We believe that it is safe to travel to Uganda for a safari or holiday trip. Our opinion is based on our experience traveling with foreigners within the country for the past few years. If you're concerned about Uganda Travel advisories, this article can help you understand the potential risks and how safe a Uganda safari can be. This complete Uganda Travel Advisory is base on the past experience and state of security in Uganda.
In this article, we'll discuss some of the factors that led us to this conclusion, including historical context, security concerns, crime rates, health considerations, and travel advisories for women. This might sound nice so let us get started sine the Ugandan jungles await you.
Safety & Security in Uganda
Uganda is considered generally a safe tourist destination because of its improved security provided by the Uganda People’s Defense forces (UPDF) and the Uganda police force. In Uganda, the most significant threat to life and limb does not come from banditry or political instability but rather from the malaria parasite and motor accidents. There have been a few occurrences of direct tourist attacks in Uganda, like the attack by DRC rebels on tourists driving through Ishasha in 2019 created a lot of fear and also proved that some areas may not be safe for travel in Uganda especially the border area to the Easter DRC.
Security in Uganda - Uganda Travel Advisory
Uganda in genera; is safe and only a few parts like the northwestern part of Uganda, particularly West Nile, suffered from internal instability and banditry due to the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) for over 20 years until 2010. However, the LRA was flushed into the Congo jungles, and the north is now safe for travel. The other area that faced instability is the northeast which is occupied by the Karamojong. This area was considered unsafe for safaris until when the Ugandan government made deals with armed Karamojong cattle rustlers. The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) also emerged in the mid-1990s but was driven back into the DRC by Ugandan government troops. While incidents may occur, Uganda is generally considered safer Africa Destination. If you are planning to Visit Uganda, we also recommend you stay updated on local media and avoid known trouble spots.
Uganda’s hospitality – Are Uganda people welcoming?
If you are looking forward to experiencing Uganda safari tours, here is what you can expect from the Ugandan National. There is a common media portrayal of African bureaucrats as being difficult and inefficient when dealing with tourists. However, this reputation is more reflective of Western prejudices than it is of Uganda. Although there may be the occasional unhelpful official, this is a universal occurrence and not exclusive to Uganda. In reality, the vast majority of officials in African countries are courteous and helpful when interacting with tourists, often going above and beyond to be accommodating.
In Uganda specifically, you can expect nothing but friendliness from practically every government official you encounter, whether it be border officials, policemen, or national park staff. This is a level of hospitality that most African visitors to Western countries will not experience from officials.
One factor that can influence the response you receive from Ugandan officials is your own attitude. If you approach each official encounter with aggression or paranoia, you may reinforce the belief held by many Ugandans that "Bazungu" (meaning Whites, which is also a local way of saying "Foreigners") are arrogant and dismissive towards other races. Instead, try to be friendly and patient, accepting that the person you are speaking to may not speak English as a first language and may have difficulty comprehending everything you say.
If you treat Ugandans with respect instead of disdain, you will experience nothing less than hospitability and unmatched care.
Uganda Travel advisory on Theft & Crime – All you need to know about petty crimes in Uganda
Uganda is known for being one of the safest countries to visit in Africa. Muggings and other petty thefts are uncommon, even in the largest city of Kampala. However, it's always better to be cautious and to stay safe during your safaris tour in Uganda. Here are some tips to keep in mind while traveling throughout Uganda:
Most thieves operate in crowded markets and busy areas in the city. Therefore, it's important to keep a close watch on your belongings in such places. Avoid carrying a large amount of money with you, and make use of the various financial technologies available such as ATMs, credit cards, and mobile money to pay for your expenses. To avoid attracting attention, we recommend using local currencies for payment while in such areas.
If you must carry cash with you, keep it in a hidden money belt and never show it in public. Keep your credit card and some spare cash in a secure place, such as a button-up pocket on the front of your shirt or money belts. It's also advisable to keep a small amount of hard currency hidden away in your luggage in case of an emergency.
Alternatively, you can make use of the various technologies available to travel with money, such as credit cards and mobile wallets. Most safari lodges in Uganda accept payments online, so it's worth checking with your travel operator before traveling to Uganda an finding the most convenient way for you.
If you have the option of leaving your valuables in a locked room, it's usually better to do so. However, be sure to use your judgement and ensure the room is secure before leaving your belongings. It's best to leave any jewelry or other valuable items at home, as they can be lost or stolen while travelling.
How to get around with money and valuable on a Trip in Uganda
When traveling in Uganda, it is highly recommended that you keep all your hard currency, passport, and other important documents safe by using a money belt. However, not all money belts are created equal, and it's important to choose the right one to ensure maximum protection of your valuables.
Ideally, you should opt for a money belt that can be easily hidden beneath your clothing. Avoid external money belts that may be fashionable, as they can attract unwanted attention and make you a target for thieves. Keep in mind that wearing an external money belt in Africa is almost like advertising all your valuables to potential thieves.
When choosing a money belt, go for one made of cotton or another natural fabric. However, you should also be aware that such fabrics tend to soak up a lot of sweat, so it's advisable to wrap plastic around everything inside to keep your documents and money dry.
Travel to Uganda today and experience unmatched safari experience in the Uganda jungles. Let us help you plan your Uganda safari tour today, boon a safari with confidence.
