Travel Guide to Uganda: Travel Guide Uganda

Planning a trip to the Pearl of Africa? A travel guide to Uganda is the ultimate compass to navigate your way into this beautifully endowed country found in East Africa and the world.

A Uganda travel guide is a map containing information about the various tourist sites, hotels, restaurants, currencies, cultures, languages, transportation, and activities that may be of interest to a visitor.

Known as the “Pearl of Africa” is a landlocked country located in East Africa, with a total area of approximately 241,038 square kilometers (93,065 square miles) almost similar to the US state of Oregon.

The country is bordered by other African countries in the world, South Sudan to the north, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, Rwanda to the southwest, Tanzania to the south, and Kenya to the east.

The Pearl of Africa is endowed with vast natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality portrayed through the equatorial snow-capped peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains to the lush Ugandan forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to the breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant communities that can be enjoyed by all travelers in the world.

Though considered a small nation, it is packed with several tourist places to visit (parks, reserves) and tourist attractions (waterfalls, Ugandan forests), among other things worth seeing while on holiday in the nation. It houses a diverse range of wildlife species in the world (endangered mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, rare golden monkeys, leopards, lions, elephants, and hippos) and bird species (Shoebill Stork, Grey Crowned Crane, Marabou Storks), etc.

Therefore, this detailed Uganda travel guide containing country information will guide visitors on a step-by-step journey through taking an African safari trip to the nation, from the unique attractions to activities to planning, to preparation, to navigating the country’s diverse regions and making the most of your time while on holidays in the nation.

Places To Visit in Uganda

The Pearl of Africa is blessed with numerous unique places to visit ranging from parks to cities among others in the world as listed below;

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: This Park which is a natural habitat for over 450 mountain gorillas, offering gorilla trekking opportunities is one of the popular places to explore while in the nation.
• Murchison Falls National Park: Endowed with the enormous Murchison Falls, and breathtaking Nile River this national park is a perfect place to explore by tourists seeking an opportunity to spot wildlife like giraffes and elephants among other wildlife species.
• Queen Elizabeth National Park: This national park, located in southwestern Uganda, is famous for its diverse wildlife, including lions, leopards, chimpanzees, and elephants. It is one of the major places to visit while in Uganda.
• Jinja City: This colonial city situated at the beginning of the Nile River offers the vast majority of opportunities for visitors to partake in adventurous tourist activities such as whitewater rafting, mountain biking, quad-biking, kayaking, etc.
• Kampala City: The capital city of the nation, Kampala, is a hub of numerous tourist activities endowed with beautiful temples, vibrant markets, cathedrals, art galleries, and museums, including the popular Uganda National Museum.
• Lake Bunyonyi: This beautiful lake in southwestern Uganda is blessed with crystal-clear waters and is a perfect place to explore to enjoy water sports, birdwatching, and other adventurous activities while in the nation.
• Kidepo Valley National Park: Located in the northeastern region of Uganda, near the border of South Sudan and Kenya in rugged remote areas, this park offers breathtaking scenery and wildlife sightings for animals like leopards, giraffes, tree-climbing lions, elephants, etc.
• Lake Mburo National Park: Situated in western Uganda, is one of the best places to visit while in the pearl of Africa to see wildlife sightings like zebras, giraffes, and other animals in this picturesque park.
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: This conservation area in southwestern Uganda is another of the magnificent places to visit while in the pearl of Africa provides visitors with a chance to trek endangered mountain gorillas.
• Kibale National Park: Situated in southwestern Uganda this park is one of the nation’s treasure troves worth a visit. Visitors interested in chimpanzee trekking among other tourist activities can explore this park and enjoy it.
• Rwenzori Mountains: Located in southwestern Uganda, along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo the highest peak named Margherita Peak (stands at an elevation of 5,109 meters /16,763 feet above sea level) blessed with picturesque scenery and glacial lakes is one of the places visitors can explore while in the pearl of Africa.

