Uganda Safari FAQ

Is Uganda a safe country to travel to ?^

Although Uganda has a turbulent history and suffered from war for many years, it is a safe country to visit nowadays. You will be warmly welcomed by the friendly residents and Kampala has no proved  to be one of the safest capital cities in (East) Africa!

AllAfrika Safaris arranges your destinations to visit the national parks, majority of which are on the south and southwest of Uganda and are safe to visit.  We will take you to even the border area with Rwanda and DRC which have still remained stable. While all national parks and wildlife reserves are well protected by the rangers of the Uganda Wildlife Authority, visitors of Bwindi National Park are always accompanied by a military escort during their activity.

We discourage our clients to go further north of Uganda because of the presence of the Lord Resistance Army (LRA) in the north. You can go as far as the Murchison Falls National Park. There has been several meetings between the LRA and government  for peace talks but the situation in the north still remains unstable.

What is the best period for safari in Uganda?^

Officially Uganda has a dry season from December/January till mid March and from June till mid September. These months are also most popular with tourists, with July and August as the peak season.

Most rain falls in October-November and April-May. However, this doesn’t mean that it rains all day. Usually it is a tropical shower at night or shortly during the day, but in Uganda you can trust that after rain comes sunshine! The weather is no reason to avoid travelling in the wet season. You might even consider it because of the availability of gorilla permits.

Like in the rest of the world, climates seem to be changing and make it more difficult for us to predict the weather during your safari. On the contrary, the temperature is very stable and pleasant, with sunshine 365 days a year. During the day the temperature averages between 23 and 27°C, though in some places it can cool down night.

One remarkable aspect about coming to Uganda is, whether you travel in the dry, dusty months or in wet season, you will never find the crowded tourism like in Kenya or Tanzania. If you spot a lion or leopard, it is very likely that you will be the only one, even in peak season!

How big are your groups?^

To retain flexibility and maintain a personal atmosphere, we limit the number of passengers per vehicle to 5  to ensure that everybody has a window seat. We offer tailor-made safaris for every number of participants. No minimum number is required, but of course the larger the group the less per person rate you will get.

Besides the Land Cruisers we also use the 4WD minibuses which can take a maximum of 9 people. For your own convenience we try to limit this number to 7, unless the luggage is highly restricted.

Can I book my safari with you when I am travelling alone?^

We can book you as a single traveller however to reduce the costs it might be possible join other groups if you prefer to do so. Essential is that your interests, budget and preferred route correspond with the group that you want to join and of course other members should agree too. Finding other groups to join can be quite difficult, especially in low season.

Do I need a visa?^

Despite the fact that you need a passport which is valid for another six months, you are also required to have a tourist visa before you enter Uganda. Visas can be purchased upon arrival at Entebbe Airport. Photos are not required and a visa cost US$ 50 per person.

 Can I do the gorilla tracking?^

If you are interested in a mountain gorilla safari in Uganda or Rwanda you are required to buy a gorilla permit. As only eight people are allowed per day at each gorilla group, the demand is high. Of course we would be happy to assist you with this, all we need to know is the preferred date. In order to be able to buy the gorilla permit you have to provide us with your full names, nationality and passport number. A certain level of fitness is not required for the gorilla tracking, though you will be refused on the tracking when you are sick. Also note that the minimum age limit for visiting the gorillas is 15 years.

Please check the more info on gorilla trekking safari, rules and tips.

 What transport do you offer?^

Provided cars for the tours are open roofed 4WD safari vehicles. Our comfortable Land Cruisers offer seats for 6 people. However, to ensure that everybody has a window seat and luggage can be stored well, we usually don’t take more than 5 people in the these safari vehicles.
Besides the Land Cruisers we also own several 4WD minibuses which can take a maximum of 9 people. For your own convenience we try to limit this number to 7, unless the luggage is highly restricted.

 How are the accommodations?^

For your safari you basically have the choice to stay in budget or luxury accommodation. Budget accommodation consists of simple and basic rooms, bandas or tents, providing double or twin beds and mosquito nets when necessary. Private bathrooms are not always available and therefore you might to have to use the public showers and toilets/pit latrines. Hot water is not guaranteed.

Luxury accommodations are 4 or 5 star lodges, providing comfortable rooms or luxury furnished tents and a private bathroom. Flush toilets as well as hot and cold running water will be available. 

Middle class accommodations are rare in Uganda and can only be booked in some places.

How can I pay for my safari?^

Once you confirmed the final itinerary with us, you will be requested to pay a deposit per our terms and conditions. In case gorilla tracking is included in the program we also ask you to make a full prepayment for the gorilla permits. Note that availability of accommodations and permits is not guaranteed until officially confirmed by us. Reservations will be made as soon as the payment has been received on our account.

Click here for the Terms and Conditions.

Are vaccinations required for my visit to Uganda?^

Different types of vaccinations are recommended and/or required before entering Uganda.

Besides bringing mosquito repellent, we also advise you to take malaria prevention medications. Vaccination against yellow fever is mandatory, just as a cholera stamp in your vaccination passport. Immunizations against DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio) and Hepatitis A are recommended as well.

Please consult your local doctor or health department for a detailed and updated advice.

 Are ATM cards / credit cards / traveller cheques accepted?^

Unfortunately it is still difficult to withdraw money in Uganda. Mastercards are not accepted and only a few banks allow you to draw money with a Visa credit card (among others Standard Chartered and Barclays). Traveller cheques are a safe way to carry money, but are also accepted at a small number of banks in Kampala. Besides, the exchange rate will be less favourable and and high bank fees will be charged.

Therefore we advise you to bring cash and have money changed upon arrival in Kampala. Both US dollars and Euros are easy to change, though for some expenses, like the payment of visa, entrance fees and activities in national parks, it is easier to have dollars available.

Important: US dollars bills from the year 1999 and below are NOT accepted!

 How much should I tip?^

Of course a tip fully depends on the level of your satisfaction, but even a small amount to show your gratitude will be highly appreciated. You can think of USD 5-10 per day if you were happy with the service of the guide and 5-10% in (luxurious) hotels and restaurants. The small, local restaurants are not used to tipping.