Uganda Tourist Visa Requirements
- Visa payment fee: The tourist visa fee is non-refundable. A single entry visa costs $50 per person.
- Yellow fever vaccine certification: If you don’t have this certification, you can get the vaccine upon arrival.
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months and have enough blank pages. Include copies of the biodata printout.
- Passport-sized photos: Two recent passport-sized photos are required. The photos must clearly show your face for identification purposes.
How to Apply for a Uganda e-Visa
Applying for a tourist visa is straightforward and can be completed in about 10 minutes. It is recommended to fill it out yourself to ensure accuracy, but someone else can assist you if needed. Ensure all information provided is true and accurate to avoid legal issues.
Visit the official visa application webpage and follow these steps:
- Choosing the Visa Type
- Determine the type of visa or entry permit you need. For tourists, focus on the tourist visa.
- Uganda offers three visa categories:
- Single-entry: Valid for 3 months, suitable for first-time and one-time visitors.
- Multiple-entry: Valid for 6 months ($100) or 12 months ($150).
- East African Community (EAC) Visa: Allows visits to Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for $100.
- Select the type of permit, either a visa or another type if applicable. For tourism purposes, choose between an Ordinary/Tourist Visa and an East African Visa.
- After selecting, the cost and required documents for each visa type will be displayed. Ensure all indicated documents are checked and scanned.
- Proceed to the next step to provide your personal information.
Step 2: Your Info
In this section, you will provide your personal information, including your name, address, contact details, duration of stay, passport information, and other relevant details. This information ensures that you are legally permitted to enter Uganda.
You will need to fill out a form similar to the screenshot below. Ensure all information is truthful and accurate.
Step 3: Attaching Relevant Documents
Remember the required documents from Step 1? Now is the time to upload them to accompany your application.
For applicants under 18 years old, a written letter from biological or legal parents must be included, granting permission to travel alone.
Step 4: Submitting Your Application
Once you have completed the application process, submit your application. You will typically receive a response within 72 hours. Check the website to confirm your application’s approval status.
And that’s all you need to do.
East African Community (EAC) Visa
The East African Community Visa follows the same application steps as above. The EAC Visa allows you to travel through Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda with a single visa.
The EAC Visa costs $100 and can be obtained from any of these countries. Additional requirements include your travel itinerary and return ticket. By following the above steps, you can easily complete the application process.
Once approved, print out your e-visa to present with your passport at the airport upon arrival. Your printout should look like the example below.
Visa on Arrival
While the online application is convenient for planning, you can also obtain a visa on arrival at Entebbe International Airport or any other entry point into Uganda. If you are unable to process the visa before traveling, don’t worry.
Simply set aside the required visa payment fees, and your visa will be processed upon arrival. Your physical visa will look similar to the example below.
Visa Extension
Extending your visa in Uganda is straightforward. Simply visit the nearest Internal Affairs/Immigration office with your documents and current visa. A Ugandan tourist visa extension is free of charge. You will need the following items:
- A copy of your passport and tourist visa
- A copy of your departure flight
- A cover letter explaining the reason for the visa extension
- A visa extension application
- A letter from your host
- Your host’s Citizen ID
Most Visited Places in Uganda
Uganda, known as the “Pearl of Africa,” boasts a wealth of natural beauty and diverse attractions that draw visitors from around the world. From stunning national parks teeming with wildlife to serene lakes and vibrant cities, Uganda offers something for every traveler. Here are some of the most visited places in Uganda:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its population of endangered mountain gorillas. Trekking through the dense forest to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The park is also home to various other primates, birds, and butterflies, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest national park, is renowned for its breathtaking waterfall where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge and plunges into a pool below. Visitors can take boat cruises along the river to see the falls up close and spot diverse wildlife such as elephants, lions, hippos, and crocodiles. The park also offers opportunities for game drives and bird watching.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most popular wildlife reserves, known for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. The park is home to the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, as well as elephants, buffalo, and numerous bird species. Visitors can enjoy game drives, boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel, and guided nature walks to fully appreciate the park’s beauty.
