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5 Interesting Landmarks to See in East Africa
Landmarks help us explore and learn the history of a destination. They provide a sense of the place, making us connect and inspiring us to travel.
Some of the popular landmarks and natural wonders in the world include; the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, The Great Sphinx of Giza in Cairo, Egypt, the Berlin Wall in Berlin Germany etc.
In East Africa, we have many historic landmarks that are worth visiting. All unique to their place, these 5 landmarks should be on your bucket list when travelling to Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Uganda.
Mau Mau Cave, Kenya
This cave was discovered in 1953 by Mau Mau freedom fighters and declared a national monument in 2003. It’s located about 199km North East of Nairobi. The cave was used as a hideout by the fighters throughout the Mau Mau uprising between 1952 and 1960.
Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania
Olduvai Gorge offers a glimpse into human history. Located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Northern Tanzania, this site contains the earliest evidence of human existence. The view of the gorge is breathtaking once you learn more about the paleoanthropological artifacts from the museum.
The Mparo Tombs, Uganda
The tombs are one of the royal burial sites of the Bunyoro Kingdom. Located in Mparo village, Western Uganda, Omukama (King) Chwa II Kabalega was buried here. As a king, he reigned over Bunyoro Kitara in the late 19th century. Among the artifacts displayed above the actual grave are his spears, his throne, and other items. Mparo Tombs has a fascinating history, and you can learn about royal burial traditions and other kings buried there.
Kings Palace Museum, Rwanda
The museum is considered one of the national museums in Rwanda. It displays the royal tradition and life in Rwanda.
The royal residence has been turned into a museum exhibition. The guides will take you through royal life, customs and traditions. Don’t forget to look out for Inyambo, these are bred cattle with large horns.
Palace Museum, Zanzibar
The Palace Museum, also known as Sultan's Palace, can be viewed from the Indian Ocean as you approach the island's shores. The monument was originally built as a palace and destroyed in 1896. In the 19th century, it was rebuilt and occupied by the Sultan's family until 1964, when it was renamed People's Palace and occupied by the government.
It has since been transformed into a museum showcasing Zanzibar's royal history.
The landmarks make a destination interesting whether you are using a guide or exploring on your own. The next time you're in one of the four East African countries, be sure to include these 5 landmarks on your itinerary.
