Uganda travel advice

Risk level

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

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Uganda travel advice

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

Safety and security

Border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The volatile security situation in the eastern part of neighbouring Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) could lead to possible incursions into western Uganda by armed rebel groups from the DRC.

Uganda and the DRC regularly conduct joint military operations against armed groups in North Kivu and Ituri provinces of the DRC, near Virunga National Park.

Ugandan military troops are present on both sides of the border. There is also a risk of banditry and inter-ethnic violence in this area.

Border with South Sudan

The border with South Sudan is porous, allowing criminal and armed groups to operate in the area. Inter-communal tensions and clashes are also frequent in this region.

Karamoja Province

Clashes between local communities occur, especially in districts north of Lake Kyoga. There is also a risk of banditry.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Uganda, including in Kampala.

Terrorist attacks have occurred in the past in:

• Kampala
• Kamwenge, Kasese, Kyankwanzi, and Buikwe districts
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• the border area with the DRC

Foreigners have been targeted and further attacks cannot be ruled out.

Targets could include:

• national parks
• schools, including universities
• public areas and tourist attractions, including:
• restaurants
• bars
• coffee shops
• shopping centres
• markets
• hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
• government buildings, including police stations
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• cultural venues

Be particularly vigilant during:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• public celebrations
• major political events, such as elections

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places and stay at hotels that have robust security measures.

National parks and wildlife reserves

There are several national parks in Uganda, including near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Local authorities have enhanced security measures in these areas, but tourists have been involved in security incidents in the past.

National parks and wildlife reserves are in remote areas with limited emergency services. Wild animals often venture within boundaries of camps.

If you decide to visit parks and reserves:

• only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators
• do not take any tours that cross into the Democratic Republic of the Congo
• follow the advice and warnings of local tour guides and rangers
• stay informed of recent developments in the security situation in the area before travelling as it can change quickly
• do not walk around at night
• never leave children unattended

Uganda’s National Parks and Reserves – Ugandan Wildlife Authority

Wildlife observation

Wild animals can be dangerous, particularly if you are on foot or at close range.

• Always maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife
• Only exit a vehicle when a professional guide or warden says it’s safe to do so
• Closely follow park regulations and rangers’ advice

Crime

There is a high level of crime throughout Uganda, particularly in urban and border areas.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and theft, including from hotel rooms, occurs frequently. Crime increases significantly after dark.

• Keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• Avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
• Do not visibly display electronics
• Avoid all unnecessary travel after dark
• Do not leave valuables or bags unattended
• Be wary of tourist excursions and only sign up with a reputable tour company
• Travel in groups if possible

Violent crime

Violent crime occurs frequently throughout the country and tourists have been targeted. Incidents include:

• armed robberies
• burglaries
• home invasions
• carjackings
• assaults, including sexual assault

During your stay:

• stay in accommodations with adequate security measures
• keep doors and windows locked at all times
• keep valuables out of sight and reach
• avoid isolated areas
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs
• do not resist an attack

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur, particularly during election periods. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Ugandan law criminalizes sexual acts between individuals of the same sex and prohibits the “promotion of homosexuality.” Penalties include:

• up to life imprisonment for sexual acts between individuals of the same sex
• up to 20 years’ imprisonment for the “promotion of homosexuality”
• the death penalty for those convicted of “aggravated homosexuality”

Discrimination based on identity and sexual orientation is widespread. Incidences of blackmail and extortion directed against 2SLGBTQI+ persons and their families are common. Attacks have increased since the Parliament passed an “anti-homosexuality” bill in 2023.

2SLGBTQI+ persons are routinely harassed by security forces, which sometimes carry out arbitrary arrests and searches based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Interventions include:

• detentions
• interrogations
• alleged physical abuse

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Uganda.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Forced marriage

Some Canadians have been forced into marriage against their will and without their consent in Uganda. Family and/or community members have used emotional pressure, threats, abduction, or even physical violence to coerce individuals to marry in Uganda. Sometimes, the affected individual doesn’t know in advance about the planned marriage, but once they arrive in the country, their passport and money may be taken to prevent them from returning to Canada.

