Epic Uganda - 2026 Classic Chimps & Gorillas

Tanzania, the largest country in East Africa, includes the spice islands of Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia and contains Africa’s highest point—Kilimanjaro, at 5,895 meters (19,340 feet). Tanganyika, a British-controlled UN trust territory, gained independence in 1961; and Zanzibar, a British protectorate with an Arab population, became independent in 1963. Tanganyika and Zanzibar united to form Tanzania in 1964. Until resigning as president in 1985, independence leader Julius K. Nyerere guided two decades of socialism—adapted to the ujamaa policy of village farming. A multiparty system was established in 1992 after a constitutional amendment. Some 80 percent of Tanzanians farm or fish at subsistence levels; in many areas tse-tse fly infestation hampers successful animal husbandry. Tourism remains important. Dar es Salaam is the administrative capital, but Dodoma is the current home to Tanzania’s legislature.

VISA

It is the responsibility of the client to obtain their own visas.  Please apply for the online visa between 1 – 3 months before departure (not earlier).

Most passport holders require a visa to enter Tanzania.  The cost is USD51.00 for a single tourist visa and USD101.00 for American Passport holders for a multiple entry visa.

Although visas can be obtained on arrival in each port of entry,  we recommend you purchase your Online “E visa” before travel to avoid delays on arrival. Please click on the following link for more information and the online visa - https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/

Please Note:

1. Evidence of Yellow Fever immunization will be requested to gain entry if you are arriving from a Yellow Fever Country (ie.Kenya). Please ensure you have had the inoculation at least 14 days prior to travel and are carrying your Yellow Fever card. 
2. It is a requirement that you have a validity of 6 months on your passport at the time of travel and at least 4 blank pages in order to gain entry.

1. Currency - Tanzania Shilling (abbreviated to TSh or /-), divided into 100 cents.

2. Banks - Banks are open from Monday to Friday 09:00 - 15:30 and some Saturday mornings

3. Bureau de Change - Since currency and financial liberalisation,  Bureau de Change have become the usual means of changing money , travellers are advised to exchange foreign currency at Entry/Exit Airports only.

4. Cash/Traveller’s Cheques - There is no need to bring local currency. Clients should bring US dollars as first preference. Any personal expenses such as purchases from the camps curio shops can be paid for with Visa and MasterCard or cash. US dollars are accepted in markets and for tipping (per the suggested guidelines). It is a good idea to have a quantity of smaller denominations of US$ for distribution of tips.

• Notes dated before 2006 are no longer accepted
• High denomination notes may not accepted
• Change may not be available for high denomination notes

5. Credit Cards - VISA and Mastercard are normally accepted in the better hotels, lodges, restaurants and shops in Tanzania. Note that credit cards are not always accepted, especially away from major centres. However, it should be noted that credit card transactions could take up to a few months to go through, especially from the more remote areas

AIR TRANSFERS

Baggage is limited to 15kg/33 lb per person in soft sided bags including carry-on and camera equipment. PLEASE DO NOT USE HARD SUITCASES OR BAGS WITH WHEELS as bags need to be maneuvered in and out of light aircraft holds.

DRIVING

Tanzania has an extensive network of paved and unpaved roads,  driving in Tanzania is very scenic, however the distances are vast and could take up to six hours a day. Therefore flying is the most popular mode of transport in order to reach your lodge early to start game viewing.  Combining driving and flying can also be arranged in your private vehicle with a driver/guide.

Other Medical requirements:

Please consult your General Practitioner or nearest Traveller’s Medical Centre for advice on medical issues relevant to your destination. For additional information please consult the website for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list

COMMUNICATION

All camps have 24 hour radio contact with their base support headquarters, and each game-drive vehicle has radio contact with camp.

The daily camp tariff includes an amount for emergency evacuation insurance, and in the event of a medical emergency evacuation will be arranged to the nearest town. This is where your own insurance cover will begin.

CELL PHONES

Quad-band cell phones on global roaming generally work from all major urban centres. They do not, however, work from many of the safari camps due to limited reception.

WI-FI / INTERNET

Internet access is limited throughout Africa and varies from camp to camp. Please refer to the camp information for specific details.

TRAVEL ADVICE & WARNINGS

We strongly recommend you review the current travel advice for your country/countries of destination before booking and ensure you remain up to date with this advice before travelling.

