Travel tips & practical information
Everything you need to know as a first time traveller to Uganda and across East Africa.
Introducing the writer:
The story about how a Scandinavian came to find herself in Uganda...
My name is Karoline, I’m Danish, and I’m a student of global history, history of ideas and anthropology at Aarhus University.
I have travelled around Uganda and East Africa many times with Johnson, and I now work together with him, supporting his local tour agency, Makune Journeys.
My university friend brought me to Uganda in 2024, almost by coincidence, and it became my first time visiting the country.
He had lived near Fort Portal for eight months, so I was lucky to be introduced to Uganda by someone who already knew the area well. He had gained a lot of knowledge about how to travel around, what to see, and what to expect, which made my first experience feel much easier.
It was through him that I was introduced to Johnson, as Johnson was the one who drove us around the country during that first trip.
Since then, I’ve been on many trips around Uganda and East Africa with Johnson, we’ve become good friends, and I’ve encouraged him many times to start his own travel agency, where he can offer his services as both a guide and a driver, because I honestly believe he does it so well.
He is an excellent driver, his cars are well-maintained, and he is trustworthy, punctual, patient, and understanding. These qualities are especially important for travellers who may be visiting Africa for the first time.
What makes Johnson special is that he does not see travellers as just another client. It is not as formal or rigid as travelling with a guide and driver can sometimes feel. It’s more like traveling with a new friend, though he's still very professional. Johnson is genuinely interested in making people feel safe, comfortable, relaxed and welcome.
Whether you are young or old, travelling on a big budget or a small one, Johnson treats everyone with the same respect, patience, and interest. This for me is maybe the most important thing, as neither me nor my family came to Uganda with a big budget.
One of the things I like most about travelling with a local driver/guide is that you get to experience the country through local eyes. You see more than just the usual tourist highlights – you also gain a better understanding of everyday life, culture, people, and places that you might not discover on your own.
Today, after many good travels around Uganda, I help Johnson with ensuring a good, personal and quality communication, when it comes to seeking and meeting new people that have interest in traveling in East Africa whether in person or online.
I know how good communication and aligning expectations is important before planning a trip to Africa, especially for travellers coming from Western countries to Africa the first time, wanting to support local travel agencies.
Many first-time visitors have questions, concerns, and expectations, and I want to help make that process easier, clearer, and more personal.
Everything you need to know as a first-time traveller to Uganda!
To begin with I’ve written practical information, tips and tricks, dos and don’ts and helpful advice on the most important things you need to know before travelling from a Western country to Uganda.
My perspective is of course a Danish one, so I’ve followed mostly what the Danish Foreign Ministry and Danish authorities’ advice.
(Updated the 10th of August 2026)
In this guide you'll find information on...
Click on the topic you’d like to know more about.
-
Malaria
-
Malarone
-
Doxycycline
-
A good tip for taking the malaria medication
-
Mosquito repellent and always sleep under a net
-
Electrolytes
-
For nausea or vomiting
-
Sun and UV protection
-
Food poisoning & can I drink the tap water?
-
Vaccinations before travelling to Uganda
2. Ebola the Passenger Locator Form
-
E-visa
-
East Africa Tourist Visa
-
Visa in Entebbe Airport?
-
Visa on arrival – overland borders?
5. Flight routes – why does my flight have a stopover in Kigali?
6. What happens when you arrive at Entebbe Airport?
-
Currency? Cash, paying with card?
-
ATMs, Bank withdrawals?
-
Exchange from Euros and US Dollars to Ugandan Shillings?
-
Do you tip in Uganda?
8. Internet & SIM Cards in Uganda
9. Electricity plugs in Uganda
-
Is it safe?
-
Going out after dark?
-
Driving in Uganda: Road quality, night Driving, and routes to avoid
-
Boda bodas
-
Why going with a driver as a minimum is a good idea?
11. How to greet, how to behave and appropriate clothes according to the culture?
-
Weather, which clothes to wear?
