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Practical Information For Uganda

Ready to embark on the unforgettable Uganda Safari Tours? Here is some necessary practical information for Uganda to help you plan a hassle-free Uganda Destination Holiday.

Basic Information

Official Name: Republic of Uganda

Area: 236,580 sq km

Population: 45.9 million (approx.)

Capital: Kampala

Largest Cities, with Population
  • Kampala: 1,353,000
  • Gulu: 146,000
  • Lira: 119,000
  • Mbarara: 97,000
Ethnic make-up
  • Baganda 16.9%
  • Banyakole 9.5%
  • Basoga 8.4%
  • Bakiga 6.9%
  • Iteso 6.4%
  • Langi 6.1%
  • Acholi 4.7%
  • Bagisu 4.6%
  • Lugbara 4.2%
  • Bunyoro 2.7%
  • Other 29.6% (2002 census)
Religious Affiliations

The country’s motto is “For God and My Country”, the Constitution provides that Uganda is a secular country.

  • Catholic: 42%
  • Anglican: 36%
  • Muslim: 12%
  • Other: 10%
Languages

Official Language: English and Swahili

Business Language: English

Other Languages: Uganda is a multilingual country. Around forty indigenous languages are spoken in the country; the three main families are Bantu, Nilotic and Central Sudanic.

Uganda Climate

Uganda exhibits moderate temperature throughout the year. The average daily temperature of Kampala is around 18 to 25 [degrees] C. Uganda experiences two dry seasons (December to February, June to August); semi-arid in the northeast.

Communications
  • The country code for Uganda is +256.
  • Uganda uses Telephone, telex, fax, and airmail services to connect all parts of the world. International direct dialing is available in all major centers.
  • Public call boxes in post offices and main towns operate on a card system.
  • There are several cellular companies operating in Uganda and roaming works nearly in all major cities and towns.
  • Also, you’ll find ample internet cafes in all the major city centers.
Currency & Exchange Rates

Official Currency: Uganda Shilling

ISO Code: UGX

Currency can be exchanged everywhere in Uganda, but the best exchange rates are found in Kampala. Overall, it’s good to have some US dollars with you at all times.

 Exchange Rate
  • Euro – Dollar 1.10
  • Euro – Ugandan Shilling  4115
  • US Dollar – Euro 0.91
  • US Dollar – Ugandan Shilling 3718
  • Pound Sterling – Dollar 1.31
  • Pound Sterling – Ugandan Shilling 4892
Uganda Entry Requirements
  • A valid passport.
  • Visa to enter the country
  • Three-month single-entry tourist visas are available in all Ugandan embassies (price may be subject to nationality).
Health Certification
  • Visitors arriving from areas affected with yellow fever and cholera must produce certificates of inoculation.
  •  Malaria and bilharzia are endemic.
Vaccinations

A number of vaccinations are recommended before visiting Uganda (check with your doctor in advance).

Malaria

Malaria is endemic in tropical Africa and protection against it is necessary.

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is a serious problem throughout Africa.

Medical Insurance

Travelers to Uganda are recommended to obtain valid and up-to-date medical insurance prior to arrival.

Security

All in all, Uganda is a safe country to travel to. The Ugandans are warm-hearted and generous people. They are always eager to help visitors get the most out of their stay. Uganda is a multi-democratic and is a politically stable country.

For more information regarding Uganda Safaris or any other necessary details, visit Gazelle Safaris Africa today.