Australia: http://smartraveller.gov.au/countries/Pages/default.aspx

UK: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

USA: https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html

REGISTER YOUR TRAVEL

We recommend that you register your travel with your local authority. These services are free and help locate you in case of an emergency. Updates to travel advice are also provided through the subscription service.

Australia - Smart Traveller service - https://orao.dfat.gov.au/pages/

USA - Smart Traveller service - https://step.state.gov/step/

MEALS

Meals are best described as wholesome home style cooking at elegantly set dining tables. Meal times are geared around the best game viewing times and activities, and vary from season to season. In most camps you start the day with a continental breakfast of juices, tea or coffee, cereal or porridge and toast – prior to the morning activity. Following this a large brunch is served. Thereafter high tea is served before the afternoon activity. Dinner is served after the evening activity.

The camps can cater to specific dietary requests. Please advise your special requirements (at time of booking) and we will ensure your needs are met.

BEVERAGES

In most camps alcoholic beverages are included in the daily tariff. Bottled water is available at all times. Many people enquire whether they can eat salads (as ingredients have been washed in water), brush their teeth with the tap water and have ice in their drinks. In the camps we use there are no concerns in this regard.

Tap water in Tanzania is generally not safe to drink, and most travellers try to stick to bottled water. The camps, lodges and hotels you visit have bottled water readily available.

Just south of the equator, Tanzania is huge and its sheer size means that the climate varies considerably within it. Temperatures are moderate throughout the year with average daytime temperatures around 21-26 C / 70-80 F. June is the coolest month as it is mid winter

SUMMER: November to March
• Average Minimum: 17C / 64F
• Average Maximum: 29C / 85F

AUTUMN: April to May
• Average Minimum: 16C / 62F
• Average Maximum: 28C / 82F

WINTER: June to August
• Average Minimum: 10C / 54F
• Average Maximum: 23C / 76F

SPRING: September to October
• Average Minimum: 16C / 61F
• Average Maximum: 30C / 86F

Packing for a safari is simple.  Dress requirements are casual and there is a limit to how much luggage you are allowed due to the size of the light aircraft holds.  All camps offer a daily laundry service (generally included in the tariff), so you don’t need to overpack. Of course, there are nuances depending upon the destination and the activities that you are undertaking.

As a rule, lightweight, light coloured, sun protective clothing  is preferable.    Avoid dark  coloured clothing as the African sun can be hot and dark colour’s absorb heat and attract biting flies (such as tsetse fly) in the few areas they are prevalent.  Garments of neutral colour’s that blend with the bush are recommended for activities where you will be walking, mokoro/canoeing etc.  When in a boat or a game-drive vehicle, colour is not such an issue. In short, there is no need to refit your entire wardrobe with safari coloured clothing.

BAGGAGE:

Because most safaris use light aircraft to transfer you between camps, there is a weight restriction on luggage. This differs across regions and is either 15 kg/33 lbs. or 20 kg/44 lbs. including hand luggage (your consultant will advise you on your weight allowance) . Soft side bags are mandatory; the bag can have wheels. Bags need to be maneuvered into the aircraft holds and therefore need to be flexible.

As a rule lightweight, light coloured cottons are preferable. Avoid synthetic materials and black clothing, as they increase perspiration and discomfort. Garments of neutral colours that blend with the bush and forest are advisable for safaris and game viewing particularly if walking.

Suggested packing list:

The following is a guide to clothing and personal items:

1. Safari:

• 2/3 pairs of long trousers or shorts, 3 shirts, preferably long sleeved and collared. Clothing should preferably be khaki or neutral colour’s.
• At least four neat casual clothes for evening wear.  Long-sleeved shirt and trousers (and the female equivalent) are recommended for keeping mosquitoes at bay in the evenings
• A light fleece for morning and evening game drives.
• 3 pairs of socks (cotton)
• A lightweight waterproof jacket (preferably GORETEX or the equivalent) in case of rain
• Comfortable closed footwear plus a pair of runners/strapped sandals (in case your regular footwear gets wet).
• 1 pair of flip flops/sandals for the afternoons and evening
• A wide brimmed hat or cap
• 2 Pairs of light pants/jeans
• 2 T-shirts
• Underwear (sports bras recommended)
• Swimsuit
• Fleece and Tracksuit pants for the morning and evening game drives
• Belt
• Scarf & beanie

ii.      Sundries

• Sunglasses and an extra pair of prescription glasses
• Binoculars and Camera
• Cash for curios and tips (smaller denomination notes for tipping)
• Travel Insurance information kept on hand

iii.  Toiletries:

Toiletries as appropriate - soaps, shampoos and body lotion are provided in the camps however some guests like to bring their own.

