15 Days - UGANDA ~ Rwenzori & Mountain Gorilla Trekking Adventure

The first thing that springs to most people’s minds when thinking of Rwanda is its turbulent political history. But today’s Rwanda is a far cry from the nation it was in the mid-90s: the country has emerged from the shadows and has much to offer visitors, most notably the tracking of endangered mountain gorillas in the lush Virunga National Park, which extends across the peaks and jungle-covered slopes of the volcanic Virunga Mountains. Other major tourist attractions include expansive Lake Kivu, ancient Nyungwe Forest with its rich population of primate species, and the game-rich savannah lands of Akagera National Park.

Quick facts

• Official Name: Republic of Rwanda
• Population:        12,159,586
• Area:                      26,338 km2
• Capital City:       Kigali (population: 745,261)
• Major Religion: Christianity
• Currency:             Rwanda franc (RWF)
• Time Zone:          GMT +2
• Country code:   + 250
• Altitude:               Ranges from 1000-4500m above sea level.

Geography

Known as the 'Land of a Thousand Hills', Rwanda rests just below the equator and its small size has a rich geography with mountains, volcanoes, savannas, and many lakes. Rwanda is a landlocked country in East-Central Africa, surrounded by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, Tanzania, and Burundi. 

Language

The national language is Kinyarwanda. French, English and Swahili are the other official languages. French is widely spoken throughout the country. In the capital and other tourist areas, many people speak English.

The People

Rwanda is one of the world’s most densely populated countries. Rwandans are drawn from just one cultural and linguistic group, the Banyarwanda, although within this group there are three subgroups: the Hutu (84%), Tutsi (15%) and Twa (1%). The Twa are a forest-dwelling pygmy people descended from Rwanda's earliest inhabitants.

Economy

Rwanda has a presidential system of government. The president is Paul Kagame of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), who took o­ath in 2000. Rwanda's economy suffered heavily during the 1994 Rwandan Genocide, but has since strengthened. The economy is based mostly on subsistence agriculture. Coffee and tea are the major cash crops for export. Tourism is a fast-growing sector and is now the country's leading foreign exchange earner.

Single entry visa

As of 1 June 2018, tourists from all countries can apply for a tourist visa on arrival at Kigali Airport or another port of entry into Rwanda. If you prefer to apply for your visa beforehand, you can do this online, by visiting the official Rwandan Immigration site: https://www.migration.gov.rw 

You will need a ‘Letter of invitation’ to apply for the visa. This can be organised through an Inspired Journeys representative (ground handler) in Rwanda. It usually takes about 3-5 working days for a Rwandan visa to be approved online. Once it is approved, print a copy and take it with you to present on arrival in Rwanda.

The cost of a visa is US$30 per entry. Visas are single entry and valid for 30 days from day of entry.

Note: If you leave Rwanda and want to return to Rwanda, you will need a new visa and need to pay for it again.

East African Visa

Please note that clients who are traveling to Rwanda, Uganda and/or Tanzania can apply for the East African Visa $100 to cover their entry to all three of these countries. If you are first entering Rwanda, you can use this link to apply for the visa along with a ‘Letter of Invitation’ that we will supply you: https://www.migration.gov.rw

Note: East African Tourist Multi-entry visas become invalid after you travel to D.R.C., so you will be required to purchase a new visa if you plan to re-enter Rwanda/Uganda/Kenya after your trip to D.R.C.

Passport

Passports are required by all foreign visitors and must be valid for 6 months after you return home. Please make sure that you have at least two blank pages available for each country you intend to visit.

As a general precaution, we recommend you make several copies of your important travel documentation (passport, credit cards,, itinerary,  airline tickets,  insurance cover, visas etc.), leave a copy at home and bring a copy with you. Keep your originals somewhere safe (i.e. on you) and your copies somewhere else (i.e. in your main luggage). In the unfortunate circumstance that you lose your passport, a copy helps greatly to receive an emergency travel document.

Currency

The currency in Rwanda is the Rwandan Franc (RWF).

