Ecological diversity and Toursim

Uganda is home to a wide range of ecological diversity and serves as an important habitat for a host of species. For example, Uganda is home to 11% of the world's bird population as well as 6.8% of the world's butterfly species. The natural habitats for these animals include the savannahs of Uganda and the Rwenzori Mountains. Another important habitat is the base of Mt. Elgon, where the forests are home to over 300 bird species and 24 mammal species (including elephants, leopards, buffalos, and bush pigs). However, the most famous animals of Uganda are the Mountain Gorillas and chimpanzees. There are only 900 mountain gorillas in existence, and 400 exist in Uganda.

For these reasons eco-tourism, which is visiting areas where the flora, fauna, and cultural heritage are the primary attractions, is very popular in Uganda. We will also be participating in eco-tourism when we visit Murchison Falls National Park. Have you ever participated in eco-tourism? What do you see as the benefits? What do you see as the drawbacks?