Do I need a visa to enter Uganda?
For most nationalities, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and Ireland, 90 – day tourist visas can be purchased on arrival at Entebbe International Airport for 50 US Dollars or at the Ugandan Embassy in your home country before departure. As visa regulations change frequently, you are advised to check with Ugandan Embassy in your country prior to departure.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months following the date of entry.
Is Uganda safe for tourists?
Uganda is generally considered to be a safe, stable country with low crime rates. However, the Sudan border regions and Karamoja in the North should be avoided (with the exception of Kidepo Valley National Park).
What is the currency and where do I exchange cash?
Ugandan Shilling is the local currency and this cannot be purchased outside the country.
GB Pounds, US Dollars and Euros are accepted by many large hotels. Cash can be exchanged at Banks and forex bureaus; also you can use Visa debit and credit cards on ATMs available in major towns.
Note: all US Dollars must be printed post-2003, and should not be damaged in anyway.
Can I use Credit or Debit card?
Visa cards are more widely accepted in city hotels and shopping malls followed by MasterCard. Other cards may not be accepted. It is important to alert your bank before using your card abroad as it may be blocked.
What should I take with me?
You need to carry the following items with you as conditions in Africa may be different from your home country.Â
General
- ·       Sun cream- Uganda is along the equator, and temperatures can soar above 30°C.
- ·       Day pack.
- ·       Insect repellent.
- ·       Flashlight.
- ·       Spare or rechargeable batteries, as these are difficult to find once you are in the park.
- ·       Waterproof bags to protect equipment.
- ·       Electric plug adopters for 240 volts. UK –style square pin plugs are usable.
- ·       Antiseptic hand wash
- ·       An International driving license if you intend to hire a vehicle
Clothing
- ·       Walking boots/shoes
- ·       Sun hat/cap
- ·       Sandals/light shoes
- ·       Water proof jacket
- ·       Light clothing
- ·       Although Uganda is a hot country, some areas can cold at night, so please carry warm clothing including thermal layers and fleece.
Do I need any specialist Equipment?
You will need Equipment depending on your special interests. For instance, if you are interested in bird watching, photography and wildlife, we recommend that you take water/dustproof binocular, high resolution camera with several memory cards, lens cloth to remove dust, spare batteries and plug adaptor.
When is the best time to travel?
Uganda enjoys a tropical climate, though the heat is tempered by altitude as much of the country is more than 1000m above sea level.
Rainy seasons are from December to February and mid-June to mid-August.
Average temperatures range from about 16°C (61°F) in the South Western highlands, to 25°C (77°F) in the North West; but in the North East, temperatures can exceed 30°C (86°F).
What Vaccinations do I need?
A yellow fever vaccine is essential –take your certificate with you.
Hepatitis A and B, Meningitis, Polio, Tetanus and Typhoid vaccinations are also recommended.
It is important to visit your GP or Surgery long in advance before departure date as some of injections take several days to be effective.
Should I take any other medications?
Anti-malaria tablets are highly recommended. Take all prescribed medication with as they may not be readily available in Uganda.
Remember to purchase travel insurance before travelling, including medical evacuation in case of emergency.
What other health risks are there?
Even though you are taking anti-malaria tablets, you should still wear insect repellent, long sleeved shirts, long trousers, and closed shoes. This will help to protect you from mosquitos and other insect bites.
All accommodation in high-risk areas will have mosquito nets, so be sure to use them.
It is not recommendable to swim in Uganda’s because there is a high risk of bilharzia.
Tap water is not suitable for drinking, but bottled water is readily available throughout the country.
What language is commonly used in Uganda?
English is the official national language and commonly used across the country. In spite of having about 50 indigenous languages, Swahili and Luganda are widely spoken.
Is there Electricity in the whole country?
Few areas outside the towns and cities have electricity, but lodges in remote areas usually have solar or generators. This means that power may cut off at certain times of the day.
Can I use the internet while in Uganda?
Major hotels have internet access and internet cafes are common in Kampala city and towns although connection is likely to be slow.
How can I make phone calls in Uganda?
If your cell phone is compatible, you may be able to purchase an inexpensive SIM card, widely available
Is Idi Amin still in alive?
Idi Amin was military dictator and third president of Uganda between 1971 and 1979. He was overthrown and went into exile in Saudi Arabia where he died on 16 August 2003. In 2006, a British drama film ‘Last King of Scotland’ was shot in Uganda based on the events of this brutal dictator.
