The Uganda budget makes cultural safaris more costly

Many people especially tour operators expected the minister of Finance this time to read a budget that favors the tourism sector but on their surprise,more taxes were introduced in the sector.This according to the operators will affect the tourism industry as visitors will be discouraged by the increase in the cost of a Uganda safari including cultural safaris.

Lat week a budget for the next financial year was read to the public and 18% VAT on accommodation facilities where visitors stay was a newly introduced tax.Another tax which will affect the sector is the tax on the various sites including the cultural sites.These two taxes will affect the industry negatively because visitors intending to visit this East African country will be discouraged due to the increased costs.In fact a cultural visit to some of the major sites in Uganda is going to become more expensive to the visitors.The old itineraries you are used to are now going to be modified to include some element of tax.

Uganda is one of the leading tourism destinations in Africa and culture is one of the special attributes that have been attracting people from different parts of the word.However,there is fear that the number of visitors who visit this "pearl of Africa" annually will reduce as a result of the increased taxes.This is the reason why different tour operators have come out to ask the government to reduce these taxes.The government argues that its finding ways of raising more revenue forgetting that discouraging tourists from visiting the country will in a long run lead to a reduction in the revenue. Tourism industry in Uganda is the leading revenue-generating sector and by increasing taxes on the various sites and accommodation,income received from the visitors will reduce.

Apart from culture,visitors come to this country to participate in other adventurous activities like gorilla trekking,nature walks,game drives,hiking,bird watching,kayaking,chimpanzee tracking
,boat rides and many more

4 days cultural safaris Uganda

In these 4 days safari,you will visit one of the leading cultural sites in Uganda like Namugongo Pilgrimage site, Kabaka's Lake and Tororo Rock painting site.

Brief itinerary

Day 1:Namugongo and Kabaka's Lake

Day 2:Transfer to Tororo and village tours

Day 3:cultural walk and Tororo rock painting

Day 4:Transfer back to Kampala

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1:Namugongo and Kabaka's Lake

 Wake up early and have a cup of tea before meeting our qualified guide who will brief you about the tour.Our experienced driver will drive you to Kabaka's Lake where you will have great views and you will be told the various stories behind this treasured lake.It is found in central Uganda in Buganda Kingdom and it is the only place where you can have a real view of Uganda's history.

You will be transferred to a restaurant for lunch where you will enjoy different African dishes before proceeding to Namugongo Pilgrimage site. At this place,you will have a real feel of what the Uganda martyrs went through as they were burnt alive by the then king of Buganda.

Return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight.

Day 2:Transfer to Tororo and village tours

 Wake up in the morning and have breakfast before you are transferred to Tororo town in Eastern Uganda.It is quite a long journey which takes about 5hours by road.Reach in the afternoon and have lunch and relaxation before going for an evening cultural tour through the different villages in the region.Meet and interact with the local people ho will tell you some amazing stories.

Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 3:cultural walk and Tororo rock painting

This is the most exciting day on your safari as you visit the Tororo rock painting site where cement is manufactured from.This is a cultural site which involved hiking on the mountain past various caves that are believed to have been homes for the ancestors.Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation before going for another cultural walk through villages.

Return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight.

Day 4:Transfer back to Kampala

Wake up in the morning and have breakfast before being transfered back to Kampala or Airport.

This will be the end of our 4 days cultural safaris Uganda.

Pilrgimages to Namugongo Increase - cultural Safaris Uganda

I know you must have heard about this cultural and Holy site in Uganda (Namugongo Pilgrimage site). What you probably don't know is the true history attached to this place and what Ugandans think about it.It is one of the most adored sites in Uganda which is highly respected by cultural leaders,government and religious leaders.

Some of the people walking past the site

Namugongo Pilgrimage site is where the the early believers Christianity where brutally murdered from by the then king of Buganda, Kabaka Mwanga.They were burn alive for their faith at this place after refusing to denounce the religion which according to the Kabaka was a whiteman's religion.To him,he wanted his people to only follow the true African religion (African Tradition) and he never welcomed Christianity in his land.It was on 3rd June when the king ordered his soldiers to burn all those that had converted to this "threatening" religion.

Today,Ugandans keep on remembering these people who died because of their faith by making annual pilgrimages to the place where they were burnt from.Many people from different parts of the country walk of foot regardless of the long distance as a sign of hilliness and respect for the martyrs.

