FAQ & Travel Information
What To Know Before Traveling To East Africa
Getting ready for your East African safari tour is an exciting time, one that’s sure to be full of emotions, packing, and more than a few questions!
Here we are happy to answer some of the frequently asked questions we get about planning a safari in Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania, traveling to East Africa, money & tipping, safety & security, visa questions, and other helpful travel tips.
If you are looking for more information about the countries we travel to, we invite you to check out our detailed pages on Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania.
If you don’t see your question answered here, feel free to send us a message!
Tour Planning
Yes, of course, it’s our pleasure to provide custom Uganda safari tours. If you would like to switch out activities from the Uganda tours you see listed on our site, or add in others, you’re more than welcome. We want to make sure that your tour really is YOUR tour! We love personalising the itinerary to match your interests and requirements – that’s what we’re here for. Please, just ask! Feel free to send us a message to get started planning your next East African adventure.
Yes, of course, it’s our pleasure to provide custom safari tours to Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania. If you would like to switch out activities from the tours you see listed on our site, or add in others, you’re more than welcome. We want to make sure that your tour really is YOUR tour! We love personalising the itinerary to match your interests and requirements – that’s what we’re here for. Please, just ask! Feel free to send us a message to get started planning your next East African adventure.
Though Uganda is located on the equator and has a pleasant climate the whole year round, many people find the best time to travel to Uganda is during its dry seasons. However, be aware that the tropical climate also has its rainy seasons, though there are always plenty of hours of sunshine. Rainy season is from March to May, and November to December.
In Uganda, the average daytime temperature is between 22 and 30°C. In the mountain regions the temperature may be lower, especially at night.
Rwanda, just south of the equator, enjoys the same weather conditions. Tanzania is situated near the equator and enjoys a pleasant climate with warm temperatures. The average daytime temperature in Tanzania ranges from 25 to 30°C, providing comfortable conditions for travelers.
However, Tanzania, too, has distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, which is typically considered the best time to visit, occurs from June to October. During this period, rainfall is minimal, and the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for wildlife safaris and outdoor activities.
If you’re wondering what exactly you need to bring on your Uganda safari tour, we have you covered. We have a complete Uganda safari tour packing list that we give to every client before their trip begins.
In general, comfortable, casual clothes are advised for safari tours. Don’t wear bright colours on the game drives or primate tours. For the primate tours, sturdy shoes/boots with ankle support are required. As the nights can sometimes be quite cool, you should bring a sweater or fleece jacket. A light rain jacket is recommended, especially for primate tours in higher regions.
If you’d like to take a look at this safari tour packing list ahead of time, we’re happy to send it over to you. Just reach out to our team to ask!
We offer budget, standard and luxury accommodation options in most locations. We will discuss the options with you when personalising your tour.
The classification of budget, standard and luxury lodges and hotels is not necessarily based on the classifications utilised in Europe.
We will, however, endeavour to choose the best hotel or lodge available that meets your needs. We are also sure that any “lack of frills” in some accommodation is more than made up for in their beautiful locations and genuine African hospitality.
Whilst we will provide you with clear information about the hotels and lodges we use, we will also provide links so that you can take a look at the hotel’s own website and read guest reviews, should you so wish.
Yes, children are welcome on our Uganda safari tours, Rwanda safaris, and Tanzania safaris.
However, not all accommodations are equipped for children and the option to add an extra bed in a room might not always be available.
For primate tours, children under 15 years are not allowed. If your child will be approaching 15 while they’re traveling, however, we can request permission.
If you plan to travel with children, let us know and we will help to ensure that the arrangements are suitable for your family adventure.
“Nature walks” on safari tours are very easy and manageable by most people with an average level of fitness and no specific mobility issues.
Our Uganda and Rwanda Primate tours are off-track tours and partly in steep terrain. They can last up to 6 hours; therefore, a good general fitness is advisable. The Porters will be happy to assist where necessary.
