A country of many peoples
Uganda is home to more than 50 ethnic groups and languages. English is the official language with Swahili, and Luganda — the language of the Baganda, the largest group — is widely spoken around Kampala. Several traditional kingdoms survive in a cultural role, the best known being the Buganda Kingdom, whose king, the Kabaka, has his palace (the Lubiri) in Kampala. Most Ugandans are Christian, with a large Muslim community. Visitors are often struck by how warm and welcoming people are.
Peoples you may meet
- The Batwa — forest people of the Bwindi and Mgahinga area, who share their traditions through community-led experiences. See our Bwindi guide.
- The Bakiga — farmers of the steep, terraced hills of the south-west around Lake Bunyonyi.
- The Banyankole — cattle keepers famous for their long-horned Ankole cattle, around Lake Mburo.
- The Batooro — of the Fort Portal area near Kibale, with their own kingdom.
- The Karamojong — pastoralists of the north-east, near Kidepo.
Greetings and etiquette
- Greet people warmly before anything else — long greetings are part of good manners.
- Use your right hand to give and receive; a handshake is common.
- Show respect to elders.
- Dress modestly in towns and villages.
- Ask before photographing people.
Visiting communities respectfully
Community visits are some of the most memorable parts of a Uganda trip: the Bigodi community walk near Kibale, the Batwa experience near Bwindi, village and farm visits, and the Buganda palace in Kampala. Our 7-day primates trip includes a community and farm stay. Buy crafts directly from the makers, and don't give money or sweets to children.
Food to try
- Matoke — steamed and mashed green bananas, Uganda's best-known staple.
- Luwombo — chicken, beef or groundnut stew steamed in banana leaves, a Buganda speciality.
- Groundnut sauce — a rich peanut stew served with matoke or posho (maize porridge).
- The "rolex" — a chapati rolled with an omelette and vegetables; Uganda's favourite street food (the name comes from "rolled eggs").
- Nile perch and tilapia — fresh fish from Lake Victoria.
- Muchomo — grilled meat skewers.
- Tropical fruit — pineapples, mangoes, passion fruit and many kinds of banana.
Drinks
Uganda grows excellent coffee and tea — try a coffee or tea plantation visit. Fresh juices are everywhere, and local beers are widely available.
Eating on safari
Lodges serve a mix of international and Ugandan dishes, with packed lunches on trekking days. Tell us about dietary needs when you book so they can be arranged with your lodges. Drink bottled or filtered water.