Some of the attractions at the site

Initially,the Pope had pro promised to grace the function slated to take place on 3rd June at Namugongo Pilgrimage site in remembrance of the Uganda martyrs but later communicated that he wouldn't be able to make it this year and promised to put it into considerations next year.Many tourist had planned to travel with the Pope on his visit but Uganda missed out this great opportunity.However, there are other tourists from different parts of the world who have already jetted into this East African country to grace the ceremony.
From this place,they will extend their safari to other destinations in the country where they will get a chance of exploring some of the great adventurous sites which are had to find.

A cultural safari to Uganda this year is one of the "must" experiences that you should not miss because of the guaranteed lifetime experiences that will help you discover why Uganda is ranked the best tourism destination in Africa.

Peter Mayiga,Buganda's Prime Minister praised by Kabaka - Cultural Safari News Uganda

If you are a Ugandan especially from Buganda kingdom,then you know this gentle man and what he has been doing for the last one year.In case you don't know him,he is the prime minister of Buganda and he was assigned to do this job by the Kabaka(king) of Buganda.For the past years,prime ministers of thie largest cultural kingdom of Buganda were old and many Baganda men and women were surprised by the kabaka's choice of a youthful Katikiro.Some thought that he can not do well and they related him to failure but after sometime,they started believing in his success.

Katikiro Charles Peter Mayiga sitting down at one of the cultural ceremonies

One of the kings that have made Peter Mayinga standout to an extent that every Ugandan knows him is his move to revamp Kasubi Tombs,a royal site which was burnt down in 2011.This is the site where kings from this great kingdom are buried and many tourist from  different parts of the world on their cultural safari to Uganda endeavor to visit the place.In his movement known as "tafaali",he has gained momentum and love from the local people of Buganda and also some from other kingdoms.Tafaali means a brick used for building and it was chosen as a slogan for his campaign because he moves around collecting money for reconstruction of the Kasubi Tombs(Amasiro). Though little was known about him,it didn't stop him from even crossing the borders of Buganda and going to other tribes collecting money for thr reconstruction of this cultural site.

He has collected a lot of money in that he also can't believe that his campaign has turned out to be a success.Today, he is one of the most prominent person in Uganda and he has achieved this in just one year.Since his appointment as Katikiro,Buganda has experienced  rapid development and this has won him trust and love among the Baganda people.He has promoted unity among the people especially the youths which had started deteriorating.

In recognition of his achievements,the Kabaka,King came out and thanked him and he also praised him for being an achiever who has helped in restoring Buganda's pride.He further on urged him to continue with his campaign of bringing back the lost glory to the kingdom.

On your cultural safari to Uganda,you can visit this largest kingdom in Uganda and also tour some of the historical cultural sites that will leave you wondering how a true African came into existence.

Gain more from your tour - Cultural Safaris

Many tourists who visit Uganda are ignorant about how to maximize their days spent in this great nation gifted with nature and cultural experiences that cannot be found else where in the world.The main reason for this is that many visitors don't plan well before embarking on their journey to the Eat African country.One of the best way to have a boring cultural safari is by not planing well for the trip.Planing covers a lot of things including finances,the tour company to use,visa obtaining,clothes to carry,and many more.

Below are some of the best ways you can turn your holiday in Uganda a success;-

Carry enough money:One of the commonest mistakes made by most tourists is traveling with inadequate money.This comes as a result of poor planning and they end up getting stranded before even exploring most parts of Uganda.This is why one must make a budget that covers all the things that he/she plans to spend on throughout hi/her stay in this East African country.

Find out the cultural norms of Uganda:Before you jet into the country for your tour,you are advised to find out the what behaviors are liked and those that are hated by the local people.Irritating cultural behaviors may end up messing up your trip as people are look at you as an outcast.It is therefore recommended that you do what is expected of you and not what pleases you.

Use a credible tour company:Many tourists have been tricked by fake companies that pretend to be helping them in preparations for their journey.This is the reason why a visitor is advised to only use a company that he/she is sure that it is credible and real.Our company is one of the best tour companies in Uganda which is credited for its experienced stuff that aid visitors to visit various destinations of Uganda at low costs with a classic touch.Visit us on www.adventureugandasafaris.com for more information.

