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VISITOR
INFORMATION
Entebbe International Airport, which lies 40km from
the capital Kampala, is serviced by a number of international
airlines, including SN Brussels, British Airways, South
African Airways, Kenya Airways, Air Tanzania, Rwandair
Express, Egypt Air and Ethiopian Airlines. Uganda can
also be reached overland from Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania.
On Arrival
Customs and immigration officials are polite and efficient,
and a visa - for those who require one - can be purchased
on the spot at Entebbe International Airport or at any
overland border. Foreign exchange and ATM facilities
are available at the airport, which is also serviced
by several shops and restaurants. Most mid-range to
up market hotels in Kampala and Entebbe will arrange
airport transfers by request, as will any tour operator
based in or around the capital.
Health
A certificate of yellow fever vaccination is required.
All visitors should take malaria prophylactic drugs.
It is advisable to drink bottled rather than tap water.
Money
The unit of currency is the Uganda shilling. The US
dollar is traditionally the hard currency of preference,
but Euro and Pound Sterling are also widely accepted.
Hard currency cash can be changed for local currency
at banks and private bureau de change in all large towns,
but travelers’ cheques are not widely accepted
outside Kampala. Local currency can be drawn against
Visa and other major credit cards at selected ATMs in
Kampala, at Entebbe International Airport, and in a
few other large towns.
Language  Back
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Educated Ugandans are generally fluent in English, which
is the official language. Of 30-plus different indigenous
languages, Luganda serves as something of a lingua franca.
When to Visit
Uganda can be visited at any time, though mountain hikes,
gorilla tracking and other forest walks are more challenging
during the rains, which generally peak over mid-September
to November and March to May.
What
to wear Back
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Daytime temperatures are generally warm to hot, so bring
lots of light clothing. Evenings are cooler, especially
at high altitudes, so carry a couple of light sweaters
too. Those who intend to hike on the mountains will
be exposed to alpine temperatures and should pack accordingly.
Solid walking shoes and sturdy clothing are ideal for
forest walks. Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunglasses
and a waterproof jacket.
What
to Bring Back
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A valid passport is mandatory, and visa requirements
should be checked before you travel. To make the most
of the game reserves and national parks, carry binoculars
and field guides. Photographers will need a zoom lens
for wildlife (70-300 or similar). Print film and developing
is available in Kampala. Toiletries and other essentials
can be bought in the cities.
Driving Back
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Driving is on the left side. Visitors without experience
of African roads are advised to organize a vehicle with
a driver rather than self-drive.
Tipping Back
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Tipping is not standard practice at local hotels and
restaurants, but it will always be appreciated. It is
normal to tip 5-10% at tourist-oriented restaurants.
Guides and drivers should always be tipped.
Further information Back
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Uganda: The Bradt Travel Guide is one the most detailed
guidebooks in print. Other guidebooks are produced by
Lonely Planet, Footprint Guides and TourGuide Publications.
The Uganda Tourist Board website (www.visituganda.com)
contains information about all tourist attractions and
protected areas
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