Uganda: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Uganda, often referred to as the ‘Pearl of Africa’, is a land of striking natural beauty, characterised by dry savanna plains in the north, verdant mountains in the west, and dense, lush forests in the central region. The country is home to an extraordinary diversity of wildlife, including the highly endangered mountain gorilla found in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. One of the nation’s premier safari destinations, Queen Elizabeth National Park, is home to four of the Big Five, colourful flamingos, and the rare tree-climbing lions of Ishasha. Adventure seekers can enjoy white-water rafting, kayaking, hiking, quad biking and horse riding, while visitors to the lively capital can experience a growing cultural scene, vibrant nightlife and excellent restaurants. Combined with its warm hospitality, it is easy to see why Uganda is regarded as one of Africa’s friendliest destinations.

Currency

Local currency: Ugandan Shilling
Symbol: USh
ISO code: UGX
Subunit: Cent
Banknotes: 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000, and 50,000 shillings
Coins: 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 200, and 500 shillings

Banking

Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Limited acceptance
Diner’s club: Limited acceptance

Banking Hours:
Weekdays: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Weekends: Limited hours in some locations
Public Holidays: Most are closed
Foreign exchange services: Yes

Air:
Main airlines: Uganda Airlines
International Airports: Entebbe International Airport
Domestic Airports: Various

Road:
Driving on the: Left
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Yes
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes

Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Limited

Rail:
Railway system: Limited
Subway System: No

Water:
Ferries: Limited
Water taxis: Limited
Leisure cruises: Yes

Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Use caution
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes

Local cuisine: Ugandan cuisine reflects a mix of indigenous tribes and foreign influences. Staple foods include Matooke (cooked green bananas), Posho (maize meal), and Rice. Common dishes are Luwombo (steamed stew), Rolex (chapati with eggs and vegetables), and Nyama Choma (grilled meat). Ugandan cuisine is rich in flavor with a variety of spices and herbs.

Drinks: Notable local drinks include Waragi (banana gin), Tonto (local beer), and Malwa (fermented beverage).

Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated, typically 5-10%.

Annual rainfall: Varies by region, averaging around 1200 mm 
Average temperature: 23°C 

Summer: 
Average highs: 27°C 
Average lows: 16°C 

Winter: 
Average highs: 26°C 
Average lows: 15°C 

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Uganda is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February, when the weather is cooler and ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. 

Internet Availability 

Internet cafes: Limited 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Yes 

Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes

Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No (waterproof hiking boots may be needed for trekking)

General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes, only if travelling in the Rwenzori Mountains, Mount Elgon, or other high-altitude regions
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes