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Travel Advisory December 28, 2023

Uganda - level 3: reconsider travel.

Uganda Level 3 – Reconsider Travel C T O

Reissued with updates to terrorism information.

Reconsider travel to Uganda due to  crime, terrorism , and  anti-LGBTQI+ legislation . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Country summary:  There remains a threat of  terrorist attacks  in Uganda and throughout the region. Numerous terrorist attacks have occurred in Uganda, to include religious venues, schools, and areas frequented by tourists, resulting in the deaths of Ugandans as well as foreign visitors.  U.S. citizens should remain alert and avoid large public gatherings. In October 2023, ISIS-Central Africa claimed responsibility for killing two international tourists and a Ugandan driver within Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Violent crime , such as armed robbery, home invasion, and sexual assault, presents a serious threat to those visiting and residing in Uganda and can occur at any time, especially in larger cities, including Kampala, Jinja and Entebbe, in the Karamoja region, and along Uganda’s western and northern borders. Local police may lack appropriate resources to respond effectively to serious crime in most areas.

The May 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act raises the  risk that LGBTQI+ persons, and those perceived to be LGBTQI+, could be prosecuted and subjected to life imprisonment or death based on provisions in the law , and may be subject to mandatory reporting to the police if they are suspected of committing or intending to commit acts in violation of the law, and could face harassment or attacks by vigilantes. Those perceived to support the dignity and human rights of LGBTQI+ persons (including those of youth under the age of 18) could be prosecuted and imprisoned for multi-year sentences.   Even an unsubstantiated accusation of supporting the LGBTQI+ community can create risks from police and vigilantes.  Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Uganda.

If you decide to travel to Uganda:

  • Remain alert and avoid large public gatherings.
  • Keep a low profile.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.
  • Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
  • Use caution when walking or driving at night.
  • Remain with a group of friends in public.
  • Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
  • Do not open your door for people at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.
  • Do not leave food and drinks unattended in public, especially in local clubs.
  • Stay alert in locations frequented by foreign tourists.
  • Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
  • Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable) and secure originals in your hotel safe.
  • Provide your itinerary to a family member or friend.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Be mindful that any public identification with the LGBTQI+ community, as either a member or supporter, could be grounds for prosecution, and that even private consensual same-sex relations are illegal.
  • Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
  • Review the  Country Security Report  for Uganda.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
  • Visit the  CDC page  for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

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Yellow Fever; Polio (for children under 5)

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Plot 1577 Ggaba Road Kampala, Uganda Telephone: +(256)(0) 414-306-001 and +(256)(0)312-306-001 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(256)(0) 414-306-001 and +(256)(0)312-306-001 Fax: +(256)(0) 414-259-794  Email:   [email protected]

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Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

U.S. citizens intending to travel to Uganda for holiday, tourism, business, study, visit, and/or medical treatment are required to apply and obtain a visa online in advance of travel on the Government of Uganda’s Electronic Visa/Permit Application System website . U.S. citizens who have recently attempted entry without completing the electronic visa process in advance of their travel have been refused boarding by the airlines and/or entry into Uganda. The U.S. Embassy is not able to assist U.S. citizens in gaining entry to Uganda.

All travelers to Uganda must have a valid yellow fever immunization card.

For the most up-to-date visa information, including fees, contact the Embassy of the Republic of Uganda at 5911 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011; telephone (202) 726-7100 or visit their  website . Travelers may also contact the  Permanent Mission of the Republic of Uganda to the United Nations  in New York. Overseas, inquiries can be made at the nearest Ugandan embassy or consulate.

Ugandan immigration imposes a fine of approximately $30 per day for visa overstays and may detain individuals who overstay their visas until the fine is paid. Employment permits are required. Working without a valid permit in Uganda may result in fines and/or detention. Be aware that the Ugandan immigration officer at the port of entry determines the length of authorized stay, which is generally from two weeks to three months for tourists. Immigration policies are not always consistently applied and may change without notice. Extensions of duration of stay may be requested at Ugandan immigration headquarters, Jinja Road, in Kampala. For more information on immigration issues, please see the Directorate of Citizen and Immigration Control website  or call + 256 414 595 945. Avoid any offers by private individuals claiming that they can assist with visa issues.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to Uganda or foreign residents living in Uganda.

Some airlines require travelers to Uganda to present the physical credit card used to purchase the plane tickets upon checking in at the airport before they can receive a boarding pass. Check with your airline for more information.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

In April 2019, a U.S. citizen was kidnapped in Queen Elizabeth National Park, in the southwest region of Uganda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The U.S. citizen was later released unharmed. 

There is increased terrorist activity within the region. Recent events include the Ugandan Police Force reportedly foiling a planned bomb attack on churches by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebel group about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Kampala; reported foiled plots of church attacks and subsequent explosive devices found in Kampala, and a fatal terror attack by ISIS-CA killing two international tourists and Ugandan driver within Queen Elizabeth National Park. Anyone can be a victim at any time; U.S. citizens should remain alert and avoid large public gatherings. Communications plans are basic ways for people to ensure they can be reached while on travel or anywhere really. This includes having different types of communications (email, phone, satellite phone), letting people know when one will be in an area of cell coverage to receive messages, and providing phone numbers of the locations one will be staying etc. The State Department discusses this in the link here: https://exchanges.state.gov/us/keeping-touch .

Northern and Eastern Uganda : The South Sudan-Uganda border is porous, and there are frequent reports of criminal trade and movement of people across the border. Due to the influx of refugees from South Sudan into Uganda, there is a strain on the region’s health, education, and security resources. Sporadic clashes may occur along the shared border, which may be poorly demarcated; a section is under dispute in the Moyo area of northwestern Uganda, abutting the Kajo Keji area of South Sudan.

Crime and conflict threat in the Karamoja region in northeastern Uganda remain volatile. The Uganda People’s Defense Force actively engages criminals in the Karamoja Region, and armed confrontation between police and criminal elements can occur. Emergency medical care and auto repair services are lacking in remote areas of the Karamoja Region. The U.S. Embassy requires its employees to follow enhanced protocols when traversing the Karamoja region.

Southwestern Uganda/Western Uganda : U.S. citizens traveling in southwestern Uganda along Uganda’s western border with the DRC should be aware that armed groups, including those aligned with terrorist organizations such as ISIS-CA, are active in eastern DRC, along with ongoing military operations to counter the threat in the region. Travelers should review the  country information page and Travel Advisory  for the DRC. Refugee flows across the border can number in the thousands, and there is a risk of incursions by armed combatants and criminals.

There is a potential for violence related to ethnic and tribal tensions in the western districts of Bundibuguyo, Ntoroko, and Kasese, near the border with the DRC. U.S. citizens should be vigilant and monitor local media for the latest news.

There is an uptick in terrorist activity in this specific region. Attacks in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kasese,and Mpondwe-Lhubiriha have resulted in deaths of Ugandan as well as foreign nationals.

The Governments of Rwanda and Uganda closed the Rwanda-Uganda border for extended periods of time in the last year. Some shutdowns are 24-hour closures and others are only overnight closures. Travelers should ensure the border is open when attempting to travel between Rwanda and Uganda.

The U.S. Embassy requires its employees to follow enhanced protocols when traversing the region from Lake Albert down to the Rwandan border.

The U.S. State Department encourages overseas travelers to develop communication plans to ensure they can be reached while traveling. This includes having different types of communications (email, phone, satellite phone), letting people know when one will be in an area of cell coverage to receive messages, and providing phone numbers of the locations one will be staying etc.

Demonstrations : Demonstrations in Kampala and other cities periodically occur in response to local political developments Police routinely use tear gas – and sometimes live ammunition resulting in deaths – to disperse protests in urban areas. U.S. citizens are urged to monitor media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times. Avoid demonstrations, as even peaceful gatherings can turn violent without notice.

Involvement in Local Social Issues : All U.S. citizen travelers to Uganda should ensure that they have the correct visa for their visit to Uganda. Missionary and NGO work frequently require a work visa. Travelers who plan to engage in religious or civil society activities should obtain the appropriate visa from the Embassy of Uganda before departing the United States. The Government of Uganda has shown an increased interest in the activities of foreigners working with non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Local authorities have been known to detain, question, and arrest foreigners in Uganda, and some visitors have been ordered removed from the country.

Crime : Pick pocketing, purse snatching, and thefts from hotel rooms, parked vehicles, and vehicles stalled in traffic jams are common. Armed robberies of pedestrians and car jackings also occur, sometimes during daylight hours and in public places. Victims usually remain unharmed if they do not resist. Assaults and property snatching by boda boda (motorcycle operators and passengers) are routinely reported. Food and drinks should never be left unattended in public. Women have reported being drugged and taken to another location and sexually assaulted. Similar tactics are used to rob individuals on public transportation. Remain with a group of friends in public, as single individuals are more likely to be targeted.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Uganda. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

  • Romance/Online dating
  • Money transfers
  • Lucrative sales
  • Gold purchase

Victims of Crime : Victims of sexual assault should seek medical assistance and counseling immediately regarding prophylactic treatment to help prevent the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. A  list of local medical providers  can be found on the U.S. Embassy website.

Report crimes to the local police at 999 and contact the U.S. Embassy at (256) (0) 414-306-001.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police at 999 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(256)(0) 414-306-001. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. citizens victims of crime overseas .

  • help you find appropriate medical care
  • assist you in reporting a crime to the police
  • contact relatives or friends with your written consent
  • explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
  • provide a list of local attorneys
  • provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
  • provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
  • help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
  • replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence : U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism : The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties : You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Currency : U.S. currency notes in denominations less than $100 may be exchanged at a less favorable exchange rate. Travelers cannot exchange or use U.S. currency printed earlier than 2006. Western Union, MoneyGram, and other types of money transfer facilities are available in Kampala and other cities throughout the country. ATMs are available, but many only function for customers who have an account with a specific Ugandan bank.

Charities/NGOs : U.S. citizens planning to work for or donate money to an NGO should have the charity provide references of past volunteers whom they may contact. U.S. citizens have reported intimidation and harassment by directors of organizations when questioned about the organization's activities or use of donated funds.

Information about registering an NGO can be obtained from the Ugandan NGO Bureau, which has offices within the Ministry of Internal Affairs. They can be reached at (256) (0) 414 253 446. If a Certificate of Good Conduct/Criminal Background Check is needed to start or work for an NGO, you can obtain it by contacting your local police or on  the FBI website  before traveling.

Faith-Based Travelers : See our following webpages for details:

  • Faith-Based Travel Information
  • International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
  • Human Rights Report  – see country reports
  • Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
  • Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance : Accessibility to public transportation may be difficult for those with mobility issues. Foot paths and road crossings present barriers. There are no free or reduced taxi fares, or other accommodations in communication, lodging, medical facilities, restaurants, cafes, bars, or other tourist spots for disabled tourists.

Students : See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers : See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  The May 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act (AHA) includes penalties up to life imprisonment for consensual same-sex relations and capital punishment for crimes of “aggravated homosexuality” (such as serial offenders). Youth under the age of 18 could be prosecuted and imprisoned for multi-year sentences. LGBTQI+ persons, including youth, may be subject to forced conversion therapy – a dangerous and discredited practice that causes significant harm, including high rates of suicide-related thoughts and behaviors among LGBTQI+ youth. Social acceptance of homosexuality is very low. LGBTQI+ persons, or persons perceived to be LGBTQI+, could face harassment, imprisonment, blackmail, and violence, with heightened risk surrounding the passage of the AHA; The public is required to report to the police a person suspected of committing or intending to commit acts enumerated in the law. Hoteliers are not permitted to knowingly provide rooms to individuals who may commit acts deemed illegal in the AHA. Individuals or organizations viewed as publicly supporting the dignity and human rights of LGBTQI+ persons could be prosecuted and imprisoned for multi-year sentence, including those that attend a same-sex marriage either inside or outside of Uganda’s borders. LGBTQI+ organizations or those that advocate for the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons may be deemed illegal under the law. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights Report for further details.

Medical facilities in Uganda are limited and only equipped to handle minor medical emergencies. Surgical capabilities are inadequate, and blood supplies may be insufficient. Outside Kampala, hospitals are scarce and offer only basic services. Travelers should carry their own supplies of prescription drugs and preventive medicines. 

A list of medical providers  is available at the U.S. Embassy website. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

For emergency services in Uganda, dial 999 .

Ambulance services are not widely available and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.

The U.S. Embassy does not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance : Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the  Embassy of Uganda  to ensure the medication is legal in Uganda. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.

The following diseases are known to occur in Uganda:

  • Hepatitis B
  • Yellow fever
  • Tuberculosis (TB)
  • Marburg hemorrhagic fever
  • Pneumonic plague
  • Schistosomiasis

Vaccinations : Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

  • World Health Organization
  • U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

  • Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Uganda. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you, and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary. 
  • Infants, children, and teens
  • People over 65 years of age
  • People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema;
  • People with heart disease or diabetes
  • People who work or are active outdoors

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety : Nighttime travel should be avoided whenever possible. Highway travel at night is particularly dangerous, including on the roads between Entebbe Airport and Kampala. The Embassy recommends caution on these roads and use of a reliable taxi service to and from the airport. With the exception of the Kampala-Entebbe airport road, U.S. Embassy employees are prohibited from driving after dark on roads outside the limits of cities and large towns. Alcohol is frequently a contributing factor in road accidents, particularly at night.

Pedestrians often walk in the roads and may not be visible to motorists. Large branches or rocks in the road sometimes indicate an upcoming obstruction or other hazards. Ugandan law requires that the drivers stop and exchange information and assist any person injured in an accident. Mob anger and violence against the driver perceived to be at fault may occur. In these instances, Ugandans often do not get out of their cars, but drive to the nearest police station to report the accident.

Road conditions in the rural areas are poor. The use of four-wheel drive vehicles is encouraged in Uganda, and vehicular accidents occur at a high rate. Masaka Highway has been identified as one of the most dangerous roads in the world.

Public Transportation : Most inter-city transportation in Uganda is by small van or large bus. Many drivers of these vehicles have little training, and some are reckless. Vans and buses are often poorly maintained, travel at high speeds, and are the most common vehicles involved in the many deadly single- and multi-vehicle accidents along Ugandan roads. Accident victims have included U.S. citizens traveling in vans and personal cars, as passengers on motorcycle taxis locally known as "boda bodas," and as pedestrians. U.S. Mission employees and their dependents are prohibited from using boda bodas and matatus (minibus taxis) due to accident and crime risks. Large trucks on the highways are often overloaded with inadequately secured cargo and poor braking systems.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight : As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Uganda, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Uganda’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

For additional travel information

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
  • Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
  • See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Uganda . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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33 Things To Know Before You Travel To Uganda in 2024

visit to uganda

Traveling in Uganda is one big off the beaten path adventure. It won’t be anything like your standard trip in Europe or the States and although it simply requires a little more planning, traveling to Uganda is a lifetime experience. While many travelers visit Uganda for the mountain gorilla trekking, the country has so much more to offer. Some people are still in the understanding that Uganda is unsafe, but don't worry. In this Uganda travel blog you can read everything you should know before traveling to Uganda.

No country is perfect and surely not here in Eastern Africa, but its imperfections will make your Uganda trip one to remember. Planning a Uganda holiday doesn’t need to be difficult, especially now that Uganda tourism is growing rapidly and even a DIY trip is possible since the country is actually investing heavily in infrastructure.

Award winning travel photographer Kim Paffen visited Uganda in 2019 and initially wrote this blog for Traveltomtom. In 2021 Traveltomtom himself traveled to Uganda and not 1 time but 2 times: in May and in August and updated this complete Uganda travel guide with even more travel tips for Uganda.

Related: Traveltomtom Uganda Group Trip !

travel to uganda 28

Also check out our ultimate Uganda itinerary for 3 weeks  and guide for trekking to the mountain gorillas in Bwindi National Park .

PLEASE SUPPORT TRAVELTOMTOM by sharing the link of this article on Facebook or pin some photos on Pinterest. We would appreciated it big time! :)

1. Do you need a visa to travel to Uganda

Visa policy of Uganda

Almost all countries will need a visa when traveling to Uganda. Check out the visa policy for Uganda here. E-visas can be purchased online through the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration . This is the only authentic Visa Application Portal for Uganda visas and it costs $50, exclusive service fee.

Avoid other (fraudulent) portals where you’ll pay much more for your Uganda visa! 

Visa on arrival

There is still the opportunity to get a visa on arrival for Uganda, but only at the land borders and kind of unofficially. Some travelers I know still managed to get a visa on arrival crossing overland from Kenya in November 2021, but officially the E-visa replaced all visa on arrivals for Uganda. So Traveltomtom recommends getting the e-visa for Uganda.

When flying to Uganda, an e-visas is mandatory. The Uganda e-visa is quick and easy, but also a little work as they require a passport-copy, recent passport-size photograph and your yellow fever vaccination certificate. Click here to apply for an e-visa for Uganda .

Traveltomtom traveled overland from Bukoba in Tanzania to Masaka in Uganda in May 2021. The whole border process took him just about 5 minutes. Just have your $50 or $100 bill ready and a visa on arrival will be fixed in just a couple minutes.

Eastern African Community single tourists visa

If you are planning to travel to Kenya and Rwanda on the same trip the Eastern African Community tourists visa is worth applying. This visa is a single entry tourist visa for these three countries, but within its borders it is multiple entry. It cost $100 and is valid for 90 days. As soon as you leave one the 3 countries, it loses its validity. 

When Traveltomtom entered overland the Eastern African visa was SOLD OUT! Welcome to Africa! :)

2. Do I need vaccinations to travel to Uganda

First of all, yes you do need shots to visit Uganda as without a Yellow Fever vaccination certification you can not obtain a visa. They actually check it at the border. On top of that it is also advised you get vaccinations for DTP, Hepatitis A and malaria. Some organizations may advice you to take Typhoid, Cholera, Hepatitis B and Rabies as well.

At the moment a negative PCR test within 72 hours is also required to travel to Uganda. It does not make a difference if you are vaccinated or not, everyone needs a negative PCR test. Obviously Covis regulations change all the time, therefore I recommend you to have a look at the 

BTW if you travel to Uganda you will see NO signs of covid, not in the big cities, not in the countryside. Wearing a mask is officially mandatory in some places, but hardly ever enforced nor is anyone wearing a mask (properly).

Leaving Uganda and looking to do a PCR test? Easy, easy. You can do them almost everywhere in the labs of the bigger cities as well as on the land borders. For $50 you can do one at the border of Kenya and also at the Tanzania land border and waiting time for the result is 4-6 hours. In the bigger cities you pay between 200,000 ($70) and 280,000 ($100). Waiting time is 24 hours, but in reality results are returned by whatsapp/email within 4-6 hours.

3. Is there Malaria in Uganda

travel to uganda 116

There is a risk of Malaria throughout the country and therefore all Uganda travel guides will recommended you to take Malaria medication. in 2018, Traveltomtom writer Kim Paffen traveled on a 3 week itinerary around Uganda , she decided to use malaria medication. Traveltomtom however did not during his 2 weeks in Uganda in May and August. If you go to the Northern areas and for example travel to Murchison Falls, most travelers take malaria pills.

In general the most important is to protect yourself against mosquito bites and it can be as simple as wearing long pants and sleeves just before sunset. If you want a plant based medicinal protection against malaria, have a look into using Artemisia .

4. Is it safe to travel to Uganda

uganda travel blog 54

Uganda is generally considered to be a safe country with low crime rates. Both Kim and Traveltomtom felt completlely safe all the time! Just avoid travel by road outside major towns at night. It’s also adviced to gather the latest travel information when traveling to the South Sudan border region and Karamoja in the very north. There have some problems reported regarding the so called Kenyan Warriors, but not against tourists.

However, visiting Kidepo Valley National Park, which lies close to the border with South Sudan is totally fine. Simply use common sense at all times, take care of your belongings and be aware of your surroundings and one should be totally fine traveling in Uganda.

Since the global pandemic crime rates have gone up according to locals, but Traveltomtom visited Kampala and there was not a moment he felt uneasy or anything like that. He was told not to take out his iPhone in public too much, as they snatch phones from tourists these days.

But as you know Traveltomtom films everything for his Instagram stories and it was no issue at all. Just be smart about when and where and how! I also took my group trip to visit Kampala and even with 3 ladies it was fine. Just a little intimidating at times.

Related: 23 Best Things to do in Kampala ! Including a vlog about my first impressions of Kampala.

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5. Can you drink the tap water in Uganda

Well let me first advice you to just not drink the tap water in Uganda! Yes, we also want to reduce single-use plastic, but most of the tap water in Uganda is just not made for drinking. At least not for Western stomachs. You just don't want to ruin you Uganda trip by being brave and trying to drink the tap water. It is not worth it. However, it is totally fine to use it to brush your teeth, wash your face and mouth, etc. Don't panic when you coincidentally swallow a little bit of the tap water in Uganda. You will be fine, no worries. Our advice is to buy bottled drinking water, that way you are also supporting local businesses. 

6. Best time to travel to Uganda?

travel to uganda 37

You can travel to Uganda all year! The best time for Uganda safaris is during the dry season from June to August and from December to February. In dryer conditions wildlife is easier to spot.

The high season is from June to September, but it will never really get crowded. There is no real peak season for traveling to Uganda. The most challenging months to visit Uganda are March, April and May. Because of the wet season traveling around can get a little more complicated. Roads and nature trails can be in poor conditions.

The gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest can be done year round. Keep in mind that places like Lake Bunyonyi, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Queens National Park, etc can get cold at night even in summer due to their high altitudes.

7. Famous Quote about Uganda from Winston Churchill

uganda quote pearl of africa

in 1908 Winston Churchill spoke the following famous quote about Uganda that still resonates in Uganda nowadays:

"For magnificence, for variety of form and color, for profusion of brilliant life - bird, insect, reptile, beast - for vast scale, Uganda is truly the Pearl of Africa."

That is why you will see Welcome to the Pearl of Africa all around Uganda.

8. What is the currency in Uganda

The name of the local currency in Uganda is the Shilling. Uganda is still a cash country and card payments are not common. However most bigger hotels and lodges and even at the Uganda National Parks you can pay with either credit cards as well as USD, Euros and GBP these days. So when paying for example the $700 National Park fee for mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi  there is no need to bring stacks of Uganda cash.

Makes sure you always have Uganda Shillings (UGX) on you during your Uganda trip. Small bills like 1,000 UGX are the equivalent of just 25 dollar cents, but they are worth big smiles if you give them to locals as a tip. Try to buy local to support local people in Uganda.

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9. Exchange money

You will get the best value for money when you exchange US dollar into Ugandan Shilling at a Forex office in one of the towns. You can also change money at the Entebbe Airport, but the rates are significantly lower. There are exchange offices all around the bigger towns and the Uganda tourist attractions.

