Uganda was Africa's leading tourism destination in the 1960's. But its troubled political history following independence from Britain in 1962, particularly under the dictatorial regime of Idi Amin (1971-1979) and the military junta that followed, drove away virtually all foreign visitors. Now, the government is refocusing its efforts to revitalize the country's tourism sector. Uganda is a landlocked country south of Sudan in East Africa. It's geography includes an astounding range of natural environments, including beautiful lakes, abundant wildlife and exotic birds and many opportunities for outdoor adventure including whitewater rafting, gamefishing and mountain climbing. The country's natural areas include Murchison Falls, Mgahinga and the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (both home to groups of endangered gorillas), the Rwenzori Mountains, Lake Victoria (linked to Lake Albert by the Victoria Nile) and many more. To many observers, Uganda is the most beautiful country in Africa, and the fact that it is still unspoiled by mass tourism, makes it a particularly compelling destination.