5 Things You Need To Know Before You Visit Uganda!
Uganda, or the “Pearl of Africa,” is usually not the first place most people think of when planning a trip to Africa. I had multiple great off the beaten path experiences on this trip. These are 5 things you need to know before visiting Uganda to ensure you also have a great experience, just like I did.
You can also see some of my favorite photos from the trip on my photography page or on Instagram, and additional posts: Ultimate Guide to Gorilla Trekking in Uganda.
Travel tip #1: Small group tour is the way to go!
The main draw in Uganda is definitely the Bwindi gorillas. I initially looked at just doing a gorilla trek (3 days) and leaving Uganda or doing a safari somewhere else. The price was pretty much the same as doing a small group tour (8 days). The itinerary covered several places in Uganda and even a half day in Rwanda (Kigali Genocide Memorial). Aside from the gorillas, there were other experiences that made Uganda fun – category 5 whitewater rafting on the Nile, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park, visiting the equator, seeing lions and elephants up close, fresh fruit markets. I used G Adventures for this trip – which I recommend. My group had only ten people (plus two guides), and were split into two vehicles. It was a very intimate experience. Everyone arrived solo and we quickly became friends.
Travel tip #2: When to go
The second of 5 things you need to know before visiting Uganda are the seasons. You should visit during the dry season. There are two: June-August and December-February. The prices will be a bit higher, but wildlife viewing is better, and trekking conditions are easier. Also, Uganda is located on the equator! Due to the higher elevation – even with the heat – the climate is generally very pleasant.
Travel tip #4: Pack for different weather scenarios
I went through lots of different terrain and weather: cold higher elevation mountain areas, sprawling arid savanna, and lush jungles. Check out my post on gorilla trekking for more details on how to prepare.
Travel tip #4: You need a visa.
Do not wait until you arrive. Do it online well in advance. One person in the group had a lot of hoops to jump through because he thought he could get the Uganda visa on arrival. This person almost could not join the group. It is always the traveler’s responsibility to learn the rules and customs of where they’re visiting.
Since the tour I booked included Uganda and Rwanda – I got the East African Tourist Visa – it includes Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya. You have to apply with the country you enter first. If you’re a U.S. Citizen, start with the State Department.
Travel tip #5: Health preparations
- Yellow Fever: Proof of the Yellow Fever vaccine is required for entry into Uganda. Always best to get these early in case to have any soreness or other reactions. If you have this option, get the live vaccine. It is valid for 10 years, and there are a number of countries in Africa, Central, and South America that require it. When I returned home to the U.S., CBP saw I was returning from Uganda/Rwanda and asked about my Yellow Fever vaccine card. I had to look around a bit for this vaccine, my primary doctor did not offer it, neither did CVS or a few other places. I was able to get mine at Walgreens Pharmacy, it was a better price than Passport Health.
- Malaria pills: This is easy to find and my doctor prescribed it for me. Once a day pill, itβs recommended you take it the same period of each day (example: mornings). Expect to pay out of pocket as both Yellow Fever and Malaria pills are pretty much only for travelers, and will likely not be covered by your insurance.