Be aware of the US Dollar-UGX exchange rate. Some Ugandans are very ‘creative’ with converting their currency in for example US Dollars or Euros. As per January 2024 the official exchange rate is around: $1 USD = 3,800 UGX.

10. ATM's in Uganda

When updating this Uganda travel blog Traveltomtom added this item as he had problems withdrawing money from ATM's. Apparently his bank (Revolut) suspended all transactions with Uganda. This came as a total surprise and things got a little complicated. Luckily he had some cash on him and used another Visa credit card to withdraw money.

The Standard Chartered Bank charges the highest fees for withdrawing money: 20,000 UGX = $5.4 USD. Stanbic Bank and Absa Bank charge 11,500 UGX = $3 USD. The best ATM in Uganda for foreign bank cards is Bank of Baroda as they do NOT charge a fee for withdrawing money.

11. Buy a local sim card for Uganda

Stay connected in Uganda and buy a local sim card. Prepaid Uganda sim cards are cheap and you get about 5 GB for $5 USD. I advice travelers to get a Airtel Uganda sim card based on my own experiences. Check out my complete guide for buying a sim card in Uganda in 2024  or when you are flying to Entebbe here is a guide for buying a sim card at Entebbe Airport .

12. Facebook is available again

Because of a dispute between the Uganda Government and Facebook back in 2021 Facebook and Instagram were blocked for a long time.  Luckily when visiting Uganda again in August 2021, things got partially solved as Instagram is accessible again. The Facebook block was luckily also lifted in 2023 and therefore as of 2024 you can use all social media apps without any problems.

By law it is officially forbidden to use a VPN in Uganda but it is of course very common. There is not direct need anymore since all social media apps are available again.

In those years WhatsApp was also blocked, but when you would pay an extra social media tax (OTT) the app would be accessible. Luckily, since July 2021 the social media tax is something from the past as well and the OTT is lifted by the government. You can use WhatsApp in Uganda without any problem.

13. How is the WiFi in Uganda

Let's not talk around the bush, the WiFi in Uganda is shit. Although most lodges offer free Wi-Fi in their main areas, it’s mostly not working or it is very slow. It is best to buy a Uganda prepaid sim card on arrival or buy a sim card at Entebbe Airport . Just don't rely on WiFi when traveling in Uganda.

14. What is the food like in Uganda

Local food is a mix of matoke (cooked bananas), cassave, potatoes, sweet potatoes, beans, tomatos, cabbage and a sauce made of grounded peanuts. The sauce is very similar to satay sauce from Indonesia. This is what a standard local meal looks like in Uganda and you should try it in a local restaurant. Locals love it if tourists come and try their local food. It shouldn't cost more than $2 normally.

When traveling in Uganda you will also quickly find out that there is a huge Indian influence and that is why you can find Indian food everywhere. Traveltomtom has visited India a lot and loves Indian food, but in Uganda they prepare very good Indian food too. He was pleasantly surprised. It is also very common to find chapati on the streets and in restaurants.

One more great thing to mention about Ugandan food is that there are fresh fruits everywhere. You can find it on the streets and it is CHEAP!

Are you staying in more upscale lodges, then often the meals are included. That means you will be served a 3 course meal every evening, which mostly is Western orientated dishes like pasta, steak, fish, etc.

15. What is a Ugandan Rolex?

rolex uganda

A Rolex is not a watch, but it comes from a dish called rolled eggs. You can buy it almost everywhere along the street. I ate is several times as breakfast or lunch and found it to be very tasty. It is basically a chapati with egg. Cheap, fast and pretty good. A street food Rolex shouldn't cost more than 1,500 UGX ($0.35)

16. Do you tip in Uganda?

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Tipping is normal in Uganda. Most guides expect a small tip after for example a bout tour, game drive or a nature walk. Because locals have limited access to exchange tips in a foreign currency, the best thing to do is tipping them in Ugandan Shilling.

The average monthly income in Uganda varies throughout the country and ranges between 500.000 UGX ($140 USD) and 1.000.000 UGX ($280 USD) . Tipping someone a couple dollars will give you a lot of smiles throughout your trip to Uganda. Ugandan people are super friendly, especially the ones in the tourism business and those who speak English. I am sure you gonna see a lot of big smiles leaving a couple dollars behind as a tip.

17. How much are the National Park fees in Uganda in 2024

queen elizabeth national park fees

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has set fixed fees for visiting national parks in Uganda. Park entrance fees differ a little per National Park but most of the famous tourists spots in Uganda are around $40 for tourists. Some lesser known parks charge $35 and some small reserves only $10 for foreign non-residents (FNR). Be aware that National Park fees in Uganda are per 24 hours. That means you can be creative with the park fees when you schedule it right.

Click here to download the latest National Park Fees in Uganda  as a PDF directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority website. For vehicles you pay an additional national park fee. The national park fees for cars are a single payment so you don't pay per day. For the car you pay another 30,000 UGX.

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Example: you visit Uganda with your partner and visit 4 of the most popular National Parks all for 2 days then expect to pay the following national park fees: 4 * 2 * 2 * $40 = $640 in national park fees.

On top of that you would have to pay for the vehicle: 4 * $8 = $32. In total you then pay $672 national park fees. It may sound a lot but traveling in Uganda is so worth it.

18. How much do excursions cost in Uganda

things to do in uganda prices

When traveling in Uganda you will find out that things to do in Uganda are NOT cheap. I was surprised that white water rafting in Jinja on the Nile River costs somewhere between $80 and $140 USD depending on your negotiation skills. It is a full day trip, but still... I just told you what the average income per month is in Uganda.

Excursion prices vary enormously, but to give you an idea here are some prices for activities that I found through the Uganda Wildlife Authority website .

19. Uganda tourism is expensive

In case you didn't know yet, traveling in Africa is expensive and Uganda is no exception. If you eat local, sleep local and travel local then you can travel Africa on a budget. But as soon as you want to see some of the best places to visit in Uganda, things get a lot more expensive.

In all honesty some travel experiences in Uganda are very expensive! Traveltomtom has traveled to more than 110 countries and especially on his overland trip in Africa he found Uganda to be one of the more expensive countries. For example a 3d/2n trip to Murchison Falls from Entebbe was $400 and that during the global pandemic. Bargaining about these trip prices is not easy either. It is the National Park fees, the tour operators, the local guides, the transportation, etc. that make these tours in Uganda so expensive.

20. Travel Uganda on a budget

travel to uganda on a budget

Can you visit Uganda on a budget? Yes you can! Traveltomtom did a guided tour to the gorillas trekking in Bwindi National Park and safaris in Mburo National Park, but mainly traveled overland for most part of his Uganda trip. Local busses are cheap and the more local you go, the cheaper it becomes. Of course it also becomes less comfortable and it will take much more time

A 2-3 hour bus ride should not cost more than $5. There are busses in every direction. Big coaches are pretty comfortable but you could also negotiate to take the front seat in one of the smaller vans called Matatus and pay for 2 seats. Traveltomtom always bought the driver and his helper a drink or some snacks, it is a couple cents, but it makes your trip much more comfortable.

When visiting National Parks try to hitch a ride with some other tourists. You will still have to pay the national park fees, but it is a great way to save on guided safaris. Visiting the mountain gorillas there is no other way then paying for permit that includes a guided trekking.

However some places to visit in Uganda are free, like the equator sign! :)

21. Boda Boda's in Uganda

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Traveltomtom named Uganda the Vietnam of Africa. If you have ever visited Vietnam then you know what he means. Motorbikes are the main mode of transportation for local people in Uganda, not for tourists.However, there are motorbikes everywhere and Traveltomtom made great use of that. Big parts of his overland trip in Uganda he also used boda boda's.

For example a Boda Boda from Entebbe to Kampala is about 50 minutes and should not cost more than 40,000 UGX, but you can easily negotiate it down to 30,000 UGX. Traveltomtom also traveled by Boda Boda from Kampala to Jinja for 80,000, which was a 2,5h trip. If you are up for an adventure then traveling by motorbike in Uganda is pretty wild!

22. There is Uber and Bolt in Uganda

Looking for a safe way to travel then surely recommend you to use one of the taxi apps. The most common one to Western tourists is of course Uber, but you can also use Bolt in Uganda. It is the exact same thing. Of course if you go off the beaten path in Uganda, don't expect to find an Uber or Blot, it is limited to the bigger cities only.

When looking for food delivery apps then download the Glovo app. There is no Uber Eats in Uganda, but Glovo works fine. However, it is very limited to Kampala mostly. Glovo can do grocery shopping for you or deliver you stuff from the pharmacy.

23. When and where to buy Chimpanzee and Gorilla trekking permits?

chimps gorilla trekking permit price uganda

Secure your gorilla or chimp trekking permits prior to arrival to avoid disappointment! The permits are issued by UWA that markets them through Uganda Tour Operators to the public. Therefor it’s best to book your trekking permit (or a complete trekking tour) with a tour operator that is a member of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators. The mountain gorilla trekking permits cost $700 in 2024 for foreign non-residents.

You can obtain and pay the Gorilla trekking permit directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority website .

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I advise you to apply for a permit 6 months prior to the date you want to trek. Permits from June-August and December and February tend to sell out quickly. Last minute bookings may be possible during low season. For more info read my complete gorilla trekking blog , which is also updated for 2024.

Traveltomtom did the Gorilla trekking 2 times in 2021: in May and August.

24. Electricity plugs in Uganda

Few areas outside the cities actually have electricity. Most of the lodges use solar energy or generators, which means there is only power at certain times of the day and electricity plugs are limited. Because of that, it isn’t always possible to charge all your devices in your room. In some places you will be able to charge your phone, but laptops or camera batteries have to be charged in the reception or main area.

Hairdryers use too much power so these are often not available. Of course the more expensive lodges have 24h facilities available, but be prepared to pay $300 per person per night for those. A helpful Uganda travel tip is to bring powerful powerbanks to charge your devices when needed and bring extra batteries for cameras, etc.

The electricity plugs in Uganda are similar to the ones in the UK. So make sure you bring a travel adapter with you when visiting Uganda. For more info on what to pack for a Uganda trip keep reaading.

25. Road conditions in Uganda

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There are a lot of road works in Uganda and although many roads improved a lot over the last years, some roads are still in a very bad condition. Depending on the weather it sometimes can be challenging to travel around Uganda. If you choose to drive yourself (which is an option) I would suggest driving a 4WD. Keep in mind that you have to drive on the left side of the road.

Contact UWA Headquarters to obtain up-to-date advice about the road conditions and identify the preferred route when visiting Uganda. Especially if you consider an approach through Karamoja (like me). Some roads can be very bad after heavy rains. In that case it’s better to take an alternative route. There are a lot of investments in Ugnada tourism and (new) roads, so the up-to-date UWA information can come in very handy.

26. Self drive vs. hiring a driver

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There are a lot of tourists on the road exploring the country on a self driving tour. All of the people Traveltomtom met on his recent trip to Uganda that were renting a car and self driving had a 4x4. A bunch of them were actually carrying camping gear and camped most of the time. According to them is was a great way to save some money, because renting a 4x4 is not gonna be cheap. Expect to spend about $80 per day, if you are hiring a driver, expect to pay around $150 per day.

A big tourist vehicle can hold up to 6 people though, so if you are with a group that would be best and then I definitely suggest renting a big 4x4 including a driver.

Hiring a car with driver in Uganda gives you time to enjoy the long road trips. The landscapes are amazing and there is so much to see along the road. Main roads are pretty ok, however if you go to specific tourist spots like National Parks, then road suddenly get shit. As soon as you turn off from the main roads, traveling in Uganda become much more difficult. Road conditions are bad and having a driver will save you a lot of stress and hassle. My recommendations is to rent a car with driver for a road trip in Uganda, however it is obviously much more expensive.

When self driving you will also have to deal with the many police checks yourself. In general they won't stop tourist vehicles, but some travelers reported they had to pay small bribes. Corruption is present in Uganda, but in general a tourists should be totally fine.

27. Gas stations in Uganda

Always make sure you have enough fuel for a long journey. In general there is no shortage of gas stations along the route, but plan your Uganda road trip itinerary carefully. For example if you decide to visit Kidepo National Park. It’s a long journey up north and you need enough fuel (including your game drive activities in the national park) since there is no gas station in or around Kidepo Valley National Park. The nearest gas stations are in Kaabong and Kitgum.

28. Languages in Uganda

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Uganda counts more than 40 languages, every tribe speaks their own language. Uniform language especially in and around the famous tourist places in Uganda is luckily English. If you go off the beaten path you could run into places where English is not spoken very well, but in general you shouldn't have any problems communicating with local people.

In general all the Ugandans are very friendly people. It’s impolite to only say ‘Hi!’ So instead use ‘How are you?’. Even children will greet you with ‘How are you?’ They also love to touch your soft ‘Muzungu’ skin.

useful words uganda language

Here are some words in local Uganda language that you could use and local people would totally love it.

29. Things to do and places to visit in Uganda

We already spoke about the Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park , which obviously is the major tourist attraction in Uganda, but there is much more to see and do. The Chimpanzee trekking is another amazing thing to do in Uganda and a must see when you are a wildlife lover are the tree climbing lions. It is a very rare phenomenon but you can see them in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Apart from the stunning wildlife there are some epic waterfalls to visit. A tour to Murchison Falls is a very popular tourist destination and a little more off the beaten path are the Sipi Falls. Just about 80 kilometer East of Kampala you will find the laidback city of Jinja, where you can find the source of the Nile and where white water rafting is the number one thing to do.

A place to visit in Uganda that is popular with backpackers is Lake Bunyonyi. A stunning crater lake with numerous islands. Kayaking and taking in the stunning views while swinging in a hammock are great things to do here. Near Lake Bonyonyi there is Lake Mburo National Park and much more to the Northeast there is Mbale and Kidepo Valley National Park which are popular places to visit in Uganda.

Visiting Uganda is ADVENTURE!

30. Visit Kampala if you dare!

visit kampala

Are you ready for an adventure then definitely don't miss out on visiting Kampala. I totally understand it is not for everyone, but when you want to see some extraordinary city life I recommend you to check it out. Traveltomtom has traveled to more than 155 countries as of January 2024 and has been to only 1 place in the world that can rival Kampala in it terms of craziness: Dhaka, Bangladesh .

The traffic is crazy, the amount of people is insane, yes it is dirty, it is not beautiful, yet I still recommend it. Why? It is a fantastic experience with a dozen impressions on every street corner.

My travel tip for visiting Kampala is to hit up Steve from Free Walking Tours in Kampala and he will show you the best places to visit in Kampala. Also a must when in Kampala is visiting the Gaddafi Mosque, according to Traveltomtom one of the best things to do in Kampala , because you can climb to the top of the minaret and have the most amazing view over Kampala.

31. What to bring to Uganda

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Remember to dress respectfully. Uganda is conservative, so in general it’s better to avoid short skirts or shorts when traveling to Uganda. For women it’s best to bring an over the knee skirt because it’s impolite to wear trousers or shorts while visiting local community. I did wear shorts during day activities like hikes, safaris or boat tours, no problem.

Pack good hiking shoes (Traveltomtom disagrees LOL) for your chimpanzee or gorilla trekkings. Some parts can be very muddy and slippery. It’s also good to pack gaiters, gloves, a rain jacket/poncho and a hat. Although it’s hot wear long trousers and thin long-sleeved shirts to protect your arms and legs from scratches. 

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Long clothing will also help protect you from diseases carried by mosquitoes and other insects such as tsetse flies. In general you should bring a flashlight, daypack, insect repellent, malaria pills for some areas, waterproof bags and an international driving license if you’re thinking of driving yourself.

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Since you will probably meet a lot of children on your way, consider bringing some pencils to give to them (in stead of candies or money).

32. Camera gear and equipment for Uganda

It depends on your interest, but avid photographers and wildlife enthusiasts I recommend to bring the following to Uganda:

  • Descent camera: for example a DSLR with several lenses or a camera with enough optical zoom. What I packed in my photography bag was a Canon 5D Mark IV with a Canon 100-400mm lens , Sigma 70-200mm 2.8 lens and a Canon 16-35mm 2.8 lens .
  • A solid tripod .
  • Enough batteries and memory cards .
  • Binoculars , but many driver guides also have binoculars in their car.

For more about what Traveltomtom takes with him on his travel adventures around the world check out his travel gear list and have a look inside his bag.

33. Quick packing list for Uganda

Here are all the above mentioned items in one Uganda packing list:

  • Over the knee skirt (women)
  • Sarong to wrap around you
  • Rain jacket
  • Long sleeve t-shirt
  • Long trousers
  • Insect repellent
  • Malaria pills
  • UK electricity plug adapter
  • International drivers license
  • Gifts for children
  • Camera gear
  • Extra batteries
  • Memory cards

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With the above travel tips I think I answered the most common questions about traveling to Uganda. Much more about my 3-week trip to the Pearl of Africa you will find in my  Ultimate Uganda itinerary , with things to do and the best places to visit in Uganda. Or check out my  guide for the mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park .

In case this blog was helpful for planning your trip to Uganda please help me in return by sharing the link of this article on the internet. Every share on Facebook, tweet on Twitter or pin on Pinterest is very much appreciated.

Safe travels!

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Chimpanzee

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The source of the Nile river starts in the Rwenzoris, Africa’s tallest mountain range that stretch across western Uganda shrouded in mist and teeming with glaciers, waterfalls and alpine lakes. These ‘mountain’s of the moon’ are the home of Uganda’s mountain gorillas and tracking them through this majestic habitat is one of the country’s most iconic experiences. 

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Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Southwestern Uganda

Home to almost half the world’s surviving mountain gorillas, the World Heritage–listed Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of East Africa’s most…

Waters of Murchison Falls.

Top of the Falls

Once described as the most spectacular thing to happen to the Nile along its 6700km length, the 50m wide Victoria Nile is squeezed here through a 6m gap…

Igongo Cultural Centre

Igongo Cultural Centre

Located 12km from Mbarara on the road to Kampala, this cultural village features the best museum displays in Uganda. Set on the grounds of a former palace…

A rainbow arches over the spectacular Murchison Falls, Uganda, Africa

Murchison Falls National Park

Uganda’s largest national park is one of its very best; animals are in plentiful supply and the raging Murchison Falls, where the Victoria Nile crashes…

Burchell s zebra in Kidepo National Park, a park set in a semi arid wilderness of spectacular beauty in the far north of Uganda, bordering Southern Sudan.

Kidepo Valley National Park

Offering some of the most stunning scenery of any protected area in Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Park is hidden away in a lost valley in the extreme…

Mengo Palace

Mengo Palace

Built in 1922, this small palace is the former home of the king of Buganda, though it has remained empty since 1966 when Prime Minister Milton Obote…

Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

This sanctuary in Lake Victoria is home to around 50 orphaned chimps that have been rescued from elsewhere in Uganda and are being rehabilitated as much…

Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, on Ngamba Island, Lake Victoria, Uganda.

Eastern Uganda

Located 23km southeast of Entebbe in Lake Victoria, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, or 'Chimp Island', is home to over 40 orphaned or rescued…

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Wildlife & Nature

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Researchers have become interested in two creatures with shorter legs who have been discovered in different countries.

Young Eastern Lowland Gorilla (gorilla beringei graueri) is riding on the back of the mother in the green jungle. Location: Kahuzi Biega National Park, South Kivu, DR Congo, Africa. Shot in wildlife.

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Baby gorilla in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

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Looking down over three domes (the biggest in the middle, flanked by two smaller ones) atop the Old Kampala National Mosque; in the distance below are the red roofs carpetting the hills of Kampala

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Planning a Trip to Uganda: Complete Uganda Travel Blog

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This guide to planning a trip to Uganda will explain where to visit in Uganda, the best places to stay, what to do, and other tips.

When I look back on my travels, my favorite trips have all been Africa safaris. I’ve been to Kenya, Tanzania, and Southern Africa.

Most recently, I visited Uganda to see wild chimpanzees and mountain gorillas. The trip was 10 days, included four destinations, and was an absolute bucket list worthy trip.

Uganda is an amazing bucket-list destination for chimpanzee trekking, gorilla trekking, and safari.

Some links on this blog are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them. All opinions are my own, and I only recommend products and services I personally use and believe in. Thanks for your support!

Why Visit Uganda

First, let’s start with why you shouldn’t visit Uganda. If you are visiting sub-Saharan Africa for the first time and want a traditional safari experience, Uganda is not for you.

While the game drives in Uganda are amazing, they can’t compare to wildlife sightings in other countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, and South Africa .

However, if any of the following criteria apply to you, Uganda is the perfect destination:

  • You’ve been on safari and want a unique experience for your next one
  • You’re hoping to see primates in the wild
  • You want to explore off the beaten path, with more active adventures

In Uganda, you will have the unique opportunity to hike to chimpanzees and gorillas, something you cannot do in the previously mentioned countries.

Compared to a classic safari, you will get more exercise and see more rugged destinations. If this appeals you, this Uganda travel blog is for you.

Planning a Trip to Uganda

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Uganda isn’t a simple place to visit and planning a trip to Uganda isn’t a simple task. This Uganda travel blog will break down some of the top tips and considerations for your trip to make the planning much easier.

Getting to Uganda – The international airport in Uganda (EBB) is in Entebbe near the capital city of Kampala. There are direct flights from many countries in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.

If you are coming from the US, the best layovers are in Qatar or Dubai. Once you arrive, the Protea Entebbe hotel by Marriott is a convenient place to stay for one night before you continue to your next location.

Visiting with a Tour Company – I highly recommend visiting Uganda with a company. Especially if you plan to visit many locations in the country. I traveled with Abercrombie & Kent , which is one of the top luxury safari outfitters in Africa.

They plan internal transportation, provide an expert guide, coordinate a private driver, plan activities in each destination, and book hotels for you.  

Visiting on Your Own – The only time I suggest planning a trip to Uganda on your own is if you are visiting only one destination, such as Bwindi, in addition to a larger Africa vacation.

You can coordinate with your lodge to help book internal transportation and other logistics, since they can be complicated and confusing to book without the help of a local.

Where to Visit in Uganda

While Uganda is small, the size of the state Oregon, there are many places worth visiting. Below, I share the top four places to visit. Later on, I’ll break down how to fit these destinations into a ten day itinerary.

Murchison Falls National Park

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Where to Stay – Nile Safari Lodge

The Nile Safari Lodge is one of the nicest hotels I’ve ever stayed at. It was the first hotel we stayed at on our trip, and I was honestly blown away from the moment I walked in.

The common areas are open-air with amazing views of the Nile River. There is also an infinity pool with a swim-up bar, and multiple fire pits.

The rooms are at least 1000 square feet, with a large private balcony, and indoor an outdoor shower, and walls of windows overlooking the river.

In addition to amazing amenities, the service was above an beyond. The staff anticipated our every need including cold towels after game drives, and a morning wakeup call with fresh cappuccinos.

What to Do Near Murchison Falls National Park

I’d recommend visiting Murchison Falls National Park simply to spend a few nights at the Nile Safari Lodge . In addition, there are a few other highlights to this area.

