Uganda

Uganda Travel Guide

Overview

Parks & Reserves

Wildlife

Birds

Best Time To Visit

Weather & Climate

Popular Routes

Getting There

Malaria & Vaccinations

Safety

Uganda offers a captivating array of wildlife experiences, from dense forests to expansive savannahs. Essential to any visit is gorilla trekking, which you can do in the lush Bwindi Impenetrable or Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks. For chimpanzee enthusiasts, Kibale National Park and other areas are prime spotting locations. If you’re drawn to the classic savannah safari, Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, and the secluded Kidepo Valley National Parks offer excellent opportunities for wildlife observation.

Rates (USD)

Best Time To Go

High Season

Size

Among the Rare Locations to Spot Endangered Mountain Gorillas

Merge Primate Encounters with a Traditional Savannah Safari

Well-rounded Mix of Vehicle, Boat, and Walking Activities

Superb Birdwatching Opportunities

Picturesque Landscapes

The Big Five Are Less Commonly Spotted Than in Other Safari Destinations

Long Drive Times on Rough Roads Between Parks

Bwindi Impenetrable NP

- Gorilla trekking

Queen Elizabeth NP

- Boat and classic safaris

Murchison Falls NP

- Boat and classic safaris

Kibale NP

- Chimpanzee trekking

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Notable Birds in Uganda

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Bird Species

550+

Migratory Birds

Oct to Apr

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Safari Tours to Uganda

12-Day Best of Kenya Tanzania Luxury Safari

$5127 to

$11424 pp (USD)

Botswana:

Private tour,

Luxury,

You Visit: Nairobi, Lake Naivasha, three days Masai Mara, three days Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater & two days Amboseli.

Things to know before traveling to the destination

General

Visas

Vaccinations

Photo Gallery of Uganda

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Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions

Exploring the wild through a safari adventure is an exhilarating experience that brings you closer to nature’s most fascinating wildlife. Whether you opt for a guided tour with an experienced professional or decide to navigate the trails on a self-drive journey, safety is paramount to ensure an enjoyable and incident-free adventure. Here are some essential safety guidelines and tips to help you navigate your safari safely:

Adherence to Professional Guidance: Always prioritize the instructions and guidance provided by your safari guide. Their expertise and experience are invaluable in navigating the wilderness safely.
Be Quiet Around Animals: Animals can get scared or upset if it's too noisy. Try to be as quiet as possible when you're near them.
Vehicle Conduct: During game drives, remain inside the vehicle unless you're in a location where exiting is expressly permitted. Refrain from standing up, leaning out of windows, or sitting on the vehicle's roof to avoid attracting undue attention from wildlife.
Cautious Proximity: On a self-drive safari, maintain a safe distance from animals. Should they exhibit signs of disturbance, increase your distance immediately. Specifically, avoid driving too closely to elephants, particularly around females with their offspring.
Walking Safaris: If participating in a walking safari, stay in close formation near your guide, ideally in a single file, to minimize disruption to the environment and maintain group safety.
Avoid Provocative Behavior: Never run or jog in wildlife areas as it may trigger predatory behavior. Also, ensure not to obstruct a hippopotamus's path to water, as they may charge if they feel their access is threatened.
Food Storage: Do not leave food unattended in your tent or lodging area, as it can attract animals.
Protection Against Insects: In the evenings, cover up arms and legs and use insect repellent to guard against mosquito bites. This is also crucial for preventing diseases transmitted by insects.
Appropriate Clothing and Accessories: Wear a hat and apply sunscreen to protect against the sun, and ensure to stay hydrated by drinking water regularly. Opt for clothing that is not brightly colored or heavily scented, especially during walking safaris, to blend more seamlessly into the environment. In areas known for tsetse flies, avoid wearing dark colors like black or navy, as these colors attract them.
Temperature Considerations: Early morning drives can be particularly chilly, especially in open vehicles, so bringing along warm clothing is advisable.

