“The tourism future we really want.”

Sustainable tourism is no longer enough. The people of Karamoja have embraced regenerative tourism to create a better world through travel.

Since tourism in Uganda’s Karamoja sub-region is still in its infancy, it is incredibly important to raise awareness and to set expectations and guidelines now.

Karamoja is the first place in East Africa where the host community wrote a Travel Manifesto and ask visitors to take a pledge.

Honour your hosts and our common heritage

Research your destination to learn about local customs, traditions and social conditions. It’s a great way to build understanding of the local community and excitement for your adventure ahead.

Learn to speak a few words in the local language. This can help you connect with the local community and its people in a more meaningful way.

NgaKarimojong

• Ejoka?: How are you?
• Ejok: I’m fine / It’s okay
• Ejok nooi: I’m very fine / It’s okay
• Wadio wadio: Slowly slowly
• Thank you (very much): Alakara (nooi)

NgaTepeth

• Ru?: How are you?
• Nade: I’m fine / It’s okay
• Nade kolong: I’m very fine / It’s okay
• Nacham: Confirmed / Agreed

Pokot

• Poghsio: Hello!
• Lenteneana: How are you?
• Karam (nyoman): I’m fine / It’s okay
• Karibu: You’re welcome
• Kariama: Goodbye

KiSwahili

• Habari gani?: How are you?
• Mzuri (sana): I’m (very) fine
• Karibu: You’re welcome
• Pole pole: Slowly slowly
• Hakuna matata: No problem
• Asante sana: Thank you

Experience and respect all that makes an international destination different and unique, from its history, architecture, religion, dress and communication codes, to its music, art and cuisine.

Always ask before taking photographs of other people as their privacy matter as much as yours.

Protect our planet

Reduce your environmental impact by being a guardian of natural resources, especially forests and wetlands. Respect wildlife and their natural habitats. Purchase products that aren’t made using endangered plants or animals. In protected areas, access only the places open to visitors. Reduce your water and energy consumption whenever possible. Leave only a minimum footprint and a good impression behind.

Support the local economy

Buy locally-made handcrafts and products. Respect livelihoods of local vendors and artisans by paying a fair price. Do not buy counterfeit products or items that are prohibited by national/ international regulations. Hire local guides with in-depth knowledge of the area.

Be an informed traveller

Take appropriate health and safety precautions prior and during your trip. Know how to access medical care or contact your embassy in case of an emergency. Research well before engaging into volunteerism. Choose tourism operators with environmental policies and community projects in place.

Be a respectful traveller

Observe national laws and regulations. Respect human rights and protect children from exploitation. Abusing children is a crime. Refrain from giving money to begging children and support community projects instead. Take photos instead of protected cultural artefacts as mementos of your trip. Provide honest travel reviews upon your return and promote your positive experiences.

Source: The Tips for a Responsible Traveller were developed by the World Committee on Tourism Ethics and are based on the UNWTO Global Code of Ethics for Tourism.

• Support the local economy (eat at local restaurants, buy local crafts, hire local guides)
• Ask permission before taking photos
• Do not give money to people begging
• Turn off the light when you leave
• Greet people ( Ejoka?! ), say thank you ( Alakara ) and keep smiling
• Dress respectfully
• Keep plastic and recycle it
• Safe water as much as possible
• Bring your reusable water bottle
• Do not walk off the path

• Packing list
• Best time to travel
• How to get to Karamoja
• General travel info
• Good to know