About Uganda

Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa bordering Kenya, DRC, Sudan, Rwanda and Tanzania. Uganda is a country of many contrasts ranging from mountain ranges, to savannah grasslands, forests, wildlife, fresh water bodies, historical and cultural heritages. The country is predominantly agrarian and traditional customs and lifestyles are kept alive. Home to the endangered mountain gorilla, Uganda’s unique beauty makes it Africa’s best kept secret and the number one adventure Safari destination.

Climate: Uganda enjoys ideal weather condition, ranging from the warmth of the lowland areas and lakeshores to the coolness of the highlands. Temperatures range between 21C and 25C. The rains are mainly between March and May, and October and November.

Visas: Visas are generally available at all the entry points including Entebbe Airport at a cost of USD $30 per person.

Currency: The Uganda shilling is the currency used. It is however advisable that you carry American dollars, travelers cheques .The rates vary from time to time but are posted at all banks and forex bureaus.

Airlines: Uganda is linked to the rest of the world by Several airlines services regularly including East African Airline, Air Tanzania, South African airways, British Airways, Egypt Air, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, SN Brussels, Emirates, Gulf air. There are several reputable domestic charter companies to choose from.

Health Requirements: Certificates may be required for vaccinations against yellow fever. Check current medical advice on typhoid, cholera and hepatitis. It’s advisable to start anti-malaria medication 10-14 days prior to your travel date and continue with the same for 14 days after departing East Africa. Personal insurance is advised.

Language: The official language is English. Kiswahili and Luganda are widely spoken in the country.  40 other languages are spoken in Uganda.

Banking and Forex exchange:  Several international banks operate in Uganda including Barclays, Standard Chartered, Stanbic, Bank of Baroda, Bank of commerce etc. Many forex bureaus also operate across the country. Generally the banking hours are 8.30 am to 3.00 pm, Monday to Friday. Some are open long hours and on Saturdays. There are no legal restrictions for foreign exchange transactions and Forex is easily convertible. United States dollar (notes from 1996), the Euro & pound are accepted. Lager bills normally attract good rates

Clothing: Light summer clothing supplemented by a sweater or a jacket should be sufficiently all year round. Usually dressing is informal. Cotton slacks and flat-heeled walking shoes are recommended on safari. Don’t forget to bring a hat, sun creams for protection and a swim suite. Umbrellas and windbreakers are recommended in the wet seasons. Request further details at the time of booking.

Credit Cards: Uganda is predominantly a cash society, however, some hotels and a few choice establishments in Kampala and some up country lodges accept credit cards.

Photography: Taking photographs are generally allowed except in some places considered to be sensitive security wise. Your guide will tell you what is acceptable or not. Though photo films are generally available, it may be advisable to come with some extra films and batteries. A pair of binoculars will prove completely useful for the keen game viewer or bird watcher. Clients are responsible for any such fee. High-speed films are recommended for gorilla photo and high altitude filters are best for climbers. Check with your photo shop.

Security: Precautions should be taken as in any major city. Unless safety deposit boxes are available in your hotel or lodge, always carry travel documents, travellers cheques, cash and other valuables with you at all times. 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 office upon request.

Sports: There are a variety of sports available in the country. There are various sporting activities ranging from fishing on Lake Victoria or Nile Rive; White water rafting and flat water canoeing; on the River Nile; mountain climbing and hiking are popular at the Rwenzori Mountains and Mt Elgon, golfing in Kampala, Entebbe and Jinja; for special interest sports please request.

Transport: The roads are generally in good condition. Four-wheel Drive vehicles may be required for up-country use, especially in the national parks during the rainy seasons. We maintain a fleet of saloon cars, mini-buses and four –heel drive vehicles, available on chauffeur driven basis. Self-drive vehicles other than saloon cars are hard to come by. Please inquire for further details and tariffs.

Gorilla tracking,
The minimum age for tracking is 15 years. Any one with signs of communicable diseases will not be allowed to trek. we strongly recommend a poncho, knapsack, long sleeved shirt and trousers, sturdy hiking boots, leather gardening type gloves, sun cream, insect repellent and any other necessary medication. Cameras and video cameras are allowed but remember to carry extra batteries.

Accommodation: Kampala offers very good hotels ranging from 5 star hotels to comfortable lodges and Inns to fit every budget.  Elsewhere across the country and in the National parks, hotels and Inns are generally available, but quality of service and rooms vary greatly. Asyanut Tours and Travel takes care in booking the best accommodation available for your Safaris. All of our prepared itineraries start from Kampala. You require pre or post safari hotel bookings in Kampala or Airport transfers to/from Entebbe, please let us know in advance so as to make the necessary arrangements for you.

Foods and drinks: Fresh tropical fruits and vegetables are found throughout the country. A wide range of dishes both traditional and international, are served in hotels and restaurants. If you have any dietary restrictions, please advice in advance. We recommend that you drink only brand of mineral water.