Uganda is a small country in East Africa. It shares its borders with Kenya, Tanzania, Sudan, Congo, and Rwanda. Apart from being having a small size, the country which is also referred to as the “Pearl of Africa” is abundant with numerous landmarks that have multitudes of tourists flocking to the country. Uganda began to take shape in 1914, as several territories and tribes were integrated into one, and in 1962, the country was granted independence. The first elections were held that same year, however, over the next decade, the wide range of ethnic groups and political differences in Uganda proved difficult to govern. Needless to say that Uganda has one of the most amazing landmarks in Africa. In case you are doubting the fact, check the following which are the 10 greatest landmarks on the map of Uganda and you will be convinced.
1. Ruwenzori/Rwenzori Mountain
Also known as the mountains of the moon, the Ruwenzori Mountains have always been among the most notable landmarks in Uganda. The colossal mountains consist of several ranges which cover a very wide area. The mountains greatly influence the good climate and weather that Uganda enjoys. Also, they support different types of flora and fauna.
2. Rwenzori National Park
Ruwenzori National Park is another landmark on the Uganda map. It is home to the mountain gorilla and other primates. Located in the beautiful Ruwenzori ranges, the locations provide protection to the endangered gorillas. Due to this, UNESCO has gazetted the park as a world heritage. Other than the mountain gorillas, there are many other animals and plant species that make the park a landmark.
3. Bwindi National Park
Uganda is well-known for its large population of primates. As a matter of fact, it prides itself in having half of the world’s concentration of gorillas and apes.These gentle giants can be found in Bwindi National park. The mountain gorilla which is an endangered species is found in good numbers at the park. The Park is also gazetted as 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 in the African continent. The lake is so massive that it covers three East African states namely Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Several activities take place in the water body. These include marine expedition, fishing, water sports and more.
5. Jinja
Jinja is the second largest town in Uganda. It comes second after Kampala, which is the Capital City. The town which lies along the shores of Lake Victoria is located about 80 km (50 miles) from Kampala. It holds great historical importance since it is the source of the Great River Nile. Jinja is famous for white-water rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking, ATV (All-terrain vehicles) excursions, mountain biking, hiking and much more.
6. Ngamba Island
Another site on the Uganda map is the Ngamba Island which is located in the Lake Victoria. It covers an area of about 40 hectares (100 acres). The location is a Sanctuary and Conservation Trust for Chimpanzees. The boardwalk is the main attraction as it gives visitors a close view of the animals. Also, it allows them to feed the animals.
7. Murchison Falls
The Murchison waterfall is found in the Murchison national park. Its water source is the great river Nile which spans many countries in Africa. It is a large waterfall that drops from a great height through a gorge that measures 20 feet. This has made it the most powerful waterfall in the world.
8. River Nile
Uganda takes pride in being the country where the Great Nile River originates from. 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 eco-system as well as agriculture in the different countries. The “Owen Falls” dam which generates hydroelectricity is located along the Nile River.
9. Kasumbi Tombs
The Kasumbi tombs were the burial sites of the kings and rulers of Uganda locally known as Kabakas. Over the years, the tombs grew in size thus becoming a popular attraction for both locals as well as tourists. The UNESCO has gazetted the Kasumbi tombs which are situated on the top of a hill near Kampala as a World Heritage site.
10. Mt. Margherita
Mt. Margherita is the largest mountain in Uganda. It stands at a height of about 16,761 feet or 5,109 metres. This makes it the third tallest mountain in Africa after Mt. Kilimanjaro (Tanzania) and Mt. Kenya (Kenya). It supports a rich ecosystem which comprises of animals, plants, birds, and much more.
There is no question that Uganda is indeed a top tourist attraction when it comes to great landmarks. Actually, the above list of 10 greatest landmarks on the map of Uganda only touches on the spots considered the best. However, there are quite a number of landmarks that are worthy of a visit when in the country.
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