Murchison Falls – You can take a small hike at the falls to see the permanent rainbow, flowing river, and take a “shower” in the mist from the water.

Game Drives – The national park is a decent place for game drives, with the opportunity to see giraffes, elephants, lions, many antelope, and other wildlife.

River Cruise – Since the park borders the Victoria Nile River, take a cruise to see the falls from the water, and see animals such as hippos and crocodiles.

Kibale National Park

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Where to Stay – Kyaninga Lodge

The Kyaninga Resort is a treehouse-style resort perched above a beautiful crater lake in the farmland of Uganda. Atop a large staircase is a communal cabin with a bar, lounge, dining room, and outdoor deck.

From there, take even more stairs to standalone cabins with a full bathroom, private deck, and large bed.

The resort includes access to the lake with swimming, paddleboards, and kayaks. You can also take a three miles scenic walk around the crater.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda

The primary reason to visit Kibale National Park in Uganda is to trek to chimpanzees . Kibale is one of the only places in Uganda where wild chimps have been habituated for human viewing.

Habituation means that the animals have been exposed to humans over a series of months or years, so they learn to tolerate their presence. However, the chimps are still very wild.

Your day of Chimpanzee trekking will begin at the national park’s visitor center. There will be a safety briefing and preview for the day.

From there, you will be separated into groups of up to 12 people with a dedicated tracker. Groups will fan out from the facility to begin tracking the chimps.

The groups spread out to improve the chances of finding the chimps.

Once a tracking group locates the chimps, they will communicate the location with the other groups. After arriving with the chimps, you will have one hour for viewing and photography. The number of chimps will vary from day to day from a single chimp to 20+.

While viewing the chimps, you may see them eating, mating, cleaning themselves, sleeping, or any of their other natural behaviors. Seeing the chimpanzees in the wild is a truly life-changing and humbling experience.

After an hour with the chimps, you will hike back to the visitor center and return to your lodge.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

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Where to Stay – Ishasha Wilderness Camp

Of all the luxury safari lodges in this guide, Ishasha is the most rustic. For some, it’s a great adventure and a fun way to get in touch with nature.

For others, it may lack some of the resources you require, such as hot water and air conditioning. Ishasha is a series of permanent tents that have a king bed, and large bathroom.

There is a communal lodge for dining that has a bar and fire pit.  

The Best Uganda Game Drives

The main reason to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park is for game drives. A game drive is a 2-5 hour drive through the national park in a safari vehicle, trying to spot game such as lions, leopards, elephants, and more.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is also a great place to see the famous tree climbing lions perched in fig trees.

If you are only visiting Uganda on your trip, I recommend visiting this park to get some good game drives in. If you are combining the trip with a stay in Kenya or Tanzania, I’d skip this portion of the trip.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

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Where to Stay – Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp

I’ve stayed in a number of Sanctuary Retreats in Botswana, Zambia, Kenya, and Tanzania. They have all been amazing, and the Gorilla Forest Camp is no different.

The GFC has a large community lodge with dining, a bar, and lounge. There is also a spa and well-stocked gift shop. Each room is a standalone permanent tent that are luxuriously decorated, have a large deck, and have a large bathroom with a shower and tub.

In addition, the service at the lodge is above and beyond. They help with your every need, including cleaning our hiking shoes after a day of trekking, preparing snacks for on-demand happy hour, providing live entertainment around the fire, and more.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The top reason to visit Bwindi, and Uganda in general, is to hike to wild mountain gorillas . Mountain gorillas are native to the impenetrable forest, which crosses the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. There aren’t mountain gorillas anywhere else in the world, even in zoos.

Uganda is the best place to trek to gorillas, with many habituated families, strong conservation policies, and skilled guides. A trekking pass is expensive, but I recommend planning for two days of trekking to improve your chances of sightings.

A day of gorilla trekking will begin in the visitor center, where you will be paired with a team of security, trackers, and a guide. Each group is then assigned to a gorilla family. Trackers and your guide will help locate the family as quickly as possible, but trekking can take anywhere from 30 minutes to seven hours.

Once you find the gorillas, you will spend one hour watching their natural interactions and taking photos. While trekking to Chimpanzees, mentioned above, is amazing, nothing can compare to spending time with these wild gorillas. It is truly one of the best experiences I’ve ever had.

Check out my three day gorilla trekking itinerary for more tips.

Other Things to do in Bwindi

While gorilla trekking is the most popular activity in Bwindi, below are a few other fun things to do.

Visit a School – If you stay at the Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, you can visit a local elementary school that is supported by the resort.

You will have the opportunity to meet the children, speak with the headmaster, and learn about the efforts to improve the education for local children.

Meet a Local Tribe – The local Batwa tribe was pushed out of their home in Bwindi Forest when tourism and gorilla conservation took over the area.

They were traditionally a hunter gatherer tribe, and have now had to adapt to life in the community. The Batwa tribe welcomes tourists to visit their community to learn about their customs, history, and traditions.

Support Humanitarian Projects – There are a variety of projects in Bwindi that support the local community members. You can visit these projects to learn about their efforts, and purchase goods that will provide income to the locals.

Some of these projects include the women’s bicycle project where a group of women sell and repair bikes for local transportation. Another is the Ride 4 a Woman project, where women create woven and sewn crafts for sale, such as baskets, clothing, and decorations.

What to Wear in Uganda on Safari

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I wrote an entire post on what to wear in Uganda , so check that out for a complete packing list and outfit ideas for every occasion on your trip.

In general, you want to stick to comfortable neutral clothes when packing for Uganda. Colors such as beige, brown, and grey are ideal for avoiding insects and blending in with the environment. Comfort is key for long drives, hiking, and other leisure activities.

If you plan to trek with gorillas or chimpanzees, pack hiking equipment to protect yourself for the hikes. Hikes in Bwindi and Kibale include breaking through the jungle, off path, so it is important to come prepared. Some of the essentials to pack are hiking boots , ankle gaiters , and a good hat .

Uganda Travel Guide – 10 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Entebbe and say at the Protea Entebbe for one night

2-3:  Visit Murchison Falls National Park, stay at the Nile Safari Lodge and take game drives, river cruises, and visit the falls

4-5: Visit Kibale National Park to hike with Chimpanzees

6-7: Go to Queen Elizabeth National Park for a couple days of game drives

8-10: Finish in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to trek with gorillas

Potential Trip Extensions from Uganda

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If you are making the effort to travel to Uganda, I highly recommend extending your trip to any of the following destinations.

As I mentioned above, Uganda is the best destination for trekking with primates such as chimpanzees and gorillas. However, Kenya and Tanzania have much better traditional safari. For the perfect mix of both destinations, simply visit both.

My recommended itinerary is two nights in Kigale National Park to hike to Chimpanzees, three nights in Bwindi to hike to Gorillas, then 4 nights in Kenya or Tanzania for game drives.

Tanzania – In Tanzania, I highly recommend staying at the Four Seasons Serengeti . It’s one of my favorite hotels in the world with amazing game drives, an infinity pool that overlooks a watering hole, and stunning rooms. The Serengeti is also arguably the best place in the world for game drives.

Kenya – In Kenya, I love the Sanctuary Olonana . As shared above, I love Sanctuary Resorts. This property is along the Mara River, which borders the Masai Mara Game Reserve. The Masai Mara in Kenya is connected to the Serengeti in Tanzania and has equally great game viewing.

Seychelles – If you prefer to combine a relaxing beach destination with your adventurous trip to Uganda, you cannot beat a few days in the Seychelles. End your Uganda vacation with a few days at the Four Seasons Seychelles to relax by the beach, visit the spa, and unwind from a fantastic, busy vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Uganda

Currency – The currency in Uganda is the Uganda Shilling which is approximately 4,000 to one USD. US dollars are accepted in most tourist locations, but bills must be new and crisp, without stains or tears. I recommend exchanging for a couple hundred dollars of the local currency to use for tips and purchasing small souvenirs.

Language – The official language of Uganda is Swahili, but many people speak three languages: Swahili, English, and their tribal dialect.

Climate – Uganda is very lush and green, with high annual rainfall, high humidity, and moderate temperatures. The temperature often ranges from 60 to 90 degrees year-round.

Entry Requirements – Check your government websites for the most recent information, but Visas are currently required for all US passengers. Visas can be secured online for around $100 and are valid for 90 days from the time of issuance.

Summary of this Uganda Travel Blog

Hopefully by now, this Uganda travel blog has convinced you to plan a trip to Uganda. It is a truly incredible, bucket-list trip. The unique opportunity to hike among primates is extraordinary and is sure to be one of your best travel memories.

Whether you plan to visit for a few days as part of an African adventure, or plan to visit Uganda for 10 days, you will have an amazing vacation.

Related Posts:

  • Ultimate Uganda Packing List – What To Wear In Uganda On Safari
  • Three Day Gorilla Trekking Uganda Itinerary And Adventure Guide
  • Guide To Chimpanzee Trekking In Uganda – How To Prepare And What To Expect
  • The Best Luxury Lodges In Uganda – Where To Stay In Uganda On Safari

Pin for Later:

visit to uganda

  • Guide to Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda: What to Expect
  • 7 Best Family Travel Vloggers to Follow on YouTube (2024)
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Lauren is the creator of The Traveling Moore blog. She's travel obsessed, having been to nearly 50 countries and all 7 continents. She has a full time corporate job, and loves showing others that it's still possible to travel the world with limited PTO hours. Lauren is also travel hacking obsessed, finding every way to travel more often and more luxuriously.

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A Brief Travel Guide to Uganda for First-Timers

With a unique array of tourism destinations to explore, Uganda stands out as an emerging travel destination offering the off-beaten track adventure that many travel enthusiasts are looking for. Whether you are looking forward to visiting the different national parks o going on a mountain gorilla trek to see them in the wild, your first time traveling to Uganda will mesmerize you. Safer than the media portrays and with some of the friendliest people on the planet, this country offers beautiful green countryside, organic food, and a mild climate.

Wanna know more?

Below we have prepared a familiarizing article to destination Uganda to help you plan your trip and fall in love with the country.

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Quick facts about Uganda

Ugandan currency.

The country’s currency is ‘’Uganda Shillings’’; ‘‘UGX’’ is the currency code for Uganda shillings albeit the symbol ‘’USh’’ is used to represent the currency locally. The Bank of Uganda is the only entity with the right to mint, distribute, or destroy currency in Uganda. Coins have denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 shillings. Banknotes have denominations of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, and 50,000 Uganda shillings. 

Besides the Uganda Shillings, other foreign currencies such as dollars, euros, and pounds can be used for payments, especially in large hotels and tour agencies. As of 29 th December 2020, 1 US dollar is equal to around UGX 3,490, 1 pound is equal to around UGX 4,913, and last but not least, 1 Euro is equal to around UGX 4,455. 

Tourists are always advised to change some money to local currency, especially when moving out of the big cities and towns is on the plan as some people, particularly in remote areas (where the country’s national game parks are nestled), will not accept foreign currency for payments. 

Uganda comprises four main ethnic groups, which all have different origins. These include the Bantu, the Nilotics, the Nilo Hamites, and the Hamites. The Bantu, by far the largest in number, include the tribes of Buganda, Banyankole, Basoga, Bakiga, Batoro, Banyoro, Banyarwanda, Bagisu, Bagwere and Bakonjo. There are over 50 tribes in the country with each tribe speaking its own language.

Nevertheless, English, inherited from the colonial period, and Swahili are the official languages of Uganda; the latter was added in 2005. And of course, there is also Ugandan Sign Language. 

Luganda, a central language, is widely spoken across the country, and several other languages are also spoken, including Lango, Acholi, Runyoro, Runyankole, Rukiga, Luo, and Lusoga, among others.

Electricity Plugs

In Uganda, the associated plug type is G, which is the plug that has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Uganda operates on a 240V supply voltage and 50Hz. The electricity system of Uganda is rooted in the British style. 

Where is Uganda

Uganda borders Kenya to its east, South Sudan to the north, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, Rwanda to the south-west, and Tanzania to the south. The southern part of the country includes a substantial portion of Lake Victoria, shared with Kenya and Tanzania. Uganda is mostly located within the African great lakes region, lies within the Nile basin, and has a varied but generally modified equatorial climate. 

Uganda was a disintegrated state with various kingdoms, each with its own ruler and rules till the colonial time that led to the scramble and partition of Africa. 

The British colonial government named it Uganda. And although the main reason for naming it “Uganda” was not revealed, many say that it was derived from Buganda which was then the most dominant and powerful kingdom in the country.  

Main landmarks

Uganda possesses lots of natural physical features like mountains, forests, valleys, and water bodies. The reason why is mainly known as a country gifted by nature. 

Palpably Uganda’s national parks protect its greatest natural treasures, most notably the endangered mountain gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks, the common chimpanzees of Kibale Forest National Park, the unique and unusual tree-climbing lions, and the striking Kazinga Channel of Queen Elizabeth National Park, the great Murchison Falls of Murchison Falls National Park, the snowcapped Rwenzori Mountains of Rwenzori Mountains National Park, the Sempaya hot springs of Semuliki National Park, the varied wildlife and amazing culture of Kidepo Valley National Park, among others. 

Among the other landmarks that Uganda has include the longest river in the world (River Nile) with its source believed to be Jinja, a city in eastern Uganda. The world’s second-largest freshwater lake (Lake Victoria) is also among the special landmarks that this awesome country showcases. 

Is Uganda safe?

visit to uganda

In general, Uganda is a safe country for solo and group travelers and has been stable for its 30 years of independence. However, travelers should always be conscious and very alert, especially with their belongings. There’s petty theft and pickpocketing in major cities, particularly in Kampala the country’s capital.

That said, travelers move from one corner of the country to another without any insecurity occurrence. It was only recently when an American tourist was kidnapped. The predicament was handled in a very majestic manner and was rescued from the kidnappers. Since then the security of tourists has been tightened more than ever. 

Nonetheless, you have to be vigilant. While touring around Uganda like in many other foreign countries, it is advised to move with a local guide or travel through a local tour operator. You should also stay and travel to places known to be safe and occupied by a reasonable number of people. Having the local hotline emergency number to call in case of any issue of insecurity is also a great idea. 

Is Uganda safe for solo travelers?

Uganda is a secure country for solo tourists, groups, and families. That said, it’s advisable to book your holidays with a reliable Uganda tour operator who will be responsible for your stay in the country. Independent movement in Uganda is safe but intrepid travelers should limit movement alone during the daytime and get home early.

Uganda Travel Tips

visit to uganda

Uganda is a beautiful and fantastic country to travel and live in. There are many attractions in the country that travelers can opt to visit during their stay in the ‘Pearl of Africa’. Among them are the endangered mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, baboons, lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and so many other species. 

In a nutshell, here are some of the travel tips travelers should know before traveling to Uganda:

  • Make sure your passport is valid before booking your trip
  • Make your reservations in advance
  • Carry a yellow fever vaccination certificate
  • Be wide awake especially in the busy towns and cities as there can be theft
  • Move with enough money
  • Book a driver guide if you are feeling adventurous
  • Ask your travel agency what shouldn’t miss on your packing list
  • Pack both heavy and light clothes because the weather is unpredictable

Uganda travel tips for beginners

As Uganda is undoubtedly a perfect country for safaris and trips, due to the several attractions it has, beginners and first-timers should bear a few things in mind before stepping into this incredibly beautiful nation:

  • Get your Uganda tourist visa in advance
  • Likewise, booking in advance is highly recommended for a successful trip
  • The dry season (December to February, June to August) is the best time for game viewing
  • On the other hand, the rainy season (March to May, November) is great for bird watching
  • Make sure to get the required vaccinations for Uganda well in advance
  • Research the places you plan to visit in Uganda before going there
  • Get a car rental from an authorized car rental company
  • Know when to make your reservations in Uganda and the amount of money you will use on your trip beforehand. Whether you are hiring a tour company or not – weigh what’s better and more convenient for you – you should have a hint on money and transactions in Uganda 
  • Get a local sim card
  • Download a language app
  • Figure out the best dishes you need to try while there
  • Make sure you understand and follow the road signs
  • Pack accordingly
  • Finally, if you’re going on a chimpanzee or gorilla safari, you should book a chimpanzee or gorilla permit, respectively, through your trusted tour agency. 

How to best travel across the country

The best way to travel around Uganda is to use a local tour operator who will organize the itinerary, transport, accommodation, and meals for you as well as also purchase the various entrance fees and park activities on your behalf. This is the most convenient and safest way to travel. 

On the other hand, you can also choose to rent a vehicle and take a self-drive journey. 

Hiring a private 4WD car is also a great way to travel around Uganda, especially if it is your first time. This will give you the freedom and flexibility to explore the country’s finest destinations – such as Bwindi Impenetrable and Kibale Forest National Parks – at your own pace. 

Finally, hiring a 4WD car together with an experienced and professional driver-guide can also enhance your trip.

When to visit Uganda

Uganda can be visited all year round but most people prefer to visit it is during the dry months of December to February and June to August. During the aforementioned dry months, grasses in the national game parks are shorter compared to how they are during the rainy season and this offers a perfect and fantastic game viewing as well as a clear snapshot of the animals in the jungle. 

However, dry months being the best time to visit Uganda should not play any part in stopping you from visiting Uganda at any time you feel like as the country is always open for tourists. Moreover, traveling in the low season (rainy months) can at times be cheaper than traveling during the peak season (dry months) as hotels in the Parks tend to reduce their rates and tour companies can provide car rentals at better prices than in the peak season.

Where to sleep

Those wishing to visit Uganda’s remarkable national parks like Bwindi and co should know that all Uganda Parks have suitable accommodations that include budget, mid-range, luxury, and high-end lodges and camps – so it will depend on each traveler’s taste! 

On the other hand, there’s usually camping. That way you can set a tent in any of the camping sites in the Park or go with rooftop tent camping and set a tent atop your 4WD Land Cruiser to spend the night atop your car. 

What to eat

Uganda’s staple food is matooke (bananas). Other food crops include cassava, sweet potatoes, Irish potatoes, yams, beans, peas, groundnuts (peanuts), cabbage, onions, pumpkins, and tomatoes. Some fruits, such as oranges, mangoes, guavas, pawpaws, lemons, and pineapples, among others are also grown. 

The most popular food eaten by locals includes matooke (bananas), maize flour, rice, cassava, and potatoes. Meat and fish are also widely available. Rolex (mixture of chapatti and fried eggs) is also eaten by locals across the country and it is one thing you should really try to eat once in Uganda. 

Besides the named foods above, most restaurants in the Parks also serve international dishes. 

What to pack for Uganda

Basic things you should include for your safari in Uganda include a valid passport, yellow fever vaccination, light clothes, heavy clothes, comfortable hiking shoes/boots, enough undies, sun hat and sunglasses, a good camera, music player, chargers, first aid kit (or some emergency tablets like panadol and painkillers), garden gloves, hand sanitizer, enough face masks (needed during pandemic times), insect repellents, sun lotion, a notebook and pen, binoculars, and earplugs.

Best things to do in the country

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Christening it the ‘Pearl of Africa’ wasn’t a mistake. From mountain gorilla and chimpanzee safaris to mountaineering trips, Uganda has so many great things to offer.

Unmissable cities and towns

Must-visit cities and towns include: 

  • Kampala is located in the central, this is the capital city of the country and it comprises attractions such as the Uganda Museum, Namugongo and Munyonyo Martyrs Shrines, Kasubi royal tombs, Kabaka Lake, Gaddafi temple (Uganda National Museum), Saint Mary’s Cathedral Rubaga, Saint Paul’s Cathedral Namirembe, and Kabaka’s (King’s) Palace among others.
  • Jinja – perched in the east of the country, this city is known to be the ‘’most proclaimed source of the Nile’’. Grade 5 white water rafting, kayaking, and visiting the source of the Nile are some of the activities that can be done there.
  • Fort Portal – nestled in the west, this is one of the most touristic towns in the country. Fort Portal is surrounded by several attractions such as Kibale Forest National Park, the Rwenzori Mountains, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Amabeere ga Nyinamwiru, Crater Lakes, Semuliki National Park, and the Tooro Kingdom Palaces.
  • Kisoro and Kabale – located in the southwestern region of the country, these two towns are best known for having the two mountain gorilla refuges of Uganda – Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks. This region protects over half of the total population of mountain gorillas in the world. 

Stunning nature and wildlife

Uganda is an incredibly beautiful country that annually attracts tons of visitors fascinated by its beautiful nature, rich culture, beautiful and vivacious people, exotic wildlife, and rich ecosystems. 

As christened by Sir Winston Churchill, the ‘Pearl of Africa’ features ten remarkably magnificent national parks that are home to a variety of plants, birds, and animal species worth checking out. These parks include; Bwindi Impenetrable, Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, Kidepo Valley, Kibale Forest, Mgahinga Gorilla, Rwenzori Mountains, Mountain Elgon, Semuliki, and Lake Mburo National Parks.

There are so many wildlife species thriving in the above mentioned national parks such as mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, lions, elephants, cape buffaloes, rhinos, hippos, crocodiles, leopards, warthogs, golden monkeys, cheetahs, olive baboons, and so many antelope species like bushbucks, Uganda Kob, waterbucks, Elands, among others. 

Key festivals and culture

Cultural diversity set the tone for the famous festivals of Uganda, a country with a fusion of over 50 ethnic groups and which has a mix of cultures and traditions. 

The country’s festivals are not only related to its ethnic groups but also to Christianism, to which almost eighty percent of the population belongs.

Some of the most popular festivals in Uganda include; the Nyege Nyege Festival, the Kampala Capital City Festival, the Festival of the Uganda Martyrs, Blankets and Wine, Roast and Rhyme, among others.

Additionally, the culture of Uganda is made up of a diverse range of ethnic groups and visitors always wallow in several cultural experiences such as the Batwa Cultural Experience (an experience designed specifically to enrich visitors with the lifestyle of the Batwa Pygmies – also known as the ‘’forest people’’).  

Another traditional experience is the ‘’Imbalu Cultural Ritual’’ – a public circumcision ceremony practiced by the Bagisu people of Eastern Uganda. 

Road tripping Uganda

visit to uganda

Epic road trips in Uganda are becoming popular and there are some important things to bear in mind to have a safe adventure across the country. 

The highways in Uganda are quite nice and almost all the roads in big cities and towns are paved and in reasonably good shape. However, in remote areas some roads are not always in good condition – that’s why you’re advised to hire a powerful 4X4 vehicle if you’re planning to visit the Parks. 

Proposal itinerary for 1 week in Uganda

In most cases an itinerary is designed for you depending on your key interests; what you want to see and do most. Some visitors are gorilla enthusiasts, others are chimpanzee lovers, others are generally nature lovers, well as others are wildlife avids, others are hikers and mountaineers, and others are birders. So an itinerary will be designed for you depending on what you fancy most. 

Meanwhile, take a look at our proposed itinerary for one week in Uganda.

