Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa to enter Uganda or does tt cover East Africa?

Yes you are required to purchase a tourist visa before you enter Uganda. Tourist visas can be bought in advance via the embassy or consulate in your country or simply purchased upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport or at any land border. A single entry tourist visa lasting 90 days costs US$ 50 per person and Photos are not required.

If you are planning to combine Uganda with Rwanda or Kenya we highly recommend to request for the East African Tourist Visa instead of a single entry visa which will save you some bucks. This special visa costs US$100 per person and allows 90-days multiple entries to Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya. Meanwhile Tanzania is not yet a member of this East African community tourist Visa plan and is not covered in this special visa arrangement.

Can I use my ATM Card or Credit Card in Uganda?

A good number of local and international banks accept ATM cards or Visa credit cards for money withdrawal in Uganda. While you can withdraw a limited amount of cash per day from ATM machines in Kampala, there are very few opportunities to withdraw cash once you are on safari/upcountry in Uganda.

Payments by credit card in Uganda can attract additional charges of between 3.5-10%, occasionally more. Do check with lodges /restaurants or service providers in advance, if you plan to pay by credit card.

We therefore advise you to bring cash and have money changed Uganda shillings upon arrival in Kampala. US dollars, British pounds and Euros are easy to change. However, for some expenses, like the payment of a tourist visa at the airport/border, it is easier to have dollars available. It is nolonger possible pay for tourist activities with US dollars or any other currency at park entry points, only Visa cards or local mobile money (cashless pay) are accepted and in most cases through a licensed tour and travel company,

Please note: US dollar bills issued before 2009 are NOT accepted in Uganda. Exchanging small denomination dollar bills (anything less than a USD50 bill) attracts a lower exchange rate. all dollar bills must be NEW, very clean (free from dirt or ink should not be torn), Bills newer than 2017 (7 years old at most) are most preferred and will be accepted in all places.

Are travelers cheques accepted in Uganda?

Unfortunately travelers cheques are no longer accepted in Uganda.

Is mastercard accepted in Uganda?

This is not a very popular thing in Uganda, however some places are picking up, to be on a safer side carry cash and your Visa debit card.

What should I tip in Uganda?

How much to tip in Uganda depends entirely on your level of satisfaction and your culture of course, but even a small tip to show your gratitude will be highly appreciated. You might consider a minimum of USD 3 per activity or $10 per day if you are happy with the service of your safari guide and 5-10% tip in upmarket hotels, you should never feel quilty if you dont have what to tip or not willing to, afterall you already paid for such services.

What is the best time to visit Uganda?

The best time to visit Uganda is during dry seasons: between December and February, and between June and August, This is when conditions are particularly good for trekking to see mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. Game spotting in national parks is also good at this time, as well as end of February and end of spetember.

Officially, Uganda's dry seasons are from December/January through to mid-March and from June through mid-September except that we are having climate changes and this may change abit.

Most rain falls in October-November and April-May. However, this doesn't mean that it rains all day, nor does it mean it will rain every day. Usually there's a tropical shower at night or a shorter shower in afternoon hours but in Uganda you are sure that after rain, sunshine will come!

Most rain falls in October - November and April-May. However, this doesn't mean that it rains all day, nor does it mean it will rain every day. Usually there's a tropical shower at night or a shorter shower in afternoon hours but in Uganda you are sure that after rain, sunshine will come!

The weather is no reason to avoid traveling in the wet season - you might even consider it because of the easy availability of gorilla permits and favorable hotel environment with little or no congestion.

On a serious note however, as in the rest of the world, the East African climate is changing, making it more difficult for us to predict the weather during your safari. However, in Uganda the temperature is very stable and pleasant, with sunshine almost on each of the 365 days a year. During the day, the temperature averages between 23 and 27°C, although in some places it can be quite chilly at night.

