The EAC integration agenda calls for sharing of cultural, political and social spaces and promoting East Africa as a single tourism destination. East Africa is a rich and endowed region with iconic tourist attractions ranging from the scenic views, wildlife species, landscape and vast adventure activities, making it a key tourist destination in Africa. The region is a tourism hub in Africa because of a number of attractions that can be found in the different countries of the Region.
Burundi: Geographically, at the heart of Africa, Burundi’s beautiful landscape, great national parks and lush forests are an ideal destination. The drummers of Burundi produce a hypnotic and unique sound sure to stay in the hearts of the listeners. Burundi is home to the longest freshwater lake in the world (Lake Tanganyika and the source of the Nile. Walking around the country’s living museum in Bujumbura and the beautiful Karera falls is an enriching experience.
Kenya amazes all who visit with its variety of Safaris and coastal treasures. Safari lovers can experience the thrill of wildebeest thundering across the savanna in Maasai Mara, come eye – to – eye with elephants in Amboseli, or witness the magnificent flamingos in Lake Nakuru. You can dive in fish – rich coral reefs, relax on pearly beaches, experience the melting pot of cultures and cuisines, and explore tropical islands. You can adventure in ice skating, go karting, scuba diving, kite surfing and stand – up paddle boarding.
Rwanda, also known as the cleanest country in Africa will leave you fascinated with its beautiful, modern and green driven city, Kigali. The country offers Mountain Gorillas trekking experiences, and nature lovers can tour national parks or get a bird’s – eye view of a forest from a canopy walk. While in Rwanda, you also get to learn about the events of the Genocide and get marveled by the captivating exhibit of traditional customs and beliefs at Rwanda’s Ethnographic Museum.
South Sudan, the newest country in the world is filled with a myriad of colorful tribes, culture and raw natural beauty. It boasts of diverse wildlife in the national parks and game reserves. Every year over a million antelopes migrate across Boma National Park creating an astonishing spectacle. The longest river in the world is an impressive sight when illuminated by the sunset. Tourists can enjoy local wrestling matches or appreciate the largest cattle camp in the world.
Uganda: As the Pearl of Africa, Uganda is endowed with breathtaking scenery, fascinating culture, snow peaked mountains and astounding wildlife spread across the country’s national parks with over 350 mammals, and 1000 bird species. The country is home to the longest river, largest lake in Africa and three World Heritage Sites: Home of Mountain Gorillas, Mountains of the Moon and Kasubi Tombs. The City of Kampala also offers a thrilling experience with its busy markets, temples, museums and restaurants.
Tanzania: In Tanzania, you can enjoy trekking and climbing experiences on Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest Peak in Africa, and get marveled by the country’s beautiful beaches and vast coastline. Zanzibar will submerge you in its turquoise – blue water, underwater adventures and historical centers. The country creates breath – taking feelings through the wildlife and is famed for its grand annual wildebeest migration. Get reveled by the earliest evidence of mankind existence of Oldupai Gorge and the wealth of history it creates.
Democratic Republic of Congo: The EAC” newest member, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is set to open up new frontiers and unique opportunities for discovery in tourism product offerings. These range from wildlife reserves, indigenous cultures and geological wonders not easily found elsewhere in Africa. DRC hosts Africa’s largest expanse of tropical forest that includes seven (7) national parks and 57 reserves areas with huge potential for ecotourism. DRC has four endemic species including Mountain Gorillas, Okapi (Forest giraffe), Bonobos and the Congolese peacock. DRC’S scenery is punctuated by volcanic mountains and gushing rivers including the Congo River which is the second largest in Africa.
WHERE TO STAY IN EAST AFRICA (ACCOMMODATION)
There are varied accommodation facilities in East Africa ranging from town hotels, beaches, hotels, lodges, tented camps, motels, villas, cottages and self – serviced apartments. To ensure that guests experience excellent and high – quality services across the region, the East African Community has developed a common standardization scheme for hotels and restaurants. This has seen a number of accommodation facilities classified from one to five stars which tell visitors what to expect right from the time they are planning or booking their trip.
