Travel tips on Uganda safaris

Language English is widely spoken which is the official language, of the over 30 and more indigenous languages luganda and Swahili serve more as lingua franca. Money Major foreign currencies are convertible at banks and bureaux de change in the main towns and tourist areas. Credit cards particularly visa cards are accepted at most up market lodges but not at low key enterprises, in large towns several banks offer ATM facilities against international credit cards. The Uganda wildlife authority is currently upgrading its payment system soon visitors will be able to pay for services using cards. Health Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required, malaria is endemic but preventable: use insect repellent, cover up at sundown, sleep under a mosquito net and take anti-malaria prophylactics as advised by your doctor. Bring prescription medicines, spare glasses, contact lenses and solution as well as sunscreen, a first aid kit, cream for bites/stings and diarrhea remedy. Drink only boiled or bottled water. HIV/AIDS prevalent rate is still high in major urban areas. Climate Generally wet and dry, the rains generally peak in mid September to November and March to May, however this may also vary in region. Mountain hikes, gorilla tracking and other forest activities are more challenging during the rainy season. Clothes Pack lightweight, washable clothes plus a sweater for early morning game drives, as well as a sun hat, sunglasses and sun screen. Long sleeves and trousers in light colored fabrics help discourage insect bites. Shorts for women are acceptable (but not too short), if your trip includes hikes and nature walks solid walking shoes, sturdy clothing and waterproof jackets should not miss in our luggage. On safari Uganda by map seems small and therefore distances between attractions seem short however this is not an entirely correct observation, travel by road can be wearing. Plan to spend more time in fewer places. You will see more and won’t return home exhausted. Keep your distance from the animals and be quite to avoid distressing the wildlife, follow instructions of rangers or guides. Don’t leave your vehicle in the park except in designated places; keep to recognized tracks to avoid damaging the vegetation and please don’t litter. Photography If you still use film, bring all you need with you, for digital photography most lodges and tented camps have battery charging facilities. It is also courteous to ask permission before photographing people and some government facilities WI-FI/internet access With changing trends for travelers to stay in touch with friends and family, most lodging facilities have installed internet and wire-less connections, this service is mostly found in hotels in towns and mid- market to high end lodges and camps in nature reserves. Insurance Take out travel insurance to cover loss of baggage or valuables, personnel accident and medical expenses. Tipping Tipping is not obligatory, but a tip for exceptional service (max 10%) will be appreciated, guides and drivers should always be tipped. Local time Local time is 3hrs+GMT Electricity Uganda runs on 240v system, power failures, surges and troughs are common; carry along universal adapter and a torch (flash light) or headlight. Car hire Self-drive vehicles are available mainly for local or tarmac use, 4x4 vehicles for safaris usually have to be hired with a driver. Driving Driving is on the left side of the road, however visitors without African roads experience are highly advised to organise a vehicle with a driver rather than self drive, a driving licence is key, plan your safari carefully ensuring your car is road worthy with two spare tyres, an operational jack and tool kit, carry extra fuel, spares and water. Travel with children Ugandan love children and are especially helpful to mothers, however canned baby foods, powered milk and disposable nappies may not be available outside major towns. Visas Check current requirements with the nearest Ugandan high commission, embassy, consulate or booking agent. Visas, if required can be bought on arrival at international airports and overland boarders. Security Uganda is a generally safe country, but don’t invite temptation, always keep an eye on your belongings. If possible avoid lonely night outings take a taxi from cab companies or hotel shuttles, or let your hotel or place of stay organise you one, commuter public transport is quite safe too. Use hotel safe deposits to secure your valuables and obtain a receipt, if possible leave your jewelry at home. Gift Don’t indiscriminately hand out pens, money, and sweets, this encourages begging, better handed out through school, charitable organisations, better still make your intention known to your booking agent or guide, to help, gifts should be given as a true expression of friendship, appreciation or thanks. Shopping A wide selection of local handicrafts are available as souvenirs, jewelry and trinkets, don’t be afraid to haggle at road side curio stalls