• Plenty of max factor sunscreen
• Lip balm with sunscreen
• Moisturiser or Vaseline as the air is very dry
• Shampoo, conditioner and liquid soap of your choice (smaller bottles recommended)
• Deodorant
• Toothpaste and toothbrush
• Wash cloth
• Gloves/Hand warmers (optional)
• Razor and Tweezers
• Hairbrush
• Hand/body - face lotion
• Small insect repellent (the camps do have these, but if you want your own)
• Antihistamine cream and tablets
• Paracetamol in case of a headache
• Rehydrate salts
• Hairbrush
• Hand/body - face lotion
• Small insect repellent (the camps do have these, but if you want your own)
• Antihistamine cream and tablets
• Paracetamol in case of a headache
• Rehydrate salts

As a final comment a daily laundry service is provided in most camps (except smalls), and is included in the tariff, so there is no need to pack too much.

Electric Power is 220V - 240V running at 50Hz. The Plug type used in Tanzania is the 3 large flat prong (UK). If your appliances are compatible with 220V-240V electrical output, an adapter is all that you will need, if not a voltage converter will be necessary.

POWER IN CAMPS

Most camps have no access to regular electrical power as they are located in such remote areas. Camps are solar-powered or have generators on site that produce 220V electricity. These run for between 4-6 hours per day, when clients are out on game drives. There is ample electricity for charging batteries for video cameras/iPods etc. and most camps have adaptor plugs.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

It is highly recommended that clients obtain comprehensive Travel Insurance cover. Please furnish Epic with a copy of your insurance policy prior to travel.
If you require assistance with travel insurance please click on the following link - Travel Insurance.

• Hospitalisation and Repatriation
• Cancellation and Missed flight connections
• Loss of baggage and loss/breakage of valuables en route
• Loss/breakage of valuables such as cameras

PHOTOGRAPHY

Digital cameras are the best for wildlife, with a good zoom up to 300mm or more. If you have an SLR it is a good idea to bring a point and shoot as back up. Remember to bring plenty of memory cards, spare batteries and battery chargers (Please check that you have all your chargers for cell phones, iPods, kindles, camera and video batteries).

If you need to or are interested in hiring a lense to take with you, here are a couple of websites for you to take a look at:

In the USA  - https://www.lensrentals.com

In Australia -  https://rentalens.com.au/index.php or http://www.camerahire.com.au/hire/digital-slr

GRATUITIES

Although tipping is not compulsory, if service expectations are exceeded, we recommend the following:

• Airport/Hotel Porters/Bag carriers: USD 2.00 per porter
• Transfer only guides: USD 5.00 per group per transfer.
• Private Safari vehicle Driver-Guide (Full day or multi day): Between USD 15.00 – USD25.00 per guest per day. Hand to the driver/guide directly at the end of the stay. For 4+ guests, a bit less per person is fine since the total adds up.
• Shared Safari Vehicle (game drives with camp guide): Between USD 10.00 – USD15.00 per guest per day. Hand to the driver/guide directly at the end of the stay.
• Local Tour Leaders/Professional Local guides: USD 40.00 per group per day, hand directly to the guide at the end of the trip.
• Butler (if you have one at the lodge): USD 15.00 per guest per day. Hand to the butler directly at the end of the stay.
• General Camp Staff: Between USD 10.00 – USD20.00 per guest per day. This can be placed in a communal tip box or hand to the camp manager at the end of the stay for the staff pool (housekeepers, waiters, back-of-house).
• Community Excursions: USD 10.00 per guest, to be given to the village leader for distribution.
• Kilimanjaro climbers 8 to 9 day - Luxury/VIP climbs: USD 400.00 per person. This covers all staff on the climb.

LANGUAGE

The national language is Kiswahili, with English also in everyday use. Phrasebooks are freely available.

POPULATION

The current population is estimated at 59 million.

