- +254 722 510 431 | +254 733 556 555
- info@safarisandbeyond.com
- Gigiri Drive, Off UN Avenue, Kenya
- +254 722 510 431 | +254 733 556 555
- info@safarisandbeyond.com
- Gigiri Drive, Off UN Avenue, Kenya
Uganda, often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences, from thrilling wildlife encounters to breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re trekking to see the rare mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or cruising along the Nile River, Uganda offers diverse adventures that cater to all kinds of travelers. With its lush rainforests, vast savannahs, and towering mountains, Uganda is a haven for nature lovers and adrenaline seekers alike.
About Uganda
Uganda’s history and culture are as rich as its wildlife. From the ancient Buganda Kingdom to gaining independence from British rule in 1962, Uganda is a nation of resilience and warmth. The country is deeply rooted in tradition and hospitality, with over 34 million people calling Uganda home.
Uganda’s diverse landscapes include everything from lush rainforests to expansive savannahs, and its national parks like Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, and Murchison Falls offer premier wildlife viewing. The country is also home to a variety of indigenous species, including the mountain gorilla and chimpanzee, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
Why Visit Uganda?
Uganda is an exceptional destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility. For wildlife enthusiasts, it’s one of the few places in the world where you can track mountain gorillas, with Bwindi Impenetrable Forest home to almost half of the world’s remaining population. But the wonders don’t end there—Uganda also offers chimpanzee tracking, thrilling game drives, birdwatching, and even white-water rafting on the Nile. Adventure seekers can trek the Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” or scale Mount Stanley, Africa’s third-highest peak. With a mix of serene landscapes and vibrant wildlife, Uganda provides an unparalleled travel experience.
Top Experiences in Uganda
Gorilla Trekking: Uganda is one of only a few countries where you can see mountain gorillas in the wild. Trekking through the misty rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to witness these majestic creatures is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Chimpanzee Tracking: Uganda offers some of the best opportunities for chimpanzee trekking. Kibale National Park is home to one of the largest populations of chimpanzees in Africa, and tracking them in the wild is an incredible experience.
Game Drives & Wildlife Viewing: Uganda is home to the Big Five—lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos—along with unique wildlife like tree-climbing lions and the sitatunga antelope. Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park are great places to spot these animals.
Birdwatching: Uganda is a top destination for birdwatchers, with over 1,000 species, including the rare and elusive shoebill stork. Birdwatching is rewarding all year, but it peaks between November and April when migrant species are present.
Nile Adventures: The Nile River offers thrilling activities such as white-water rafting, kayaking, and bungee jumping. You can also explore the river on a boat safari to spot wildlife along the banks.
Mountain Trekking: For those seeking a challenge, the Rwenzori Mountains offer a unique trekking experience. Alternatively, Mount Stanley, part of the Rwenzori range, is perfect for mountaineers looking to summit one of Africa’s highest peaks.
Plan Your Uganda Adventure
With expert advice from our travel specialists, your Uganda journey can be tailored to suit your preferences. Whether you want a luxury safari or a budget-friendly adventure, we’ll help you create an unforgettable experience in this extraordinary destination.
Planning a trip to Uganda? Whether you’re trekking to see the majestic gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or exploring the vast savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park, it’s important to have your travel documents in order. From visa and passport requirements to practical tips for navigating Uganda’s diverse landscapes, here’s everything you need to know to ensure a seamless arrival and a smooth journey through this breathtaking destination.
Visa rules are subject to change based on nationality and current government policy. We highly recommend confirming requirements with the nearest Kenyan consulate or official immigration website before departure.
Obtaining all necessary visas in advance is the best way to avoid delays and long queues, especially if you are connecting between countries.
Visa Required:
Yes — most travelers need a visa to enter Uganda. These can be obtained online in advance via the Uganda Electronic Visa/Permit System or on arrival at major border crossings and Entebbe International Airport.
Visa Options & Validity
Passport Requirements
Travel Between Uganda and Neighboring Countries
If traveling between Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda, the East Africa Tourist Visa offers the most seamless experience — especially for itineraries that include gorilla trekking, regional flights, or multi-country safaris.
For travelers entering Uganda after arriving in Kigali or Nairobi, be sure to secure your visa in advance to avoid border delays, especially when coordinating connections to remote lodges or parks.
Visa Fees & Payment Advice
Where visas are still obtainable at the port of entry (such as in Uganda and Rwanda), fees are typically payable in USD cash only.
We recommend carrying small-denomination bills (issued after 2008) as officials may not have change for larger notes.
