Uganda's alternate attractions and unmatched experiences excite Australians

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Uganda’s lesser-known tourist attractions are capturing the imagination of Australians, many of whom are only discovering now that the East African nation — also called the Pearl of Africa — offers far more than its world-famous wildlife.

Long promoted as the land of the “Big Seven”—lions, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, leopards, chimpanzees, and gorillas—Uganda is now adding an eighth drawcard: its people and culture.

The shift towards promoting alternative attractions such as festivals, cuisine, and cultural experiences has sparked growing interest among Australian tour operators.

Jodie Collins of Luxury Tours, who attended Uganda’s final tourism roadshow at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium, admitted she was surprised by what she learned.

“Our focus was always on gorilla trekking,” she said. “The presentation opened our eyes to the many other attractions Uganda offers. We are wondering why these haven’t been marketed more widely.”

The presentation was led by Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) marketing manager Francis Hatinda Nyende, who showcased Uganda’s diverse experiences — from its scenic landscapes and traditional cuisine to vibrant festivals such as the Nyege Nyege Festival and Uganda Martyrs Day, which attract tens of thousands of international visitors every year.

Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations at Namugongo on June 3, 2025

“Uganda is far more than gorilla trekking. It is an experience that touches the heart and tells a story. Every moment offers something special, from our people and culture to our natural wonders," said Nyende.

He described Uganda as “a cradle of culture, performance, food, and memories”, highlighting that the country’s appeal lies not only in its natural beauty, but also in its warm, welcoming people.

The roadshow, which travelled from Sydney to Perth and concluded in Melbourne, redefined Uganda’s image from being simply a destination for wildlife enthusiasts to one offering a holistic travel experience.

“We are a melting pot of 55 tribes, each offering unique cultural experiences,” said Nyende. “Our hospitality makes Uganda feel like home to visitors. From the historic Buganda Kingdom to the ancient Nyero Rock Paintings (pictured below), there is so much to discover.”

Penina Jacqueline Babirye from the Uganda Wildlife Authority highlighted active tourism experiences, such as walking and cycling safaris in Lake Mburo National Park, which allow visitors to get close to giraffes, buffaloes, and hundreds of bird species.

At the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (Entebbe Zoo), tourists can even spend a day as a zookeeper or veterinarian.

“You can feed and care for animals as part of a hands-on experience," said Babirye.

Richard Welch, Member of the Victorian Parliament for the North-Eastern Metropolitan Region, praised Uganda’s efforts to promote its attractions and strengthen cultural ties with Australia.

“The beauty and natural wonders of Uganda are to be shared and enjoyed by all. I look forward to helping grow awareness of what Uganda has to offer Australians. Building these ties will benefit both countries," said the legislator.

Bradford Ochieng, the deputy CEO of UTB, noted that Australia currently ranks 11th among countries sending visitors to Uganda, with most Australians staying more than 10 days on average.

“Australians already spend quality time in Uganda, but with more roadshows and awareness campaigns, we expect those numbers to grow,” he said.

Uganda’s High Commissioner to Australia, Dorothy Samalie Hyuha (pictured below), emphasised that tourism is rebounding strongly after the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Uganda is open again, and there is so much more to experience — from our landscapes and wildlife to our culture and cuisine,” she said.

Susan Tiisa Mugwanya, the counsellor in charge of tourism and culture at Uganda's foreign affairs ministry, has already organised several tours for Australian Catholic dioceses, which included pilgrimages to the Uganda Martyrs Shrine and visits to other cultural sites.

“Many of them loved their experiences so much that they have returned for repeat visits," she said.

Dorcas Wagima Okalany, the permanent secretary of Uganda's lands ministry, urged Australians to invest in tourism infrastructure.

“The government has set aside land for investors to develop hotels and lodges,” she said, and quipped: “And tourists must not miss the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha — who sometimes sit on the rocks and watch you instead!”

Her remarks were met with laughter and applause as the event concluded on a high note, with optimism for a new wave of Australian interest in Uganda’s diverse attractions.

Guests were treated to a dose of vibrant performances

UTB deputy CEO Bradford Ochieng (R) interacting with a guest