Uganda is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Africa and if you wish to travel to this naturally endowed country you have to follow a few travel tips. These comprise packing your medical kit, proper two-layer clothes, National ID and passport, and other useful tools or items you may need while in the jungles.
Uganda is dubbed the Garden of Eden on earth and has been one of the most captivating places for travelers in Africa for several years. You can explore and marvel at the eye-catching natural beauty and attractions in their default state while engaging in a safari. Every year regardless of the travel season, tourists come to explore and enjoy its unique flora and fauna, lakes and river, mountains, diverse culture, and food. It can be utterly delightful to take up a Uganda safari and experience the relentless natural beauties that the area has to present for the visitors. Though, there are some travel tips that you need to consider when you wish to visit Uganda.
- Select the climatic period either the dry or wet season per your preferences. Uganda has very great weather conducive for safari tours. The country has two climatic seasons, the dry and wet but the sun comes out every day regardless of the weather condition. In the dry season which is January through March, June to Mid October, and December, there are little rainfalls and plenty of sunshine and in the wet season which is April through May and November receives some reasonable rain.
Most tourists prefer the dry spell because the skies and the surrounding 0f the jungles are bright, making it conducive for wildlife sightings and photography. Furthermore, the roads are dry and passable, hence making it easy self guided travelers who rent cars in Uganda to drive and explore on their own. The wet season also comes with its merits like the landscapes are green and breath-taking. The animals look healthier because of plenty of pasture and water in the National Parks. Though, it has a hurdle of slippery and impassable roads. It is upon the tourists to choose the best time to visit and enjoy Uganda. You have to plan and prepare for your travel according to your aspirations.
- For persons interested in the classic Uganda safari, you need to find a local tour operator beforehand to plan and arrange the different tour utilities such as things to do, accommodation, and ground transportation to your liking. This is the most convenient way of taking up a Uganda safari for most foreign travelers. The tour company normally organizes the tour activities to enjoy, the lodges to stay and transport means to use on behalf of the visitors.
If you wish to be part of the arrangements of the trip at all steps of the journey, you need to get in touch with a travel agent and get the maximum fun and experience. This is mainly recommended to foreign tourists. The travel agent will arrange everything for you and you will not have to take care of any specific aspect of your trip. You will have nothing more to do than enjoy the natural beauties and local attractions and take part in the most exciting activities that the place has to offer for trippers.
- Get vaccination shots for tropical diseases and Covid-19. Uganda has an utterly favorable climate but many foreign visitors are affected by the hot weather and its looming bacteria and germs. Therefore, they are advised to safeguard themselves against diseases such as malaria, typhoid, flu, Hepatitis A and B, and yellow fever by vaccinating and carrying antibiotics. The covid-19 jab was also added to the list ever since its outbreak in recent years. Tourists with underlying illnesses like hypertension, cardiac, cancer, diabetes, and many more should visit their doctors to advise them whether they can visit Uganda. While in Uganda, visitors are advised to sleep under a mosquito net and also drink bottled water to protect themselves from malaria and typhoid respectively.
- When going on a safari in Uganda, you need to carry all the necessary travel documents such as visa, ticket, passport, Covid-19 and Yellow fever vaccination cards, and national ID. You should reserve a hand purse or pack where you can easily access them when needed by the customs officers at the different airports you will be passing through. Remember to come along with your credit or visa card to bail you out in case any money issues arise.
- Uganda is located in the equatorial region, receiving a relatively hot climate throughout the year, do not forget to pack light clothes of two-layer material. The average temperature of the pearl of Africa is 28 degrees Celsius. However, at night the temperatures drop calling to wear a sweater. Though light clothes are advised, they should not dress skimpily. The Ugandan society is very sensitive about the dress code.
- Don’t forget to carry toiletries for your hygiene and sanitation. Items such as towels, soap, facemask, hand sanitizer, toothpaste and brush, body cream, and perfumes must be packed. Although you will be spending most of the time in the jungles sweating and tousling, you must keep your body cleanness in check. A clean body is a healthy one.
- Carry jungle attires such as jungle boots, polyester clothes, and a cap. They will provide comfort when engaging in various adventurous activities such as tracking experiences, hiking, and birding.
- A first aid kit must come in hand. Carry medical items required for quick remedy in case of minor injuries and any other body discomfort, for instance, medical spirit, deep heat, bandage, anti-allergic pills, pain killers, and antibiotics. Some activities to participate in during your Uganda safari are strenuous thus you being liable to injuries and body uneasiness.
- Ensure to have a Uganda travel guide book, the most renowned one is the Bradt Guide. The book can be used as a reference to comprehensively know what Uganda is about from the attractions, political situation, people, and culture to the economy.
- Try to know the traditions and culture of the people of Uganda. Request your safari guide to brief you about the code of conduct and safari etiquette. The best way to enjoy the cultural tours and befriend the people of Uganda is by respecting their traditions and norms.
The above tips are all-round, they can be taken into account by both tourists on Uganda guided tours and Uganda self drive safaris.
