uganda
Meeting the Gorillas
From the impenetrable forests of Bwindi to the peaceful shores of Lake Victoria, let yourself be amazed by the treasures of Uganda. This captivating country invites you to experience unforgettable encounters with mountain gorillas, safaris through lush parks, and moments of serenity by its sparkling lakes. Whether you are passionate about wildlife, seeking adventure, or curious to discover living traditions, Uganda promises a unique journey filled with emotion and beauty. A destination where nature and humanity resonate in unison to create timeless memories.
Uganda at a glance
Location: Located in the heart of East Africa, Uganda shares borders with Kenya to the east, South Sudan to the north, the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west, Rwanda to the southwest, and Tanzania to the south. The country covers an area of approximately 241,000 km², with a significant portion taken up by national parks, nature reserves, and Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa.
Capital: Kampala
Population: Approximately 48 million inhabitants
Official languages: English and Swahili
Currency: Ugandan Shilling (UGX) – 1€ equals about 4,100 UGX. ATMs are available in major cities like Kampala and Entebbe, and credit card payments are accepted at tourist establishments.
Time difference: +2h in winter and +1h in summer
Flight time: 8 to 10 hours on average from Europe
Entry formalities: Passport valid at least 6 months after date of return, e-visa required, to be requested online before departure ($50 for single entry).
Health: The yellow fever vaccine is mandatory, and it is recommended to protect yourself against malaria. Bring tropical mosquito repellent, sunscreen, pain relievers, and anti-diarrhea medications. Drink bottled water and eat well-cooked food.
What to pack: A plug adapter for Type G (UK-style) outlets, a hat, lightweight and covering clothes to protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes, hiking shoes for exploring national parks, binoculars for wildlife watching, and a headlamp. Evenings can be cool, so pack a warm jacket.
Good to know: Uganda is predominantly Christian, but local customs value simplicity and respect. When visiting villages or communities, it’s advised to ask permission before taking photos. Patience and a smile are the keys to warm interactions.
5 good reasons to visit Uganda
Travel Ideas
Be inspired by our fully customizable travel ideas.
Contact us for a tailor-made offer that’s just right for you.
Discover Kenya in 5 days of adventure from the vast plains of the Maasai Mara to the peaceful shores of Lake Naivasha.
5 Days / 4 Nights – From €1000
Discover the wild beauty of Uganda on a captivating journey. Meet mountain gorillas in the famous Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and explore the unique landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its perched lions. This trip is perfect for a first discovery of the wonders Uganda has to offer, between adventure and unforgettable encounters.
9 Days / 8 Nights – From €3750
Discover Uganda in 11 days of adventure, between majestic elephants, rare rhinoceroses and mountain gorillas. A unique journey that will let you explore the incredible diversity of Uganda’s flora and fauna, far from the beaten track.
11 Days / 10 Nights – From €4500
Preparing your trip to Uganda
How to get to Uganda
Air travel is the most common means of getting to Uganda, which has good international connections. Entebbe International Airport is the main point of entry, some 40 km from the capital Kampala. It is served by flights from many cities around the world, including Uganda Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines and other international carriers.
From Brussels, there are direct flights to Entebbe via Brussels Airlines. Average flight time is around 8 hours. Fares to Uganda generally range from €500 to €800 return, depending on season and availability.
When should you travel to Uganda?
Uganda can be visited all year round, but climatic conditions vary according to the season, and certain times are more suitable for certain activities.
Autumn (September to November) is one of the best times to explore the country. Temperatures vary between 20°C and 30°C, with sunny days and cool evenings. Although November can be slightly wetter, this month offers lush nature and ideal conditions for safaris and trekking in the forests.
Winter (December to February) is also a good time to visit Uganda, especially for those who prefer a dry, sunny climate. Temperatures oscillate between 20°C and 30°C, with little rain, which is perfect for observing wildlife, especially mountain gorillas, and exploring the national parks. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect more visitors to popular sites.
Spring (March to May) is the rainy season in Uganda, with temperatures between 20°C and 28°C. Although the landscapes are particularly green and beautiful, some trails can be muddy, and getting around can be more difficult. If you love lush nature and want to avoid the crowds, this is an ideal time of year.
Summer (June to August) is a dry and pleasant time to travel. Temperatures remain moderate between 20°C and 28°C, with little rain, making conditions perfect for safaris, hikes and visits to national parks, while enjoying more active wildlife.
In short, the best times to visit Uganda are December to February and June to August, when the climate is drier and more conducive to wilderness adventures.
Getting around Uganda
Getting around Uganda can vary according to destination and means of transport chosen. Here are a few options for travelers:
Minibuses (or matatus) are one of the most popular means of getting around within cities and between small towns. Although economical, these minibuses can be crowded and offer little in the way of comfort. They are, however, ideal for short journeys and an authentic experience of local life.
Car hire is another option, but we strongly recommend hiring a vehicle with a driver, especially if you’re venturing into more remote areas. Driving can be difficult due to road conditions, especially in rural areas. An experienced driver will give you peace of mind and make it easier to get around.
Flying is a fast way to travel between remote areas, but it is more expensive. It is useful for connecting the main cities and more remote national parks, such as those in the north or west of the country. Domestic flights are operated by companies such as Eagle Air and Air Uganda, and offer a convenient time-saving option.
How long for a trip to Uganda?
The ideal duration for a trip to Uganda depends on your preferences and the regions you wish to explore. Generally, it is recommended to spend at least 3 days and 2 nights in iconic locations such as Queen Elizabeth National Park or Bwindi National Park, where you can enjoy unique experiences like wildlife viewing and trekking to meet the gorillas. If you wish to combine different regions and activities, planning for 10 to 12 days would be ideal to make the most of your stay.
What type of accommodation to choose in Uganda?
The accommodation on offer in Uganda is varied, ranging from simple lodgings to more luxurious options, suitable for all types of traveler.
For an authentic wilderness experience, luxury safari tents and high-end lodges located in national parks offer comfort and privacy, often with services such as a spa, swimming pool, gourmet restaurants and guided activities, while allowing you to enjoy uninterrupted views of wildlife and landscapes.
For those seeking total immersion in nature, bush camps offer a more rustic but still comfortable experience, with spacious tents, home-cooked meals and guided activities to explore the wildlife and surroundings.
Finally, for travellers on a more modest budget, there are guesthouses, hostels or base camps close to the national parks, offering simpler, more economical accommodation, while remaining close to the must-see sites.
What budget for a trip to Uganda?
The budget for a trip to Uganda is often higher than for other safari destinations due to the specific fees associated with certain activities, such as gorilla and chimpanzee tracking. In 2024, the gorilla tracking permit cost 800 USD per person, while the chimpanzee tracking permit cost 100 USD per person. These permits are required to take part in tracking safaris in national parks, such as Bwindi National Park for gorillas and Kibale National Park for chimpanzees.
In addition to these costs, you’ll also need to take into account entrance fees to national parks, transportation to safari areas (car rental with driver), and accommodation, which can vary depending on the type chosen (from budget to luxury). On average, the cost of a safari including these elements can reach between €200 and €600 per person per day, excluding airfares.
Please note that rates are generally higher during the high season (June to October), when demand for gorilla permits and other activities is highest.
Get inspired
Travel Journals
Discover our travel stories and sample itineraries to inspire you in the creation of your own 100% personalized trip.
