UGANDA

Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” is a landlocked country in East Africa, straddling the equator and renowned for its diverse landscapes, from the source of the Nile to the Rwenzori Mountains, and its incredible primate populations, including mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. Its rich tribal history and vibrant cultures add to its allure.

Region: East Africa

Capital: Kampala

Official Language: English, Swahili (Luganda is also widely spoken)

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise a high degree of caution due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime, particularly in urban areas and near borders with South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Avoid walking alone at night. Security measures are increased in public places and national parks.

A map of Africa with Uganda highlighted in green.

Why Visit Uganda?

Gorilla Trekking: Uganda is home to half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, making it the best destination for gorilla trekking.

Wildlife Safaris: Uganda offers some of Africa’s best wildlife viewing, from tree-climbing lions to elephants and giraffes.

Scenic Landscapes: The country boasts diverse landscapes, from the towering Rwenzori Mountains to the tranquil shores of Lake Victoria.

Two giraffes stand close together on a dirt path, looking towards the camera.

Rich Culture: Uganda’s cultural heritage is vibrant and diverse, with over 56 different ethnic groups.

Adventure Activities: Uganda provides opportunities for white-water rafting on the Nile, hiking in the Rwenzoris, or exploring the stunning Sipi Falls.

Warm Hospitality: Ugandans are known for their friendliness and welcoming attitude.

A close-up of a chimpanzee's face, looking directly at the viewer.

Essential Trip Information

Uganda requires a visa for most visitors.

Visa On Arrival: Available at Entebbe International Airport.

E-Visa: Apply online at the Uganda Immigration Portal.

Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay.

Visa Fees: E-visa fees are around US$50-100, depending on nationality.

Entry Requirements: Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel, accommodation bookings, and sufficient funds.

Currency: Ugandan Shilling (UGX).

US$ Exchange: Widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas.

Best Ways to Handle Currency:

  • Before Your Trip: Exchange a small amount at a local bureau or airport.
  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs in major cities (e.g., Kampala) or exchange offices. Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at hotels and larger shops.
  • What to Avoid: Avoid street money changers and high commission fees.

Official Languages: English, Luganda, Swahili.

Helpful Phrases:

  • “How are you?” – “Oli otya?” (Luganda)
  • “Thank you” – “Webale” (Luganda)
  • “Where is…?” – “Wali w’?”

General Safety: Uganda is generally safe for tourists. Exercise usual caution in busy areas, especially in Kampala.

Precautions: Beware of pickpockets, particularly in crowded areas.

Emergency number: 999 for police and ambulance services.

Vaccinations: Yellow Fever vaccination is required. Malaria prevention is recommended.

Travel Insurance: Highly recommended, as healthcare can be expensive, particularly for tourists.

Pharmacies: Available in cities and towns; tap water is not always safe, so drink bottled water.

Buses: There is a well-established bus network between major cities.

Taxis: Reliable but may not always have meters. Always agree on the fare before your journey.

Boda-Bodas: Popular and cheap motorbike taxis, but not recommended for long distances or in heavy traffic.

Uganda is an affordable destination, with prices varying depending on location and type of service.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Hostels ($15–30/night)
  • Mid-range: 3-star hotels ($40–90/night)
  • Luxury: 5-star hotels ($150+/night)

Food:

  • Local meals: $3–7
  • Casual dining: $10–20
  • Fine dining: $25+

Drinks:

  • Beer: $2–4 (local brands)
  • Cocktails: $7–15

Transportation:

  • Local buses: $0.50–2/ride
  • Taxis/Uber: $10–20 for short trips
  • Motorbike taxis (Boda-bodas): $1–5 per trip

Money-Saving Tips:

  • Visit national parks with entry fees below US$40 for a full-day experience.

  • Ride local buses for longer distances, or use motorbike taxis (Boda-bodas) for short, affordable trips.

  • Stay in budget guesthouses or homestays to experience local culture.

Explore Uganda

Located in southwestern Uganda, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. It offers an unparalleled gorilla trekking experience through dense rainforest, a truly unforgettable encounter with these magnificent primates.

Uganda’s largest national park, situated in the northwest, is bisected by the Nile River. Its highlight is Murchison Falls, where the entire Nile squeezes through a 23-foot (7-meter) gorge. Boat safaris to the falls and delta offer incredible wildlife viewing, including elephants, giraffes, and hippos.

Spanning the southwest of Uganda, this diverse park is famous for its tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, abundant elephants, buffalo, and a wide array of birdlife. Kazinga Channel offers fantastic boat cruises, while the Maramagambo Forest is known for its chimps and bats.