A hiking/trekking tour of several days in the Rwenzori Mountains needs an above average level of fitness, up to mountaineer, depending on your interest and the height you trek to.
Please ask us if you have any questions about the level of fitness needed for the activities on your tour.
We recommend that you take advice from an insurance service to determine what level of cover you need for your trip.
As an additional “peace of mind” service for all our tour guests, registration with the AMREF Flying Doctors Tourist Evacuation Scheme is automatically included in all tours. This provides 24/7 access to advice and information through their Medical Helpline and evacuation to hospital in Nairobi in the event of a medical emergency. You will be provided with more details when you book. This service is NOT a substitute for your own insurance cover.
We recommend booking mountain gorilla permits 3-6 months in advance, especially if you are planning to come during one of the dry seasons.
We typically recommend our guests come for about 15 days. This allows you to see a great variety of wildlife and landscapes, while also still getting time to relax at each destination. We do offer shorter experiences, like a 4-day mountain gorilla tour, as well as longer tours.
Yes, we are happy to provide a German-speaking guide for your tour.
You can charge your cameras, phones and other electronic devices in most hotels. You might bring extra batteries for your camera and an extension lead with extra outlets, since the number of outlets is often limited. Some hotels don’t have power during specified hours and power cuts might occur.
British style plugs with three pins are used. If your device does not accept 240 V, 50 HZ, you will need a voltage converter.
It is also usually possible to charge small, USB-powered devices in the vehicles.
You can charge your cameras, phones and other electronic devices in most hotels. You might bring extra batteries for your camera and an extension lead with extra outlets, since the number of outlets is often limited. Some hotels don’t have power during specified hours and power cuts might occur.
British style plugs with three pins are used. If your device does not accept 240 V, 50 HZ, you will need a voltage converter.
It is also usually possible to charge small, USB-powered devices in the vehicles.
Most hotels and lodges have Wi-Fi, although the coverage may not extend beyond the lounge and dining area. Due to the remote location of many lodges, connectivity can easily be affected by a number of issues and cannot be guaranteed.
Mobile internet access is available across Uganda, but coverage is very variable and cannot be guaranteed. Network stability is affected by the terrain and weather conditions. 4G is usually available in larger towns, otherwise access is 3G at best.
English and Swahili are the official languages in Uganda. There are around 40 different languages used across the country, but you’ll find that English is well-spoken in most tourist areas.
In Rwanda, a number of different local languages are also spoken. The official languages are Kinyarwanda, French, Swahili and English. English is a fairly recent addition, added because it is used in neighbouring countries. However, although it is now used throughout secondary and tertiary education, it’s not yet widely spoken. Staff in tourist facilities generally speak it, however.
In Tanzania, English and Swahili are widely spoken, though there is no single language spoken natively by a majority of the population. Overall, there are said to be 126 languages spoken in Tanzania, with 58 of them being vigorously used.
The vehicle we use depends on the group size, where you will be travelling to, and the season. Vehicles are four wheel drive and driven by experienced drivers.
For most tours, it will either be:
Toyota Hiace, or similar: For comfort, we recommend a maximum of 6 people in the minivans, each seated at a window seat. However, this vehicle is capable of carrying 7 to 8 people.
Landcruiser, or similar: We use these for smaller groups, up to 6 people, each seated at a window.
The choice of vehicle also depends on the pricing of your tour.
We provide every tour party with a mobile phone with prepaid airtime. You can use this during your safari to contact your driver/guide in the evenings if you have any problems or need to change the plans for the following morning. You can also call our office if you have any problems or concerns.
This phone can also be used to receive incoming calls from family and friends.
A soft suitcase or bag is easier to handle and to fit in the vehicle. Hard suitcases are more difficult to stow on journeys and more likely to get damaged. A small day pack is advisable for any trekking or hiking tour, to carry your camera and water.
