Before you travel
Travellers' information
Practical guidance for a Uganda or Rwanda safari. Anything specific to your trip, we'll cover in your detailed pre-departure pack.
Visas & entry
Most visitors to Uganda and Rwanda need a visa, and both countries offer convenient electronic visas applied for before you travel. If you are visiting both, the East Africa Tourist Visa can cover Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya on a single multiple-entry visa. Requirements change, so always confirm the current rules with the official immigration portals before booking flights. We are glad to advise on which visa suits your route.
Health & vaccinations
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry to both Uganda and Rwanda, so carry it with your passport. Malaria is present, and antimalarial medication is strongly recommended — speak to a travel clinic well before departure. Bring any personal medication in its original packaging with a copy of the prescription. Check the latest advice from your own country's travel-health service ahead of time.
What to pack
Neutral, lightweight layers in greens and browns work best on safari — avoid bright colours and dark blue or black. For gorilla and chimpanzee trekking you'll want sturdy waterproof boots, long sleeves and trousers, gardening-style gloves for grip, and a light rain jacket; the forest is wet and steep. Add a hat, sunglasses, high-factor sun cream, insect repellent and a refillable water bottle. Pack a good camera, but leave the drone at home unless cleared in advance.
Gorilla & chimpanzee trekking readiness
Trekking can be demanding — hours on foot over uneven, muddy forest terrain at altitude. A reasonable level of fitness helps, but treks are paced to the group and porters are available to carry your daypack and lend a hand. The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15. Permits are limited and time-sensitive, so we secure them as soon as your dates are confirmed.
Money & payments
The US dollar is widely accepted for tourism services; bring notes printed in 2013 or later, as older notes are often refused. Local currency is useful for small purchases, tips and markets. Card acceptance is growing in towns and lodges but cannot be relied on everywhere, so carry some cash. ATMs are available in main centres.
Connectivity & power
Mobile coverage is good in towns and patchy in remote parks — a local SIM gives the best data value, and many lodges offer wi-fi. Power is 240V with UK-style three-pin sockets in both countries, so bring a UK or universal adaptor. A power bank is worth having for long days in the field.
Responsible travel
Our journeys are built to benefit the communities and wild places they visit. On treks, keep the recommended distance from primates, never use flash, and follow your ranger's guidance — it protects animals that share much of our DNA. Ask before photographing people, and support local craft and community projects where you can.
This page offers general guidance only. Visa, health and entry rules change — always confirm the current requirements with official sources before you travel.