Often referred to as the “Primate Capital of the World,” this park in western Uganda is the best place in East Africa for chimpanzee trekking. Its dense tropical rainforest also hosts 12 other primate species and a rich birdlife.

A breathtakingly beautiful freshwater lake in southwestern Uganda, near the Rwandan border, known for its 29 islands and terraced hillsides. It’s a serene spot for relaxation, birdwatching, canoeing, and cultural visits to local villages, often used as a post-safari unwind.

A remote yet incredibly rewarding park in northeastern Uganda, bordering South Sudan and Kenya. Kidepo boasts stunning rugged landscapes and unique wildlife not found elsewhere in Uganda, including cheetahs, ostriches, and vast herds of buffalo, offering an exclusive safari experience.

A beautiful archipelago of 84 islands in Lake Victoria, off the northern shore of the lake in central Uganda. These islands offer tranquil retreats with sandy beaches, palm trees, and opportunities for swimming, birdwatching, and enjoying the relaxed island life.

Part of the Virunga Massif in southwestern Uganda, bordering Rwanda and DRC, this park is another home to mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. It offers both gorilla and golden monkey trekking, as well as volcano climbing for panoramic views.

Located in central Uganda on the way to Murchison Falls, Ziwa is Uganda’s only rhino sanctuary. It offers the unique opportunity to track white rhinos on foot, contributing to the reintroduction of rhinos into Uganda’s national parks.

Situated in eastern Uganda, at the point where the Nile River exits Lake Victoria, Jinja is known as the “Adventure Capital of East Africa.” It offers thrilling white-water rafting, bungee jumping, quad biking, and boat trips to the source of the Nile.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices on permits and accommodation.
  • Fewer Crowds for intimate wildlife encounters.
  • Lush, Green Landscapes perfect for photography.
  • Excellent Birdwatching with migratory species.
  • Easier Gorilla Trekking (gorillas tend to be at lower altitudes).

Main Drawbacks:

  • Frequent Heavy Rainfall can make roads challenging.
  • High Humidity and sometimes hot temperatures (75-85ºF / 24-29ºC).
  • Some Roads may be Impassable in remote areas.
  • Increased Mosquito Activity.

Key Regions:

  • Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Gorillas may be at lower altitudes, making treks shorter.
  • Kibale Forest National Park: Chimpanzees are often more active with abundant food.
  • Murchison Falls National Park: The falls are at full power; boat safaris are less affected by rain.
  • Lake Victoria (Jinja): Activities on the lake can still be enjoyed between showers.

Key Advantages:

  • Good Value with moderate prices.
  • Manageable Crowds for a more personal experience.
  • Pleasant Temperatures and improving weather.
  • Excellent for Wildlife Viewing as vegetation is less dense.
  • Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking conditions are good.

Main Drawbacks:

  • Prices start to increase towards peak season.
  • Some dust might be present in dryer areas.
  • Limited availability for permits if not booked in advance.
  • Roads can still be uneven from the wet season.

Key Regions:

  • Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Ideal conditions for gorilla trekking.
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park: Excellent game drives as animals gather around water.
  • Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Good conditions for rhino tracking.
  • Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Great for gorilla and golden monkey trekking.
  • Long Dry Season (June – August)
  • Short Dry Season (December – January)
  • Public Holidays (e.g., Christmas and New Year)

Planning Your Trip

Uganda’s culture is rich and diverse.

Politics: Keep discussions about politics neutral and avoid contentious topics.

Tipping: Generally not expected, but it is appreciated for good service (US$1–5 for waitstaff, hotel staff).

Dress Code: Modesty is appreciated, especially in rural areas. Casual attire is fine for sightseeing.

Museum Behavior: Remain quiet and respectful in cultural sites like the Uganda Museum or national parks.

Respect for Elders: Always show respect to elders, and greet them with a handshake.

Photography: Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.

Accommodation: Hostels (US$15–40), hotels (US$50–150), luxury (US$200+).

Food: Street food (US$2–5), local meals (US$5–15), international dining (US$20–50).

Transport: Public buses (US$5–20), taxis (US$10–30 for short trips), domestic flights (~US$100–150).

Activities: Gorilla trekking permits (US$600), safaris (US$150–300/day), boat tours (US$10–30).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$50–80 (hostels, local food, and transport).
  • Mid-range: US$100–200 (comfortable accommodation, meals, and activities).
  • Luxury: US$300+ (exclusive lodges, safaris, and fine dining).