Day One – Arrive at the airport and transfer to Murchison Falls National Park (break off at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary).

Day two – Morning game drives and afternoon boat cruise beneath the Murchison Falls.

Day three – Hiking to the top of Murchison Falls and transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

Day four – Chimpanzee tracking/chimpanzee habituation

Day five – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park (evening game drives)

Day six – Lion tracking and morning game drives, searching for tree-climbing lions, and evening boat cruise.

Day seven – Return to Kampala for a flight back home (a city tour if you have time).

Proposal itinerary for 2 weeks or more in Uganda

Day one – Pick up at the airport and a Kampala city tour

Day two – Transfer to Jinja City, zip lining and white water rafting at the source of the Nile

Day three – Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park (stopover at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary)

Day four – Morning game drives and boat cruise

Day five – Hiking to the top of Murchison Falls and transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

Day six – Chimpanzee tracking

Day seven – Visiting the crater lakes and transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Day eight – Morning game drives (lion tracking) and afternoon boat cruise

Day nine – Searching for the tree climbing lions in Ishasha and transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Day ten – Mountain gorilla trekking and transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Day eleven – Golden monkey trekking and transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

Day twelve – Boat cruise and transfer to Lake Mburo National Park (evening game drive)

Day thirteen – Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park

Day fourteen – Game drives and return back to Kampala

Uganda is a fantastic country to visit; its nature is stunning, its people are welcoming, and the varied wildlife stands out as the most attractive part of this beautiful country. These days, the country is peaceful and stable and it can be visited throughout the year by tourists, regardless of citizenship and gender – Uganda is safe and open for everyone!

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I, Wanderlista

The Ultimate Uganda Itinerary – 12 Adventurous Days in Uganda

Uganda itinerary

Home > Uganda

If you plan on visiting Uganda, here is the best Uganda itinerary for your trip to the Pearl of Africa! Planning a trip to Uganda might not be the easiest task, so I hope this Uganda itinerary will give you a good idea of where to stay, what to do and when to do it! This Uganda itinerary is exactly what we did when we spent 12 days in Uganda, traveling with our driver Godfrey from Roadtrip Uganda. I wrote a few more articles on our trip to Uganda, and you can find all of them right here .

Uganda Itinerary

Day 1 – travel day.

Start your Uganda itinerary towards Entebbe, Uganda. Before you travel, don’t forget the following:

  • Yellow fever vaccination: $60 per person (do it at least 1 month prior to departure, but consult in your own country. You must have this when applying for a visa)
  • Tourist visa: $50 per person (takes max 3 working days, apply on https://visas.immigration.go.ug/. You need passport valid 6 months from departure, passport photo & yellow fever vaccination)
  • Malaria pills: $25 per person with a prescription cost
  • Return flights $470 /person
  • Uganda Gorilla permit $700 /person 
  • Only during the pandemic: CPR test for corona with a travel certificate: $160 per person

Costs per person before arrival: $1465 USD

The prices above are what we paid to travel to Uganda from Sweden. We did all the above vaccinations and tests in Sweden.

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SIM CARD: We also bought an MTN SIM card at the airport: Sim card with 10GB data 75 000 + 5000 for sim + 1400 for 1-week activation for social media. In Uganda, the government charges the usage of WhatsApp, Facebook and similar, UGX 200 per day. We always buy one SIM card and share the hotspot with each other. Always cheaper to buy a SIM with more data, instead of two with less.

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Day 2 – Entebbe

Regardless of when you arrive, I recommend you spend your first night of this Uganda itinerary in Entebbe. There are a few fun things to see here and you will see Kampala at the end of this trip anyway!

Entebbe is a quiet pleasant town and next to the airport. We booked a night at Via Via, a budget to mid-range place with a lovely vibe. We arranged a pick up from the airport with them directly and it was all hassle-free!

To do in Entebbe

Book a car for the afternoon (through your accommodation) and have the driver take you to Entebbe Botanical Garden, Reptile Village and the Entebbe Market for a Rolex and then back to the hotel.

Here is what our day in Entebbe cost us:

Car round-trip: $16 USD

Botanical Garden entrance fee + guide: $5 /pax

Reptile Village: $4 /pax

Sleep: Viavia in Entebbe.

Cost: $80 for 1 night/2 people, $10 airport transfer

Entebbe Botanical Garden 19

Day 3 – Lake Mburo National Park

Now that you’ve managed to get a small taste of Uganda you can start your real adventure! Book a car, with or without a driver, at Roadtrip Uganda . We decided to book a car with a tent and a driver. We love chatting to drivers about life as a local and observe, instead of drive. Uganda is, however, a great self-drive destination if that’s more up your alley!

Godfrey, our driver, picked us up at Via Via at 9 am. We did some shopping for our camping night and started our journey towards Lake Mburo National Park . We made a stop at the equator and reached Lake Mburo NP, just in time for an afternoon game drive. I highly recommend you camp in the park!

Entrance fees:

  • $40 USD for adult non-residents (tourists)
  • $10 USD for children non-residents (tourists)
  • $30 USD for foreign residents
  • $5 USD for East African Citizens (this is the rate you will pay for your driver)
  • $8 USD for your rental vehicle per (multiple) day visit
  • $10 USD camping permit

Sleep: UWA public campsite.

Cost: approx $10

Lake Mburo National Park 88

Day 4 – Horseback Safari

After we woke up from our night under the stars, we had some breakfast and started our morning game drive in Lake Mburo National Park. We had booked a horseback safari at noon and had a good couple of hours of a game drive before we arrived at Mihingo Lodge.

Sleep: Rwakobo Lodge.

Cost: $160 for two with full-board. (we felt this place was not worth the price, so if you find something else, go for that instead)

Horseback safari Africa 4

Day 5 – Culture Village Tour

Do an early morning culture village tour, organised by Rwakobo Rock or another accommodation. Alternatively, you could go on a walking safari as well as Lake Mburo is one of the few places where you can do a walking safari as there are no big predators like lions. While we didn’t enjoy our stay at Rwakobo so much, we did like the cultural walk. We met the family who provides the milk and yoghurt to the lodge and really enjoyed seeing how locals live and learn about their tribe and way of living.

After the culture walk, start your drive towards Mutanda Lake Resort , your starting point for gorilla trekking! Stop by Lake Bunyonyi for lunch and make sure you relax and prepare for your trek the next day.

Culture walk: $10 /pax

Sleep: Lake Mutanda Resort.

Cost: From $130 for a single B&B. Rates here .

Uganda Culture Village 17

Day 6 – Gorilla Trekking

Wake up bright and early, eat breakfast and start making your way towards Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Because there is so much to know about this experience, I wrote a separate blog post about it and you can see all the information you’ll need in this article . We returned from our trek at around 15.00 and spent the rest of the day relaxing at the resort.

Gorilla trekking: $600 /pax

Porter: $15

Tip for trackers: $15

Gorilla Trekking Uganda

Want more details on doing a gorilla trek in Uganda? Check out this article:

Gorilla Trekking Uganda – Everything You Need To Know

Day 7 – mutanda lake resort.

This is the one and only day on this Uganda itinerary when you can focus only on relaxing! I think a day like this is necessary during longer travels with many experiences. And there is no better way to spend a day like this than at Mutanda Lake Resort. Swim, rent a canoe, drink a couple of local beers and take the day to reflect on what you’ve experienced so far.

Mutanda Lake Resort 81

Day 8 – Ishasha Sector

After a nice relaxing day, you’ll start heading towards new adventures again! Start the drive towards the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP, you’ll arrive in time for a game drive in the afternoon. Test your luck and see if you can spot the tree-climbing lion! We didn’t have much luck on the afternoon safari, though.

Sleep: Enjojo Lodge. Can highly recommend staying here, it’s beautiful!

Cost: $150 for a beautiful safari house, dinner and breakfast. (we got a free upgrade).

Ishasha National Park 23

Day 9 – Queen Elizabeth National Park

Wake up bright and early and head to Ishasha for a morning game drive. If you didn’t spot the tree climbing lions the day before, you can take this as another opportunity to see if you see them now! Then, whilst game driving, move to the Kazinga channel section of Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you will also camp for the evening.

  • $8 USD for your rental vehicle per (multiple) day visit.

Sleep: Camp at the UW public campsite at Kazinga Channel.

Ishasha National Park 60

Day 10 – Travel to Kampala

The benefit of camping in a National Park, is that you get to start a morning safari early! So head towards the main entrance and start the last game drive of the day. Try to spot leopards, hyenas and lions, amongst others. After you’re done with the game drive, at around 11, head towards Kampala. This will be a full day drive, so make sure you buy some snacks for the road.

Sleep: Villa Kololo

Cost: $70 per night

Queen Elizabeth National Park 33

Day 11 – Kampala

After breakfast, we headed back to our room and booked a boda boda tour for Kampala. This is the best way to see as much of the city as possible, without having to plan how to get where and when. We booked the Walters Tours Boda Boda Tour here and it was super fun! Their drivers were responsible, safe and very informative and we did a 4-hour tour with them.

Boda boda tour: $50 for two people.

Kampala Uganda 75

Day 12 – Travel Day

Check out from your hotel in Kampala and book a driver via your hotel or via Uber to the airport. The traffic can be horrible in Kampala so make sure you leave the city in good time.

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I hope this 12 days Uganda itinerary helped you make our plans for your visit to this Pearl of Africa. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to comment or email me, I will be happy to help you out with any questions you might have!

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Wednesday 21st of April 2021

The natural beauty of Uganda is breath taking! I love seeing all the animals! Thanks so much for such a thorough breakdown with pricing so we can get a better idea.

Thursday 22nd of April 2021

It's so lush and nice! I'm happy the itinerary can help you plan the trip in the future!

Oh my, Uganda looks as amazing as I'd imagined. I have wanted to go on both a safari and see gorillas too - so Uganda seems like the perfect place to do both.

For sure, it's the best place to go gorilla trekking!

Wow what a great itinerary. The country looks beautiful. It's great that you detailed the cost of the trip so it makes it easier for me to plan my budget in the future.

I'm happy you liked it and found it helpful for your future travels!

Team Traveling Tiny

Wow, Uganda! Seems beautiful, I had no idea. What about the area had you choose Uganda as opposed to another area in Africa that is a bit easier to get to/plan for?

I had a friend who used to live there that put the country on the map for me! She loved it there so I figured I'll have to visit one day & I'm glad I did! It was great :)

No Back Home

10 Excellent Tips for Planning a Trip to Uganda

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One of the most awe inspiring bucket list trips you can make is to Uganda. Dubbed the Pearl of Africa, this underrated country offers unique and diverse wildlife viewing, year round beautiful weather and extraordinary hospitality. It is a trip like no other, but requires quite a bit of preparation, especially if you are here to see the world’s remaining mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Below we share our top Uganda travel tips that you will need to prepare for a trip to Uganda.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Jump to a Heading Below

Uganda: A Brief Introduction

Uganda is a landlocked country located in East Africa. It shares borders with Rwanda, Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Sudan, Kenya and across Lake Victoria, Tanzania. Uganda is located on the equator, which means pretty moderate weather year round.

Many visitors come to Uganda specifically for the opportunity to see mountain gorillas in the wild . There are no mountain gorillas in any zoo in the world, so if you want to see the last remaining mountain gorillas in the world, you will need to visit either Uganda, Rwanda or the DRC. In the recent past, Uganda has been the most stable of the three countries and has the greatest population of mountain gorillas, making it the ideal destination for outdoor and animal enthusiasts. What many do not know is it is also a great place to go on safari to see other wildlife including chimpanzees, rare birds and all the other “Big 5” which are spread out throughout the country. 

International flights arrive to Entebbe International Airport, even though Kampala is the capital of the country. English is the official language of the country and the Ugandan Shilling is the official currency. Even though English is the official language, there are many other languages throughout the country.

Is it Safe to Visit Uganda?

The first thing everyone asked when I said I was going to Uganda was “is it safe”. Uganda is generally considered to be a safe country with low crime rates. During our visit, we all felt safe at all times, including when we were leaving the airport at 4 a.m., getting a local taxi. Good Uganda tips are to use your best judgement on showing valuables while walking around and to ask locals for their views on the safety of specific areas.

That said, Uganda does border countries that do experience levels of unrest, so it is best to always stay up to date on the latest information when traveling near the South Sudan border region and Karamoja in the very north.

Best Time to Travel to Uganda

Standing in front of a bush plane in Uganda

Even though the summer months are considered the high season, in general it is still not crowded at all. Besides gorilla trekking, we saw very few tourists.  The most challenging months to visit Uganda are March, April and May. Like I mentioned above, because of the wet season traveling around can get a little more complicated with roads and nature trails in poor conditions.

Also note that places like Lake Bunyonyi, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Queens National Park, etc can get cold at night even in summer due to their higher altitudes. During our visit, we never needed anything other than a light long sleeve.

Getting Around Uganda Tips

Your budget and the amount of time you have in Uganda will be big factors in how you get around the country. During our short visit we had a private driver/car through our tour operators, but we also took two internal “bush” planes to get us to/from rural areas more quickly. 

The roads in Uganda are not amazing, but also not horrific, but many people would not be comfortable riding in the safari jeeps for 8-10 hours when they could easily take a 2 hour bush flight.  I will say that the timings of the bush planes are very lax, so you need to make sure you have plenty of time between your flights and a healthy appetite of patience. Our first bush plane was set to leave at 10 a.m., but then was rescheduled before our arrival to noon. We did not end up taking off until after 2 p.m. With the amount of time we spent waiting for our flight, we could have driven to our destination. This is something to keep in mind if you don’t mind driving long distances. 

Local Transportation Options

During our visit we took local taxis (which were not cheap), walked and had our private driver. There are local buses, boda bodas (motorcycle taxis) and shared buses that can get you around the country fairly easily with time, however there is not an extensive public transportation system. I have heard there is Uber and a local operator Bolt. Of course these are only going to be available in major towns, but are good options to know about. 

Self Drive vs Hiring a Driver

Some independent travelers hire their own car and drive themselves doing a road trip around Uganda. That is totally doable, but I do not know how well the road signage is or how reliable Google maps is, as service is spotty throughout the country. 

We met a couple on safari who hired a driver and car for their entire 3 week holiday. They said the daily rate was around $80 per day. This meant they always had a guide while driving through the parks as well as someone to explain local traditions, etc. While overall not cheap, it does save time and some expense when you do not have to fly. Funny enough they booked through Rent a Driver in Uganda which gets rave reviews. 

Places to Visit in Uganda

This post isn’t an in-depth review of where to go in Uganda, but in general if you are looking to plan your trip there are a few regions of the country to consider. One of the best things to do is gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park , where there are also nature hikes and other flora and fauna to see. Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge is another amazing thing to do in Uganda that we didn’t expect to love so much. To continue on your animal safari adventures, you can go on game drives in search of tree climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Another Uganda tip is to take a boat ride on the Kazinga Channel as it is filled with wildlife up close!

For those who want even more wildlife and epic waterfalls too, a visit to Murchison Falls is a must visit. This is the only destination in the country that you will see giraffes. For the adventure crowd, you will want to visit the source of the Nile, where white water rafting is the thing to do. This is located in the chilled city of Jinja. 

Lake Bunyonyi, a stunning crater lake with numerous islands is popular with the backpacking crowd these days. Near Lake Bunyonyi there is also Lake Mburo National Park and to the northeast there is Mbale and Kidepo Valley National Park which are also popular places to visit in Uganda.

Organizing Gorilla Trekking Permits

Mountain gorilla in Uganda

Note that permits are non-refundable and non-transferable, so make sure you know when you will be traveling. The ideal is to provide your hotel or travel agent with a span of dates you can do the gorilla trek so they can have maximized opportunity to get your permits.

Additionally, you can book your permits online with the Uganda Wildlife Authority . I do still recommend booking through your hotel though as the price will be exactly the same – currently $700 for one permit and you can ensure that you will have accomodation that is near to your permit location. (There are several locations in which treks start from – 

Age requirements for Permits

In order to go gorilla tracking you need to be at least 15 years of age. However we did hear that there are occasionally exceptions made. With that said, I would say that there is a reason that they have an age limit – the hikes are quite strenuous, the situation with the gorillas is quite fluid and requires children to act more like adults, be nimble and to listen very carefully to the guides instructions. To be honest it is a little scary at times being so close to these majestic, but still wild animals. They are predictable only to a certain degree, so a level of caution is advised when considering taking young children.

What Vaccinations Do You Need for Uganda?

Currently to enter Uganda you need to provide proof of yellow fever vaccination and COVID vaccinations (or negative test). It is a good idea to do this as early as possible as you will need to upload your Yellow Fever certification when applying for your visa online.

In Uganda, they do check your Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate multiple time coming in and out of the airports.

While there are no other mandatory vaccinations, I would also recommend getting a prescription for anti-malarials, updating your typhoid and any other travel vaccinations as needed. Often recommended are Hepatitis A and B as well as rabies. I do not have my rabies vaccination, but if you have the time and money, it is useful anytime you are traveling in developing countries with an abundance of stray animals. 

Currently (Aug 2022) the only COVID requirement to enter is that you must present your COVID vaccination. If you make it into the country without this (or a negative test) they do offer Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccinations at the airport in Entebbe. As always, these things change quickly, so check regulations for the latest entry and exit requirements. 

Overall, you will not see a ton of people with masks on, however they will be required when visiting the gorillas. 

Is Malaria A Problem in Uganda?

There is a high risk of malaria throughout the country and therefore all Uganda travel guides will recommended you to take malaria medication. Our hotel and travel guides highly recommended taking malaria pills, so our entire group opted to take them. In general, I tend to avoid taking them if I can, but since it was my first trip to Uganda, I was not sure what the situation would be like on the ground.

For our trip, in the dry summer months, we had zero issues with mosquitos. I did not see one at anytime and none of us even got a bite. That said, all of our hotels had mosquito nets over the beds, so I do believe it is typically more of an issue. You can use your best judgement on whether you need them or not. 

The best guard against mosquito borne diseases is to protect yourself from mosquito bites in the first place. There are other diseases transmitted by mosquitoes that are not covered by your malarial medications, so try to avoid getting bit by using insect repellent.  We highly recommend spraying all of your clothes with permethrin spray . This will protect you from getting bites through your clothes without having to slather yourself in DEET. If possible wear long sleeves and long pants during the morning and evening hours. 

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Uganda?

Yes, almost all countries will need a visa when traveling to Uganda.  We highly recommend getting your E-Visa prior to arrival. You can easily do this for $50 online through Uganda Immigration . This is the only authentic application portal for Uganda visas. Note, that occasionally their system will give errors for credit cards. I suggest trying again another day or try another credit card. I did not have any issues, but one of our group did. 

When flying to Uganda, an e-visas is mandatory. The Uganda e-visa is quick and easy, but also a little work as it is required to upload a copy of your passport photo page, a recent passport-size photograph and your yellow fever vaccination certificate to their website in a small format.

When you arrive to the airport, you must have the printed confirmation of your E-visa handy to provide to the immigration officer. They will then print out a full page sticker (with your photo!) for your passport. It does take a little time, but overall is quick and easy. 

Eastern African Community Single Tourist Visa

If you are planning to travel to Kenya and Rwanda on the same trip the Eastern African Community tourists visa is worth applying. This visa is a single entry tourist visa for these three countries, but within its borders it is multiple entry. It cost $100 and is valid for 90 days. As soon as you leave one the 3 countries, it loses its validity. 

Budget for Traveling to Uganda

If you have ever been to Africa, you will know that even though many countries are developing countries, it is not super cheap and not that easy to budget travel. I have not successfully budget traveled to Africa, but I do know that it is possible. I plan to take my son back soon and we will try to be much more budget conscious.

In general, know that your trip to Uganda is going to be pretty pricey. From accommodation to permits and excursions and drivers, things add up quickly. Gorilla permits are $700 plus tips to guides and porters, a rafting trip on the Nile can cost anywhere from $80-$140 for a day trip, etc. 

There are some things I would splurge on though if you can – that is getting good quality drivers and guides if your main aim is to spot wildlife. 

Tipping in Uganda

Tipping is normal and expected all over Uganda. One of the best Uganda tips I can provide is to budget this into your travel experience and know that you will be handing out cash all over the place. Many locals do accept USD, but tipping in Ugandan Shilling is also highly prefered. You should have plenty of $5 and $10 bills handy for tipping guides, drivers, hotel staff and more depending on the budget level of your accommodation and services. In luxury accomodations, tips are higher for all aspects of the travel. 

The average monthly income in Uganda is anywhere from $140 USD to $280 USD, so tipping a few US dollars for good service will make locals so happy. After a particularly gruelling hike where our porters carried our bags for more than 7 miles, our generous tips produced much happiness. 

Packing for Uganda Travel

trekking for mountain gorillas in Uganda

But given that we had that requirement, we traveled very lightly and honestly didn’t need anything more than what we brought!

What to pack for Uganda (specifically focused on Gorilla Trekking)

When packing for a trip here, our top Uganda tips are that you observe the conservative nature of the country if you have plans to visit rural villages. Ideally, women would not wear short shorts or skirts or bikini strap tank tops. In highly touristic areas, this is more acceptable. 

I would recommend my typical packing list in general for a trip to Uganda, however there are a few things that I would highlight especially if you are planning on trekking to see the gorillas. 

  • Rain gear – This is especially important if you travel to Uganda during the shoulder or rainy season.
  • Ankle supporting hiking boots – I did not have ankle boots and I was fine for the most part.  It would have made it a bit easier on some of the treks where my boots got caught in the tree branches underfoot, but otherwise I was comfortable. Your shoes do need to be waterproof or quick drying as you will encounter mud and water. 
  • Hiking Poles – You will have to check a bag if you bring poles, but I was very happy to have mine multiple times during both the chimpanzee trek and gorilla trek. 
  • Abrasion Resistant Pants are great for bushwhacking which will be required for the treks. I loved these pants .
  • Wool shirts will do great in the heat. It kept me cool, warm, and the sun off of my arms while on our treks. Also, it doesn’t smell easily so I could pack very lightly with minimal clothes. Read more about why wool is the best travel fabric here.
  • Camera with 70-200 lens. This was the most important part of my packing decisions. I decided to rent a camera and a lens to ensure that I had the best quality gear even when I couldn’t afford to purchase it outright! I took a 70-200 lens 2.8 that was amazing. I would have loved a longer zoom at times, but for the most part you are close enough to the animals that this was perfect. 
  • Extra SIM cards and batteries. I ran out of space on my SIM cards and my friend ran out of batteries. Take lots of extras!
  • Battery packs – you are in the car for long periods of time, taking a ton of photos, looking at your phone, etc so you will need extra battery packs.

Note for Global Nomads: Wifi Access & Facebook 

While having Wifi may not be of much concern to many folks, if you are planning to work while you are in the country, you do need to know that the WiFi is not great, even in high-end lodges. Often the WiFi is only accessible in the lobby areas and will be heavily trafficked by the other guests. I would not count on being able to do intensive internet based work while visiting Uganda.