RELIGION

Christian, Muslim, indigenous beliefs

RECOMMENDED READING

• Scramble for Africa -Thomas Pakenham
• The Shackled Continent -Robert Guest
• Into Africa: The Epic Adventures of Stanley and Livingstone - Martin Dugard
• Being Maasai - Edited by Thomas Spear & Richard Waller
• The Worlds of a Maasai Warrior: An Autobiography - Tepilit Ole Saitoti
• Safari – A Chronicle of Adventure - Bartle Bull
• The Tree Where Man was Born – Peter Matthiessen
• Lunatic Express – Charles Miller
• Barefoot over the Serengeti — David Read
• Africa Adorned - Angela Fisher Elephant
• Memories - Cynthia Moss
• Serengeti Shall not Die - Bernhard Grzimek
• Kingdom of the Lions - Jonathan Scott
• The Hadza - Hunter-Gatherers of Tanzania - Frank Marlowe

Animals - Conservation - Reference:

• Almost Human – Shirley Strom
• Elephant Memories – Cynthia Moss
• Natural Connections – Dr David Western
• Wildlife of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda – David Hosking
• Mammals of East Africa – Chris Stuart
• Field Guide to the Birds of East Africa – Stevenson & Fanshawe
• Behavior Guide to African Mammals – Richard Despard Estes
• Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa – Stephen Spawls
• Safari Companion, A Guide to Watching African Mammals - Richard Estes

Movies & Documentaries:

• The Ghost & the Darkness, 1966
• Echo and Other Elephants, 1966
• To Walk with Lions, 1999
• Nowhere in Africa, 2001 
• The Constant Gardener, 2005
• Born Wild, 2011
• African Cats, 2011
• Planet Earth Live, 2012

Apps:

• eGuide to Birds of East Africa - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/eguide-to-birds-of-east-africa/id586867795
• Kingdon guide to African Mammals - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-kingdon-guide-to-african-mammals/id336901877
• Tracks of Central Africa - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/tracks-of-central-africa/id516140448
• Trees of East Africa - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/useful-trees-of-east-africa/id981531635
• Swahili Phrasebook - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/swahili-phrasebook/id980990946
• Skyview - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.t11.skyviewfree&hl=en_ZA
•  iTrack Africa - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/itrack-africa/id952350873

Uganda, famously known as the “Pearl of Africa”a name popularised by Winston Churchill is a country of remarkable contrasts. The north is characterised by relatively dry, open savanna, while the west is dominated by verdant mountains and the central region by vast, dense and remarkably lush forests.

The country is home to an astonishing diversity of African wildlife, including the highly endangered mountain gorilla, found in the ancient Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Queen Elizabeth National Park is another popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering the chance to see four of the Big Five, flamboyant flocks of flamingos and the rare tree-climbing lions of Ishasha.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Uganda offers an abundance of adventure, from whitewater rafting and kayaking to hiking, quad biking and horse riding. Add to this the warmth of its people, a burgeoning cultural scene and a capital city filled with lively bars, clubs and restaurants, and it is easy to understand why Uganda has earned a reputation as “Africa’s friendliest country.”

VISA

It is the responsibility of the client to obtain their own visas.  Please apply for the online visa between 1 – 3 months before departure (not earlier).

A visa is required for travellers from countries that are not visa-exempt. The Uganda Ordinary/Tourist Visa (single entry) currently costs USD 50 and is valid for up to three months.

Applications should be made through the official Uganda Immigration online visa portal - https://visas.immigration.go.ug

For a tourist visa, applicants are required to provide a clear copy of their passport biodata page, a recent passport-size photograph and supporting travel information. 

A valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is only required if you have travelled through or transited a country where there is a risk of yellow fever transmission, such as Kenya.

NOTE:

1. Your passport must have at least six months’ validity at the time of entry into Uganda.
2. Visa applications are submitted online. Payment can be made using Visa or Mastercard, and online payments are subject to a 3% surcharge.
3. Once your application has been approved, an Approval Letter/Travel Authorisation will be issued electronically. You should print the approval letter and carry it with you when travelling, together with your valid passport and supporting documents.
4. On arrival in Uganda, immigration officials will complete the required entry procedures, including biometric capture where applicable.
5. Visa requirements and fees can change. Always check the official Uganda Immigration website before submitting your application, and use only the official portal. Uganda Immigration has specifically warned travellers about fraudulent visa websites.

