Travelling to Uganda can be daunting but we can make sure you start your trip fully informed &  on the right track. Below we answer some of the usual questions that we receive, but we are always on hand to answer anything else that comes up as you pack your bags.

General

  • Capital City: Kampala

  • Name and Location of the Airport: Entebbe International Airport which is located 45km south of Kampala on Lake Victoria

  • Language: English is an official language in Uganda. It is a pleasure traveling around the country as most people speak English and are always so eager and willing to assist

  • Currency: Ugandan Shillings are the official currency however all hotels & lodges accept US dollar notes older than 2009

  • Visas: Visas are required for most nationalities and you are now required to obtain them online prior to travelling. Please use the following link https://visas.immigration.go.ug/ to register. Visas cost USD50. If you are travelling to both Kenya and Uganda it is possible to obtain an East African multi entry visa https://www.immigration.go.ug/services/east-african-tourist-visa. However you should purchase this from the immigration services of the country you will enter first on your trip. When entering the country at one of the many road crossings, it is also highly recommended to have a pre-arranged visa.

Weather

Uganda is a small country situated on the equator with its capital, Kampala set at 3900m above sea level. There are many misconceptions about the weather based on Uganda being located on the equator (that it is scorching hot) however, the altitude really brings the temperatures down.

There are 2 seasons in Uganda, namely wet and dry seasons. The temperatures during both season are generally the same ranging between 20 and 28 degrees Celcius. The wet season is less reliable than it once was although usually takes place from March to May, and October and November – the rainiest month of the year is April.

Money

Card & USD payments are available at most lodges Euros & Pounds are also mainly accepted although exchange rates are not always favourable .

When moving around Uganda then cash is King, meaning that there are only a few places where you are able to pay with a debit or credit card. There are ATMs where you can withdraw Ugandan Shillings in the major centres: Entebbe, Kampala, Masindi, Fort Portal, Kabale, Mbarara, Gulu, Jinja. The further you move away from a centre, the less likely you are to find a functioning ATM.

Electricity and Charging

Plug style: British (3 square sockets) 

The electricity grid does not extend to the majority of the places that you will want to visit as a tourist meaning that lodges will use a generator or solar to meet the electricity needs of guests. 

If you are a photographer or rely heavily on your phone, it is recommended to travel with a battery bank and make sure all your electronics are charged before leaving a major centre.

Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is one of the major attractions for tourists to visit Uganda every year.

On the day make sure to wear…

  • Light clothing (it is hot and humid in the forest)

  • Comfortable walking shoes with good tread (its really muddy)

  • A comfortable small backpack for excess clothing, cameras, your packed lunch, water, etc.

  • A walking stick ( the guides will offer one so take it – you wont regret it)

You will only have 1 hour with the gorillas so make sure that you make the most of it – don’t hide behind your lens for the full time. Take the time to sit quietly and experience these incredible animals, eye to eye.