Carry enough clothes:Though you can buy some cultural clothes in Uganda for remembrance,you are advised to carry enough clothes that you will wear throughout your stay in this "pearl of Africa". A short safari tour requires you to carry moderately few clothes.However,you are advised to carry clothes that are culturally acceptable in the Ugandan context.Short pants will not look good to wear in public because according to the Ugandan culture,its seen immoral to expose your thighs in public.

Learn a few local languages:I know this sonds a bit hard but as you plan your journey,try to learn some key words in the local languages.When it comes to Uganda,the commonest language used is Luganda which is easy to learn.Lear how to greet,bargain,address people,praise in Luganda.

Karimojongs get boosted by NGO's - Cultural Safari News

In the past,Karimojongs were taken to be unfriendly people with rude behaviors because of their way of life,They used to move with guns while rearing the cows in the plains so as to protect their cows from thieves and if someone dared to raid the cows,a true Karimojong wouldn't hesitate to shoot you.This is the reason why cultural safari tours to this region were at low rate as many tourists feared risking their lives.Another reason was the war that greatly affected the Karimojongs and the Acholi people.

Homesteads of Karimojongs

However,with the peace installation in Karimojong region by the Ugandan government,many developments including tourism boosts have been witnessed in the region and recently,different NGO's came out and vowed to develop the region's tourism.Though located in remote places,Karimojongs are one of the few ethnic tribes in Uganda that have reserved their cultural beliefs and norms.Today,a cultural safari tour to northern Uganda is one the best tours because of the guaranteed magnificent adventures.If you are interested in witnessing the true lifestyle of an African man or woman,then this is the best site to visit in Uganda.

Get a chance of witnessing how these Karimojongs set up their grass thatched houses which are constructed close to each other.Meet and greet the local people who will tell you different stories about their origin and what they go through as they try to forge a living.

Karimojong cultural dance

Because of the reserved cultural tourism fraternities,different NGO's have decided to encourage the local people to maintain their culture and avoid diluting it with the western culture.The fact is that some Karimojongs had started abandoning their cultures and had started copying the western cultures including way of dressing,singing,dancing,greeting and many more.According to the tourism minister,this was affecting the industry because many tourists from different parts of the world travel to northern Uganda to have a glance at the rare-culture.

With the new initiative of conserving the Karimojong culture,the region will boost of important transformations that will improve the lives of the local people and also increase revenue collected from the tourism industry.

A cultural safari tour to Uganda will enable you visit this region full of African cultural adventures that you have never seen in your lifetime.

Ajono,a margical-uniting drink in Uganda - Cultural safaris

When it comes to Uganda culture,there are amazing things that a tourist has never imagined.The lifestyle of a true Uganda is so interesting that if explored about,one may wonder how these black people came into existence.The diversity of cultural experience guaranteed to visitor on his/her safari to Uganda is one of the unique features of this East African country.

Local people enjoying Ajono

Forget about the distilled alcohol in your home country,Ugandans have their own way of making local brew and if you are not keen enough,you may mistake it to be manufactured.The African chemistry involved in the process of making this local brew (Ajono) is so interesting and many tourists on their cultural safari to Uganda have appreciated the art of Ugandans.

Ajono is one of the leading consumed alcohol in Uganda because of its strong attachment to African culture.There are some tribes in Uganda which take this brew as a cultural drink which everyone must take.Some even believe that by taking this drink,the gods or ancestors are pleased and the community gets blessings.It mostly consumed by eastern tribes of Uganda with Itesotes leading the trend.

What is Ajono
Ajono is simply a local  alcoholic brew made from millet  and sorghum.It is also known as "Malwa" in the local language it is a common drink among Ugandans.To many people,this drink is termed as a uniting drink simply because people gather in big numbers and discus various issues about their society.They make friends at the drinking point who they couldn't have met without this special drink.

About Ajono
The history about this drink drifts straight from the ancient times.History has it that the first people used this drink to create friendship amongst them They could our the drink in a big pot and all men from different corners of the village sit around this pot to have a sip.Meanwhile as they are drinking,many issues concerning the community are discussed and solutions are reached at.

The same history is reflected today in some of the ethnic tribes of Uganda and in the evening,local people meet at a designated point and enjoy the drink.They usually play music while drinking and some even sing-along.