Tourist Attractions in Uganda

The nation is blessed with numerous mind-blowing tourist attractions that visitors can explore when visiting Uganda. Some of these include;

1. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: This dense impenetrable forest is a natural habitat for endangered mountain gorillas. Visitors can engage in a gorilla trekking tour to experience firsthand the natural beauty embedded in Bwindi Forest.
2. Endangered Mountain Gorillas: These are some of the major highlights and attractions that attract many visitors to come to see them in their natural habitats found in places like Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
3. Murchison Falls: These falls situated in the northwestern region of Uganda, are a must-visit for visitors traveling to the nation. Visitors can take a boat cruise on the Victoria Nile to witness the enormous waters bursting through a narrow gorge.
4. Sipi Falls: These stunning waterfalls located in Mount Elgon Park, Uganda are one of the tourist attractions, visitors in the nation can tour, take a boat cruise, take a nature walk, do birdwatching activities, etc.
5. Lake Victoria:  This is one of Africa’s largest freshwater lakes and it boasts stunning natural beauty, with picturesque mountain views, islands, beaches, and diverse bird and animal species.
6. Ssese Islands: These are groups of 84 islands found on Lake Victoria with each bearing a unique charm, filled with exotic flora and fauna, white-sand beaches providing avenues for horseback riding, relaxation, windsurfing, etc.
7. Kasubi Tombs: This historic site found in Kampala is famously known for being a burial place of four former Buganda kings and other royal family members and a tour of these tombs gives visitors a view of the traditional artifacts of the Buganda Kingdom.
8. Ndere Cultural Centre: This is the perfect spot for visitors to enjoy traditional and cultural performances through traditional dance and music, performed by the Ndere Troupe.
9. Owino Market: This is one of the largest markets in the nation, hosting a vast range of produce, clothing, electronics, and traditional crafts, as well as vibrant vendors and customers. Visitors can buy souvenirs among other things while visiting Uganda.

Unique Things to Do in Uganda

When in the nation, there are various unique things to do by visitors that range from challenging to adventure-filled activities that suit all preferences. And some of these include;

a)     Game Drives Through Parks

Visitors traveling to Uganda can partake in drives (day or night game drives) to explore parks and the nation game reserves often in 4×4 tourist vehicles to spot several animals like monkeys, tree-climbing lions, elephants, giraffes, etc.

Some of the famous places offering animal drives are Ishasha sector, Murchison Falls National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Kidepo Valley Park, etc.

b)    Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda involves taking a trek across the dense rainforests and bamboo forests to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitats often eating or basking at water sources. Visitors ought to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park to engage in gorilla trekking activities and observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

It’s advisable to book gorilla trekking permits in advance for a memorable experience while on Uganda gorilla trekking tours.

c)     Wildlife Viewing

To engage in a wildlife viewing venture while in the nation, visitors need to explore Uganda’s national parks, such as Ishasha sector, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley Park among others, to spot lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos and more.

It’s important to book a wildlife viewing safari with a licensed tour operator in advance for a memorable experience while on the Visit Uganda expedition.

d)    Chimpanzee Tracking

This tourist activity involves following experienced Uganda travel guides to find and observe chimpanzees in their natural habitats. Visitors ought to visit national parks like Kibale National Park, Budongo Forest Reserve, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to engage in chimpanzee trekking activities.

Visitors are advised to book gorilla tracking permits through licensed Uganda tour operators!

e)     Birdwatching

The nation is often referred to as a bird watchers paradise considering the presence of over 1,000 species often spotted including endemic and rare bird species such as Shoebill Stork, herons, African eagles, and African Green Broadbill etc.

Birding enthusiasts interested in this tourist activity only need to book a safari trip to Murchison Falls National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Semuliki National Park, Kibale National Park, Lake Mburo Park, Mount Elgon National Park, and Mabira Forest.

