About Uganda
Uganda is an East African country bordered by Kenya in the East, South Sudan in the North, and Democratic Republic of the Congo in the west, Rwanda in the Southwest and Tanzania in the South. Uganda’s total land area is 241,559 sq km with Kampala as its capital city.
Best Time to Visit Uganda
Uganda can be visited at any time, though some activities such as mountain hikes, gorilla tracking and other forest walks are more challenging during the rains, which generally peak over mid-September to November and March to May.
Health/Insurance
A certificate of yellow fever vaccination is required, all visitors should take malaria prophylactic drugs and it is advisable to drink bottled rather than tap water. To avoid any inconveniences, take malaria vaccination prior to travel.
What to wear: Clothing
Daytime temperatures are generally warm to hot, so bring yourself light clothings. Carry a couple of light sweaters too since evenings are cooler, especially at high altitudes. Solid walking shoes and sturdy clothing are ideal for forest walks. Also bring with you, a hat, sunglasses and a waterproof jacket.
Visas to Uganda
A valid passport is mandatory. Single entry visas are available without difficulty at Ugandan missions abroad, or on arrival at Entebbe or at land borders into Uganda. It is advisable to check visa requirements and obtain a visa before travel.
Official Language
English is the National language and is widely spoken however; Swahili, Luganda, and many other local languages are spoken. Our tour & safari guides, including 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.
Air Transport & Getting There
The country’s main hub is Entebbe International Airport. A number of international Airlines operate direct flights to Entebbe, these airlines include, British Airways, SN Brussels, Kenya Airways, KLM, Emirates, South Africa Airways, Egypt Air, Ethiopian Airways, Emirates, Air Tanzania, RwandAir Express, Egypt Air, Ethiopian Airlines and Uganda Airlines.
Currency
The Ugandan shilling trades under currency code UGX, and is the official currency of the East African nation. Other currencies like the US dollar, Euro, British Pound or Travellers’ Cheque are acceptable in some places especially hotels and other tourist facilities. Forex Bureaus and Banks are available all around Kampala.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Options
The Pearl of Africa is one of Africa’s top tourist destinations, exceptionally well established with a wide range of luxury accommodation. Whether you’re looking for five-star luxury or a pitch-your-tent wilderness experience, the choices are abundant. Hotels, Safari Lodges, and Tented camps are the various accommodation options.
Food & drink
Tourist-oriented hotels and restaurants serve good Western-style meals, while a wider range of cuisines are available in the capital and some larger towns. Local restaurants serve Ugandan dishes, typically “matooke” (cooked banana) eaten with a stew, Irish potatoes, in addition to other continental dishes.
Driving In Uganda
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- driving. Book a Safe, Reliable and Affordable Rental Car in East Africa with TRAFEKA.
Getting Around;-
Internal Air Travel
Domestic scheduled and charter flights operate from Kajjansi Airfield to most areas, including the national parks within the country and East Africa as a region. Excellent air charter services can be arranged by travel providers to any destination within Uganda.
Taxi-Cabs
Taxis are plentiful outside the main hotels, shopping malls, central city points, and at the Airport. A number of dial-up taxi companies are also available in all major towns. Uber, Taxify, Airport Shuttles and Taxis are all available in Entebbe and Kampala.
Car Rental
Most international car hire companies are represented in Uganda. Rates may vary on a daily or weekly basis, also depending on the type of vehicle, ranging from four- wheel drive to small cab. To hire a car, drivers must be over 18 years and have a driving license.