If your safari tour includes internal flights, these carry a 15kg maximum luggage allowance per person. The flight operator may charge you extra if your luggage is over this weight. Let us know if you are likely to have extra baggage and we will help you find the best solution.
Uganda and Tanzania both use Eastern Africa Time (EAT), UTC/GMT +3 hours.
Rwanda uses Central Africa Time (CAT), UTC/GMT +2 hours
The countries do not adjust for Daylight Saving Time.
For primate tours, children under 15 years are not allowed.
If your child will be nearing 15 years of age when you travel, we can make a special request to the government. Please get in touch with us to learn more.
Accommodation options on East African safaris can vary widely in terms of price and quality. Here’s a general breakdown of what’s typically meant by different budget categories:
Budget accommodations – These are usually simple and basic, with shared facilities (such as bathrooms) and minimal amenities. They can include campsites, dormitory-style lodges, and budget hotels. Prices for these accommodations can range from around $20 to $150 per night.
Mid-range accommodations – These lodges and camps tend to offer more comfortable and private accommodations, with en-suite bathrooms and a wider range of facilities such as swimming pools, restaurants, and bars. They may also offer guided walks or game drives as part of the package. Prices for these accommodations can range from around $150 to $500 per night.
Luxury accommodations – These are the most luxurious and exclusive lodges and camps, often located in remote or pristine wilderness areas. They offer spacious, private rooms or tents with en-suite bathrooms, high-end amenities, gourmet dining, and personalized service. They may also offer spa services, private game drives, and other high-end activities. Prices for these accommodations can range from around $500 to $1,500 or more per night.
It’s worth noting that prices can vary widely depending on the location, time of year, and other factors.
Our general advice for traveling throughout Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania is to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Avoid clothing that is too revealing or tight-fitting.
Traveling In East Africa
Major roads in Uganda are generally in reasonable condition. However, minor roads, including those near national parks, can vary in condition, especially during the rainy season. Due to the technical nature of a Uganda safari tour, we don’t recommend self-drive in Uganda.
In Rwanda, the roads are good. Due to the road quality and the smaller size of the country, confident drivers may wish to consider a self-drive option.
Major roads in Uganda are generally in reasonable condition. However, minor roads, including those near national parks, can vary in condition, especially during the rainy season. Due to the technical nature of a Uganda safari tour, we don’t recommend self-drive in Uganda.
In Rwanda, the roads are good. Due to the road quality and the smaller size of the country, confident drivers may wish to consider a self-drive option.
In Tanzania, roads in popular national parks are good. Self-drive is a possibility.
Uganda enjoys a lovely tropical highland climate with temperatures averaging around 26°C (78°F) during the day and 16°C (61°F) at night, offering comfortable temperatures year-round.
Rwanda has daily temperatures ranging from 12°C to 27°C, with cooler temperatures in the mountainous regions.
Rainy season in both Uganda and Rwanda is from March to May, and November to December.
Tanzania experiences a tropical climate, with coastal areas and Zanzibar being hot and humid, averaging around 30°C (86°F) during the day and 22°C (72°F) at night. Inland areas, including the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, have cooler and drier temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) during the day and dropping to as low as 5°C (41°F) at night. Tanzania has two rainy seasons: the long rains from March to May and the short rains from October to December.
Allowances for visitors to Uganda/Rwanda over 18 years:
- 1 litre of spirits
- 1 litre of wine
- max 0,5 litre perfume and/or eau de toilette, of which not more than 0.25 l may be perfume
- 250gms tobacco products
Banned Imports:
Narcotics, pornography, used computers and appliances, counterfeit items, cultural artefacts and explosives are not permitted. Some medication may also be restricted; check before you travel.
For Tanzania:
- One packet of Cigarette containing 200 sticks, cigars, tobacco and snuff not exceeding 250 grams
- One liter of Whisky and liquors;
- Two liters of Wine ;
- Perfume and toilet water not exceeding half litre, of which not more than a quarter may be perfume.
While Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania are not yet 100% equipped for people with disabilities, it is still quite possible to go on – and enjoy – a safari in East Africa.
We will note that elevators/lifts are not available in most of the accommodation and paths are often unmade (loose earth or stones) and with steps. Still, you will primarily be in a safari vehicle and we can select the more accessible accommodations
Please do not hesitate to contact us so that we can support you on your journey.
British style plugs with three pins are used in Uganda. If your device does not accept 240 V, 50 HZ, you will need a voltage converter.
In Rwanda, French or Swiss Plugs are used.
You can charge your cameras, phones and other electronic devices in most hotels. You might bring extra batteries for your camera and an extension lead with extra outlets, since the amount of outlets is often limited. Some hotels don’t have power during specified hours and power cuts might occur.
British style plugs with three pins are most commonly used. If your device does not accept 240 V, 50 HZ, you will need a voltage converter.
You can charge your cameras, phones and other electronic devices in most hotels. You might bring extra batteries for your camera and an extension lead with extra outlets, since the amount of outlets is often limited. Some hotels don’t have power during specified hours and power cuts might occur.
Smoking in public places is strictly prohibited. Some restaurants and bars do provide specially designated smoking sections for customers, however.
There are several mobile providers including MTN and AIRTEL. Reception is quite good everywhere in Uganda, though there are some remote areas where you might not have reception.
For $5 (USD) you can purchase a SIM card. Airtime and SIM cards of the major companies are available all over Uganda. Your phone needs to be unlocked and able to access any network.
Similar to Uganda, providers like MTN and Airtel operate in Rwanda, ensuring reliable connectivity in most urban and populated areas.
Tanzania, like its neighboring countries, has a range of mobile service providers, including major companies like Vodacom, Tigo, and Airtel.
For More Information About Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania
Money
Once we have finalised your itinerary we ask for a 50% deposit plus the full cost of any permits. The balance is due not less than 60 days before the start date of your adventure.
Payment can be made by bank transfer to our US Dollar account, details of which will be provided.
Once we have finalised your itinerary we ask for a 50% deposit plus the full cost of any permits. The balance is due not less than 60 days before the start date of your adventure.
Payment can be made by bank transfer to our US Dollar account, details of which will be provided.
Hotels and restaurants may accept credit cards in the bigger cities and although this facility is becoming more common, it’s still not widespread. Where it is possible to pay by card, you may also end up paying additional charges of up to 10%. We recommend that you don’t rely on a debit/credit card as your primary method of payment.
Foreign exchange bureaus are common in both Uganda and Rwanda and will change major currencies. Cash is the preferred option for payment almost everywhere. You can always pay in the local currency and many larger establishments also accept USD. Please note US dollar notes prior to 2009 are not accepted. Make sure you check the year of your dollars prior to your trip. It’s also worth avoiding bringing damaged or defaced notes as these may be refused.
Traveller’s cheques are not commonly accepted and if they are, only with a very poor exchange rate. Our advice: Do not bring traveller’s cheques.
The local currency in Uganda is the Uganda Shilling (UGX).
The local currency in Rwanda is the Rwandan Franc (RWF).
The local currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSh).
The local currency in Uganda is the Uganda Shilling (UGX).
The local currency in Rwanda is the Rwandan Franc (RWF).
The local currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSh).
Yes, there are ATMs in most towns in East Africa and most, but not all, accept Visa and Mastercard. Be sure to tell your bank that you will be travelling to avoid them blocking unusual transactions.
Also, bear in mind that you may spend several days without passing through a town with an ATM, so be sure to carry enough cash for any expenses you may have.
It is customary to tip for service in local bars and restaurants.
A tip of 5% is very acceptable and 10% is generous. Please don’t use foreign coins, such as £1 (GBP) or €1 (EUR), as they have no value at all. Tipping does make a difference to the people who serve you as wages are often low, but it is entirely at your discretion and should reflect the service given.
