Quick answers to the questions people ask first about Uganda, the Pearl of Africa.
Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa, straddling the equator and bordered by Kenya, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda and Tanzania. Winston Churchill’s description of it as the “Pearl of Africa” is still widely used. Here are the facts visitors search for most.
Quick FactsKampala. The international airport is at Entebbe.
East Africa, landlocked, with a large share of Lake Victoria.
The line crosses Uganda near Kayabwe, on the road between Kampala and Masaka, and again near Kasese.
English and Swahili are official; Luganda is widely spoken.
Yes. Uganda has no sea coast, but it holds large lakes, including part of Lake Victoria, Africa’s biggest lake, and the sources of the Nile near Jinja. See lakes and rivers of Uganda.
The equator crosses Uganda at several points. The most popular stop for photographs is on the Kampala to Masaka road, where a monument marks the line. A second crossing lies near Kasese on the way to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Standing with a foot in each hemisphere is a fun break from a long drive.
The flag has six horizontal stripes of black, yellow and red, with a grey crowned crane in a white circle. Uganda is about 241,000 square kilometres, roughly the size of the United Kingdom, with a population of more than 45 million. These are approximate figures, and official statistics change.
Uganda holds about half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, plus chimpanzees, savannah wildlife and white-water adventures. Start with our Uganda destination guide, and check Uganda weather by month and Uganda money and tipping before you fly.
Frequently Asked QuestionsKampala.
Yes, it is a landlocked East African country on the equator.
Kenya, South Sudan, the DR Congo, Rwanda and Tanzania.
English and Swahili are official, and Luganda is the most widely spoken local language.
Plan a luxury Uganda safari with Ameera Africa Safaris — gorilla trekking, national parks and golf.
Explore →English and Swahili are official, Luganda is the most widely spoken local language, and dozens of ethnic groups share the country.
Explore →Uganda’s equatorial climate is mild, with two rainy seasons that rarely stop a safari.
Explore →Uganda visa and entry requirements — e-visa process, the East African Tourist Visa, and yellow fever documentation.
Explore →Tell us your dates and interests and we will design the route around you.