12. Uganda has more of a service culture than you may be used to
14. People might ask for a picture and your WhatsApp number
15. Choosing Local: Why it matters when travelling in Uganda
Medications
Malaria
There is a risk of malaria throughout Uganda, so most travel health guides recommend taking malaria prevention medication when travelling in the country. Before your trip, it is always best to speak with your doctor, a travel clinic, or a vaccination centre, as the right medication can depend on your health, your trip length, and your personal situation.
Malarone
I have personally taken Malarone, also known as atovaquone/proguanil. This was prescribed through my doctor or local vaccination centre before travelling. Malarone is usually taken once a day, starting 1– 2 days before entering a malaria-risk area, continued every day during the trip, and then taken for 7 days after leaving the malaria area.
Doxycycline
Another common and morer mild malaria prevention medication is doxycycline, usually 100 mg once a day. Doxycycline is typically started on the arrival day or 1 day before arriving in a malaria-risk area, continued daily during the stay, and then taken for 28 days after leaving the area. I buy doxycycline at a pharmacy in Entebbe after arrival, where it is cheaper than in countries such as Denmark. However, I would still recommend getting medical advice before deciding which malaria medication is right for you.
A good tip for taking the malaria medication
With both types of medications, some people experience mild stomach issues, nausea, or vivid dreams, but many tolerate it well. A good tip is to take the tablet at the same time every day with a proper meal, as this can make it easier on the stomach and prevent nausea.
Mosquito repellent and always sleep under a net
In general, one of the most important things is to protect yourself against mosquito bites. This can be as simple as wearing long trousers and long sleeves around sunset, sleeping under a mosquito net, and using mosquito repellent such as DEET or another effective repellent.
I often also buy a cheap natural mosquito repellent at the Botanical Gardens in Entebbe before travelling further around Uganda.
Electrolytes
Electrolytes can be very useful when travelling in Uganda, especially because of the heat, long travel days, hiking, or if your stomach reacts to new food or bacteria. They help your body replace salts and minerals lost through sweating, diarrhoea, or vomiting.
I recommend bringing a small pack of electrolyte tablets or powder from home, or buying oral rehydration salts at a pharmacy in Uganda. They are easy to mix with bottled water and can make a big difference if you feel dehydrated, tired, dizzy, or weak.
For nausea or vomiting
I brought Metoclopramide “Orifarm” 10 mg, that was prescribed by my doctor. This type of medication can help with nausea – and it really works wonders.
The usual adult dose is 1 tablet, up to 3 times daily, but it should only be taken as advised by a doctor or pharmacist.
Sun and UV protection
Uganda is located close to the Equator, which means the sun can be very strong, even when it is cloudy.
I recommend bringing a good sunscreen from home, preferably SPF 30 or higher, as sunscreen can be more expensive or harder to find in some areas.
Around midday, when the sun is strongest, try to stay in the shade when
Food poisoning & can I drink the tap water?
In Uganda, I would not drink tap water unless it has been treated.
For visitors, the safer choice is sealed bottled water, or water that has been boiled or filtered. For drinking, brushing teeth, and ice, use bottled or boiled water. Even in restaurants and cafés, it is a good idea to ask the waiter to make fresh juices with bottled water – but this is usually already the custom in places that often serves travellers.
Food poisoning can happen when travelling, especially when your body is adjusting to new food, bacteria, or hygiene standards. If you get strong stomach pain, diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, or you feel very weak, do not wait too long before getting medical help.
A doctor can help you find out whether it is food poisoning, a stomach infection, or something else, and make sure you get the right treatment early. This is especially important if you are travelling on a tight schedule, as starting the right medication or rehydration treatment quickly can make a big difference.
Johnson can also be very helpful if you feel unwell during the trip, as he is an educated nurse. If you start feeling sick, it is always best to tell him early, so he can help you get in touch with a doctor or a proper medical clinic if needed.
Vaccinations before travelling to Uganda
Before travelling to Uganda, it is important to check which vaccinations you may need. The recommendations can depend on your age, health, previous vaccinations, how long you are staying, where you are travelling in Uganda, and what kind of activities you are planning.
