What to expect when

travelling in Uganda

When is the best time to visit Uganda?

Uganda has a pleasant tropical climate, with temperatures averaging around 26°C in the lowlands and about 17°C in the highlands . Thanks to its location on the equator, it’s a year-round destination, but there are better periods depending on your plans.

The dry seasons (from December to February and June to August) are ideal for gorilla tracking and spotting wildlife in the national parks.

The rainy seasons (March to May and October to November) bring lush green landscapes, but more muddy roads and more slippery forest trails.

Visa requirements

Most travellers need a visa to enter Uganda. You can apply easily online via the official e-visa portal:

https://visas.immigration.go.ug

If you’re combining Uganda with Kenya or Rwanda, consider the East Africa Tourist Visa – one visa for all three countries. Note: Tanzania is not part of this visa system

Health and vaccinations

To enter Uganda, you must show proof of a yellow fever vaccination. We also strongly recommend:

– Taking anti-malarial medication – Bringing your own basic medical kit – Always consult your travel clinic several months before departure

Uganda has good medical services in major towns, but remote areas may have limited access.

Uganda’s currency is the Uganda Shilling (UGX).

In most safari lodges and hotels, you can also pay with US Dollars and EUR – especially for tips, park fees and extras.

Credit Cards are accepted in most lodges, however, it is always important to have some cash money as well.

Make sure your US Dollar notes are clean and issued within the last 10 years

ATMs are widely available in cities like Kampala and Entebbe, but limited in more remote areas.

The official language in Uganda is English, and it’s spoken in most hotels, lodges and all our guides are fluent in English.

Apart from English, Uganda has many different local languages, with Luganda being the most widely spoken. Swahili is spoken to a limited extent.

Most travellers explore Uganda with a private 4×4 vehicle and driver-guide – the most comfortable and easy way to see the country. However, Self drives are possible (clickable to the self drive part). Road conditions vary:

Main routes between towns are generally in good condition.

Inside national parks, expect dirt roads that may be rough, especially during the rainy season.

You can also fly to most national parks — please inquire about the options

Tipping is appreciated throughout Uganda, particularly in the tourism sector. As a guideline:

Guides & drivers: USD 5–10 per person per day

Lodge staff: USD 2–5 per person per day (shared tip box)

Respect local customs by dressing modestly in rural areas.

Always ask before photographing people.

Plastic bags are banned in Uganda – bring a reusable bag with you.

Support local communities by buying crafts and joining village experiences where possible.

Traveller Stories

Still have questions about travelling in

Uganda?​

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