Major Tourist Attractions in Eastern Uganda: Eastern Uganda is one of the biodiversity destination spots and the Capital of adventure activities in Uganda because of Jinja. With riveting places like Mbale, Jinja, Kapchorwa, Karamoja, and Tororo, the Eastern region is undeniably a tourist center. A carefully planned Uganda safari to this region will allow you to enjoy a handful of attractions and activities than you ever imagined. In no particular order, this list brings you some of the most captivating destinations that you can visit if you are planning a safari in Eastern Uganda.
List of the major tourist attractions in Eastern Uganda.
Busitema Forest
This small Forest is situated along Tororo-Busia Road and covers an area of 25 square kilometers. This Forest is home to several Primates species including the olive baboons, black and white Colobus monkeys, and vervet monkeys as well as bird species, a number of tree species, and rodents. If you are interested in a primate safari in Uganda, this is one of the best destinations that you can include in your travel itinerary. This fascinating forest is shared by three districts that include Tororo, Busia, and Bugiri, but Tororo takes the lion’s share. During your visit to this captivating forest, you will have a chance to participate in a number of activities such as wildlife viewing, bird watching, primate tracking, and guided nature walks among others.
Tororo rock
Tororo rock stands tall as a prominent tourist attraction that offers visitors a unique and exhilarating experience. This fascinating rock has an altitude of about 1,500 meters above sea level, this rocky outcrop is an ionic landmark that has become synonymous with the town of Tororo. This fascinating rock is also known for its exceptional panoramic views, the rock also offers visitors astonishing views of the surrounding landscape including the lush greenery of Tororo town, the stunning golden plains of eastern Uganda, and the shimmering water of lake Vitoria in the distance. The breathtaking scenery from the top of the rock is truly a sight to behold and provides a perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos and selfies.
For adventure travelers, hiking to the top of Tororo rock is a must do activity to do while on a Uganda safari in eastern Uganda. The hike itself is a challenging but rewarding experience, as visitors navigate steep and rocky terrain to reach the summit. During the hike, hikers can admire the diverse flora and fauna that dwell in the rock including rare plant species and colorful birds. The physical exertion is well worth it once you reach the top take in the stunning views that stretch out before you.
Mount Elgon National Park
Mount Elgon National Park is a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve located along the border between Uganda and Kenya. The park covers an area of 494 square miles and is one of the major tourist attractions in Eastern Uganda. A larger part (430 square miles) of the park is on the Ugandan side of the border. The Ugandan section was elevated from a forest reserve into a national park in 1992. The park derived its name from Mount Elgon which is a prominent physical feature in the park. Mount Elgon is an extinct volcano that erupted over twenty-four million years ago. It is the highest volcanic mountain in East Africa and the 8th highest mountain in Africa. Mount Elgon has the largest caldera in the world which is about 60 kilometers long and 40 kilometers wide. This particular Caldera is a result of magma getting drained from the bottom leading to the collapse of the cone. Scientists believe that at one point in time, Mount Elgon was the highest mountain in Africa before millions of years of erosion reduced its height substantially. Over 400 species of plants and 143 birds have been recorded. Half of Uganda’s species of butterflies are found in Mount Elgon National Park with the endangered Maathai’s Lonleg dragonfly discovered in 2000. The lower slopes of the mountains support a variety of mammals like black and white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, buffalos, elephants, red-tailed monkeys, spotted hyenas, Oribi and Defassa waterbuck among others.
Sipi falls
The Sipi Falls are arguably the most stunning waterfalls in Uganda. They are also one of the most visited tourist sites in eastern Uganda as well as one of the major tourist attractions in Eastern Uganda. The Sipi Falls consist of 3 waterfalls that are separated by steep hillsides in the District of Kapchorwa East of Uganda. The falls are found outside the boundary of Mount Elgon National Park. Rivers originating from Mount Elgon flow over narrow cliffs before falling with force at the foot of the mountain. Visitors on a Uganda safari in Sipi falls have a marvelous opportunity to participate in a number of thrilling activities including guided hiking up to the Sipi falls, coffee tours, photography, community visits, and abseiling among others. There are also some magnificent caves with can be visited around the Sipi falls.
