Everything first-time visitors ask us about safaris in Uganda – visas, money, weather, health, safety, and booking – answered in one place.

Visas and entry

Do I need a visa to enter Uganda?

Yes. Tourist visas can be bought in advance via the embassy or consulate in your country or on arrival at Entebbe International Airport and overland borders. A single-entry tourist visa costs US$100 per person for up to 90 days. If you plan to combine Uganda with Rwanda or Kenya, request the East African Tourist Visa instead – also US$100, allowing 90-day multiple entry to all three countries (Tanzania is not yet part of this arrangement). Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond entry, and overstaying attracts a fine of US$30 per day.

Money and tipping

Can I use my ATM card or credit card in Uganda?

Only a few banks accept foreign ATM or Visa cards, and once on safari withdrawal opportunities are rare. Credit card payments attract surcharges of 5–10%. We advise bringing cash and changing money in Kampala – US dollars, British pounds, and euros are easy to change, but note that US dollar bills issued before 1999 are not accepted, and low-denomination bills attract poorer rates. Traveller’s cheques are no longer accepted, and very few places take MasterCard – bring a Visa debit card as backup.

What should I tip in Uganda?

Tipping depends entirely on your satisfaction, but even a small tip is highly appreciated. Consider around US$10 per day for a safari guide you’re happy with, and 5–10% in upmarket hotels, lodges, and restaurants.

Weather and when to travel

What is the best time to travel in Uganda?

Uganda’s dry seasons run December/January to mid-March and June to mid-September – the most popular months, peaking in July–August and over Christmas. Most rain falls in October–November and April–May, but that usually means a tropical shower rather than all-day rain, and wet-season travel brings easier gorilla permit availability. Temperatures are stable and pleasant year-round, averaging 23–27°C by day, cooler at night and in the highlands – and unlike some destinations, even in peak season you’ll rarely share a lion sighting with a crowd.

Health

Are vaccinations required for my Uganda safari?

A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry. Immunizations against DTP and Hepatitis A are recommended, along with malaria prophylactics and mosquito repellent. Visit your health professional 4–6 weeks before travel, and bring personal supplies of any regular medication.

Safety

Is Uganda a safe country for tourists?

Uganda is a very safe country to visit – stable, welcoming, and legendarily hospitable. The most popular national parks in the south and west are well protected by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers, and a dedicated Tourism Police force protects visitors. Kampala is among the safest capitals in East Africa, though as anywhere, keep phones and valuables attended. Uganda is also safe for gay and lesbian travellers, though as a conservative country we recommend discretion.

Booking your safari

Can I do gorilla trekking in Uganda?

Yes – but permits must be bought well in advance, as only eight people may visit each gorilla family per day. We’ll book your permits with your full name, nationality, passport number, and preferred trekking date. The minimum age is 15, and a reasonable level of fitness is required. See our gorilla trekking safaris.

How can I pay for my safari?

Once your itinerary is confirmed, we ask for a 40% deposit, with gorilla permits paid in full at booking; the balance is due before the start of your safari as set out in our booking terms & conditions. We accept Visa (5% service charge) and bank transfer in dollars or euros.

What vehicles do you use?

Open-roofed 4WD safari vehicles: comfortable Land Cruisers seating four to six, plus 4WD minibuses limited to about seven guests so everyone gets a window seat, plenty of legroom, and luggage space. Vehicles are serviced by our mechanics after every trip.

What’s included in the price?

Ground transport in a 4WD with an experienced English-speaking driver/guide, all sights in the programme, park entrance and ranger fees, activities as detailed, accommodation on twin/double sharing, full board, bottled water in the vehicle, and government taxes. Excluded: international flights, visas, drinks, tips, laundry, gorilla/chimp permits, optional activities, personal items, and travel insurance – see our AMREF medevac cover for emergency evacuation insurance.

I’m travelling alone – can I book?

Single travellers are very welcome! To minimize costs we can try to match you with a group, though this can’t be guaranteed, especially in low season. Single rooms are uncommon – more often you’ll have single occupancy of a double with a supplement.