Cities & Urban Areas: Safety Precautions

Traveling through Africa offers an enriching experience filled with breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and unparalleled wildlife encounters. While it’s generally safe, especially on organized tours or safaris, navigating urban environments requires a bit of savvy to ensure your trip remains worry-free. Here are some straightforward tips to keep in mind, whether you’re exploring bustling metropolises or serene landscapes:

Seek Local Insights: Upon arrival, your hotel can be a goldmine of information. Ask the staff whether it's safe to stroll around the neighborhood and for any specific advice on local safety norms.
When exploring cities, it’s wise to leave your jewelry behind and store any valuables in your hotel’s safety deposit box. This simple act can significantly reduce unwanted attention.
Try to avoid wandering alone in large cities, especially if you’re not familiar with the area. There's safety in numbers, and it's often more fun to explore with company.
Once the sun sets, it’s best to avoid walking in the city. Opt for a taxi for nighttime travel, even for short distances.
Be cautious of strangers approaching you on the street, as they might not always have the best intentions. It's okay to be polite but reserved.
ATM Awareness: When withdrawing money, be mindful of your surroundings. If something feels off or if there are loiterers nearby, it’s better to find another ATM.
When driving in urban areas, keep your car doors locked and windows up to deter opportunistic crim
Visible Valuables: Never leave items in your car in plain view, especially in busy areas. If you must leave something in the car, ensure it’s tucked away out of sight to avoid tempting potential thieves.

General Travel Safety Precautions

Embarking on an African safari promises an adventure of a lifetime, showcasing the continent’s rich wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse cultures. While safaris are widely considered safe, especially those organized through reputable tour operators, it’s prudent to take certain precautions to ensure a smooth and secure experience. Here are some essential safety tips to consider:

Invest in Comprehensive Insurance: Make sure you have robust travel and health insurance coverage. This is crucial for peace of mind and protection against unforeseen events, from health issues to trip cancellations.
Stay Document-Ready: Double-check the passport and visa requirements for your destination well ahead of your trip. It's important to ensure your travel documents meet all entry criteria.
Health Precautions: Consult with a healthcare provider for recommended vaccinations and antimalarial medications. Packing an effective insect repellent, preferably one containing DEET, is also a must to ward off mosquitoes.
Secure Your Belongings: Use locks on all your luggage and keep valuables, including travel documents and electronics, in your carry-on. Consider using hotel safes or secure storage options for important items.
Backup Important Documents: Make digital copies of crucial travel documents, such as your passport, visa, and insurance policy, and store them securely online for easy access in case of loss or theft.
Dress Appropriately: Pack clothing that will protect you from the sun and mosquitoes, and remember to bring warm layers for early morning game drives in open vehicles, which can be quite chilly.
Be Flight-Savvy: Check luggage allowances for all flights, including any domestic connections, to avoid surprises or additional fees at the airport.
Avoid Nighttime Driving: If you're on a self-drive safari, plan your routes to avoid driving after dark. Reduced visibility and unfamiliar terrain can increase the risk of accidents.
Safeguard Your Valuables: Utilize the safety deposit box provided by your accommodation to secure your valuables and travel documents.
Interactions with Authorities: Always approach interactions with local police and military personnel with respect and politeness. If faced with an uncomfortable situation, such as being asked for a bribe, maintaining a calm and friendly demeanor can often defuse the situation.

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Uganda Travel Guide

Uganda

Overview

Parks & Reserves

Wildlife

Birds

Best Time To Visit

Weather & Climate

Popular Routes

Getting There

Malaria & Vaccinations

Safety

Notable Birds in Uganda

Bird Species

Migratory Birds

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Safari Tours to Uganda

12-Day Best of Kenya Tanzania Luxury Safari

$5127 to

$11424 pp (USD)

Botswana:

Private tour,

Luxury,

Things to know before traveling to the destination

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Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions

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