In need of an African travel to the nation for bird watching, contact Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd today for a customized bird-watching safari package.

f)      Boat Safaris and Cruises

Visitors can take relaxing boat cruises on water sources such as Lake Victoria, Victoria Nile, Lake Bunyonyi, Semuliki River, Lake Albert, Kazinga Channel, Sipi River Lake Mburo, and the Nile River where they can also view wildlife species like hippos, monkeys, zebras, impalas, crocodiles, aquatic birds, waterfalls, stunning landscapes, and scenery.

The price of boat cruises in Uganda varies from $50 to $200 per person depending on location, safari packages, season, etc.

g)     Cultural Visits in Uganda

Cultural visits in Uganda are often done at museums (the Uganda Museum, Ndere Cultural Centre, and Kabale Museum), historical sites (Kasubi Tombs, Mparo Royal Tombs), market visits (Owino market), by attending cultural festivals (the Kampala Festival, Bayimba International Festival), traditional villages visits (Batwa villages), tasting local cuisines and delicacies, etc. All of which portray the rich Ugandan culture.

To have a memorable cultural tour in the nation, book your safari vacation with us at Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd.

h)    Hiking and Nature Walks

Visitors traveling to Uganda can partake in challenging hikes and nature walks through the dense forests on the carefully laid out hike trails to view the beautiful landscapes, mountains, and scenery on foot.

Some of the places that provide visitors with challenging and beautiful hike trails are Murchison Falls National Park, Mountain Rwenzori, Mount Elgon, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale National Park, Budongo Forest Reserve, Kidepo National Park, etc.

It’s worth noting that having a park ranger or tour guide before embarking on a mountain or forest hike is highly recommended!

I)       Photography in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Photography activities are another of the interesting activities visitors engage in while in the nation to capture unique things like wildlife species (lions, leopards, elephants, endangered mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, buffalos), lush forests (rain forests, montane forests, bamboo forests), glaciers from equatorial snow-capped peaks, bird species (Egrets, marabou stalks, eagles), stunning waterfalls, hidden caves, hot springs, vibrant markets etc.

Some of the places where photography lovers can capture the most interesting scenes are Murchison Falls National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Rwenzori Mountains, Lake Bunyonyi, Kibale National Park, Sipi Falls, Mount Elgon National Park, Kampala City, Jinja city, Kasubi tombs, Uganda National Museum, etc.

j)      Fishing at the Nile River

Visitors on a visit Uganda safari can also try their hand at fishing activities and try to catch fish in the nation’s lakes and rivers while on safari holidays in Uganda.

Some of the fish species often caught are Nile perch, tilapia, and mudfish using the commonly known fishing methods which are bottom fishing, trolling, casting, fly-fishing, etc.

Some of the other famous fishing spots include Lake Victoria, Lake Albert, Lake Edward, Lake Mburo, Lake George, Victoria Nile, and other numerous rivers.

For a memorable fishing experience, hiring a fishing tour guide, having fishing permits, and ensuring you wear life jackets for safety on waterbodies are necessary.

k)    Horseback Safaris

Horseback safaris in Uganda are done in several national parks such as Queen Elizabeth Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Lake Mburo Park. These have experienced horse-riding guides and well-trained horses that ensure safe and enjoyable experiences.

While on a horseback safari in Uganda, visitors get to explore the diverse wildlife species such as lions, zebras, elephants, and giraffes in their natural habitats.

l)       Adventure Sports in Kidepo Valley National Park

While in the nation, visitors can engage in several adventure sports such as kayaking, Quad biking, cycling, mountain biking, white-water rafting, or bungee jumping on the Nile River for an adrenaline rush.

These tourist activities are offered in several tourist places in the nation such as Jinja City, Kampala City, Rwenzori Mountains, Lake Victoria, Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Lake Mburo Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, etc.

Contact Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd today for safari packages that include adventure sports for an ultimate adventure-filled safari.