Also note that in 2021, Facebook and Instagram were blocked in Uganda, because of a dispute between Facebook and the Ugandan Government. When I visited in the summer of 2022, I made a comment to our guide that Facebook would never load properly and that is when we found out that Facebook is still officially blocked, but that it does occasionally work. Instagram and WhatsApp both worked well, just not Facebook.

—————–

Note, one of our most important Uganda tips is that you travel with travel insurance. For this trip I used SafetyWing  which was affordable and covered all the activities I planned to engage in. 

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10 tips for planning a trip to Uganda

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Swimming in crater lakes in Uganda

Top 20 things to do in Uganda – the definitive list!

Uganda has so much to offer beyond just trekking to see mountain gorillas. We're talking amazing wildlife, adrenaline activities, hiking and waterfalls, cultural experiences, and more! Here are our top 20 things to do in Uganda.

Uganda is one of the most exciting and beautiful holiday destinations in the world. Whether you are wowed by landscapes, wildlife, culture, or simply seek adventure – Uganda is the perfect destination for you.

But don’t just take our word for it. Read our list of the top 20 things to do in Uganda and see if you don't agree with us! (We're in good company, by the way, in making this claim, as in 1907 Winston Churchill dubbed Uganda the Pearl of Africa !)

1. Go mountain gorilla trekking

Number one on our list of things to do in Uganda is gorilla trekking. If you're looking for adventure, you can't get any better than this! Get up close and personal with mountain gorillas in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park . 

Gorilla trek group photo

Our clients Amber and Scott with their Bwindi Forest trek crew

Only a handful of people get to spend time with wild mountain gorillas in their natural habit, because there are roughly only 720 left on the planet. 

Gorilla trekking is therefore both a fascinating and truly unique experience, one that's understandably at the top of many people's bucket lists! Here are 20 more things to know about mountain gorilla trekking .

There would be a youtube video here.

2. Visit endangered rhinos

Due to poaching (the very last wild rhino in the country was killed in 1982) you won't spot rhinos in Uganda's national parks. But the good news is that there are several white rhinos living happily in the expansive Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

The sanctuary was started in 2005 by the rhino reintroduction project, and profits from visitors go towards the breeding programme and their eventual release into the wild! These endangered, magnificent creatures are free to move around on 7,000 ha of land.

Black rhinos

Black rhinos in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Watch them at close range on a one- to two-hour trek whilst they roam in their natural habitat. This is a spectacular African experience not to be missed!

3. Canoe on Lake Bunyonyi

Believed to be the second deepest lake in Africa, Lake Bunyonyi is one of the country’s top natural treasures. Hence why it's also on our list of the top 20 things to do in Uganda!

The lake is framed by lush, terraced hills, but it’s the 29 islands of various shapes and sizes scattered across the water that make it most magical.

visit to uganda

Canoe in traditional dugout canoes

Its the perfect place to relax, explore the neighbourhood on a quad bike or go bird watching. The word bunyonyi in the local language actually means 'birds', and yes, you guessed right – it's thus called because the lake is home to an extremely broad range of bird species! Get your camera ready and check out those stunning views.

Lake Bunyonyi

Bunyonyi contains 29 islets, giving it a memorably different look to most lakes

Hop on traditional Ugandan wooden boats and paddle to one of the Lake Bunyonyi's many hidden islands, one of which has a small adventure park including a zip line!

And don't forget to bring your swimsuit. Lake Bunyonyi is known as one of the few lakes in Uganda free of bilharzia (a common parasite found in southern Africa), making its waters safe for swimming. Yippee! It’s also free of dangerous wildlife like hippos and crocodiles. Even bigger yippee.

4. Go on safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park

If you consider yourself a bit of a nature buff, you've probably heard about the Queen Elizabeth National Park . It's the most popular tourist attraction in Uganda and the most visited national park – and we can see why! It's home to 96 species of mammals, including lions, buffaloes, warthogs, hippos, crocodiles and elephants. You can spot them all at close range.

lioness in tree in Uganda

A lion takes it easy in a tree in Queen Elizabeth National Park

What's more, you can see the park's tree-climbing lions! Very few African lions climb trees. Nobody knows for sure why a handful of lion populations in Uganda and Tanzania go up trees when their brethren don't. Some think they climb trees in order to avoid tsetse fly bites. Others believe it's a way of them escaping the heat on the ground. Whatever the real reason, they look rather comfy!

5. Take a boat safari on Kazinga Channel

A narrow stretch of water connecting Lake Edward and Lake George, this channel is among the most important features in the Queen Elizabeth National Park and can't be missed!

Kazinga Channel Queen Elizabeth National Park Uganda safari

Kazinga Channel is always buzzing with wildlife

The park is known for being home to the world’s largest concentration of hippos, who happen to live side by side with Nile crocodiles. Wouldn't want to fall in that water, that's for sure!

Taking a boat cruise down the channel is a great way to keep you distance yet still see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

hippopotamus in mud with bird on back

Kazinga Channel is full of hippos

6. Visit the salt pans of Lake Katwe

Lake Katwe is a traditional salt-mining lake known for its high-quality salt. Small salt mines make a pretty pattern on the edge of the lake. We recommend popping by on your way to Queen Elizabeth National Park to see how the local community mines the salt.

FYI, the lake was formed in the aftermath of a violent volcanic eruption.

A local woman walks among the salt ponds of Lake Katwe in Uganda | Top 20 things to do in Uganda

Pans of water on the edge of Lake Katwe which are being mined for salt | Image: Pérsida Díaz

7. Explore the town of Entebbe and its surrounds

Entebbe is a small, green and laidback town on the shore of Lake Victoria. It's a fantastic hub for adventure sports, exploring nature and cultural pursuits.

And bonus: Entebbe International Airport is just next door! This makes it the perfect overnight stop on your way in or out of Uganda.

Sunset view of Mabamba Swamp from a little wooden fishing boat, Entebbe, Uganda

Sunset view of Mabamba Swamp just outside of Entebbe

Some of the activities you can go in Entebbe include:

  • horse riding
  • visiting Entebbe Botanic Gardens
  • shopping at the craft markets
  • mountain biking
  • visiting Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary (which protects orphaned chimps)
  • exploring the impressive Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre
  • and much more!

Shoebill stork (bird) in Entebbe's Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre

A resident shoebill stork at Entebbe's Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre

8. Have fun on Lake Victoria

While in Entebbe, you have to make the most of Lake Victoria! This majestic expanse of water is shared by Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya. Spending time on the waters of Lake Victoria is most definitely on our list of the top 20 things to do in Uganda!

Fishermen on the shore of Lake Victoria

Fishermen on the shore of Lake Victoria

Some popular activities include:

  • sunrise or sunset canoeing
  • playing volleyball
  • swimming at Lido Beach

Sunset on lake Victoria

Sunset over Lake Victoria

Did you know that Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa and the chief reservoir of the White Nile?

9. Explore the city of Kampala

Northeast of Entebbe, Kampala is a dynamic and engaging city with a rich and colourful history. Visiting the capital city adds yet another flavour to your Uganda experience and you get to see one more side of real Africa!

Kampala group photo temple Dan Uganda

Selfie time in front of Kampala's famous Baha'i House of Worship

Our local leader can take you to a local restaurant or bar in the evening which can be an adventure in itself! If you've enough time, also be sure to check out the Kasubi Tombs, the resting place of four kings of Buganda and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Uganda-Kampala-View.jpg

A view over the city of Kampala, Uganda's capital

We also recommend dinner at Ndere Cultural Centre, where guests are treated to a traditional dance performance.

10. Hike to Sipi Falls

The picture below speaks for itself, right?

Sipi Falls with lush bush all around | 20 top things to do in Uganda

The beautiful Sipi Falls

Just a short drive from Kampala, Sipi Falls in Mount Elgon National Park is a series of three tall waterfalls cascading in a 99 m drop along the lower slopes of Mt Elgon.

There are different hikes you can take, all starting from the small trading centre of Sipi. If you're feeling ambitious, it's possible to undertake a day hike from the main waterfall to the three smaller falls that lie upstream, one of which has a beautiful swimming pool at its base. Be sure to pack your bathing suit!

You can also abseil the cliff face alongside the main waterfall – a must for thrill-seeking travellers!

Sipi Falls abseiling Uganda

Over the edge we go!

11. Adventure activities in Jinja

Uganda really is the perfect place to get your adventure on, and the small colonial town of Jinja is the country's adventure capital!

Rushing Nile River flowing past thatched roof in Jinja, Uganda

Jinja is where the White Nile flows out of Lake Victoria

Many consider Jinja to be the true source of the Nile! It's an incredibly beautiful spot, and we recommend spending at least a couple of nights here, raising your adrenaline in the day, and relaxing by the shore in the evenings.

Some of the exciting adventure activities on offer in or near Jinja are:

  • white-water rafting
  • bungee jumping
  • quad biking

The town itself presents beautiful colonial-era architecture and a buzzing local community.

Man tubing on the River Nile in Jinja

One of our favourite Jinja-based activities is tubing on the River Nile!

12. Visit Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls became one of Uganda’s first national parks in 1952. It's the largest national park in Uganda and one of the best destinations for those interested in the country’s wildlife. 

Murchison Falls | Top things to do in Uganda

The glorious Murchison Falls from above

Today, you can expect to see elephants, crocodiles, endangered giraffes (more on these below), leopards, hartebeests, oribis, Uganda kobs, buffalos, hippos, antelopes and waterbucks. That's a long list!

The park is also home to 460 species of birds, including the shoebill stork.

And of course a visit to Murchison Falls would not be complete without a visit to the falls themselves up close in person. You can do this on an unforgettable boat cruise.

Murchison Falls Uganda

The equally glorious view from below

13. Meet Rothschild's giraffes

Rothschild's giraffes comprise one of the smallest populations of giraffes in the world. It's estimated that there are only around 1,600 of them left in the wild. It's IUCN status is "near threatened". These giraffes can be found in just Kenya and Uganda.

Rothschild's giraffe in long grass

Rothschild's giraffes are easy to identify as they look like they're wearing knee-high white socks

Murchison Falls National Park is home to the largest population of Rothschild's giraffes. Rothschild's giraffes are actually one of the tallest giraffes, able to grow to almost 6 m tall!

Did you know that a giraffe's heart is about two feet long and weighs roughly 11 kg?!

Rothschild's giraffe among very green trees in Murchison Falls National Park

Rothschild's giraffes can be found throughout Murchison Falls National Park

Fun fact: a group of giraffes is called a tower of giraffes. How appropriate!

14. Zip line through Mabira Forest

Mabira Central Forest Reserve is just 44 km east of the capital of Kampala, and on the way to the town of Jinja. This makes it an easy addition to your Uganda itinerary.

Apart from being a beautiful, ancient rainforest that's ideal for hikes and exploratory walks, it has a fantastic zip line that it's dubbed the Mabira Forest Canopy Super Skyway! The zip line grants you amazing views over the canopy, and you'll see the River Musamya as you fly over it.

White-throated bee-eater in Mabira Forest Reserve in Jinja, Uganda

A white-throated bee-eater perches on a slim branch in Mabira Forest

While you're laughing and whizzing through the air with your pals, keep an eye open for African fish eagles, palm nut vultures and great blue turacos, among others! At the end of the zip line, you hike back to base camp via Griffin Falls.

15. Bike through Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park may be smaller than the others, but boy does it pack in a whole load of wildlife! Its fantastic location, between Entebbe and Bwindi, makes it a good stop over to avoid really long drives or a flight.

Warthog among trees in Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda

A warthog eyes the photographer suspiciously in the park's woodland section

When there, why not do things a little differently and take a bike ride through the park when the sun starts setting? It's the only safari in Uganda were you're allowed to be outside the car! You’ll see zebras, antelopes, baboons, giraffes, long-horn cattle – all from a very close range.

Two defassa waterbuck, antelopes, Lake Mburo National Park " Top 20 things to do in Uganda

Defassa waterbuck are among the many antelopes you can spot around Lake Mburo

Note that whilst you can explore the national park at any time of day, morning game drives are better for getting photographs.

16. Trek to see Kibale Forest's chimpanzees

It's not only the gorillas that attract animal-lovers to Uganda. Chimpanzee trekking is also a fascinating experience and one you won't forget in a hurry!

On a chimp tracking excursion, you go on a guided hike to through beautiful Kibale Forest to find a troop. Once you find them, you spend about an hour with them, observing them eating, grooming, playing and maybe even swinging from one tree to another if you're lucky!

Chimp sitting in green grass

Chimpanzee tracking is a fascinating and, in our opinion, underrated experience

17. Stand at the Ugandan Equator

Instagrammers at the ready – the Ugandan Equator is one of the most photographed and well-known landmarks in the whole country. And of course it is, since we all love the idea of saying we're in two places at once!

Group of travellers standing by the Uganda Equator sign

Visiting the Equator is a must when in Uganda!

At the Equator, you're able to stand with one of your feet in the northern hemisphere and the other in the southern hemisphere. This effectively lets you stand on both sides of the world at the same time. Mind. Blown.

Ours. S. Close up of the Uganda Equator sign

The challenge is to photograph the sign in a unique way, like this

18. Hike in the Rwenzori Mountains

Another worthy addition to our list of the top 20 things to do in Uganda is visit the mighty, mist-shrouded Rwenzori Mountains !

Rwenzori-Mountains-Uganda-2-1024x682.jpg

The scenery of the Rwenzoris is unique and absolutely incredible

A UNESCO World Heritage Site in western Uganda, the Rwenzori Mountains are a hiker's paradise. You can embark on short day hikes or tackle more challenging, multiday treks. Mountaineers can have a go at Africa's fourth highest peak: Mt Ngaliema (5,109 m)!

The vegetation in the misty heights of the mountains is unusual and exotic, and the trails are quiet as the range is very remote and little-known. It's an incredibly beautiful corner of the country that's a must-see for anyone who loves the drama of mountains!

hiker climbing up a wooden ladder in the Rwenzori mountains of Uganda

The Rwenzoris are a remote, unique and magical mountain range

19. Hike to Sempaya Hot Springs

The Sempaya Hot Springs are powerful geothermal springs that can reach a temperature of 100° C! There are two hot springs, separated by about a 30-minute hike. The locals refer to the the two springs as the male and female springs.

Geothermal hot spring in Semuliki National Park, Uganda

Geothermal hot spring in Semuliki

The hot springs can be found in Semuliki National Park in the west of Uganda. This is an underrated park boasting not only the hot springs but also beautiful wetland. It's also very close to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which makes it a great addition to a gorilla trekking trip.

Wetland landscape of grasses and trees in Semuliki National Park, Uganda

The wetland of Semuliki National Park

Apart from the hot springs, hiking in Semuliki National Park is very rewarding as it's a gorgeous and ecologically rich park. The Semuliki River runs through it before joining with the Congo River.

The park contains many fascinating Old World monkeys, including the mangabey, black-and-white colobus, and red-tailed monkey. Some of the birds to look out for are blue kingfisher and dwarf hornbill.

20. Game drive in Kidepo Valley National Park!

Few people visit Kidepo Valley National Park as it's far from the country's other main attractions. But those who do make the effort to get there are rewarded with fantastic game experiences.

elephant herd in kidepo Valley national park, best time to visit uganda

Bush elephants in Kidepo

The park's scenery is gorgeous, and varies from rocky outcrops to wide open grassland, inselbergs and verdant valleys. Importantly, the wildlife spotting is excellent . Many visitors see lions, cheetahs and elephants, as well as enormous buffalo herds. Other animals in the park include jackals, caracals and aardwolfs, mountain reedbucks, dik-diks and kudus.

This quiet corner of Uganda is definitely worth the effort!

Path to Kidepo Savannah Lodge

The path to Savannah Lodge (our favourite place to stay) in Kidepo

Feeling inspired!? Why not check out our trips to Uganda. Let's explore together!

Storyteller Travel

15 Incredible Things to do in Uganda [Culture, Nature, Culinary, Adventure…]

By: Author Dena Haines

Posted on Last updated: October 15, 2021

Categories Destinations , Uganda Travel

Here are 15 things to do in Uganda. They include gorilla trekking and animal safari, adventure sports, cultural events and much more.

Things to do in Uganda

Table of Contents

15 Incredible Things to do in Uganda

Nicknamed the “Pearl of Africa” by Sir Winston Churchill, Uganda offers a smorgasbord of impressive attractions and unique things that you can’t see or do anywhere else. Not only can you go mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda, but can also stand in two different hemispheres at once in this country.

Amazing wildlife , awe-inspiring waterfalls, grand lakes, vibrant culture, and heart-racing adventures all await you in Uganda. So, if you are pumped and ready to learn more, check out the following 15 incredible things to do in Uganda.

1. Straddle the Equator

The best place to straddle the equator in Uganda is Kayabwe of the Mpigi District where you will find a smattering of souvenir shops and restaurants. You will also find an equator landmark in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Uganda on the Equator

Learn more about Uganda’s location on the equator .

2. Go on a Ugandan Safari

Going on a safari trip to see African wildlife ranks near the top of things to do in Uganda. You will discover many expert tour guides and outfits that know exactly where to take you for the best chances to observe the likes of Cape buffalos , elephants , giraffes , lions , antelopes, chimpanzees and more.

African Bush Elephants

Don’t forget about the equatorial sun! Here’s how to choose the best sun protection hat for Africa .

Some of the best places in Uganda to take a safari include Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

3. Join a Gorilla Trekking Tour

Of all the many thrilling things to do in Uganda, the number one on many tourists’ bucket lists is going on a trekking tour to see the mountain gorillas.

The mountain gorillas are an endangered species of less than 1,000 total individuals and can only be seen in three places in the world which include Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is home to the largest number of mountain gorilla families.

Uganda mountain gorilla facts

More reading: Is Uganda Safe? Guide to Water, Crime, Disease, Sun

These facts alone make gorilla trekking in Uganda a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Wildlife authorities in Uganda enforce strict rules for gorilla trekking in order to protect both the primates and tourists, so you will need to first obtain a permit before joining up with an established trekking company that knows how and where to track the gorilla families.

4. See Where the Nile Begins (Test Your Adrenaline with Extreme Sports)

Most people know that the Nile River is the largest in the world, but did you know that it begins in Uganda? When you are in the area of the Murchison Falls National Park, you will be near the town of Jinja where the mighty Nile starts.

If that isn’t exciting enough for you, the town of Jinja and the surrounding area is known as the “adrenaline capital of East Africa.”

You can enjoy the exhilarating thrill of extreme adventures such as bungee jumping, mountain biking, kayaking, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, and quad-biking.

5. Explore the Majesty of Murchison National Park

While you are exploring Jinja and the Nile River, you will be nearby Murchison Falls National Park .

This is the country’s largest national park and one of the best places to see Africa’s Big Five that includes the endangered Rothschild giraffes, which are the tallest of giraffes.

Best time to visit Murchison Falls

More reading: How Strong is a Gorilla?

This national park is also a bird watching paradise with more than 450 bird species that include the elusive shoebill. Last but not least, you can’t miss the spectacular waterfall from which the park is named. Whether you go by safari or boat cruise, you will see why this enormous waterfall is considered one of the most powerful in the world.

6. See Wild Rhinos at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

You may find it difficult to see wild rhinos while on safari in Uganda due to their numbers being mostly wiped out by hunters.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Uganda

However, thanks to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary , seeing these beautiful creatures is still one of the exciting things to do in Uganda.

Located in Nakasongola on the way to Murchison Falls National Park, this wildlife reserve not only offers guided trekking tours to see the rhinos but also hippopotamuses , antelopes, crocodiles , and more than 250 bird species in addition to canoe cruises and scenic nature walks.

7. See the Tree-climbing Lions of Queen Elizabeth National Park

Among the intriguing things to do in Uganda that you can’t do in other places is see tree-climbing lions. Your best chance of seeing these odd lions is in the Ishasha region of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Since the lions hunt by night and sleep most of the day in the trees, you may be able to spot them between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.

While you’re in this national park, you will appreciate opportunities to glimpse other wildlife species as well as enjoy hot air balloon rides, boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel, and scenic drives to see Crater Lake, Mountains of the Moon, and the Blue Mountains of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

8. Experience Traditional Culture of Ugandan Tribes at the Nedere Centre

You can’t go to Uganda and not experience the country’s traditional dance and music. One of the best places to do this is the Nedere Centre in Kampala.

Opened every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evening, the Ndere Centre features a 700-seat venue where you will be mesmerized by the high-energy shows displaying the vibrant costumes, dances, and music that represent the culture of local Ugandan tribes. You may even get to try some local foods at the barbecues hosted by the Nedere Centre.

9. Retreat to the National Botanical Gardens

If you find yourself in need of a beautiful place to relax and catch your breath during your Uganda travels, the National Botanical Gardens is the place.

Located near Lake Victoria in Entebbe about an hour outside of Kambala, this sprawling garden complex offers you biking trails and nature walks through lush landscapes of various trees, plants, and flowers while monkeys, squirrels, butterflies, and birds frolic around you.

If your visit is during November, you may enjoy the festivities of the Annual Milege World Music Festival that is held here each year.

How’s your Swahili? Check out our guide to 100+ animal names in Swahili .

10. Get Up Close to African Reptiles at the Uganda Reptile Village

Seeing amazing wildlife is one of the most popular things to do in Uganda, and that includes reptiles. While you’re in Entebbe, check out the Uganda Reptile Village, a sanctuary for endangered reptiles.

You will see 20 different species here that include crocodiles, chameleons, turtles, cobras, monitor lizards, and Africa’s most poisonous snake, the gaboon viper. Spend a little time in the education center to learn more about these reptiles and come away with a better appreciation for African wildlife.

11. Enjoy Outdoor Recreation at Lake Victoria

It wouldn’t seem right to travel to Uganda and not take time out to visit the largest lake in Africa .

Lake Victoria Uganda

Not only does Lake Victoria offer picturesque views and stunning photo opportunities but a wide range of outdoor activities as well.

You can enjoy fishing, water sports, boat cruises, picnics, birdwatching, cultural walks through local villages, and hiking trails that lead to ancient rock art sites. You may also get the opportunity to see amazing wildlife species such as crocodiles, hippopotamuses, turtles, and otters just to name a few.

While visiting Lake Victoria keep in mind that a parasite known as Bilharzia makes swimming in Lake Victoria a risk. It is also becoming more common to hear about attacks from the Nile crocodiles or hippopotamus because much of their smaller pray have been hunted away

12. Escape to the Unspoiled Ssese Islands

You may fall in love with Lake Victoria so much that you never want to leave. If that’s the case, you may want to spend some time on the lake’s 84-island archipelago known as the Ssese Islands .

Ssese Islands Uganda

Looking for the best safari hat? Check out our guide to African Safari Hats for Bush and Jungle Adventures .

