Uganda
Travel Guide
Everything you need to know before embarking on your East African adventure — from entry requirements to the best time to trek gorillas.
Why Visit Uganda
Uganda is one of Africa's most extraordinary and undervisited destinations. Often called the Pearl of Africa, a name coined by Sir Winston Churchill, Uganda rewards those who seek it out with experiences that are simply unavailable anywhere else on Earth. Within its compact borders you will find more primate species than any other country, the world's most powerful waterfall, vast savannahs teeming with wildlife, and some of Africa's most biodiverse rainforests.
Unlike the crowded safari circuits of Kenya or Tanzania, Uganda offers intimacy. Game drives, gorilla treks, and chimpanzee tracking experiences here feel personal, unhurried, and profoundly moving. The country is also one of the safest destinations in East Africa for international travellers, with a warm, hospitable culture and a well-developed tourism infrastructure in key areas.
Uganda's diverse landscapes range from savannah to ancient rainforest
Capital City
Kampala. The main international gateway is Entebbe International Airport, approximately 40 km from Kampala.
Official Language
English and Swahili. English is widely spoken throughout the tourism industry.
Currency
Ugandan Shilling (UGX). US Dollars are widely accepted at lodges and for park fees.
Time Zone
East Africa Time (EAT), UTC+3. Uganda does not observe daylight saving time.
Population
Approximately 48 million people from over 50 distinct ethnic groups, creating a richly diverse cultural landscape.
Size
236,040 km2, slightly smaller than the United Kingdom. Much of the country is accessible within a few hours drive.
Best Time to Visit Uganda
Uganda can be visited year-round, but the timing of your trip will influence the quality of gorilla trekking, game viewing, and overall comfort. Uganda has two dry seasons and two wet seasons each year, and understanding these patterns will help you make the most of your safari.
| Month | Season | Gorilla Trekking | Wildlife Viewing | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Dry | Excellent | Excellent | Low |
| February | Dry | Excellent | Excellent | Low |
| March | Short Wet Season | Good | Good | Moderate |
| April | Long Wet Season | Fair | Fair | High |
| May | Long Wet Season | Fair | Fair | High |
| June | Dry | Excellent | Excellent | Low |
| July | Dry | Excellent | Excellent | Low |
| August | Dry | Excellent | Excellent | Low |
| September | Dry | Excellent | Excellent | Low |
| October | Short Wet Season | Good | Good | Moderate |
| November | Short Wet Season | Good | Good | Moderate |
| December | Dry | Excellent | Excellent | Low |
The two main dry seasons — December to February and June to September — are the most popular and recommended times to visit. Trails are drier, gorilla tracking is less strenuous, and game viewing is at its best as animals congregate around water sources. These periods are also when permits are in highest demand, so early booking is strongly advised.
Gorilla permits sell out months in advance during peak dry seasons. We recommend booking your permit at least 6 months ahead if you are planning travel between June and September or in December.
Uganda's National Parks
Uganda is home to ten national parks, each offering a distinct ecosystem and wildlife experience. The parks we feature most frequently in our itineraries are the following:
Each of these parks can be combined into multi-day itineraries that offer a full spectrum of Uganda's wildlife and landscapes. Wander and Wonder Tours specialises in crafting seamless journeys that connect these parks with the right balance of activities and comfort.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is widely regarded as one of the most profound wildlife encounters on Earth. Standing a few metres from a mountain gorilla family in their natural habitat — watching the silverback move through ancient forest, the juveniles tumble and play, the mothers nurse their young — is an experience that stays with visitors for a lifetime.
A mountain gorilla in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda
The Gorilla Permit
Each trekking permit allows one hour in the presence of a habituated gorilla family. Permits in Uganda are priced at USD 700 per person (subject to change by the Uganda Wildlife Authority). Only 8 visitors are allowed per gorilla family per day, ensuring a low-impact, intimate experience.
What to Expect
Treks begin at 8:00 AM from the park headquarters. The duration of the trek varies from 1 to 6 hours depending on where the gorilla family is located that morning. A team of experienced trackers and rangers guides each group safely through the forest.
Minimum Age
Trekkers must be at least 15 years of age. Children under 15 are not permitted on gorilla treks.
Fitness Level
Moderate to high fitness is recommended. Treks involve hiking steep, forested terrain for several hours.
Group Size
A maximum of 8 visitors per gorilla family group per day to minimise disturbance.
Photography
Photography is permitted. Flash photography is not allowed in the gorillas' presence. Video cameras are welcome.
Rules
Maintain a minimum distance of 7 metres at all times. No trekking if you have a cold, flu, or infection. Masks may be required.
