OVerview
Planning a trip to Uganda? Known as the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda offers a unique blend of wildlife, rich culture, and stunning landscapes. From tracking mountain gorillas to exploring the Rwenzori Mountains, here are answers to frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip.
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park well known for the tree climbing lions, the soda ash lake that attracts thousands and pink flamingos, one of Tanzania’s biggest elephant population and breathtaking scenery!
Located in the northern part of Tanzania, Lake Manyara National Park is 126 kilometers west of Arusha Town. The park covers an area of 330 sq km / 125 sq mile including a lake surface of 230 sq km / 89 sq miles
Lake Manyara has a big number of elephants, so many giraffes; zebras, wildebeests, impalas, waterbucks, and warthogs, the less-known shy Kik’s dik dik as well as the Klipspringer that dwell along the ramps of the escarpment. Leopards are hosted within the scattered forests and escarpment, while the healthy population of lions that are widely known for their unique tree climbing capability. In addition, you will not fail to notice the very large number of baboons in this park which can live in sizeable troops of up to 200 members.
There are a number of fascinating tourist attractions that can be explored and a number of activities such as bird watching, game drives, visit maasai bombas.
Location
Most visitors to Uganda need a visa. Citizens of many countries can apply for an e-visa online, which is a convenient option. You can also obtain a visa on arrival at major entry points, but it is recommended to apply in advance for smoother entry. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your arrival date. Nationals of East African Community (EAC) countries do not need a visa.
Vaccinations are an important part of preparing for your trip. Common recommendations include Yellow Fever (mandatory if coming from a country with risk), Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and Malaria prevention (medication and insect repellent). Always consult your doctor or a travel clinic several weeks before your trip to make sure you are fully vaccinated and have enough time for any necessary treatments.
Uganda is generally safe for tourists, especially in popular areas like Kampala, Entebbe, and national parks. However, as with any destination, exercise caution in busy urban areas, avoid traveling alone at night, and secure your belongings. It’s also a good idea to check travel advisories before your trip and stay updated on local conditions.
Uganda is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. The dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, are ideal for trekking gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or exploring national parks. These months offer more manageable hiking conditions and less rainfall. The wet season (March to May and October to November) is perfect for birdwatching, as migratory birds are in the country.
The official currency in Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and tour operators in cities, but cash is preferred in rural areas. ATMs are available in major cities like Kampala and Entebbe, but always carry enough local currency when traveling to more remote areas. Foreign currencies like US Dollars are accepted at some places, but it’s best to exchange money for local currency when possible.
The official language of Uganda is English, and it is widely spoken in cities and tourist areas. Swahili is also commonly understood, especially in the eastern and central regions. Uganda is a multilingual country, with over 40 indigenous languages spoken across different regions. While English and Swahili are sufficient for most travellers, learning a few basic words in local languages such as Luganda or Runyankore can enhance your travel experience.
Getting around Uganda can be an adventure in itself. While Uganda has domestic flights that connect major towns and national parks, most travellers rely on road transport. Private hire cars and safari vehicles are common for safaris and travel to national parks. Public transportation like buses and shared taxis (matatus) is available but can be less reliable and crowded. For short distances, boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) are a popular, though less safe, option.
Ugandan cuisine is diverse, with staples like matoke (plantains), posho (cornmeal), rice, beans, and chapati. The most common dishes are stews made from beef, chicken, or goat meat. For a local treat, try Rolex, a popular street food consisting of an egg rolled in a chapati. Ugandans love fresh fruits like bananas, pineapples, and mangoes. While there are many delicious food options, make sure to drink bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of 10% is often included in the bill, but it’s always nice to give a little extra for good service. Safari guides and hotel staff often receive tips based on their service. It’s common to tip about $10 per day for guides and drivers. Small tips for porters or housekeeping staff are also appreciated.
Most major cities in Uganda have good mobile phone coverage, and you can buy a local SIM card upon arrival at the airport or from authorized dealers. Safaricom and MTN are two of the biggest mobile providers, offering affordable prepaid options for data and calls. Wi-Fi is available in many hotels, cafes, and restaurants in urban areas, but speeds may vary in more remote regions.
