Forget the 7 Wonders of the World; See the 7 Wonders of Uganda
Uganda may not be at the top of everyone’s holiday destination list, but according to Lonely Planet, which is one of the biggest and most reputable travel portals in the world, Uganda is the place to visit in 2012. The country’s biggest drawcard is its gorilla safaris, which are occasionally controversial but which, by and large, are recognised to do a lot of good. Gorillas aren’t Uganda’s only attractions, however.
Being in Africa, there are plenty of big game safaris available. So you can check into some luxury resorts or lodges, pitch a tent or even find simple accommodation in small local towns and villages before going in search of the big five.
The national park you choose should depend on what animals you want to see. For instance, the Kibale Forest National Park is something of a primate haven with chimpanzees, colobus monkeys and I’hoesti monkeys. The park is said to have the highest density of primates in Africa.
Lake Mburo National Park is great for bird watchers and the Murchison Falls National Park is great for big game.
Uganda’s 7 Wonders
You probably know about the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World and the search for the new 7 Wonders of the Natural World. None of Uganda’s attractions made the short list, but that doesn’t mean the country is content to let things be.
It’s implemented a 7 Wonders National Programme to create more awareness of Uganda’s attractions within the country, as well as internationally. Regions with distinct fauna and flora will be considered, as well as mountains and rivers, and sites of historical and geological significance.
According to 2010 tourism figures, Uganda was one of the lowest earners in Africa, while countries that invested in infrastructure, services and accommodation, Tanzania, Kenya and Rwanda among them, earned significantly higher returns.
Uganda has a reputation for being one of Africa’s most stable countries, politically and economically speaking. It’s attraction as a tourist destination has been dampened, however, by the fact that its neighbours, Rwanda and the DRC, have semi-regular problems and are generally considered unsafe for tourists.
Lonely Planet’s survey results that place Uganda at the top of the list of best places to visit ion 2012 will go a long way toward helping Uganda regain some of its former glory. Ugandan tourism authorities are also hoping that the 7 Wonders National Programme will attract hordes of holiday makers. The country is aiming for one million visitors (double its current yearly average) and revenue amounting to at least $25 billion.
Sandy writes for a number of different blogs, including those on Tanzania accommodation and other African adventures.
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