For local services, we advise the following minimum tip levels:
Your driver/guide: $10 (USD) per person per day
Porters: $20 (USD) per ½ day, $40 (USD) per day, $5 (USD) for hotel porters
Rangers and guides: $10-15 (USD) per group
Please note, these are just guidelines. You should feel free to decide whether, and how much, to tip.
Safety & Security
Yes, it is safe to travel to Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania. They are considered to be perfectly safe enough for you to enjoy your tour here without undue concern. As within your home country, it is always wise to take precautions to ensure your own safety, such as avoiding walking alone at night. Visiting the towns, cities and national parks is safe.
The vast majority of tourist visits to Uganda pass without any safety or security issues, but as with any foreign travel, it is wise to be aware of some situations where you should pay special attention. It is advised not to travel after sunset, especially outside Kampala as the roads are in poor condition and often unlit. The Kampala – Entebbe road is the exception. In towns, you are advised to travel in groups and/or take a taxi and to avoid walking along the roads. The best way is to travel with a guide who knows the area and any potential hazards.
Again, as in your own country, sadly these days there is always a chance of localised disturbances or terrorist activities, but these are rare. We keep up to date with local and national news and receive updates and advice through the Association of Uganda Tour Operators. You are advised to seek advice from your own Government travel advice service if you have concerns about the general safety and security situation in Uganda.
Yes, it is safe to travel to Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania.
They are considered to be perfectly safe enough for you to enjoy your tour here without undue concern. As within your home country, it is always wise to take precautions to ensure your own safety, such as avoiding walking alone at night. Visiting the towns, cities and national parks is safe.
The vast majority of tourist visits to East Africa pass without any safety or security issues, but as with any foreign travel, it is wise to be aware of some situations where you should pay special attention.
In Uganda, it is advised not to travel after sunset because the roads outside Kampala are in poor condition and often unlit. The Kampala – Entebbe road is the exception.
In towns, you are advised to travel in groups and/or take a taxi and to avoid walking along the roads. The best way is to travel with a guide who knows the area and any potential hazards.
Again, as in your own country, sadly these days there is always a chance of localised disturbances or terrorist activities, but these are rare. We keep up to date with local and national news and receive updates and advice from each country’s tour guide association, and will keep you informed of any updates.
Uganda is a fairly conservative society and public displays of affection are not common, or socially acceptable. Similarly, outbursts of anger or frustration will be met by embarrassment by many Ugandans. Raising your voice is considered rude.
Same-sex sexual relations have been punishable in Uganda since colonial times. The maximum sentence is life. Homosexuality is also strongly taboo across all social classes. For this reason, public restraint is required. Restraint is also recommended with regard to wearing clothes that may be considered inappropriate (e. g. short mini skirts, revealing tops).
American Embassy in Kigali, Rwanda
2657 Avenue de la Gendarmerie, Kacyiru, P.O. Box 28, Kigali, Rwanda
(+250) 252 596 400, Kigali.usembassy.gov
British High Commission in Kigali, Rwanda
Kacyiru, Avenue du Parc, P.O. Box 576, Kigali, Rwanda
(+250) 252 573 100, gov.uk/world/organisations/british-high-commission-kigali
Canadian High Commission in Nairobi, Kenya (Responsible for Rwanda)
Limuru Road, Gigiri, P.O. Box 1013, Nairobi, Kenya
(+254) 20 366 3000, canadainternational.gc.ca/kenya/
French Embassy in Kigali, Rwanda
17 Boulevard de l’Umuganda, P.O. Box 645, Kigali, Rwanda
(+250) 252 570 800, ambafrance-rw.org/
German Embassy in Kigali, Rwanda
KN 5 Road, Kigali Heights, 6th floor, Kigali, Rwanda
(+250) 252 551 800, kigali.diplo.de/
Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Kigali, Rwanda
Plot 82, Kacyiru Boulevard, P.O. Box 6785, Kigali, Rwanda