CURRENCY

The local currency is the Uganda Shilling (UGX). Banknotes are issued in denominations of UGX 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000 and 1,000. Coins are available in denominations of UGX 500, 200, 100, 50, 10, 5, 2 and 1. The UGX 1,000 banknote is being replaced by a coin.

Where possible, avoid accepting very old or damaged banknotes, as some businesses may refuse them.

US dollars, euros and pounds sterling are recognised and widely used foreign currencies in Uganda, particularly in the tourism industry. Other international currencies may be accepted in major cities, but exchanging or using them can be more difficult in smaller towns and rural areas.

Foreign currency can be exchanged at commercial banks, authorised foreign-exchange bureau and the Central Bank. Please note that US dollar banknotes issued before 2006 may not be accepted for exchange.

BANKING

Banking hours are generally Monday to Friday, 08h30–14h00, and Saturday, 09h00–12h00. Foreign-exchange bureau may remain open until approximately 17h00 and some offer electronic transfers to and from overseas.

American Express, Mastercard and Visa cards are accepted at some larger hotels, restaurants, travel agencies and shops in urban areas, but card payments are not universally available.

ATMs are available in larger cities, while access is more limited in smaller towns and rural areas. We recommend checking with your bank before travelling to confirm that your card will work with Ugandan ATMs and to enquire about any international transaction fees.

Traveller’s cheques are not widely accepted outside Kampala. If you choose to use them, US dollars or pounds sterling are generally the most practical currencies.

We recommend carrying sufficient US dollars in cash as a backup for emergencies, particularly when travelling to remote areas. Where possible, carry newer, undamaged notes, as these are more readily accepted. Higher-denomination US dollar notes may also attract better exchange rates than smaller denominations.

GETTING AROUND UGANDA

Aerolink (www.aerolinkuganda.com) Uganda offers scheduled and charter domestic flights, providing a convenient way to travel between major destinations and remote safari areas.

CAR HIRE & SELF-DRIVE

Self-drive and private vehicles with a driver are other options for getting around Uganda. International car-hire companies operate near Entebbe International Airport and in central Kampala.

A four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended for travelling in rural and remote areas, particularly during the rainy seasons. Speed limits are generally 80 km/h (50 mph) on many roads and 100 km/h (62 mph) on highways, although lower limits may apply in built-up areas and where signs indicate.

Most car-hire companies provide breakdown assistance. The Automobile Association of Uganda (AAU) can also provide motoring information and assistance.

If driving in Uganda, travellers should ensure they have the appropriate driving documentation, including an International Driving Permit where required, adequate third-party insurance and all necessary vehicle documentation. Drivers may also be required to carry the vehicle logbook and obtain a temporary road license where applicable.

ROAD CONDITIONS & SAFETY

Road conditions vary considerably. While many major roads are paved, numerous minor and side roads remain unpaved and can be dusty, uneven, pot-holed or difficult to navigate. Extra caution is recommended during the rainy season.

The road network radiates largely from Kampala, while coverage is more limited in the north. Army and police checkpoints may be encountered on some roads; follow instructions from officials and keep the required vehicle and identification documents readily available.

For security, keep vehicle doors locked while driving and avoid leaving valuables visible inside the vehicle.

TAXIS

Private taxis are generally identifiable by their black-and-white markings. Road conditions and driving standards can vary, so passengers should feel comfortable asking their driver to slow down if necessary. Road accidents are relatively common, and extra caution is advisable.

CYCLING

Cycling in Uganda can be challenging, particularly on busy roads, where traffic, roadworks, dust and uneven surfaces can make conditions difficult for cyclists.

Always wear a properly fitted helmet, use front and rear lights or reflectors where appropriate, and consider using a rear-view mirror. Avoid cycling after dark.

Medical requirements:

Before travelling, please consult your General Practitioner (GP) or nearest Traveller’s Medical Centre for advice on any medical requirements relevant to your destination.

For further information and up-to-date travel health advice, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) travel destinations website - http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list

COMMUNICATION

All camps maintain 24-hour radio contact with their base support headquarters, while each game-drive vehicle is equipped with radio contact with its camp.

The daily camp tariff includes an allowance for emergency evacuation insurance. In the event of a medical emergency, evacuation will be arranged to the nearest appropriate town or medical facility. This is where your own travel insurance cover will generally begin.