I recommend booking an appointment with your doctor, travel clinic, or vaccination centre at least 4-6 weeks before departure. Some vaccines need time to work, and others may require more than one dose. Even if you are booking a last-minute trip, it is still worth speaking with a medical professional before you travel.
For Uganda, the yellow fever vaccine is especially important. Uganda requires a yellow fever vaccination certificate for arriving travellers aged 1 year and older, and many travel clinics recommend it for travellers to the country. Make sure you bring your yellow fever certificate with you, either physically or digitally, depending on what your clinic provides.
Other commonly recommended vaccinations for Uganda include hepatitis A, tetanus/diphtheria, and typhoid. Depending on your travel plans, your doctor may also recommend hepatitis B, meningitis, rabies, polio, cholera, or other vaccines.
Vaccinations can be quite expensive, especially if you need several of them before travelling. It is a good idea to check the prices early, so you have time to plan for this as part of your travel budget.
Ebola – the Passenger Locator Form
Uganda has introduced health and travel measures in response to the Bundibugyo Ebola Virus Disease outbreak linked to Uganda and the DRC. Travellers should always check the latest official information before departure, as health measures can change quickly.
At the moment, travel between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo is restricted, and flights to and from the DRC have been temporarily suspended as part of the outbreak containment measures.
When arriving at Entebbe International Airport, all travellers should expect to follow the preventive health measures put in place by the Ugandan authorities.
These include:
-
Using the hand-sanitising facilities provided at the airport.
-
Health screening for all arriving passengers, including international, domestic, transit and transfer passengers, as well as crew members.
-
Health screening for all departing passengers.
-
Completing the online Passenger Locator Form before travelling through Entebbe International Airport.
You can find the Passenger Locator Form here: https://poes.health.go.ug/declare
(Source: Uganda Civil Aviation Authority – Bundibugyo Ebola Virus Disease Health Measures for Entebbe
International Airport.)
Insurance
Travel insurance is important when travelling to Uganda. Even if you are healthy and do not expect anything to happen, it is always better to be covered in case you get sick, have an accident, lose your luggage, or need to change your travel plans.
Before you leave, make sure your insurance covers travel in Uganda and the activities you plan to do. This is especially important if you are going on safari, hiking, visiting remote areas, doing adventure activities, or travelling for a longer period of time.
In some situations, you may need to pay for e.g. medical treatment first and claim the money back later, so it is good to understand how your insurance works before you travel.
Save your insurance documents offline on your phone or bring a printed copy as well. It is also a good idea to save the emergency phone number for your insurance company.
My own insurance company includes worldwide travel coverage so it is already included in the insurance plan.
Visa
E-visa
When travelling to Uganda, most travellers need to apply for an e-visa before arrival. The Uganda evisa is applied for online through the official Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control portal.
The official visa application portal is: https://visas.immigration.go.ug
This is the only official Uganda e-visa application portal. Be careful with other websites that may look official but charge much higher fees or act as third-party agents. Uganda’s immigration authorities and embassies warn travellers about scam websites and unofficial portals.
A single-entry Uganda tourist visa costs around 50 USD, excluding possible service or bank fees. The application is usually simple, but you will normally need to upload:
-
A copy of your passport
-
A recent passport-size photo
-
Travel information and supporting documents, like the plane tickets, depending on the application type
It is a good idea to apply in good time before your trip, but not too early. The visa approval authorisation is valid for 90 days from the date of approval, so your travel dates should fit within that period.
The fastest I have personally received my Uganda e-visa was 3 working days after applying. However, processing times can vary, so I would not recommend leaving it until the last minute.
East Africa Tourist Visa
If you are planning to visit Uganda together with Rwanda and/or Kenya on the same trip, the East Africa Tourist Visa may be worth applying for.
The East Africa Tourist Visa costs around 100 USD and is valid for 90 days. It allows tourism travel between Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya. You can move back and forth between these three countries during the validity period, as long as you do not leave the East Africa Tourist Visa area.
The visa loses its validity if you leave Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya. It is also only for tourism purposes and cannot be used for work.
