Travel Guide to Uganda

General Information
Kampala is the largest city and the capital of Uganda. Officially known as the Republic of Uganda (Swahili: Jamhuri ya Uganda), the country is landlocked and located in East Africa. Uganda shares its borders with Kenya to the east, South Sudan to the north, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, Rwanda to the southwest, and Tanzania to the south.

Entebbe International Airport
Entebbe International Airport is Uganda’s only international airport. It is situated approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) southwest of Entebbe, on the northern shores of Lake Victoria.

Visa Requirements
All travelers intending to visit Uganda for tourism, business, study, medical treatment, or personal visits must apply for and obtain a visa online. Applications can be submitted via the following link: https://visas.immigration.go.ug/

Currency & Payment Methods
The official currency of Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). Credit cards are widely accepted, though additional transaction fees may apply. Travelers can withdraw cash from ATMs using international bank cards; however, it is advisable to check with your bank regarding global withdrawal options before departure. Local banks and credit unions generally offer the best exchange rates, while major international banks such as Chase and Bank of America provide ATM services overseas. Online currency exchange providers like Travelex also offer convenient foreign exchange services. Both euros and US dollars are accepted in many places.

Transportation in Uganda
If you choose not to rent a car, transportation options within cities include shared taxi vans (matatus) and boda boda motorcycles. However, these may not always be the safest means of transport. For a safer alternative, consider using private taxis or ride-hailing services such as Uber, which operates in Kampala.

Photography in Uganda
Uganda offers stunning photography opportunities. While smartphones can capture great images, a camera with at least a 10x zoom or an SLR with a 400mm lens is recommended for wildlife photography.

When taking photos:

  • Bring extra batteries and a dust-free storage bag.
  • Be aware that internet speeds may be slow, so uploading large photo files could take time. Carry sufficient memory cards.
  • If photographing wildlife professionally, research camera settings and techniques in advance.
  • Always seek permission before photographing local people, as unsolicited photography is generally not appreciated.

Traveling with Children
For families, a private or customized safari is recommended to accommodate the needs of children. Consider the following:

  • Schedule sufficient breaks between game drives to allow children to rest.
  • Plan engaging activities to maintain their interest.
  • Choose a tour operator that offers child-friendly services and activities.
  • Bring additional entertainment for long vehicle journeys.

Climate & Best Time to Visit
Uganda is often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa” due to its pleasant climate throughout the year. Average temperatures range between 21°C and 31°C. The country experiences two rainy seasons: from March to May and from October to November. In mountainous areas, temperatures can drop to 10°C. National parks, lodges, and other tourist facilities remain open year-round, making any time of the year suitable for a visit.

Health & Medical Precautions
Travelers should bring all necessary personal medications. It is strongly recommended to have comprehensive medical and travel insurance to cover potential medical expenses during the trip.

Vaccinations & Immunizations
The following vaccinations are recommended: Hepatitis B, Meningococcal Meningitis, Rabies, and Typhoid. It is also advised to drink only bottled or boiled water. Sodas, alcoholic beverages, coffee, tea, and fresh fruit juices prepared with boiled water are considered safe.