A popular tourist destination, the Ssese Islands offers you plenty of things to do in Uganda. You can laze the days away on beautiful, sandy beaches or go sailing, boating, fishing, hiking or horseback riding.

Take a forest walk and count how many chimpanzees you see. Meet the Bantu people who live nearby and learn about their customs and culture.

13. Owino Market

Visiting markets while traveling in other countries is a great way to not only see the various foods and products that are produced by different cultures, but it is also an excellent way to experience the language , customs, and vibe of the local people.

One of the largest and best markets you can visit in Uganda is the Owino Market in Kampala. Browse through a colorful array of produce, electronics, African print fabrics, and handicrafts while watching vendors and customers haggling over prices. Be sure to try some local cuisine at the food stalls.

Learn more: Uganda Currency: 12 Things to Know

14. Tour the Kasubi Tombs to Learn about Uganda’s Royal Kingdom

While you are in Kampala , head over to the Kasubi Tombs where you can delve into the intriguing history of Uganda’s royal family and the Buganda Kingdom, the country’s largest tribal kingdom.

Kasubi Tombs Kampala Uganda

This historic site features the remnants of a 35-building palace and burial grounds of former Ugandan kings and their royal family members. A guided tour of the site allows you to view artifacts, learn about the traditions and rituals of the Buganda Kingdom, and admire remarkable architecture constructed from vegetational materials.

15. Sample Ugandan Cuisine

Trying the local cuisine of a different country only enhances your overall travel experience, so one of the best things to do in Uganda is sample some of the country’s most popular foods.

Roadside stalls and markets offer fresh fruits such as plantains, roasted meat on sticks, and fried breads wrapped around omelets with vegetables (known as rolex ).

Check out our Uganda Food Guide (16 Must Try Dishes for Your Visit)

Rolex chapati in Uganda

At restaurants, you are likely to be served traditional dishes such as luwombo (fish, beef or chicken steamed in plantain leaves with peanut sauce) or chaloko, a hearty meal of pinto beans, onions, green peppers, and onions served with posho (doughy cornmeal mixture).

Fun things to do in Uganda

Learn more about the 18 largest cities in Uganda .

We recommend picking up a travel insurance policy before traveling to Africa. It can cover surprise visits to a medical clinic and protect your belongings should they get lost or damaged.

Uganda may be a small country in size, but it packs so many great attractions and unique adventures that you couldn’t possibly experience them all in one trip. This list only covers some of the country’s most popular highlights.

Other exciting things include visiting historic sites, palaces and temples in the capital city, touring tea and coffee plantations, seeing the stars at night like you’ve never seen before, and meeting the Batwa tribe, descendants of Uganda’s first people. So, what are you waiting for? Uganda is calling you!

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Hi, I’m Dena Haines . And I’m co-founder of Storyteller Travel . I love to cover food, animals, and destinations around the world.

I also blog about photography at Storyteller Tech .

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10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Uganda

Ugandan women

Culture Trip Writer

There are so many reasons one should explore Uganda . Sir Winston Churchill was so much in awe of the country he called it the “pearl of Africa.” Read on to find out why you should visit this unique fairy tale country.

You can enjoy the african sun all year round.

Uganda’s sun blazes all year round. Having said that, Uganda’s weather still amazes even the Ugandans themselves, as it can pour and shine within 10 minutes.

Ugandans enjoy the Kampala Street Carnival on a sunny day

You will receive a warm welcome

Ugandan man

Your money will go further

In an age where everything seems to cost an arm and leg, most travelers are seeking high style at a low budget, which makes Uganda the best destination in the region for its affordability. The cost of living in Uganda is lower than that of its neighbors, which gives travelers more purchasing power to indulge in all that Uganda has to offer.

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Explore the country’s gift of nature

Uganda is a natural beauty, with an abundance of gifts bestowed to her: the snowcapped Rwenzori mountains, named one of the best hikes in the world by the National Geographic; Mountain Elgon, with the largest volcanic caldera in the world; and Africa’s largest lake, Lake Victoria; the mighty River Nile, the second-longest river in the world, whose largest source is in Lake Victoria.

The largest volcanic caldera on Mount Elgon in eastern Uganda

You will enjoy the cultural diversity

Uganda is made up of a number of ethnic groups from the central and south, east, west, and north, each with its own language, distinctive customs and norms. There are over 50 languages are spoken in Uganda. It’s this cultural diversity that offers curious travelers an authentic and enjoyable experience.

A cultural dance by the Karamojong in northern Ugandan

Tease your taste buds with Uganda’s rich cuisine

Uganda’s food is as rich as its culture, because each tribe has its own staple food. A proper Ugandan meal is a celebration in itself, and some meals are prepared as early as the day before, to be served at lunch the following day. Then there is the street food, the most notable being the rolex. While a Rolex is a timepiece in most countries, in Uganda it’s a popular street food that can be eaten any time of the day. It’s an omelette that is rolled with a chapatti and some onions and tomatoes; bonus points if the tomatoes are raw and if you eat it by the stall.

The rolex stall

1. Get your adrenaline high

Jinja is known as East Africa’s adrenaline capital. It is home to the source of the mighty River Nile and is also a bucket list destination for those seeking adrenaline kicks through white-water rafting and kayaking. Jinja offers what are arguably the best rapids in Africa. If water isn’t your thing, you can get your dose of adrenaline by bungee jumping instead. There is also quad biking and horse riding through the villages along the Nile.

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Rafting along the River Nile in Jinja, Uganda | Olive Nakiyemba / © Culture Trip

2. Explore the bird paradise that is Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi , which means “lake of small birds,” is located in southwestern Uganda. It is the second-deepest freshwater lake in Africa and is a stunning view when seen from one of the hills around it. Its beauty is even such that it is printed on one of Uganda’s currency notes. There are 29 islands in the lake, and it’s a heaven for bird lovers.

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The island-studded Lake Bunyonyi in southwestern Uganda | Olive Nakiyemba / © Culture Trip

You’ll be blown away by the unique wildlife

Although Uganda is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant) it also boasts unique wildlife such as tree-climbing lions and the Nile crocodile. Uganda is a must on any birder’s bucket list, with over 1,000 bird species, including some of the very rarest, such as the shoebill, the great blue turaco, Shelley’s crimsonwing, and many more. Indeed, Uganda’s wetlands and savannah are great habitats for some of the world’s most spectacular birds and wildlife.

Shoebill stork

Uganda is lucky to be the home of the famous endangered mountain gorillas, and it has the highest population of mountain gorillas in the world. They can’t be found anywhere else on earth but in the Virunga Massif that is shared by Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These gentle giants can be found in two of Uganda’s national parks: Mgahinga National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.

Silverback mountain gorilla

You’ll feel the urge to dance

Here’s a reason to spend the first weekend of September in Uganda, and in Jinja to be exact. Nyege Nyege means an irresistible urge to dance, and the Nyege Nyege International Music Festival has been dubbed Uganda’s Burning Man festival. It showcases underground musical acts from all over Africa, as well as celebrating the diversity of East African food, and attracts revelers from as far as North America and Southeast Asia. The festival is a three-day nonstop music celebration with four stages by the shores of the River Nile; most revelers opt to camp at the site for maximum enjoyment. Even the rain can’t stop you #whenthenyegenyegehitsyou #raindance #nyegenyegefestival #nyegenyege2017 #NNIMF17 #toomuchsauce #Repost @picturesthatwilliamtakes with @insta.save.repost • • • A post shared by NyegeNyegeFest (@nyegenyegefest) on Sep 3, 2017 at 7:26pm PDT

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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Uganda Travel Guide: Everything Uganda Tourists Need to Know

Explorer Chick

April 15, 2022

uganda travel guide

Uganda is one of the most beloved tourist destinations in Africa. It’s endowed with natural beauty and great weather all year round. It is also the perfect location to go for wildlife trekking adventures. Before travelling to Uganda, though, it’s helpful to know what to expect when it comes to languages, local laws, and culture. 

Here, we’ll share what we know to be true about Uganda and hopefully convince you that you should visit soon.

The Basics of What to Expect in Uganda  

First things first, get travel advice from trusted sources (hi, here at Explorer Chick!). Here are some basics of what to expect in Uganda.

  • Language: The dominating languages spoken in Uganda are English and Swahili . A vast majority of the population can speak eloquent English. These two languages are the leading ones spoken among 40 other native languages.  The main group of people there is Nilotic, Sudanese, Bantus, and Central Sudanese.
  • Currency:  The primary currency used in Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling . You get about 3500 – 700 Ugandan Shilling to one US dollar at the exchange point. Some places in the major towns also accept Euros and British Pounds.
  • Credit Cards vs. Cash:  While in Uganda, it would be wise always to have ready cash at all times.  If you want to get the best exchange deals, avoid exchanging currency at the airport. Exchange only the amount you need and make your withdrawals at the ATM. You can get the exemption to use cash in hotels and restaurants to use Credit cards. 
  • Plugs:  Get your G plug type ready when traveling to Uganda. It is similar to the pins found in the UK, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Singapore.
  • Covid-19 Situation. You can get information and the latest Covid-19 updates about Uganda on TravelHealthPro and local media. Get to understand the measure locals in Uganda are taking to reduce the spread of Covid-19.
  • Weather: Uganda lies on the warm tropical belt. Expect to experience temperatures ranging between 25 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius. The mountainous region around Mt Elgon is cooler.  It’s the hottest from December to February, with chilly evenings. Also, it’s worth noting that the heavy rain season is between March and between September and November. 
  • Visa Information: It’s a requirement to have a visa to visit Uganda. You can get the East African Community (EAC) tourist visa to access neighboring Uganda for 90 days. Alternatively, you can get a visa online from the government of Uganda .

Why Should You Visit Uganda?

uganda sunset

A visit to Uganda will change your soul as you get to experience the best treats from the Pearl of Africa. You can explore nature’s bearings and the rich cultural aspects of the region. There are tons of things to do in Uganda.

Nicki, the founder of Explorer Chick, specifically created a trip to Uganda because of the impact it has had on her since her first visit. From the wildlife and conservation efforts to the jaw-dropping landscapes to the highest shelf accommodations (um, have you SEEN the hot tub situation??)Uganda is one of the most remarkable locations on Earth.

And that’s exactly what we’re focusing on in this list of reasons why you should visit Uganda.

Wildlife and Gorilla Trekking

gorilla trekking

One of the most must-do things while in Uganda is interacting with wildlife and going on Gorilla trekking adventures. Going gorilla trekking is a humbling experience as you get to observe the majestic animals in what is arguably one of the most beautiful places in all of Africa. 

Bwindi National Park is the primary home to Gorillas. It’s a 2.5-hour trek through the Bwindi forest, where you will likely come across the Mubare gorilla family. Consider trekking in the morning since the gorillas sleep in the evenings. Besides trekking, you can also jump into a Land cruiser and track the movements of predators courtesy of the Uganda Carnivore Program.

More interactions with wildlife await you at Kyambura Gorge, where you can’t ignore the calls of chimpanzees. Make a point of organizing a boat ride at the Kazinga channel to enjoy different other types of wildlife from hippos, exotic birds, Nile crocodiles, and elephants.

This park is especially close to Nicki’s, the OG Explorer Chick’s, heart. 

“Tourism has kept Mountain Gorillas on the planet. With community profit sharing and job creation, locals are incentivized to conserve the species and their habitat.” Nicki’s vision is that Explorer Chick can help introduce people to the species that inhabit the natural world and, by doing so, support the local conservation efforts.

“When tourism collapses in conservation areas, our protected species come under threat for their short-term monetary value,” she explains. 

Her recommendation: “If you want to read more about this process, the Gorillas, and Uganda, I strongly recommend reading “ The Impenetrable Forest: My Gorilla Years in Uganda ” by Thor Hanson. I only cried twice.”

Gorgeous National Parks

uganda national parks

While in Uganda, ensure that you arrange flights to various wildlife reserves starting with Kidepo Valley National Park . Its location on the northernmost part of the county leaves it untouched to ensure you have an authentic African savanna experience. Your visits to these wildlife reserves will show you why animals do not belong in the zoo as you get to see elephants, giraffes, and ostriches in their natural habitats.

jaguars on safari in uganda

Another show-stopping location you must visit is the Rwenzori Mountains National Park . Your tours will lead you up the Munyambuli River at first into the most beautiful forest. A stop at the Queen Elizabeth National Park will allow you to prepare for a 7.8 miles hike into the untouched wilderness.

elephants on safari in uganda

Touring the national parks should bring you no trouble since chartered flights and tour operators accompany you in the wild. Exploring the gorgeous wild in Uganda is an experience that forever remains stamped in your memories.

Show-Stopping Accommodation 

uganda accommodations

You never have to worry about getting accommodation in Uganda. There are luxurious hotels all around Uganda. For instance, you can find accommodation at a luxury safari lodge in Kidepo Valley National Park and hire cottages. Entebbe City also has numerous alternatives for housing with all the essential facilities you will need to create an awesome experience for you.

Is Uganda Safe for Tourists ?

uganda group tour

Uganda is one of the safest tourist destinations in Africa . However, there are a few vices such as drive-by theft in cities like Kampala, like in any other country. It’s essential to stay alert and spot potential instances of petty crime. There have been isolated cases of serious crimes like recent terrorist activities and violent political demonstrations.  

Since it’s your first time visiting the country, it’s a good idea to make personal security arrangements, especially when going in public. Security is also necessary when gorilla trekking since the country is close to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Travel insurance is also an essential tool to get for your safety.

Where to get more information:

  • Travel State Advisory for Uganda
  • CDC Advisory for Uganda

While there are certainly instances of heightened caution when traveling to Uganda, the reality is that most foreign travelers pass through the country peacefully. This is especially the case when traveling in guided groups, like our trekking and safari trip .

The Best Time to Visit Uganda

best time to visit uganda

Consider visiting Uganda during the dry season between January and February and June and August . Those are the hottest months featuring hot days and chilly evenings. Also, it would be best to schedule your trip following Uganda’s rainfall pattern. Expect heavy rainfall during the rainy seasons between March and May and between September and November .

Heavy rainfall may make road travel difficult BUT you are also likely to spot various types of game in those months (that’s why our trip is scheduled in November).

Travel to Uganda with Explorer Chick!

Looking for the most engaging group of like-minded individuals to go on an adventure with? Explorer Chick can help you organize a trip to Uganda. Let us know if you would like to join our eleven people -ten-day expedition to Uganda. Take advantage of the coming warm months and us for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to make lasting memories.

visit to uganda

Uganda Entry & Visa Requirements

Navigating Uganda’s Red Tape: Visa & Entry Requirements like passport, Covid, customs and pets.

Navigating Uganda’s Red Tape: Entry visa requirements like where to get it, passport validity, vaccinations, customs, and travel restrictions.

Updated July 24, 2023

Uganda’s entry visa requirements have not changed much in the last decade, but a few changes like the application process have come up to control pandemics and make it easier for all travelers.

We all want to get out there alive a bit, get wild and stretch our minds. An African savanna is a great place for that. Open wide spaces, clean air, new cultures, and quiet noise. All we needed before the Covid pandemic hit us was a passport, a visa, an air ticket, and a few bucks, and that’s it!

A few star-gazing nights under the African sky are suitable for everyone. Now, you will have to tolerate a couple of things to have a marvelous safari trip to Uganda , like many other destinations are doing it. To keep you and everyone, including the animals , protected.

Uganda’s borders remain open to tourists and anyone visiting the country either by land or air. But most travelers need a passport and a visa to enter Uganda and we will tell you the entry visa process below.

Uganda Entry Requirements

  • Covid 19:  Effective March 7th, it is no longer necessary to present proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate upon arrival. However, if you are transiting or departing, you must be mindful of the entry requirements at your final destination.
  • Passport validity:  To enter Uganda, it is necessary to have a valid passport for at least six months from the date of arrival.
  • Visas:  To obtain a visa for Uganda, you can either visit a Uganda Consulate in your country or apply for an ‘e-visa’ online. 
  • East African Visa  (one visa for Uganda, Rwanda, & Kenya) :  You can also apply for a 90-day East African Tourist Visa. 
  • Yellow fever certificate:  You will need a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate to enter Uganda.

Uganda Visa Requirements

Nationals of most countries require a visa to enter Uganda. They must apply and pay for the Uganda entry visa in advance electronically online at https://visas.immigration.go.ug/ .

Entry visa rulings are prone to change, so all visitors must check the current situation with their travel agent or a Ugandan diplomatic mission before they travel.

The following are the requirements for Uganda entry visa:

  • You must have a valid passport issued by your government. Your passport must be valid past the date of your expected departure from Uganda (6 months)
  • Green card holders must provide a copy of their green card
  • Duly filled Visa Application Form
  • You must have an international Inoculation Certificate against Yellow Fever.
  • You must obtain a Uganda Government VISA before entry into Uganda.
  • It is mandatory to have the following to obtain a Uganda Government entry visa: (a) Application forms are available online. Visa Application Form (b) Submit your passport and one (1) recent passport–size photograph. (c) Pay applicable Fees, by money order or (cashier’s cheque) only. (d) In a secure envelope, enclose your passport, the one photograph, and the money order (or cashier cheque) to Uganda Mission. (e) Allow five (5) working days for your visa application to be processed for an application submitted by mail or in person.
  • Applications for entry visas may be submitted by mail, in person, or by E-visa. Applications by post must be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed USPSExpress Overnight envelope only for shipping your document(s) back to you. Any other courier service with traceable delivery methods like FedEx and DHL is recommended.
  • Entry visa applications should be submitted one month before travel, at the earliest, and not later than four days before travel.
  • Correct visa fee ( USD 50 for a single entry visa). All travelers should pay visa fees online.
  • Letter of invitation/introduction, if traveling on business.
  • Applicants may be requested to submit additional supporting documentation.

For more information on entry visa Requirements, visit the  official Uganda Immigration page.

Which Country Doesn’t Require a Visa To Travel To Uganda?

Citizens of the following countries do not require visas to enter Uganda—but they should have a valid passport:

  • Italy (Diplomatic Passport holders only)
  • Sierra Leone
  • The Solomon Islands
  • St. Vincent and Grenadines

Things you must know traveling to Uganda

Valid passport.

Check well in advance that you have a valid passport and that it won’t expire within six months of the date you intend to leave Uganda. Should your passport be lost or stolen, it will generally be easier to get a replacement if you have a photocopy of the important pages.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

There is a risk of yellow fever transmission all over Uganda, all travelers entering the country have to be vaccinated to protect themselves, including travelers from the UK, USA, and Australia. You will be asked at the border or international airport for an international health certificate showing you’ve had a yellow fever shot . Fortunately, the Yellow Fever shot currently can last a lifetime, so you can do it once.

Cost of a Uganda Entry Visa

  • A standard Uganda single-entry visa, valid for three months, costs USD 50 .
  • Student entry visas cost USD 20. Multiple-entry visa valid for 12 months, costs USD 100 .
  • 24 months visa costs USD 150 .
  • 24-36-months visa costs USD 200 .

Travelers with a single-entry visa intending to leave and return to Uganda (e.g., to trekking gorillas in Rwanda or visiting nearby Kenya) may find it more useful to apply for an East African Visa (cross-border joint visa).

The East African visa allows entry into all three countries (Kenya, Uganda & Rwanda) on a single visa which costs USD 100.

If, however, you intend to spend less than seven days in Uganda before leaving again, you can purchase an inland transit visa for only USD 15.

Woman Planning a Uganda Safari Trip in 10 Easy Steps - Uganda Visa & Entry Requirements

Planning a safari trip on your own can be a headache

Here are 10 easy steps to put together a great trip

Uganda Entry Visa Extension

Immigration authorities now generally only stamp your passport for a maximum of one month upon arrival. Immigration can extend your entry visa without charge to three months at any immigration office. You’ll be charged USD 100 per day if you overstay your visa .

In Kampala , you may be asked to provide an official letter from a sponsor or the hotel where you are staying. In Jinja and Mbarara, recent reports suggest you are more likely to have your stay extended to three months without any paperwork.

Valid Driving License

If there is any possibility you’ll want to drive or hire a vehicle in Ugand a, bring a valid driving license . Your domestic (home country) driving license will suffice for a period of up to three months.

If you intend to drive in Uganda for longer, you can either obtain a Ugandan Driver’s license or (this is far cheaper and simpler) bring an international driving license with your domestic license. Rather than carrying the originals, a photocopy will suffice.

Keeping your documents safe

For security reasons, it’s advisable to detail all your important information on one sheet of paper, photocopy it, and distribute a few copies in your luggage , your money belt, and amongst relatives or friends at home.

The sort of things you want to include are your identification and address details and refund information, travel insurance policy details and 24-hour emergency contact number, passport number, details of relatives or friends to be contacted in an emergency, bank and credit card details, camera and lens serial numbers, etc.

Tell you travel story

Let the world know about your experience traveling in Uganda.

Send your story to [email protected] and we will publish it.

Entry requirements for pets

Cats and dogs must have a certificate of good health from a registered veterinarian in the area of origin, which must be issued, signed, and stamped no earlier than 10 days before arrival in Uganda. You will also need a certificate confirming the animal is free of rabies and has been inoculated as necessary.

Dogs require vaccinations against distemper, parvo-virus, rabies, hepatitis, and leptospirosis , not less than 30 days before arrival. Cats should be vaccinated against rabies and feline enteritis, not less than 30 days before arrival.

Uganda Boarder Customs

When crossing the border into Uganda, you can bring in certain items without having to pay customs duty. These include 400 cigarettes or 500g of tobacco, one bottle of spirits and wine, 2.5 liters of beer, and a 1oz bottle of perfume.

If you’re leaving Uganda and want to take home some souvenirs, there are no restrictions on what you can export. However, if you plan on taking game trophies like teeth, bones, horns, shells, claws, skin, hair, feathers, or other durable items, you’ll need to obtain an export permit.

Bringing A Drone To Uganda

If you’re bringing in a drone for safari photography , you must know that the Ministry of Defense watches them closely. Through CAA, you must fulfill a couple of requirements to operate a drone in Uganda. Read the full details in: Operating a Drone in Uganda Procedures

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trekking in Uganda and other tourist activities and things to do

  • Experiences

Tourist Activities You Can Experience in Uganda on Safari

Mount Gahinga Lodge - gorilla trekking, golden monkeys, batwa culture in southwestern Uganda

An Unforgettable Nature Escape at Mount Gahinga Lodge

Packing list: what to take on your Uganda safari trip

Packing List, What To Pack for Uganda Safari

Top Luxury Lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest - sanctuary retreat bwindi luxury lodge

Top 6 Luxury Lodges in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Roasted Plantain - Ugandan snacks you must try

  • People & Culture

7 Ugandan Snacks You’ve Just Got to Try

Planning a Uganda Safari Trip in 10 Easy Steps

Planning a Uganda Safari in 10 Easy Steps

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Uganda Wildlife Conservation Tariff Guide

Carnivorous Animals in Uganda

Predators That Rule Uganda’s Wilderness

Discover The Various Types of Travel in Uganda

Discover The Various Types of Travel in Uganda

Coronavirus (Covid) Information for Travelers to Uganda

Uganda Travel Restrictions & Country Declared Ebola Free

Exploring Uganda's northeastern wilderness on a solo safari - traveling alone on self-drive in Uganda

A Solo Safari In Uganda’s North Wilderness

Lake Bunyonyi Near Bwindi Western Uganda

Lake Bunyonyi — An Adventurer’s Guide

Entebbe town attractions

Visit Entebbe, Uganda’s Charming Peninsula Town

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Warnings and insurance

visit to uganda

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice.