You apply through the visa system of the country where you will first enter. So, if Uganda is your first country of entry, you apply through the official Uganda e-visa portal and select “East African Tourist Visa” instead of the normal tourist visa.
Kenya is currently listed as part of the East Africa Tourist Visa together with Uganda and Rwanda, but visa rules can change. Always check the official immigration websites before applying, and do not rely only on older travel blogs or advice from other travellers.
I recommend applying online in advance and bringing a printed copy of your visa approval, together with your passport and yellow fever vaccination certificate.
A good tip for applying for these visas. Don’t be too over conscious about every requirement – most visas get approved. Always ask Johnson, if you have any questions.
Another useful tip is to have a website ready that can reduce the size of your files. If you search on Google for “compress PDF” or “reduce image size,” you will find several free websites that can make your documents smaller.
This can be very helpful when applying for the visa, as the website only accept files below a certain size, so it is good to know how to quickly make a file smaller.
Visa on arrival in Entebbe Airport?
It is best not to rely on getting a visa on arrival at Entebbe International Airport. Travellers should apply for their Uganda e-visa online before departure.
Having your visa approval ready before you travel makes the arrival process much smoother and reduces the risk of problems when boarding your flight or entering Uganda.
Some travellers may hear that visas can be arranged on arrival, but visa rules and airport procedures can change, and it’s not an easy option.
Visa on arrival – overland borders?
It may be possible to arrange a visa when crossing the land border into Uganda. I have personally done this when entering Uganda from Kenya through the Busia border. However, this is not something I would recommend relying on, as the process feels unofficial and may not always be guaranteed.
Be prepared that it can cost around 100 USD, and there may also be a need for a little extra. For this reason, I definitely recommend planning your journey in advance and applying through the official Uganda e-visa portal before travelling.
Having your e-visa approved before you arrive will usually make the border crossing much smoother and official.
When flying to Uganda from Europe, your flight will often include one or morstopovers. Many travellers arrive through airports such as Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, Addis Ababa, Nairobi, Amsterdam, Brussels.
Sometimes your flight may stop in Kigali, Rwanda before continuing to Uganda. This can be confusing the first time, but it is usually just part of the airline’s route.
In most cases, the plane makes a short stop in Kigali to let passengers get on or off before continuing to Entebbe.
So don’t worry, and stay on the same aircraft as they drop off passengers for Rwanda and load new passengers to go back to Europe.
What happens when you arrive at Entebbe Airport?
Entebbe International Airport is the main international airport in Uganda. When you arrive, the process is usually quite, straightforward, especially if you have prepared your documents in advance.
Before travelling, make sure you have:
-
Your passport
-
Your approved Uganda e-visa
-
Your yellow fever vaccination certificate
-
Your travel information, such as hotel address or contact person in Uganda
-
Any required health or passenger forms, if applicable at the time of travel
After landing, you will normally go through health screening first. This may include showing your yellow fever certificate and, depending on current health measures, completing or showing a passenger health form (e.g. the current Ebola Passenger Locator Form, that I have written about as mentioned above).
After that, you continue to immigration, where your passport and visa approval will be checked. The officer may ask simple questions, such as where you are staying, how long you will be in Uganda, and the purpose of your visit.
Once immigration is finished, you collect your luggage.
When you leave the arrivals area, you will usually find drivers, guides, hotel representatives, and taxi drivers waiting outside.
If you are travelling with Johnson or another local guide, I recommend agreeing clearly in advance where you will meet. It can also be useful to have their phone number saved on WhatsApp before you arrive – there is free Wi-Fi in Entebbe Airport, so you will be able to connect.
Money
Currency? Cash, paying with card?
Cash is still widely used, especially outside major cities. There are lots of ATMs but it is always a good idea to carry some cash with you when traveling in Uganda. The name of the local currency in Uganda is the Shilling (UGX).
Uganda is still a cash country and card payments are not common.Makes sure you always have Uganda Shillings (UGX) on you during your Uganda trip. Small bills like 1,000 UGX are the equivalent of just 25 dollar cents, but they are worth big smiles if you give them to locals as a tip. Try to buy local to support local people in Uganda.
