Entry and Health Regulations:

Visitors must be in possession of valid visa and health documents on arrival in Uganda or Rwanda. Different regulations are applied according to nationality and country of origin and these should be checked with the nearest tourist office or diplomatic mission. Diplomatic missions/Uganda/Rwanda Embassies or inoculation centers in the country of origin will provide information and health regulations and recommendations.

Customs and Exit Regulations:

Personal effects, films and cameras may be imported temporarily, free of duty. However, a customs bond may be required in connection with professional video equipment, tape recorders, radios, musical instruments and souvenirs from other countries to ensure goods can be re-exported. Firearms need special permit, which must be obtained in advance. Excess baggage is strictly monitored and charges may be very high, Customs officials normally inspect baggage on arrival and departure.
Immigration:

All visitors must be in possession of a valid passport. Visa requirements vary from time to time and are Dependant on the nationality of the visitor. Since it is essential that no visitor arrives without the correct documentation, you are strongly recommended to check the latest requirements either from the airline offices or through the nearest tourist office, Embassy or High Commission. Most nationals visiting Uganda and Rwanda require a visa, and this can be obtained either pre-departure or at the point of entry at a cost of US$50 per person. Visitors are not allowed to take up work or residence in Uganda and Rwanda without the authority of the Principal Immigration Officer.

Photography:

Films are readily available in Uganda. Before taking pictures of the local people, permission should be sought and if necessary, a price agreed on. The driver guide should be able to assist. Law in the country prohibits taking photographs or video filming of the following areas – Military bases, State Houses, any Armed Forces Base.

Food & Drinks:

As a rule, quotes are based on Full board basis in all accommodation venues - Bed and Breakfast, and half board basis can be arranged on request whilst on safari.
Drinks selections are good, including premium brands and imported wines. Tap water in Uganda is not safe, but water for drinking is generally provided by hotels and clients are advised to drink this or bottled water which is widely available.

Local Laws:

All participants in tours operated by Tropical Africa Tours & Safaris Ltd. are expected to obey laws and regulations of the country(s) visited and any failure to do so will relieve us of all obligations that they may otherwise have under these booking conditions.

Currency:

Country currency regulations prohibit the export of local currency. There is no restriction to the amount of foreign currency a visitor may import. Only authorized dealers are allowed to exchange money and Forex Bureaus are fairly distributed in both Capitals (Kampala and Kigali) and other relatively big commercial centres.

Language:

The official language in Uganda is English and is widely spoken. This will be the major means of communication during your Safari and Tours with Us.

Climate:

Much of Uganda has a perfect climate with warm sunny days and cool evenings. Due to the high altitude of most safari itineraries, the atmosphere is usually pleasantly dry except within the Rainy Forests such as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Kibaale National Park.

As Uganda is on the equator, the sun is very strong and visitors should be advised to take necessary precautions.
There are two rainy seasons, usually from April to end of May and from November to early December. Even during these periods, the weather can be pleasant with rain early in the morning and late in the afternoons and fresh clear sunny periods in between.

Medical Advice:

Uganda and Rwanda enjoy a healthy invigorating climate and visitors need feel no concern for their general health during their stay. However, malaria is endemic in certain areas and anti-malarial medication should be taken according to prescription recommendations. Visitors requiring special medication should pack sufficient supplies in their hand luggage. Chemist shops are well stocked, but the name of the generic medication may not be readily available. Filtered and purified bottled water is also available throughout Uganda.

There are excellent hospitals in Kampala and Kigali where blood is screened for the HIV virus by the most modern equipment. There are also very good dentists and opticians. Clients are advised to take out their own medical and travel insurance before coming to Uganda and/or Rwanda.

Security:

Despite some well-published isolated incidents, Uganda is a very ideal destination for visitors. Visitors should take the same care as they would normally take in any other destination worldwide. Keep a close watch on your handbags, wallets and cameras when walking in crowded places. Avoid walking at night and place valuables in safe deposit boxes at hotels and lodges.

Supplements:

A supplement charge will be applied to all tours operating between 24th December and 3rd January each year

Electricity:

The electricity supply in Uganda is 240 volts and visitors should bring an international adaptor for any electrical appliances they have.

Time:

Uganda is three hours ahead of the Greenwich meantime [GMT]

Flight Bookings:

The itineraries and prices published are for the land portion of the safari only. There is a wide choice of airlines offering services to Uganda and East Africa as a whole and we have found it best to allow our travelers the flexibility to choose the flight that suits their individual preferences. If you would like us to find flights for you, please ensure at the time of booking.

Departure Tax:

Airport departure taxes are included on tickets

Seasons:

High season – 15th December – 31st March & 01st July – 15th December. Low season – 01st April – 30th June.

NOTE:

During Easter period high season rates will apply.