Safety & Health

1. The western borderlands near the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the central highlands and some northern border areas have unstable security conditions, with past armed attacks. Avoid remote border zones. Always enter park areas through official gates and follow armed ranger escorts.
2. A valid yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry. Complete typhoid and hepatitis A vaccinations before departure. Take antimalarial medication as prescribed and use insect repellent and mosquito nets throughout your trip.
3. Register your itinerary on the consular service website before departure. Save the contact numbers for the Ugandan embassy or consulate in your country, as well as local emergency numbers (999 or 112).
4. Mosquitoes are especially active around Lake Victoria and the Nile River in the evening. Wear long sleeves and trousers when hiking near the lakeshore.

Permits & Itinerary

1. Book gorilla permits (around USD 800) and chimpanzee permits (around USD 200–250) through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or authorized travel agencies, and reserve 3–6 months in advance during peak season.
2. The physical demands of gorilla trekking are often underestimated: waterproof hiking boots, gaiters, long sleeves, and rain gear are essential. Hiring a porter (tip around USD 15–20) is highly recommended.
3. Roads in the southwestern highlands become muddy during the rainy season (March to May). Prioritize domestic flights or postpone travel to inland areas during this period.

Money & Communication

1. Park fees are usually quoted and paid in US dollars. Carry clean bills issued after 2009. Ugandan shillings are used for daily expenses. Use ATMs located inside bank branches when possible.
2. Tipping is customary: guides (USD 10–20), porters (USD 15–20), drivers (around USD 10 per day). Carry small denomination bills.
3. Buy a SIM card from MTN or Airtel and activate a data package. There is no mobile signal inside parks. Download offline maps in advance.

Etiquette & Details

1. Greet and ask for permission before entering homes or taking photos of people. Dress modestly when visiting churches or mosques.
2. Maintain a distance of at least 7 meters from wildlife in parks. Do not feed animals or make loud noises. Drones require special approval from the Uganda Wildlife Authority and must not be flown without permission.
3. Uganda uses 220–240V electricity with UK-style plugs. Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential year-round due to strong high-altitude UV rays.
4. In the Buganda region, listen respectfully when the monarchy is discussed, but avoid making judgments about local customs or religious practices.
5. Keep small-denomination Ugandan shilling notes for tipping upon departure. Airport shops accept cards, but change policies are the same as in the city.