Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, offers extraordinary wildlife encounters including mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. From the source of the Nile to diverse national parks and vibrant Kampala, Uganda combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
Uganda is generally safe for tourists in Kampala and the main national parks. Exercise normal urban caution in Kampala, avoid western border areas near DRC, and use registered transport. Most visitors experience Uganda as a welcoming and safe destination.
Current safety advisory
Moderate
Exercise increased caution. Avoid western border regions (DRC border), Karamoja region in northeast, and demonstrations. Remain vigilant in Kampala at night and use registered transport.
Last updated: 2025-06
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution in Uganda due to crime and terrorism risks. Avoid western border areas with DRC and large public gatherings.
Level 2 - Some Risks
Some areas of Uganda carry increased risk including western border with DRC and Karamoja region. Kampala and tourist areas are generally safe with normal precautions.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Avoid western border regions near DRC due to armed groups
Stay informed about political situation ahead of 2026 elections
Avoid large public gatherings and demonstrations
Keep supplies of water, food, medication, fuel and cash
Register with STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program)
Use registered taxis and avoid travel after dark
Be aware that LGBTQ+ activities are criminalized with severe penalties
Register your trip with your country's embassy in Kampala before arrival; the UK, US, and EU missions all offer 24/7 emergency lines.
Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry; carry your yellow card at all times as it may be checked at airports and some hotels.
Malaria is endemic year-round; take prophylactics prescribed by a doctor, use insect repellent (DEET 30%+), and sleep under a treated net.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Overcharging by unregistered taxis
Drivers at Entebbe Airport and tourist areas quote inflated prices to new arrivals, sometimes 5-10x the fair rate.
How to avoid: Use Uber or Bolt apps which show the price before you ride. Agree on price before entering any unmetered vehicle.
Gorilla permit scams
Fraudulent agents selling fake gorilla permits at prices below the official $800 rate. Permits purchased this way are invalid and non-refundable.
How to avoid: Only purchase gorilla permits directly from Uganda Wildlife Authority (uwa.go.ug) or licensed tour operators.
Currency exchange fraud
Street money changers and some forex bureaux offer attractive rates then shortchange customers or use sleight of hand.
How to avoid: Use bank ATMs or established forex bureaux in malls. Always count your money before leaving the counter.
Friendly stranger leading to robbery
Overly friendly strangers offering to show you around or invite you to a bar — sometimes leads to drink spiking, extortion, or robbery.
How to avoid: Be politely cautious with unsolicited offers of help from strangers. Arrange tours through established operators.
Boda boda overcharging
Motorcycle taxi drivers quote high prices to tourists unfamiliar with local rates, particularly near tourist sites.
How to avoid: Use SafeBoda app for registered drivers with transparent pricing, or ask your hotel for a fair price guide.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- Yellow fever vaccination MANDATORY - certificate required for entry. Recommended: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Rabies (if wildlife contact expected), Polio booster, MMR. Consult travel clinic 6-8 weeks before departure.
- Water
- Not safe to drink. Drink bottled or filtered water only. Avoid ice in drinks. Use bottled water for brushing teeth. Sealed bottled water widely available ($0.50-1 per liter).
- Food
- Facilities
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Kampala is generally safe for solo travelers during daylight hours in tourist areas. Use Uber or Bolt for transport, stay in established neighborhoods (Kololo, Nakasero, Kabalagala), keep valuables secure, and avoid walking alone at night. The national parks with guides are very safe.
Female travellers
Female travelers generally find Uganda welcoming and safe. Dress modestly outside tourist establishments to avoid unwanted attention. In Kampala, use taxis rather than walking at night, and avoid isolated areas. Safari guides and park staff are professional and respectful.
Families
Uganda is a family-friendly destination with many child-appropriate attractions. Murchison Falls boat safaris, Entebbe Botanical Gardens, Ngamba Island chimps, and Lake Mburo park are excellent for children. Note that gorilla trekking requires minimum age 15 and chimp tracking requires age 12.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Homosexuality is criminalized in Uganda under the Anti-Homosexuality Act with severe penalties including life imprisonment. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples are extremely dangerous. LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise extreme caution and complete discretion throughout Uganda.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 999
- Medical
- 911
- Embassy
- Tourist Police