Popularly known as the “Pearl of Africa”, Uganda offers a myriad of safari options for visitors of all ages and interests, that’s why this Uganda travel advice is important to consider.
While in Uganda, you can trek the mountain gorillas in their natural habitats or embark on a safari game drive in any of the savannah-dominated national parks and wildlife reserves. You can also enjoy mountain climbing and hiking on the third highest mountain in Africa the Rwenzori Mountains. You may also try gorging on some of the most mouth-watering local dishes at the popular eateries in Kampala City.
Generally, an unforgettable trip or holiday with memories lasting a lifetime are possible when you choose Uganda as your bucket list destination. However, organizing a safari to Uganda calls for proper planning, care and understanding of the key aspects of the country.
To make your safari unforgettable and stress-free, we bring you the important Uganda Travel advice that include how to get around, safety while in Uganda, the right packing list, health and security advice and so much more.
Come up with your ideal itinerary.
Drafting your ideal safari itinerary is the first step to creating the most unforgettable experience in Uganda and if you plan to have a blast, then you will have to consider the following ideas.
You may take on 11 days best of Uganda tour or 14 days Uganda safari tour for the ultimate experience of this country’s greatest highlights. These shall take you from Bwindi Impenetrable to Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth and to the adventure capital – Jinja.
Plan in advance
Uganda might seem small and easy to explore but with inadequate planning, you might end up leaving out the must-visit places and even forget some essential items on your packing list. A local tour operator is handy for ensuring you hit your bucket list experiences, offering assistance in booking your accommodation, transportation with a guide, the different activities and doing overall planning of the itinerary.
Currency on your Uganda travel advice
The local currency is the Uganda Shilling, and the exchange rates always vary, depending on demand and supply. However, other foreign currencies like US Dollars, Pound Sterling and Euros are accepted when making payments at upscale hotels in cities/urban centers, upscale supermarkets and restaurants, then safari lodges within the national parks.
There are a number of places to exchange your foreign currencies that include at the Airports, the numerous Forex Exchange Bureaus, banks and sometimes upmarket hotels that provide this service.
Safety in Uganda
Unlike what you read on blogs and what the international media portrays of Uganda, the country is generally safe and secure for travelers. Crime rates in this beautiful country are pretty low and the commonest crime against travelers is normally theft.
When moving in big cities like Kampala, Mbarara, Mbale, Arua, Gulu and Entebbe, it is always important to be vigilant and take the extreme precaution like not flashing fancy items in public, not walking alone after dark or in lonely hidden places.
Travelers are always advised to always inquire from the hotel staff on the safety of places you wish to visit before you think of going out.
Entry/visa while traveling to Uganda.
You will need a visa when travelling to Uganda unless you are a citizen of countries that are exempted. It is therefore advisable to first check-out the visa requirements for citizens from your country to avoid being taken by surprise.
Languages – part of Uganda Travel Advice
English is the official language in Uganda, although Swahili and Luganda are widely spoken across the country. For other foreign languages like Chinese, French, German and Italian, you might need a translator.
Transportation to and around Uganda
Flights are the main means of transportation into Uganda. However, you will travel by a combination of domestic flights (operated by Aerolink, Bar Aviation, Eagle Air and others), buses, matatus (taxis), cabs or Boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) when getting around the country. Besides, the safest and most stress-free way of exploring the “Pearl of Africa” is by renting a car.
Eat like a local – part of Uganda Travel Advice
Any foodie adventurer will try sampling the fine dining places in Uganda that include the trendy cafes in Kampala city, and restaurants with special international cuisines. Better still you can enjoy the top-notch restaurants that serve typical Ugandan dishes.
This country boasts of a gastronomic experience that will satisfy the needs of every traveler. Do you crave some Chinese food, then try the Spice Junction or Fang Fang restaurants. If you are interested in the Ugandan dishes, then visit 2K or Baguma restaurants where you will try out the famous “Luwombo”.
Go off-the-beaten track.
Unleash your adventurous spirit and take on the less-travelled roads in the country. While everyone is choosing the popular safari destinations, you can choose to explore the lesser-known and hidden gems like Kidepo Valley National Park for the real, raw and authentic African wilderness experience. There is Semliki National Park, and you will be amazed by how diverse and breathtaking these destinations are.
Tipping in Uganda
There is no standard when it comes to tipping, because it is all a personal decision. However, when it comes to tipping waiters/waitresses in restaurants, 10% of your bill is not a bad idea. For the park rangers, you can tip about $5-$10 per person per activity while for the drivers, a tip of $5-$10 per person per day is advised. However, it is not mandatory to tip but just a way of appreciating a good service.
Water and hygiene – part of Uganda Travel Advice
Unlike what you are used to, you can never drink or even use tap water for brushing teeth in Uganda. For this reason, we always provide bottled water as part of your safari package, and you will find them in rooms at the accommodation facility. Prevent any chances of cholera and typhoid by avoiding tap water.
Best time to go to Uganda.
Uganda can be visited all year round, much as the drier months, June to September and December to February are always recommended. This is because they have warmer temperatures and experience little rains hence ideal for most tourist activities especially gorilla and chimp treks, mountain climbing and game drives.