Uganda Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Uganda.
Healthcare System
Uganda has a tiered healthcare system with public, private, and not-for-profit facilities. Public facilities are often under-resourced. Private hospitals and clinics in Kampala and Entebbe offer a better standard of care but can be expensive.
Hospitals
For serious issues, head to private hospitals in Kampala: Case Medical Centre, International Hospital Kampala (IHK), or Nakasero Hospital. A&R Hospital in Entebbe is also reputable. For remote areas, know the location of the nearest clinic.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (chemists) are widespread in towns and cities. They sell many medications without prescription. Always check expiry dates. Bring a sufficient supply of any prescription medications you require, along with the original prescription.
Insurance
Not legally required but HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Insurance must cover complete medical evacuation (medevac) to Nairobi or South Africa for serious conditions.
Healthcare Tips
- Carry a complete first-aid kit including antiseptics, bandages, and rehydration salts.
- Always confirm the cost of treatment upfront at private facilities and contact your insurance provider immediately in an emergency.
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing and opportunistic bag/theft snatching, from car windows in traffic.
Poor road conditions, reckless driving, poorly maintained vehicles, and pedestrians/livestock on roads make driving hazardous.
Malaria is endemic throughout Uganda, year-round.
Risk of traveler's diarrhea, typhoid, hepatitis A, and cholera from contaminated food/water.
Occasional demonstrations or political rallies can turn confrontational or violent.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
An overly friendly local offers unsolicited help (with directions, currency exchange, finding a hotel). The goal is to lead you to a business for commission, overcharge you, or create a distraction for theft.
Individuals posing as police officers ask to check your documents or currency for 'irregularities' to solicit a bribe or steal money.
Vendors, taxi drivers, and even some lodges quote significantly higher 'muzungu' (foreigner) prices for goods and services.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Transportation
- Use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps (SafeBoda for motorbikes, Uber/Yego for cars).
- Avoid public minibus taxis (matatus) and motorcycle taxis (boda bodas) unless experienced, as they are involved in many accidents.
- Never travel at night by road outside cities due to poor visibility, animals on roads, and higher crime risk.
Money & Valuables
- Use a money belt or hidden pouch for passports, cash, and cards. Only carry what you need for the day.
- Use ATMs inside banks or shopping malls during daylight hours. Be discreet and check for skimming devices.
- Keep digital copies of your passport, visa, and insurance documents in cloud storage.
Accommodation
- Choose accommodations with good security (guards, gates, safes).
- Use the room safe for valuables or leave them at the hotel front desk safe.
- Lock doors and windows at night.
General Conduct
- Dress modestly to respect local customs and avoid unwanted attention.
- Ask for permission before photographing people, in rural areas.
- Be aware of your surroundings, in urban areas, and avoid walking alone at night.
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Solo female travelers can have a positive experience in Uganda but may face frequent verbal harassment, catcalling, and unwanted attention, in cities. This is often more annoying than threatening, but vigilance is key.
- Dress conservatively (cover shoulders and knees) to reduce unwanted attention.
- Avoid walking alone at night, in urban areas. Use trusted taxi services.
- Be firm and clear when declining unwanted conversation or advances. Ignoring can be effective.
- Consider joining group tours for activities like safari, if traveling solo.
- Choose reputable, well-reviewed accommodations.
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexual acts are illegal under Ugandan law (Penal Code). The Anti-Homosexuality Act, which includes severe penalties, has been enacted and struck down in the past, and a new version was signed into law in 2023. It criminalizes same-sex relations and the 'promotion' of homosexuality.
- Avoid all public displays of affection (PDA).
- Be extremely discreet about your sexual orientation or gender identity. Do not discuss it publicly.
- Same-sex couples should avoid sharing a room in budget or local guesthouses; high-end international hotels are generally safer.
- Be cautious on dating apps, as they can be used for entrapment.
- Understand that seeking help from local police for LGBTQ+-related issues is highly risky and not recommended.
Travel Insurance
Absolutely essential. Quality medical care is expensive and often requires upfront payment. Medical evacuation for serious illness or injury is a frequent necessity and can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
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