Free Wi-Fi: Available in most hotels, cafes, and some public spaces in Kampala and major towns.

SIM Cards: Prepaid SIM cards from MTN, Airtel, or Africell are available (US$5–10 for 2–5GB).

eSIMs: Supported by major mobile providers.

Recommended for: Medical coverage, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

U.S. Healthcare: Medical costs in Uganda can be high, and emergency services may not meet international standards. Ensure your plan covers international emergencies.

Adventure Activities: Make sure your insurance covers adventure activities like trekking, safari, or kayaking. Some policies may exclude such activities.

Uganda offers a wide range of accommodations for all budgets, from luxury lodges to budget guesthouses.

Luxury:

  • Safari lodges: Chobe Safari Lodge (Murchison Falls), Mweya Safari Lodge (Queen Elizabeth).
  • Exclusive lodges: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge (Bwindi).

Mid-range:

  • Boutique hotels: The Emin Pasha Hotel (Kampala), Cassia Lodge (Kampala).
  • Eco-lodges: Lake Bunyonyi Overland Resort.

Budget:

  • Guesthouses: US$15–40/night (Jinja, Entebbe).
  • Hostels: The Silverback Lodge (Kampala), Red Chilli Hideaway (Murchison Falls).

Unique Stays:

  • Gorilla Trekking camps: Buhoma Community Rest Camp (Bwindi).
  • Lake Bunyonyi cabins: Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort.

Tip: Book early during the peak seasons (June–August and December–February), especially in gorilla trekking regions.

Transport options in Uganda range from public buses to private vehicles and internal flights.

Buses:

  • Public buses are cheap (US$5–20), but can be crowded, especially on long-distance routes.
  • Private buses (shuttles) are more comfortable (US$25–50), often with air conditioning.

Matatus (Shared Taxis):

  • Great for short trips between cities or towns (US$2–5 per person).
  • These can be cramped but are cheap and fast.

Private Car Rentals:

  • Renting a car with a driver (~US$50–80/day) is common, as driving in Uganda can be challenging due to rough roads and traffic.
  • Self-driving is not recommended for tourists unless you have significant experience with local conditions.

Domestic Flights:

  • Flights are available between Entebbe and regional destinations such as Kisoro, Kidepo, and Murchison Falls (~US$100–150).
  • Great for saving time on long distances.

Boda-Bodas (Motorcycle Taxis):

  • A popular, but risky way to navigate short distances in cities (US$1–3 per ride).
  • Always use helmets for safety.

Boat Transport:

  • Uganda’s many lakes make boat transport a scenic and enjoyable option, especially on Lake Victoria or Lake Bunyonyi (US$5–15 per ride).

Bold Recommendation: Consider hiring a driver for flexibility, and use domestic flights to save time between major destinations.

Handy Tips

Uganda uses the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). As a reference, US$1 = ~3,800–4,000 UGX (exchange rates vary).

  • Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport exchange desks due to poor rates. Use ATMs from major banks (e.g., Stanbic, Absa) for better rates. Carry some USD for emergencies.

  • Using Cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted at high-end hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets in cities like Kampala and Entebbe. Carry cash when traveling upcountry or visiting local markets.

  • Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is appreciated, not always expected.

    • Restaurants: 5–10% of the bill.

    • Tour Guides: US$5–10/day per person.

    • Drivers/Porters: US$1–2 per service.

    • Safari Lodges: Staff tipping boxes are common (ask the manager for guidelines).

English and Swahili are official languages. Luganda is widely spoken in central Uganda.

  • Useful phrases:

    • “Oli otya?” (How are you?)

    • “Webale” (Thank you)

    • “How much is this?”

Pro Tip: Ugandans are polite and warm. Greetings are valued—always greet before asking a question.

Uganda is generally safe, especially in tourist areas, but exercise caution in busy urban zones.

Watch your belongings in public taxis (“matatus”) or markets.

Avoid political demonstrations.

Emergency Contacts:

  • Police: 999 or 112
  • Ambulance: 911 (private services also available)
  • Your Embassy: Keep the contact number saved; many are in Kampala.

Uganda uses 240V/50Hz with Type G plugs (British standard—three rectangular prongs).

Bring an adapter if your electronics don’t match.

Power outages occur—consider a power bank for devices.

Tap water is not safe to drink without boiling or filtering.

Use bottled or filtered water (widely available and affordable).

Avoid ice in rural areas unless you’re sure it’s from filtered water.

