Uganda

UGANDA

Uganda, often referred to as the "Pearl of Africa," is a country located in East Africa. It is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Uganda is one of the few places in the world where you can encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are the prime locations for gorilla trekking experiences.

As previously mentioned, Murchison Falls National Park is one of Uganda's largest and most famous national parks. It is home to the powerful Murchison Falls, an abundance of wildlife including the Big Five, and offers thrilling boat safaris along the Nile River.

Jinja, located at the source of the Nile River, offers various water-based activities such as white-water rafting, kayaking, and boat cruises. It's a popular destination for adventure seekers and water sports enthusiasts.

Things you need to know before visiting Uganda

1. New Visa Rules: No More "Arrival" Visas

As of 2026, Uganda has fully transitioned to a 100% digital visa system.

• No Visa on Arrival: You can no longer fly into Entebbe and get a visa at the counter. You must apply via the official e-visa portal at least 14 days before travel.
• Approval Letter: You must print your "Approval Letter" to show at the gate before boarding your flight.
• East Africa Tourist Visa: If you are visiting Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda on this trip, the USD 100 joint visa is still the best value, but it must be issued by the country you enter first.

2. Health: The Yellow Fever "Golden Card"

Coming from Kenya or Zanzibar, the Yellow Fever Certificate is non-negotiable.

• Electronic Verification: In 2026, Uganda has started integrating vaccination data. Ensure your certificate is the "International Certificate of Vaccination" (the yellow book).

• 10-Day Rule: The vaccine must have been administered at least 10 days before you reach the border, or you may be denied entry.

• Mpox & Malaria: There are active Mpox monitoring protocols at Entebbe Airport. Additionally, Uganda has a higher malaria risk than Kenya's highlands; ensure you have a fresh supply of prophylactics (Doxycycline or Malarone).

3. Logistics: Entebbe & The "Expressway"

• Entebbe Express Highway: The toll road from the airport to Kampala is now the only reliable way to travel. Ensure your taxi or transfer service has a pre-loaded "Upesi" card to avoid long cash lines at the toll gates.

• Gorilla Permits: For 2026, Bwindi gorilla permits remain at USD 800 for non-residents. These sell out 4–6 months in advance for the January "dry" season.

• Plastic Ban: Uganda is strictly enforcing its ban on single-use plastic bags. Like Rwanda, your luggage may be searched at Entebbe, and "polythene" bags (including duty-free bags) may be confiscated.

4. Money & Connectivity

• Old USD Bills: Like Zanzibar, Uganda will not accept US Dollar bills printed before 2006 (and many places now reject bills older than 2013). They must be crisp and unmarked.

• Airtel vs. MTN: For 2026, Airtel Uganda currently has slightly better 5G coverage in rural safari zones, while MTN is superior in the cities. You can buy a SIM card at Entebbe Airport using your passport and e-visa.