The regions of Uganda are known as Central, Western, Eastern, and Northern. These four regions are in turn divided into districts. The national government interacts directly with the districts, so regions do not have any definite role in administration. Under British rule before 1962, the regions were functional administrative units and were called provinces, headed by a Provincial Commissioner. The central region is the kingdom of Buganda, which then had a semi-autonomous government headed by the Kabaka (king).
Key Attractions in Northern Uganda
Northern Uganda boasts a range of attractions for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Here are some notable destinations:
- Kidepo Valley National Park - located in the extreme NE corner of Uganda on the Sudan border.
- Murchison Falls National Park - offers a very nice boat trip getting surrounded by crocodiles and hippos.
- Ajai Game Reserve - boasts a deluxe safari camp under construction just outside its borders.
Murchison Falls National Park is particularly renowned. The nearby waterfall is dramatic and beautiful, as the entire Nile River plunges down 45 m (150 ft) and through a 7 m (23 ft) wide crevice. It is possible to do safaris - Murchison is full of a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, hartbeast, buffalo, and a few lions and leopards.
Transportation Challenges
It is still a little bit difficult to get as independent traveller. Take an early bus to Masindi and then try to arrange for transport to bring you to the park. Air travel is possible to a few destinations, including Arua, Pader and Gulu. Only Eagle Air has scheduled flights, and has been reducing its service.
The roads in the north are generally rough. In the rainy season sections may become muddy and bridges may flood or collapse. Inspect any rental vehicle before taking it into the bush. Ensure that the tires -- including the spare -- are not too worn. Two spares are better than one, and a jack and wheel spanner are easily forgotten. Four-wheel drive is mandatory, and if you anticipate any mud, insist on a vehicle with a locking differential. Many Kampala-based drivers are unfamiliar with the north.
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Murchison Falls Full Safari Experience 🇺🇬 | Wildest Adventure in Uganda’s Game Park!
Additional Information
A rail line once reached from Mombasa to Arua. Posho (aka ugali, white maize/corn mush) and beans are the local staple. Africa's biggest killer, the malaria-bearing mosquito, is more prevalent in the north.
In 2002, approximately 3 million people, or 12 percent of the country's population, lived in urban areas.
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