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Travel Info

What to Know Before Your Trip.

Welcome to Bic Tours Uganda! If this is your first trip to East Africa, congratulations — you’re about to experience the Pearl of Africa and the Land of a Thousand Hills in a way few travelers ever do. We’ve helped thousands of first-timers from Europe, Asia, and the USA create safe, seamless, and unforgettable journeys. This guide covers everything you need to know before you arrive.

Visa Requirements

Uganda: Most nationalities (including USA, EU, UK, Canada, Australia, Asia) need an eVisa in advance – no visas on arrival. Apply online via the official portal (visas.immigration.go.ug) at least 2 weeks ahead. Cost: $50 for single-entry tourist visa (90 days). Pro Tip: Get the East African Tourist Visa ($100) if combining Uganda + Rwanda (or Kenya) – one application covers all.

Rwanda: Visa on arrival at Kigali Airport or borders for most visitors ($30–50 for 30 days). Or apply online/eVisa in advance. Some nationalities (e.g., certain African, Commonwealth) get free or extended visas.

 

Passport: Valid for 6+ months beyond your stay, with 1–2 blank pages.

Bic Tours Help: We guide you through applications and provide invitation letters.

Health & Vaccinations

Yellow Fever: Mandatory for Uganda (show certificate at entry). Required for Rwanda if arriving from an endemic country. Get vaccinated 10+ days before travel at a certified clinic.

Recommended Vaccines (consult your doctor 4–6 weeks ahead):

  • Hepatitis A & B
  • Typhoid
  • Tetanus/Diphtheria/Whooping Cough (Tdap)
  • MMR, Polio, COVID-19 (up to date)
  • Rabies (for primate areas)

 

Malaria: Common – take prophylaxis (e.g., Malarone). Use DEET repellent, long clothes at dusk.

Other: Drink bottled water, avoid street food initially. Travel insurance with medical evacuation is essential (covers gorilla treks).

Bic Tours Tip: We recommend clinics and can arrange on-site medical support.

Best TIme TO VISIT

  • Dry Seasons (best for new travelers): June–September & December–February. Easier trekking trails, better wildlife viewing, less rain.
  • Peak Gorilla Trekking: July–August & December–February (book permits 6–12 months early!).
  • Avoid heavy rains (March–May, October–November) if you’re fitness-limited – trails get muddy.
  • Year-round possible, but dry months = more comfortable for beginners.

Packing Essentials

Pack light (soft bag for safari vehicles). Focus on neutral colors (khaki, green, brown) for wildlife.

Clothing

Lightweight long-sleeve shirts/pants, fleece layer, waterproof jacket, hiking boots, quick-dry socks, hat

Trekking Gear

Daypack, walking stick (or rent), gloves, gaiters (for mud/ants)

Health/ Protection

Insect repellent, sunscreen, lip balm, personal meds, hand sanitizer

Tech/Other

Binoculars, power bank, universal adapter, cash (USD), reusable water bottle

Avoid

Bright colors, heavy luggage, drones (restricted)

TRAVEL TIPS

1. Safety Tips

  • Uganda & Rwanda are tourist-friendly and safe in national parks/cities (Kampala, Kigali).
  • Use licensed guides (we provide them!), avoid solo night walks, secure valuables.
  • Terrorism risk low in tourist areas – stick to main routes.
  • Download offline maps (Google Maps) and enroll in your embassy’s alert system (e.g., STEP for USA).

2. Money, Payments & Practicalities

  • Currency: Ugandan Shilling (UGX) & Rwandan Franc (RWF). Carry USD cash for tips/permits.
  • Cards accepted in lodges; ATMs in cities.
  • Tipping: $10–20/day for guides/drivers.
  • Language: English widely spoken.

3. Cultural Etiquette & Sustainability

  • Greet with a handshake and smile.
  • Dress modestly at cultural sites.
  • Support communities: Buy local crafts, avoid single-use plastics.
  • Gorilla Rules: 7m distance, no flash photos, no eating/drinking near them.