Uganda showcases ‘big seven’ cultural riches at Africa Travel Indaba

Uganda’s vibrant presence at the ongoing Africa Travel Indaba 2025 in Durban, South Africa, is attracting enthusiastic attention from tour operators, potential tourists, and investors alike.

The Uganda stall has become a hub of interest, with visitors eager to learn about the country’s offerings in faith tourism, birdwatching, cultural experiences, and adventure activities.

Representatives from the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), and 20 participating tour operators are leveraging the platform to showcase Uganda’s rich and diverse tourism products as well as its investment potential.

They are promoting the country as an irresistible travel destination with attractive incentives for investors.

This surge in attention comes at a time when intra-African travel is increasing. Countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa are now rivalling traditional source markets, highlighting a growing trend of Africans exploring the continent.

In her keynote address, South Africa’s minister of tourism, Patricia de Lille, emphasised the transformative role of artificial intelligence in the tourism sector.

"With peace, solid infrastructure, and product development tailored to evolving tourist demands, Africa can become the world's most compelling destination," she said.

"Success lies in collaboration - pooling our resources and talents to present Africa as one unified, irresistible destination."

Representatives from the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), and 20 participating tour operators are leveraging the platform to showcase Uganda’s rich and diverse tourism products as well as its investment potential. (Courtesy Photo)

More than 4,000 participants attended the Indaba opening ceremony, bringing smiles to Durban’s hospitality industry – from hoteliers to drivers and interpreters.

"Uganda is unique," said Doreen Katusiime, permanent secretary in Uganda’s Ministry of Tourism. “We boast the ‘Big Seven’ – adding mountain gorillas and chimpanzees to the classic Big Five: lions, giraffes, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo. Couple this with our rich cultural diversity, sports tourism, adventure experiences, and diverse cuisines – Uganda offers a complete package.”

Alongside the UTB were tour operators, hoteliers, and guides, all promoting Destination Uganda. Robert Ntale, director of Cheetah Safaris, expressed optimism about tourism’s rebound post-COVID-19.

"It’s time Africa rediscovered itself – its shared heritage and its unique differences," Ntale said. “Our languages, attire, and histories speak of what has been shaped over time by politics, rivalry, and growth.”

Markus Schroeder of Wild Places highlighted a growing trend among travellers: the desire for exclusive, intimate experiences away from over-touristed locations.

“Travellers today want personalised attention,” said Schroeder. “And in Uganda, hospitality is ingrained. From the moment you arrive, you're met with a warm ‘Karibu’ and a genuine smile. What follows is a feast of experiences – from encounters with Mountain Gorillas to tasting traditional dishes.”

Uganda shared the exhibition space with fellow African destinations, including Kenya, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Namibia, and Zambia – each showcasing the richness of African tourism and the continent’s growing unity in marketing itself to the world.