Uganda Safaris

If you plan to visit Uganda, you must apply for a visa beforehand at visas.immigration.go.ug. The Ugandan Ministry of Internal Affairs announced this on October 14, 2021. Covid-19 travel restrictions have been suspended since March 7, 2023, but different destinations may have their own entry requirements, so double-check before transit or departure. Upon arrival, your temperature will be checked and screened for infectious diseases. If you have a fever or show COVID-19 symptoms, you might need to take a COVID-19 test. Only people with valid tickets and airport staff are allowed inside the terminal building. For more information about entry requirements, check the Ugandan Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control website.

It is important to ensure you have all your routine vaccinations up to date before going on a safari in Uganda. The risk of malaria is low in higher altitudes such as Bwindi, but high in lower altitudes, particularly near Lake Victoria, and even higher if you venture into rural areas and villages outside of the parks and reserves. Consult with a travel doctor to determine if you require vaccinations, and ensure you receive them in a timely manner. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers aged one year or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Yes, Uganda has international flights connecting it to the world through Entebbe International Airport. Entebbe International Airport (IATA: EBB, ICAO: HUEN) is the largest airport in Uganda, serving the area of Entebbe. It offers non-stop flights to 27 destinations in 15 countries, with 5 domestic flights available. Direct flights to Uganda are not available from various regions, including the United States, Canada, Southern America, Central America, the Caribbean, Southern Asia, China, Japan, Eastern Asia, South-Eastern Asia, Central Asia, or Oceania. The only intercontinental flights operating from Entebbe International Airport (EBB) are between Entebbe and Europe and between Entebbe and the Middle East. But there are connecting flights from major cities across the world and the cheapest ones are Kenya Airways through Nairobi, Rwandair through Kigali, Ethiopia Airlines through Addis Ababa, South African Airways through Johannesburg.

Yes, visitors to Uganda require a visa. You can quickly obtain a tourist visa online for US$50 without extensive paperwork. A single tourist East African visa for Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda is available at US$100. Required documents include a passport and a yellow fever card copy. Stay up-to-date with visa information at visas.immigration.go.ug.

The length of a safari in Uganda can be customized to fit visitors' preferences and budgets. Safari packages range from 3 to 14 days and cover various parks and activities. A 7-10 day safari is popular among visitors as it provides ample time for exploration and activities. The safari's length affects the cost, with longer safaris being more expensive. Visitors should research and compare different safari packages to find the best option that fits their needs and budget.

On safari in Uganda, expect to see a diverse range of wildlife, including the "Big Five" (elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos), primates such as chimpanzees and gorillas, as well as giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and antelopes. The national parks, such as Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Kidepo Valley, offer some of the best wildlife viewing safaris in Africa, with stunning landscapes. Boat cruises along the Nile River and Kazinga Channel are perfect for observing Uganda's rich birdlife, with over 1,000 species recorded.

If you're a first-time traveler, Uganda is an ideal destination to discover unique African cultures. The country boasts diverse cultures of over 56 ethnic groups who speak various languages, including English and Swahili as the official languages. Ugandan people are well-known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, often welcoming visitors with open arms and smiles. Uganda's rich culture is reflected in its traditions, music, art, and dance, influenced by the different ethnic communities. From the colorful clothing worn during festivities to the rhythmic beats of traditional drumming, Uganda's culture is an immersive and captivating experience.

The best place to experience Uganda's culture is Kampala for a fusion of modern and native. Head inside the country for rural cultures, and you'll find uninfluenced rich traditions and customs. Cultural festivals and events showcase the country's heritage, such as the vibrant Buganda Kingdom ceremonies or the lively dances of the Karamojong people and Batwa pygmy communities in the mountains. It's important to approach local customs respectfully and open-mindedly, as Ugandans cherish their traditional values and sense of community. Engaging with locals, trying delicious Ugandan cuisine, and taking in the stunning scenery will make your visit to Uganda a memorable and rewarding adventure.

Ugandans are renowned for their warm hospitality and diverse cultural heritage stemming from over 56 ethnic groups. This diversity is reflected in their strong adherence to traditions, vibrant music and dance, and deep respect for community bonds and family ties. Religion, particularly Christianity and Islam, plays a central role in their lives, while resilience and a strong work ethic drive their determination to overcome challenges. Traditional clothing, linguistic diversity, and a profound connection to the environment underscore their identity. Amidst economic and historical complexities, Ugandans display a friendly, community-oriented spirit, making interactions with them a culturally rich and meaningful experience.

Lake Mburo National Park is the closest safari destination to Kampala, Uganda's capital. This small park offers a small-scale safari experience where you can see various local wildlife, including birds, primates, reptiles, and some larger animals like giraffes and zebras. It's convenient for those looking for a taste of wildlife without venturing too far from the city. If you're looking for a more traditional and expansive safari experience with the "Big Five" (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros), you might consider traveling a bit further to Queen Elizabeth National Park. This park is still relatively close to Kampala and offers a more immersive safari adventure. For a truly iconic and world-renowned safari experience, you can venture a bit farther to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park to trek and observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, a unique and unforgettable opportunity. Remember that travel times can vary based on road conditions and transportation options in Uganda.

Uganda offers relatively good traditional wildlife-viewing safaris by vehicle and exceptional safaris by boat. The country's wildlife reserves provide a more private vacation experience than Kenya or Tanzania, and Uganda vacations are cheaper, too.