Uganda Currency & Payment Information
Local Currency
Uganda’s official currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). Banknotes are commonly used in denominations from 1,000 to 50,000 UGX.
Using US Dollars
US Dollars are widely accepted across Uganda, particularly at safari lodges, hotels, and for national park fees or domestic flights.
Please ensure all USD bills are clean, crisp, and printed after 2008. Older, damaged, or torn notes may not be accepted, even at banks.
Card Payments and ATMs
Credit and debit cards (mainly Visa and Mastercard) are accepted at most lodges and higher-end establishments. A small transaction fee of 3–5% may apply.
ATMs are widely available in major cities such as Kampala, Entebbe, and Jinja. However, access becomes limited—and sometimes unavailable—in rural or remote safari areas. We strongly recommend withdrawing sufficient cash before departing for the bush.
Banking Hours
Most banks in Uganda operate from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Some branches, especially in larger cities or at airports, may open on Saturdays with reduced hours.
Currency exchange services are available at banks, major hotels, and licensed forex bureaus. Avoid exchanging money with street vendors.
Tipping and Small Purchases
Tipping is customary in Uganda’s tourism industry. Guides, drivers, and lodge staff always appreciate a small gesture of thanks. Both UGX and USD are commonly used for tips.
Carry small UGX notes for incidental purchases, market visits, and local interactions. Lodges may include a gratuity option at checkout, but cash tips are always welcomed for personal service.
What to Bring
We recommend traveling with a mix of USD (in small denominations) and a credit or debit card. You can exchange some of your dollars into shillings at the airport or a trusted forex bureau. Our team will advise you on what’s most convenient for your specific route and lodge selections
Is tipping expected in Uganda?
Tipping is not mandatory in Uganda, but it is warmly appreciated throughout the tourism and hospitality industry. It’s a meaningful way to acknowledge good service and directly support the people who make your journey special — from your driver-guides to the lodge staff who ensure every detail is just right.
Who should I tip—and how much?
Below is a general guide for tipping during a safari in Uganda. Amounts are per guest, in US Dollars or local Ugandan Shillings (UGX):
Safari Driver-Guide: $10–$20 per guest per day
Lodge/Hotel Staff (general staff pool): $5–$10 per guest per night (usually placed in a central tip box)
Trackers or Rangers (e.g., gorilla trekking): $10–$20 per guest per trek
Porters (for luggage or gorilla treks): $5–$10 per porter
Airport/Hotel Transfers: $2–$5 per guest
Tips can be given in cash and are usually pooled and shared among staff at lodges. For gorilla treks, rangers and porters can be tipped individually at the end of the experience.
Currency & Method
Both USD and UGX are accepted for tipping. We recommend carrying small denomination USD bills (issued after 2008) or withdrawing UGX once in the country for smaller, day-to-day gratuities.
When in doubt…
Our safari team will brief you on tipping expectations along your route. Some properties include suggested tipping guidelines in your welcome materials or guest booklets.
Final Word
Tipping is a personal gesture—there are no strict rules. Let your level of appreciation guide you. If you feel someone has gone above and beyond, a tip is a wonderful way to say thank you.
It is highly recommended that you take out adequate travel insurance at the time of confirming your booking. This should cover any medical situation (such as hospitalisation), as well as cancellation or curtailment of arrangements and loss of your baggage. When you travel with us, you are automatically covered by our emergency evacuation insurance. This provides emergency medical services/evacuation to hospital should you suffer either severe illness or an injury whilst traveling with us. As this is for emergency evacuation only, it does not cover the cost of treatment once in hospital and in no way replaces your normal travel insurance, which must be purchased prior to travel.
The usual safety guidelines apply – don’t leave your luggage unattended and always keep your valuables close by or locked away. It is advised you check with your tour operator or hotel concierge – they will know if there are any potentially unsafe areas along your travel route.
It is wise to avoid deserted areas, particularly at night. Dress-down (i.e. don’t wear excessive jewellery) when exploring East Africa’s diverse cities. Concealed travel wallets are recommended.
Safaris and Beyond travellers have exclusive access to a 24/7 hotline manned by senior staff in the event of any emergency, no matter how small.
Cultural Courtesy
Ugandans are known for their warmth and hospitality, and showing mutual respect goes a long way. Greetings are important—whether you’re meeting a lodge host or a local community member, a smile and a handshake (with your right hand) are always appreciated.
Take your time when engaging with locals. Ugandan culture values politeness and patience over rushed interactions.
