Top Beginners Travel Tips to Uganda Safari Tours and Travel
Travel Tips to Uganda: Travelling in Uganda is a bold and thrilling adventure that breaks the mould of your typical European or American trip. While the mountain gorillas are a must-see, Uganda is teeming with other incredible experiences. Don’t let fears about safety hold you back – with this travel guide, you’ll be fully prepared to embark on a journey you’ll never forget. Despite its imperfections, Uganda’s unique character and charm are sure to leave a lasting impression. As Uganda’s tourism industry flourishes and infrastructure continues to improve, planning your adventure has never been more accessible. Get ready to seize the opportunity to explore Uganda and make memories that will last a lifetime.
1. Do I need vaccinations to travel to Uganda?
If you’re planning on travelling to Uganda, it’s important to know that you will need to get vaccinated beforehand. A Yellow Fever vaccination certification is required to obtain a visa, which is checked at the border. In addition, it is recommended that you also get vaccinations for DTP, hepatitis A, and malaria. Some organizations may suggest getting Typhoid, Cholera, Hepatitis B, and Rabies vaccinations as well.
2. Is it safe to travel to Uganda?
Uganda is generally considered a safe country with low crime rates. However, it’s advised to avoid travelling by road outside major towns at night. If you’re travelling to the South Sudan border region and Karamoja in the very north, it’s recommended to gather the latest travel information beforehand. Although there have been some reported problems with the so-called Kenyan Warriors, it’s important to note that these issues didn’t involve tourists. Visiting Kidepo Valley National Park, which is located close to South Sudan’s border, is perfectly fine. Just remember to use common sense, take care of your belongings, and be aware of your surroundings. By following these precautions, you should be able to travel safely to Uganda.
3. When is the best time to travel to Uganda?
You can travel to Uganda all year round. However, the best time for Uganda safaris is during the dry season, which runs from June to August and from December to February. During the dry season, wildlife is easier to spot. The high season for travel is from June to September, but don’t worry, it never gets too crowded. There is no real peak season for travelling to Uganda, but it’s worth noting that the most challenging months to visit are March, April, and May. During these months, the wet season can make travelling around more complicated, as roads and nature trails can become difficult to navigate. If you’re planning on gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, keep in mind that it can be done year-round. Additionally, places like Lake Bunyonyi, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and Queens National Park can get cold at night, even in the summer, due to their high altitudes.
4. What is the famous quote about Uganda from Winston Churchill?
In 1908, Winston Churchill spoke the following famous quote about Uganda that still resonates in Uganda nowadays: “For magnificence, for variety of form and colour, for the profusion of brilliant life—bird, insect, reptile, beast—on a vast scale, Uganda is truly the Pearl of Africa.” This is why you’ll see “Welcome to the Pearl of Africa” all around Uganda.
5. What currency is used in Uganda?
The local currency in Uganda is the shilling. It is recommended to carry Uganda Shillings (UGX) during your trip. Although some places accept card payments in USD, Euros, or GBP, it is still a cash country. For example, when paying the $700 National Park fee for mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi, you don’t need to bring stacks of Ugandan cash. Small bills like 1,000 UGX are equivalent to just 25 cents, but they are worth big smiles if you give them to locals as a tip. Try to buy local to support the people in Uganda.
6. Where can you exchange money in Uganda?
You can exchange US dollars for Ugandan shillings at forex offices in towns. Exchange offices are also available in bigger towns and tourist attractions in Uganda. The official exchange rate as of January 2024 is around USD 1 = 3,800 UGX. Be aware of the US dollar-UGX exchange rate and avoid being scammed.
7. Are there ATMs & Visa payment options in Uganda?
9. What is the food like in Uganda?
Local food in Uganda is a mix of matoke (cooked bananas), cassava, potatoes, sweet potatoes, beans, tomatoes, cabbage, and ground peanut sauce. It is similar to Indonesian satay sauce. You can find it at local restaurants for around $2. Indian food is also widespread in Uganda, and chapati is common in restaurants and on the streets. Fresh fruits are available everywhere in Uganda, and they are cheap. If you stay in more upscale lodges, meals are usually included and consist of Western-oriented dishes.
10. Can you tip in Uganda?
Tipping is normal in Uganda. Most guides expect a small tip after tours, game drives, or nature walks. To avoid currency exchange issues, it is best to tip in Ugandan shillings. The average monthly income in Uganda varies throughout the country and ranges between 500.000 UGX (USD 140) and 1.000.000 UGX (USD 280). A few dollars in tips can go a long way in showing appreciation to the friendly Ugandan people.
11. How much are the national park fees in Uganda in 2024?
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has set fixed fees for visiting national parks in Uganda. Park entrance fees for tourists are around $40 for the most famous tourist spots in Uganda. Lesser-known parks charge $35, and some small reserves charge only $10 for foreign non-residents (FNR). National park fees in Uganda are charged every 24 hours. You can optimize the park fees when you plan your visit accordingly. There is also an additional national park fee of 30,000 UGX for cars. You only pay this fee once. You can download the latest National Park Fees in Uganda as a PDF from the Uganda Wildlife Authority website by clicking here.
12. Can You Travel to Uganda on a budget?
Travelling to Uganda on a budget is possible! You can explore Bwindi National Park on a guided tour of the gorillas and enjoy safaris in Mburo National Park. However, if you want to save money, consider travelling overland and taking local buses. The more local the bus, the cheaper it is, but keep in mind that it may be less comfortable and take longer.
A 2- to 3-hour bus ride should cost no more than $5. There are buses available in all directions. You can opt for big coaches that are quite comfortable, or you can negotiate to take the front seat in one of the smaller vans, known as Matatus, and pay for two seats. While visiting national parks, try to hitch a ride with other tourists to save on guided safaris. You will still have to pay the national park fees, but it is a great way to save money.
Please note, that if you want to visit the mountain gorillas, you will need to pay for a permit that includes guided trekking. There is no other way to see them.
13. When and where do I buy Chimpanzee and Gorilla trekking permits?
To buy permits for gorilla or chimpanzee trekking in Uganda, it is recommended to book through a tour operator who is a member of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators. The Uganda Wildlife Authority website also offers permits for purchase. It’s important to secure permits in advance to avoid disappointment. The cost of a mountain gorilla trekking permit is $700 for foreign non-residents in 2024.
14. What is the best choice between self-driving and hiring a driver?
When deciding between self-driving and hiring a driver, it’s important to consider the cost. Self-driving can be a cost-effective option for those who carry camping gear and are willing to spend around $80 per day on renting a 4×4. However, hiring a driver can be more convenient, especially when travelling to tourist spots with bad road conditions. Hiring a car with a driver is also more expensive, with a daily rate of approximately $150. For those travelling in a group of up to six people, renting a large 4×4 with a driver is recommended.
15. What places are must-visit and must-do activities in Uganda?
Uganda is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, with gorilla and chimpanzee trekking being major attractions along Africa’s Big Five. Tree-climbing lions can be seen in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Murchison Falls and Sipi Falls are also popular tourist destinations, as is Jinja, where the Nile River’s source can be found, and whitewater rafting is a popular activity. Lake Bunyonyi is a beautiful crater lake with many islands, perfect for kayaking and relaxing in a hammock. Lake Mburo National Park, Mbale, and Kidepo Valley National Park are other popular places to visit in Uganda.