Rwanda Franc (RWF) = 100 centimes. Notes are in denominations of RWF 5,000, 2,000, 1,000 and 500. Coins are in denominations of RWF100, 50, 20, 10 and 5.

The import and export of local currency is limited to RWF5000. The import and export of foreign currency is unlimited, but must be declared upon arrival and exchanged within 8 days.

US dollars are widely accepted in Rwanda. Many lodge and restaurant prices will be set in US dollars while outside of lodges (souvenirs, snacks, etc.) Francs will be necessary. 

Banking

Banking hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1200 and 1400-1700, Sat 0800-1200.

There are many ATMs available throughout Kigali which accept Visa and MasterCard, although they become scarcer as you enter the rural areas. Please check with your bank for charges and advice when using international ATMs.

The maximum amount of Rwandan Francs you can withdraw per transaction at an ATM is 200,000 RWF (about $240 USD) and most machines will allow two withdrawals of 200,000 RWF. You can withdraw USD from KCB ATMs scattered around town ($500 USD maximum per withdrawal).

Credit cards are acceptable at most supermarkets, restaurants and accommodation in Kigali. MasterCard and Visa are the preferred cards. In the rural areas it is only money in Rwanda Francs that they can accept.

It may be difficult to change traveller's cheques outside Kigali.

You can exchange money in the several exchange bureaus (FOREX bureaus) in Kigali, they can offer a slightly better exchange rate than most banks. US dollars printed before 2006 are not accepted in the country. When you exchange money, use big notes (50 or 100 US dollar). The exchange rate of smaller notes is much lower. Make sure notes are not cut, or damaged in any way, as they will not be accepted.

RwandAir flies internally to the southeastern town of Cyangugu. Akagera Aviation provides helicopter flights all over the country.

There is a lot of work being done to improve the roads, and in some places you will find smooth tarmac, while in others you will be going along pot-holed dirt paths.A 4-wheel drive vehicle is needed for some local roads. There can be landslides on some of the major roads during annual rainfall in spring and autumn.Extra care should be taken at night, as headlight use is erratic. During rainy season some roads can become impassable.

There are no international car hire companies operating in Rwanda, but there are several local companies. You will find these listed in the Eye magazine given away at the airport and in hotels (www.theeye.co.rw)

Taxis can be found in large towns and cities. Look for the official orange stripe. Fares are reasonable, but should be agreed in advance (ask a local if you think you are being overcharged). Tipping is not expected.

Bicycle and scooter taxis are the quickest and cheapest way to get around in the towns, however they are risky.

Minibus taxis provide links to and from all towns and some villages. Although it is not common for foreigners to travel this way, they are quite safe and efficient. However you will have to wait until they are full before departure if you get on at the start of the route. The Virunga Express (www.virungatravel.com) and Onatracom Express provide more direct intercity links.

Rwandans drive on the right. It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving unless with a hands-free set. Seat belts must be worn in the front. It is advised not to drive after drinking, breathalisers are in use and if found to have more than 0.8 mg of alcohol per 1 litre of blood, you are likely to face imprisonment. Speed limits are 40km/per hour in the city and 60km outside the city. If the car in front is using the left indicator it often means it is not safe to overtake, the right indicator tells you the road ahead is clear.

An International Driving Permit is required. An entry permit is needed if you have travelled from outside the country, insurance document and driving licence.

You can hire a boat to take you from Gisenyi to Kibuye if you ask at one of the lakeside hotels.

Vaccinations

In preparing for your trip to East Africa it is advisable that you meet with either your physician or a travel health clinic between 6 to 8 weeks before you travel so that you can get the proper vaccinations and begin your anti-malaria tablets.

Yellow Fever

It is imperative for all travellers to Rwanda to obtain a yellow fever vaccination (over the age of 9 months) no less than 10 days prior to travelling. Yellow fever is a current risk in Rwanda due to the outbreaks taking place in the region. A certificate of yellow fever vaccination is required. Your country of origin and other African countries like South Africa will also deny re-entry without the vaccination, after you have been to a country with Yellow Fever.

