Even, uganda has a wonderful climate, not too hot nor too cold, and is really a beautiful country - right at the top of those I visited or lived in. People are generally welcoming, and Immigration and Customs at entry are a pleasure to deal with. Visa is obtained on arrival at the airport, $50 and two minutes.
Karamoja is a place all by itself. Its people, geography, geology, weather, landscapes, set it apart. One of the most stunning regions I've seen - and i've traveled a lot. As for the Karimojong... Well, have you read Bell's books? Here we are, his depiction of people and characters nail it. Even though he's giving very few details on locations, when you know the place you can understand where he was and which particular clans he was dealing with. To summarize things, in Karamoja the traditional argument solving tool is a spear or an AK, and if people don't like you, you're going to know about it... On the other hand, if they do like you it's a great place to operate, people are supportive and helpful.
Tophet, as far as I know, Stigand, Patterson, Stanley, Baker, Selous, Boyes, Sutherland, Puxley, Burton, Lyell, Horn, Taylor, Hunter, Lake, and countless others who roamed Africa before tour operators took care of one's trifles, all wrote after the fact... And if you knew what Bell is talking about, you'd realize that he was very matter-of-fact and unpretentious in his writings. As for his elephant hunting, he never claimed any particular glory, and kept very meticulous accounts of what he was shooting: dates, locations, weights, relevant details. He was a businessman, not a blast-away fame-seeker.
He fought two wars without being asked to, ended up as an officer, and if I'm not mistaken was awarded a Military Cross, which you don't usually get for bragging after hours at the Officer's mess.
Having seen my fare share of Africa in general and Karamoja in particular, I have come to learn the difference between a bullshitter and a straight-shooter (figuratively, in this case). My honest opinion is that Bell was a gentleman, and someone with whom I'd have gladly shared a drink around the fire.
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