Conservation
Permit revenue directly funds mountain gorilla conservation and supports local community development programmes.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale
Kibale National Park in western Uganda contains the highest density of primates of any habitat in Africa, with thirteen primate species recorded. The park is most celebrated for its large and habituated chimpanzee communities, offering one of the most reliable chimpanzee tracking experiences on the continent.
Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale takes place twice daily: once at 8:00 AM and once at 2:00 PM. Each session lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours and is guided by a UWA ranger and an experienced tracker. Permits are priced at USD 250 per person for the standard tracking experience, or USD 220 for the habituation experience, which allows a full day with a semi-habituated community.
Beyond chimpanzees, Kibale is an exceptional destination for bird watching, with over 370 bird species recorded. The nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary offers a community-run guided walk through papyrus swamps to spot the Papyrus Gonolek, Great Blue Turaco, and many more species.
A visit to Kibale pairs perfectly with Queen Elizabeth National Park for a multi-day safari combining primates, savannah wildlife, and a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel — one of our most popular itinerary combinations.
Practical Information
Planning a safari to Uganda involves a few essential logistics. Here is what you need to know before you travel.
Visas
Most nationalities including UK, US, EU, and Canadian citizens require a visa to enter Uganda. E-visas are available online at immigration.go.ug. The single-entry tourist visa costs approximately USD 50.
Passport Validity
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Uganda.
Getting There
Entebbe International Airport (EBB) is the main international gateway. Direct or one-stop flights operate from London Heathrow, Amsterdam, Dubai, Nairobi, and other major hubs.
Getting Around
Most safaris use private 4WD safari vehicles with pop-up roofs. Internal charter flights are available between Entebbe and remote parks. We arrange all transport for our clients.
Electricity
Uganda uses British-style three-pin plugs (Type G) and 240V electricity. Lodges in parks typically have limited generator hours; bring a power bank for remote camps.
Mobile and Internet
Mobile coverage is good in Kampala and major towns. Remote parks have limited or no coverage. Most lodges offer WiFi but speeds vary. Consider a local SIM card (MTN or Airtel) on arrival.
Health and Safety
Uganda is a safe destination for most international travellers when the right precautions are taken. We recommend consulting a travel health professional or GP at least 6 to 8 weeks before departure.
Yellow Fever
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into Uganda. This is mandatory and enforced at the border.
Malaria
Malaria is present in Uganda. Anti-malarial medication is strongly recommended. Consult your GP on the most appropriate prophylaxis for you.
Other Vaccinations
Recommended vaccinations include Typhoid, Hepatitis A and B, Tetanus, Meningitis, and Rabies for extended stays.
Altitude
Bwindi sits at approximately 2,300 m above sea level. Some visitors experience mild altitude effects. Acclimatise carefully and stay well hydrated.
Water
Drink only bottled or properly purified water. Lodges provide drinking water; avoid tap water and ice from unknown sources.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation is essential. Medical facilities outside Kampala are limited. Ensure your policy includes emergency evacuation.
Packing Guide
Packing well for a Uganda safari ensures you are comfortable on the trail and in the field. The following guide covers the essentials for gorilla trekking, game drives, and general travel.
Clothing
Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers in neutral, earthy tones (khaki, olive, brown). Avoid bright colours or white which can startle wildlife. Bring a lightweight waterproof jacket for rain and a fleece or light jacket for cool mornings in the forest. Shorts and lighter clothing for evenings at the lodge.
Footwear
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with ankle support are essential for gorilla trekking and forest walks. Break them in thoroughly before your trip. Pack a pair of comfortable sandals or shoes for evenings and lodge use.
Sun Protection
High SPF sunscreen, UV-protective sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat for open game drives and boat safaris.
Insect Repellent
DEET-based repellent (at least 40%) is recommended. Apply to all exposed skin, particularly during dusk and dawn. Bring enough for the full trip.
Camera Equipment
A camera with zoom capability for wildlife and a separate wide-angle for landscapes. Extra batteries and memory cards. No flash for gorilla encounters.
Day Pack
A lightweight day pack for gorilla and chimpanzee treks to carry water, snacks, rain gear, and your camera. Avoid large rigid bags on trails.
Luggage
Soft-sided duffel bags are recommended for safari vehicles. Hard-shell suitcases are impractical in bush vehicles and on charter flights.
Medication
Any prescription medications in adequate supply. A small travel first aid kit, including oral rehydration salts, blister plasters, and antihistamines.
Your Wander and Wonder Tours consultant will provide a full pre-departure information pack specific to your itinerary, including exact recommendations for the parks and activities on your programme.
Begin Your Uganda Safari
Let us plan every detail of your experience. Contact our team or use our Tour Builder to tell us what you envision.
