Things to Do in Uganda

About Uganda

Where the equator crosses ancient kingdoms and mist-clad mountains rise above the Great Rift Valley, Uganda pulses with a raw vitality found nowhere else in Africa. This is a land where emerald rainforests give way to sprawling savannas, where thundering waterfalls feed the mighty Nile, and where the warmth of its people has earned it the title "Pearl of Africa." In Uganda, nature doesn't just exist—it overwhelms, captivates, and transforms all who venture into its embrace.

Travel Tips

• Currency and Cash: Always carry Ugandan Shillings in smaller denominations (1,000-20,000 notes) as many local markets, boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis), and rural areas don't accept cards or large bills. ATMs are reliable in Kampala and major towns, but withdraw sufficient cash before heading to national parks or remote areas.

• Gorilla Trekking Permits: Book your gorilla or chimpanzee trekking permits at least 3-6 months in advance through the Uganda Wildlife Authority, as they're limited to a few permits per day and sell out quickly, especially during dry seasons (June-August and December-February).

• Boda-Boda Safety: When using boda-bodas (the most common form of transport in cities), always insist on wearing the helmet provided, negotiate the fare before departing, and consider using apps like SafeBoda or Uber Boda for added safety and fixed pricing.

• Yellow Fever Certificate: Carry your yellow fever vaccination certificate at all times, as it's mandatory for entry into Uganda and officials frequently check it at Entebbe International Airport and land borders—without it, you may be vaccinated on the spot or denied entry.

When to Visit

Uganda's optimal visiting periods are June through September and December through February, which coincide with the dry seasons when temperatures range from 18-28°C and gorilla trekking trails in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga are most accessible with minimal mud. March through May brings the long rains with daily afternoon downpours that can make unpaved roads impassable and reduce wildlife visibility, though budget travelers benefit from 20-40% accommodation discounts and near-empty parks during this period. October and November constitute the short rainy season with intermittent showers that still allow for activities but create challenging conditions for tracking mountain gorillas as the steep terrain becomes treacherously slippery. Peak season (July-August and December-January) requires gorilla permit bookings 4-6 months in advance at $700 per person and coincides with higher humidity levels (70-80%) that make trekking more physically demanding, while December sees festive celebrations and the popular Nyege Nyege Festival in Jinja typically occurs in September, drawing international crowds to the Nile's source. Weather-sensitive visitors should note that even during dry seasons, afternoon showers occur in mountainous regions, and Uganda's equatorial location means minimal temperature variation year-round, with altitude being a greater factor than season—Kampala stays consistently warm while higher-elevation areas like Kabale can drop to 10°C at night regardless of month.