Best Time to Visit Uganda

Traveling to Uganda can be done all year round but the best time to visit Uganda is during the dry season which is between June to August and December to February when the weather is perfect for most of the outdoor tourist activities like gorilla trekking, gorilla tracking, chimpanzee tracking, and wildlife viewing, etc.

However, if interested in activities like watching migratory birds and enjoying lush landscapes the wettest months or rainy season which runs from September to November is ideal.

Please note the dry season is a peak season and prices are quite high while the wet season is less expensive.

How To Travel to Uganda?

Travelling to the pearl of Africa is quite easy as long as one takes the necessary steps and follows given guidelines.

1. Passport, it is important to have a passport that is still valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay to avoid inconveniences at the airport.
2. Visa, Visitors need to have Ugandan visas that permit them to stay in the country and should be valid for the time intended to stay.
3. This can be obtained on arrival or through a Uganda visa application online through the Uganda Electronic Visa/Permit System.
4. Transportation, Travelers are often encouraged to make arrangements for their transport means from the airport especially if they are not using a tour company, that is to say, they keep some money for a minibus taxis, bus, or shuttle well-versed in roads leading to their destination to avoid any mobility issues.
5. Ultimately, they can use a licensed tour operator to plan for their airport transfers, taxis, and safe driving.
6. Flight, visitors can use any airline in their respective countries to book flights that fly into the country’s airport, Entebbe International Airport (EBB).
7. Itinerary when traveling to the nation it’s advisable to know in advance what one wants to do while in Uganda and as such research (one can read a book by Winston Churchill “My African Journey” 1908 for better insights), plan, and book the necessary safari packages, accommodations, activities, tours, etc.

Please note that booking one’s itinerary through a Uganda-licensed tour operator is strongly recommended.

6. Packing, Visitors are strongly advised to pack relevant belongings i.e. clothing (fit for the tropical climate in Uganda), insect repellent, and essential medications (that is necessary vaccinations should be taken before traveling) among other things that they may need on this trip in advance.

Please note that using licensed Uganda tour operators is often very helpful and will save a visitor so much hustle when traveling to Uganda.

How Much Does It Cost to Travel to Uganda?

The cost of traveling to Uganda varies depending on one’s intentions to travel, travel style or package, and preferences. Costs are often incurred while catering for accommodation, meals, local transportation, wildlife safari sightings, etc.

On accommodation and lodging, depending on the choice of lodging whether budget-range, midrange, or luxury lodging options, the costs often range from $20 per night to approximately $100 per night.

About Local Food and eateries, one can spend approximately $4 per meal to $100 per meal depending on the choices preferred and taken i.e. fast and street foods, budget, midrange or luxury restaurant foods, or fine dining.

Additionally, visitors can spend approximately $ 8 to $20 per day on local transportation depending on the options chosen whether public transportation, taxis, private drivers, car rentals, etc.

To participate in adventurous activities in some tourist places such as museums, national parks, and forest reserves, one may spend around $20 to $1000 depending on the activities chosen, and time to be spent among other additions such as entrance fees, permit fees, entertainment, etc.

Therefore, when it comes to costs, a trip to Uganda can cost around $105 per day, with a one-week trip costing around $1,470 depending on what they intend to participate in while on a visit Uganda safari.

Where To Stay in Uganda

Uganda offers a vast range of accommodation and lodging options for all travelers that suit various budgets (budget-range, mid-range, and luxury) and preferences.  These popular lodging options include;

1.    Safari Lodges in Uganda

The luxurious accommodation and lodging options for travelers traveling to Uganda, offering a wide range of luxurious amenities and services are;

