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Plan Your Uganda Holiday: Best of Uganda

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Uganda travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

Permit Acquisition Process

According to forum posts, obtaining a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda requires going through a tour operator that is licensed by the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB). Individual applications for permits are not accepted; only UTB-licensed tour companies can make these purchases.

Role of Tour Operators

Travelers have noted that tour operators handle the complete booking process, including the selection of trekking dates and coordination with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). This simplifies the process for tourists, as the operators link the permit acquisition with other travel arrangements and safari dates.

Updated Regulations

Recent updates from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, as discussed by forum users, mandate that all gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits must be purchased through licensed tour operators and are no longer sold directly to individuals or at park offices. This change aims to prevent fraud and ensure a safe and organized experience for visitors.

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Application Process

According to forum posts, travelers must apply for a Uganda e-visa online before arrival. The official website for this is https://visas.immigration.go.ug. The process requires uploading documents such as photos, which must be under 250 KB each.

Visa Types and Validity

Some travelers mentioned that Uganda offers a tourist visa valid for up to 90 days. There is also a multi-entry visa option, which requires additional documents like a police clearance from Interpol or the applicant's home country.

Visa on Arrival

Travelers have called out that as of recent updates, Uganda no longer offers a visa on arrival for most nationalities. It is mandatory to have an e-visa or a visa from a Ugandan mission abroad before traveling, as airlines may require proof of this visa before allowing passengers to board.

Visa Exemptions

According to posts, some nationalities, such as Irish citizens, are exempt from needing a visa to enter Uganda. However, it's advisable to verify this with Ugandan immigration authorities or the official immigration website.

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Popular Activities

According to forum posts, popular activities in Kampala include cultural performances at the Ndere Cultural Centre, which offers a musical and dance experience showcasing Ugandan cultures. Additionally, travelers have suggested exploring local markets and visiting historical sites such as the Uganda Martyrs Museum and Buganda Kingdom palaces.

Sights and Museums

Some travelers recommended visiting the Uganda Museum for its diverse exhibits, offering insights into the country's history and culture. Moreover, the city is known for its vibrant food and drink scene, providing a diverse culinary experience.

Outdoor and Nature Activities

For those interested in outdoor activities, users have mentioned city tours, which can include urban exploration and historical tours. The nearby Lake Mburo National Park was also highlighted as a great spot for nature lovers, offering safari walks, biking, and horseback safaris.

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Recommended Tour Operators

According to forum posts, several tour operators in Uganda have been recommended by travelers. Itinerantsafaris, based in Kabale, is highly praised for its personalized and adept services, especially highlighting the owner Jasper Agaba's expertise. Uganda Adventure Safaris is another recommended choice, noted for its responsiveness and professionalism in organizing group tours.

Additional Recommendations

Other tour operators like Red Chilli Murchison Falls, Across Equator Lines, and Go Gorilla Trekking are mentioned for their specialized services. Lifetime Experience Safaris is also favored for comprehensive and enjoyable tour experiences across Uganda.

Guide and Licensing Information

Travelers have stressed the importance of choosing licensed and insured operators for safety and reliability. The Uganda Tourism Board's website is a recommended resource for verifying the legitimacy of tour companies.

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Taxi Services and Costs

According to forum posts, taxis are readily available at Entebbe Airport with a desk outside the arrival area. The cost for a taxi ride from the airport to Kampala is typically between $40-50 USD per person, with potential room for negotiation depending on demand. Some travelers mentioned prices around $20 for shorter trips within Entebbe.

Booking and Taxi Companies

Travelers have suggested contacting specific taxi operators for potentially better rates. For instance, Native Africa Tours and Bigodi Africa Expeditions were recommended for their services and competitive pricing. These companies can be contacted directly to arrange airport transfers.

Alternative Transfer Options

For those looking for an economical option, some posts recommended staying in hotels in Entebbe that offer complimentary airport pickups, thereby avoiding the need for a paid taxi service. Additionally, for the return journey to the airport, using services like Uber was suggested, which might offer different pricing from standard taxis.

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Currency Exchange in Uganda

According to forum posts, exchanging currency for Ugandan shillings is straightforward upon arrival in Uganda. Several travelers have recommended using exchange bureaus at the airport or in major towns like Entebbe and Kampala. It's noted that US dollars are preferred, and newer bills fetch better rates.

Currency Acceptance

Some travelers said that while US dollars are widely accepted and can be easily exchanged, other currencies like the Euro or Australian dollars might be less convenient but still possible to exchange at major locations such as Victoria Mall. For the best rates, exchanging money from USD to UGX is advisable, especially with newer and larger denominations.

ATM Withdrawals

For many users, withdrawing Ugandan shillings directly from ATMs throughout Uganda is a viable option. It's important to notify your bank prior to travel to avoid any issues. Additionally, credit cards are accepted in many urban centers and larger establishments, though carrying some cash in Ugandan shillings is recommended for smaller purchases and tips.

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Accommodation Options

According to forum posts, travelers looking for lodging in Murchison Falls National Park have several options. Paraa Safari Lodge and Pakuba Safari Lodge are recommended for their swimming pools and views overlooking the Nile. Murchison River Lodge is also favored for its setting along the river and offers a range of accommodation from mid-range to more basic options.

Transportation Insights

Some travelers mentioned that the journey from Kapchorwa (Sipi Falls) to Murchison NP is feasible in one day via the Sipi-Soroti-Lira route, taking about 5-6 hours. The road from Chobe Gate to Paraa within the park is the only route available, and sometimes elephants can block this path by pushing down trees.

Activity Recommendations

For many users, Murchison Falls National Park offers several activities including game drives, boat cruises to the base of the falls, and bird watching. The park is particularly noted for its chance to see the shoebill stork during a boat ride in the delta area.

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