The Equator in Uganda

Uganda has a special place where the equator crosses, splitting the world into two halves. This imaginary line marks the boundary between the northern and southern hemispheres. Kayabwe, just 70 kilometers from Kampala city, is where you can find this iconic spot. It’s a popular stop for tourists traveling to the national parks in western Uganda.

The Equator Experience

Standing at the equator feels amazing. You can be in both the northern and southern hemispheres at the same time! People often feel lighter here, which adds to the excitement of their safari holiday in Uganda. The equator’s presence also explains why Uganda has a warm climate and beautiful landscapes.

Souvenirs and Sightseeing

Along the Kampala-Masaka highway in Kayabwe, there are shops and galleries where locals sell handmade crafts and artworks. Many tourists love to buy souvenirs from here to remember their visit to the equator in Uganda. It’s a great way to share the experience with friends and family back home.

Fun with Water Experiments

At the equator, water behaves in interesting ways. Due to the Coriolis effect, water drains straight down instead of swirling around like it might in other places. While this phenomenon is hard to see with the naked eye, it’s fun to watch demonstrations of it. In the northern hemisphere, water might drain clockwise, while in the southern hemisphere, it might go counterclockwise.

Feeling Lighter at the Equator

Did you know you could be 3% lighter at the equator? Gravity is slightly weaker here compared to other places on Earth. This is because the planet is not a perfect sphere and bulges at the equator. So, when you stand here, you’re actually a bit farther from the center of the Earth compared to when you’re at the poles. This slight decrease in gravity makes you feel lighter. It’s a cool fact to know while experiencing the wonders of the equator in Uganda.