There’s nothing like up-to-date, relevant travel information direct from the experts – get Saso Uganda Safaris essential Uganda Travel Advice before you go.

Quick Facts

• Area: 241,038 sq km
• Population: 45 Million
• Capital: Kampala
• Religions: Christian, Muslim
• Languages: English, Ganda or Luganda, other local languages, Swahili, Arabic
• Currency: Uganda Shilling (UGX)
• Time Zone: GMT + 3 hours

Money & Spending

Uganda’s unit of currency is the Uganda Shilling and you’d be advised to get some on arrival as it is far easier to buy drinks, curios, and meals in the local currency when travelling between destinations.

US Dollars are widely accepted throughout the country though note that cash is best: traveller’s cheques and credit cards can be used at most lodges and in Kampala but attract hefty transaction fees.

Tipping

Tipping of around 10 – 15% is customary in Uganda for good service. Tips are usually given in Uganda Shillings or US Dollars. If you are doing Gorilla Trekking Uganda, tipping is at your discretion – your porter (if you choose to take one) should usually receive the highest tip, with a second tip distributed between your guides, trackers, and security personnel.

For in-depth tipping guidelines, enquire with one of our Africa Safari Experts – they’d be happy to share their knowledge with you.

Climate

Average year-round temperatures: 14°C to 27°C

Rainy seasons: March to May and September to December

Refer to Best Time To Visit Uganda for climate charts and advice on the best times of year for gorilla trekking.

What To Pack

During the day, temperatures in Uganda are generally warm so pack plenty of lightweight clothing. If you are going gorilla trekking, pack long trousers and long-sleeved tops, long socks to wear over your trousers as protection against ants, a pair of light gloves to protect against nettles, a hat, and a raincoat.

A pair of sturdy, comfortable hiking boots are most important – try to break these in before your trip rather than wearing their brand new as you’re likely to get blisters.

The mountains tend to be cold and damp so pack according to the altitude – a change of clothes and a warm fleece in your day pack, along with sunscreen and insect repellent are advised.

Flights & Getting Around

Entebbe International Airport: located 35km from Kampala, Entebbe is Uganda’s international gateway. Visitors usually arrive via Nairobi.

Flying by private charter aircraft is very expensive in Uganda – most travellers use road transfers with minibuses or, preferably, 4X4 vehicles.

Despite Uganda’s small size, infrastructure is limited and roads are often in poor condition; expect long days in vehicles when driving between destinations, especially in the rainy season. Game drives in the national parks are generally conducted in open-sided 4X4s.

Visa & Passport Requirements

All visitors to Uganda require a visa and every visitor’s passport must be valid for at least six months from their departure date. Uganda Visa can be obtained at all major borders as well as at the international airport at Entebbe. Single and double-entry visas are valid for up to three months at a cost of around US $30 and extensions are available at the immigration office in Kampala.

Travel

When entering or departing Uganda, you must present evidence of a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test taken within 120 hrs. of arrival/departure and from an accredited laboratory.

A nationwide, daily curfew from 7 pm to 5.30 am is in place. Essential services including food markets, banks, and private security remain open. If your flight departs during curfew hours you’ll be allowed to travel to the airport if you present a valid ticket.

It’s mandatory for everyone aged six and over to wear an approved face mask in public. If you display COVID-19 symptoms, you’ll be placed in a government isolation centre until you test negative for COVID-19. Monitor the Ugandan Ministry of Health and the media for the latest developments and follow the advice of local officials.

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter and leave Uganda.

It may be difficult to access money. Traveller’s cheques, credit cards, and debit cards aren’t widely accepted.

At Saso Uganda Safaris, we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate Uganda Travel Advice section dedicated to Uganda.

Learn about the history and culture of Uganda, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Uganda’s nature and wildlife, weather, and geography, along with ‘Country Quickfacts’ compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you’re properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable Uganda Travel. The only way you could learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Uganda for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Uganda Safari Tours today!