Most hotels, lodges and even at the Uganda National Parks you can pay with either credit cards as well as USD, Euros and GBP these days. So when paying for example the National Park fee for mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi there is no need to bring stacks of Ugandan shillings or dollars.
ATMs, Bank withdrawals?
ATMs are widely available in places in the bigger cities like Kampala, Entebbe, Fort Portal, and Jinja. In more remote areas, there are also ATMs, but not all of them accept foreign bank cards. Therefore, it is a good idea to plan ahead and always carry some cash with you.
I usually recommend withdrawing money from bank ATMs rather than smaller standalone ATMs, as it is often cheaper and more reliable. The banks I normally use are Absa, Stanbic, and Equity Bank. These banks usually have a daily withdrawal limit of around 1-3 million Ugandan shillings per withdrawal per day.
A good tip is to make sure your credit card or Mastercard is opened for use in Africa before you travel under geographical settings. Mine was automatically blocked for use outside certain regions, but I was able to open it for Africa through my banking app or by calling my bank before departure.
And do not panic if an ATM has run out of cash – this can happen. You can usually just try another ATM or go to a different bank nearby.
Stanbic Bank, Absa Bank or Equity Bank usually charge around 12.000 UGX, approximately 3 USD as a fee of withdrawal. However, fees can change, so it is always worth checking the amount shown on the ATM screen before confirming the withdrawal.
Exchange from Euros and US Dollars to Ugandan Shillings?
You can exchange Euros or US dollar into Ugandan Shilling at a Forex office in one of the cities.
You can also change money at the Entebbe Airport, but the rates are significantly lower.
There are exchange offices all around the bigger towns, cities and the Uganda tourist attractions.
Always look up the US Dollar/UGX exchange rate before exchange money. Some Ugandans are very 'creative' with converting their currency in US Dollars or Euros.
Do you tip in Uganda?
Tipping is not mandatory in Uganda, but it is always appreciated. But in general people don't expect it.
In restaurants, or when travelling with guides and drivers, a small tip is a nice gesture when you have received good service. Many guides appreciate a tip after activities such as a boat tour, game drive, nature walk, or cultural visit.
Since local people may have limited access to exchange foreign currency, it is usually best to tip in Ugandan shillings.
The average monthly income in Uganda varies depending on the area and type of work, but many people earn much less than travellers from Western countries may be used to. Because of this, even a small tip can make a meaningful difference.
Ugandan people are generally very friendly and welcoming, especially those working in tourism. Leaving a small tip for good service is a simple way to show appreciation, and you will often be met with many warm smiles throughout your trip.
Internet & SIM Cards in Uganda
Staying connected while travelling in Uganda makes things a lot easier, especially for navigation, communication, booking transport, and staying in touch with your guide or accommodation.
I highly recommend having internet access when travelling in Uganda. Buying a local SIM card for SMS, calls, and mobile data when you arrive is usually cheap and reliable. Most of the country has mobile coverage, except for some very remote areas.
Ask Johnson for advice on how to get a SIM card, whether to choose MTN or Airtel, and what the current prices are. He can help you find the easiest and best option when you arrive.
Another option is to get an eSIM for Uganda before your trip. Airalo, for example, offers several Uganda eSIM plans for tourists, which can be convenient if your phone supports eSIM. You can also check whether your mobile plan from home includes international roaming. My own plan includes Uganda as part of its worldwide roaming package, which means I can call locally and use mobile data without buying a separate SIM card.
Before travelling, check the prices and conditions carefully, as roaming can become expensive if Uganda is not included in your plan.
Electricity plugs in Uganda
Uganda uses UK-style Type G plugs.
Make sure to bring a universal travel adapter so you can charge your devices.
Some remote areas do not even have proper electricity facilities and most of the lodges in Uganda use solar energy or generators, which means there is only power at certain times of the day and electricity plugs are limited. Therefore, it isn't always possible to charge your devices in your room.
