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:
To truly experience Uganda, you must engage deeply with its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse wildlife. Often called the Pearl of Africa, Uganda invites you to explore its depths rather than skim the surface. While thrilling activities, like bungee jumping into the Nile, may tempt you, thoughtful planning is essential, especially for safaris.
Many influential visitors, including Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton, only scratched the surface during their brief trips, engaging mainly in official meetings and missing the heart of Uganda. To fully appreciate its offerings, you need to move beyond superficial encounters.
Think of Uganda as a fine cup of Arabica coffee from the terraced hills near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The coffee’s richness reflects the country’s essence, inviting you to savor its aroma and flavor rather than rush like instant coffee. Uganda requires time and presence; a few days of trekking gorillas offers only a glimpse of its wonders.
From exploring the precious wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park to enjoying a serene boat ride on Lake Victoria, Uganda is filled with opportunities for deeper connection. Engage with local communities, visit vibrant markets, and immerse yourself in cultural experiences to truly understand the heart of this nation.
In summary, invest time in understanding its culture, landscapes, and people to make the most of your visit to Uganda. This immersion will reveal the true treasures of this remarkable country and create lasting memories.
3. Do not come to Uganda with a sense of Western Superiority but be willing to learn: 
When visiting Uganda, it is vital to approach your experience with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Let go of any notions of Western superiority, as this can hinder your appreciation of Uganda’s rich cultures and traditions.
Uganda, like many Sub-Saharan African nations, emphasizes the importance of relationships and community. Travelers can have deeply enriching experiences by valuing these connections and approaching their journey with humility and a readiness to listen. Engaging with the local people and their customs can lead to profound insights.
As Gustave Flaubert wisely noted, travel humbles us and helps us understand our small place in the world. Embracing this outlook will make you more receptive to the wisdom Uganda has to offer.
Bill and Melinda Gates’ visit (when they were married) to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a compelling example of this attitude. They chose to sit on a simple mat, commonly found in local homes, demonstrating their respect for the community and its culture.
Your attitude significantly influences the quality of your experience in Uganda, so approach it with respect, curiosity, and a desire to learn. Additionally, the Swahili word “safari,” meaning “journey,” emphasizes the importance of connections, reflecting the deep social bonds that characterize Ugandan culture. Every encounter has the potential to enhance your understanding and appreciation of this incredible country.
Explore Uganda and discover the Pearl of Africa.
How Not to Visit Uganda: A Journey Through the Pearl of Africa: Visiting Uganda is not just a trip; it’s an opportunity to explore the Pearl of Africa in all its richness. Join a safari to uncover this remarkable country, often considered one of Africa’s hidden gems.
In Angelique Kidjo’s song “Welcome to My House,” she beautifully expresses Africa’s welcoming spirit with the phrase, “My house is your house.” This captures the warmth of the continent, where visitors are embraced as family. In Uganda, you can enjoy traditional meals, engage in meaningful conversations, and experience the genuine connections that make the country unique.
Beyond its stunning wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, Uganda boasts diverse cultures and incredible stories. From my experiences, I found that the heart of Uganda lies in its people. Sharing meals like Nyama Choma (grilled beef) and engaging with locals has helped me forge lasting friendships and gain a deeper appreciation for authentic African culture.
When you visit Uganda, don’t just focus on primates and wildlife. Take time to learn about the vibrant cultures, traditions, and histories that make up the nation. Museums, festivals, and local performances can enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the country.
It’s essential to approach your visit thoughtfully. Bring your common sense, an open heart, and a genuine eagerness to learn. Immerse yourself in Uganda’s vibrancy—its music, dance, and traditions—to fully embrace its beauty.
Recently, I witnessed a remarkable group of 17 women hiking the Nile Safari. One participant, whose husband had concerns about her journey, discovered that Uganda was far from what he imagined. This realization opened her eyes to the country’s stunning landscapes and welcoming people.
