Fast Facts:

1. It’s a landlocked country located in East Africa and it’s the 33rd largest country in Africa.

2. Its capital and largest city is Kampala.

3. Major languages: English (official), Swahili (official), Ganda, and 30+ indigenous languages

4. Major ethnic groups: Ganda, Nkole, Soga, Kiga, Teso, Lango, Gisu, Acholi

5. Major religions: Christianity (84%), Islam (14%), Other and none (2%)

6. It gained independence from the United Kingdom in October 1962.

7. It’s named after the Buganda kingdom, which encompasses a large portion of central Uganda, including Kampala.

8. It is home to the source of the Nile River, the world’s longest river.

9. It is home to Africa’s largest lake, Lake Victoria.

10. It is one of 13 countries that the equator passes through.

11. It is one of only 3 places in the world to see mountain gorillas in the wild.

12. The Rwenzori Mountains, in southwest Uganda on the border with DRC, are home to 6 of the 10 tallest peaks in Africa.

13. Tourism centers around wildlife, nature, cultural, and adventure activities. Popular attractions include: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (the primary gorilla trekking location), Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth National Park (home to tree climbing lions), Lake Bunyonyi, Crater Lakes region, Rwenzori Mountains, Ssese Islands, and white water rafting, tubing, bungee jumping, and quad biking in Jinja.

14. Things to do in Kampala include: Uganda National Cultural Centre, Uganda National Museum, National Botanical Gardens, Kabaka’s Palace, Idi Amin Torture Chambers, Kasubi Tombs, Uganda Martyrs Shrine, Owino Market, Kampala Craft Market, the Old Taxi Park, Uganda National Mosque, and Saint Paul’s Cathedral.

Map of Uganda
Map of Uganda
Video credit: Uganda Tourism Board
Video credit: The African Myths Show
Video credit: Mr. Musinguzi