In some places you will be able to charge your phone, but laptops or camera batteries have to be charged in the reception or main area.
This is common practice in safari lodges in Uganda.
A helpful travel tip is to bring powerful power banks to charge your devices when needed and bring extra batteries for cameras, etc.
Safety
Is it safe?
One of the first questions many travellers ask is: “Is Uganda safe?”The short answer is that many people travel safely and have wonderful experiences in Uganda every year.
However, Uganda is still a country where you should travel with awareness, good planning, and respect for local conditions.
Safety can depend a lot on where you go, how you travel, and whether you follow local advice.
You may notice that Uganda is marked as a yellow or orange zone in some travel advisories. This does not necessarily mean that the whole country is unsafe for tourists. It usually means that there are certain risks travellers should be aware of, such as crime, traffic accidents, political demonstrations, regional instability near some borders, health risks, or specific areas where extra caution is advised.
Travel advisories can change, so always check the latest advice from your own government before departure. For Danish travellers, this means checking Udenrigsministeriets rejsevejledning for Uganda and signing up for Danskerlisten.
Going out after dark?
In general, I would be more careful after dark, especially in bigger cities or places you do not know well.
Avoid walking alone at night, and use trusted transport instead.
If you are staying at a hotel or lodge, ask the staff what is safe in that specific area. This does not mean you cannot go out for dinner or enjoy the evening, but plan how you get there and back.
It is always better to move around with someone you trust, or with a reliable driver.
Driving in Uganda: Road quality, night Driving, and routes to avoid
I do not recommend driving long distances after dark in Uganda. Roads can be poorly lit, and you may meet potholes, speed bumps, animals, pedestrians, cyclists, boda bodas, trucks, or cars without proper lights.
Outside the main roads, driving can quickly become more difficult. Even during the day, road conditions can change a lot. As soon as you turn off the main roads, travelling in Uganda often becomes slower and more challenging. Some roads are dusty, muddy, narrow, or full of holes, especially during or after rain.
A good local driver/guide will usually know which routes are safe, which roads to avoid, and whether plans should be adjusted.
Boda bodas
Boda bodas, or motorcycle taxis, are very common in Uganda. They are cheap, fast, and used by many local people every day. However, they can also be a bit risky, especially in busy traffic or after dark.
If you choose to take a boda boda, ask Johnson for a good boda driver, agree on the price before you go, and avoid using them at night or on busy main roads if you do not feel comfortable.
As a first-time traveller, I would generally recommend using a trusted driver or car for long distances and not boda bodas.
Why going with a driver as a minimum is a good idea?
My recommendation is to rent a car with a driver/guide if you are planning a road trip in Uganda. It is more expensive than driving yourself, but it can save you a lot of stress.
A local driver knows the roads, the traffic culture, the police stops, the best places to stop, and how long distances really take. This is very helpful, because travel times in Uganda can be much longer than Google Maps suggests.
Having a driver also means you can relax more, enjoy the views, ask questions, and feel safer when travelling between places. For first-time travellers to Uganda, I think going with a trusted driver is one of the best decisions you can make.
How to greet, how to behave and appropriate clothes according to the culture?
Uganda is a friendly and welcoming country, and a little politeness goes a long way.
When meeting people, it is normal to greet them properly before asking a question or starting a conversation. A simple “Hello, how are you?” is always appreciated. In many situations, especially in villages or more traditional areas, greetings are an important part of showing respect.
My best advice is to be humble, open, and respectful. Uganda is a religious country, and faith is important to many people, so it is good to be mindful when talking about religion, traditions, family, and local ways of life. You do not have to agree with everything, but listening with respect is always the best approach.
When it comes to clothing, do not be too afraid of “getting it wrong.” In cities and tourist areas, you will see many different styles, and many Ugandan women wear modern clothes, including short dresses and skirts. Wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident.
That said, Uganda can still be quite traditional, especially in villages, religious places, and rural communities. In these places, I would recommend dressing a little more modestly — for example, covering your shoulders or wearing longer skirts, dresses, or trousers. It is not about being afraid of the culture, but about showing respect for the setting you are in.
