3 UNESCO World Heritage Sights in Uganda

When thinking of a Uganda safari, gorilla trekking springs immediately to mind. However there is more to discover on a holiday to this fascinating country. Uganda has three sites with UNESCO World Heritage status, two are natural listings - the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Rwenzori Mountains National Parks, and one is a cultural listing - the Tombs of Buganda Kings at Kasubi. Furthermore, there are five more locations that are on the tentative list - making Uganda a fascinating destination for safari holidays with a difference.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park- Located in south-western Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest was given UNESCO World Heritage listing in 2004. This park is known for its biodiversity with a wide range of endemic species of flora and fauna, and it is also home to almost half of the remaining mountain gorilla - a species that is critically endangered. As the home of the mountain gorilla, Bwindi receives many visitors each year who are on a Uganda safari. However if you choose your safari holidays in this part of Uganda, don't miss out on discovering other areas of the forest including sightings of over 347 species of forest birds and other animals including chimpanzee, elephant, the colourful Shelley's crimson-wing (species of bird) and numerous butterflies.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park- An alternative park that is worth visiting on Uganda safari holidays is the Rwenzori Mountains National Park in western Uganda, home to Africa's third highest peak, Mount Margherita, as well as many glaciers, waterfalls and lakes. This park was listed with UNESCO in 2004 due to its significance as the home of some of the richest mountain flora in Africa. With the combination of constant temperatures, humidity and high isolation, there is a wide variety of species including 'Africa's botanical big game' - giant lobelias, groundsels and heathers.

Tombs of Buganda at Kasubi- A more unusual entry to the UNESCO World Heritage List, these tombs cover an area of almost 30 hectares of hillside in the Kampala district and were listed in 2001. The site is used for frequent rituals and is the most religious place for Baganda culture. In addition, the large thatched building in the centre houses the tombs for the previous four kings (Kabakas), making it the best example of a Baganda palace and burial site existing today. The main tomb building is circular in shape and topped with a dome featuring outstanding detail and a similar building has been in this place since the 13th Century. These structures, and the associated traditional practices, depict a continuity of living tradition and the site serves as an important cultural symbol, not only for Uganda but for East Africa as a whole.

So when planning your Uganda safari, make sure to include at least one of these UNESCO World Heritage sites - they are sure to make your safari holiday that little bit different.