However,not everyone is allowed to take this uniting drink.Children below the age of 18 are strictly not allowed to take Ajono and if found,its a serious crime.Women are also exempted from sharing a pot of Ajono with the men.

On your cultural tour to Uganda,don't miss to see a group of people converging around a pot full of Ajono.It is a common practice (mainly in villages of Uganda ) to drink this uniting drink and therefore,you should make a village tour inorder to see how this brew is consumed.

Ajono is cheaper compared to other alcoholic drinks and a pot full costs around shs.1000.It is of late that some distilling companies have started packaging this local brew each pack going for UGX 2000.

Make a cultural safari to Uganda and enjoy this magnificent drink.

Cultural Safaris to Uganda increase

This is one of the best moments for Uganda when it comes to tourism because of the recorded increase in the number of visitors.Most of these visitors come specifically to find out how Ugandans live and their cultural practices.The strong reason behind this improvement is the presence of various tribes and ethnic groups each with its own unique cultural practices.

Uganda is one of the leading African countries with the highest number of ethnic groups and this has marketed it more than other countries.Many tourists that have visited this great nation have a story to tell because of the adventurous experience they found.

This "pearl of Africa" consists of friendly people with courteous and gracious ways which  are hard to find else where in Africa.These people have different values and these can only be witnessed through meeting the local people physically.Meet and interact with some Ugandans who will tell you all you need to know about  culture and beliefs of the people.Get to know the conservative nature of Africans specifically Ugandans when it comes to cultural norms.

Uganda has more than 40 ethnic tribes and some of them are Buganda, Busoga, Bugisu, Ankole, Bunyoro, Iteso, and many more.Each of these tribes has its own way of living and different values and customs.The most prominent tribe in Uganda is Buganda with the highest number of people.This tribe is located in the central Uganda and it has a hereditary system of governance(headed by Kabaka-King).

Apart from meeting the local people,you can visit some of the historical sites in Uganda that portray the true culture of this nation and the first instruments to made by the early men

.Some of these sites include the Kasubi tombs,Kaggulu hill,.Namirembe pilgrimage site,the Uganda museum,different cultural palaces and many more.Still on your safari,you can enjoy some cultural dances and songs which will make you relaxed and awesome.

You may be wondering how you can enjoy this.Its simple,all you need to do is to contact us so that we can arrange a safari for you at low prices.We can organize this adventurous trip  to Uganda and also ensure that your movements in the country are classic and safe.Our skilled guides are always there to travel along with your whenever you go and they are ready to answer any question that you ask. 

Why you need a Visa Card on your Cultural Safari

I know you must be wondering why some tourists get stuck on their safari to various destinations but one of the reason is lack of visa cards.Before you are allowed to enjoy a cultural safari to Uganda,you are required to obtain a visa card which acts as an authorizing document to visit this "pearl of Africa". Compared to other foreign countries,obtaining a visa in Uganda is quite easy and this is why tourists find it more convenient to visit this East African country.


Below are the ways through which a visitor can obtain visas

1. You can apply for the visa at your point of entry for example at Entebbe Airport  or at the border.This is more convenient and it is the cheapest way to obtain the visas because no mails and photos are required.All you need to do is to fill out an entrance form plus your passport dates and information.Currently a Tourism visa costs 50 USD upon entry and its valid for 90 days.However,this cost is due to change as a result of the proposed single tourism visa card for all East African countries.
2. Another way through which a tourist can obtain a visa while on a tour to Uganda is by applying and buying  from foreign countries like Canada, Belgium, China, France, Denmark, Italy, India, Germany, Russia, United Kingdom ,South Africa, USA and others.You can apply personally with 2 passport photos and an application form which is downloaded from the Embassy website in your country origin.

Visa Safari Tips
Before you accept a visa,make sure that it covers your full stay in Uganda to avoid inconveniences.You are advised to be polite when asking for a visa if you want to get your requests met.
It is a common practice in Uganda that the local people find it hard to acquire a visa elsewhere but once they get it,it covers their full stay in the country.For tourists entering the country  with an aim of staying for a long time,it is quite difficult when it comes to negotiations.Even if you have a more than 7 month visa in your passport issued by the Ugandan Embassy in your country of origin,you may get surprised to get a stamp for 3 months.

