Adventure Travel with Ingeborg Sæbø Oluka - Alakara Travels

Ingeborg Sæbø OlukaManaging DirectorAlakara Travelshttps://alakaratravels.com/As the founder and managing director of Alakara Reiser (Norway) and Alakara Travels (Uganda), I work to create customized, small-scale journeys that connect travelers with Uganda’s incredible landscapes, cultures, and communities.What drives me is not only a deep passion for meaningful travel experiences—but also a strong commitment to creating dignified employment and economic opportunities in Uganda. Alakara is built on long-term relationships, regional expertise, and a belief in tourism as a tool for local development and cross-cultural understanding.My journey began over 25 years ago as a volunteer teacher and church worker in Soroti, Uganda (1999–2004). That time shaped my understanding of the country and gave me strong, lasting connections that still guide my work today.From there, I worked with development aid projects in various African countries through The Salvation Army (2007–2012), before taking on leadership roles in education and integration in Suldal municipality—first as a head teacher (2012–2015), then as head of refugee integration and adult education (2015–2019). These experiences strengthened my leadership, cross-cultural communication, and strategic planning skills.Since 2020, I have worked with the Norwegian Mission Society, first as an advisor for leadership development and now as Global Study Coordinator for NMS Global Exchange. I continue in this role alongside running Alakara.Across all these experiences runs a common thread: a commitment to people, purpose, and partnership. Whether guiding travelers through Uganda, collaborating with local businesses, or mentoring young professionals across cultures, I believe in building something that matters—for both guests and hosts.summaryIn this episode of the Big World Made Small podcast, Jason Elkins speaks with Ingeborg Oluka, managing director of Alakara, a travel company focused on providing immersive experiences in Uganda. Ingeborg shares her journey from Norway to Uganda, detailing her first life-changing trip to the country and how it inspired her to start a tour business. The conversation explores the importance of community and conservation in tourism, the impact of COVID-19 on travel preferences, and the diverse attractions Uganda offers beyond gorillas. Ingeborg also discusses the significance of gorilla tourism in conservation efforts and provides insights into the cultural richness of the Karamoja region.takeawaysAlakara focuses on providing deep cultural experiences in Uganda.Ingeborg's first trip to Uganda at 19 was life-changing.The importance of community and conservation in tourism.COVID-19 shifted travel preferences towards custom trips.Uganda offers diverse attractions beyond gorillas, including hiking and cultural experiences.Gorilla tourism is a significant part of Uganda's conservation efforts.Permits for gorilla tracking are essential and must be booked in advance.Traveling in Uganda requires understanding local conditions and safety.Karamoja is a culturally rich region worth exploring.Ingeborg emphasizes the importance of guided tours for safety and experience. Big World Made Small guest features are invitation-only and selected based on story, experience, and fit with the show. Some guests support the show through paid production features, cross-promotion, referrals, or other partnerships. This helps keep the show free of third-party ads and interruptions while keeping the focus on real, story-driven conversations.Learn more about the Big World Made Small Podcast and join our private community to get episode updates, special access to our guests, and exclusive adventure travel offers on our website.