Travel Information

Travellers from non-visa-exempt countries visiting Uganda for tourism, holidays, or business are required to apply for and obtain a visa.

Uganda visa applications are completed online and processed by the Ministry of Internal Affairs through the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control.

Uganda is generally a safe destination for international travellers, and the government remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of visitors.

As with any travel destination, travellers should remain vigilant and follow the advice of their guides.

In urban areas, travellers should exercise caution and remain aware of their surroundings, particularly in busy or unfamiliar areas.

Uganda has a generally pleasant climate, with conditions varying across its diverse regions and landscapes. The country is suitable for travel throughout the year.

The dry seasons run from December to February and June to August, offering favourable conditions for wildlife viewing.

Vaccination against yellow fever is mandatory for entry into Uganda. A Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate may be required when applying for a Uganda visa and upon arrival at the country’s entry points.

Vaccination against hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and meningitis may be recommended based on your travel plans, activities, and medical advice.

Malaria medication is strongly advised, as Uganda’s tropical climate supports malaria transmission. Consult your healthcare provider for a prescription before travel.

Uganda is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, and gorilla trekking offers a very high chance of encountering them in their natural habitat.

Gorilla treks in Uganda typically last 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family and the terrain. Some treks are relatively short, while others require a longer, more strenuous hike.

Most of Uganda’s tourist attractions are spread across different regions, so travelling between destinations can take several hours.

Driving times vary depending on the route, starting point, destination, and road conditions. Driving between major tourist destinations typically takes 3 to 9 hours.

Yes, internet access is available in Uganda, and you can generally stay connected during your safari. MiFi devices are available in safari vehicles to help maintain connectivity while travelling.

Most lodges also provide Wi-Fi, typically in common areas such as lounges and restaurants.

However, many safari destinations are located in remote areas, where internet connectivity may be slower or less reliable than in urban areas.

Yes. Air travel is available for travellers who want to reduce lengthy road journeys. Two domestic airlines offer scheduled and charter flights to Murchison Falls and Kidepo Valley.

Air travel is also available to airstrips near Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi Impenetrable, and Lake Mburo National Parks, as well as Kisoro.

Flights have limited availability, so booking in advance is recommended, particularly during peak travel seasons.

Yes. Tour guides who speak languages other than English are available in Uganda. Multilingual guides may be available in French, German, Spanish, and Italian, subject to availability.

You can request a customized safari with a guide who speaks your preferred language, particularly if you are not proficient in English.

Yes. Your Uganda or Rwanda safari itinerary can be customized to match your interests, preferences, and travel plans. We provide relevant information to help you make informed choices.

If your preferred choice is not feasible, we advise you accordingly and offer suitable alternatives that align with your travel preferences.

Yes. You can change or upgrade the accommodation included in your quotation during the planning process, subject to availability.

If your preferred options are unavailable, various accommodation options across different standards are available, with suitable alternatives offered to match your preferences.

Please note that such adjustments may affect the overall safari cost from the initial quotation.

Samora Africa Safaris accepts instant bookings, subject to the availability of gorilla and chimpanzee permits and accommodation.

Booking at least three months before your safari is recommended, especially during the high season, as the Uganda Wildlife Authority issues a limited number of permits daily.

It is advisable to carry both your Visa card and some cash during your safari. Your card can be used to withdraw money and make larger payments where applicable.

Cash is useful for smaller purchases, tipping, and emergencies, especially where card machines are unavailable or not working.

Common foreign currencies that can be exchanged for local currency include USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, CAD, JPY, and AED. These can be exchanged at airports upon arrival or in urban centres.