For tourists,the dates are most likely covered in full especially if its a short term safari (2 or 3 weeks).In situations where a visitor wants to re-enter Uganda and visit other countries,she/he can apply for a multiple entry visa.However,one visa card obtained in Uganda can be used to access other East African countries without obtaining another one.

Upon entry into Uganda, you must provide the following to obtain a Visa

• A valid passport issued by your country of origin
• International Health certificate
• Enough funds or ways to obtain the funds

If you have met all the above requirements,then you are free to obtain a visa card that will open the doors to an adventurous cultural experience on your safari.Get to know about the culture of Uganda and even meet the local people.Our company can help you to enjoy a wonderful trip to this East African country at fair prices.All you need to do is to visit adventureugandasafaris.com or contact us on info@adventureugandasafaris.com

A four days tour of Kagulu Rock and the Nile Adventure

Have you ever thought of a cultural safari to one of Uganda's historical sites? Then Kagulu rock found on Kagulu Hill in eastern Uganda is the answer.In addition of having many caves each with an attached story about its origin,the hill means a lot to the local people.
Below is a drafted itinerary that you can follow on your cultural trip;

Local people gathered around the healing waters on top of the hill

Day 1: Entebbe to Kampla
On your arrival at Entebbe international airport,you will be met by our trained guides and drivers wgo will welcome you and drive you to your hotel.Dinner and over night at this hotel as you prepare for the long-awaited trip.

Day 2:From Kampala to Kamuli
Wake up early in the morning and have breakfast before being briefed by our trained guides.These guides will give you all the necessary information about this cultural safari before experiencing it live.You will depart from Kampala at around 8:00 am to the east of Uganda passing through Mukono historical town.
Make a detour at Kayanja to enjoy breathtaking splendid views of the Ssezibwa falls.
Proceed to Uganda's second capital city full of ancient buildings that portray the true African architecture (Jinja).While in this town,you will step in the footsteps of the Eng-lish John Speke who discovered the source of the Nile.You will have lunch at one of the best spots on the Nile while enjoying scenic views of the nature.
After the sumptuous meal,head to Kamuli town.You will reach in the evening.Dinner and overnight at a newly Century Hotel.

Day 3:Kagulu Hill hike
Wake up in the morning and have your breakfast before leaving for Kagulu Rock at 8:00am.Experience a thrilling environment while at the site and enjoy cultural views for the whole day.A hike on this hill provides you with wonderful feelings as you spot historical things that you have never seen.Meet and greet the local people who stay around this cultural site.Listen to their stories that are full of African History.
Have an unforgettable meal of real fresh and delicious fish awaiting you as you descend from the rock by midday.Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.

Day 4:Return to Kampala
Have breakfast in the morning before embarking on your journey back to Kampala.

This will mark the end of our cultural Safari.




To enjoy this trip,please contact us on info@adventureugandasafaris.com

Enjoying a Boda Boda ride in Kampala

Forget about the sky scrappers and ever-busy roads in your country,transport in Kampala,the capital city of Uganda is one of the easiest things to do on your cultural trip to Uganda.It doesn't matter which part of the city you are interested to go to but how to access the place in the least time possible.

All smiles on a boda-boda

Just like other cities in Africa,the common mean of transport is by use of taxis (vans) and boda-bodas.You might be wondering what the word boda-boda means but its simply a motorcycle used to carry passengers.These are ridden by highly skilled men who can weave in and out of traffic with ease.If its your first time cultural safari to Uganda,you might get shocked by this scary ride carrying a big suitcase and with no helmet.Don't thing that the word boda boda is a Ugandan word.In context,this word means "service every where" from Border to Border.

Trust me this experience is more adventurous and unique compared to just sitting in a car with all doors closed.While in Uganda,this is the quickest mean of transport which is not affected by traffic.
A boda boda carries a maximum of two people and tall passengers are advised to sit behind.Always ensure that you dont exceed the maximum number to avoid accidents.

Now you know what is compared to bungee jumping and skiing on a safari to Uganda.A ride on these boda bodas is scary and adventurous.

One of our clients enjoying a ride

But how will you experience it?Its easy.Just arrange a trip to Uganda with our company and we shall draft a city tour itinerary for you plus booking accommodation at fair costs.We can extend you tour to other villages in Uganda where you will get to see how the local people live and their rare lifestyles.

Please consult us on info@adventureugandasafaris.com or www.adventureugandasafaris.com