Frequently Asked Questions About Uganda Rwanda Kenya And Tanzania

Frequently Asked Questions About Uganda Rwanda Kenya And Tanzania includes asking Getting To Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya And Tanzania Several International carriers are available. Please contact your travel agent for reservations. Each country can also be reached by overland from either neighboring countries.

Passport And Visas

A valid Passport is mandatory and visa requirements sometimes change so check before travel. Otherwise visa can be purchased on arrival at all International Airports or land border. Please note that you need to apply for Rwanda visa via the internet at www.migration.gov.rw .

Health/Medical

A certificate of yellow fever vaccination is required. Visitors should take malaria precautions. It is advisable to drink bottled water, available throughout the country, rather than tap water. Seek medical advice before traveling. Bring any personal medication required. Anti Malaria tab lets and insect repellent are essential.

Insurance

All clients are advised to have adequate personal insurance before departure for the duration of their tour.

Money

The unit of currency is the Uganda shillings. All major currencies are accepted although the US dollar is the most common and only currencies of 2006 and above are allowed. Old and dirty notes are usually not accepted for dollars. Cash or travelers cheques can be changed for local currency at banks and forex bureaus in all large towns. ATM machines are available in Kampala, and a few major towns, only cash is accepted in most places. Master cards, visa cards and credit and debit cards are accepted at some facilities.

Language

Educated Ugandans are generally fluent in English, the official language. There are also other 30 or more different local languages.

When To Visit

Any time, though mountain hikes, gorilla tracking and forest walks are more challenging during the rains, which generally peak over mid-September to November and March to May.

Clothing

Day time 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 hike in the mountains will be exposed to alpine temperatures and should pack accordingly. Sold walking shoes and sturdy clothing are ideal for forest walks. Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunglasses and waterproof jacket.

Car Hire And Driving

Driving is on the left side. Several car rental companies operate out of Kampala. Visitors without experience of African roads are advised to organize a vehicle with a driver rather than self-drive.

Accomodation And Food

International quality hotels exist in most large towns and national parks. Comfortable midrange and budget accommodation is found in all main tourist centers. Hotels and restaurants serve good western food though in the capital a wider range of cuisine is available. Local restaurants serve Uganda dishes.

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory, but a small gratuity is always appreciated.

Weather

Uganda is at the Equator as a result the climate does not change much, this makes Uganda and the rest of the east African countries all year round destinations. The rainy seasons tend to be from March to April and October to November, but this varies in different areas and it can rain any time of the year especially.

Time

Uganda is three hours ahead of GMT.

What To Bring

To fully enjoy your holiday, carry some binoculars, photographer may need a zoom lens for wildlife (70-300 r similar) print film is available in Kampala. Toiletries and other essentials can be bought in any major retail shops.

Security

For latest information consult the relevant Government consular advice or get in touch with us. Basic precautions should be taken, as in all countries and common sense used. Do not carry excessive jewellery and money or leave then lying around. Use safe deposit boxes where available; secure travel documents and valuables. Do not walk unescorted at night.

Telephone/Internet

International telephone communication is very good from Kampala and all other Capital Cities in Town in East Africa but more difficult in some upcountry areas. The Mobile Telephone network in good and rapidly expanding. Most European or American Mobile phones with reaming agreement work in Uganda and the rest of East Africa. Local SIM cards can also be purchased in any major outlets at the airport and the major cities and towns. Internet facilities are also available Kampala, Nairobi, Kigali and Dar-salaam and in Major towns in East Africa

although the quality and speed of connection varies.

Photography

Not allowed near military buildings or soldiers. Before photographing people it is important to ask politely. Bring sufficient films, for digital photography please carry with you extra batteries and a car charger as not all lodges/camps have electricity.

Gorilla Tracking Equipment

Warm clothes, Fleece or light wool sweater, Moisture wicking undergarments, lightweight wool socks, Long-sleeved shirt, strong waterproof walking boots (comfortable for going up and down steep hills), sturdy trousers, sunglasses, a torch, fast film binoculars, sun screen, a sun hat, a breathable lightweight rain poncho or parka with a rain hat, gloves to grip vegetation (inexpensive gardening gloves work well) and a small backpack to carry water and a packed lunch. It is best to have layers of clothing as temperatures tend to change. The guides will make you a walking stick if needed.

Electricity

Uganda: 240 volts. 3-pin square sockets. Rwanda 230/240 volts at 50 Hz. 2-pin round socket. It is best to travel with you adaptor. In case of anything that is not clear please contact your guide.

Further Information

For further information about attractions or anything you can please ask your guide or contact us on info@journeysuganda.com or call us on 0782531915l0701531915 or visit our offices at Teacher’s House Bombo Road Suite 302.