Western Uganda

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

  • the southern sector of Kibale Forest National Park and Kibale Forest Corridor Game Reserve up to and including the Fort Portal - Kamwenge / Fort Portal - Mbarara road the Park at Lake Nyabikere and exiting at Nkingo and extending to Lake George following the forest boundary
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • the area immediately south-west of Kasese town – from the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo ( DRC ) at Kyabikere extending eastwards up to and including the A109 road and southwards to Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • Semuliki National Park

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

  • women travellers
  • disabled travellers
  • LGBT+ travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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travel tips and travel photography

20 Best things to do in Kampala | Uganda Travel Tips

Kampala is the heart and soul of Uganda ! Also known as the City of 7 Hills, this vibrant capital city is a must-visit when you travel to Uganda. Bordering Lake Victoria (the largest freshwater lake in Africa ) and surrounded by many rolling hills, Kampala offers a variety of things to do and places to see that will make your visit truly memorable.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll share the  20 best things to do in Kampala and take you on an unforgettable virtual sightseeing tour of Kampala that showcases the best of this African gem, including fun activities, must-visit tourist attractions, and Kampala's lively nightlife scene.

Kampala Fact: Did you know that Kampala derived its name from the many impalas that used to live on the surrounding rolling hills? Sadly, the Kampala region used to be a designated area for hunting impalas.

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, foodie, souvenir hunter, or looking for an authentic cultural experience, Kampala has something special in store for you. Expect a vibrant culture, friendly locals, and rich history in the densely populated capital city of Uganda - only 70km from the Equator!

Things to do in Kampala

Kampala City Tour

How to spend a day in Kampala? If you only have 1 day to see Kampala, I highly recommend a one-day Kampala City Tour with a guide that can tell you everything about this capital city of Uganda and its history. On this tour, you will visit most well-known monuments and top tourist attractions in Kampala . Along the way you can taste Kampala's streetfood on the colorful markets and submerge yourself in Uganda's vibrant culture.

I like to support women in tourism, so we did the city tour with a local Ugandan and woman-owned travel agency, called Sites Travel . We met Jemima (CEO) & Shivan in person during the Pearl of Africa Tourism Exhibition organized by the Uganda Tourism Board. Jemima is a wonderful woman with over 15 years of experience.

City Tour in Kampala Uganda

Grace, our knowledgeable female tour guide, made us feel safe walking around the chaotic city and told me when it would be better to put away my camera gear .

Is Kampala safe for tourists?

I honestly felt safe in Kampala all the time; even on the busy markets. Just be aware of pickpockets and use your common sense. Is Kampala safe at night? I suggest to avoid traveling after dark outside the main towns. It's also safer to avoid driving at night as roads can be in bad condition (potholes, badly signposted). Want to go out for dinner at night? Taking an Uber in Kampala is very safe.

What is the price for a city tour in Kampala?

Prices for a city tour in Kampala vary from $30-$100 depending on the hours of exploring (half-day or full-day) and mode of transportation. You can opt for a motorized tour or a simple walking tour in Kampala . A combination of these options is advisable to cover more of all the top sights Kampala has to offer. Sites Travel Ltd can customize the tour to your personal wishes and advise about what to do in Kampala or organize your safari in Uganda .

Now it’s time to discover the best things to do in Kampala (Uganda). Did I miss an important, fun, or unique thing to do in Kampala? Please leave a comment in the comment section below!

1. Uganda National Mosque with 360° city views

Gaddafi Mosque Kampala

With its impressive architectural design, the Uganda National Mosque - also known as the Gaddafi National Mosque or Kampala Central Mosque - is a prominent landmark in the city on Kampala Hill in Old Kampala. This iconic Old Kampala Mosque is one of the best places to visit in Kampala as it's the largest mosque in East Africa offering a wonderful blend of Islamic culture and architectural grandeur.

Uganda National Mosque Kampala

The mosque (initially built by Idi Amin Dada) got its nickname Gaddafi Mosque because the former Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi funded various infrastructure projects, including the mosque, which became a symbol of the historical ties between Libya and Uganda during Gaddafi’s rule. Following Gaddafi’s fall from power in 2011, the name of the mosque became a subject of controversy and got renamed to Uganda National Mosque .

things to do in Kampala

360° Panoramic views of Kampala on top of Minaret

Views of Kampala City from Uganda National Mosque

Explore the mosque's premises and admire the panoramic views of Kampala on top of the minaret. It’s a 300-steps climb to get a 360-degree view over Kampala city from the top, but it’s 100% worth the ascent. Also, don’t forget to look down the winding staircase inside the minaret, one of the Instagrammable photo spots in Kampala .

Minaret Uganda National Mosque Kampala

Entrance Fee Gaddafi Mosque

The entrance ticket for the Gaddafi Mosque is about 5 US Dollars (20,000 UGX) for foreign internationals. That includes a guide and a scarf to cover the women's head, arms, and legs. If you book a Kampala City Tour with Sites Travel, they already included the ticket in the walking tour.

Kampala Central Mosque in Old Kampala

The Uganda National Mosque is one of the best places to visit in Kampala as it provides a glimpse into the Muslim community's vibrant cultural practices, and it offers some of the best views of Kampala city . A good beginning of your Kampala Walking Tour as you get to know the city and its surrounding ‘seven hills’ from a birds-eye perspective.

There's also another mosque in Kampala that is worth visiting, called Kibuli Mosque . It's the second most popular mosque in Uganda after the Gadhafi Mosque. It's located in Kibuli, a place with the largest population of Muslims in Kampala.

Uganda National Mosque in Old Kampala

2. Visit the UNESCO Kasubi Tombs

Kampala hosts one of the 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Uganda, the famous Kasubi Royal Tombs . These royal burial grounds hold great cultural significance for the Buganda Kingdom. Observe the traditional architecture, learn about the kingdom's history, and gain insight into the traditions of the Buganda people, including their spiritual beliefs & rituals associated with the last resting place of the kings and royals.

Seven Hills that surround Kampala

3. Explore the Uganda Museum

Learn about Uganda’s past at the Uganda Museum, the oldest museum in East Africa. The museum offers an impressive collection of artifacts, exhibits on traditional crafts, and displays of Uganda's diverse cultural heritage. The Uganda National Museum offers a captivating journey through time and offers a unique opportunity to learn about Uganda's pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial history, as well as the country's ethnic groups, traditions, and customs. A must-visit for our history lovers and everyone who wants to learn more about Uganda.

The National Museum also hosts the annual Amakula International Film Festival in Kampala where visual content is celebrated and promoted with a focus on African cinema.

4. Kabaka's Palace & Idi Amin's Torture Chambers

Lubiri Palace Kampala

When you visit Kampala, make sure to explore the historic Kabaka's Palace , also known as the Lubiri Palace. Situated on the Royal Mile in the heart of Kampala city, the Lubiri Palace served as the residence of the Kabakas. The Kabakas were the traditional rulers of the Buganda kingdom, dating back to the 19th century during the reign of Kabaka Mwanga II. Today, the palace also houses the Buganda Parliament (Lukiiko), where the Lukiiko convenes to discuss and deliberate on matters related to the Buganda kingdom's governance, culture, and development.

The Kabaka palace complex showcases traditional Buganda architecture, like thatched roofs and intricate woodwork. You can take a guided tour including the royal residences, courtyards, ceremonial spaces, and Idi Amin's prison.

Idi Amin's Torture Chambers

Idi Amin's Armoury Kabakas Palace

Idi Amin’s Torture Chambers , also known as the Haunted Mansion or Amin's Haunted House is one of the most sad but interesting places to visit in Kampala. It is a building with a dark history associated with the regime of former Ugandan President Idi Amin. During Idi Amin's presidency, Uganda witnessed widespread human rights abuses and political repression. Many individuals were subjected to torture and violence under Amin's regime.

Idi Amin's Haunted House

The Haunted Mansion is believed to be one of the places where Amin's security forces carried out their brutal activities. Stories and rumors of paranormal occurrences, ghostly apparitions, and lingering negative energies have emerged over the years, contributing to the haunted reputation of the site.

torture cells Mengo Palace aka Kabakas Palace

When you visit the site, you will encounter a dark concrete tunnel with prison cells. These cells used to be separated by an electrified body of water to prevent prisoners from escaping. Each torture cell had over 100 people with no ventilation, water, or food.

Unfortunately, over 200,000 people died in these torture chambers. When you visit Idi Amin's Torture Chambers you can still see heartbreaking messages on the walls of the torture cells written by former prisoners. Other signs you can find are bullet holes and scratches of resistance. I found the torture chambers impressive and ominous. It gave me goosebumps all over.

Torture Cells Lubiro Palace

You'll also find the remains of Mutesa’s Rolls-Royce which was destroyed by Idi Amin. Nowadays, the palace is called Mengo Palace due to its location on (Nkaawo) Mengo Hill, one of the 7 Kampala Hills.

Mutesa's Rolls Royce Kabaka's Palace

5. Royal Mile of the Buganda Kingdom

Travelers should add a walk along The Royal Mile to their list of things to see and do in Kampala. The Royal Mile is a historic road connecting important sites, and landmarks associated with the kingdom and holds significant cultural and political importance for the Buganda people.

Things to do in Kampala

Walking the Royal Mile is one of those tourist activities in Kampala you can't miss as it features the following important landmarks:

  • Lubiri Palace or Kabaka's Palace (no. 4 in this Kampala article)
  • The Bulange Parliament Building (or Bulange Mengo) serves as the administrative and cultural headquarters for the kingdom's affairs. Here, you can learn about the political system of the Buganda Kingdom and witness the cultural ceremonies and events that take place. It also houses the offices of the Katikkiro (Prime Minister).
  • Naggalabi Buddo Coronation Site where Buganda kings get traditionally crowned.
  • Kabaka's Lake also known as Luggard's Lake, was created during the reign of Kabaka Mwanga II. The lake not only adds to the beauty of the area but also holds historical and cultural importance within the Buganda Kingdom.

Best things to do in Kampala Uganda

By exploring this historic activity, you learn more about the Buganda people's identity. So, take a stroll along The Royal Mile and let the stories of the Buganda Kingdom unfold before you.

6. Stroll the colorful Owino Market; the best place to visit in Kampala

St. Balikuddembe Market Kampala

Officially (re)named St. Balikuddembe Market, no visit to Kampala is complete without experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of the Owino Market , the largest market in Kampala!

Second-hand market in Kampala

Kampala's Second Hand Market Owino

This bustling market, commonly referred to as " Kampala's second-hand market " is a treasure trove for thrift shoppers. They have everything from unique clothing and shoes to accessories; all at affordable prices. So, unleash your inner fashionista as you browse through second-hand items, giving them a new life and adding a touch of individuality to your wardrobe.

Labyrinth of alleys

Owino Market best things to do in Kampala

Visit Kampala and get lost in the many small alleys that feel like a labyrinth filled with stalls offering colorful fabrics, traditional crafts, clothing, traditional Ugandan food, and lots of souvenirs. Engage with friendly vendors, bargain for unique finds, and embrace the lively atmosphere of this bustling open-air Owino Market. I was happy our guide Grace knew exactly what alleys to go through and what stalls to show us to learn some interesting facts about certain products. 100% one of the best outdoor activities in Kampala!

Open-air St. Balikuddembe Market

Owino Market Kampala

They renamed Owino Market into St. Balikuddembe Market in honor of a prominent Ugandan martyr named Charles Lwanga, who was canonized as Saint Charles Lwanga Balikuddembe. Balikuddembe is a local term that means "the one who brings peace". The name change pays homage to this important figure in Ugandan history and to emphasize the market's connection to the local community.

7. Eat Local Ugandan Cuisine (Rolex tasting)

Taste Local Uganda Dishes

When in Kampala, you can’t miss out on tasting some flavors of the  Ugandan cuisine . Things you must taste and eat in Downtown Kampala are local dishes like matoke (cooked banana), luwombo (stewed meat wrapped in banana leaves), and Rolex (a popular street food comprising a rolled chapati with eggs and vegetables).

Eat Matoke on Kampala City Tour

So when you buy a Rolex in Uganda, you don’t get a watch but a rolled chapati with eggs! A Ugandan Rolex is a great street food that you find along the road. We did Rolex tasting on our Kampala City Tour, where we got to see how they make this fresh local Ugandan dish.

Rolex Tasting on Kampala City Tour

We also tasted freshly made Banana pancakes and some G-nut sauce. Head to local restaurants and Kampala street food stalls to experience the authentic tastes of Uganda.

Streetfood in Kampala

If you have more time, you can also opt for a Ugandan Cooking Class with authentic Ugandan dishes or do a half or full-day food tour in Kampala . A food tour is one of the cool things to do in Kampala because it's very interactive and a great way to support the vendors and their families.

Gnut Sause tasting Kampala Market

Are you a lover of coffee? Check out 1000 Cups of Coffee , at PRISM Mall on Buganda Road - opposite the East African Craft Village. They also offer Coffee Safaris and options to experience their Roastery.

8. Ugandan Coffee Experience Class

Life is too short to drink terrible coffee! The Coffee Experience and Home Brewing Class in Kampala is an interactive and fun thing to do in Kampala if you want to learn more about Uganda's rich coffee heritage. The class delves into the progress (or lack thereof) in being recognized as a coffee giant and growing & processing methods. It also focuses on price transparency and the dynamics between coffee growers and coffee consumers.

You will analyze roast profiles, grind size, and various brewing methods, plus you will sample specialty Robusta and Arabica coffee. Interested in this coffee class? Check out One Tribe Coffee at Motiv or visit their Instagram .

9. Buy fresh fruits at Nakasero Market

Nakasero Food Market Kampala

In the heart of downtown Kampala, Nakasero Market is Kampala’s major food market; a bustling hub where locals, visitors, and businesses come together to buy and sell fresh food like colorful fruits, vegetables, grains, spices, meats, fish, and livestock like chickens.

livestock like chickens at nakasero market

It is the oldest and most iconic market in the city, offering a unique cultural experience for visitors. It’s also the place where most hotels buy their food.

So, the foodies among us will be in for a treat at Nakasero Food Market. Take a stroll through the food section and engage with the vendors to learn about traditional Ugandan ingredients and recipes.

Taste banana pancakes on Kampala Markets

Eat fresh fruits and sample some of the local street food, such as roasted plantains, grilled meats, and savory samosas, for a true taste of Uganda's culinary delights.

Best things to do in Kampala Nakasero Market

The lively atmosphere, bustling crowds, and eye-catching displays make it a photographer's paradise. Capture the essence of everyday life, and the friendly faces of the vendors as you document your visit to Nakasero Market.

📷 Kampala Markets Photography Tip: Don't forget to ask permission to photograph people or to capture a portrait as not everyone likes to be photographed; especially not without asking permission.

Visit Nakasero Market Kampala

  Like to have a panoramic view of the Nakasero Market to photograph the food market from above? Go up the stairs at the nearby mall! If you're with a guide he or she can show you the way!

What I like about strolling the markets is that it's a cheap thing to do in Kampala as the markets don't have an entrance fee. I do recommend buying some souvenirs, and tasting local dishes and fresh fruits, like mango.

10. People-watching at Old Taxi Park

Old Taxi Park Kampala City

The Old Taxi Park is a bustling transportation hub that can be an interesting place to see in Kampala. It’s where taxis, matatus, and boda-bodas converge. Passing by the taxi park, away from the more touristy areas, allows you to witness the vibrant hustle and bustle of Kampala's transport system firsthand, and it’s a fantastic spot for people-watching.

Taxi Park downtown Kampala

It's a chance to observe the vibrant street life, and it provides a glimpse into the authentic side of Kampala . The park is a hive of activity, with the constant movement of vehicles and people, the sounds of honking horns, and the vibrant colors and energy that characterize the local transportation system.

Kampala Transport Hub

The old Taxi Park is also a commercial center. Vendors set up shops around the park, offering a variety of goods and services. The Taxi Park offers many opportunities for capturing unique photographs that reflect the essence of Kampala. The lively scenes, vibrant colors, and the constant motion of people and vehicles can make for interesting visual compositions.

  Old Taxi Park Travel Tip : If you walk up the stairs in the nearby mall you will have a great view over the Old Taxi Park and the nearby busy streets. It's also a great spot to watch the sunset over Downtown Kampala; a free thing to do!

Taxi Park things to do Kampala

11. Discover the Bahá'í Temple

The Bahá'í Temple , also known as the Mother Temple of Africa, is set on Kikaya Hill , one of the 7 hills that surround Kampala. This magnificent temple offers panoramic views of Kampala and provides a serene space for reflection and meditation. The Bahá’í Faith was introduced to Uganda in 1951, making it one of the earliest Bahá’í communities in Eastern Africa. Bahá’í Houses of Worship are spiritual gathering places open to all peoples.

Explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and learn about the Bahá'í faith. The property (opened in 1961) includes the Bahá'í House of Worship, the peaceful gardens, a guest house, and an administrative center.

For a very long time, Uganda was the only country in Africa with a Bahá'í Temple. However, in recent years they built a temple in Kenya and the world’s first national Bahá'í House of Worship in Congo, DRC. They also plan to build another one in Zambia .

12. Visit the Namirembe Cathedral

Namirembe Cathedral Kampala City Tour

The Namirembe Cathedral , also known as St. Paul's Cathedral Namirembe , is one of the oldest and most iconic cathedrals in Uganda. It holds a significant place in the country's history and serves as the headquarters of the Anglican Church of Uganda. Tourists can attend these services.

The panoramic views of Kampala city are another reason why the Namirembe Cathedral is one of the beautiful places to visit in Kampala. The cathedral is located on Namirembe Hill , one of the 7 hills of Kampala.

13. Buy Souvenirs at Kampala Craft Markets

Souvenir Shops Kampala

Explore the vibrant craft markets in Kampala , such as the National Crafts Village at the Kampala National Theatre complex, the African Village Market in Kisementi, the East African Craft Village, or the Uganda Crafts 2000 Limited .

These bustling markets offer a wide selection of traditional crafts, including colorful textiles, wood carvings, jewelry, basketry, and artwork. Engage with local artisans, learn about their techniques, and take home unique Ugandan souvenirs.

  Responsible Travel Tip: By purchasing souvenirs on one of the local markets, you support local artisans. You might not need a souvenir to bring back home, but buying a souvenir at these stalls is a great way to give back to local Ugandans and their community.  If you don't want to take your souvenir from Uganda back home, you can gift it to a local Ugandan you meet along the way. Another option is to buy some school materials to gift to a rural school.

Travel responsible, buy local products as souvenirs

If you're done souvenir shopping in these tourist places and want to experience some upscale malls, you can also visit various shopping malls in Kampala, like the Oasis Mall in Centenary Park and Acacia Shopping Mall in Kisementi. Acacia Mall has various shops, cafes and restaurants. Cafesserie is a nice hangout place in the mall with a nice menu and ambiance. Other malls are Lugogo Shopping Mall (Kabalagala) and Freedom City (Entebbe Road).

14. Experience Ndere Cultural Center

Nestled in a beautiful garden setting, The Ndere Cultural Center is a cultural hub for tourists visiting Uganda to experience traditional dances, music, and storytelling that highlight the diverse ethnic groups of Uganda. Attend captivating evening shows that feature energetic drumming, African dances, and traditional songs performed by talented artists wearing colorful traditional clothing.

Through its performances, it seeks to foster unity, understanding, and appreciation for Uganda's cultural diversity . It's an excellent opportunity to gain insights into the history, rituals, and beliefs of various ethnic Ugandan groups, as well as witness the fusion of traditional and contemporary elements in Ugandan music and dance .

Traditional Ugandan Dances at Ndere Cultural Center

Apart from the performances, this Kampala tourist hub also hosts workshops, where you can learn traditional crafts, musical instruments, and dance moves. Visiting the Ndere Cultural Center is definitely among the best things to do in Kampala. Engage with the artists, take part in interactive sessions, and get a hands-on experience of Uganda's cultural expressions.

15. Kampala Sightseeing Bus Tour

Kampala Sightseeing Bus Tour

If you’re short on time, you can also explore Kampala City with the Kampala Sightseeing Bus . This city sightseeing tour offers two daily trips and the journey takes between 4 and 5 hours depending on the traffic. The bus will take you to Kampala’s top sights such as the Uganda Museum, The National Theater, Nakasero Market, Rubaga Cathedral, Namirembe Cathedral, Kabaka’s Lake, Kabaka Royal Palace, Uganda national mosque, Bahai Temple, the Independence Monument, and many other things to see in Kampala. The tour starts at the BMK House next to Hotel Africana .

I listed the bus sightseeing tour as some of the best things to do in Kampala to give you more ways of exploring Kampala City. Personally, I prefer a private guided tour to experience Uganda’s capital city, like the one I did with Sites Travel.

Hop on Hop Off Bus Kampala

16. Kampala by Night Party Bus

Wondering what to do in Kampala at night? Experience the energy of Kampala's nightlife in a unique and thrilling way with the Kampala by Night Party Bus . Stepping aboard the party bus is without a doubt one of the most fun things to do in Kampala . The party bus is equipped with a high-quality sound system, dazzling lights, and comfortable seating, getting you ready for a night of excitement, music, and dancing in the city that never sleeps.

Kampala By Night Party Bus Tour

I experienced this fun activity during my last safari trip to Uganda together with Explore Uganda (the Uganda Tourism Board). We had a lot of fun, and it was a great way to get to know the people in the neighboring seats. I left my camera in the hotel at Speke Resort Munyonyo, so I only have a few phone images.

As the party bus hits the road, you'll cruise through the streets of Kampala, immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere and beats of the nightlife in Kampala . It's not for nothing that Kampala is regarded as the 'Las Vegas of Africa'. The city is very alive after dark with lots of bars and pubs to have a fun night out. The upscale nightlife spots are most safe for tourists in Kampala.