One remarkable aspect about Uganda safaris is: whether you travel in the dry, dusty months or in the wet season, you will never find the crowded tourism like in Kenya or Tanzania. If you spot a lion or leopard, it is very likely that you will be the only one to see it - even in peak season!

Are vaccinations required for my Uganda safari?

A number of different vaccinations are recommended and/or required before entering Uganda. A certificate proving you have had the Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into Uganda. Immunizations against DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio) and Hepatitis A are recommended as well.

Besides bringing mosquito repellent, we also advise you to take malaria 'prophylactics' (prevention medication).

For the latest Uganda travel health advice, please check one of the travel health web sites or contact us at Musana tours and travel. We're always happy to give free Uganda travel advice!

Will I get sick when I'm in Uganda?

You are unlikely to fall sick while you are in Uganda but do take all recommended preventive measures. If you take any regular medication, please bring it with you. Take your Malaria medication as directed - before, during and possibly after - your visit to Uganda (depending on the Malaria prophylactic you take).

Although HIV/AIDS infection rates are lower than many countries in Africa, the prevalence of HIV/AIDS infection is certainly higher than in most Western countries. Tourists and visitors to Uganda sometimes engage in risky behavior that they wouldn't engage in back home. Play safe. Please take your sexual health seriously.

Is Uganda a safe country for tourists?

Uganda is a very safe country to visit.

Although Uganda has lived through a turbulent history, the country is safe, stable and welcoming. Ugandans' hospitable nature is legendary! You will be warmly welcomed wherever you go by the country's friendly residents.

The most popular National Parks are situated in the south (west) of Uganda and are safe to visit. The border area with Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo remains stable and all National Parks and wildlife reserves are well protected by the Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. Tourism is hugely important for Uganda's economy and a Tourism Police force has been created to protect visitors.

If you are unsure about the safety of travel to Uganda, please contact Musana tours and travel.

Your travel insurance company or foreign office may offer information about travel to Uganda. However, in our experience, these bodies have in most cases misinterpreted our situation by relying on a side of caution and do not necessarily know what is happening on the ground in Uganda at the time.

For example, as of today (2020) , some still advise against travel to Kidepo Valley National Park in Northern Uganda, when it is actually safe to travel there by road and also has a fly in airstrip, moreover it's the ultimate wilderness where you will see the three cats in one place.

Your safety is our absolute priority and you can be rest assured that we will always give you the best Uganda safety travel advice.

Is Kampala a safe city for tourists?

Kampala is one of the safest capital cities in (East) Africa - but of course like in any other cities elsewhere, petty thieves may try and take advantage of people who leave phones and valuables unattended to. Your driver guide will give you all the information you need to make sure your trip is safe and incident free.

Feel free to ask questions!

How safe is it for homosexuals to visit Uganda?

Despite some negative press, Uganda is a safe country for gay and lesbian travellers. However, Uganda is a conservative country and we recommend discretion.

Can I do the gorilla tracking in Uganda?

If you are interested in a mountain gorilla safari in Uganda or Rwanda you are required to buy a gorilla permit at least 6months before your safari, however musana tours and travel can also arrange last minute permits in case you did not book on time, it is sometimes inconveniencing due to the high congestion. As only eight people are allowed to visit each gorilla group per day, the demand is high. We are happy to book your gorilla trekking permits and organize your gorilla safari.

Crucial details:

To buy your gorilla permit, you will need to provide us with your full names, nationality, and passport number, preferred date of trekking and gorilla permit fee. The minimum age for visiting the gorillas is 15 years. A certain level of fitness is required for the gorilla tracking, and you may not be allowed gorilla trekking if you fall sick.

How can I pay for my safari?

Once you have confirmed the final itinerary with us, you will be asked to pay a deposit which is a percentage of the total trip cost. Gorilla permits must be paid for in full at the time of booking. Note that availability of accommodation and permits is not guaranteed until officially confirmed by musana tours and travel. Accommodation, permit and activity reservations will be made as soon as payment has been received on our account.

