Uganda, in launching its Open Park Days 2025 initiative is opening tourism gates and offering free access to five iconic national parks for three days from September 25th to 27th.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), aims to promote sustainable tourism, foster community engagement, and strengthen conservation efforts across the country.
Under the World Tourism Day 2025 theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” this three-day enterprise invites Ugandans, East African citizens, and foreign residents to explore Uganda’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage at no cost. The parks included are Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, Lake Mburo, Kidepo Valley, and Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve.
Dr James Musinguzi, UWA Executive Director, explained that the initiative goes beyond free park entry, encompassing guided game drives and cultural experiences designed to deepen appreciation and ownership of Uganda’s natural resources.
“This initiative is a critical step towards making the wild accessible to locals and encouraging responsible tourism that benefits communities and conservation,” he said.
The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, led by Minister Tom Butime, and the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) have launched extensive campaigns, including collaborations with influencers and media outreach, to maximize public participation.
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Juliana Kagwa, UTB CEO, emphasized that the campaign aims to awaken national pride and support for Uganda’s biodiversity, which is crucial for long-term tourism growth.
“Open Park Days is an interesting offer from Uganda Wildlife Authority for Ugandans to get free access to some of the National Parks,” Kagwa said.
The initiative aligns with Uganda’s broader vision of responsible and community-driven tourism, emphasizing that conservation and economic growth go hand in hand. Visitors can expect immersive wildlife experiences and cultural engagement that celebrate Uganda’s status as the “Pearl of Africa.”
As Ugandans and their neighbours rediscover their natural heritage, the Open Park Days 2025 mark a new chapter in Uganda’s tourism sector; one that prioritizes sustainability, inclusivity and the empowerment of local communities.
