Planning your trip to Uganda

Uganda is a country in East Africa that is nearly twice the size of England. The diverse landscape of Uganda encompasses the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains and immense Lake Victoria. Its abundant wildlife includes endangered gorillas and chimpanzees as well as rare birds. Remote Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a famous mountain gorilla sanctuary, while Murchison Falls National Park in the northwest is known for its 43m-tall waterfall and wildlife.

Our highly experienced and professional team at Gondwana Tours & Safaris will arrange the logistics for you and help you plan your journey in great detail to ensure a spectacular safari experience in Uganda to perfectly suit your individual needs.

Uganda Weather – Times to Travel

There is no single best time to visit Uganda but there are rainy and dry seasons. Each has its advantages.

December to March: This is summer in East Africa. Temperatures are warm and pleasant with an average high of 28°C and an average low of 15°C. The rains from early November to late March are usually scattered and localized with short-lived downpours. There is often heavy rain in late March.

At a glance: Expect warm temperatures and short rains. Game viewing in the Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks, as well as Gorilla and Chimpanzee trekking are all offered.

April to June: The rains arrive and heavy showers can be expected for a few hours every
day or so.

At a glance: Don’t be put off by the long rains: safaris are good during this period, fewer visitors around the parks and all lodges are running low season rates at this time.

July to November: The October to December short rains notwithstanding, these months are mostly dry and sunny forcing animals to gather at permanent water. July to September offers the most pleasant weather in East Africa.

At a glance: Mild temperatures and classic dry-season game viewing make these months a popular time to visit East Africa. Book accommodation and tours well in advance, Visitor numbers peak in August.

What to bring

With specific needs depending on the time of year, casual comfortable clothing is suitable at all times.

• Long sleeved cotton tops will protect you from sun and mosquitoes

• Shorts and trousers with pockets

• Fleece, thick sweater or a warm jacket and hat for game drives (recommended even in summer)

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sun block, lip balm, sunglasses, hat and insect repellent

• Binoculars and camera

• Light, compact raincoat is a good idea for the summer, although most camps provide these

• Swimsuit (most camps or lodges have swimming pools)

Layers of clothing are most practical for the fluctuating day/night temperatures. Muted and neutral colours are more suitable for safari, but white is not very practical.

Clothing for Gorilla Tracking:
Things required for the trek: sturdy hiking boots (ankle high), additional footwear such as sports sneakers, long trousers due to the possible presence of safari ants in the forests (quick dry cotton trekking trousers are ideal), a long sleeved cotton shirt (the vegetation can be quite aggressive), lightweight water-proof rain jacket and rain pants, rain poncho (this can also be rented). 

Bwindi Gorilla Lodge (for those staying here): a cap, gardening gloves, a jacket for the cool evenings, sun screen cream, insect repellent, small backpack for carrying water and packed lunch.

Your Health in Uganda

Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for travel in Uganda. All guests must consult their own medical doctor or health authorities regarding the use of anti-malarial tablets prior to departure.

Standard Immunization is a requirement for Uganda and up-to-date information should be obtained from your local health department as to what is required. It is the guest’s sole responsibility to ensure that they have had all necessary inoculations, immunizations and medications prior to departure.

It is the guest’s obligation to ensure that he/she is medically fit to participate in travel i.e. for walking and activities where a reasonable level of fitness is required.

Passport and Visa Requirements:

Kindly note that all nationals require a visa to enter Uganda. The Visa fee is US$ 50 per person irrespective of adult, child or infant. Visas can also be obtained on arrival at the international Airport. You can obtain them in advance from the local Embassy too. Please also note that you require 2 empty pages in your passport for entry into Uganda.

Uganda online visa – https://visas.immigration.go.ug/
If visiting Rwanda or Kenya as part of your trip extension, you have the option to also obtain an East Africa Visa for Uganda/Rwanda and Kenya for US$ 100 per person.