If you are planning to travel to Uganda, Below are some of the general traveling information and tips you may need to know. For detailed information on Safari Holiday, Gorilla Trekking and Mountain Climbing or Beach holiday; feel free to Contact any of our holiday exports.
The weather Uganda is highly influenced by the cold moisture from Lake Victoria; most parts in Western and Southern Uganda experience long rains between March and December. The best time to visit Uganda is between December and March when it’s considered dry and easy to access most national parks.
The temperature during the dry season (summer) would vary between 23°C to 30°C and the wet season (winter) between 17°C to 23°C. For more details on when is the best time for Safari or Gorilla trekking, Contact our Ugandan holiday expert for further information.
Uganda national currency is Uganda shilling; other major curries like USD, Euros and pounds are also widely used. Please note that due to the number of fake notes in circulation, US Dollar note printed before 2003 are not accepted in Uganda (try carry notes printed after 2006).
There are several Banks and ATMs services in all major traveling destinations; where Visa/master/American express cards are accepted. Currency exchange can be done at any local bank, bureau de change and in some authorized hotels.
Entebbe International Airport is the main airport in Uganda, located about 45 Km from Kampala city center; the airport serves as the main flight hub for international and local flights. Other major airstrips include Arua Airstrip, Moyo Airstrip, Kololo Airstrip, Apoka Airstrip, Pakuba Airstrip, Bugungu Airstrip, Kasese Airstrip, Mweya Airstrip, Kihihi Airstrip, Kayonza and Kisoro Airstrip.
Road transfers from airports to hotels or to major destinations in Uganda can be done in private mini buses, vans, taxis or hire private cars. For Safari game drives, due to the rough terrains; we recommend to use 4WD cars with large sliding windows and a pop-up roof for viewing wildlife and the beautiful landscapes.
For local flights, airport transfers, Safari road drives or further information on transport; Contact our transport department.
International Flights
Charter Flights
Uganda electricity supply is 240V with three pin plugs, the time difference is +3 GMT.
For all foreigners traveling to Uganda require a visa (except from Nationals of East African Partner States or exceptional countries), in order to acquire a Ugandan visa, you need at least 6 months valid passport with at least one unused page for endorsement, two application forms, application fee (varies from $ 50), two passport size photograph and a safari itinerary.
Visa application can be done at your local Ugandan embassy or upon arrival on any of the Ugandan entry points, Check out with your local Ugandaa embassy if they do accept postal visa applications. At the entry point, visa payments can be done in local currency or equivalent amount in Euros, GBP and Swiss Francs.
For onwards travelers planning to visit neighboring countries like Kenya and Tanzania, you can purchase your visa, either in Kampala or at the point of entry for about $ 50.
There are no compulsory vaccinations required to visit Uganda unless you are arriving from an area known to have Yellow Fever or other outbreaks, then you will be required to have a vaccination. For general health, it’s advisable to visit your personal doctor for proper information on which vaccine to take, we highly advice our clients to have an anti-malaria vaccine or tablets.
it’s not compulsory to have an insurance cover, but it’s good to have one just in case (especially for families and the elderly).
Uganda is made up of mixed societies with majority being conservative; courtesy and good manners are advised especially in the rural areas and Islamic strong holds. For photographers, always ask permission before taking a picture of the local people.
Note:-homosexuality is illegal in Uganda, it attracts a long prison sentence and the attitudes towards homosexuality by the locals is extremely hostile; travelers who are homosexual are advised to exercise caution or stay away.
In general it’s good to pack light casual wear , with a couple of shorts, T-shirts, light shoes/sandals to wear during the day and long sleeve T-shirts / shirts, trousers, a light jacket for the evenings. For more information on what to pack for a wildlife safari or Gorilla trekking, Contact our Ugandan holiday expert for further information.
Tipping for good service in major places in Uganda is customary although not a must, it's a good gesture of appreciation. In some hotels they add a service charge onto your bill that serve as tip to service given, so it’s good to check on the bill or ask before giving a tip.