The following vaccinations are recommended but not required when visiting Rwanda;

•  Polio
•  Hepatitis A
•  Hepatitis B – If you are planning to spend more that 6 months in Rwanda or Uganda
•  Typhoid (through contaminated food or water)
•  Rabies - If you are planning to come into direct contact with animals
•  Diphteria
• Tetanus

Malaria

Malaria is present in Rwanda. Even though less prevalent than other African countries, due to the high elevation.  We recommend you to consult your physician or a travel clinic before you travel for advice on precautions against malaria. Other insect-borne diseases also occur. The best way to avoid malaria is still to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are most active at dusk & dawn so cover up at that time and put lots of mosquito repellent (that contain DEET) on. Don’t forget your ankles. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats when outdoors. Ensure your accommodation is mosquito proof, use air-conditioning and/or sleep under mosquito nets.

First aid

Most hotels and lodges are equipped with a first aid kit but we would still recommend that you bring a small airtight container with a few well-chosen articles. The most common problems that travellers experience in Rwanda, are upset stomachs, heat stroke, strained muscles, twisted ankles, minor cuts & grazes, & itchy bites. The following is a list of medicine that may assist with these;

• Plasters
• Travel sickness tablets
• Antiseptic cream
• Anti-histamine cream and pills
• Pain relieving tablets (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
• Cold medication
• Indigestion tablets
• Eye drops for dry/irritated eyes
• Medication for upset stomachs (i.e. anti-diarrhoea such as Imodium)
• Rehydration salt sachets
• Bandage for a sprained ankle
• Deep heat for sore muscles or sprained ankle
• Blister plasters (Compeed)
• After-sun moisturiser
• If you have any allergies i.e. insect stings, or an asthma condition

Please make sure you bring enough of your required medication with you. If you are on chronic or special medication, put some in your hand luggage and some in your main luggage.

Medical insurance

We strongly recommend to have comprehensive medical travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical cost and is valid in the D.R.C., including medical evacuation and repatriation. Check that your insurance covers you for the whole time you will be away and what circumstances and activities are not included in your policy.

Although Rwanda has lived through a turbulent history, the country is relatively safe and stable. You can safely walk in Kigali on your own. We do recommend that you exercise usual safety precautions, as you would at home. Do not walk by yourself at night. Don’t carry around a large amount of cash in a crowded area and keep your money out of sight. Be cautious with your belongings, especially when in public transportation, markets or in more downtown areas. Avoid crowded places, keep your money and valuables in safe place, and if you decide to go out at night to experience the nightlife of Kigali be cautious. Avoid wearing expensive watches and jewelry.

Food is generally safe to eat if well-cooked and hot. If in doubt, veer towards larger restaurants in cities and those aimed at tourists, which will have undergone government safety checks. Avoid buying food from the side of the road and don’t drink tap water. Use bottled water and filtered water or otherwise boil or sterilise. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised. Avoid dairy products that are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

The majority of the population in Rwanda live off subsistence farming and so their meals rely heavily on starchy crops such as potato, maize and cassava. This is generally served with kidney beans and cabbage and where meat can be afforded it is most often goat. However, the restaurants of Kigali and other towns will generally serve grilled meat with french fries and sometimes rice with spicy stews.

Hotels generally serve a reasonable choice of European dishes, and there are Chinese, Greek, Indian, Italian and Middle Eastern restaurants. Some restaurants also serve Franco-Belgian cuisine and African dishes. A fairly good selection of beers, spirits and wines is available. Beer is also brewed locally.

You will see brochettes on most menus, these are basically a skewer of your chosen meat or fish served with rice or chips. Other local specialities include: tilapia, a white fish found in Lake Kivu and also farmed locally and appears often on menus; Matoke, cooked plantain, which may be served when you are expecting potatoes (and usually tastes a lot like potatoes!). Ugali (or bugali) is a paste made from maize and water, to form a porridge-like consistency that is eaten throughout East Africa.