• Mweya Safari Lodge (has a range of luxurious rooms, cottages, and tents to suit different tastes and budgets with great views of the Kazinga Channel and Lake Edward)
• Elephant Plains Lodge Uganda (a luxurious safari lodge located in Elizabeth National Park, with elegant and spacious rooms, and private terraces offering views of the nearby crater lake near Lake George)
• Lemala Wildwaters Lodge (located on a private Kalangala Island in the middle of the mighty River Nile with luxury suites, each with a private balcony and stunning views of the river Nile suitable and convenient for those looking to partake in adventure sports and relax)
• Buhoma Lodge (located in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers comfortable and spacious luxury cottages and is a great base for Uganda gorilla trekking safaris)
• Chobe Safari Lodge (situated in the Murchison Falls National Park overlooking Chobe River offers luxurious lodging options and is a perfect starting point for those interested in game drives, and boat cruises)
• Paraa Safari Lodge (One of the largest safari lodges in Uganda found in Murchison Falls National Park that has Private balconies with Nile River views, swimming pools among other amenities, and a good base for boat cruises to Murchison Falls)
• Mahogany Springs Lodge (found just 1km from the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, this luxury safari lodge offers comfortable and spacious cottages and is a good base for gorilla trekking while on a Uganda gorilla tour)
• Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge (located in the southern region of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, this Carbon Neutral Certified property was built using local materials and operates on solar and electric generator power)
• Apoka Safari Lodge (found in Kidepo Valley National Park in northeastern Uganda and offers super-spacious chalets, is a good starting point for exploring the Park highlights while on Uganda tours)

2.    Hotels in Kampala

The capital city of Kampala houses several spacious Hotels where visitors can stay when traveling Uganda such as;

• Latitude 0 Degrees Hotel (located on a hilltop with great views, has well-appointed rooms, a pool, relaxing areas, and a games room)
• Fairway Boutique Hotel (found near the Uganda Golf Club, this hotel has friendly staff, has well-organized rooms)
• Hotel Golden Tulip Canaan Kampala (this luxurious 4-star hotel has convenient rooms with a spa center, pool, gym, and golf course view)
• Speke Resort Munyonyo (this resort that’s part of the Speke group of hotels has great views of Lake Victoria with an Olympic-sized outdoor pool, spa (calabash), gym, and bar)
• Four Points by Sheraton Kampala (the hotel has great restaurant service serving local and international cuisine and offers a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi and a rooftop heated pool, fully stocked Kololo Bar & Lounge)
• Kampala Serena Hotel (this hotel has various spacious rooms, a beautiful Pearl of Africa restaurant, the Explorer Italian bistro, the Sesse Patisserie, the Bambara Lounge, the Mist Bar, the Pool Bar, and excellent room service)

There are several other luxurious hotels in Kampala such as Protea Hotel Kampala, Hilton Garden Inn, etc., and staying at these will guarantee the visitor a memorable experience in Uganda. Book your lodging option with Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd today.

3.    Best Guest houses in Kampala Uganda

Visitors who choose to stay at guest houses in Kampala and its surrounding areas can choose from several cozy options such as Guesthouse Kampala, The Hub, Pearl Suites Bukoto, Hotel 256 Kampala -Kigo, Savanna Suites in Kampala, Emmaus Guest House Kampala, Okla guesthouse, the forest house, Namirembe Guest House all of which offer cozy rooms, amenities and budget-friendly lodging options.

4.    Camping Sites in Uganda

Visitors seeking a more adventure-filled stay while in Uganda on a trip or African safari can choose to stay in camps or camping sites.

Some of the best places to go camping in Uganda include Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kidepo National Park, Jinja, Kabale, Fort Portal, Mbarara, Kasese, Sipi Falls, etc.

Some of the renowned campsites are Lake Mburo Campsite, Red Chilli Rest Camp, Kazinga Channel Campsite, Elizabeth N. Park Campsite, Lake Bunyonyi Campsite, Mburo Campsite (Lake Mburo National Park), Rwenzori Mountaineering Services Campsite (Rwenzori Mountains) all of which offer a chance to be adventurous and also connect with the natural beauty of the pearl of Africa.