(+250) 788 310 200, netherlandsandyou.nl/your-country-and-the-netherlands/rwanda
Swiss Embassy in Kigali, Rwanda
KG 7 Avenue, P.O. Box 6579, Kigali, Rwanda
(+250) 252 575 335, eda.admin.ch/kigali
American Embassy in Kampala, Uganda
Plot 1577 Ggaba Road, P.O. Box 7007, Kampala Uganda
(+256) 414 259 791 , ug.usembassy.gov
British High Commission in Kampala, Uganda
4 Windsor Loop, P.O. Box 7070, Kampala Uganda
(+256) 312 312 000 ; kampala.bhcinfo@fco.gov.uk / www.gov.uk/government/world/uganda
Canadian Honorary Consulate in Kampala, Uganda jubilee Insurance Centre
Plot 14, Parliament Avenue, Kampala, P.O. Box 20115 Kampala Uganda
(+256) 41-425-8141 , kampala@canadaconsulate.ca
French Embassy in Kampala, Uganda
16, Lumumba Avenue, P.O.Box 7212, Kampala Uganda
(+256) 414 304 500
ambafrance.kampala@diplomatie.gouv.fr / ug.ambafrance.org
German Embassy in Kampala, Uganda
Plot No. 15, Philip Road, Kololo Kampala, P.O. Box 7016 Kampala Uganda
(+256) (41) 450 11 11 , info@kampala.diplo.de / www.kampala.diplo.de
Netherlands Embassy in Kampala, Uganda
Rwenzori Courts, 4th Floor, plot nr. 2, Nakasero Road, Kampala Uganda
(+256) 41 434 6000 , kam@minbuza.nl / www.nederlandwereldwijd.nl/landen/uganda /
www.netherlandsandyou.nl/your-country-and-the-netherlands/uganda
Swiss Honorary Consulate in Kampala, Uganda
Plot 6, Archer Road, P.O. Box 8769, Kampala Uganda
(+256) 414 233 854 / kampala@honrep.ch
American Embassy in Kampala, Uganda
Plot 1577 Ggaba Road, P.O. Box 7007, Kampala Uganda
(+256) 414 259 791 , ug.usembassy.gov
British High Commission in Kampala, Uganda
4 Windsor Loop, P.O. Box 7070, Kampala Uganda
(+256) 312 312 000 ; kampala.bhcinfo@fco.gov.uk / www.gov.uk/government/world/uganda
Canadian Honorary Consulate in Kampala, Uganda jubilee Insurance Centre
Plot 14, Parliament Avenue, Kampala, P.O. Box 20115 Kampala Uganda
(+256) 41-425-8141 , kampala@canadaconsulate.ca
French Embassy in Kampala, Uganda
16, Lumumba Avenue, P.O.Box 7212, Kampala Uganda
(+256) 414 304 500
ambafrance.kampala@diplomatie.gouv.fr / ug.ambafrance.org
German Embassy in Kampala, Uganda
Plot No. 15, Philip Road, Kololo Kampala, P.O. Box 7016 Kampala Uganda
(+256) (41) 450 11 11 , info@kampala.diplo.de / www.kampala.diplo.de
Netherlands Embassy in Kampala, Uganda
Rwenzori Courts, 4th Floor, plot nr. 2, Nakasero Road, Kampala Uganda
(+256) 41 434 6000 , kam@minbuza.nl / www.nederlandwereldwijd.nl/landen/uganda /
www.netherlandsandyou.nl/your-country-and-the-netherlands/uganda
Swiss Honorary Consulate in Kampala, Uganda
Plot 6, Archer Road, P.O. Box 8769, Kampala Uganda
(+256) 414 233 854 / kampala@honrep.ch
American Embassy in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
686 Old Bagamoyo Road, Msasani, P.O. Box 9123, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
(+255) 22 229-4000, tz.usembassy.gov/
British High Commission in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Umoja House, Garden Avenue, P.O. Box 9200, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
(+255) 22 229 0000, gov.uk/world/organisations/british-high-commission-dar-es-salaam
Canadian High Commission in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
38 Mirambo Street, P.O. Box 1022, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
(+255) 22 211 0800, canada.ca/tanzania
French Embassy in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
1 Ali Hassan Mwinyi Road, P.O. Box 2349, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
(+255) 22 211 61 40, ambafrance-tz.org/
German Embassy in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Umoja House, Garden Avenue, P.O. Box 9541, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
(+255) 22 2117400, dar-es-salaam.diplo.de/
Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Corner Ali Hassan Mwinyi Road / Garden Avenue, P.O. Box 9200, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
(+255) 22 219 57 00, netherlandsandyou.nl/your-country-and-the-netherlands/tanzania
Swiss Embassy in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Oysterbay, Kaunda Drive No 335, P.O. Box 2508, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
(+255) 22 266 88 11, eda.admin.ch/dar-es-salaam
Visa
Yes, you do need a tourist visa to enter Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania. There are exceptions for passport holders from a limited number of mainly African countries. It is recommended to apply online for a visa to avoid waiting time on arrival.
