Every Thing you Need To Know Before Traveling To Uganda.
The best way to explore Uganda in depth is by embarking on a well-planned road trip. It is great fun to be on a road trip when you have everything at your fingertips. There are lots of things anyone who plans to visit Uganda should know before the actual trip.
Uganda is a magical destination of its own on the African continent and is referred to as the Pearl of Africa for many reasons. It is every nature lover’s preferred destination offering outstanding wilderness experiences including gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, mountaineering, Big 5 game viewing, and authentic cultural encounters.
Are you planning to travel to Uganda but you feel overwhelmed? Here is everything you need to know before you go on holiday.
Driving in Uganda
One thing you should know about driving in Uganda, especially when on a self-drive tour is that the procedure is completely different from the one back in your home country. For starters, driving in Uganda requires you to keep left and should always be aware that the road conditions are not up to international standards. Traffic rules and regulations must be respected at all times when driving to and from your tourist destination. Before you hit the road to any destination, consider reading through and understanding some of the set regulations.
Getting around Uganda
When it comes to how to get around in Uganda, you shouldn’t be worried because there are multiple options to take. Uganda’s transport system is vibrant and visitors can choose the best and safest option. They include;
Using public buses- Visitors who plan to take long road trips can consider using buses to get to their destinations. There are bus stations/parks in the main towns like Kampala, Gulu, Mbarara, Mbale, and others. The only challenge is that some of the buses do not stop directly at the destination you intend to visit.
Taxis –there are also many taxis offering public transportation means between towns or cities. They can be found in the main taxi parks and like buses, expect overcrowding when traveling. They may not guarantee the ultimate comfort that you desire on your road trip.
Boda boda/motorcycles –these are ideal for anyone who wants to beat the city traffic jams or reach a place as fast as possible. But you should have a helmet for safety reasons and know the cost to where you want to reach. Besides the normal boda boda riders, you can also opt for safe boda where you can conveniently book using an app. However, these are limited to big cities like Kampala/Entebbe. You may also opt for Uber services, especially for comfort reasons and these are available in Kampala city.
Rental cars –hiring a rental car in Uganda for your road trip guarantees you a safe and secure journey. Car hire services are available for self-drive road trips and guided safaris. The self-drive road trips are for travelers who prefer to adventure Uganda on their own and if perhaps you aren’t familiar with the routes, you can hire a car in Uganda with a professional driver guide.
Rental cars provide ultimate comfort and a pocket-friendly rate. Connectivity to and from your destination is assured. Visitors are also assured of safe travel inclusive of their luggage and multiple attractions to explore without rushing as if they used public transportation.
Visas
Uganda like most destinations requires valid tourist visas for you to have access. You can secure a tourist visa in Uganda early enough which you can apply for online via the www.immigration.go.ug. On top of visas, you may also apply for passports. Alternatively, if you intend to visit at least two of the East African destinations, then you can obtain a single East African tourist visa.
When to visit
Yes, Uganda is considered an all-year-round travel destination, experiencing two different seasons that is wet and dry. Uganda lies astride the equator and enjoys tropical kind of climatic conditions. However, the best season to plan your safari should be around the dry season which runs from June, July, August, to September; December, January to February. It is around the peak dry season/months when there is no crowding in most of the destinations and the ground is also kept relatively drier.
Budget-friendly months/season falls around March, April, May, and October to November. It is during these months when the accommodation rates tend to be low as most facilities provide discounted offers.
Vaccination
You need to take the required vaccinations before you travel for a vacation to Uganda. The key vaccinations you may need include a yellow fever vaccine, typhoid, hepatitis B and A, etc.
What to take for a safari to Uganda
The checklist of things to pack for your Uganda tour includes sunscreen, mosquito/insect repellents, a first aid kit, a waterproof daypack, a good camera, a flashlight, a power bank, long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, a rain jacket, and others.
Destinations to explore
The best places to visit on Uganda safari include Bwindi Forest National Park and Mgahinga National Park for mountain gorilla trekking. Kibale National Park, Kyambura Gorge, Budongo Forest, and Kalinzu Forest for chimpanzee tracking. Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo, and Lake Mburo National Park offer the best of wildlife/game drives or safaris. Mountain climbing adventures are perfectly enjoyed on Mount Elgon and Rwenzori Mountain ranges.
Is Uganda safe to visit?
Uganda is safe to travel for a vacation, but ensure that you have travel insurance. Most destinations are safe, but before you get there, inquire from your local tour expert about the current safety update. When on a self-drive or guided safari, always try to get to your destination or accommodation as early as you can. Avoid driving at night or walking alone in the dark corners of the city or remote areas.
You should also avoid drinking tap water –find bottled drinking water. Try as much as you can not to eat roadside foods/cold foods. Walk in the best restaurant or have a meal in your respective hotel facility.
How early should you book a trip to Uganda?
Ensure that you have booked your trip as early as you can. If you are targeting to go to see mountain gorillas, then ensure that you have your permits booked at least 2-6 months in advance.
Cost of a safari
The cost of traveling to Uganda varies depending on a number of factors. These include the cost of accommodation, transportation, and travel styles (budget, midrange, and luxury). Rooftop tent Car Rental Uganda is available for those who wish to travel around in style and at an affordable cost as you will have your transport and accommodation covered in one package.
Money & transactions
When traveling to Uganda, be aware that the Uganda shilling (UGX) is the local currency used. You will need cash to ease your transactions when on the ground or when you want to tip. Take note that tipping isn’t a must-do but often, visitors do it out of will and there is no exact amount to tip. You can be guided by the tour operator on where to exchange your dollars or pounds for Uganda shillings.
Language spoken
Uganda is home to about 56 tribes and over 70 languages are spoken. However, English is a unifying language. On a guided road trip, you can be assigned to an English-speaking driver guide but for those who want a specific language-speaking guide appart from English, there is a cost to meet. When in Uganda, you should also consider dressing decently –in a respectful manner.