Government offices and many businesses close on:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • 26 Jan: NRM Liberation Day

  • 8 Mar: International Women’s Day

  • 1 May: Labour Day

  • 9 Jun: Heroes’ Day

  • 9 Oct: Independence Day

  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day

  • 26 Dec: Boxing Day

  • Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha (dates vary)

Note: Public transport may be limited and some tourist attractions may operate reduced hours on holidays.

Malls & Supermarkets: Open daily 09:00–21:00

Local Markets: Start early, close by dusk (~18:00)

Pharmacies: 08:00–20:00, some open 24/7 in Kampala

Luwombo: Stew of beef, chicken, or groundnuts steamed in banana leaves—traditional Buganda delicacy.

Matoke: Steamed green bananas, usually served mashed with peanut or meat sauce.

Rolex: No, not the watch! A rolled chapati with eggs and veggies—a street food staple.

Grilled Tilapia: Fresh from Lake Victoria, usually spiced and served whole with posho.

Posho: A maize-based staple often served with stews or beans.

Muchomo: Skewered meat (goat or beef) grilled over charcoal—found at roadside stands.

Groundnut Sauce: Rich, nutty sauce poured over matoke or rice.

Chapati: Soft, flaky flatbread—eaten alone or stuffed in a rolex.

Mandazi: Fried sweet dough—East Africa’s version of a donut.

Kabalagala: Deep-fried banana pancakes, commonly eaten for breakfast or as a snack.

Alcoholic:

  • Uganda Waragi: A strong local gin, often mixed with tonic or Coke.

  • Nile Special: Uganda’s most famous beer—malty, rich, and award-winning.

  • Bell Lager: A lighter, crisp beer—great for hot afternoons.

  • Eagle Lager: Affordable and popular—made from locally sourced sorghum.

  • Rwenzori Wine: Local homemade fruit wines—try banana or hibiscus versions.

  • Banana Beer (Mwenge Biga): Traditional brew made from fermented bananas—usually homemade in villages.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Obushera: Fermented sorghum or millet porridge—served cool and slightly tangy.

  • Fresh Passion Juice: Widely available and refreshing with pulp intact.

  • Chap Chap Juice: Packaged fruit juice, popular for road trips.

  • Millet Porridge (Busera): Sweet or savory—breakfast favorite in Western Uganda.

  • Rwanda Tea: High-quality black tea grown in southwestern Uganda—served milky or strong.

Boat Cruise on Lake Victoria: Sunset or birding cruises available from Entebbe

Game Drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park: Lions, elephants, and crater lakes

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest: A thrilling half-day adventure

Whitewater Rafting on the Nile: From Jinja—world-class rapids

Hiking Sipi Falls: Three-tiered waterfalls with scenic mountain views

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Lifetime bucket-list experience

Nightlife in Kampala: Clubs and live music in Kololo and Kisementi

Craft Markets: Buy handmade jewelry, bags, drums, and art (Buganda Road is great)

Hot Springs in Semuliki: Natural boiling geysers in a remote forest setting

Cultural Dance Performances: Watch at Ndere Centre (Kampala)

Kasubi Tombs: UNESCO World Heritage site (royal Buganda tombs)

Uganda Museum: Offers a glimpse into traditional life, history, and artifacts

Namugongo Martyrs Shrine: Important religious site with modern cathedral

Kabaka’s Palace (Lubiri): Seat of the Buganda Kingdom—historical and political relevance

Bahá’í Temple: One of only seven in the world—quiet and scenic

Ssese Islands: Culturally rich archipelago with fishing villages and palm beaches

Rwenzori Mountains: Sacred to the Bakonzo people, ideal for trekking

Mparo Tombs: Burial site of Omukama Kabalega of Bunyoro

Igongo Cultural Centre (Mbarara): Learn about the Ankole Kingdom

Old Kampala Mosque (Gaddafi National Mosque): Climb the minaret for city views

Guvnor Kampala: Legendary club with VIP treatment and Afrobeat DJs.

Skyz Hotel Rooftop: Chic cocktails with a view of Kampala.

Café Javas (Late-Night Dining): Family-friendly spot with great coffee and big portions.

Big Mike’s Bar: Live music, good vibes, and grilled meats.

The Alchemist: Trendy cocktail bar with creative mixology.

Mestil Hotel & Residences Bar: High-end setting, perfect for wine or whiskey.

Bubbles O’Learys: Irish pub with expat crowd and quiz nights.

Bold Kampala: Art-forward space with craft drinks and curated music sets.

Gatsby’s Lounge: Popular for premium cocktails and relaxed ambiance.

The Lawns: Fine dining and outdoor cocktails under acacia trees.