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Capital City Kampala
Government System Presidential Republic
Surface Area 241,038 km²
Population Approximately 48 million (2024 est.)
Languages Spoken English (official), Swahili (official), Luganda and numerous local languages
Major Religions Christianity, Islam, Indigenous beliefs
County Overview |
Uganda, often called the “Pearl of Africa”, is a landlocked country in East Africa known for its rich biodiversity, warm hospitality, and varied landscapes that range from savannah plains and dense rainforests to the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains. The country is bordered by Kenya, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Tanzania, making it a central point in the Great Lakes region. Uganda’s numerous lakes, including a large part of Lake Victoria, add to its scenic beauty and make it an important ecological hub.
Uganda’s history is deeply complex, from its pre-colonial kingdoms to British rule, and the turbulent decades following independence in 1962. Today, the country operates under a presidential republic system. While modern challenges such as rapid population growth, infrastructure strain, and poverty persist, Uganda continues to develop its tourism, agriculture, and energy sectors. National parks such as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Queen Elizabeth National Park showcase mountain gorillas, tree-climbing lions, and an astonishing variety of birds.
Culturally, Uganda is incredibly diverse, with more than 50 recognised ethnic groups and multiple languages. This cultural variety is reflected in music, dance, crafts, and cuisine, giving visitors a chance to experience a wide spectrum of traditions. Despite modernisation, the sense of community remains strong in both urban and rural areas.
USEFUL INFORMATION
Currency & banking
Uganda’s official currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). It has been in circulation since 1966, and today it is widely used across all daily transactions. While US dollars are accepted in some tourist areas, particularly for safaris and higher-end services, the shilling remains the standard in shops, local restaurants, and transport. The value of the shilling has fluctuated over the years, but exchange services are readily available in major cities and towns.
💵 Denominations
The Ugandan Shilling comes in coins and banknotes. Coins are available in 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 shillings, though smaller denominations are less commonly used in practice. Banknotes are issued in 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, and 50,000 shillings. Notes feature important cultural symbols, wildlife, and landmarks, making them distinctive. When shopping in markets, small denominations are very useful, as change is not always available.
🔄 Currency Exchange
Currency exchange services can be found at banks, official forex bureaus, and airports. Kampala and other large towns have numerous exchange outlets offering competitive rates. US dollars, British pounds, and euros are the most commonly exchanged currencies. It is best to bring newer US dollar notes (issued after 2009 and in good condition) as older or damaged notes may be rejected. Exchange should only be done at reputable establishments to avoid counterfeit risks.
💳 Credit Cards & ATMs
Credit cards are accepted mainly in high-end hotels, lodges, and larger restaurants. Visa is the most widely accepted card, while MasterCard and American Express are less common. Outside of major cities, cash is essential. ATMs are widely available in urban centres, with Barclays (Absa), Standard Chartered, and Stanbic among the main banks providing international services. Withdrawals are usually in shillings, and daily limits may apply, so planning ahead is advised.
Tipping
🍽️ Restaurants
In Uganda, tipping is not mandatory but is very much appreciated. In mid-range and upscale restaurants, a tip of around 5–10% is customary if service is good. In smaller local eateries, rounding up the bill is sufficient.
🏨 Hotels
Hotel staff, including porters and housekeeping, are accustomed to receiving tips. Around 2,000–5,000 UGX per service is a fair gesture, depending on the quality of the hotel. In luxury lodges, tips are often pooled for staff and envelopes may be provided for this purpose.
🚖 Taxis
Taxi drivers generally do not expect tips. However, rounding up the fare is a courteous gesture, especially for private taxi hires or if the driver has been particularly helpful with luggage or advice.
🚌 Guides & Drivers
Tour guides and safari drivers rely heavily on tips. A common rate is between USD $5–10 per day for group tours and USD $10–20 per day for private drivers or guides, depending on the service quality.
Communications
📡 Public WiFi
Public WiFi is limited in Uganda, though some cafés, malls, and airports provide access. Connections are often slow and not reliable for heavy usage. Tourists should avoid accessing sensitive accounts on public WiFi due to security risks.
🏨 Hotel WiFi
Most mid-range and upscale hotels offer WiFi as part of the service, though speeds can vary greatly. In rural lodges, WiFi may only be available in reception areas or not at all. Planning for patchy connections is wise when travelling outside Kampala.
📱 Mobile Networks & SIM Cards
Uganda has several mobile operators, including MTN and Airtel, which provide extensive coverage across the country. Purchasing a local SIM card is inexpensive and requires presenting your passport. Data packages are widely available and affordable, making mobile internet the most reliable option for tourists.
