Pearl of Africa

May is a beautiful month to visit Uganda and especially if you want to climb the Rwenzori Mountains or drive through on a motorbike or simply cycle.

From a 3 day visit by Prince William to Miss Uganda winning the title of Beauty with a Purpose, to the forests of Kibali and the Ghetto Kids at America's got Talent its all there for you to read and enjoy. No pop up ads, no flash photography. Just pure enjoyment.

Its Wildlife month in Uganda and Bradt Travel Guide has voted Uganda the 4th best destination in the world for tourism. BushBabies Maya and Manfred visit Uganda and their story and photos will definitely get you out of your armchair. The Culinary School from Kamapala sends their best student to India to compete in the culinary olympiad. And Bwindi Gorilla trekking will show you how fit you need to be to find them!

I was fortunate to visit Uganda in early December 2023. Its reputation for being the best in East Africa is true. The people and their regard for not only each other but visitors and its wildlife is beyond what you would expect.

Birding in Uganda is the most prolific of all Africa's countries. With over 1000 bird species, (more than South Africa and the country is much smaller), a birding safari is just the right opportunity for birders.

Uganda is known as the Pearl of Africa. Winston Churchill coined the nickname “The Pearl of Africa” in 1908, to convey the beauty, variety, and natural wealth of the land. Since then, Uganda has grown into one of Africa's most coveted travel sojourns.

This issue explores the Jinja area which is the source of the great Nile River together with the crowning of the new Miss Tourism Uganda, Nabukonde Ruokaky. We also wish the President a happy birthday as he celebrates his 79th birthday. Enjoy white river rafting and tubing and tracking the gorilla with Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka Uganda's famous conservationist. We also look at some of the great sportsman that Uganda is proud to call their own.

Uganda is one of Africa's most beautiful and bountiful countries. Rich in culture and diversity, it is the perfect tourist destination. Explore Uganda with us in this, our monthly magazine, Pearl of Africa. The Pearl is blessed with an undeniable natural beauty. In the west, the Rwenzori peaks reach towards the sky, the perfect challenge for bold explorers – Across the nation, parks are home to some of the world’s most exotic animals: Silverbacks, lions and countless others, ooh… Uganda is home to Africa’s big 5. Winding roads lead to places of grand beauty and unique cultures for those who dare to explore. There’s a story at every turn, especially from our people, who are renowned for their warmth and charm. Enjoy the music of Byonkola By David Lutalo

Thank you Explore Uganda, Uganda Tourism Board, Uganda Wildlife Authority and all those who participated in the most memorable trip of a lifetime in December 2023.