When planning to visit Uganda, its very necessary to be well read about the country for a successful journey in Uganda
Climate
Uganda comprises of a tropical climate with two climate seasons. Climate in Uganda varies regionally but generally Uganda’s climate is cool most of the year, although it gets very cold in forested and mountainous regions.
Dry season: December – March and June – August/early September
Wet season: April-May and November
Its possible for it to rain even during the dry season and a dry day during the rainy seasons. This makes it possible to travel to Uganda all year round as seasonal partners are unpredictable.
Health
Health issues vary from person to person.
General health issues
Travel with your medicines if your on medication, and any medication you you likely need. a comprehensive health insurance plan is needed when traveling incase of any health issue or accident. In some big cities, Kampala the capital city comprises of very good health services of international standards.
Malaria risk: Its necessary to carry a mosquito repellant and some malaria drugs just incase.
Also necessary is to be ensure you drink water from only sealed bottled water and only buy from shops and supermarkets. Be aware of typhoid, bilharzia, hepatitis and cholera
Insurance
Insurance for you travel period is very much necessary, its your backup just in case of any unexpected during your safari.
Transport Means & Getting around:
Uganda offers a number of transportation means which are easy to access and at a good cost right from the airport when you land in Uganda
Airport Taxis are available right at the Enttebbe international airport to any destination and at your convenience.
In the city, a taxi park is available taking you to any destination within Uganda at a low price. The taxi park offers, mini buses, taxis coaches at usually transport people to upcountry.
Also Boda bodas / motor cycles are available in different towns offering quick and convenient transportation however, boda bodas are very much prone to accidents!
There are mini-bus taxis that serves cities and the countryside. You have Boda-Boda Motorcycle by the thousands that offer quick, efficient transport, however with some dangers involved.
The taxi park also has long distance buses / coaches which transport people to neighboring countries like to Rwanda, Nairobi and even into Tanzania.
Laggage & Packing
Recommended to pack as light as possible. Limit your self to just one bag. Many bags can easily get lost as you move from one place to another, or even get lost from the airport.
Travel Dress code
Its usually warm during the day and requires light clothes, a coat, jacket or sweater incase of rain. The nights are usually cold and require a sweater
For wildlife viewing. clothing in neutral colors – khaki, light brown/green, tan. Avoid bright colors as they catch eye of wildlife.
A safari jacket, comfortable short & long sleeved safari shirts, shorts and long trousers, a pair comfortable hiking boots
Traveler Security
Uganda is a very safe country, but its also necessary for visitors to take precaution so they remain safe. Keep an eye on your possession and luggage. Don’t walk along along streets in the night, especially in dark isolated places. advisable to use special hire taxis or hire a car while in the country.
Don’t move with large sums of money, or carry your precious items like jewelry, phone camera on you every where you go. keep them in a safe at your hotel
Hotels & Where to stay
Uganda offers modern hotels and accommodation for all types of travelers and for all budges including backpackers, camping, budget, deluxe and luxury hotels in all locations in Uganda.
Money & Spending
Popular currency is Uganda shillings, although also dollars are accepted in large shopping centers and some shops but not widely accepted. Is best to carry shillings than dollars.
Visas and passports/
All travelers coming into Uganda must obtain a Visa which can be obtained from any pint of entry into the country, airports and borders.
Visa charges
Student visas US $ 20
Single entry US $ 100
Multiple entry 6 months US $ 100
Multiple entry 1 year US $ 200
Inland transit US $ 15
Flights & Getting Around
Visa charges
Student visas US $ 20
Single entry US $ 100
Multiple entry 6 months US $ 100
Multiple entry 1 year US $ 200
Inland transit US $ 15
Flights & Getting Around
Uganda has one international airport; the Entebbe International Airport: located 35km from Kampala, Entebbe is Uganda’s international gateway. Also available in Uganda are charter flights to the different national parks and upcountry destinations.
Airlines available in Uganda : KLM, Air Tanzania, Quatar airways, Egypt Air, Ethiopian Airlines, Gulf Air,Kenya Airways, South African Airways, Emirates. There are daily connections from Nairobi.
Banking:
Uganda has banks operating at international standards including Standard Chartered Bank, Barclays bank and Stanbic bank. Banks have branches operating upcountry in district towns Banks usually open from 8.30a.m to 4.00p.m – Monday to Friday,
Credit Cards Use: Visa, MasterCard and Amex are accepted in banks around city centers and may not be accepted in banks upcountry. Therefore be sure to draw money from your account only in Kampala.
Electrical Current Plugs & sockets
Very important to note Uganda uses voltage of 240 volts and you need to pack a UK plug. Also advised to go with a converter plug or power bank. Uganda often times faces power outages which can go unto 12 hours