It may be all about the gorillas for some, but for others, it’s about the mysteries of the forest and the heart-warming locals.
East Africa is famous for its forests – and Uganda is home to one of the lushest. People are drawn here from all over the world for the breath-taking wildlife and world-class safaris. Perhaps the most exclusive and exhilarating of these trips are the gorilla treks, which are known to bring tears to the eyes of travellers. But breathless tourists are never far from the equally rewarding experience of the Ugandan people.
Uganda travel highlights
Count the species at Lake Mburo
The national park is home to a staggering diversity of plant and animal life, including eland, zebra, hippos and crocs to name just a few.
Penetrate the impenetrable at Bwindi
Despite the name, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest has trails leading to a luxury lodge, a waterfall paradise, and of course, the shy and threatened mountain gorillas.
See which way the water drains at the Ugandan equator line
Stop off along the road at the point which marks the centre of the earth, and discover if the water drains clockwise or anticlockwise.
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Local culture of Uganda
Geography & environment
Shopping guide to Uganda
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Food & drink in Uganda
Further reading
Uganda travel FAQs
Visas are required by most nationalities, including the EU, US and Australia. Visas are available at point of entry to most nationalities. Some nationalities are required to obtain visas in advance - you MUST check before departure. If you plan to purchase your visas on arrival, you will need new (post 2003), clean American dollars cash and the cost is around US$100. When on one of our gorilla itineraries visiting Rwanda, you may require a double entry visa to Uganda. This is dependent on the border guard of the day and can be easily purchased on re entry from Rwanda for nationalities which qualify for visa on arrival. Please allow US$100.
Tipping is not customary or expected of you in Uganda, however consider the low wages of the locals, you may choose to add 10% to your bill at restaurants of leave some spare change for other services.
You’ll be able to access the internet easily in major cities and towns, however don’t expect to have any access in rural and remote places.
You’ll have good mobile coverage in major centres but not outside these areas. Remember to activate global roaming with your provider if you wish to use your mobile while traveling.
Most toilets are squat toilets, however you may have Western-style toilets in some hotels and upmarket restaurants. Soap and toilet paper aren’t always provided so you may like to carry some with you.
- Can of soft drink = 1,500 UGX
- Bottle of beer = 2,500 UGX
- Street snack = 3,000-4,000 UGX
- Meal at a cafe = 10,000-20,000 UGX
Drinking tap water is not considered safe in Uganda. For environmental reasons, avoid buying bottled water and bring a bottle or canteen with you. Ask your leader where you can access filters to refill your supply, or carry your own purification tablets with you.
You may be able to use your credit card at some hotels and restaurants in the capital, but you’ll need cash for most local purchases.
Uganda has plenty of ATMs in its large cities but not in rural and remote areas.
Yes. All peregrine passengers are required to purchase travel insurance prior to their trip. Your insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day.
For a current list of public holidays go to:
http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Uganda/public-holidays