Uganda expedition overview

Uganda lies at the heart of Africa. Flanked by the eastern and western forks of the Great Rift Valley, it is the meeting point of the east African Savannah, west African rainforest and semi arid desert of the Sahel belt. Uganda green and lush; the country is dominated by lakes, the largest being Lake Victoria. The Ruwenzori Mountains, which were created by uplift, and rise to 5,109m (Mount Stanley), lie along Uganda's western border beside the eastern side of the Rift. Mount Elgon, Uganda's other major peak lies on the eastern side of the country. Uganda has many National Parks that are home to a wide variety of animals including: lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant and buffalo. It also boasts one of the few populations of mountain gorilla, chimpanzees and a multitude of birds.

The Ugandans themselves are among the friendliest and most welcoming in Africa. Uganda is not a large country by African standards and much of its charm lies in its intimacy and compactness. It is a beautiful country and has a great deal to offer any visitor. .

Expedition highlights

• Learn about local history on day treks in the foothills of the Ruwenzori Mountains
• Go chimp trekking in the Kyambura Gorge
• Get up early to spot tree-climbing lions at Ishasha River Camp
• Enjoy the local fare of matoke and goat stew
• Spend time with the children on your project phase learning about local culture

Things to know

• Everywhere you go people want to sing local songs and perform local dances for you - it's a good idea to have something prepared to perform in return!
• The flag of Uganda was adopted in 1962 and features a crested crane. The crested crane, the national bird of Uganda, adorns the centre of the flag and stands on one leg facing the flag pole. The raised leg symbolises that Uganda is not stationary but moving forward.