It’s important for visitors coming to Uganda to note that lodging and accommodation options ought to be booked in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons to avoid disappointments.

Additional Information

When traveling to Uganda, it’s always important to understand some of the most important facts and pieces of information for easy navigation in the Pearl of Africa Uganda. These are as follows;

Uganda Language

There are two official languages in Uganda which are English and Swahili but there exist several other languages used by the people such as Bantu languages (Luganda), Nilotic languages, etc.

It’s important to learn some Luganda phrases for easy communication while in some areas such as local markets, tourist places, etc.

Uganda Currency

The official currency of Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). It is crucial to carry some local Ugandan currency (Ugandan shilling) for small purchases or bills and preferably a debit or credit card for bigger purchases in hotels and restaurants as they accept Mastercard or American Express.

Most cities and large towns have MasterCard and Visa-enabled ATMs where one can withdraw from money though it’s important to exchange monies at forex bureaus or banks for good rates.

The current exchange rate of 1 USD ranges from 3,500 – 4,000 UGX and this money can be cashed out in Banknotes (1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 UGX) or Coins (50, 100, 200, 500 UGX)

Please note that USD, British pounds and other major currencies are widely accepted in tourist areas and hotels and if in need of currency exchange services, authorized and licensed currency dealers are advisable.

Responsible Tourism

Responsible tourism is a considerate and sustainable tourism approach used when traveling that prioritizes the well-being of local villages or communities, environments, and cultures.

It requires being aware of the potential impacts of one’s visit and taking appropriate steps to mitigate any negative effects while ensuring a positive and memorable experience for both visitors and hosts.

These are some of the ways visitors and travelers can practice responsible tourism while in Uganda:

• Through being respectful of the local culture and norms of the Ugandans. This can be achieved by visitors after learning about local customs, traditions, and ways of life and emulating them for example dressing decently, removing shoes when entering cultural sites, etc.
• Follow tourism guidelines and respect wildlife rules and regulations issued while at animal natural habitats, such as keeping safe distances from wildlife, desisting from touching or feeding animals, and supporting conservation efforts.
• Be a respectful visitor in places you go to and follow rules and regulations in those places such as security checks, non-litter policies, and non-smoking policies among others to avoid clashing with service providers and breaking Ugandan laws.
• Endeavor to support local businesses that have fair employee systems such as local accommodations, local restaurants, tour operators, etc. through buying from them as this contributes to the local economic growth.

Through responsible tourism practices, you have the power to make meaningful differences in the places you explore while on a visit Uganda tour.

Tipping Etiquette in Uganda

Tipping service people in Uganda is not mandatory. Still, if done, it could do wonders for you as Ugandans appreciate people who tip them after service delivery.

Some of the service persons often tipped may include;

• Safari guides (these may be given a tip of $10-20 per person per day for resourceful guidance)
• Tour guides (tips given to these guides range between $5-10 per person per day for good service rendered)
• Restaurants and bars (these often charge a tip of approximately 5-10% of the total bill)
• Drivers (if desired, one can tip them about $5-10 per day for safe and good service rendered)
• Porters (these often help tourists carry their backpacks while on hikes and can be given a tip of $1-2 per bag for courteous service)
• Lodge staff (for fast service delivery one can tip them around $5-10 per person per day)
• Gorilla trekking (tourists intending to go for gorilla trekking often tip $10-20 per person per day for guides and porters)

Some of the guidelines for tipping in Uganda are;

1. Tipping in local Ugandan currency (ugx) or US dollars is very important, as credit cards may not be accepted in most places.
2. This etiquette portrays appreciation for good service given and moral boosts the service providers but it should only be done at the will and comfort of the travelers.
3. However, it’s important to always first confirm if tipping services are already included on bills before tipping.
4. It is also important to give a tip to the service persons for their good service in person to ensure that they receive the tip in full.
5. In case one does not intend to tip it’s important to be respectful and kind to the service providers.

