Bradt Guides, an international tourism agency, has thrust Uganda into the limelight by ranking it as the fourth top tourism destination in the world to explore in 2024.

Standing shoulder to shoulder with highly ranked competitors like Switzerland, Antarctica, and the Falkland Islands, Uganda has captured global attention for its diverse attractions.

Bradt Guides presents a tantalising array of attractions. In the lead is the renowned Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, boasting over 50% of the world's remaining mountain gorillas.

This exceptional opportunity for close encounters with primates comes with an opportunity for visitors to marvel at the majestic Murchison Falls.

Here, the mighty River Nile dramatically plunges through a narrow gorge, generating a powerful cascade that reverberates against the surrounding rocks with a resounding gush and splash.

Also, the snow-capped peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains offer an ideal terrain for trekking expeditions and bird-watching, as well as the intriguing diverse plant life and rich coffee cultivation heritage.

Besides, there is the renowned Queen Elizabeth National Park, where tourists are sure of an encounter with the big five wild animals; buffaloes, elephants, leopards, hippos and the tree-climbing lions at Ishasha, which serve as the climax of that product.

The warmth and hospitality of the local people, along with their vibrant music, diverse cuisines, and exquisite wines make tourists feel at home. To spice the treat are the bustling markets of Kampala and the rich cultural traditions of local tribes.

The agency notes in its report that Uganda’s hosting of international conferences like the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and Group of 77 (G77) + China has improved the country’s position as a leading destination for tourists.

Bradt Guides names Madagascar and Zanzibar as the only other outstanding tourism destinations on the African continent that have received a high ranking after Uganda.

Officials comment

Foreign affairs ministry permanent secretary Vincent Bagiire said Uganda offers a variety of experiences that beckon travellers, making it deserve to be added to Bradt Guides' list of must-visit destinations.

“This is no surprise given Uganda's growing popularity. Tourists from around the globe continue to defy travel advisories and flock to Uganda to experience attractions such as mountain gorillas. Our nation's image is shining brightly, and we are diligently working to mend relationships with those who may have been offended by our policies," stated Bagiire.

He said Bradt Guides’ recommendation comes after Uganda successfully hosting the NAM and G77+China summits brought positive attention and exposure to what makes Uganda an attractive destination for investors, tourists, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions).

Tourism state minister Martin Mugarra shared the same views as Bagiire. “Uganda's recognition as a top tourist destination in 2024 comes as no surprise, given the steady recovery of the tourism sector and positive feedback being received from various governments.”

Uganda Tourism Board chief executive officer Lilly Ajarova attributed the ranking to a concerted effort focused on conservation, development of tourism products, and aggressive destination marketing.

“The resumption of grading of hotels, participation in trade fairs, developing of products and having a MICE desk is evidence of the work being done around the clock. In May 2024, all eyes will be on the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) where we will showcase the latest services and attractions in place. We expect more participants,” said Ajarova.

Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Executive Director Sam Mwandha emphasised the significance of ranking in bolstering wildlife conservation efforts.

"Most of the surviving mountain gorillas reside in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, offering the most authentic tracking experience globally. Tourists will be surprised, their reproduction doubled during the two years of the COVID-19 lockdown. For safety, we have increased the number of rangers and tourism police in the parks,” Mwandha revealed.

Parity Twinomujuni, of Hawk’s Eye by Lake Bunyonyi in Kabale, noted a consistent rise in the number of domestic and foreign travelers.

"After their memorable encounter with the gorillas, many trackers choose to extend their adventure with a nature walk here. Additionally, visitors can enjoy thrilling activities such as zip-lining between islands above Lake Bunyonyi, one of the deepest lakes globally. The cultural tour showcasing the traditions of the Batwa and Bakiga communities adds an extra layer of excitement for many," Twinomujuni noted.

Speke Resort General Manager Greg Petzer said the fourth position is tantamount to a double thumbs-up gesture to service providers, who complement the tourism chain of service providers.

According to UWA, foreign non-residents took the lion’s share of visitors’ numbers to protected areas in the financial year 2022-2023 with 382,000 visitors, of which East Africans were 101, 860.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019, Uganda welcomed over 1.5 million visitors and received $1.6b (over sh6 trillion) in tourist revenue; this was cut to one third in the following year, according to Tourism Minister Tom Butime. However, the numbers have since gone back to pre-COVID-19 times.

Flashback

-CNN listed Uganda as one of the best tourist destinations in the year 2023.

- In 2013 National Geographic picked Uganda as one of the best travel destinations in the world.

-The New York Times also listed Uganda as one of the 33 locations to consider when planning travel.

-In 2012, Lonely Planet named Uganda as one of the best countries to visit.

- UNESCO declared Bwindi Impenetrable Forest as one of the best birding destinations in the world in 2012.