UGANDA AT A GLANCE
- Size and location
- Local time
- Geography
- Climate
- Visa
- Money
- Health
- Language
- Airports
- Clothing
- Electricity
- Accommodation
Size
(235.796 Km2 -91.041 sq Miles) This s country is similar to Great Britain or the state of Oregon in the U.S.A.
She lies between latitudes 4 degrees 12 ‘N and 1 DGREE 29’ S and longitudes 29 degrees 3s’W and 25 degrees E. It is bordered by Rwanda (169 Km) and Tanzania (396 Km) to the South, Kenya (933Km) to the East, Sudan (435Km) to the North and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for 765 Km to the West.85% of the country lies between 900M and 1500M ABOVE SEA LEVEL. The lowest point is L.Albert at 621 M and the highest being Mt.Stanley (on the Rwenzoris) at 5.110 M. Population according to 2002 census was at 24.6M.
Local Time
GMT +3
Geography
The beautiful country of Uganda is located in the East African region and lies on the elevated basin, which rises between the eastern and western branches of the Great Rift Valley. The country is generally flat with Mountainous areas particularly in the western part of the country. It is one country with exceptional scenic beauty, landlocked and lies between the two East African Rift Valleys. The 70 Km long and 30 Km wide Rwenzori Mountains form the highest Mountain Ranges in Africa. Other Mountains in Uganda include The Volcanic Virunga Range shared by Rwanda and Congo, Mt.Elgon, an Extinct Volcano shared with Kenya and other smaller volcanic mountains in the East and North.
Most of Uganda is well watered and fertile, with exception of the semi-desert in the Karamoja area. L.Victoria, the second largest fresh water lake and yet the largest in Africa is shared by Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya. The re is other important water bodies like L.Kyoga, L.George and Edward as well as L.Albert.The world's longest river-the Nile has its source in Uganda.
Climate
Uganda lies in the tropics hence experiences good climate all year round. Most parts of the country experience daily maximum temperatures of between 20 degrees C and 27 degrees C with the minimum being 12 degrees C and 18 degrees C. Besides the dry North most parts of the country receives an annual rainfall of between 1000mm and 2000mm.Wsetern Uganda and the L.Victoria basin may receive rain at any time of the year. Wet seasons though are mid September to November and March to May.
Visa
Visas are necessary for most Nationals and can be obtained prior to travel
Money
The Uganda shilling is the local currency. It is advisable to carry the American dollars or travelers cheques or any other major hard currency. We have numerous forex bureaus and Banks in the capital-Kampala and other main towns. Major hotels accept credit cards though it is best to carry cash upcountry.
Health
Yellow fever vaccinations are mandatory we recommend anti-malarial tablets. Most drugs can be bought at an affordable price and with ease over the counter in Kampala. Personal insurance is advised.
Official Language
English, Uganda and many other local dialects. Swahili is also widely spoken and understood.
Airports
Currently there is one international Airport at Entebbe. A number of international airlines fly direct to Entebbe. Most major towns have an airstrip as do most National Parks and Game reserves.
Clothing
Light clothing, hats, sturdy boots, and long sleeved shirts for evening, sweat shirts of fleece for evenings upcontryn and sunscreen. It is usually hot by midday, however evenings are cool.
Electricity
240 Volts at 50 HZ.
Accommodation
Kampala has good hotels ranging from 5Star to comfortable lodges and inns that fit all budgets. Elsewhere across the country and in the National Parks, hotels and inns are generally available but quality of service and rooms vary greatly.
