ISO: UG
Visiting Uganda, an East African nation known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, becomes an enriching experience when you prioritize safety during your travel. From the majestic gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to the scenic beauty of the Nile River and cultural encounters with the Ugandan people, Uganda offers a distinctive set of tourist attractions. This guide not only addresses safety concerns but also encourages you to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness that await you in this inspiring country.
Cities in Uganda
No related cities found.
Travel Risk Levels Uganda
Overall Risk Uganda:
Medium
Uganda offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. However, travelers should exercise caution and stay informed about potential risks.
Transport and Taxi Risk Uganda:
High
Road conditions in Uganda can be challenging, and traffic incidents are common. Taxi services might not always use meters, leading to potential overcharging.
Pickpocket Risk Uganda:
Medium
While exploring the vibrant markets of Kampala, travelers should be cautious as pickpocketing can be an issue, especially in crowded areas.
Physical Crime Risk Uganda:
Medium
Incidents of physical or assault crimes have been reported, especially after dark. Travelers are advised to avoid walking alone at night.
Natural Disaster Risk Uganda:
Low
Uganda has a relatively low risk of natural disasters, but occasional flooding might occur.
Terrorism Risk Uganda:
Medium
While Uganda has made significant efforts in counter-terrorism, there remains a medium risk. It's essential to stay updated about potential threats.
Scams Risk Uganda:
Medium
Travelers should be wary of common scams, including fake tour guides and inflated prices. Always verify and negotiate prices upfront.
Women Travelers Risk Uganda:
Medium
Solo female travelers should exercise additional caution, especially in remote areas. It's advisable to dress modestly and avoid isolated locations at night.
Tap Water Risk Uganda:
High
It's recommended to avoid tap water in Uganda. Bottled water is the safest choice for drinking and brushing teeth.
Public Behavior Risk Uganda:
Medium
Ugandans are generally friendly and hospitable, but public displays of affection should be minimized.
LGBTQ Acceptance Risk Uganda:
High
LGBTQ+ travelers should be extremely cautious, as Uganda has stringent laws against homosexuality. Discretion is crucial.
Police and Officials Corruption Risk Uganda:
High
Corruption can be a challenge in Uganda. Travelers might encounter officials seeking bribes. It's best to stay informed and handle situations calmly.
Business Risk Uganda:
Medium
Doing business in Uganda presents both opportunities and challenges. While the country is rich in resources, bureaucratic processes and occasional political instability can be hurdles.
An example of something bad that can happen travelling to Uganda
Close Encounters in Uganda's Impenetrable Forest
The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is particularly famous for gorilla trekking. But for Alice, a trek into this dense forest turned into an unexpected ordeal.
Following the guidance of local rangers, Alice's group embarked on a trek to capture images of the majestic mountain gorillas. With the dense vegetation and uneven terrain, the trek was challenging but rewarding. However, things took a turn when a sudden downpour began. The forest's trails, already slippery and treacherous, became almost impassable with mudslides in some areas.
The group decided to wait out the rain under the shelter of large leaves and trees. However, as minutes turned to hours, the rain showed no sign of letting up. As darkness began to fall, the rangers made the call to stay put for the night to avoid any potential hazards that could arise from navigating the treacherous paths in the dark and rain.
Using their survival skills, the rangers built a makeshift shelter. The group huddled together, sharing stories and rationing their food and water. While the night was long and uncomfortable, the morning brought clear skies and a deepened sense of camaraderie among the travelers.
Alice's ordeal, while harrowing, became a testament to the unpredictable nature of travel adventures and the importance of being prepared. It was a stark reminder of the challenges the dense Ugandan forests can present, even for the most experienced trekkers. Yet, with challenges come unforgettable memories, and for Alice, that rainy night in Bwindi became a story of resilience, adaptability, and the indomitable human spirit.
Safe Places
Be advised this list does not advise the cities/towns are safe for all tourists, safety is still relative to the country itself.
What are the safest places to visit in Uganda?
- Kampala: The capital city with attractions such as the Uganda Museum and the Kasubi Tombs.
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: A dense forest, home to mountain gorillas.
- Murchison Falls National Park: Known for its powerful waterfall and diverse wildlife.
Travel Tips
Useful Tips When Travelling to Uganda
Currency: The official currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). While major towns have ATMs and hotels accept credit cards, it's a good idea to carry cash when venturing into more remote areas.
Language: English is the official language, and Swahili is widely spoken. However, Uganda boasts over 40 local languages. A few basic phrases in Luganda, commonly spoken in Kampala, can go a long way with locals.
Historical Sites: Visit the Kasubi Tombs in Kampala, which are the burial grounds for four kabakas (kings) and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Another significant site is the Uganda Martyrs Shrine, dedicated to the Christian converts killed for their faith in the late 1800s.
Visas: Most nationalities require a visa to enter Uganda. You can apply online or upon arrival at the Entebbe International Airport. If you plan to visit Rwanda or Kenya, consider the East Africa Tourist Visa which covers all three countries.
Local Etiquette: Ugandans are generally warm and hospitable. A handshake is the common greeting, often with a twist. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or rural areas. It's polite to accept food or drink when offered during a visit to someone's home.
Top Attractions: Explore the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking, marvel at the powerful Murchison Falls, or take a boat trip on Lake Victoria, the second-largest freshwater lake in the world.
Connectivity: Major cities and towns have decent mobile and internet connectivity. However, the internet can be slow or sporadic in remote areas. Consider buying a local SIM card upon arrival for better coverage and rates.
Weather
Annual weather in Kampala, Uganda
Uganda has a tropical climate with hot, humid weather all year round. Best to visit during the dry season (June to October).
| Month |
Avg Temp (°C) |
Avg Temp (°F) |
Rainy Days |
| January |
23 |
73.4 |
7 |
| February |
23 |
73.4 |
8 |
| March |
22 |
71.6 |
12 |
| April |
21 |
69.8 |
18 |
| May |
21 |
69.8 |
17 |
| June |
21 |
69.8 |
5 |
| July |
21 |
69.8 |
4 |
| August |
21 |
69.8 |
6 |
| September |
21 |
69.8 |
8 |
| October |
21 |
69.8 |
10 |
| November |
22 |
71.6 |
13 |
| December |
22 |
71.6 |
9 |
