Uganda travel guide
Uganda Tourism | Uganda Guide
You're Going to Love Uganda
Bounded by vast jungles, Uganda is home to some of the most elusive wild animals, such as gorillas, baboons, and leopards. The dynamic sprawling landscape features sections of Lake Victoria and the Nile's basin, offering fantastic opportunities for boat tours and unforgettable sunsets. The capital Kampala is rapidly developing a strong arts scene and has a spread of bustling produce markets.
What to do in Uganda
1. Spot Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
The enormous 124 sq mi World Heritage Site has close to half of the world's critically endangered mountain gorillas roaming around the lush rainforest.
2. Gaze Across Lake Bunyonyi
A mystifying expanse of 29 islands makes up the freshwater lake located in the southwestern corner near the border of Rwanda.
3. Visit the Kasubi Tombs
The spiritual site has four kings of Buganda, referred to as kabakas, buried in remarkable thatched dome buildings.
4. Witness the Murchison Falls
In between Lake Kyoga and Lake Albert, the Nile dramatically shoots between a narrow opening of rocks to spill 141 ft down.
5. Take a Trip to Ssesse Islands
Eighty-four islands spread out across Lake Victoria and offer sublime white-sand beaches. The local economies are largely based on fishing, with daily catches available down on the docks.
When to visit Uganda
The temperate climate is best between June and September as the rain stays away and daily temperatures sit around 79-81°F.
How to Get to Uganda
Entry requirements
It is recommended to apply for a 30-day tourist visa, which costs roughly 185,700 UGX (50 USD), online before traveling; however, it is possible to obtain one upon arrival. Citizens from a small list of nations, including Hong Kong, Ireland, Singapore, and Zimbabwe, can visit visa-free for up to 3 months.
Plane
Carriers such as Qatar Airways, Emirates, and KLM help operate nonstop flights to Entebbe Airport from cities that include Johannesburg, Amsterdam, and Cairo. A non-stop 4h 30m service from Cairo can be purchased for approximately 1,115,000 UGX (310 USD).
Car
The most common border crossing from Kenya is through Busia, while many travelers from Rwanda pass through either Katuna or Cyanika. The smoothest route from Tanzania is along the western side of Lake Victoria (Masaka – Kakuto Road).
Bus
Direct buses can be caught from several cities in neighboring countries, including Kigali, Goma, Nairobi, and Juba. A fare for the 12h commute from Nairobi to Kampala costs roughly 80,000 UGX (21.50 USD) and can be taken overnight.
Popular airlines serving Uganda
Where to stay in Uganda
In addition to comfortable hotels in major cities, budget hostels can be found in Jinga, Kisoro, and Mbarara. Look for a Bed & Breakfast or cozy resort in the jungle if visiting the southwestern tourist region.
Where to stay in popular areas of Uganda
Most booked hotels in Uganda
How to Get Around Uganda
Public Transportation
The easiest way to get around cities is in minibuses referred to as taxis. A trip from the airport to the centre of Kampala or across town is priced at approximately 37,000 UGX (10 USD).
Trains
It is possible to travel between Kampala and Namanve on one of the country's only railways. The trip takes around 45m and costs roughly 2,000 UGX (0.50 USD).
Bus
Direct services link Kampala to Kabale, Kasese, and Gulu, among others. Departure times are mostly followed in Kampala, though buses will wait until they reach capacity when leaving from smaller cities.
Plane
Aerolink Uganda and Eagle Air schedule domestic flights between cities that include Bugungy, Chobe, Kampala, Kisoro, Gulu, and Pakuba. The 1h service from Kampala to Bugungu costs roughly 984,2000 UGX (265 USD).
The Cost of Living in Uganda
A three-course meal at an upscale restaurant can be bought for around 20,000-30,000 UGX (5.40-8 USD) per person. A bottle of water can cost around 1,000 UGX (0.30 USD), while a beer can be bought for less than 35,000 UGX (1 USD). Credit cards are rarely accepted outside of hotels.