Uganda Travel Tips
Uganda Travel Tips, guidelines and Useful information
Uganda aptly named the Pearl of Africa, combines unparalleled natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and genuine hospitality, creating an irresistible allure for all who visit. From papyrus wetlands and semi-arid savannahs, to Gorilla trekking in mist-shrouded forests and marveling at alpine flora on snowcapped Mountains of the Moon – the nick name for the Rwenzori Mountain. Uganda offers wilderness in the raw and on a Uganda safari with Jungle Escape Africa, you experience it in style. Planning a trip to Uganda? Check the below travel guide, advice and useful information for an enjoyable safari experience.
Getting to Uganda
Entebbe is Uganda’s airport city while her capital is Kampala. For an international traveler wishing to visit Uganda, book flights to Entebbe. Entebbe International airport which lies 40km from the capital Kampala, is serviced by a number of international airlines including KLM-Royal Dutch airlines, Turkish airlines, SN Brussels, Qatar airlines, Emirates, Ethiopian airlines, Fly Dubai, Kenya airways, Uganda airlines, Egypt air, among others. Uganda can also be reached over land from Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania. It is for example possible to fly into Rwanda and cross by road for a cheaper Gorilla Safari in Uganda. The same happens with her other neighboring countries of Kenya and Tanzania.
On arrival in Uganda
Customs and immigration officials are politely friendly and efficient, and a visa for those who require one, can be purchased on the spot at Entebbe International airport or at any overland border. Foreign exchange and ATM facilities are available at the airport, which is also serviced by several shops and restaurants. Jungle Escape Africa will arrange your transfers from the airport when you book a Uganda Safari with them.
Health Travel Tips
A certificate of Yellow Fever vaccination is required. All visitors should take Malaria Prophylaxis drugs. It is advisable to drink bottled rather than tap water.
Money in Uganda
The unit of currency is the Uganda Shilling. Foreign currency cash can be exchanged for local currency at the bank and bureau de change across the country. Hard currencies like dollars can be used at the accommodation facilities but transactions for souvenir purchases should be made in the local Uganda currency. Also, credit cards are not widely accepted outside Kampala and major tourist lodges. You can use your visa cards in Kampala and other major cities to withdraw cash.
Best time to visit Uganda
Uganda can be visited at any time of the year. There are no extreme weather conditions of too much rain or sunshine. However, mountain hikes, Gorilla trekking and some forest walks get more challenging during the rainy months of October-November and March to May.
What to wear
Day time temperatures are generally warm to hot, so bring lots of light clothing. Evenings are cooler, especially at the high altitudes, so carry a couple of light sweaters too. Those for mountain hikes will be exposed to alpine conditions and should therefore pack accordingly. Primate treks like for Gorillas, Chimpanzees and Golden monkeys require appropriate clothing like breathable long sleeve shirts, long pants or trousers and tall socks tucked in. don’t forget to bring a waterproof jacket, sunglasses and a hat. Check how to prepare for Gorilla trekking.
What to bring
A valid passport is mandatory and visa requirements should be checked before you travel. To make the most of a wildlife safari in national parks and game reserves, carry binoculars and cameras. Toiletries and other essentials can be bought in the cities.
Driving in Uganda
Driving is on the left side. Visitors without experience of African roads are advised to organize a vehicle with a driver rather than self-drive.
Tipping
Tipping is not a slowly becoming a standard practice at local hotels, restaurants and some major tourist spots like national parks. And it is always appreciated. Guides and drivers should always be tipped.
Food and drink
Tourist-oriented hotels, lodges and restaurants serve good western style meals, while a wide range of cuisines being available in the capital and some larger towns. You may want to have a taste of the local Uganda dishes. These can be obtained from the restaurants. It is basically ugali (a stiff maize porridge) or matooke (cooked bananas) along other foods eaten with a stew.
What to buy
A wide selection of local handicrafts are available as souvenirs. These include musical instruments such as drums as well as excellent local basket work, paintings, batiks and pottery. You can also pick a pack of Uganda coffee to carry with you one of the best coffees in the world.
Language
English is widely spoken across the country and is the official language. Of more than 30 different indigenous languages, Luganda serves as something of lingua franca.