Uganda Travel Guide
Uganda: Know before you go
Prepare for an unforgettable gorilla trekking tour in Uganda with our comprehensive travel guide, offering all the essential details you need before your visit. Experience the thrill of encountering chimpanzees and endangered mountain gorillas amidst the stunning landscapes of the African savannah, with its iconic vistas of waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and picturesque villages.
While gorilla trekking is a highlight for many visitors, Uganda offers a wealth of other adventures to explore. Cruise leisurely along the shores of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, and discover remote villages nestled along its banks. Embark on exhilarating white water rafting excursions on the Nile River or enjoy a tranquil boat safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you can observe hippos, crocodiles, and buffaloes in their natural habitat. Explore the thundering Murchison Falls on foot and immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness of Mount Elgon. Cross the border into Rwanda to swim in the crater lake atop the Mgahinga Volcanoes or ascend above the snowline in the mighty Rwenzoris. Let your Uganda vacation be as adventurous as you desire.
For a deeper immersion into Ugandan culture and to ensure you make the most of your vacation, consult our travel guide for top tips, weather information by month, and other essential details.
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Visa and entry
For most visitors, a visa is necessary to enter Uganda. A single-entry visa costs 50 USD per person, while a multiple-entry visa is priced at 100 USD per person. These visas can be obtained from Ugandan Diplomatic and Consular Missions abroad prior to arrival. Alternatively, visitors can apply for a visa online through the official portal at https://visas.immigration.go.ug.
It is recommended to carry the visa fees in USD cash, with notes printed in 2013 or later. Additionally, it’s important to note that the immigration process upon arrival can vary in duration, depending on traffic and the number of arriving guests. It may take up to one hour or more to complete the immigration formalities.
Health information
When traveling to Uganda, it’s imperative to possess a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Ensure all routine vaccinations, including chickenpox, polio, MMR, typhoid, Hepatitis A, and the yearly flu shot, are up to date. Given the prevalence of malaria in most parts of Uganda, it’s advisable to carry anti-malarial medication and mosquito repellent. Pregnant women should exercise caution, particularly in rural areas, due to the risk of Zika virus transmission. It’s essential to refrain from consuming tap water in Uganda; opt for bottled or filtered water instead.
Language and religion
Uganda boasts a rich linguistic tapestry, with approximately 49 languages spoken across the country. However, English and Swahili hold the status of official languages, while Luganda is widely spoken. Reflecting its cultural diversity, Uganda is predominantly Christian, with a notable Muslim minority comprising about 14% of the population. The Iganga District in the eastern region exhibits the highest concentration of Muslims. Additionally, around 1% of Ugandans adhere to indigenous beliefs, with many integrating these traditions alongside Islam or Christianity in their spiritual practices.
Currency and cards
Uganda’s national currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX), although US dollars printed in 2013 or later are commonly accepted in many tourist destinations. When exchanging currency, it’s advisable to use higher denomination notes, such as 50 or 100. While ATMs are plentiful in Uganda, it’s recommended to withdraw money only from ATMs attached to banks to minimize the risk of fraud. Visa and Mastercard are generally accepted in larger establishments, but American Express cards may not always be welcomed.
Tipping is not a widespread practice in Uganda; however, it is appreciated as the country is a developing nation with wage rates typically lower than those in Western countries. Showing appreciation through tipping is a thoughtful gesture that can positively impact service providers.
Gorilla trekking
Encountering an overgrown gorilla is an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting impression. These magnificent creatures, on the brink of extinction, offer a unique and awe-inspiring encounter, creating memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. While facing such a massive animal may evoke fear, gorillas are generally peaceful and tolerant towards humans, despite their imposing size. Sadly, human actions have threatened their existence, leaving them among the most endangered species on the planet. Today, they are only found in the jungles of Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo.
Bwindi National Park, nestled within an authentic equatorial jungle, is home to the world’s rarest gorilla species. Nearly half of the global population of mountain gorillas resides here, making it a vital sanctuary for their conservation. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is a challenging yet rewarding adventure, involving hours of hiking through steep slopes and rugged terrain to observe these primate families in their natural habitat. Accompanied by experienced guides, trekkers may also encounter other monkey species and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Gorilla trekking is a highlight of any Uganda tour, particularly for those who are active and physically fit.
Best Places To Visit
Murchison Falls National Park, located in northwestern Uganda, is the largest national park in the country, covering an
Kibale Forest National Park, located in western Uganda, is renowned for its dense tropical rainforest and incredible biodiversity,
Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is a stunning wildlife reserve. It covers approximately 1,978 square
Best Time To Visit
While travel in Uganda remains feasible year-round, the dry months are generally regarded as the optimal time to visit the country. These months coincide with the best conditions for gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Kibale Forest National Park. For detailed insights into the ideal timing for your visit and the highlights of each month, delve deeper into our comprehensive guide.
Things To Do
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Uganda's wildlife, where you can encounter silverback mountain gorillas up close, witness the intricate dynamics of chimpanzee families, and observe the majestic 600-pound giant forest hog in its natural habitat. Cruise across Africa's largest lake, and indulge in the abundance of unforgettable wildlife experiences that Uganda has to offer. Craft your ideal vacation with our curated list of the top activities to do in Uganda.