Kibale National Park
Kibale National Park is a primate lover’s dream, hosting the highest concentration of primates in Africa, including chimpanzees. Chimpanzee tracking is a highlight, allowing visitors to observe these intelligent creatures up close. The park’s lush forest is also home to other primates, birds, and butterflies, making it a fantastic destination for eco-tourism.
Lake Bunyonyi
Lake Bunyonyi, often called “the place of many little birds,” is one of Uganda’s most picturesque locations. Surrounded by terraced hills and dotted with 29 islands, the lake offers a tranquil escape for visitors. Activities here include canoeing, swimming, bird watching, and hiking. The serene environment and stunning landscapes make Lake Bunyonyi a favorite spot for relaxation.
Jinja and the Source of the Nile
Jinja, located on the shores of Lake Victoria, is famous as the source of the Nile River. Adventure seekers flock to Jinja for white-water rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking, and boat cruises. The town’s vibrant atmosphere and colonial architecture add to its charm, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring Uganda.
Rwenzori Mountains National Park
The Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” offer some of the most challenging and rewarding trekking experiences in Africa. Rwenzori Mountains National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and diverse vegetation zones. Trekkers can embark on multi-day hikes to reach the summit or explore the park’s lower slopes, rich in flora and fauna.
Kampala
Kampala, Uganda’s capital city, is a vibrant metropolis that blends modernity with tradition. Visitors can explore cultural sites such as the Uganda Museum, the Kasubi Tombs, and the Namugongo Martyrs Shrine. The city also offers bustling markets, lively nightlife, and a variety of restaurants serving local and international cuisine.
Entebbe
Entebbe, located on the shores of Lake Victoria, is known for its lush botanical gardens and the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre. The Entebbe Botanical Gardens are a haven for bird watchers and plant enthusiasts, while the Wildlife Education Centre provides a chance to see rescued animals and learn about conservation efforts. Entebbe’s serene beaches also make it a perfect spot for relaxation.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, is another prime destination for gorilla trekking. In addition to mountain gorillas, the park is home to the endangered golden monkey. Visitors can also hike the volcanic peaks of Mount Gahinga, Mount Muhabura, and Mount Sabyinyo, which offer stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Uganda’s rich natural beauty and diverse attractions make it a captivating destination for travelers. Whether you’re seeking adventure, wildlife encounters, or cultural experiences, Uganda has something to offer everyone.
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Gorilla trekking in Uganda is an exhilarating and unforgettable adventure. This experience primarily takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, home to the majority of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
The trek begins early in the morning with a briefing from park rangers, who provide essential information on the gorillas and trekking guidelines. Groups are then formed, each accompanied by experienced guides and trackers. The journey through dense, mist-covered forests can vary in length, ranging from a few hours to a full day, depending on the location of the gorillas.
As trekkers navigate the challenging terrain, they encounter the stunning biodiversity of the forest, including other primates, birds, and unique plant species. The anticipation builds until, finally, the moment arrives: the group spots a family of gorillas.
Observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is awe-inspiring. Visitors typically spend an hour with the gorillas, watching them interact, play, and forage. The close proximity and the opportunity to witness their behavior up close create a profound connection and appreciation for these endangered animals.
How much is a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda?
The cost of a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda varies depending on several factors, including the type of safari package, accommodation, and additional activities. However, some standard costs and fees apply.
The primary cost is the gorilla trekking permit, which is $800 per person for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. This permit grants you the opportunity to spend one hour with a gorilla family in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
In addition to the permit, the overall safari cost includes accommodation, transportation, and guide fees. Budget packages can start around $1,000 per person, including basic lodgings and shared transportation. Mid-range packages range from $1,500 to $2,500, offering more comfortable accommodations and private transfers. Luxury packages can exceed $3,000, featuring high-end lodges, exclusive transportation, and personalized services.
Other expenses to consider are tips for guides and porters, which can enhance your trekking experience, as well as optional activities such as community visits or additional wildlife safaris.
