Safety in Uganda for Tourists – Is it safe to visit Uganda?  Uganda is a safe country for tourists who travel with reputable tour operators and take necessary precautions to avoid falling victim to tourist scams and petty crime. If you are planning a safari to Uganda and wondering if Uganda is safe? Safety in Uganda for Tourists is guaranteed if you adhere to the provided guidelines and advice from your tour operator. Uganda is known as one of the friendliest countries to visit in Africa, and you will enjoy unmatched friendly treatment.

Although Uganda's turbulent political history and the ever-present threat of terrorism has marred its reputation as a popular tourist destination, however, the country has worked hard to change this negative perception.

The Ugandan Police Force (UPF) has driven public safety initiatives that have led to a reduction in crime, and they have put exceptional security measures in place to combat the threat of terrorism. Although the security in Uganda is improving day by day, as you travel to Uganda, we recommend you to practice caution and avoid the NO-GO areas in Uganda, such as the Karamoja region, or anywhere close to Uganda's border with South Sudan, and The Democratic Republic of Congo.

To have a safe and enjoyable trip, we advise you to follow the guidelines that will be given to you by you safari your guide. It is also important to be vigilant while traveling through the country and also to practice caution especially in busy areas. Uganda safaris are undoubtable remarkable and will allow you to experience some of the world’s best safari activities and experiences like mountain gorilla trekking, Chimpanzee trekking, wildlife viewing safaris among others. If you adhere to all the guidelines that will be issued to you by your safari guide, you are likely to leave this incredibly beautiful and mesmerizing country with nothing more than fabulous memories.

Is Uganda safe politically?

Politically, Uganda is considered a safe country. Although the county still grapples with a persistent power struggle that leads to sporadic civil unrest and the ongoing threat of terrorism, Uganda is politically safe. The government, which is democratically elected, has managed to rid the country of its violent past, thereby ushering in a period of political stability and economic prosperity.

Uganda gained independence from Britain in 1962, but its journey towards stability was marred by a brutal military rule until 1979. The country's political stability was further shaken by election results that were violently disputed and a 5-year civil war. However, the current President, Yoweri Museveni, came into power in 1986 and has since brought a measure of stability in the country.

Today, Uganda enjoys a decent level of political stability and security, and the international community commends its remarkable turnaround. However, certain parts of Uganda are still considered no-go areas for tourists due to the criminal activities of roving bandits. It is particularly important to avoid traveling at night in these parts and we recommend you to avoid travel alone.

Terror threats in Uganda

Uganda has experienced a number of terrorism acts in the past however, these acts have been sporadic and not necessarily targeted at foreigners. After the terror attack at a hotel in Nairobi, the Uganda government has intensified security measures to protect its citizens and visitors. This includes increased police presence and security checks, in particular baggage checks and car searches in public places and hotels.

Back in 2010, Kampala was bombed and the Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility. Over 70 people were killed and many more injured. The attacks were linked to Uganda’s military presence in Somalia as part of an African Union peacekeeping mission.

If you are traveling to Uganda, we recommend you to be vigilant all through your safaris as it will help you stay safe during your Uganda safaris tour. It is also ideal to travel with a reputable tour operator that will ensure your safety at all times  - by avoid places that are prime targets for a terrorist attack.

Where to avoid in Uganda – Non safe areas for safaris in Uganda

Karamoja region

The Karamoja region is occupied by the Karamojong people and is one of the non safe areas in Uganda. Although the Uganda government made a deal with the armed cattle rustles in the region, while traveling in this areas you are required to be vigilant and also travel with a local expert with great knowledge of the area.

Uganda's border with South Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo

While travelling to Uganda, the boarder areas iof her neighbouring countries like South Sudan and DRC are a no go zone. This is simply because of the insecurity and great risk of terror attack around these areas. We recommend not traveling beyond 30 kilometres to these areas.

Border control in Uganda

Uganda is regarded as a safe and politically stable country to visit; however, it is renowned for having porous borders that are not adequately monitored by the police force. As a result, there is a fairly unmanageable flow of illicit trade and immigration.

Areas flanking the western border of Uganda should be avoided because of the risk of rebel groups operating in the region. Uganda’s northern border with Southern Sudan is deemed a no-go area because there is limited police presence to control bandit activities which are a spillover from Southern Sudan.

Civil unrest in Uganda

While visiting Uganda as a foreign tourist, there is a medium-to-low risk of experiencing civil unrest, public protests, strikes, demonstrations, and political violence. These events usually occur during times of political uncertainty around elections, wage negotiations, or protests against high commodity prices, power outages, and hikes in interest rates.

Protests and demonstrations tend to be peaceful and usually take place in the capital city of Kampala and other major towns and cities. We keep ourselves updated with the latest current affairs in the country and will redirect routes to gorilla trekking destinations if there is any likelihood of unrest or conflict in an area.

Crimes & robbery in Uganda

There has been a notable reduction in crime rates in Uganda due to increased policing efforts. However, tourists should still take the usual precautions to ensure their safety and avoid falling victim to petty crime and tourist scams.

During your visit to Kampala, you will see a rise in the number of police officers patrolling the streets. General crime in the city usually involves pickpocketing, smash-and-grab incidents, bag snatching, and muggings after dark. Violent crime is uncommon in the upmarket areas of major towns and cities in Uganda, and is more prevalent in impoverished areas.

It is important to keep in mind that Uganda is a very poor country with high unemployment and a high cost of living. When visiting local street markets, exercise caution and avoid flaunting your cash or wearing expensive jewelry. Keep your backpack or handbag securely closed and close to your body.

Theft from hotel rooms can occur if valuables are left in plain sight. Take advantage of the digital safes available in hotel rooms and, if possible, avoid leaving expensive equipment or money behind in your room.