Getting to Uganda

Entebbe International Airport, which lies 40 Km from the capital Kampala, is serviced by a number of international airlines, including SN Brussels, British Airways, South African Airways, Kenya Airways, Air Tanzania, Rwandair Express, Egypt Air and Ethiopian Airlines. Uganda can also be reached overland from Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania.

On Arrival

Customs and immigration officials are polite and efficient, and a visa- for those who require one- can be purchased on the sport at Entebbe International Airport or at any overland boarder. Foreign exchange and ATM facilities are available at the airport, which is also serviced by several shops and restaurants. Transfer from Entebbe International Airport to Kampala can be arranged on request with any of the tour operator based in or around the area. Local time is GMT +3.

Health

A certificate of yellow fever vaccination is required. All visitors should take malaria prophylactic drugs. It is advisable to drink bottled rather than tap water.

Money

The unit of currency is the Uganda shillings. The US dollar is traditionally the hard currency of preference, but Euro and Pound sterling are also widely accepted. Hard currency cash can be exchanged for local currency at bank and private bureau de change in all large towns, but travelers’ cheques are not widely accepted outside Kampala. Local currency can be drawn against a Visa and other major credit cards at selected ATMs in Kampala, at Entebbe International Airport, and in a few other towns.

Language

Educated Ugandans area generally fluent in English, which is the official language of the 30 plus different indigenous languages.

When to Visit

Uganda can be visited at any time, though mountains hikes, gorilla tracking and other forest walks are more challenging during the rains which generally peak over mid-September to November and March to May.

What to Wear

Day time temperatures are generally warm to hot, so bring lots of light clothing. Evenings are cooler, especially at high attitudes, so carry a couple of light sweaters too. Those who intend to hike on the mountains will be exposed to alpine temperatures and should pack accordingly. Solid walking shoes and sturdy clothing are ideal for forest walks. Don’t forget to bring a hut, sunglasses and a waterproof jacket.

What to bring

A valid passport is mandatory, and visa requirements should be checked before you travel. To make the most of the game reserves and national parks, a camera, binoculars and field guides. Photographers will need a zoom lens for wildlife. Printing developing and printing film is available in all major towns. Toiletries and other essentials can be bought in the cities.

Driving

Driving is on the left side. Visitors without experience of African roads are advised to organize a vehicle with a driver rather than self drive.

Internet Communication: Internet is widely spread so you cam make use of internet café’s but bringing a phone to can help easy your mid range communication problems.

Food and Drinks

Tourist-oriented hotels and restaurants serve very good western styled meals, while a wider range of cuisines being available in the capital and some other large towns. Local restaurants serve Ugandan dishes.

What to buy

A wide selection of local handcraft area available at souvenirs