Uganda Fun Facts: 25 Interesting Things to Know About the Pearl of Africa

Uganda is a small country with outsized natural riches: mountain gorillas, the source of the Nile, snow-capped peaks on the equator and over 1,000 bird species. Here are facts travellers enjoy.

For full guides, see Uganda facts and travel information, why Uganda is the Pearl of Africa and tourist attractions in Uganda.

This guide is part of our Uganda facts and travel information guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Uganda safaris and tours.

Nature Facts

• Roughly half of the world's mountain gorillas live in Bwindi.
• The Nile starts its journey north near Jinja.
• The equator crosses southern Uganda.
• Uganda has over 1,000 bird species and more than 340 mammal species.
• The Rwenzori Mountains hold glaciers on the equator.

People and Culture Facts

• Uganda has more than 50 ethnic groups.
• English and Swahili are official languages; Luganda is widely spoken.
• The population is one of the youngest in the world.
• Matooke (steamed plantain) is a staple food, and the rolex (egg rolled in chapati) is a famous street snack.

Symbols

The grey crowned crane and the Uganda kob appear on the coat of arms; see the flag and national symbols and the grey crowned crane.

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Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team