Going on safari in Uganda?
time zone
GMT + 3 hours.
language
English is the official national language. Luganda, the most common of the many indigenous languages, is also widely spoken.
currency
The Ugandan shilling is issued in denominations of 1000, 5000, 10000, 20000 and 50000 shillings for notes, while coins are issued in denominations of 10, 50, 100, 200 and 500 shillings.
money matters
The local currency you may need during your stay in Uganda can be obtained at authorised facilities (such as banks and foreign exchange bureaus). Foreign currency can also be changed at the airport on arrival. Many establishments will only change USD issued after the year 2000. Be aware that only paper currency will normally be accepted for exchange. Travellers cheques are not widely accepted outside of Kampala.
In Uganda credit card use is usually restricted to major banks and hotels and most shops will not accept other methods of payment other than cash. Gorilla Forest Camp accepts Visa, MasterCard, Amex and JCB credit cards.
tipping
Tipping is not compulsory, nor are there any fixed amounts. The customary gratuity is about 10% of the cost of the service. Tips are usually given in Uganda Shillings or US Dollars.
- Driver-Guide in Bwindi: a tip of about US$10 per transfer is appropriate for your transfer driver.
- On a Gorilla Track : If you choose to take a porter (highly recommended), the minimum recommended tip is US$15 per traveller per track. Guides (usually 1 per group), Trackers (usually 2-3 per group) and Security personnel (usually 2-4 per group) do earn salaries. A recommended tip of about US$20 per day of tracking per traveller may be placed in the appropriate tip box for your gorilla group (found at Park Headquarters) for distribution amongst the staff.
arrival & departure formalities
Each traveller must be in possession of a passport that will remain valid for at least six months beyond the completion of his/her trip. Travellers should check for visa requirements pertaining to their citizenship, as entry requirements can vary.
weather
In Uganda days are warm, but it almost invariably rains, except in the very driest months of January and February. It can get very cool at night. The year-round weather stays within this range. A suggested clothing list is available on request.
Click here for Temperature & Rainfall Charts.
health
You should discuss health precautions for your travel itinerary with a qualified health professional at least six weeks before you depart. If you are arriving from a country where yellow fever is endemic, you are required to have a yellow fever vaccination. Anti-malarial medication is strongly recommended for all travelers to East Africa. It is also recommended that all international travellers ensure that their tetanus, Hepatitis A, and polio vaccines are up-to-date. Do not drink (or brush your teeth with) the tap water. Mineral water is available at the Gorilla Forest Camp.
electricity
In Uganda, electricity runs at 220/240 volts. You may want to bring an international converter kit complete with a set of adapter plugs as lodges are unable to provide adapters. We do, however, suggest that you consider battery-operated appliances wherever possible - and bring a supply of extra batteries. However, be aware that overnight recharging may not be possible where generator use restricts the availability of electricity.
photography
Flash photography is prohibited when tracking gorillas. We recommend that you bring all the photographic equipment you will need from home, including an ample supply of film, additional memory cards and rechargeable batteries. Many travelers, viewing this as their “trip of a lifetime” for animal photography, bring more than one camera in case of a malfunction. Sun filters will help block glare and heat haze. A dustproof camera bag and an air brush will help protect your equipment from heavy dust.
If you plan to travel with digital photographic and/or video equipment, make certain to pack the specific charging apparatus for each piece of equipment (as well as the appropriate socket plug adaptor and voltage converter if required).
When photographing people, especially members of the local tribes, always ask permission first. Because so many local people are asked for permission to be photographed, many will expect a tip or an outright fee for this. Always be considerate of anyone's desire not to be photographed. There are some places where photography is prohibited, and these areas are usually clearly marked.
clothing
Dress on safari is entirely casual. Because it can be dusty, neutral colours are most practical for game viewing. Remember to include one or two smart casual outfits for dining. Temperatures tend to be cooler in the early morning and after sunset - but warm up by midday. To be prepared for such temperature variations and to maximise the versatility of your travel wardrobe, we recommend packing lightweight clothing that can be layered. Casual clothing of "breathable" fabric (such as cotton) is the most comfortable.Pack a heavier jacket, sweater, and pair of slacks made of warm, lightweight material (such as wool). Good sunglasses and sun block lotion are essential for protection from the strong sun. You may also want to bring your own fold-up sun hat. Binoculars will maximise the enjoyment of game viewing and bird watching. A compact and lightweight pair is suggested. A clothing list for Gorilla tracking is available on request.