Dress Code
Dress is generally modest in Uganda, especially in rural areas and towns. While safari lodges are relaxed about attire, we recommend wearing knee-length shorts, trousers, or skirts, and covering shoulders when visiting villages, churches, or markets.
For city visits or cultural experiences, lightweight, neutral clothing is ideal—along with a scarf or light cover-up for women.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural communities or local markets. In some places, photography may not be allowed (e.g., border posts, military areas), so follow guidance from your guide.
Can I bring a drone to Uganda?
Yes—but only with advance permission. Drones are considered regulated equipment in Uganda and must be cleared through the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) before travel. Unauthorized import or usage may lead to confiscation at the airport, fines, or denial of entry for the device. Due to the complexity and restrictions, most leisure travelers opt not to travel with drones in Uganda. High-quality lodge photography and guided experiences will provide plenty of incredible visuals—no propellers required.
Best Time to Travel to Uganda
Uganda is a year-round destination, but the experience you have can vary depending on the season and the type of adventure you’re after. Thanks to its location near the equator, Uganda enjoys a pleasant tropical climate with two main dry seasons and two wetter periods.
Best Overall Travel Period:
June to August and December to February are considered the prime travel months, especially for wildlife and gorilla trekking. These are the dry seasons, when conditions are ideal for hiking, safaris, and spotting animals gathered near water sources.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking
While gorilla trekking is possible all year, the dry months (June–August and December–February) offer the easiest hiking conditions and better visibility in the forest. Permits sell out quickly during these periods, so advance booking is essential.
Green Season Advantages
March to May and October to November bring the rains—but they also bring rewards. Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower lodge rates make this a beautiful time for photographers and travellers seeking solitude. Roads may be muddier, but the birdlife is phenomenal and the national parks are bursting with life.
Month-by-Month Highlights
What We Recommend
For a balanced experience that combines adventure, comfort, and stunning scenery, we often recommend June to early October or mid-December to February. However, our travel designers can tailor your trip to match your interests—whether that’s low-season value, exclusive wildlife sightings, or cultural events.
Uganda has a tropical climate, with temperatures remaining warm throughout the year, thanks to its location near the equator. The country experiences two rainy seasons: the long rains from March to May and the short rains from October to November. While the rains can make roads muddier and some areas harder to access, they also bring lush landscapes, vibrant greenery, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. The dry months, from June to August and December to February, offer ideal conditions for trekking and safaris, with clearer skies and easier trails.
Flights to Uganda
Uganda is well-connected by air, with Entebbe International Airport (EBB) serving as the main gateway for international travelers. Several major airlines, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and KLM, offer regular flights to Entebbe from key hubs worldwide. From the airport, it’s easy to arrange transfers to hotels, national parks, or other destinations across the country.
Getting Around Uganda
While public transport is available, it’s often more convenient and comfortable to travel by private vehicle or safari vehicle, especially for longer distances or trips to remote areas. Domestic flights are available to key safari destinations, reducing travel time between regions. For a more adventurous experience, travelers can also opt for train travel or buses that connect major cities. Within cities, taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are widely available for short trips.
Clothing
Accessories
Health & Safety
Documents & Essentials
Electronics
Karibu – Welcome
Yes, it’s used here too! Especially in the tourism space. But in Uganda, you’ll also hear “Tukusanyukidde” (We are happy to welcome you) in Luganda, one of the main languages. It’s not just a greeting—it’s hospitality in motion.
Webale (nnyo) – Thank you (very much)
A smile-magnet, this phrase is your golden key to Ugandan warmth. Say “Webale” to thank someone, or “Webale nnyo” to really make it heartfelt.
Gyebale Ko – Well done / Hello
A Luganda phrase used to acknowledge someone’s effort or simply greet them—especially elders or workers. It’s respectful and appreciated.
Oli otya? / Bulungi – How are you? / Fine
“Oli otya?” is the go-to “How are you?” in Luganda, and the cheerful answer is “Bulungi!” Even if you mispronounce it a little, locals will love your effort.
Kikola ssente mmeka? – How much does it cost?
The golden phrase in markets! Pronounced roughly: chee-koh-lah sen-teh meh-kah? This one phrase can spark a whole conversation—and maybe even a better price.
Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, doesn’t just earn its name from its biodiversity or lush beauty—it’s also one of East Africa’s most consistently temperate countries. Straddling the equator, Uganda enjoys a tropical climate without the extremes. That means warm days, cool nights, and relatively predictable seasons, making it a flexible year-round destination for both leisure and adventure travellers.
But to craft truly curated journeys, knowing the nuances of Uganda’s seasons helps. Here’s what to keep in mind: