FAQs
Uganda is located in East Africa, boarded by Congo to the west, Rwanda to the southwest, and Tanzania to the south, Kenya to east and south Sudan to the north. Uganda is known to many as a land gifted by nature, and over 80% of her attractions are nature-based, with a renowned population of endangered mountain gorillas, making it a prime attraction in this part of the world. Dubbed the “Pearl of Africa” by Winston Churchill, Uganda is truly a traveler’s haven, with a great deal of bird diversity, mountains, numerous waterfalls, stunning scenery, verdant forests, and many other attractions.
Uganda is one of the safest and most welcoming countries in Africa especially for visitors to the country more so if visitors follow certain security and safety guidelines. Rarely do you hear about security risks for tourists or accidents. The Uganda government ensures maximum security for tourists in the country and also for its citizens, these ranging from traffic police to national park police for all national parks in the county. Uganda is safe, but just like any country, you need to keep away from trouble and keep your self safe.
Yes, you need a visa prior to entering Uganda for a tour. A Ugandan visa can be obtained from the Uganda missions/consulate abroad or use the new online visa application system at /immigration.go.ug/content/visas-and-passes An ordinary single entry visa costs 50$ valid for 90 days, while an East African visa costs 100$, to access Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya, unfortunately, Tanzania is not yet part of the single east African visa arrangement. Visas can be obtained upon arrival at all border posts in the country.
Uganda experiences an equatorial climate comprising of both dry and wet seasons through out the year. All travelers should be aware of the Climate Dynamics around the country to know when to travel to do a certain safari adventure and when not to. Due to the rains that fall almost anytime in the country, we advise travelers to carry essential gear like the Rain Jacket to enjoy the Best.
Accommodation facilities in Uganda are categorized in 3 major levels: – Luxury / high end, mid-range / standard and budget / basic accommodation.
Luxury lodges are somewhat expensive, and range between 400$ – 700$ per night/person
Mid-range / standard lodges are more suitable for medium-income earners, and range between 170$ – 350$ per person / night.
Budget / basic accommodation is specifically for price-sensitive travellers/backpackers. It is the modest category of lodging, providing very basic facilities.
All the categories above provide self-contained rooms, apart from some budget facilities which have shared facilities
Mountain gorilla trekking adventure can be wet and hot work. Hence the need to carry both a waterproof jackets and a backpack to hold essentials like binoculars and cameras. Trekking can some times be through thick vegetation with thorns and climbing steep terrain. It’s advised to have good hiking shoes, long trousers, long sleeved shirts, sun cream, sun glasses, gloves, walking stick and a hat.
Mostly USD, GBP, EUROS are some of the international currencies used in Uganda; and Uganda shillings are locally used. The exchange rates are usually inconsistent, and they can change any time without prior notice, so check well in advance to get the most current exchange rates at https://www.bou.or.ug/bou/home.html Note: Only USD notes printed in 2006 and later are accepted (as of 2017) and larger denomination bills attract a higher exchange rate.
