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Where to Stay:
In Kampala, Uganda's capital, there are diverse classes of accommodation;
from the renowned top range establishments to the reasonably priced
outlets for the budget traveler. Across the entire country and in
the National Parks are hotels and resorts that offer quality service.
To meet the needs of the budget traveler a number of campsites are
also available in most of the tourist circuits.
Airport:
For those travelers who arrive in Uganda by air, they land at the
Entebbe International Airport, which is approximately 45 minutes
drive from the Capital Kampala. From the airport there are taxis
and other vehicles on hire to take you to the city. The airport
tax is incorporated in your tickets.
Airlines:
Uganda Airlines is the national carrier but others servicing Uganda
regularly include: Air Tanzania, British Airways, Egypt Air, Ethiopian
Airlines, Gulf Air, Inter Air, Kenya Airways Sabena and South Africa.
There are daily connections to and from Nairobi. There are also
several reputable domestic charter companies to choose from.
Banking:
Several International banks operate in Uganda including Barclays,
Standard Chartered and Stanbic. Many local banks and forex bureaus
also operate across the country. Generally the banking hours are
8:30 A.M. to 3:00 P.M., Monday to Friday, though some institutions
are open for longer hours and on Saturdays. There are no longer
restrictions on foreign exchange transactions and currency is easily
convertible. Use only Uganda shilling dated after 1990.
Climate:
Uganda enjoys ideal weather conditions ranging from the warmth of
the lowlands to the coolness of the highlands. Mean temperatures
are between 21° C and 31° C all the year round. Wet seasons
are March to May and October to November.
Clothing:
Light summer clothing supplemented by a sweater or jacket should
be sufficient all year round. Usually dressing is informal. Cotton
slacks and flat-heeled comfortable shoes are recommended on safari.
A hat for sun protection and a swimsuit would be ideal. Umbrellas
and windbreakers are recommended in the wet seasons. Request additional
details at the tome of booking.
Credit Cards:
AMEX, Visa and MasterCard are only accepted at a few choice establishments
in Kampala and some lodges.
Currency:
The Uganda shilling is the currency used. It is used in denominations
of 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 5000, 10,000 and 20,000 Uganda shilling
notes. The rates vary from time to time but are readily available
from banks and forex bureaus.
Drinking Water:
We recommend that you do not drink tap water. Most hotels and restaurants
provide previously boiled water. Mineral water is also available.
Foods:
Fresh tropical fruits and vegetables are plentiful throughout the
country. Wide ranges of dishes, both traditional and international
are served in the hotels and restaurants.
Health Requirements:
Certificates are required for vaccination against yellow fever.
Check current medical advice on typhoid, cholera and hepatitis.
Malarial risk is general and prophylactics should be taken. It is
advisable to start anti-malaria medications 10 days prior to arrival
and continue with the same until 14 days after leaving East Africa.
Language:
The official language is English though Kiswahili and Luganda are
commonly spoken throughout the country.
Photography:
Though some types of film are available in many of the lodges, it
is advisable to bring films and batteries with you or to purchase
them in Kampala. A pair of binoculars will prove extremely useful
for the keen game viewer. There is no charge for coming into the
country with photography cameras but there may be a charge for video
cameras in some places.
Security:
Precautions should be taken as in any major city. Unless safety
deposit boxes are available in your hotel or lodge, always carry
travel documents, traveler's Cheques, cash and other valuables with
you at all times. We recommend that you do not walk late in the
night but instead take a taxi.
Sports Facilities:
There are a variety of sports available in the Kampala and Entebbe
City centers - Squash, golf, tennis etc Fishing on Lake Victoria
or the Nile River and White water Rafting from Bujagali falls is
also popular. Arrangements can be made for these activities depending
on individual interests.
Transport:
The roads are generally in good condition. Four wheel drive vehicles
may be required for upcountry use, especially in the national parks
during the rainy seasons. Vehicles for hire are available only in
the major cities on both self-drive and chauffeur driven basis.
Please inquire for further details and tariffs.
Visas:
All PTA countries, EEC countries, Japan and USA are exempt from
Visas. Visas are generally available at all entry points including
Entebbe airport.
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