CELL PHONES

Quad-band mobile phones with international roaming generally work in major urban centres. However, mobile coverage is limited or unavailable at many safari camps and remote areas.

WI-FI / INTERNET

Internet access can be limited throughout Africa and varies considerably from camp to camp. Please refer to the camp information for specific details.

TRAVEL ADVICE & WARNINGS

We strongly recommend that you review the latest travel advice for your destination country or countries before booking your trip and continue to monitor this advice regularly before and during your travels.

Australia: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au

UK: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

USA: https://travel.state.gov/en/international-travel/travel-advisories.html

REGISTER YOUR TRAVEL

We recommend registering your travel with your relevant government travel registration service, where available. These services can help authorities contact or assist you in the event of an emergency and may provide important updates while you are abroad.

Australia - Smart Traveller service - https://orao.dfat.gov.au/pages/

USA - Smart Traveller service - https://step.state.gov/step/

FOOD & WATER SAFETY

Tap water: Not recommended for drinking. Bottled or treated water is advisable.
Fresh fruit & vegetables: Generally safe when washed thoroughly or peeled.
Ice: Use caution; only consume ice made from safe, treated water.
Meat: Generally safe when thoroughly cooked and served hot.
Street food: Use caution; choose busy stalls where food is freshly prepared and cooked thoroughly.

LOCAL CUISINE

Ugandan cuisine reflects the country’s diverse ethnic heritage, together with influences from neighbouring countries and other cultures. Staple foods include matooke (cooked green bananas), posho (maize meal) and rice.

Popular dishes include Luwombo, a slow-cooked or steamed stew traditionally prepared with meat, fish or vegetables; Rolex, a popular street-food dish consisting of chapati wrapped around eggs and vegetables; and Nyama Choma, grilled meat that is particularly popular across East Africa.

Ugandan cuisine is generally hearty and flavourful, with a variety of spices, herbs and locally sourced ingredients.

DRINKS

Notable local beverages include Waragi, a locally produced spirit traditionally associated with banana-based distillation; Tonto, a traditional fermented banana drink; and Malwa, a fermented beverage traditionally made from millet.

Bottled water is widely available and is recommended for drinking when travelling, particularly outside major towns and cities.

TIPPING

Tipping is not generally mandatory in Uganda but is appreciated for good service. As a general guideline, 5–10% is appropriate in restaurants and for other services where a service charge has not already been included.

CLIMATE

Uganda has a generally warm, tropical climate, although temperatures and rainfall vary considerably by region and altitude.

Annual rainfall: Approximately 1,200 mm on average
Average temperature: 23°C

SUMMER

Average high: 27°C
Average low: 16°C

WINTER

Average high: 26°C
Average low: 15°C

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit Uganda is generally during the drier seasons, from June to August and December to February. These periods typically offer more favourable conditions for wildlife viewing, gorilla trekking and other outdoor activities. However, Uganda can be visited throughout the year, and conditions vary between regions.

INTERNET AVAILABILITY

Internet access is increasingly available in Uganda, particularly in larger towns and tourist areas, although connectivity can be limited in remote locations and safari camps.

Location Internet availability

Cafés/Restaurants - Generally Limited

Accommodation - Generally available

Shopping malls- Generally available in major cities

WHAT TO WEAR

Lightweight, light-coloured cotton clothing is generally recommended for Uganda’s warm climate. Avoid heavy synthetic fabrics and black clothing where possible, as they can increase heat absorption, perspiration and discomfort.

For safaris and game viewing, particularly when walking, neutral-coloured clothing such as khaki, beige, olive or brown is advisable. These colours blend more naturally with the bush and forest environment.

Comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended for outdoor activities. A lightweight waterproof jacket or rain layer is also useful, particularly during the wetter seasons.