Popular Nightlife Spots & Bars in Kampala

Nightlife in Kampala

The Kampala by night route may include some of the following popular hangout places:

  • Industrial Area known for its trendy bars, lounges, and clubs;
  • Kisementi is a popular area filled with hip bars like Alchemist Bar, Sky Lounge Rooftop Bar with panoramic views of the city skyline, restaurants, and clubs offering a mix of local and international entertainment, ensuring a diverse and lively experience for partygoers;
  • The upscale residential Kololo is known for its trendy bars, rooftop lounges, and live music, like Casablanca Pub & Restaurant on Acacia Avenue, a bustling street lined with a variety of bars and clubs;
  • Ntinda is a lively neighborhood where you'll find a mix of local hangouts, clubs, and live music venues where you can enjoy performances by talented Ugandan artists and DJs;
  • Centenary Park is a popular entertainment complex offering a variety of bars, clubs, and open-air venues.

Prices of domestic and imported beers vary. In more upscale clubs you also pay higher prices. According to Numbeo that shares an overview of the cost of living in Kampala , the price for a domestic beer (0,5l draught) is around 0.81 - 3.22 USD.

The Kampala by Night Party Bus tour provides a safe and exciting way to discover the city's vibrant nightlife, hopping from one hotspot to another, and enjoying the music, drinks, and lively ambiance on board. It's a fantastic opportunity to socialize, dance, and create unforgettable memories with friends and fellow travelers in some of the coolest hangout spots in Kampala.

Fun thing to do in Kampala by night

Where to book the Kampala by-night party bus ride?

7o7safaris offered an exclusive luxury party bus that is available for dry hire and 25 persons max. There was also an open-roof party bus offered by “Promote Uganda Safaris Limited (PUS)", the same organization that offers the Kampala Sightseeing Bus Tour.

Party Bus Kampala Fun thing to do

17. Reflect at Uganda Martyrs' Shrine

This historical and religious site, also known as the Namugongo Martyrs' Shrine is located in Central Uganda 15 kilometers northeast of Kampala City. It commemorates the lives of 22 Christian converts who were executed for their faith in the late 19th century during the reign of Kabaka Mwanga II of Buganda. The shrine serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by these young men and women who chose to remain steadfast in their beliefs.

Apart from that, The Uganda Martyrs Shrine Namugongo is one of the largest Christian pilgrimage destinations in Africa and a place of reflection and prayer for visitors, especially during the annual Martyrs' Day celebrations on June 3rd, which is a public holiday in Uganda.

18. Unwind at Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria things to do Kampala

Take a break from the chaos in Kampala city and head to the tranquil shores of Lake Victoria , Africa's largest lake. Because the lake borders multiple countries, it's also one of the best things to do in East Africa.

Looking for a romantic thing to do in Kampala ? Go pick-nicking at Lake Victoria and head back after you watched a typical African sunset. A totally free thing to do in Kampala and you’re at the lake in no time. Other tourist activities on  Lake Victoria are a scenic boat ride, fishing excursions to catch Nile perch and tilapia, or simply relaxing by the waterfront.

Ggaba Fish Market

If you decide to visit Lake Victoria, Ggaba Market is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts. It’s a vibrant fish market where fishermen bring in their fresh catches of the day.

Birdwatching near Kampala

Birdwatching Lake Victoria from Kampala

Lake Victoria is also a paradise for birdwatchers. Some birds you can spot along the shores of Lake Victoria are the African Fish Eagle, Pied Kingfisher, and Malachite Kingfisher. A great place to see nearby Kampala is the Mabamba Swamp, known for the Shoebill watching activity. This birding activity starts from Entebbe but you can easily arrange a half-day trip from Kampala. Here are a few examples of birding tours in Uganda :

Island-hopping Lake Victoria

Ngamba Island best things to do near Kampala

Lake Victoria hosts many beautiful islands like Ssese Island, Bulingugwe Island, and Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, that are worth visiting when you travel to Uganda.

Lake Victoria Beaches near Kampala

Explore the pristine beaches and just relax on the shores of Lake Victoria. Some popular beaches near Kampala include Munyonyo Beach and Lido Beach .

Kampala Cycling

Are you a fan of cycling? A cool thing to do near Kampala is an off-the-beaten-path cycling tour around Lake Victoria, starting in Kampala. Here are examples of a cycling tour:

19. Water fun at Planet Water Park & Games in Kampala

If you’re traveling in Kampala with kids, check out Planet Water Park & Games . It’s the ultimate destination for thrilling water adventures and one of the most fun things to do in Kampala (with kids). Locals visit a lot as well, especially during weekends. Another option to hangout with kids is the Disney Kids Play Park.

20. Discover the Source of the Nile by boat on a day-trip from Kampala

visit the source of the nile from Kampala

You can find the Source of the Nile in Jinja, also known as Uganda’s adventure capital. Jinja is nearby Kampala, and it’s very easy to plan a day trip from Kampala to see the source of the Nile. Because Jinja is close Kampala, I included it in the best things to do nearby Kampala.

If you’re interested in visiting the source of the Nile and other tourist places in Uganda, I recommend reading  The 15 best places to visit in Uganda ,

Here are examples of 1 to 3-day tours to Jinja and the Source of the Nile:

20 Best things to do in Kampala

In summary, these are the 20 best things to do in Kampala , Uganda:

  • Uganda National Mosque
  • UNESCO Kasubi Tombs
  • Uganda National Museum
  • Kabaka’s Palace & Torture Cells
  • The Royal Mile
  • Mowimo Market
  • Eat Local Uganda Street food
  • Ugandan Coffee Experience Class
  • Nakasero Market
  • Old Taxi Park
  • Baha'i Temple
  • Namirembe Cathedral
  • Kampala Craft Markets
  • Ndere Cultural Center
  • Kampala Sightseeing Bus Tour
  • Kampala by night Party Bus
  • Uganda Martyr's Shrine
  • Lake Victoria
  • Planet Water Park & Games
  • Source of the Nile

Is Kampala worth visiting?

Is Kampala worth visiting?

When I first visited Uganda in 2018, I skipped Kampala in my 3-week itinerary because I read it’s too much chaos, not really a clean city, and nothing much to do. Since Kampala is the heart and soul of Uganda , I really wanted to explore the capital city whenever I would visit Uganda again, and I’m super happy I did! I will even visit Kampala again next time, as there’s still more to explore.

Is Kampala a clean city?  Not really! They try to keep the streets clean but there's a lot of dirt everywhere and looking at Kigali in Rwanda , Kampala still has a lot of work to do. Is Kampala chaotic? 100%. You just have to adapt and go with the flow to find peace in the crowds going about their daily lives.

Kampala Tourist Attractions and Markets

So, yes, Kampala is a place worth visiting ! From delving into the country's rich heritage at the Uganda Museum to exploring the serene shores of Lake Victoria, this city offers a diverse range of experiences.

Where to book a Kampala Walking Tour?

Book a Kampala Walking Tour and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors that make this African gem shine.

Plan your trip to Kampala today, and let this remarkable city leave an indelible mark on your travel memories. We booked our guided city tour through  Sites Travel , a local woman-owned travel agency based in the Kampala Serena Hotel that is listed as the best romantic places in Kampala.

It's obviously not the only one offering walking tours in Kampala or a full-day Kampala Tour but I had a good experience with them. They picked us up from the hotel, we first drove to a few sights more outside of downtown Kampala and then started our walking tour along the markets and old taxi park etc.

When is the best time to visit Kampala?

The best time to visit Kampala is all year round! Some people advise the dry season months of mid-December to February and June to August, but I traveled to Uganda in the shoulder seasons or rainy season in Uganda (March/April and October/November) and I really loved to visit Uganda and Kampala during that time. The average coldest month in Kampala, Uganda is July.

  Related: Best time to visit Uganda and Uganda weather by month .

Other things to do around Kampala

Gorilla Trekking Uganda

Kampala City is enormous, and there are probably more beautiful places to visit or unique things to do. Kampala also has a lot of monuments, like The Independence Monument , the Sir Edward Muteesa Monument, the World War 1 & 2 monuments, the sculpture of Sir Apollo Kagwa, the Statue of Leadership, and the Nakasero Hindu Temple . Kampala is also known for its Makerere University which was the only educational institute of its kind in East Africa for many years. That's also the reason why many prominent figures from Kenya, Tanzania , and Uganda at Makerere University, including Milton Obote, the former president of Uganda.

Tree Climbing Lion Ishasha Uganda

From Kampala, you can also plan  other things to do in Uganda ; for example, Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park , Shoe bill Watching along the shores of Lake Victoria in Entebbe, Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale , hiking along the Sipi Falls or go on safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park and Kidepo Valley National Park. I also wrote the 9 best things to do in Murchison Falls National Park and everything you need to know about Shoebill watching in Mabamba Swamp , Entebbe.

Best things to do in Kampala

If you want to explore all the sights Kampala offers or if you want to experience Kampala as a local, you can easily spend a week in Kampala. But the listed 20 best things to do in Kampala are a good start! Did I miss an important highlight or must-see in Uganda’s capital city? Please leave a comment below.

Want to travel to Uganda? Book your Uganda Safari Tour   here:

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I’m a NatGeo-published travel and wildlife photographer, and travel blogger on a mission to travel, explore, and capture the world with love and respect for our planet. I’m also a photo safari guide taking travel lovers on photography trips to Africa.I gave up my great position as a Policy Advisor at the government to follow my dreams. As a nature & wildlife enthusiast at heart, I feel at home in the African bush. It makes me feel humble, alive, and free. I understood my place in the world again and the important role we must play in maintaining our natural balance.In this busy world, we live in, I use my photography as an anchor to slow down and mindfully connect to nature, by observing and capturing our natural world from the heart, creating imagery that represents our wild nature & the true essence of life. To me, it's important to inspire others with our love for the natural world & its wildlife so that we can help preserve it for future generations.I believe that travel makes you a better person and enriches your life if you treat 'Mother Earth' and all its inhabitants the way you want to be treated, with love and respect!We hope you're enjoying our free travel tips and photos taken on our planet. If so, please consider supporting our work by buying us a coffee through https://ko-fi.com/ourplanetinmylens

The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price

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Is it safe to travel to Uganda this year?

The Independent March 24, 2024 Features , Features catergory , TOURISM Leave a comment

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SPECIAL FEATURE |  Security related issues are some of the things that are very hard to discuss without being impartial. Our perceptions are often informed by the negative news stories that make most of the headlines around the world. For a country like Uganda, it is hard for foreigners to consider it safe. Besides the bad history, any terror threats and attacks are often used as a more justifiable reason not visit the country.

But around the world, each country has its own share of security related issues. Every time you see a lock on the door, it is a reminder that the people in that community cannot be trusted in regard to respecting boundaries; if they did, there would not be any need for locks and wall fences.

Asking about security in Uganda before considering it your next safari destination is important. But if you genuinely wish to go on a safari in Uganda , then Embassy travel advisories should not be used as the only yardstick during your decision making.

Embassies often offer the best travel information but their main focus is comparing the structures that exist in a given country against their idealistic structures.

Though the Embassies travel advisories are usually biased in that regard, it is always good to check them out. On top of what the travel advisory will offer; here is what you need to know about safety in Uganda before booking your next Uganda safari .

It is Safer Travelling during day?

Generally speaking, unless you are travelling with a local; it is not recommended to travel at night in Uganda. If you have to travel, always leave your valuables locked somewhere. Most of the crimes in Uganda happen after dark.

There is not enough police to prevent most of the crimes that happen at night. With the help of the locals, you can get informed about the different dark spots in the community; that is, the places you should avoid.

Gun Violence?

It is common to see armed personnel in Uganda. But it is not common to hear of gun violence in Uganda. However the Congo-Uganda border villages have continually been a point of contention. It is one of those places that you might have to avoid if you can.

Since the Queen Elizabeth national park terror attacks, the national parks in the border districts always have heavy military deployment. This means that you ought to be more vigilant while outside the national park than when you are inside the national park.

It is also important to know that;

Though the UK travel advisory still stresses on the security situation in the southern sector of Kibale National Park , the Kibale Corridor Game Reserve including the Fort Portal – Kamwenge / Fort Portal – Mbarara Road, it is important to take caution while traveling within that route.

The areas immediately south west of Kasese Town as well as Queen Elizabeth National Park and Semuliki National Park are also areas where you need to take caution while exploring Uganda.

Despite Bwindi Impenetrable forest being close to the Democratic Republic of Congo border, the thick forest is still safe for tourism purposes. Things to do such as gorilla safaris are conducted daily across all the sectors of the famed National park.

Won’t animals attack me at night?

If you spend a night in the national park, there are number of animals that will likely visit the lodge or campsite in the middle of the night. These include hippos and hyenas. Campsites always have the camp fires to deter the animals. It is often safer to spend the night in lodge or opt for rooftop tent camping during your Uganda safari.

Is gang rape common in Uganda?

Gang rape is not common in Uganda. But it happens once in a while more so if you are fond of walking alone after dark. Gangs are not very active during the day. They are mainly active once the bars get busy.

Gangs are popular in congested places. For your personal safety during a Uganda safari adventure , stick to travelling in a group. Never walk alone at night. It highly recommended not to leave the bar before 5am.

Is racism common in Uganda?

Racism is not common in Uganda. But if you are a white person, people will always steer at you. This usually makes many people uncomfortable during their Uganda safari but it is what it is. People are not used to seeing white people in their neighborhood.

Last but not list, things will be unfairly priced for you if you are a white person visiting Uganda. It is always wise to buy stuff from supermarkets where the prices are already fixed and not up for bargaining. In other places such are fruit markets, you will need the help of a black person to buy things at a fair price.

Is Uganda Safe for Women Travelers?

It is very safe for single women travelers to explore Uganda. The Pearl of Africa is quite safe for travelers including female solo travelers. There is nothing to worry about during your travel and stay in Uganda. If you fear traveling alone, it is important to plan your Uganda tour with a local tour operator or opt for a guided safari. The tour guide will make you feel safe and most Uganda guides are professional, well trained and well mannered.

SOURCE: aasafaristours.com

Tags security tourism travel Uganda

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Ugandan Delegation Jets in for Week-Long Visit

A UGANDA People's Defence Forces (UPDF) Senior Command and Staff Course delegation is in the country for a week-long visit.

The visit is meant to afford participants an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the historical, political, defence, socio-economic and cultural sectors of Zimbabwe.

Head of delegation, Brigadier General Silver Muhwezi, said the visit was an important aspect to UPDF's manpower development as it affords an opportunity for its officers to acquaint themselves with regional and international affairs.

"I am leading a delegation from Uganda whose main component are students who are undertaking Senior Grade 2 Command and Staff Course.

"The purpose of us being here is part of the curriculum and studies on topics that are dealing with national and international studies, where we visit other countries to supplement our studies," he said.

As part of the studies, the delegation will today visit the National Museum and National Heroes Acre before going to Great Zimbabwe tomorrow.

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  2. 26 Beautiful Places to Visit in Uganda: Nature, Culture, Wildlife

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  3. Top 10 Uganda Destinations Great For Safari

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  4. 26 Beautiful Places to Visit in Uganda: Nature, Culture, Wildlife

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  5. The 15 Top Tourist Attractions In Uganda You Need To Visit

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  6. Where To Go, Places To Visit in Uganda, Safari Trip, Tour

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COMMENTS

  1. Uganda International Travel Information

    U.S. citizens intending to travel to Uganda for holiday, tourism, business, study, visit, and/or medical treatment are required to apply and obtain a visa online in advance of travel on the Government of Uganda's Electronic Visa/Permit Application System website.U.S. citizens who have recently attempted entry without completing the electronic visa process in advance of their travel have been ...

  2. 33 Things To Know Before You Travel To Uganda in 2024

    19. Uganda tourism is expensive. In case you didn't know yet, traveling in Africa is expensive and Uganda is no exception. If you eat local, sleep local and travel local then you can travel Africa on a budget. But as soon as you want to see some of the best places to visit in Uganda, things get a lot more expensive.

  3. 26 Beautiful Places to Visit in Uganda: Nature, Culture, Wildlife

    8. Owino Market. One of the largest markets in the region, the Owino Market is a must-do experience when visiting Uganda. Located in the capital city, Kampala, this busy market is full of color and character from its wide array of produce, clothing, electronics, and crafts to its lively vendors and customers.

  4. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Uganda

    4. Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre. 547. Zoos. The Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (Entebbe Zoo) is located 15 minutes from Entebbe International Airport, 36 kilometers from Uganda's capital Kampala. The centre cares for rescued animals, often victims of bush meat trade, habitat destruction, or illegal trade.

  5. Uganda travel

    Uganda. The source of the Nile river starts in the Rwenzoris, Africa's tallest mountain range that stretch across western Uganda shrouded in mist and teeming with glaciers, waterfalls and alpine lakes. These 'mountain's of the moon' are the home of Uganda's mountain gorillas and tracking them through this majestic habitat is one of ...

  6. Explore Uganda

    The Pearl of Africa is blessed with an undeniable natural beauty. In the west, the Rwenzori peaks reach towards the sky, the perfect challenge for bold explorers. Across the nation, parks are home to some of the world's most exotic animals: Silverbacks, lions and countless others, ooh…. Uganda is home to Africa's big 7. Winding roads lead ...

  7. 15 Best places to visit in Uganda

    6. Kibale National Park: The Primate Capital of Africa. Kibale Forest National Park is known as Uganda's primate capital of the world and the best place to visit in Uganda to see the chimpanzee. Booking a chimpanzee trekking is the only way to see the chimps in Kibale.

  8. Planning a Trip to Uganda

    Uganda Travel Guide - 10 Day Itinerary. Day 1: Arrive in Entebbe and say at the Protea Entebbe for one night. 2-3: Visit Murchison Falls National Park, stay at the Nile Safari Lodge and take game drives, river cruises, and visit the falls. 4-5: Visit Kibale National Park to hike with Chimpanzees.

  9. How To Travel To Uganda

    Uganda's International borders are open 24/7 and the best way to travel to Uganda is by air through Entebbe International Airport, 37 kilometres outside the capital. One can enter or exit Uganda by road using any of the 40 existing immigration stations around the country's border, including; Rwanda (southwest) - Kagitumba, Gatuna & Kyanika.

  10. The Ultimate Uganda Travel Guide • The Blonde Abroad

    Rain is actually the biggest factor in Uganda as the temperature is pretty consistent all year round. You will find temperatures up to the mid-80s Fahrenheit on the warmest days with most days averaging around 78 F degrees. Chilly nights can drop down into the 60s (or even the 50s in the mountains) so be sure to pack a warm jacket.

  11. A Brief Travel Guide to Uganda for First-Timers

    Proposal itinerary for 2 weeks or more in Uganda. Day one - Pick up at the airport and a Kampala city tour. Day two - Transfer to Jinja City, zip lining and white water rafting at the source of the Nile. Day three - Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park (stopover at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary)

  12. The Ultimate Uganda Itinerary

    Table of Contents. Uganda Itinerary. Day 1 - Travel day. Day 2 - Entebbe. Day 3 - Lake Mburo National Park. Day 4 - Horseback Safari. Day 5 - Culture Village Tour. Day 6 - Gorilla Trekking. Day 7 - Mutanda Lake Resort.

  13. 10 Excellent Tips for Planning a Trip to Uganda

    Tipping in Uganda. Tipping is normal and expected all over Uganda. One of the best Uganda tips I can provide is to budget this into your travel experience and know that you will be handing out cash all over the place. Many locals do accept USD, but tipping in Ugandan Shilling is also highly prefered.

  14. Top 20 things to do in Uganda

    8. Have fun on Lake Victoria. While in Entebbe, you have to make the most of Lake Victoria! This majestic expanse of water is shared by Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya. Spending time on the waters of Lake Victoria is most definitely on our list of the top 20 things to do in Uganda! Fishermen on the shore of Lake Victoria.

  15. 15 Incredible Things to do in Uganda [Culture ...

    Amazing wildlife, awe-inspiring waterfalls, grand lakes, vibrant culture, and heart-racing adventures all await you in Uganda. So, if you are pumped and ready to learn more, check out the following 15 incredible things to do in Uganda. 1. Straddle the Equator. The best place to straddle the equator in Uganda is Kayabwe of the Mpigi District ...

  16. 10 Reasons You Should Visit Uganda

    2. Explore the bird paradise that is Lake Bunyonyi. Lake Bunyonyi, which means "lake of small birds," is located in southwestern Uganda. It is the second-deepest freshwater lake in Africa and is a stunning view when seen from one of the hills around it.

  17. 12 Most Beautiful Places in Uganda to Visit

    As the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the waters and painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, it's evident why Lake Victoria remains one of the best places to visit in Uganda. The view of traditional boats sailing in front of a beautiful sunset on Lake Victoria. 6. Murchison Falls.

  18. Uganda Travel Guide: Everything Uganda Tourists Need to Know

    A visit to Uganda will change your soul as you get to experience the best treats from the Pearl of Africa. You can explore nature's bearings and the rich cultural aspects of the region. There are tons of things to do in Uganda. Nicki, the founder of Explorer Chick, specifically created a trip to Uganda because of the impact it has had on her ...

  19. Uganda Entry & Visa Requirements

    Visas: To obtain a visa for Uganda, you can either visit a Uganda Consulate in your country or apply for an 'e-visa' online. East African Visa (one visa for Uganda, Rwanda, & Kenya): You can also apply for a 90-day East African Tourist Visa. Yellow fever certificate: You will need a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate to enter Uganda.

  20. Travel Advisory: Uganda

    See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights Report for further details. U.S. Embassy Kampala. 1577 Ggaba Road. Kampala, Uganda. [email protected]. https://ug.usembassy.gov. State Department - Consular Affairs. 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444. Uganda Country Information.

  21. Uganda travel advice

    Travel insurance. If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency ...

  22. 20 Best things to do in Kampala

    Kampala is the heart and soul of Uganda!Also known as the City of 7 Hills, this vibrant capital city is a must-visit when you travel to Uganda. Bordering Lake Victoria (the largest freshwater lake in Africa) and surrounded by many rolling hills, Kampala offers a variety of things to do and places to see that will make your visit truly memorable.. In this comprehensive guide, we'll share the 20 ...

  23. Is it safe to travel to Uganda this year?

    The Pearl of Africa is quite safe for travelers including female solo travelers. There is nothing to worry about during your travel and stay in Uganda. If you fear traveling alone, it is important to plan your Uganda tour with a local tour operator or opt for a guided safari. The tour guide will make you feel safe and most Uganda guides are ...

  24. Ugandan Delegation Jets in for Week-Long Visit

    A UGANDA People's Defence Forces (UPDF) Senior Command and Staff Course delegation is in the country for a week-long visit.The visit is meant to afford participants an opportunity to familiarise ...

  25. Administrative Management Assistant (CDC)

    U.S. Citizens with emergencies, please call 0772-138-910. Outside of Office Hours, contact: 0414-306-001. Outside of Uganda: (256) 414-306-800

  26. The Duke of Edinburgh visits Uganda with the International Award

    Published 22 March 2024. This week, The Duke of Edinburgh visited Uganda on a three-day visit to grow awareness of the International Award and the impact Non-Formal Education and Learning can have on young people and their communities. On Monday, The Duke arrived in Kampala for a three-day visit with The Duke of Edinburgh's International ...