Uganda Tours

Uganda is generally considered a safe country to visit. It has made significant progress in terms of safety and security in recent years, and tourism is a growing industry in the country. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take certain precautions and be aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Uganda is a conservative country with laws that may be different or stricter than you are used to in other countries, and that does change from time to time. We recommend you chat with our destination specialists to get the latest information before you plan your trip.

The official language of Uganda is English, and it is widely spoken and understood across the country.

Additionally, Uganda is a linguistically diverse country with over 40 recognized indigenous languages. Some of the major local languages spoken in Uganda include Luganda, Ateso, Lango, Acholi, Runyankole, Runyoro, and many others. These languages are predominantly used by different ethnic groups within Uganda and are often spoken in rural communities.

The currency of Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). 

When visiting Uganda, it is recommended to have some Ugandan Shillings in cash for day-to-day expenses, especially when dealing with smaller vendors, local markets, or rural areas where card payments may not be accepted. Currency exchange services are available at major airports, banks, and authorized exchange bureaus in urban areas.

It's also worth noting that counterfeit currency can be a concern in Uganda. To avoid counterfeit notes, it's advisable to exchange money at reputable establishments and carefully inspect the banknotes for security features when receiving change or making purchases.

The best time to visit Uganda is during the country's two dry seasons, which are from December to February and from June to August. These months offer the most pleasant weather conditions with lower chances of rainfall, making them ideal for wildlife viewing and gorilla trekking.

During the dry seasons, the vegetation is thinner, and animals tend to gather around water sources, increasing the likelihood of wildlife sightings in national parks such as Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park. The dry seasons also provide better accessibility to remote areas and offer optimal conditions for hiking and other outdoor activities.

However, it's important to note that Uganda's climate can vary across different regions, and weather patterns can be unpredictable. Some areas, such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, experience rainfall throughout the year, so it's advisable to be prepared for changing weather conditions regardless of the time of your visit.

If you're interested in gorilla trekking, it's recommended to plan well in advance and secure permits, as availability is limited.

Uganda is renowned for its incredible gorilla trekking experiences, and there are two main national parks where you can see gorillas in their natural habitat: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Located in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to approximately half of the world's remaining mountain gorilla population. The park offers several gorilla trekking trails, where visitors can embark on guided hikes to observe gorillas up close. Bwindi is known for its lush, dense forests and steep terrain, providing a truly immersive gorilla trekking experience.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Situated in southwestern Uganda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is part of the larger Virunga Massif, which spans across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. While Mgahinga is the smallest national park in Uganda, it offers an opportunity to see the rare and endangered mountain gorillas. Gorilla treks in Mgahinga involve traversing the volcanic slopes of the Virunga Mountains, offering unique scenic views.

Both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park require permits for gorilla trekking, and it's advisable to book well in advance due to limited availability. Talk to our friendly Destination Specialists for advice.

The best time to see gorillas in Uganda is during the country's two dry seasons: December to February and June to August. These months offer favorable weather conditions with lower chances of rainfall, making it easier to navigate the trekking trails and increasing the chances of a successful gorilla sighting.

However gorilla trekking is possible throughout the year in Uganda, and each season has its own unique advantages. The wetter months, particularly from March to May and September to November, offer lush green landscapes and fewer tourists, which can result in a more intimate and immersive experience with the gorillas.

Regardless of the time of year, it's essential to plan and secure gorilla trekking permits well in advance, as they are limited and can sell out quickly.