8 September, 2021
Tourism in Uganda is focused on Uganda’s landscape and wildlife. With its magnificent variety of colors, brilliant life, insects, birds, reptiles, beasts, flora and fauna, Uganda was named the Pearl of Africa by British statesman and writer, Winston Churchill. Uganda is an incredible and special Country with the happiest people in the East African region. Visiting this Country is truly an adventure – however, we invite guests to keep a few things in mind if they are to enjoy their stay in the Peal of Africa. This TRAFEKA travel guide will help make your Uganda expedition a success.
Uganda is one of the safest Countries to travel to in Africa. However, we advise travelers to stay vigilant and cautious. Look out for petty criminals like pick-pockets, especially when visiting public places and landmarks.
You can travel to Uganda all year! The best time for Uganda safaris is during the dry seasons; from June to August and from December to February. During the dryer seasons, wildlife is easier to spot. There is no peak season for traveling to Uganda.
Uganda uses the Shilling as its currency and happens to be a cash country. Dollars, Euros and Pounds are also accepted by City Hotels and Uganda Wildlife Authority for most activities and national park entry fees. However, it's also important to always have Shillings on you during your Uganda trip.
There is a general non-Tipping culture in Uganda, though in some circles like the tour guides, might expect a small tip after, for example a tour, game drive or a nature walk, otherwise, you don’t have to tip if you don’t want to. Should you however, feel the need to tip, it would be better you give that tip in Uganda Shillings. This is so because the locals have limited access to exchange tips in a foreign currency.
Generally, Ugandans are a friendly and happy people. The 2021 Happiness Survey put Uganda and its people as the happiest in the East African Region. It is therefore impolite to just say ‘Hi!’ So instead, we recommend you use ‘How are you?’ Even the children will greet you with a ‘How are you?’ In some cases, they will even want to touch you as they wear a big smile.
In Uganda a Rolex is not just a watch, but a snack/street food as well. A Rolex is a classic Ugandan street food - that combines an egg omelet and veggies wrapped in a chapati. This single-portion dish is quick to make, and it can be bought almost everywhere along the street. You can eat it at any time of the day; be it breakfast, lunch, supper meal or just as a snack. It derives its name “rolex” from the way it’s prepared; a chapati and omelette rolled together (rolled eggs).
Uganda is a conservative society; so generally, it’s better to avoid short skirts or shorts if you intend to visit local communities. For women it’s best to bring an over the knee skirt because it’s impolite to wear trousers or shorts while visiting some local communities. You can however wear shorts during day activities like hikes, safaris or boat tours, no problem. Pack good hiking shoes for your chimpanzee or gorilla trekking. We also, recommend that you wear long trousers and thin long-sleeved shirts to protect your arms and legs from scratches.
English is the National language and is widely spoken however; Swahili, Luganda, and many other local languages are spoken. All the people you will interact with in hotels, lodges, airports and your driver guides are fluent in English while some are multi-lingual; speaking fluent Spanish, French, German, Italian and Mandarin among other languages.
Driving is on the left side. Visitors without experience driving on Ugandan roads are advised to organize a vehicle with a driver rather than self- drive. Book a Safe, Reliable and Affordable Rental Car in East Africa with TRAFEKA. Whether you want to hire a budget or luxury vehicle for a special event, business or pleasure, there is a solution for every occasion and every budget.
Should you need more information about Uganda, please just get in touch. Our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to help with planning your trip to Uganda - the pearl of Africa.
