GENERAL
INFORMATION ABOUT UGANDA
Getting there.
Entebbe International Airport, which lies 40km from the capital
Kampala, is serviced by a number of international airlines, including
SN Brussels, British Airways, South African Airways, Kenya Airways,
Air Tanzania, Rwandair Express, Egypt Air and Ethiopian Airlines.
Uganda can also be reached overland from Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania.
On
Arrival
Customs and immigration officials are polite and efficient, and
a visa - for those who require one - can be purchased on the spot
at Entebbe International Airport or at any overland border. Foreign
exchange and ATM facilities are available at the airport, which
is also serviced by several shops and restaurants. Most midrange
to upmarket hotels in Kampala and Entebbe will arrange airport
transfers by request.
Health
A certificate of yellow fever vaccination is required. All visitors
should take malaria prophylactic drugs. It is advisable to drink
bottled rather than tap water.
Money
The unit of currency is the Uganda shilling. The US dollar is
traditionally the hard currency of preference, but Euro and Pound
Sterling are also widely accepted. Hard currency cash can be changed
for local currency at banks and private bureaux de change in all
large towns, but travellers’ cheques are not widely accepted
outside Kampala. Local currency can be drawn against Visa and
other major credit cards at selected ATMs in Kampala, at Entebbe
International Airport, and in a few other large towns.
Language
Educated Ugandans are generally fluent in English, which is the
official language. Of 30-plus different indigenous languages,
Luganda serves as something of a lingua franca.
When
to Visit
Uganda can be visited at any time, though mountain hikes, gorilla
tracking and other forest walks are more challenging during the
rains, which generally peak over mid-September to November and
March to May.
What
to wear
Daytime temperatures are generally warm to hot, so bring lots
of light clothing. Evenings are cooler, especially at high altitudes,
so carry a couple of light sweaters too. Those who intend to hike
on the mountains will be exposed to alpine temperatures and should
pack accordingly. Solid walking shoes and sturdy clothing are
ideal for forest walks. Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunglasses
and a waterproof jacket.
What
to Bring
A valid passport is mandatory, and visa requirements should be
checked before you travel. To make the most of the game reserves
and national parks, carry binoculars and field guides. Photographers
will need a zoom lens for wildlife (70-300 or similar). Print
film and developing is available in Kampala. Toiletries and other
essentials can be bought in the cities.
Driving
Driving is on the left side. Visitors without experience of African
roads are advised to organise a vehicle with a driver rather than
self-drive.
Tipping
Tipping is not standard practice at local hotels and restaurants,
but it will always be appreciated. It is normal to tip 5-10% at
tourist-oriented restaurants. Guides and drivers should always
be tipped.