You can find the Uganda tourist visa at this link here, the Rwanda tourist visa here, and the Tanzania tourist visa here.
If you’re interested in combining your trip to Uganda and Rwanda — and even adding Kenya into the mix — you can get the East African Tourist Visa here, which is good for multiple entries into each of the three countries.
For Rwanda, the tourist visa is valid for up to 90 days and allows multiple entry into the country. The cost is USD $50.
For Uganda, the tourist visa is valid for up to 90 days with single entry into the country. The cost is USD $50.
For tours covering both Uganda and Rwanda, it is possible to get an East Africa Tourist Visa which is valid for 90 days and allows for multiple entry into Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya. We recommend this for anyone undertaking a combined tour. The cost is $100.
For further information and to apply:
Uganda: https://visas.immigration.go.ug/
Yes, you do need a tourist visa to enter Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania. There are exceptions for passport holders from a limited number of mainly African countries. It is recommended to apply online for a visa to avoid waiting time on arrival in Rwanda and Tanzania. Uganda does not issue visas on arrival.
You can find the Uganda tourist visa at this link here, the Rwanda tourist visa here, and the Tanzania tourist visa here.
For Rwanda, the tourist visa is valid for up to 90 days and allows multiple entry into the country. The cost is USD $50.
For Uganda, the tourist visa is valid for up to 90 days with single entry into the country. The cost is USD $50.
For Tanzania, the tourist visa is valid for up to 90 days and the visa fee for all visitors coming for tourist purposes is 50 USD. However, American citizens must apply for a multiple entry visa, for which they must pay a fee of 100 USD for twelve months.
For tours covering both Uganda and Rwanda, it is possible to get an East Africa Tourist Visa which is valid for 90 days and allows for multiple entry into Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya. We recommend this for anyone undertaking a combined tour. The cost is $100.
For further information and to apply:
Uganda: https://visas.immigration.go.ug/
Rwanda: https://irembo.gov.rw/rolportal/en/web/dgie/newhome
Tanzania:
https://immigration.go.tz/index.php/fees/visa-fees
If you’re interested in combining your trip to Uganda and Rwanda — and even adding Kenya into the mix — you can get the East African Tourist Visa here, which is good for multiple entries into each of the three countries.
If you’re interested in combining your trip to Uganda and Rwanda — and even adding Kenya into the mix — you can get the East African Tourist Visa here, which is good for multiple entries into each of the three countries.
For tours covering both Uganda and Rwanda, it is possible to get an East Africa Tourist Visa which is valid for 90 days and allows for multiple entry into Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya. We recommend this for anyone undertaking a combined tour. The cost is $100.
For further information and to apply:
Uganda: https://visas.immigration.go.ug/
To get a Uganda or Tanzania tourist visa, you’ll need a valid passport with an expiry date at least 6 months after your arrival date, along with a Yellow Fever vaccination card.