Uganda
Travel Guide
Everything you need to know before embarking on your East African adventure — from entry requirements to the best time to trek gorillas.
Why Visit Uganda
Uganda is one of Africa's most extraordinary and undervisited destinations. Often called the Pearl of Africa, a name coined by Sir Winston Churchill, Uganda rewards those who seek it out with experiences that are simply unavailable anywhere else on Earth. Within its compact borders you will find more primate species than any other country, the world's most powerful waterfall, vast savannahs teeming with wildlife, and some of Africa's most biodiverse rainforests.
Unlike the crowded safari circuits of Kenya or Tanzania, Uganda offers intimacy. Game drives, gorilla treks, and chimpanzee tracking experiences here feel personal, unhurried, and profoundly moving. The country is also one of the safest destinations in East Africa for international travellers, with a warm, hospitable culture and a well-developed tourism infrastructure in key areas.
Uganda's diverse landscapes range from savannah to ancient rainforest
Capital City
Kampala. The main international gateway is Entebbe International Airport, approximately 40 km from Kampala.
Official Language
English and Swahili. English is widely spoken throughout the tourism industry.
Currency
Ugandan Shilling (UGX). US Dollars are widely accepted at lodges and for park fees.
Time Zone
East Africa Time (EAT), UTC+3. Uganda does not observe daylight saving time.
Population
Approximately 48 million people from over 50 distinct ethnic groups, creating a richly diverse cultural landscape.
Size
236,040 km2, slightly smaller than the United Kingdom. Much of the country is accessible within a few hours drive.
Best Time to Visit Uganda
Uganda can be visited year-round, but the timing of your trip will influence the quality of gorilla trekking, game viewing, and overall comfort. Uganda has two dry seasons and two wet seasons each year, and understanding these patterns will help you make the most of your safari.
| Month | Season | Gorilla Trekking | Wildlife Viewing | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Dry | Excellent | Excellent | Low |
| February | Dry | Excellent | Excellent | Low |
| March | Short Wet Season | Good | Good | Moderate |
| April | Long Wet Season | Fair | Fair | High |
| May | Long Wet Season | Fair | Fair | High |
| June | Dry | Excellent | Excellent | Low |
| July | Dry | Excellent | Excellent | Low |
| August | Dry | Excellent | Excellent | Low |
| September | Dry | Excellent | Excellent | Low |
| October | Short Wet Season | Good | Good | Moderate |
| November | Short Wet Season | Good | Good | Moderate |
| December | Dry | Excellent | Excellent | Low |
The two main dry seasons — December to February and June to September — are the most popular and recommended times to visit. Trails are drier, gorilla tracking is less strenuous, and game viewing is at its best as animals congregate around water sources. These periods are also when permits are in highest demand, so early booking is strongly advised.
Gorilla permits sell out months in advance during peak dry seasons. We recommend booking your permit at least 6 months ahead if you are planning travel between June and September or in December.
Uganda's National Parks
Uganda is home to ten national parks, each offering a distinct ecosystem and wildlife experience. The parks we feature most frequently in our itineraries are the following:
Each of these parks can be combined into multi-day itineraries that offer a full spectrum of Uganda's wildlife and landscapes. Wander and Wonder Tours specialises in crafting seamless journeys that connect these parks with the right balance of activities and comfort.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is widely regarded as one of the most profound wildlife encounters on Earth. Standing a few metres from a mountain gorilla family in their natural habitat — watching the silverback move through ancient forest, the juveniles tumble and play, the mothers nurse their young — is an experience that stays with visitors for a lifetime.
A mountain gorilla in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda
The Gorilla Permit
Each trekking permit allows one hour in the presence of a habituated gorilla family. Permits in Uganda are priced at USD 700 per person (subject to change by the Uganda Wildlife Authority). Only 8 visitors are allowed per gorilla family per day, ensuring a low-impact, intimate experience.
What to Expect
Treks begin at 8:00 AM from the park headquarters. The duration of the trek varies from 1 to 6 hours depending on where the gorilla family is located that morning. A team of experienced trackers and rangers guides each group safely through the forest.
Minimum Age
Trekkers must be at least 15 years of age. Children under 15 are not permitted on gorilla treks.
Fitness Level
Moderate to high fitness is recommended. Treks involve hiking steep, forested terrain for several hours.
Group Size
A maximum of 8 visitors per gorilla family group per day to minimise disturbance.
Photography
Photography is permitted. Flash photography is not allowed in the gorillas' presence. Video cameras are welcome.
Rules
Maintain a minimum distance of 7 metres at all times. No trekking if you have a cold, flu, or infection. Masks may be required.