Getting Around
🚌 Buses & Matatus
Buses connect major towns, while matatus (minibuses) are the most common and affordable means of transport within and between towns. They are inexpensive but often crowded and lack strict schedules.
🛺 Boda Bodas
Motorbike taxis, known as boda bodas, are quick and cheap but can be dangerous due to erratic driving and lack of helmets. Use recognised services or apps when available.
🚕 Taxis
Private taxis are available in larger towns, often without meters, so fares should be agreed upon in advance. Ride-hailing apps like SafeBoda and Bolt operate in Kampala, providing safer alternatives.
🚂 Trains
Rail services are minimal and mostly limited to cargo, with little benefit for tourists.
🚘 Driving & Local Laws
Tourists may hire cars, but driving in Uganda requires caution. Roads vary from paved highways to rough tracks. Driving is on the left, and a valid international driving permit is necessary. Speed limits are enforced, particularly near towns and schools. Police checkpoints are common, and seat belts are mandatory. Drunk driving is strictly punished, and road accidents are a significant risk.
Health advice
💉 Suggested Vaccines
| Vaccine | Recommended For |
|---|---|
| Yellow Fever | Mandatory for entry |
| Hepatitis A & B | All travellers |
| Typhoid | Most travellers |
| Rabies | Long-term visitors, rural travel |
| Meningitis | Seasonal outbreaks |
| Tetanus | All travellers |
🦠 Diseases
Malaria is widespread, and prophylactic medication is strongly advised. Dengue fever and other mosquito-borne illnesses are also possible. Cholera outbreaks occur in certain regions, so bottled or purified water is essential.
🤒 Potential Health Issues
Traveller’s diarrhoea is common, so food and water precautions are important. Heat exhaustion and dehydration can be risks in hotter months, particularly when outdoors.
🏥 Healthcare Standards
Healthcare in Uganda is variable. Facilities in Kampala are better equipped, but rural areas often lack resources. Private hospitals and clinics are recommended for tourists. Medical evacuation insurance is highly advisable.
📑 Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical treatment, evacuation, and theft is strongly recommended. Many lodges and safari operators may ask for proof of insurance.
Safety
🚔 Crime
Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in busy areas. Tourists should avoid displaying valuables and take taxis at night instead of walking.
⚠️ General Safety Issues
Road safety is a concern, as accidents are frequent. Wildlife areas should only be explored with authorised guides. Protests and political gatherings can turn confrontational and should be avoided.
📜 Local Laws
Drug use is illegal and harshly punished. Same-sex relationships face legal and social challenges. Photography of government or military sites is prohibited. Carry identification at all times, as police may request it.
☎️ Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 999 or 112 |
| Ambulance | 911 |
| Fire | 112 |
Climate
🌸 March–May (Long Rains)
Heavy rains can cause flooding and road disruption, especially in rural areas. Wildlife viewing may be harder, but the landscapes are lush and green.
☀️ June–August (Dry Season)
This is the peak tourist season. Wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around water sources. Conditions are pleasant, but lodges book quickly.
🍂 September–November (Short Rains)
Rainfall is less intense than the long rainy season, but travel can still be affected. Birdwatching is excellent during this period.
❄️ December–February (Dry Season)
Another prime time for safaris, with warm weather and excellent wildlife opportunities.
🎒 Packing Tips
Lightweight clothes, sturdy walking shoes, a rain jacket, mosquito repellent, and sun protection are essential. For safaris, neutral-coloured clothing is preferred.
🏆 Best Time to Visit
The dry seasons (June–August and December–February) are generally considered the best times to visit, offering reliable conditions for safaris and outdoor activities.
📊 Climate Summary
| Season | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Mar–May | Heavy rains, lush scenery | Green landscapes, low prices |
| Jun–Aug | Dry, mild temperatures | Safaris, peak season |
| Sep–Nov | Short rains, warm | Birdwatching |
| Dec–Feb | Dry, hot | Wildlife spotting, outdoor travel |
Visa requirements
🛂 Visa Information
📑 Visa Types
Most tourists require a visa to enter Uganda. Options include single-entry visas (usually valid for 90 days) and East Africa Tourist Visas, which allow travel between Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda. Visas can be obtained online via the official government portal.
🌐 Useful Links
Electrical
The standard voltage is 240 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
Which power plugs and sockets are in Uganda?
In Uganda, the power plugs and sockets are of type G. Check out the following pictures.
Type G: this type is of British origin. This socket only works with plug G.
 |
| Type G: This socket has no alternative plugs |