Please be aware this should only be done at the financial comfort and willingness of travelers in the pearl of Africa.

Is It Safe to Travel to Uganda?

The pearl of Africa is one of the safest countries in East Africa and Africa at Large with most of the country, tourist spots and places, attractions, and public spaces being guarded and protected by the UPDF and Uganda Police among other security operatives despite the alleged terrorist attacks.

However, it’s important to note that just like any other country, there may be instances where one may encounter petty thieves, pickpocketers, and scammers, especially in crowded places. Therefore, it’s important to note these travel tips;

1. Avoid laxity while in these crowded places and be mindful of one’s belongings
2. Cooperate with security operatives and respect the Ugandan law and order to avoid life imprisonment
3. Use a licensed Uganda tour company, this makes it easy to be updated about the local guidelines and laws

Overall, the pearl of Africa is a very safe country to travel to in Africa. Book your Uganda safari with us Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd for a memorable and safe African safari tour.

Insurance

When traveling to Uganda it’s quite important or necessary to at least have some insurance packages such as travel insurance, health insurance, etc. These cover the following;

• Travel Insurance often covers unexpected trip cancellations, delays, or interruptions.
• Health Insurance often caters for medical expenses that may be incurred while traveling.

When selecting an insurance package for your trip to Uganda, carefully consider, Customer support availability while on an African safari, Policy coverage and exclusions, Premium costs, Deductible amounts, claim process and reputation, etc.

For more custom-tailored packages, it’s best to consult a Uganda tour operator for travel tips and advice on which insurance package may be suitable for your Uganda tour.

Time in Uganda

The pearl of Africa as a country is in the East African Time Zone (EAT), which is UTC+3 and the time remains consistent all year round.

This time zone is 3 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).

If planning to travel to Pearl of Africa, it is important to coordinate with Uganda tour operators well conversant about the time differences and adjust one’s clock accordingly.

Food In Uganda, Africa

When planning for a trip to Uganda, visitors ought to understand some of the popular foods mostly served in hotels, restaurants, and bars and these may include;

1. Matooke (this is a traditional delicacy made from raw green bananas served when steamed or boiled, with any sauce, vegetables, meat, beans, etc.)
2. Ugali (also known as posho made from cornmeal or cassava flour, often served with stews or sauces)
3. Chapati (this is a very famous flatbread, often served with eggs, vegetables, meat, or beans)
4. Rolex (this is a famous street food, similar to a burrito, made with a chapati wrapper and filled with eggs, vegetables, and sometimes meat depending on location)
5. Katogo (this is a nice breakfast dish made with steamed bananas, offal, beans, meat, or groundnuts)
6. Muchomo (a term given to Roasted delicacies such as roasted maize, cassava, roasted chicken, roasted beef, or roasted sweet potatoes, often served as a snack.
7. Fruits (blessed with several natural fruits such as bananas, Mangoes, Pineapples, pomegranates, Watermelons, Passion fruits, etc.)

Ugandan cuisines feature several international dishes (Indian food), and traditional dishes, influenced by the country’s cultural heritage, locations, and way of life.

Visitors are however advised to avoid drinking tap water while in the pearl of Africa but rather purchase and consume bottled mineral water.

However, travelers need to communicate with the service providers earlier in case they are allergic to some foods and also carry some doctor-recommended medicines for allergies and health complications such as painkillers, antacids, and antidiarrheal tabs when traveling.

Power And Internet in Uganda

On arrival in the nation is highly advisable to buy a local SIM for easy communication and internet access. Mtn Uganda has been ranked top for having the top internet speed, among other internet providers like Airtel Uganda, K2, Roke Telcom, Liquid Telecom, etc. Travelers can choose from any of these telecom and service providers.

Power and electricity are widely distributed in the country to the smallest villages, but it’s important to be prepared for occasional outages, especially during heavy rains.