Conservation
Permit revenue directly funds mountain gorilla conservation and supports local community development programmes.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale
Kibale National Park in western Uganda contains the highest density of primates of any habitat in Africa, with thirteen primate species recorded. The park is most celebrated for its large and habituated chimpanzee communities, offering one of the most reliable chimpanzee tracking experiences on the continent.
Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale takes place twice daily: once at 8:00 AM and once at 2:00 PM. Each session lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours and is guided by a UWA ranger and an experienced tracker. Permits are priced at USD 250 per person for the standard tracking experience, or USD 220 for the habituation experience, which allows a full day with a semi-habituated community.
Beyond chimpanzees, Kibale is an exceptional destination for bird watching, with over 370 bird species recorded. The nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary offers a community-run guided walk through papyrus swamps to spot the Papyrus Gonolek, Great Blue Turaco, and many more species.
A visit to Kibale pairs perfectly with Queen Elizabeth National Park for a multi-day safari combining primates, savannah wildlife, and a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel — one of our most popular itinerary combinations.
Practical Information
Planning a safari to Uganda involves a few essential logistics. Here is what you need to know before you travel.
Visas
Most nationalities including UK, US, EU, and Canadian citizens require a visa to enter Uganda. E-visas are available online at immigration.go.ug. The single-entry tourist visa costs approximately USD 50.
Passport Validity
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Uganda.
Getting There
Entebbe International Airport (EBB) is the main international gateway. Direct or one-stop flights operate from London Heathrow, Amsterdam, Dubai, Nairobi, and other major hubs.
Getting Around
Most safaris use private 4WD safari vehicles with pop-up roofs. Internal charter flights are available between Entebbe and remote parks. We arrange all transport for our clients.
Electricity
Uganda uses British-style three-pin plugs (Type G) and 240V electricity. Lodges in parks typically have limited generator hours; bring a power bank for remote camps.
Mobile and Internet
Mobile coverage is good in Kampala and major towns. Remote parks have limited or no coverage. Most lodges offer WiFi but speeds vary. Consider a local SIM card (MTN or Airtel) on arrival.
Health and Safety
Uganda is a safe destination for most international travellers when the right precautions are taken. We recommend consulting a travel health professional or GP at least 6 to 8 weeks before departure.
Yellow Fever
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into Uganda. This is mandatory and enforced at the border.
Malaria
Malaria is present in Uganda. Anti-malarial medication is strongly recommended. Consult your GP on the most appropriate prophylaxis for you.
Other Vaccinations
Recommended vaccinations include Typhoid, Hepatitis A and B, Tetanus, Meningitis, and Rabies for extended stays.
Altitude
Bwindi sits at approximately 2,300 m above sea level. Some visitors experience mild altitude effects. Acclimatise carefully and stay well hydrated.
Water
Drink only bottled or properly purified water. Lodges provide drinking water; avoid tap water and ice from unknown sources.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation is essential. Medical facilities outside Kampala are limited. Ensure your policy includes emergency evacuation.
Packing Guide
Packing well for a Uganda safari ensures you are comfortable on the trail and in the field. The following guide covers the essentials for gorilla trekking, game drives, and general travel.
Clothing
Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers in neutral, earthy tones (khaki, olive, brown). Avoid bright colours or white which can startle wildlife. Bring a lightweight waterproof jacket for rain and a fleece or light jacket for cool mornings in the forest. Shorts and lighter clothing for evenings at the lodge.
Footwear
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with ankle support are essential for gorilla trekking and forest walks. Break them in thoroughly before your trip. Pack a pair of comfortable sandals or shoes for evenings and lodge use.
Sun Protection
High SPF sunscreen, UV-protective sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat for open game drives and boat safaris.
Insect Repellent
DEET-based repellent (at least 40%) is recommended. Apply to all exposed skin, particularly during dusk and dawn. Bring enough for the full trip.
Camera Equipment
A camera with zoom capability for wildlife and a separate wide-angle for landscapes. Extra batteries and memory cards. No flash for gorilla encounters.
Day Pack
A lightweight day pack for gorilla and chimpanzee treks to carry water, snacks, rain gear, and your camera. Avoid large rigid bags on trails.
Luggage
Soft-sided duffel bags are recommended for safari vehicles. Hard-shell suitcases are impractical in bush vehicles and on charter flights.
Medication
Any prescription medications in adequate supply. A small travel first aid kit, including oral rehydration salts, blister plasters, and antihistamines.
Your Wander and Wonder Tours consultant will provide a full pre-departure information pack specific to your itinerary, including exact recommendations for the parks and activities on your programme.
Begin Your Uganda Safari
Let us plan every detail of your experience. Contact our team or use our Tour Builder to tell us what you envision.