1 DAY TOUR AT UGANDA MUSEUM TOUR

Found in the heart of Kampala, Uganda’s capital city, the Uganda Museum is the oldest museum in East Africa, established in 1908 by the British colonial government. It offers a rich array of Uganda’s cultural heritage, showcasing a wide range of historical artifacts, ethnographic collections, and natural history exhibits. The museum serves as a vital repository of Uganda’s past, providing insight into the country’s diverse cultures, traditions, and historical milestones.

The Uganda Museum was founded following the establishment of the Uganda Society in 1908. Initially, the collection was housed in a small room at the Kampala Technical Institute (now part of Makerere University). It moved to its current location on Kitante Hill in 1954. The museum’s mission has always been to preserve and display Uganda’s cultural heritage, educating both locals and visitors about the country’s rich history and diverse cultures.

Tourist Attractions

Ethnographic Exhibits

The ethnographic section is one of the most popular attractions in the Uganda Museum. It features an extensive collection of artifacts from Uganda’s various ethnic groups, including traditional musical instruments, clothing, weapons, and tools. Highlights include:

• • Traditional Musical Instruments: The museum boasts a vast array of traditional Ugandan instruments such as drums, stringed instruments (like the endingidi and adungu), and wind instruments.

• • Cultural Attire: Exhibits showcase the traditional attire of different ethnic groups, reflecting Uganda’s diverse cultural tapestry.

• • Household Items: Tools and utensils used in daily life, offering a glimpse into the domestic life of Uganda’s various communities.

Historical Exhibits

The historical section provides a chronological narrative of Uganda’s past, from pre-colonial times through to independence and beyond. Key exhibits include:

• • Ancient Artifacts: Items such as pottery, tools, and weapons that date back to pre-colonial times.

• • Colonial History: Displays detailing the colonial period, including the impact of British rule on Uganda’s political, social, and economic structures.

• • Independence Movement: Exhibits focusing on the struggle for independence, featuring photographs, documents, and personal items of key figures in Uganda’s fight for sovereignty.

Natural History Section

This section of the museum is dedicated to Uganda’s rich biodiversity. It includes:

• • Geological Exhibits: A collection of rocks and minerals, including fossils that provide insight into the geological history of the region.

• • Paleontological Displays: Fossils of prehistoric animals, showcasing the ancient wildlife that once roamed Uganda.

• • Botanical and Zoological Exhibits: Displays of preserved plant and animal specimens, highlighting Uganda’s diverse flora and fauna.

Technological and Science Exhibits

The Uganda Museum also features exhibits on traditional and modern technology, showcasing the ingenuity and innovation of the Ugandan people. This includes:

• • Traditional Technologies: Displays of ancient tools and techniques used in agriculture, hunting, and crafts.

• • Modern Innovations: Exhibits on contemporary technological advancements and scientific discoveries in Uganda.

Cultural Village

Outside the main museum building, the cultural village is a recreated traditional homestead, featuring huts and structures from various Ugandan ethnic groups. This interactive exhibit provides visitors with a hands-on experience of traditional Ugandan life, including:

• • Huts and Homesteads: Authentic reconstructions of traditional dwellings from different regions.

• • Demonstrations: Live demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as pottery, weaving, and blacksmithing.

Educational Programs and Activities

The Uganda Museum offers a variety of educational programs aimed at schools, researchers, and the general public. These include guided tours, workshops, and lectures on various aspects of Ugandan history and culture. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year, providing a dynamic and engaging experience for visitors.

The Uganda Museum plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Uganda’s cultural heritage.

It serves as a center for research and education, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of Uganda’s rich history and diverse cultures. The museum also contributes to national identity and pride, helping Ugandans connect with their past and appreciate their cultural diversity.

Visitor Information

The Uganda Museum is located on Kira Road in Kampala, easily accessible by public and private transport. It is open to the public from Monday to Saturday for both local and international visitors.

Starting from US$35 Per Person