The spiciest of chili oils is found at every bar and restaurant in Rwanda. Known as Akabanga, it is served in a small eyedropper and adds a great bit of heat to any curry, soup, or vegetable dish. Don’t put more than a few drops on your food, however, as this stuff is the real deal.

Primus is the local beer of choice. Mutzig is very similar but more expensive and often comes in large 700ml bottles. The local banana wine is for the brave, it is called urwangwa and you should be able to pick up a bottle in a supermarket to try in the privacy of your room.

Despite its proximity to the equator, due to the high altitude of most of the country, Rwanda has a temperate climate with temperatures seldom climbing above 25°C. Temperatures vary considerably between locations depending on their altitude.  In the capital, Kigali (1,567m), the average daily temperature is around 21°C. Expect cooler temperatures, particularly in the mornings and evenings, in the areas with higher altitudes, such as Volcanoes National Park (2,500m – 4,500m) and Nyungwe Forest National Park (highest point 3,000m). As well as light rain showers even in the dry season.

The long dry season is from June to September and there are two annual rainy seasons, the first from mid-March until the beginning of June and small rains from mid-September to December. The best time for gorilla and monkey tracking is the dry season - if only to spare you getting drenched (you can still see them in the rain, they just get a bit grumpy). The dry season is also good if you want to see game in Akagera National Park because thirst will draw the animals to the watering holes. You will also find at this time the roads are less dangerous and the risk of malaria is lower. The rainy season is the best time to see chimpanzees and is also the time when the place is at its most lush and green.

Lightweight cotton or linen clothing is recommended for most of the year with warmer clothes for cooler upland mornings and evenings. Long trousers & long sleeved shirts for protection from forest vegetation and the sun.  If possible natural colors: brown, khaki, green, beige. Pack with layering in mind, as the climate changes throughout the day.  Rainwear is advisable especially during the rainy season and sunglasses, sunscreen and a sunhat are recommended year round. A good pair of walking shoes is essential. Please ensure that you have worn in your hiking boots before you travel so that they will be comfortable and avoid blisters.

If you have gaiters, please bring these as they are useful for protecting your legs against nettles and preventing things getting in your shoes. At Volcanoes National Park gaiters can be hired for US$5 if you don’t bring your own.

Laundry

Laundry is offered in most of the places you will be staying, although it may come with a small extra charge. Please note that most laundry is done by hand, so please ensure that the clothes you bring are hand-washable. Please note that ladies’ underwear cannot be included in the laundry, but laundry  etergent is usually provided in the rooms.

Luggage

We recommend you to bring a bag or suitcase made from soft material. Hard cover suitcases are difficult to place in the car and are likely to break on the bumpy roads. It is advised to carry all your valuables and important medication in your hand luggage, as baggage can sometimes go missing.

Please always check with your airline about the maximum luggage weight allowance. Domestic flights are usually light aircraft that impose strict luggage allowance of 15kgs per person including hand luggage. Keen photographers with extra photographic equipment need to advise us in advance as we may need to reserve an extra seat on the plane (at extra charge) to allow for extra luggage.

Wireless internet is now available throughout the country, either by using a dongle, which can be purchased in Kigali and other major towns, or by using WiFi hotspots. MTN hotspots are widespread and you can access them using your mobile phone credit if you have bought an MTN SIM card. There are also many internet cafes in Kigali and other large towns.

Electrical sockets (outlets) in Rwanda are one of the two European standard electrical socket types: The "Type C" Europlug and the "Type E" and "Type F" Schuko. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change the shape of your appliance's plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into. If it's crucial to be able to plug in no matter what, bring an adapter for both types.

Electrical sockets (outlets) in the Republic of Rwanda (République du Rwanda) usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need.

But travel plug adapters do not change the voltage, so the electricity coming through the adapter will still be the same 220-240 volts the socket is supplying. North American sockets supply electricity at between 110 and 120 volts, far lower than in most of the rest of the world. Consequently, North American appliances are generally built for 110-120 volts.