Uganda’s electrical outlets use Type G plugs, which are similar to those found in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Singapore, Malaysia, Malta, Bahrain, and Sri Lanka. This means that if your device is compatible with the plug type in any of these countries, it will also work in this nation.

Visitors can be assured of having their devices charged and operational while in this nation.

Uganda Safari What to Wear

You are advised to carry a comfortable travel bag with Lightweight and breathable clothing preferably cotton or linen that covers the shoulders and knees or legs, these may be:

1. Jeans; These are important in covering the knees and legs and hence act as protective clothing from mosquito and insect bites as well as unnecessary cuts.
2. Casual Pants; Casual pants also act as protective clothing from mosquito and insect bites as they cover the knees and legs.
3. Scarf or Shawl; To cover up, when necessary, especially when the weather changes during a safari trip.
4. Light Jacket; To cover up, when necessary, especially when the weather changes enroute an African safari trip.
5. Wide-Brimmed Hat; This helps to protect one from the scorching sun.
6. Sunglasses; To protect yourself from the strong sun rays.

Please note that carrying and wearing colorful clothing isn’t advisable when going near wildlife species!

What to Pack for a Uganda Safari – Essentials to Carry

When packing for a summer trip to the Pearl of Africa, it is important to have these essentials as well.

1. Documents; One needs to have a passport, flight tickets, and Uganda visas which can be obtained from an embassy for easy entry into the country.
2. Money; It is crucial to carry some local currency (Ugandan currency) for small purchases and preferably a debit or credit card for bigger purchases.
3. Toiletries; One can pack toiletries like a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, shampoo, mosquito and insect repellent, hand sanitizer, wipes, sunscreen [SPF 15 or greater] with UVA and UVB protection to protect yourself from the strong sun.
4. Electronics; Travelers are strongly advised to carry a smartphone, a camera to capture memories, a portable charger, a torch, a map app on a phone or GPS device, and some headphones.
5. Footwear; Sneakers are highly recommended especially if you intend to trek and tour around, comfortable flats for wildlife tours, and some stockings as well for chilly evenings.
6. Medication; You are encouraged to carry some painkillers, antacids, and antidiarrheal tabs for those with allergies and health complications, they can they’re doctor-recommended medicines.

All these can be additionally used by visitors in case of any additional transfers and cross-overs to other African countries like Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, or the democratic republic of Congo.

FAQ [Frequently Asked Questions]

1. Is it safe to travel to Uganda right now?

The pearl of Africa is one of the safest countries to travel to right now in the entire world, with the Uganda Peoples Defense Forces (UPDF) and other security operatives protecting most of the tourist places in the country and dedicated to protecting the citizens and visitors in the country.

2. How do I prepare for a trip to Uganda?

Preparing for a safari holiday in Uganda often involves double-checking the travel requirements needed to travel to Uganda such as getting a travel visa, choosing safari packages, booking flights, booking activities, booking lodging facilities, buying travel insurance, packing necessities, etc.

3. What is the best month to visit Uganda?

Uganda can be visited all year round with the best months to visit Uganda being the drier months which run between June to August and December to February providing perfect weather for most of the outdoor tourist activities like gorilla trekking, gorilla tracking, hiking, etc.

4. Can US citizens travel to Uganda without visa?

U.S. citizens are required to obtain visas before entering Uganda and it should be valid for the time intended to stay. Visas can be obtained on arrival or through a Uganda visa application online through the Uganda Electronic Visa/Permit System.

5. How many days should I spend in Uganda?

The ideal duration to spend while on a trip to the Pearl of Africa could be around one week, depending on one’s preferences, safari packages, budget, and intention for the travel. This duration can allow one to visit several tourist places, and attractions and see many animal and bird sightings.

With this Uganda travel guide containing country information, one can embark on an unforgettable journey to the pearl of Africa. Book your next trip with Prime Safaris & Tours Ltd and have a memorable experience!