In a bold and visionary move to position East Africa as a beacon for sustainable tourism and regional unity, the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) has officially launched the 8th edition of the Great Africa Cycling Safari (GACS). The event, inaugurated at the Independence Monument in Kampala, embarks on an extraordinary 6,000-kilometre journey through Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, and Kenya over the course of 55 days.
The safari isn’t just an endurance cycling event—it’s a mobile campaign for peace, unity, environmental stewardship, and cross-border cooperation. Organized by the Pan African Federalist Movement in partnership with EAC Great Africa Cycling Safari, the initiative aims to boost sustainable tourism while promoting socio-economic and cultural integration across the East African Community (EAC).
Cycling for a Cause: Uniting East Africa Through Tourism
The Great Africa Cycling Safari is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of sport, tourism, and social advocacy. With its riders crossing diverse terrains—from Uganda’s savannahs to Rwanda’s rolling hills and Tanzania’s wildlife corridors—the event bridges communities and highlights the incredible diversity of East Africa’s natural and cultural heritage.
At the launch, Juliana Kagwa, CEO of Uganda Tourism Board, underscored the safari’s transformative potential. “This isn’t just about cycling,” she noted. “It’s about using tourism as a diplomatic tool—a way to exchange ideas, embrace our shared heritage, and promote eco-conscious development.”
Showcasing Uganda: A Premier Adventure and Eco-Tourism Destination
Starting from Uganda emphasizes the country’s growing reputation as a hub for adventure travel. Known for its lush rainforests, snow-capped mountains, and Big Five wildlife experiences, Uganda offers a fitting backdrop for an event rooted in exploration and sustainability.
The route includes visits to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home of the endangered mountain gorilla, and Queen Elizabeth National Park, rich in biodiversity and birdlife. These destinations serve as prime examples of how conservation-driven tourism can fuel community livelihoods while preserving ecological treasures.
Cultural Exchange and Local Empowerment
One of the key highlights of the cycling safari is its interactive engagements with local communities. As cyclists pass through towns, villages, and urban centres, they initiate dialogues around food security, environmental conservation, and regional cooperation. This participatory approach helps demystify the role of tourism in everyday lives, positioning it as a tool for education and empowerment.
In countries like Burundi, where tourism infrastructure is still developing, the event presents a golden opportunity to shine a light on lesser-known cultural and natural attractions, thereby decentralizing tourism growth and encouraging investment in untapped destinations.
Regional Tourism Integration and Environmental Stewardship
The GACS is more than a sporting event—it’s a model of integrated regional tourism. With riders crossing multiple international borders, the initiative demonstrates the feasibility and benefits of cross-border tourism, especially under the East African Community’s free movement policies.
In doing so, it lays the groundwork for multi-destination tourism packages, where travelers can explore multiple East African nations under a single itinerary—something increasingly being promoted by the East African Tourism Platform (EATP) and supported by EAC partner states.
At the same time, the event strongly promotes eco-friendly practices, such as reducing carbon emissions, promoting non-motorised transport, and protecting biodiversity. Participants are encouraged to use biodegradable gear, participate in tree-planting ceremonies, and support local conservation projects during the journey.
Media Exposure and Future Impact
The safari is expected to attract global media attention, particularly from international travel and environmental outlets. By spotlighting the tourism potential of East Africa, the initiative can generate new markets, attract investment in eco-tourism, and build long-term brand equity for participating countries.
The 8th edition comes at a crucial time when global travelers are seeking meaningful travel experiences that combine adventure, culture, and sustainability. The Great Africa Cycling Safari positions East Africa as a frontrunner in offering exactly that.
Conclusion: Pedalling Toward a United and Sustainable Africa
As cyclists continue their journey across five East African nations, the Great Africa Cycling Safari reinforces a powerful message: tourism can be a vehicle for peace, unity, and development. With Uganda proudly leading this initiative, the region is sending a compelling invitation to the world—come discover East Africa, not just for its landscapes, but for its resilience, diversity, and shared dreams.
By investing in sustainable and inclusive tourism, the East African region isn’t just boosting visitor numbers—it’s building a future where travel benefits people, the planet, and generations to come.
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