Packing list

Clothing:

• Layers - long and short sleeve shirts and trousers
• A warm fleece or jumper
• A lightweight waterproof and windproof jacket
• Comfortable but sturdy shoes
• Flip flops or sandals
• Swimming costume (Bathing suit)

Miscellaneous:

• Small day pack (To carry essentials; such as camera, rain rear & sunblock)
• Personal toiletries
• Sun cream of SPF 30 or more     
• Lip balm
• Insect repellent     
• A hat or baseball cap                         
• Sunglasses (with neck strap)
• (Head) torch
• Binoculars (8x40/8x42 is recommended)
• Camera (with 200/300mm lens)
• Dust protection for your camera equipment.
• Zip-lock bags
• Extra batteries & charger for your camera  
• Extra memory cards
• Adaptor 
• If you wear contact lenses, bring your prescription glasses as well for comfort, as eye irritations can happen while travelling under different climates to what you are used to.
• Small notebook
• Good book or kindle

Extra comforts:

• Small pillow for use on transport & if the hotel pillows are uncomfortable
• Ear plugs
• Good quality water bottle

Tipping

Tipping in Rwanda is not obligatory and it fully depends on your satisfaction with service provided. But even a small amount to show your gratitude will be highly appreciated. US$ or local currency are best.

Nowadays, tipping is customary for service in restaurants and bars in Rwanda, due to the large international tourist presence. In restaurants we recommend a tip of about 10% of the bill if you are a happy with the service.

We recommend that you tip your guide/ranger, tracker, porter direct at the end, as a rough guideline you might want to tip from US$ 5-10 per guest per day. If you are happy with the service in the lodges/camps, it is a nice gesture to give general camp staff a tip; we recommend a tip of around US$ 5-10 per guest per day. This can be placed in the communal tipping box. This is very much a rough guide and you are completely free to give whatever you feel is appropriate.

• Driver in Rwanda: $ 10 per day per person
• Carrying of luggage: US$1 - US$2 per movement of luggage
  • If there is a shared tip box at the lodge this is not necessary. Smaller lodges regularly have them but larger hotels are less likely to.
• Transfer drivers (e.g. in cities or between airport and hotel/lodge): $2 per person per transfer

Activities:

• Primate trekking: 
  • 1 guide:  US$20 - US$25 per group
  • 6 - 8 trackers: US$5 per tracker per group
• Akagera game drives:  guide $10  per person per day
• Azizi life experience:
  • Half day tour: US$5 - US$10 per person/ US$20 per group
  • Full day tour: US$5 - US$10 per person / US$40 per group
• Kingfisher journeys (sup, canoeing & kayaking): US$5 - US$10 per person/ US$20 per group
• Kigali city tour:
  • Half day tour: US$5 - US$10 per person / US$20 per group
  • Full day: US$10 per person / US$40 per group
• Africa rising cycling tours: US$5 - US$10 per person / US$20 per group
• Hikes:
  • Guide: US$20 - US$25 per group
  • Porters (max. 15kg): US$5 - US$10 per group per trip

Common Kinyarwanda words

• ‘Amafaranga’ meaning Money
• ‘Amakuru yawe’ meaning how are you?
• ‘Ni Meza’ meaning Fine
• ‘Mwaramutse’ meaning Good morning
• ‘Murakoze’ meaning Thank you,
• ‘Mwirirwe’ meaning Good afternoon/evening,
• ‘Muramuke’ meaning Good night ,
• ‘Oya meaning No and ‘Yego’ meaning Yes

Recommended reading/watching

Movies/documentaries:

• Rising from the Ashes
• Hotel Rwanda
• Sometimes in April
• Beyond the gates
• 100 days

Books:

• A Thousand Hills to Heaven: Love, Hope and a Restaurant in Rwanda – Josh Ruxin
• Land of a Thousand Hills: My Life in Rwanda - Rosamond Halsey Carr with Ann Howard Halsey
• Shake Hands With The Devil: The Failure of Humanity in Rwanda - Romeo Dallaire
• We Wish to Inform You That Tomorrow We Will Be Killed With Our Families - Philip Gourevitch
• Ordinary Man: The True Story Behind Hotel Rwanda - Paul Rusesabagina
• Land of Second Chances: The Impossible Rise of Rwanda's Cycling Team – Tim Lewis
• Machete Season: The Killers in Rwanda Speak - Jean Hatzfeld

Uganda, or the ‘Pearl of Africa’, as it was famously dubbed by Winston Churchill, is characterised by relatively dry and flat savanna in the north, with verdant mountains in the West, and vast dense and remarkably lush forests in the central region. The nation is home to an astonishingly diverse range of African wildlife including the highly endangered mountain gorilla which can be found in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. A popular spot for wildlife watching is Queen Elizabeth National Park, which hosts four of the Big Five, a flock of flamboyant flamingos and the rare tree-climbing lions of Ishasha. Outdoor enthusiasts can get their adrenaline fix with plenty of whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, quad biking and horse riding facilities on offer. Add to this some friendly locals, a burgeoning cultural scene, and a capital city full of lively bars, clubs and restaurants, and it is easy to see why Uganda has gained itself a reputation as 'Africa's friendliest country'.

Currency

The local currency is the Uganda Shilling (UGX). Notes are in denominations of UGX50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000 and 1,000. Coins are in denominations of UGX500, 200, 100, 50, 10, 5, 2 and 1. However, UGX1,000 notes are soon to be replaced by coins. Try not to accept very old or damaged notes where possible, as some places may refuse to take them.

The US dollar, euro and pound sterling are all recognised currencies in Uganda, and both euros and dollars are now widely accepted for cash payments. Other international currencies may also be accepted in some places in the major cities, although visitors may struggle with other currencies in

The import and export of local currency is prohibited. Import of foreign currency is unlimited if declared upon arrival. Export of foreign currency must not exceed the amount declared upon arrival.

Foreign currency may be exchanged at the Central Bank, commercial banks and foreign exchange bureaux. Be aware that dollar notes from before 2006 will not be accepted for exchange.smaller towns.

Banking

Banking hours: Generally Mon-Fri 08h30-14h00, Sat 09h00-12h00. Forex bureaux are open until 17h00 and able to do electronic transfers to and from overseas.

American Express, Diners, MasterCard and Visa credit cards are sometimes accepted but not widely used. Some large hotels, restaurants, travel agencies and shops in urban areas accept credit cards.

ATMs are available in the larger cities but ATM services in smaller towns and rural areas are limited. It is advisable to check with your bank to see if your card is compatible with Ugandan ATMs.

Traveller's cheques are not widely accepted outside Kampala. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars or Pounds Sterling. It is advised that travellers bring sufficient US dollars in cash in case of emergencies. Higher denomination bills usually give a better exchange rate than smaller notes.

Fly Uganda (www.flyuganda.com), Eagle Air (www.flyeagleairuganda.com) and Aerolink (www.aerolinkuganda.com) offer scheduled and charter internal flights.

Domestic bus travel is cheap, but departures aren’t always on schedule. There are two classes of bus travel – matatu (minibus) or kigati (van) which travel fixed routes, and larger coaches or buses.

Self-drive and hiring a private car with a driver are other options. International hire companies are based near Entebbe International Airport and in the centre of Kampala. A four-wheel drive is recommended for rural areas. The speed limit is 80kph (50mph) or 100kph (62mph) on highways. Most car hire companies include breakdown cover. The Automobile Association of Uganda (www.aau.co.ug) can provide information and assistance.mAn International Driving Permit and adequate third-party insurance is required. UK driving licences are accepted. Drivers must carry their vehicle log books and must pay for a temporary road licence.

Whist some major roads are paved, the majority of minor and side roads are unpaved and can be bumpy and pot-holed, so drive with caution, especially in the rainy season.The roads are of variable quality and radiate from Kampala, although the network is sparse in the north. Whist some major roads are paved, the majority of minor and side roads are unpaved and can be bumpy and pot-holed, so drive with caution, especially in the rainy season.  Note that there are still some army and police checkpoints on roads. Always keep vehicle doors locked and valuables out of sight.