For your convenience, the balance payment should be settled before the start of your safari. We accept payment by Bank transfer in either dollars or Euros to our bank accounts in Uganda or you can pay your reservation fees here.

Please note that all bank charges are at the expense of the client. Contact our desk Officer For banking details

Contact

Accommodation in Uganda falls into three categories: budget, mid-range or luxury.

Budget accommodation may be simple and basic rooms, bandas or tents, with double/twin beds and mosquito nets when necessary. Private bathrooms are not always available and you may have to share bathroom facilities.

3-star, 4-star and 5-star accommodation offer comfortable rooms or luxury furnished safari tents with a private bathroom. Flush toilets and hot and cold running water are available. Mosquito nets will be provided where necessary.

All our lodges are carefully selected and frequently visited by Musana tours and travel staff, to monitor quality and service levels. The majority of safari lodges and hotels are small-scale, offering a unique location and ambiance, and usually have a maximum of eight to ten rooms.

Has the Ugandan government implemented the planned increase in VAT on tourist lodges and hotels?

No. Although in June 2013, it was reported in the press that the Ugandan government planned to charge additional VAT on tourist accommodation, we are delighted to report that kind of tax was never implemented in fact the government of uganda has done and continues to do all that is possible to make all types of accommodation as affordable as possible.

What vehicles do Musana tours and travel use for safaris?

Musana tours and travel provide open roof 4 Wheel Drive safari vehicles for all our tours. Our comfortable Land Cruisers offer seats for three to seven people. Vehicles all have a pop-up roof for game viewing.

We also own several 4 Wheel Drive mini buses which can take a maximum of 8 people. To ensure that everybody has a window seat to enjoy the best views of Uganda, we usually limit the number of people in these 4 Wheel Drive safari minibuses.

Limiting the number of people per vehicle also means plenty of legroom and luggage storage. The challenging condition of the roads means that safari vehicles are serviced by MUSANA TOURS AND TRAVEL company contract mechanics before and after every trip.

I am traveling on my own. Can I book my safari with Musana tours and travel?

Single/ solo travelers are very welcome! However, to minimize your costs we would suggest joining a group. Although we can try and arrange this for you, we cannot guarantee we can find a group whose interests, budget and preferred route correspond to yours, especially during low season.

If you would like to stay in a single room please notify us well in advance and we will try to meet your request. Please bear in mind that single rooms are not common and it is more likely that you will be offered single occupancy of a double room. A single room supplement will apply.

How many people are in your group safaris?

We offer tailor-made safaris for any number of participants. There is no minimum number for a group tour, although the bigger the group, the more attractive the price will be.

What is included in the price of my Uganda or East African safari?

• Ground transport in a comfortable four wheel drive safari vehicle
• A visit to all places detailed in the program
• The service of an experienced English speaking driver/safari guide
• National park entrance fees
• Activities as detailed in the itinerary (Except for those that are marked optional)
• Overnight in the named accommodations, based on sharing a twin or double room or single occupancy.
• Full board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) unless otherwise specified in your travel itinerary
• 2 liters of bottled mineral water per person per day while travelling in the Musana tours and travel vehicle
• Government Taxes
• Park Ranger Fees

What is excluded in the price of my Uganda or East African safari?

• International flights
• Tourist visa (available at the airport) better if you buy it prior to save time.
• Meals and snacks that are not mentioned in the itinerary
• Beverages (other than the bottled mineral water provided in the safari vehicle)
• Tips and gratuities for safari guides and/or park rangers
• Laundry
• Gorilla trekking or chimpanzee trekking permit (Unless agreed upon/ mentioned as included in your package)
• Optional activities that are mentioned in the program
• Items of a personal nature (Toiletries, camera batteries, souvenirs)
• Travel insurance
• International payment transaction costs

In most cases, we will specify the extra charge of optional activities in your itinerary. If not, or if it is not clear to you, please contact Musana tours and travel so we can confirm any additional fee(s).