The most asked question by travelers to Uganda is “Is Uganda Safe? the answer is Yes, Uganda is safe to visit not just for safaris but also for business trips. Over 4 decades of prevailing peace and stability have been enjoyed in Uganda –the Pearl of Africa. And with no doubt, Uganda is truly the safest and most secure destination worth visiting for several outdoor activities including gorilla trekking, Big 5 game safaris, and chimpanzee treks.
Visitor safety starts right from the moment you step foot into the soil of Uganda –this can be seen at the airport or border crossing. Everyone is guaranteed safe and secure road trips regardless of the location. But like any destination, there are areas of concern and self-safety precautions that must be taken and observed first.
The people
Uganda is known for its friendliest and warm welcoming people. Right at the airport, you get a remarkable treat as locals welcome you with endless smiles. Ugandans are interactive and willing to show you even directions to the place you intend to go to.
Road safety
Ugandan roads have generally improved compared to the previous years. With the current improvement in the road infrastructure, connectivity to the remotest destinations like game parks has been eased. But if you intend to take self drive Uganda, attention should be paid to the road traffic rules/regulations or measures put in place.
If you are not familiar with the road traffic rules, then consider hiring a driver and car services from your local expert. The driver guide/safari guides on the ground have vast knowledge of the routes and are familiar with the road traffic regulations. Visitors who take up professional driver services in Uganda are guaranteed a safe and secure road trip.
Safety on self-drive
The fact that it is your first time traveling in Uganda or even if it is not and you are on a self-drive tour, maximum care should be taken to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable road trip. While you are behind the wheel, always be cautious of other road users including drunk drivers, pedestrians, and also cattle, etc.
Avoid as much as you can reckless driving. Often, reckless driving has resulted in serious fatalities. If you are not familiar with the routes to the destination, consider renting a car with a driver in Uganda at the same time.
By observing the above road safety measures, you can be guaranteed of a safe and secure road trip as you explore the pearl of Africa.
Hiring a car and driver/guide
Hiring a car and driver is a good thing for anyone with plans to explore Uganda, the Pearl of Africa. The driver guide or driver is usually the closest contact person while you are on a tour in Uganda or any destination. For everything that happens in the field, the driver guide or driver takes responsibility. Most importantly, to ensure that you are safe and secure throughout the entire road trip.
Safety in the National Parks
Visitor safety in the game parks is guaranteed thanks to the available and active team from the park rangers. A good number of park rangers have been trained by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to ensure that visitors’ safety is guaranteed.
The park rangers have vast knowledge about the park and the fact that they have moved through it. They do regular monitoring aiming at ensuring the safety of wildlife and that of visitors.
While you navigate in the park, you must also take note of the safety precautions in place. The parks in Uganda all have guidelines or rules and regulations that all visitors must observe. These include maintaining the driving speed limit as stipulated in the signposts. Do not drive as if you are in a rush. Reckless driving in the parks can put a huge risk of killing wildlife. When you knock any animal, the penalty can be huge and may prompt an arrest.
On gorilla trekking tour or chimp tracking, you will be briefed about the rules and regulations to be followed. This can be done as early as possible and essentially, maintaining a distance of 8 to 10 meters from gorillas.
Protect your valuables
At all times, ensure that your valuables are safe. Avoid displaying your items, especially luxury jewelries. You can consider keeping your valuables back in the room if you want to get out of the hotel facility.
Keep the car doors closed
As you walk out of the vehicle, ensure that the doors are all kept safe by closing them. Do not leave the door of the vehicle open.
Get the latest security and safety updates/alerts
Safety and security can change at any time of the year. And the best you can do is to ensure that you keep in touch with the tour operator on the ground.
Have your luggage protected or kept in a safe place
Luggage is among the targets of most robbers and the best to do is to ensure that you have your property kept safe.
At ATM
When withdrawing money, ensure that you exercise ultimate safety measures. Do not allow someone to be next to you when withdrawing the money.
Petty crimes
Petty crimes are common in urban areas and you should always be careful. These can be simple robberies, pickpocketing, and others.
Stay healthy
Avoid as much as you can eating street foods and drinking tap water. Get the best restaurant or hotel to have lunch or any meal and you can purchase a bottle of water.
Is Uganda safe for visitors?
Uganda is safe for all visitors whether you plan to travel for wildlife safaris, gorilla safaris, cultural tours or business trips. But what is important is to exercise a high degree of caution, especially in the extreme border areas like South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Can LGBTQI visitors also travel to Uganda?
Uganda welcomes all categories of visitors and even if you are an LGBTQI member, still you can make it to your destination safely. What is essential is that you don’t display your acts that violate the law.
When you decide to travel to Uganda, here are some useful safety tips;
- Try as much as you can to keep a low profile.
- Remain alert and avoid huge public gatherings.
- Don’t display signs of wealth like expensive jewelry/watches.
- Remain with a group of friends while in the public.
- Don’t physically resist robber attempt- call the nearby police/security.
- Don’t open your door for people at your hotel or residence except if you know them.
- Avoid leaving food or drinks unattended in public, especially in local clubs.
- Provide a copy of itinerary to your family member/friend.
- Review the country security report.
- Deal with a recognized tour operator in Uganda.
- Choose a safe accommodation for your overnight stay.
- Do not give lifts in your Car Renta Uganda when on your self-drive road trip, you never know who you are taking.
By being aware of these factors and taking necessary precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Uganda.