Matheniko Wildlife Game Reserve
Matheniko Wildlife Reserve is located in the Moroto district in the northeastern part of Uganda, in the Karamoja sub-region. It covers an area of 1,620 square kilometers. Matheniko Game Reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife and plants. The reserve is named after the Matheniko Mountain Range, which dominates almost the landscape of the area. The Matheniko Mountain Range is an important watershed that provides water to the Kidepo Valley National Park and the people local community around Moroto, which is located to the north of the reserve. Matheniko Wildlife Reserve is home to a resident wildlife haven, including Elephants, Lions, Leopards, Hyenas, Buffaloes, Uganda Kobs, Oribis, Civet, Topi, Wild cats, Duikers, zebras, Giraffes, cheetahs, elands, Bright’s gazelle and several species of antelope among others. The reserve is also home to over 200 bird species, including the Eastern Bronze-napped Pigeon, the Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, the Mountain Yellow Warbler, Verreaux’s Eagle, the Egyptian Vulture the Thick-billed Honey guide, the Hartlaub’s Turaco, Ethiopian swallow among others. The largest number of animals and primates are Patas monkeys, Baboons and the Vervet monkeys. Reptiles include; Gackos, Chameleon, Puff adders, small Lizards, Large savannah monitor Lizards, Water Snakes, and the large rock Pythons among others
Mabira Forest
Mabira forest is a dense equatorial rainforest situated in the districts of Buikwe, lying between Jinja and Lugazi. The forest covers an area of about 120 square kilometers. this captivating forest is situated 20 km away from Jinja and about 54km from Kampala the capital city of Uganda and the largest town in Uganda. Mabira forest is home to about 311 different tree species with the forest centre consisting of vast ancient tree species which are over 70 years old. Mabira forest is also home to over 219 colorful bufferfly species, 300 birds, and over 97 moths. Among the birds include the Great blue turaco, black-billed turaco, ross’s turaco, bare-faced go-away- bird, eastern plantain-eater, and red-chested cuckoo among others. it is now smaller than its original size but still allows for great adventure and exciting activities for those who love nature.
Source of the river Nile.
The source of the river Nile is highly a popular tourist attraction and activity. jinja offers various astonishing viewpoints that provide a remarkable view of the vast area where the Nile’s journey commences from. Tourists have the opportunity to converge on water sources and even hop aboard a boat to get up close and personal with this historical and geographical starting point. The source of the river Nile was discovered by an explorer called John Spek and visiting this magnificent site offers visitors a wide range of activities such as boat rides, kayaking, horse riding, quad biking, cycling, bungee jumping, tubing on the Nile among others.
Soroti Rock
Soroti Rock is one of the attractions found in Soroti. Hit on in the eastern part of the country, this emblematic rock formation grants visitors a unique and panoramic natural environment. Soroti Rock provides an extraordinary spectacular view of the surrounding area. The rock is composed of granite, giving it a distinct appearance that attracts both nature lovers and adventure seekers. The accessibility of this rock makes it easy for visitors to explore. Visitors can hike to the top of the rock, following well-defined trails that wind their way through lush vegetation. Along the way, visitors might spot various species of birds and wildlife, adding to the charm of the experience.
Nyero Rock Paintings
Nyero Rock Paintings is one of the greatest attractions in the region a visitor on his way to Soroti town must visit the site. The site preserves the Teso cultural meaning and symbols of the tradition and also grants exceptional view into ancient African rock art pinpointed roughly 5 kilometers from the town of Soroti, the rock art at Nyero consists of three main panels, each showcasing different patterns, symbols, and figures. These paintings were created using a combination of ochre, charcoal, and other natural pigments and provide a valuable cultural and historical record. Visitors to Nyero Rock Paintings will have the opportunity to explore the site and view these impressive artworks up close. The surrounding landscape adds to the glamor of Nyero Rock Paintings, with beautiful savannas and stunning rock formations providing a panoramic backdrop. Visitors can also take advantage of the serene environment by enjoying a picnic or taking a stroll around the rock,
Lake Bisina
Lake Bisina is pinpointed near a fascinating town situated in eastern Uganda. This scenic lake is equivalent to 30 kilometers from Soroti town, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. Lake Bisina is renowned for its emblematic beauty and harmonious atmosphere making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventurers. The lake spans over 12 square kilometers and is surrounded by luscious foliage and rolling hills, providing visitors with a truly enthralling view. Wildlife. The lake is home to a wide array of bird species. Visitors can spot various aquatic bird species such as Marabou storks, African Jacanas, Pied kingfishers, and Black Crakes. The best time to visit for birdwatching is during the dry season when the water levels recede, allowing the birds to thrive.
Itanda Falls
Itanda Falls on the Nile River is a hidden treasure that is a must see. Known to kayakers and rafters, including Prince William of Great Britain, this stretch of the Nile is what eluded many visiting Uganda for a long time. Itanda Falls are also found on the Nile, 18 kilometers northwest of Jinja city. The falls offer opportunities for bird watching such as weaver birds, white-water rafting, kayaking, camping and other water sports activities. Visitors to Itanda Falls can also enjoy the tranquil and astonishing surroundings, taking in the lush greenery and diverse flora and fauna of the area. Picnic areas and viewing platforms offer the perfect vantage point to soak in the beauty of the falls and capture magnificent photos of the cascading waters and astonishing landscape.
This concludes the major tourist attractions in Eastern Uganda
