Where to spend your holiday getaway 

The festive holiday season is here. Both families and individuals are considering where to spend their time. As the holidays set in, travelers can explore new destinations and create unforgettable memories.

Whether you seek exhilarating adventures, peaceful retreats, or deep cultural immersion, the globe has extraordinary destinations that promise lasting memories and awaken your dreams.

 Imagine majestic peaks and marvelous national parks casting formidable shadows over serene valleys, or pristine beaches like those in Kalangala? 

No matter the destination, every journey inspires you to go beyond the familiar, to discover the breathtaking beauty and hidden gems of the world. In this article, we journey through iconic destinations that have long enchanted travelers, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and imaginations of those who venture there.

These places are not just landmarks; they embody living stories filled with rich history, vibrant cultures, and stunning natural landscapes.

In Uganda’s case, it is a magnificent canvas of colours, sounds, and experiences, ready to captivate adventurous travelers. Known as the "Pearl of Africa," Uganda offers an array of exhilarating landscapes and vibrant cultures that invigorate the spirit and create lasting memories. 

As 2024 folds, and the air thickens with holiday cheer, there is no better time to embark on a voyage of exploration. 
Gessa Simplicious, the head of public relations at the Uganda Tourism Board, notes that Uganda offers a comprehensive range of activities for holidaymakers. This variety caters to all types of travelers, whether families, solo adventurers, or thrill-seekers. 

National parks
Gessa says most holidays in Uganda are family-oriented. Visitors often enjoy the sights and sounds of national parks renowned for their wildlife, such as Kidepo, Murchison Falls, and Queen Elizabeth National Park. 

These locations provide a rich experience with diverse wildlife, complemented by facilities that enable families to enjoy the attractions while remaining in peaceful and relaxing surroundings.

Both Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls offer numerous lodging options, both within the parks and in the nearby districts. These accommodations are family-friendly and budget-conscious.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park 
Embarking on a gorilla trekking adventure at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers a rare glimpse into the lives of these gentle giants in their natural habitat. The dense forest echoes with the sounds of wildlife, invite you to become one with nature. 

Queen Elizabeth National Park
This is where the sprawling savannas, tranquil waterways, and volcanic landscapes create a playground for wildlife enthusiasts. Join a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, where you can witness elephants, hippos, and an array of bird species, each scene more breathtaking than the last. The iconic tree-climbing lions of Ishasha will leave you in awe as nature's wonders are on full display.

Jinja
For adventure enthusiasts, Jinja, Kapchorwa, Sipi Falls, and mountainous areas provide a variety of activities. Visitors can explore the falls and nearby Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve. Jinja, in particular, offers a wide range of solo and group activities, including white-water rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping and biking. 

Beach enthusiasts
Kalangala is another destination where visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches without the need to travel to Mombasa. 
“Kalangala offers a more affordable getaway where you can enjoy white sandy beaches and the peaceful atmosphere, which is ideal for family time,” Gessa explains. 

He quickly notes that unlike other locations, Uganda's destinations provide a 360-degree experience, ensuring there is always something for everyone, depending on individual preferences. 

Cultural experience
 For those interested in cultural experiences, places like EWAFFE offer traditional meals. Simultaneously, the Buganda Cultural Heritage site provides a comprehensive package for family outings saving families the trouble of cooking while delivering a rewarding experience. 

Additionally, settlements in Karamoja and Moroto cater to diverse interests. 
Gessa encourages Ugandans to set clear expectations for their family trips and plan accordingly, as there is always something for everyone in Uganda.

Ankole cow products
Herbert Byaruhanga, managing director of Bird Uganda Safaris, emphasizes that cultural experiences are a top priority for many travelers today. 

He believes exploring cultural heritage products especially appeals to urban dwellers and those from other parts of the world, particularly families who may want to teach their children about their cultural values. 

For instance, learning how to milk a cow can be an exciting and educational activity for domestic tourists, as Byaruhanga points out. 

Ugandans should take a break from their daily routines and computers to explore local cultural sites and international parks. 
"Get out there and enjoy stress-free environments. This is particularly important as international travelers seek to experience the rich cultural landscape of Africa,” he says. 
 Byaruhanga highlights Uganda's unique position as a meeting point for various ecological zones of Africa. 

“Both residents and visitors should take advantage of this diversity by extending their stay to appreciate the excitement that Uganda has to offer. Whether they are expatriates living in Uganda or tourists planning their visit, there is much to discover in the heart of Africa,” he elucidates. 

Hospitality
Ms Jean Byamugisha, the executive director, Uganda Hotel Owners Association (UHOA), calls for a shift in mindset among Ugandans in prioritising local tourism and exploring the country's own rich cultural and natural heritage.  
“There is a need for a  shift in the mindset of Ugandans away from traveling abroad or returning to their villages but rather promote domestic tourism, particularly to national parks, during this holiday period,”Byamugisha says. 
Currently, hotels are experiencing high occupancy rates due to the holiday season; something that is advocating for increased domestic tourism. 

She urges hotel owners, especially those in national parks and other touristic regions, to set their prices in Ugandan shillings to make it more affordable for local visitors. 

Byamugisha notes that while she is currently in Mombasa, where many Kenyans are enjoying family holidays, she hopes to see more Ugandans engaging with their own country. Although all regions in Uganda are popular, she highlights national parks as an underappreciated gem which Ugandans can take advantage of. 

Reflecting on the importance of travel within Uganda, Byamugisha recalls how her parents used to traverse the country, moving from Western Uganda to Northern Uganda for school or work. 

Byamugisha encourages tourists to discover new attractions, such as the recently developed hotels in Hoima and the upcoming airport facilities in the area.
She describes Uganda as an "ocean basket of opportunities" and urges everyone to explore the country fully.
Byamugisha hopes Ugandans support their local tourism industry, particularly during this festive period, and pursue domestic tourism rather than solely focusing on international destinations.