PRACTICAL TRAVEL GUIDE FOR UGANDA

Visa Requirements, Vaccinations, and Travel Health Tips for Uganda

Visa Requirements

Travelers to Uganda must obtain a visa before arrival or upon entry at designated points such as Entebbe International Airport and land border crossings. Most tourists require a single-entry visa, which costs approximately $50 and is valid for 90 days. The East African Tourist Visa ($100) allows multiple entries into Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda for 90 days. Applications can be made online through the Uganda Electronic Visa/Permit System or at Ugandan embassies abroad. Passport validity of at least six months is required.

Vaccinations and Health Requirements

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry into Uganda. Other recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, meningitis, and rabies (especially for those trekking or visiting remote areas). Malaria is prevalent, so travelers should take antimalarial medication, use insect repellent, and sleep under treated mosquito nets. Drinking only bottled or boiled water is advised to avoid waterborne illnesses. Uganda is generally safe for travel, but comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation is highly recommended.

Packing Essentials for Safaris and Trekking – Uganda Travel Guide

For a successful safari or trekking experience in Uganda, pack the following:

Clothing & Footwear

• Lightweight, neutral-colored clothes (for game drives and safaris)
• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers (for insect protection in forests)
• Sturdy hiking boots (essential for trekking in Bwindi or Rwenzori)
• Rain jacket or poncho (especially for rainforest hikes)
• Warm layers (for chilly mornings and high-altitude areas)

Gear & Accessories

• Binoculars (for birdwatching and wildlife spotting)
• Camera with zoom lens (for capturing Uganda’s wildlife)
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat (for sun protection)
• Headlamp or flashlight (for lodges and night walks)
• Power bank & adapters (Uganda uses Type G sockets)

Medical & Hygiene Items

• Malaria tablets & insect repellent
• Personal medications & first aid kit
• Rehydration salts & anti-diarrhea medication
• Hand sanitizer & biodegradable wet wipes

By packing appropriately, visitors can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable safari or trekking adventure.

Best Times to Visit Uganda and Seasonal Variations

Uganda’s climate is tropical, with two primary seasons:

• Dry Seasons (June – September, December – February)
  • Best time for gorilla trekking, chimp tracking, and wildlife safaris
  • Roads are more accessible, and vegetation is thinner, making wildlife spotting easier
  • Popular months for birdwatching, especially in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth
• Wet Seasons (March – May, October – November)
  • Lush, green landscapes and fewer tourists
  • Increased chances of discounted accommodation rates
  • Best time for photography and migratory birdwatching
  • Roads may be muddy, making travel to remote areas more challenging

The dry season is ideal for safaris, but the wet season offers incredible scenery and fewer crowds.

Five of the Best Safari Circuits in Uganda -Uganda Travel Guide

1. Western Circuit: Gorilla & Primate Adventure

• Destinations: Bwindi Impenetrable, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Mgahinga
• Highlights: Gorilla trekking, chimp tracking, tree-climbing lions, boat cruises

2. Northern Circuit: Murchison Falls & Kidepo Safari

• Destinations: Murchison Falls, Kidepo Valley, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
• Highlights: Big Five safaris, scenic landscapes, Nile River boat safaris

3. Eastern Circuit: Mount Elgon & Sipi Falls

• Destinations: Mount Elgon, Pian Upe, Sipi Falls
• Highlights: Hiking, rock climbing, waterfalls, remote wilderness

4. Birdwatching Circuit

• Destinations: Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, Lake Bunyonyi, Mabamba Swamp
• Highlights: Shoebill stork sightings, over 1,000 bird species, migratory birds

5. Luxury Safari & Lake Retreat

• Destinations: Queen Elizabeth, Lake Victoria, Lake Mburo
• Highlights: Private game drives, lakeside lodges, sunset boat cruises

These circuits cater to a range of safari preferences, from adventure to relaxation.

Uganda’s Top Luxury Lodges and Eco-Friendly Accommodations

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

• Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp – Luxury tented camp in the rainforest
• Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge – Remote, eco-friendly lodge with breathtaking views
• Bwindi Lodge – Eco-conscious, gorilla trekking-focused accommodation

2. Queen Elizabeth National Park

• Ishasha Wilderness Camp – Riverside lodge near tree-climbing lions
• Mweya Safari Lodge – Overlooks the Kazinga Channel with luxury rooms
• Kyambura Gorge Lodge – Luxurious eco-lodge blending conservation with comfort

3. Murchison Falls National Park

• Chobe Safari Lodge – Five-star lodge along the Nile River
• Paraa Safari Lodge – Elegant accommodation with stunning waterfall views
• Baker’s Lodge – Exclusive, intimate safari lodge on the Nile

4. Kibale Forest National Park

• Ndali Lodge – Overlooking crater lakes with exceptional service
• Primate Lodge Kibale – Luxury lodge within the heart of chimpanzee territory
• Kyaninga Lodge – Stunning views of the Rwenzori Mountains, wooden cottages

5. Lake Mburo National Park

• Mihingo Lodge – Hilltop lodge with views over the savannah
• Rwakobo Rock Lodge – Eco-friendly, wildlife-focused lodge
• Mantana Tented Camp – Exclusive tented camp blending comfort and nature

Uganda offers an exceptional mix of luxury and eco-conscious accommodations across its top safari destinations.

Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Tariff From July 1, 2024 To June 30, 2026

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) revised its conservation tariffs effective from July 1, 2024, valid through June 30, 2026.

• Adults:

  • Foreign Non-Residents: $45 per person per day
  • Foreign Residents: $35 per person per day
  • East African Citizens: UGX 25,000 per person per day

• Children (5–15 years):

  • Foreign Non-Residents: $20
  • Foreign Residents: $10
  • East African Citizens: UGX 5,000

Gorilla and Chimpanzee Permits – Uganda Travel Guide

• Gorilla Tracking Permit: $800 per person
• Chimpanzee Tracking Permit: $250 per person

Vehicle Entry Fees:

• Foreign Registered Vehicles:

  • Motorcycles: $20
  • Cars and Pick-ups: $30
  • Tour Company Vehicles: $100
  • Buses and Lorries: $150

• Uganda Registered Vehicles:

  • Motorcycles: UGX 30,000
  • Cars and Pick-ups: UGX 30,000
  • Tour Company Vehicles: UGX 30,000
  • Buses and Lorries: UGX 200,000

Transportation Costs and Fuel Prices:

As of February 2025, transportation costs in Uganda are influenced by various factors, including fuel prices, vehicle type, and travel distances. The average price of petrol is approximately UGX 5,500 per liter, while diesel averages UGX 5,200 per liter.

Estimated Transportation Costs:

• Self-Drive Car Rental: $70–$150 per day, depending on the vehicle type and rental company.
• Guided Safari Tours: $150–$500 per person per day, varying based on the package and inclusions.
• Domestic Flights: $150–$400, depending on the destination and airline.

Budgeting for a Ugandan Safari:

When planning a safari in Uganda, consider the following expenses:

1. Park Entrance Fees: As detailed above.
2. Gorilla and Chimpanzee Permits: $800 and $250 per person, respectively.
3. Accommodation:
   • Budget: $30–$80 per night
   • Mid-Range: $100–$250 per night
   • Luxury: $300–$1,000+ per night
4. Transportation: Costs as outlined above.
5. Meals and Drinks: Budget meals range from $5–$15, while restaurant meals can cost $20–$50.

By accounting for these factors, you can create a comprehensive budget tailored to your preferences and ensure a memorable safari experience in Uganda.

Note: Prices are subject to change. It’s advisable to check with relevant authorities or service providers for the most current information before finalizing your plans.