Suggested packing list:

The following is a guide to clothing and personal items:

1. Safari:

• 2/3 pairs of long trousers or shorts, 3 shirts, preferably long sleeved and collared. Clothing should preferably be khaki or neutral colour’s.
• At least four neat casual clothes for evening wear.  Long-sleeved shirt and trousers (and the female equivalent) are recommended for keeping mosquitoes at bay in the evenings
• A light fleece for morning and evening game drives.
• 3 pairs of socks (cotton)
• A lightweight waterproof jacket (preferably GORETEX or the equivalent) in case of rain
• Comfortable closed footwear plus a pair of runners/strapped sandals (in case your regular footwear gets wet).
• 1 pair of flip flops/sandals for the afternoons and evening
• A wide brimmed hat or cap
• 2 Pairs of light pants/jeans
• 2 T-shirts
• Underwear (sports bras recommended)
• Swimsuit
• Fleece and Tracksuit pants for the morning and evening game drives
• Belt
• Scarf & beanie

ii.      Sundries

• Sunglasses and an extra pair of prescription glasses
• Binoculars and Camera
• Cash for curios and tips (smaller denomination notes for tipping)
• Travel Insurance information kept on hand

iii.  Toiletries:

Toiletries as appropriate - soaps, shampoos and body lotion are provided in the camps however some guests like to bring their own.

• Plenty of max factor sunscreen
• Lip balm with sunscreen
• Moisturiser or Vaseline as the air is very dry
• Shampoo, conditioner and liquid soap of your choice (smaller bottles recommended)
• Deodorant
• Toothpaste and toothbrush
• Wash cloth
• Gloves/Hand warmers (optional)
• Razor and Tweezers
• Hairbrush
• Hand/body - face lotion
• Small insect repellent (the camps do have these, but if you want your own)
• Antihistamine cream and tablets
• Paracetamol in case of a headache
• Rehydrate salts
• Hairbrush
• Hand/body - face lotion
• Small insect repellent (the camps do have these, but if you want your own)
• Antihistamine cream and tablets
• Paracetamol in case of a headache
• Rehydrate salts

As a final comment a daily laundry service is provided in most camps (except smalls), and is included in the tariff, so there is no need to pack too much.

ELECTRICITY & PLUG TYPE

Plug Type: Type G
Voltage: 240 V
Frequency: 50 Hz

A travel plug adapter and/or voltage converter may be required depending on the appliances you plan to use. Please check your appliances’ voltage requirements before travelling.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Epic strongly recommends that all clients obtain comprehensive travel insurance before travelling. Please provide Epic with a copy of your insurance policy prior to departure.

Your policy should ideally provide adequate cover for:

• Hospitalisation and medical expenses
• Emergency evacuation and repatriation
• Trip cancellation and missed flight connections
• Loss, theft or damage to baggage and personal belongings
• Loss, theft or damage to valuables, including cameras and photographic equipment

Please check that your policy provides appropriate cover for all planned activities, particularly safari activities, trekking and other adventure experiences.

PHOTOGRAPHY & BINOCULARS

Digital cameras are ideal for wildlife photography. A camera with a good zoom lens of 300 mm or more is recommended for capturing wildlife at a distance. If travelling with an SLR or mirrorless camera, consider bringing a compact camera or smartphone as a convenient backup.

Remember to bring plenty of memory cards, spare batteries and battery chargers. Check that you have chargers and cables for all your electronic devices, including mobile phones, e-readers, cameras and video equipment.

Binoculars are extremely useful for viewing wildlife at a distance. 7×35 mm or 8×32 mm binoculars offer a good balance between magnification and portability. For a more compact option, 7×25 mm or 8×25 mm binoculars are lightweight and easy to carry.

Well-known brands such as Nikon and Canon offer a range of suitable binoculars and photographic equipment.

Have a look at the following website for further ideas - www.consumersearch.com/binoculars

GRATUITIES

Tipping is not compulsory in Uganda, but it is customary and appreciated when good service is provided. The following amounts are offered as general guidelines:

• Airport/Hotel Porters/Bag carriers: USD 2.00 per porter
• Transfer only guides: USD 5.00 per group per transfer.
• Private safari vehicle driver-guide (full day or multi-day): USD 15–25 per guest, per day. Hand directly to the driver-guide at the end of the stay. For groups of four or more, a slightly lower amount per person may be appropriate.
• Shared safari vehicle driver-guide: USD 10–15 per guest, per day. Hand directly to the driver-guide at the end of the stay.
• Local tour leaders/professional local guides: USD 40 per group, per day. Hand directly to the guide at the end of the trip.
• Butler (where provided): USD 15 per guest, per day. Hand directly to the butler at the end of the stay.
• General camp staff: USD 10–20 per guest, per day. This can be placed in the communal tip box or given to the camp manager for distribution among the wider camp team, including housekeepers, waiters and back-of-house staff.
• Community excursions: USD 10 per guest, given to the village leader for distribution within the community.