Adventure Travel Highlights Uganda

- Before the pandemic, tourism was Uganda's top foreign exchange earner, generating over $1.6 billion and contributing about 7.7% to the GDP. The sector has seen a strong recovery, with international visitor arrivals reaching 1.26 million in 2023, a 55% increase from 2022. - Uganda is home to approximately half of the world's endangered mountain gorilla population, making gorilla trekking a primary attraction for international visitors. Revenue from trekking permits is crucial for conservation efforts. - In addition to rappelling, activities at Sipi Falls include rock climbing on over 14 routes, mountain biking on the slopes of Mount Elgon, and exploring nearby caves. The main waterfall cliff used for abseiling is approximately 100 meters high. - The town of Jinja, located at the source of the Nile River, is known as Uganda's adventure capital, offering activities like white-water rafting with grade five rapids, bungee jumping, and kayaking. - Tourism directly and indirectly supports over 600,000 jobs in Uganda, benefiting tour guides, hotel staff, park rangers, and local artisans and farmers. - A significant portion of the revenue generated from tourism, particularly from park entry and permit fees, is reinvested into conservation and community development projects, including building schools and health centers. - The country's tourism marketing campaign, "Explore Uganda – The Pearl of Africa," aims to showcase its diverse attractions and warm hospitality to a global audience. - Uganda's location in the African Great Lakes region and its diverse landscapes, which occupy only 0.02% of the world's dry surface, support about 7% of the world's mammal species and 11% of its bird species.