A First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Uganda

Planning your first trip to Uganda? You’re in for an unforgettable experience. Known as the Pearl of Africa, Uganda is a land of breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, warm hospitality and vibrant cultures. From gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to scenic boat cruises on the Nile and thrilling safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda offers an exceptional range of travel experiences for any kind of adventurer. At Verdant Safaris, we specialize in helping travellers experience the best of Uganda with expertly curated tours and knowledgeable guides. In this article, we offer a first timer’s guide to visiting Uganda, covering all the essential things you need to know for a smooth, exciting and enriching journey.

Why Visit Uganda?

Uganda is one of the most diverse and naturally beautiful countries in East Africa. With its rich ecosystems, from tropical rainforests and Savannah plains to highland mountains and freshwater lakes, Uganda is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, over 1,000 species of birds and the source of the Nile River. Add to this the warm and welcoming people, delicious local cuisine and rich cultural traditions, and it’s easy to see why Uganda is an increasingly popular travel destination.

Entry Requirements and Visa Information

Before boarding your flight, it’s important to ensure you meet Uganda’s entry requirements. Most international visitors need a visa to enter Uganda, which can be easily obtained online via Uganda’s official e-visa system. You can apply for a single-entry Uganda Tourist Visa or opt for the East Africa Tourist Visa if you plan to visit Kenya or Rwanda as well. Apply at least a few weeks in advance and carry a printed copy of your approval.

A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for all visitors and must be presented at the airport upon arrival. It’s also a good idea to bring printed copies of your travel insurance, return flight details, hotel reservations and other essential documents.

Best Time to Visit Uganda

Uganda has a tropical climate and can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons, from December to February and June to August. These months are ideal for wildlife viewing and gorilla trekking, as trails are less muddy and animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot.

The rainy seasons, from March to May and September to November, bring lush greenery and fewer crowds. While some roads may be harder to navigate during these months, travel is still possible with the right planning and vehicle.

Health and Safety Tips

Uganda is generally safe for tourists, especially when you travel with a reputable tour company like Verdant Safaris. However, like travelling to any other country, it’s wise to take a few health precautions.

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date, and consider vaccines for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus in addition to the mandatory Yellow Fever shot. Malaria is present in Uganda, so consult your doctor about taking anti-malarial medication and pack strong mosquito repellent. Bring along sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and any personal medications you might need.

It’s also important to drink bottled or filtered water, avoid raw street food if you have a sensitive stomach and maintain good hygiene practices.

What to Pack for Your Uganda Trip

Packing wisely is essential, especially if you plan to go on safari, gorilla trekking or hiking. Here are some essentials to consider:

Lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime
Warm layers or a fleece for chilly mornings and evenings, especially in the highlands
Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers for protection against insects and vegetation
Sturdy hiking boots or walking shoes for trekking
Rain jacket or poncho, especially during the wet season
Sunscreen, insect repellent and a wide-brimmed hat
Camera and binoculars for wildlife spotting
Daypack, water bottle and snacks for excursions
Swimwear if visiting lakes or staying at lodges with pools

At Verdant Safaris, we provide detailed packing guides for our clients based on the specific activities they’ll be doing, ensuring you’re fully prepared.

Gorilla Trekking: Uganda’s Top Adventure

If there’s one experience you shouldn’t miss, it’s gorilla trekking in Uganda. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are the two places where you can see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The trek can take several hours through dense forest and hilly terrain, but the moment you come face-to-face with a gorilla family is life-changing.

Gorilla trekking permits are limited and should be booked well in advance. The cost is USD 700 per person for foreign non-residents. A limited number of permits are issued each day, and you’ll be accompanied by trained guides and trackers throughout the experience.

Uganda Safaris and Wildlife Experiences

Uganda offers some of the most rewarding safari experiences in Africa. Unlike more commercial destinations, Ugandan safaris tend to be more intimate and less crowded. At Verdant Safaris, we take pride in crafting immersive safari experiences to national parks like:

Queen Elizabeth National Park – known for tree-climbing lions, boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel and diverse wildlife
Murchison Falls National Park – home to the powerful Murchison Falls and excellent game drives
Kidepo Valley National Park – a remote, off-the-beaten-path gem with incredible scenery and abundant wildlife
Lake Mburo National Park – perfect for walking safaris and sightings of zebras, hippos and antelope

Uganda also offers unique activities like chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, birdwatching in Mabamba Swamp, and white-water rafting on the Nile in Jinja.

Ugandan Culture and People

Uganda is incredibly rich in culture, with over 50 tribes and languages. Each ethnic group has its own customs, dances, music and traditions. Luganda is widely spoken, especially in the central region, but English is the official language and used in most urban areas and tourism settings.

Ugandans are known for their friendliness and hospitality. You’ll often be greeted with a warm smile and polite conversation. When visiting local communities or attending cultural experiences, it’s important to be respectful, ask permission before taking photos, and dress modestly, especially in rural areas or places of worship.

Getting Around Uganda

For first-time visitors, the best way to travel is with a licensed tour operator like Verdant Safaris. We handle transportation, accommodation, activities and park permits, so you can focus on enjoying the adventure. Most national parks are accessible by road, and we provide comfortable 4×4 vehicles for safaris.

Domestic flights are available between Entebbe and major safari destinations like Kidepo, Bwindi and Murchison Falls, and can be a time-saving option. In cities like Kampala and Entebbe, public transport options like boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) exist, but they may not be safe or easy for tourists to navigate.

Local Cuisine and Food Tips

Trying local food is an essential part of visiting Uganda. The cuisine is hearty and diverse, with staple dishes like:

Matoke – steamed green bananas often served with meat or groundnut sauce
Luwombo – a traditional Buganda dish of meat or fish steamed in banana leaves
Rolex – a popular street snack made of a rolled chapati with eggs and vegetables
Posho – maize meal similar to polenta, served with beans or stew

Most lodges and hotels offer a mix of local and international dishes, and vegetarian options are generally available. Tap water is not safe to drink, so stick to bottled or filtered water.

Currency, Tipping and Payments

The local currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). ATMs are available in most towns and cities, and Visa cards are more widely accepted than Mastercard. However, cash is often preferred, especially in rural areas.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. For guides and drivers, a tip of USD 5 to 10 per day is standard. In restaurants, a tip of 5 to 10 percent is common if service is not included in the bill.

Visiting Uganda for the first time is an eye-opening and life-enriching experience. From the majestic gorillas of Bwindi to the wildlife-filled Savannah and the vibrant local culture, Uganda has something for every traveller. With the right preparation and a trusted local tour operator like Verdant Safaris, your trip will be safe, memorable and full of wonder.

As you plan your adventure to the Pearl of Africa, let us at Verdant Safaris help you create a personalised, responsible and truly unforgettable travel experience. Uganda awaits wild, beautiful and ready to welcome you.