Is Uganda Safe for Travel in 2024?

Uganda
Safety Score
48

Warnings & Dangers in Uganda

Overall Risk

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Uganda is not the safest country to visit, but if you use common sense and adhere to some rules when traveling, you are unlikely to face severe problems in this country.

Transport & Taxis Risk

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : HIGH

Public transport in the country is underdeveloped, also, in Uganda, poor infrastructure, and often impassable roads. The state ranks high in the ranking of the most unsafe driving and road conditions. Consider this when planning your trip here. Taxi can be a convenient way to travel, use only licensed services.

Pickpockets Risk

PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH

Petty pickpocketing is the most common crime in this country. Watch your pockets, especially if beggars and children are around. Never leave backpacks and bags unattended. Don't shine with a lot of cash and expensive devices.

Natural Disasters Risk

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

Uganda is regularly exposed to numerous natural disasters, including droughts, earthquakes, floods, landslides, and volcanoes. Study the situation in the country before your visit.

Mugging Risk

MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM

Violent assaults and robberies are rare in Uganda, but tourists are advised not to travel to remote and non-tourist destinations in the country without a guide. It is also best not to walk the streets late at night and alone.

Terrorism Risk

TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM

Terrorists are likely to try to launch attacks in Uganda. Seizures can be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. Avoid any political or religious demonstrations and strikes.

Scams Risk

SCAMS RISK : HIGH

Scams in Uganda usually concern tourists and locals who wanting to overprice everything for tourists. For souvenirs, taxi rides and excursions. Be careful, double-check everything, and order goods and services only in licensed places.

Women Travelers Risk

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : HIGH

Uganda is not the safest travel destination for women. Women are not recommended to be here alone. It is also better not to go out late at night, even in the company. Avoid contact with local men and carefully lock your doors at night.

How Safe Is Uganda for Tourists?

Uganda is not the safest country to travel to.

The crime index here ranges from medium to high.

The main problems are related to robberies, car theft, violent crimes, and high levels of corruption.

Uganda is gradually developing for the better.

For example, the country’s capital, Kampala, has become an essential center for East African trade.

However, there is still a high crime rate, and travelers should be cautious when moving around Uganda.

Travelers are advised never to walk alone at night.

Head north to Murchison Falls National Park and Ajay Game Wildlife Sanctuary is perfectly safe.

AIDS/HIV infection rate is very high (even though lower than in neighboring countries).

Ebola and Marburg hemorrhagic fevers have been endemic within some areas of the country.

It is recommended to stay in tourist areas.

Western tourists still catch the attention of the locals.

Be prepared for the fact that they can point fingers at you and draw attention in every possible way.

However, these are usually harmless actions.

There are also many beggars on the streets, especially among children.

It is recommended not to give them money and sweets.

It is also worth taking care of your malaria medication here, buy it directly in Uganda, and avoid mosquito bites.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Uganda?

Visitors to Uganda must obtain a visa on arrival to Uganda or from one of the Ugandan diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries. All visitors must hold a passport valid for six months.

Which Currency Is Used in Uganda?

The shilling is the currency of Uganda. Officially divided into cents until 2013, the shilling now has no subdivision.

How's the Weather like in Uganda?

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

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Uganda?

Entebbe International Airport is the principal international airport of Uganda. It is located about 45 minutes from the main campus of Kampala International University and approximately 40.5 kilometers by road south-west of the central business district of Kampala, the capital and largest city of Uganda. It is the only international airport in Uganda.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

Just like anywhere else, the travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

What Are Some Things to Do in Uganda?

In this country, you can see the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains and the giant freshwater Lake Victoria. The fauna of Uganda is rich and diverse; here, you can meet chimpanzees, as well as see rare species of birds. The famous Bwindi National Park, home to mountain gorillas, can only be reached on foot. Murchison Falls National Park, located in the northwest of the country, has a 43-meter waterfall and is home to wild animals, including hippos.

Is the Water in Uganda Safe to Drink?

The water quality in Uganda is low and not accessible to nearly 60 percent of the population. Tap water isn’t drinkable.

Is Uber Safe in Uganda?

There is an Uber service in Uganda. The fare will depend on the duration of the trip and the time of day.

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