Private taxis are identifiable by their black and white stripes. Boda-bodas (motorbike taxis) are often a cheaper option and, whilst fun, are not for the faint-hearted. Don’t be afraid to ask your driver to slow down if necessary as accidents are common.

Cycling in Uganda requires nerves of steel; many roads are dusty or under construction and motor vehicles rarely allow cyclists room. Always wear a helmet and use rear-view mirrors. Avoid cycling at night.

Uganda’s coach and bus services connect all major towns. The Post Office’s Post Bus Service (www.ugapost.co.ug) offers relatively comfortable buses and is more safety-aware than some other bus companies.

Most major routes are also covered by smaller white mini-buses. These are faster than coaches, but drivers wait until they are full before leaving and departure times are not fixed.

A passenger ferry links Nakiwogo Dock, south of Entebbe to Lutoboka on Buggala in the Ssese Islands on Lake Victoria. There is also a free vehicle ferry which runs from Bukakata, 40km (25 miles) east of Masaka, to Buggala. Lake taxis also link some of the other islands.

Passenger boats can be overloaded in Uganda and there have been several accidents, usually during the rainy season which can bring storms and high winds. Always makes sure boats have life jackets before you set off.

All water should be regarded as being a potential health risk. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should be boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised. Avoid dairy products which are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit should be peeled.

Ugandan cuisine draws on English, Arab and Asian – especially Indian – influences and uses home-grown local produce including plantains, sweet potatoes, corn, beans and cassava. It’s easy to eat cheaply almost anywhere in the country. International restaurants can be found in larger towns, with Indian, Chinese and Italian being the most popular.

Traditional foods include ugali (solidified maize meal porridge) served with a stew of groundnuts (peanuts), beans, chicken or meat such as beef, goat or mutton. Game can be found on menus in some restaurants and at safari lodges. Fish including the tiger fish, mukini, mputa and tilapia are popular.

Vegetarians may struggle outside of major towns, but Uganda’s Indian and Chinese restaurants generally offer a selection of vegetarian dishes. Traditional desserts include mandazi, a doughnut often served with cinnamon or sugar.

Although always appreciated, tipping is not standard practice. It is normal to tip 5 to 10% at tourist-orientated restaurants.

Uganda has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 21-25°C (70- 77°F), apart from in the mountainous areas, which are much cooler; the top of Mount Elgon is often covered with snow. The hottest months are December to February. Evenings can feel chilly after the heat of the day with temperatures around 12- 16ºC (54-61°F).

Most regions of Uganda, apart from the dry area in the north, have an annual rainfall of between 1,000mm and 2,000mm. There is heavy rain between March and May and between October and November, when road travel can become difficult in parts of the country. The best time for trekking is during the dry seasons, between January and February and June to September. Wildlife viewing is best at the end of the dry seasons, when game is more concentrated around water sources.

Lightweight clothes with a warm cover-up for the evenings are advised. Take a pair of good walking shoes or boots for forest trekking, and long-sleeved tops to protect against mosquitoes. If you’re planning to go to mountainous areas, be sure to take warm clothing, as temperatures drop substantially. White clothes won’t stay white for long with Uganda’s red dust roads, so go for darker colours. Travellers can also pick up bargains at second-hand clothes markets in Kampala, Jinja and Fort Portal, which sell trousers, boots and fleeces.

Electrical sockets (outlets) in Uganda are the "Type G " British BS-1363 type. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change the shape of your appliance's plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into.

Electrical sockets (outlets) in Uganda usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need.

But travel plug adapters do not change the voltage, so the electricity coming through the adapter will still be the same 220-240 volts the socket is supplying. North American sockets supply electricity at between 110 and 120 volts, far lower than in most of the rest of the world. Consequently, North American appliances are generally built for 110-120 volts.