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Discover all blogsUganda Wildlife Authority has today launched the Open Park Days initiative, set to take place on October 17th and 18th, 2024. The initiative was announced by UWA’ Director of Tourism and Business Development Mr. Stephen Masaba on behalf of the Executive Director. The Open Park Days initiative offers all Ugandans the opportunity to visit some of the country’s most iconic national parks—Murchison Falls, Lake Mburo, Kidepo Valley, Queen Elizabeth, and Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve without having to pay entrance fees. Additionally, the initiative includes complimentary game drives, providing visitors with a unique and immersive experience of Uganda’s breath taking landscapes and diverse wildlife.
The Kikorongo Equator Line Monument in Kasese has been officially inaugurated, marking a significant milestone for Uganda's tourism sector. Located near Queen Elizabeth National Park, this new monument replaces a previous structure that failed to attract visitors. The revamped site aims to enhance the visitor experience, offering opportunities for memorable photos at the intersection of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities Tom Butime and State Minister for Tourism Martin Mugarra Bahinduka. State Minister for ICT Godfrey Kabbyanga Baluku highlighted the importance of the redesign, stating that the new site offers an immersive experience that showcases Uganda’s natural beauty. He noted that the response has been overwhelmingly positive, with 340 tourists visiting the site in its first week, a figure that surged to 13,500 by September 27. Baluku emphasized that the equator represents a connection between cultures and communities. In response to the influx of visitors, developers are planning to enhance the site with amenities such as a restaurant and restroom facilities, alongside accommodations that reflect the region's unique heritage. Local stakeholders are optimistic that the Kikorongo Equator Monument will boost tourism and economic activity, benefiting local businesses and contributing to economic growth. This project aligns with Uganda's broader strategy to develop unique tourism attractions and promote sustainable tourism. Minister Butime stated that enhancing the Kikorongo Equator site is a key step in positioning Uganda competitively in the global tourism industry. Celebrity artist Bebe Cool, who attended the event, echoed this sentiment, describing the monument as a game-changer for attracting visitors. Originally erected in 1952 by the colonial government and commissioned by Queen Elizabeth II, the old monument was dismantled in March 2019 during road widening. A temporary PVC banner was installed, prompting officials to note a significant shift in the area's development. With 1.5 billion Ugandan Shillings invested in the redesign, the Kikorongo Equator Monument is set to become a major tourist attraction, enhancing national pride and economic prosperity. The Uganda Equator Monument in Kayabwe is next in line for redevelopment.
Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has announced the resumption of hiking activities to Margherita Peak in Rwenzori Mountains National Park. Following a temporary suspension due to safety concerns, UWA has successfully implemented safety enhancements to ensure the well-being of all hikers. Key among these improvements is the construction of a bridge across the crevasse in the Margherita glacier. This bridge, along with additional climbing ropes installed in collaboration with partners in the park, will enable safe passage through the challenging sections of the trail. With these safety measures now in place, hiking to Margherita Peak can safely resume. UWA is confident that these enhancements will provide a safer and more enjoyable experience for all visitors seeking to summit one of Africa’s most iconic peaks. UWA continues to encourage visitors to explore not only Margherita Peak but also the other stunning peaks within Rwenzori Mountains National Park, including Mount Speke, Mount Baker, and Cheptegei Peak on the Stanley Range. Each of the routes to these peaks offers a unique adventure, showcasing the breathtaking beauty and diversity of the Rwenzori Mountains. UWA will maintain close monitoring of the hiking routes to ensure ongoing safety and will provide updates as needed. We look forward to welcoming adventurers back to the heights of Rwenzori Mountains National Park.
Uganda is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, most of which inhabit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. UWA has successfully increased the Bwindi mountain gorilla population from 302 individuals in 2005 to 459 in 2019. Gorilla tourism also provides substantial revenue and employment opportunities for local communities.This will be eefective 1st July 2024 to 2026
Ugandas famous national park