Call 0330 880 3600 Calls may be monitored or recorded. Opening Times.
- TRAVEL INSURANCE
- COVID-19 ENHANCED COVER
- More Options
- Help & Advice
- Existing Customers
Call 0330 880 3600 Calls may be monitored or recorded. Opening Times.
Need help?
UK Customer Services0330 880 3600*
Open Monday to Friday 9:00am to 6pm, Saturday 8:30am to 4pm and closed Sundays.
*Calls are recorded for training and quality purposes.
Official name: Republic of Uganda
Capital city: Kampala
Languages spoken: English, Swahili
Population: Around 48 million
Currency: Ugandan shilling (UGX)
Time zone: GMT+3
Driving side: Left
Climate: Warm year-round, with two rainy seasons (March–May and Sept–Nov) and drier months in between
Uganda, often called the “Pearl of Africa,” is a land of stunning contrasts - from lush rainforests and volcanic peaks to the mighty River Nile. It’s famous for gorilla trekking in Bwindi, wildlife safaris, and adventure activities on the Nile. Beyond nature, Uganda is lively and welcoming, with colourful markets and a rich cultural mix.
Travellers should be aware that Uganda has strict anti-LGBTQIA+ laws, and same-sex relationships are criminalised. Discrimination is possible, so caution is needed. Protests sometimes occur in Kampala and can turn violent, and border regions near South Sudan and the DRC may be unstable — best avoided by tourists.
Uganda is landlocked in East Africa, bordered by Kenya, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Tanzania. Much of the country lies on a plateau, with Lake Victoria (Africa’s largest lake) stretching across the south. The Rwenzori Mountains rise in the west, while savannahs, wetlands, and rainforests shape much of the rest of the country.
Most travellers arrive via Entebbe International Airport (EBB), around 40km from Kampala. Roads between towns are improving, though traffic in the capital can be chaotic, and buses and minibuses are often overcrowded. Uganda’s top highlights include gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, safaris in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls national parks, and white-water rafting near Jinja. The Rwenzoris offer challenging treks for those looking to push their limits.
UK travellers need a visa, which can be arranged online before arrival. An East African Tourist Visa is also available, covering Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda. The British High Commission is in Kampala and provides consular services.
The local currency is the Ugandan shilling (UGX). ATMs are available in cities, but cash is needed in rural areas. US dollars are widely accepted for safaris and park fees, especially in crisp, newer notes. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, but less so elsewhere. Bargaining is common in markets.
Healthcare is limited outside Kampala, and even the capital’s hospitals may lack equipment. Comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation cover is essential. A yellow fever vaccination is required for entry, and malaria is common, so prophylaxis and repellent are strongly advised. Drinking bottled or boiled water is safest. Trekking and safari activities can be physically demanding, so good preparation helps.
Get travel insurance
Single trip travel insurance Annual multi-trip travel insurance Pre-existing medical conditions Compare travel insuranceSubscribe to our newsletter
For discounts, competitions, news, tips & more.
