Before You Go

Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa. It is bordered to the east by Kenya, to the north by South Sudan, to the west by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, to the southwest by Rwanda, and to the south by Tanzania.Famously called the Pearl of Africa by Winston Churchill, it is a home to one of the most diverse and concentrated ranges of African fauna including the highly endangered mountain gorilla and the endangered common chimpanzee. Uganda appeals to all travellers, whatever your interest; be it Gorillas trekking, Wildlife Viewing, chimpanzee tracking, Bird watching, Mountain Climbing, White Water Rafting, Bungee Jumping, Sport Fishing and Cultural tours. You are free to enter the country.

Here is important information you need to know before travelling to Uganda, the Pearl of Africa.

  • Getting There – How to get to Uganda, the Pearl of Africa
  • Tips on arrival
  • Vaccination
  • Visa

Quick tip

Consult the website of your foreign ministry before traveling. They will usually have info if they consider certain areas unsafe for their citizens.

Luggage:

Airlines will offer you 20-40 Kg, or two pieces, of luggage on most flights. It is preferable for you to use soft luggage as space in vehicles is limited. We can arrange the storage of winter clothes that you will not need on safari.

Photography:

Though some types of film are available in many of the lodges, it is advisable to bring film and batteries with you or to purchase them in Kampala.  A pair of binoculars will prove extremely useful for a keen game viewer or birder. There is no charge for photography cameras and personal video recorders, but there may be a charge for commercial cameras in some places. Clients are responsible for any such fee. High-speed film is recommended for gorilla photos and high altitude filters are best for climbers. Check with your photo shop.

Security:

Precautions should be taken as in any major city. Unless safely deposit boxes are available in your hotel or lodge, always carry travel documents, travellers cheques, cash and other valuables with you at all times or leave them in the possession of Pearl of Africa Tours and Travel. If you leave your travel documents behind, travel with a photocopy.

We recommend that you do not walk alone late in the night, but instead take a taxi. We can arrange the safe keeping of your passport and ticket in our offices upon request.

Guard yourself and your valuables as you would anywhere in the world. Stay aware of your surroundings and be cautious but friendly where possible.