Is there Wi-Fi or electricity in the lodges in Uganda? When planning a safari or adventure trip to Uganda, one of the common questions travelers ask is whether they’ll have access to Wi-Fi and electricity during their stay. Uganda is renowned for its stunning national parks, incredible wildlife, and warm hospitality, but it is also a country where modern conveniences can vary depending on where you are staying. Let’s explore what you can expect in terms of Wi-Fi and electricity at lodges across Uganda.

Electricity in Ugandan Lodges

1. Urban Areas and Major Towns

In cities like Kampala, Entebbe, and Jinja, lodges, hotels, and guesthouses generally have a reliable supply of electricity. Most accommodations here are connected to the national power grid managed by Umeme, Uganda’s main electricity distributor. Power cuts can happen occasionally, but many establishments have backup generators or solar systems to ensure continuous service.

Luxury lodges and hotels in urban centers typically offer 24-hour electricity, allowing you to charge your devices, use air conditioning, and enjoy other comforts just like you would at home.

2. Safari Lodges and Remote Locations

When you head out to Uganda’s national parks — like Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, or Kidepo Valley — the situation changes slightly. Many safari lodges are located in remote areas where connection to the national grid is not feasible. In these places:

• Solar Power: A large number of lodges rely primarily on solar energy. Solar power systems are common and efficient, providing electricity for lighting, charging devices, and sometimes even powering water heaters.

• Generators: Some lodges use generators, which may operate during specific hours, typically in the early morning and evening. It’s not unusual for electricity to be off between certain periods (e.g., from midnight to 5 AM), so guests are advised to charge their devices while the power is available.

• Energy-Saving Practices: In remote lodges, there is often an emphasis on eco-friendly practices. Guests may be encouraged to use electricity sparingly, with some lodges providing charging stations in communal areas rather than in individual rooms.

3. Voltage and Plugs

Uganda operates on a 240V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency. The power plugs and sockets are of type G (the same as the United Kingdom). It’s a good idea to bring a universal adapter and maybe even a small power bank, especially if you’ll be spending a lot of time in rural areas where charging opportunities can be limited.

Wi-Fi in Ugandan Lodges

1. Wi-Fi in Cities and Towns

In cities like Kampala, Entebbe, and even touristy towns like Fort Portal or Kisoro, most hotels and lodges offer complimentary Wi-Fi, especially in public areas like lobbies, restaurants, and lounges. Some high-end establishments provide strong Wi-Fi signals even in the guest rooms. The speeds are usually sufficient for emails, social media, and light browsing.

However, it’s important to note that internet speeds in Uganda might not be as fast or stable as what you are used to in Western countries, although improvements are being made every year.

2. Wi-Fi in Safari Lodges and Remote Areas

In more remote safari lodges, Wi-Fi availability varies:

• Luxury Lodges: Many upmarket lodges understand that guests appreciate staying connected and offer Wi-Fi in the main lounge or dining areas. Some top-tier lodges even provide Wi-Fi in rooms or private cottages, although the connection may be slower.

• Mid-range and Budget Lodges: At more modest lodges, Wi-Fi might be available only in the reception or communal areas, and in some cases, there may be no Wi-Fi at all. This is often due to the remoteness of the lodge and the logistical challenges of providing reliable internet access in wilderness areas.

• Wi-Fi via Mobile Networks: Some lodges offer Wi-Fi that is powered by mobile data routers. In this case, connection strength depends heavily on the mobile network coverage in that particular area.

3. Going Off-Grid

In certain cases — particularly deep inside Bwindi Forest or in Kidepo Valley — lodges intentionally promote a “digital detox” experience, where guests are encouraged to unplug and immerse themselves fully in nature without the distraction of the internet. It’s a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with the natural world, enjoy meaningful conversations, and focus on the beauty around you.

Tips for Staying Connected in Uganda

• Buy a Local SIM Card: Uganda has excellent mobile networks like MTN and Airtel, which offer affordable data bundles. Buying a local SIM card with mobile data is a great way to stay connected, especially if you’re traveling to remote areas where lodge Wi-Fi may not be available.

• Power Banks and Solar Chargers: Carry a portable power bank or solar charger to ensure your devices stay powered up during long days of travel or safaris.

• Manage Expectations: If you are heading to very remote locations, it’s wise to expect limited or no connectivity. Inform your friends and family beforehand, and download any important information you might need (like safari itineraries or maps) ahead of time.

Yes, there is Wi-Fi and electricity in many lodges in Uganda, especially in urban areas and at mid-range to luxury lodges. However, in remote safari destinations, electricity is often solar-powered and may be available only during certain hours, and Wi-Fi can be limited or intentionally absent to enhance the wilderness experience.

Part of the magic of traveling to Uganda is immersing yourself in its incredible natural beauty and vibrant culture. Embracing a few days with limited connectivity can turn your trip into an even more memorable adventure. After all, the best memories are made when we look up from our screens and fully experience the world around us.