In Rwanda, it is necessary to have a yellow fever vaccination.
To get a Uganda, Rwanda, or Tanzania tourist visa, you’ll need a valid passport with an expiry date at least 6 months after your arrival date, along with a Yellow Fever vaccination card.
For Rwanda, it is possible to get a 30-day visa on arrival without prior application.
For Tanzania, it is possible to get a visa on arrival without prior application. For non-US nationals, the Tanzania Visa costs $50, and the Tanzania Visa on Arrival for US citizens costs $100.
Uganda does not currently offer a visa on arrival. You will need to fill out your visa application online beforehand.
Health & Vaccinations
Yellow Fever vaccination is compulsory for all visitors to Uganda and Rwanda and you will need to show your certificate at Immigration, on arrival.
We recommend that you consult your Doctor or appropriate travel health organisation for advice about vaccinations and other health-related issues, at least 8 weeks prior to departure. Malaria is present in Uganda and Rwanda, so you should also seek advice about appropriate preventative medication against this.
Yellow Fever vaccination is compulsory for all visitors to Uganda and Rwanda and you will need to show your certificate at Immigration, on arrival.
We recommend that you consult your Doctor or appropriate travel health organisation for advice about vaccinations and other health-related issues, at least 8 weeks prior to departure. Malaria is present in Uganda and Rwanda, so you should also seek advice about appropriate preventative medication against this.
Local tap water is not safe to drink.
As a general rule, East Africa is safe to travel through. If you have specific questions or want to know about certain regions you’ll be traveling to, we are always happy to respond to your questions.
Check with your tropical institute or your doctor for the right treatment needed. Malarone is expensive but often recommended for holidays of less than 4 weeks as it has very few side effects. Other popular/effective anti-malaria drugs are one such as doxycycline. All malaria medication should be taken on a full stomach otherwise it can make you feel queasy.
Even if you are taking anti-malaria drugs, it is still possible to contract the disease as no prescriptions are 100% effective. Malaria often gives the same symptoms as flu. If you feel at all unwell during your trip it is very important that you inform your guide. Should you be taken to hospital for a malaria test, always request a full blood test and not the rapid test (finger prick).
Check with your tropical institute or your doctor for the right treatment needed. Malarone is expensive but often recommended for holidays of less than 4 weeks as it has very few side effects. Other popular/effective anti-malaria drugs are one such as doxycycline. All malaria medication should be taken on a full stomach otherwise it can make you feel queasy.
Even if you are taking anti-malaria drugs, it is still possible to contract the disease as no prescriptions are 100% effective. Malaria often gives the same symptoms as flu. If you feel at all unwell during your trip it is very important that you inform your guide. Should you be taken to hospital for a malaria test, always request a full blood test and not the rapid test (finger prick).
Schistosomiasis: Also known as bilharzia is found in most of the Ugandan waters. The parasites live on snails on the shores of freshwater lakes and rivers. Bilharzia, if left untreated, can damage your liver. In general it is advised that you do not enter any of the rivers and lakes (there is also the risk of crocodiles and hippos) However, Lake Bunyonyi is free from hippos, crocs and bilharzia!
Let’s start planning your next safari.
Warren Ankwasa
Founder, Kikooko Africa Safaris
Our tailor-made safaris are designed to offer you the best possible value to make your East African experience a memorable one.
As a boutique tour operator, we are happy to personalise your trip budget and package according to your needs. When you’re ready, send us a message.
We’ll be in touch within 2 business days with ideas for your next adventure.
Safari Inspiration – Straight To Your Inbox
Wondering where in Africa to go on your first safari? How to budget for a safari? Want the latest baby mountain gorilla photos?
Each month, we send tips and stories straight from Kikooko’s headquarters in Entebbe, Uganda, sharing our unique perspective on where to go, what to do, and the impact your travels can have.