You may also notice that local people often dress much smarter than tourists. Many Ugandans put effort into looking good, even for everyday life. As a traveller, you do not need to dress in only practical safari clothes all the time. It is completely fine to bring some clothes that make you feel nice too.
Weather, which clothes to wear?
For practical travel, make sure to pack good shoes for hikes, trails, and longer walks.
Also bring a warm jacket and a rain jacket and long trousers, especially if you are going to higher areas such as Fort Portal, the crater lakes, or the mountains. It can get colder than you expect, particularly in the evenings and at higher altitudes.
Uganda has more of a service culture than you may be used to
It is also important to understand that service culture in Uganda can feel different from what many travellers are used to, especially if you come from a Scandinavian country.
For example, when someone carries your luggage at a hotel or lodge, they are not only doing it for a tip. It is often part of their job and also a friendly, welcoming gesture. It can feel natural to say, “No, no, I can carry it myself,” but in many places, the most respectful thing is actually to allow the person whose job it is to help you to do so.
You can always show appreciation with a kind thank you, a smile, and, if you feel it is appropriate, a small tip.
Slow down and be patient
One of the best pieces of advice I can give is to slow down and be patient. Mpora, mpora is the Rutooro equivalent of the Swahili saying pole, pole – meaning “slowly, slowly” or “take it easy.”
Things in Uganda may not always happen as quickly as you are used to, especially if you come from a country where everything is very structured and efficient. Food may take longer to arrive, roads may be slower than expected, plans may change, and small practical things can take more time.
This does not mean that people are not trying or that things are not working, it is simply a different pace. Try not to expect the same speed or efficiency you may be used to at home. Instead, allow extra time, stay flexible, and enjoy the slower rhythm.
Some of the best travel experiences in Uganda happen when you stop rushing and simply take in where you are.
People might ask for a picture and your WhatsApp number...
As a traveller in Uganda, especially if you look different from the local population, you may sometimes be asked for a photo or your WhatsApp number.
Most of the time, this comes from curiosity, friendliness, or wanting to stay in touch. It can feel a little unusual if you are not used to it, but you are always allowed to say no politely.
You do not have to give out your phone number or take photos with people if you do not feel comfortable.
Choosing Local: Why it matters when travelling in Uganda
When travelling in Uganda, choosing local travel agencies, guides, drivers, restaurants, and lodges can make a big difference. It means that more of the money you spend stays in the country and supports local families, jobs, and communities directly.
Of course, there are also good foreign-owned travel companies and lodges, but when you choose local businesses, you often support people who have grown up in the area, understand the culture, and know the country from the inside. They can show you Uganda through local eyes.
Travelling with local guides also gives you a more personal experience. You may learn about everyday life, traditions, family, food, language, religion, and small places you would never have found on your own.
A local guide can often explain not only what you are seeing, but also what it means.
For me, supporting local tourism is also about respect. Uganda is not just a destination; it is people’s home. When we travel there, we have the opportunity to make choices that benefit the people who live and work there.
Choosing local does not mean choosing less comfort or less professionalism. Many local guides, drivers, agencies, and lodges offer excellent service, deep knowledge, and a very high level of care. The difference is that your trip becomes more connected to the people and places you are visiting.
So when possible, I recommend choosing local – not only because it can give you a more authentic experience, but because it helps make tourism more fair, personal, and meaningful.
Sustainability in local lodges and accommodation
When choosing where to stay, it is also worth looking for lodges that work with sustainability in one way or another.
This can mean places that think about waste management, reduce plastic use, save water and energy, build with local materials, and employ people from the surrounding communities.
A good sustainable lodge is not only about looking beautiful in nature. It is also about how the lodge treats the environment, where the money goes, and whether the local community benefits from tourism. This could be through jobs, training, buying food from local farmers, supporting schools or community projects, or working with local guides and suppliers.
As a traveller, you can support this by choosing places that are transparent about what they do and by asking Johnson to help you find these places.