Uganda is a country of unique and fascinating history, and Ameera Africa Safaris is a great way to uncover the stories and legends tied to the country’s historic landmarks. From pre-colonial sites to areas with gruesome history, there are many places to discover and explore. When planning your day trips, be sure to consider visiting the following iconic landmarks; each with its own special story to tell.
Independence Monument
The Independence Monument is a powerful reminder of Uganda’s struggle and walk to independence. Located in the city center on Speke road, the monument stands 6 meters high and is an awe-inspiring sight of a man holding a child up to the sky, signifying the new era of independence. Constructed by the British colonial government just before Uganda’s first independence in 1962, the monument is a must-see for anyone embarking on a day tour of Kampala. Standing before this powerful symbol can be a humbling and emotional experience.
Bar-lonyo massacre grave
The Bar-lonyo Massacre Graves are a heartbreaking memorial found in the small village of Barlonyo near Lira in northern Uganda. Visiting this site is an emotional experience as visitors get to hear about the 20-year-long war waged by the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) under the leadership of Joseph Kony and the estimated 500 people who lost their lives in the conflict. The graves are 70m long and V-shaped, used by the locals as a seat from which they tell stories of watching their loved ones being beheaded, burned alive, and gang-raped. Even as a detour from a tour of northern Uganda, this historic site is an eye-opening visit.
Makerere University
With a location directly on the Equator, Uganda has several landmarks marked as equator crossings. These cities that straddle the 0° latitude are popular tourist spots, and Ameera Africa Safaris takes visitors over to explore the sites. Two special locations are Kayabwe and Lake Victoria. At the equator point, it is easy to understand why the country is affected by two different climates in the Northern and Southern hemisphere at the same time. Make sure to take a camera to take pictures of this unforgettable experience!
Speke Monument
The Speke Monument stands as a tribute to John Hannington Speke and his journey to discover the Source of the Nile in the early 1850s. The journey was harder than they had expected, leaving Speke to complete the mission on his own, successfully finding the source of the river that burst forth from the northern tip of Lake Victoria. The Speke Monument is located on the western bank of the Nile at the Source of the Nile in Jinja, and its presence provides visitors with a sense of the British explorer’s incredible mission. With a visit to the monument, you can appreciate the historic accomplishment of Speke’s journey.
Fort-Patiko-Baker’s fort
Fort Patiko, located around an hour outside of Gulu in northern Uganda, is a historic site with a dark past. This area was used as a slave market, where Arab traders would gather slaves from northern Uganda and inspect them for a journey on foot to Egypt. The unfortunate souls deemed unfit were massacred, and it was not until the 1870s that British forces, under the leadership of Sir Samuel Baker, seized the area and built Fort Patiko. The original fort has since been reduced to ruins, but a visit to this site is still an important reminder of Uganda’s history and eventual independence.
Kasubi tombs
The Kasubi Tombs are a highly respected site located 6 kilometers outside of Kampala City in the district of Mengo and Rubaga. These tombs are significant to the Buganda Kingdom, as they are the burial place of four of the Kings (or Kabakas) of the kingdom. It is claimed that ancient Buganda rituals have been carried out in this same spot for centuries, adding to the site’s rich cultural and historical significance. The tombs also contain various treasures and artifacts of the Buganda Kingdom, making them a fascinating place to explore.
Namugongo Shrine
The Namugongo Martyrs Shrine is one of Uganda’s most visited and well known sites, filled with historical significance. It was here that 22 Catholic Christian converts, known as the Uganda Martyrs, lost their lives at the orders of Buganda King, Kabaka Mwanga II, in 1886. In remembrance of the martyrs, both the Roman Catholic Church Christians and the Church of Uganda have built tourist shrines on the site. Every 3rd of June, pilgrimages are held here to commemorate the loss of the Uganda Martyrs and remember their faith and courage.
Nyero Rock Paintings
Nyero Rock Paintings are a remarkable sight to behold, and are located 8 kilometers west of Kumi Town on the Ngora Road in Eastern Uganda. This Iron Age stone site has three rock shelters, with the paintings depicting animals, canoes, and concentric circles. It is believed that the Nyero paintings were created by the early settlers of the area, making it a culturally significant site.
Exploring this site is a great way to get a glimpse of a bygone era.lling before setting out. In addition, it is also important to be aware of the local regulations, laws and respect the country’s wildlife. All in all, sport fishing in Uganda can be an exhilarating and unique experience, with plenty of possibilities to catch big gamefish, including the Nile Perch and Tiger Fish.
Wamala Tombs
The Wamala Tombs are a remarkable historic site situated atop a hill with beautiful scenery. This is the grave of the Kabaka Suuna II, the Buganda King who ruled the Buganda Kingdom in the mid 19th century, and the first to allow outside traders into the region. He is said to have had more than 148 wives and 218 children. The Wamala Tomb is steeped in history and is a unique and magical place to visit.
Baha’i Temple
The Baha’i Temple in Uganda is the only one of its kind in all of Africa, with its magnificent hilltop building offering spectacular views over Kampala City. This temple is a beacon of unity in humanity, and its teachings focus on human rights and values. The temple, which has a capacity of 400 people and is the tallest building in Uganda and the East African region, is surrounded by beautiful flowers, trees and well-maintained lawns. Tourists and visitors can use this temple as a peaceful retreat for picnics, relaxation and photography, or to learn more about the Baha’i faith through the Sunday prayers. Entrance to the facility is free.
Conclusion
Exploring Uganda’s distinctive historical and natural landmarks is an amazing experience and an opportunity to appreciate and learn more about the country. From visiting monuments that commemorate a nation’s achievement of independence, to exploring ancient temple sites and ruins, to witnessing natural wonder and diversity, Uganda has much to offer. Whether you are an intrepid explorer, an outdoor enthusiast, or a curious history buff, Uganda’s unique attractions will leave you with a greater appreciation for its culture and beauty.
