make your experience even more rewarding. Avoid arriving without a clue by taking the time to gather knowledge beforehand. Knowing before you go will significantly enhance your visit to Uganda.
Let us know what you need if you are going on a safari. That especially applies to Gorilla Trekking, and it is more enriching to see before you go. Do not arrive without a clue, and know before you go. Read our Travelers Information about Uganda.
2. Do not Visit Uganda superficially – Immerse yourself:
Immersing yourself in the experience is critical when visiting Uganda. Africa, particularly Uganda, is like the ancient River Nile. You can’t simply dip your toes into it and claim you’ve swam in its waters. While you don’t need to go as extreme as bungee jumping into the Nile, thoughtful planning is essential, especially for a safari.
Even influential figures like President George W. Bush and President Clinton, who visited Uganda briefly, missed out on genuinely exploring the Country. They were only allowed for official meetings and brief encounters in their limited time. To truly appreciate Uganda, you need to go beyond superficial experiences.
Think of Uganda as an exquisite cup of Arabica coffee grown in the terraced hills of Southwest Uganda near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Before taking that first sip, savor the aroma, appreciate the flavor, and relish the experience. Uganda is not like a rushed instant coffee; it’s more like dancing without music.
Uganda is not an instant destination. The Pearl of Africa offers an experience best enjoyed through immersion. A three-day gorilla trek, while remarkable, only scratches the surface. To truly appreciate Uganda and authentic Africa, take the time to explore, discover, and embrace everything this beautiful Country has to offer. Immerse yourself in the culture, wildlife, landscapes, and people to make the most of your visit.
3. Do not come to Uganda with a sense of Western Superiority but be willing to learn: 
When visiting Uganda, it is crucial to approach the experience with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Shed any sense of Western superiority and embrace the opportunity to gain new knowledge and insights.
Like much of Sub-Saharan Africa, Uganda values relationships and a relational approach to life. Travelers can have the time of their lives in Uganda by being open to learning new or ancient ways. Those who approach their journey humbly and willing to listen will find their time in Africa genuinely enriching.
As Gustave Flaubert wisely stated, travel humbles us and makes us realize the smallness of our place in the world. Embrace this perspective and be receptive to the wisdom and experiences that Uganda has to offer.
Bill and Melinda Gates demonstrated a great example of this attitude during their visit to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. They sat on a humble mat, commonly used in homes of modest means in Uganda, and listened to the local community.
Remember, your inner attitude significantly determines the quality and richness of your African experience in Uganda. Approach the journey with respect, curiosity, and a genuine desire to learn from the people and the culture.
It’s worth noting that the Swahili word “safari” still holds its meaning today. For Swahili speakers, it signifies going on a journey to see relatives, emphasizing the importance of connections and relationships in African culture.
Explore Uganda and discover the Pearl of Africa.
How not to Visit Uganda-Explore Uganda and discover the Pearl of Africa: Take a safari with us and explore Uganda to uncover and discover the hidden gem, the Pearl of Africa.
In Angelique Kidjo’s captivating song “Welcome to My House,” she beautifully expresses the essence of Africa’s spirit: “My house is your house.” This sentiment embodies the welcoming nature of the continent, where you are invited to stay, indulge in delicious meals, engage in heartfelt conversations, and experience genuine human connection.
Uganda offers far more than just safaris, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery. It is a land filled with remarkable people and incredible stories to share. From personal experience, I have discovered the true essence of Uganda by immersing myself in the company of its people. Sharing a meal of succulent beef (Nyama Choma), enjoying a piece of chicken, and engaging in conversations have allowed me to forge lasting friendships and delve into Uganda’s authentic African culture within its borders.
When visiting Africa’s Pearl, it is essential not to limit your experience solely to primates and wildlife. Open
yourself up to learning about the vibrant cultures, traditions, and histories that shape Uganda. By embracing this approach, you will enrich your time in Uganda and gain a deeper understanding of its essence.
Let us not forget the wrong way to visit Africa and its precious gem, Uganda. It is crucial not to leave your common sense behind when you embark on this journey. Come genuinely eager to learn about the magnificent primates, wildlife, people, and their diverse cultures. Immersing yourself in Uganda’s vibrant tapestry will reward you with a transformative experience.
Recently, we had the pleasure of witnessing 17 women hiking the Nile Safari, following in the footsteps of Winston Churchill. Among them was a woman whose husband had concerns about her journey. However, as she ventured through Uganda and trekked with the gorillas, she realized that Uganda was nothing like her husband had imagined. It was a revelation that shattered preconceived notions and allowed her to embrace the true beauty of the Country.
So, venture into Uganda with an open mind, a thirst for knowledge, and a desire to connect with its people. Discover the real Africa, its Pearl Uganda, and let its essence leave an indelible mark on your heart.
