ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

As part of your Uganda Travel Information, travelers to Uganda require a visa, which can be obtained online or on arrival. For more detailed visa information, please refer to the Visa Information section below.

VISA INFORMATION

Recent passport-size photograph
Passport bio-data page (valid for at least 6 months)
Yellow fever vaccination certificate

Return ticket

Invitation letter for business meetings or events.

Typically, 72 hours

Up to 90 days

High Commission of the Republic of Uganda – Pretoria:

Address: 882 Stanza Bopape Corner Balmoral Street, Arcadia

Phone: +27 12 342 6031 / 2 / 3

Email: ugacomer@mweb.co.za

Website: High Commission of Uganda – Pretoria

WEATHER

Dry Season:

  • Northern Uganda: December through February; marked by lower humidity and stable weather.
  • Southwestern Uganda: Less pronounced dry periods from June to August; generally, less rainfall.

Wet Season:

  • Northern Uganda: March through November; characterized by increased rainfall and lush landscapes.
  • Southwestern Uganda: Two wet seasons, mid-September through November and March through May; frequent heavy rains.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Country: Uganda
Capital City: Kampala
International Airports: Entebbe International Airport (EBB)
Area: 241,038 square kilometres
Population: 47 million (2024 est.)
Time Zone: East Africa Time (EAT, UTC+3)
Religion: Predominantly Christian, with significant Muslim and indigenous beliefs
Language: English (official)
Luganda (widely spoken)
Swahili (official)
Various indigenous languages
Currency: Ugandan Shilling (UGX)
Exchange Rate: Approximately 1 USD = 3,700 UGX (subject to change; please check the latest rates)
Credit Card Payment Availability: Widely accepted in major cities and hotels
ATM Accessibility: Available in major cities and towns
Dialing Code: +256

TRAVEL TIPS

Electricity: 240V, 50Hz.
Plug types G and D are used
Water: Tap water is generally not drinkable.
Bottled water is recommended
Business Hours: Typically, 08:00 – 17:00, Monday to Friday
Banking Hours: Typically, 08:30 – 15:00, Monday to Friday
Photography Restrictions: Some areas, especially in national parks and private properties, may have restrictions.
Always seek permission before photographing.
Tipping: Not compulsory but appreciated; 10% is customary in restaurants
Vaccination Requirements: Yellow fever vaccination is required for those from endemic regions; other vaccinations may be recommended (consult a travel health professional)
Dress Code Restrictions: Modest attire is appreciated.
formal attire may be required for business events.
Peculiar Customs to Observe: Ugandans value politeness and respect; greetings are important.
Avoid public displays of affection.

FESTIVALS

  • Nsimbi Festival: Celebrates Ugandan culture, music, and dance, typically held in Kampala.
  • Kampala International Theatre Festival: Showcases local and international theatre performances, usually held in August.
  • Rwenzori Mountain Marathon: An annual marathon event that combines athleticism with the beauty of the Rwenzori Mountains, held in June.
  • Nyege Nyege: A collective in Kampala that promotes outsider music, primarily electronic, by African artists.

MAP

“I know of no country that is more beautiful than Uganda on Earth Planet.”

– Museveni