Forced to travel and remain abroad

Some Canadians have reported being forced to travel or to remain in Uganda against their will. Once abroad, family members have confiscated the person’s passport and cellphone and withheld money to prevent them from returning to Canada. In some cases, family members have used deception or coercion to admit individuals and forcibly confine them in certain facilities claiming to offer medical or cultural "rehabilitation" services. These facilities may operate with little or no licensing or oversight, and incidents of abuse have been reported.

If you’re in Canada

If you’re in Canada and believe that you’re being forced to travel to Uganda to marry and/or to be left abroad against your will, you may want to consider the following safety measures:

• try to avoid or delay your travel
• share your concerns and travel details with a trusted person, such as a teacher, counsellor, friend or neighbour who can help you find support
• maintain control over your passport and other important documents
• contact your local police for immediate assistance

If you’re in Uganda

If you’re in Uganda and believe that you’re being forced to marry or are being kept abroad against your will and prevented from returning to Canada:

• contact the nearest office of the Government of Canada
• contact the 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Forced marriage

Spiked food, drinks and other items

Never leave your food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Avoid accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as these items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Roads

Road safety

There are major road safety issues in Uganda. Fatal accidents are common and often involve motorcyclists as well as pedestrians. Police and emergency services are limited or even unavailable in rural areas.

Road conditions

Road conditions vary throughout the country and at different times of the year. Driving conditions may be hazardous during the rainy seasons, from March to May and from September to November. A four-wheel-drive vehicle may be necessary to travel outside cities, off major highways and during the rainy season.

Roads are poorly maintained and can be dangerous due to:

• potholes
• stray animals
• lack of traffic signs
• pedestrians on the road
• insufficient lighting and vehicles not using their headlights
• poorly maintained vehicles

Driving habits

Drivers often disregard traffic laws and speeding is common. Pedestrians and other drivers’ rights of way are not respected. The Jinja-Kampala and Masaka-Kampala roads are particularly prone to traffic accidents. Drinking and driving is common, particularly at night.

If you choose to drive in Uganda:

• always drive defensively
• avoid driving after dark
• always keep doors and windows closed and locked
• never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk
• fill your gas tank before you travel
• during the rainy season, confirm with local authorities that the chosen route is passable

Checkpoints

Police checkpoints are common throughout the country, especially when travelling toward western Uganda.

• Be prepared to show your identification
• Follow the instructions of the police
• Remain calm and courteous

Public transportation

Buses

Avoid intercity buses, especially overnight long-distance buses, and minibuses, locally known as “matatus,” as they are often involved in fatal accidents.

Taxis and ride-sharing services

Taxi availability may be limited outside city centres.

• Avoid using motorcycle taxis, locally known as “boda-boda” or three-wheel taxis called “tuk-tuks,” as they are frequently involved in accidents
• Only use licensed taxis selected by a reputable hotel or restaurant, or one located at an official taxi stand
• Never share a taxi with strangers
• Make sure the driver doesn’t pick up other passengers on the way to your destination
• Ask the driver to start the meter or negotiate the fare in advance
• Have small bills ready for payment

Ride-sharing services are available.

• Use a trusted ride-sharing application
• Confirm the driver’s identity and licence plate before getting into the car
• Do not share your ride with another person
• Use a security feature to share your ride status with a contact

Ferries

Fatal ferry accidents have occurred due to poor maintenance, overcrowding, and a lack of safety measures and equipment.

If you decide to travel by ferry:

• only use a reputable company
• make sure appropriate safety equipment is available
• do not board a boat that is too crowded or in poor condition
• avoid water transportation during adverse weather conditions

Air travel

We don't make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

The authorities of a country or territory decide who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from local authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you're travelling with.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Uganda.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

You should also be aware that current systems used by some countries and travel companies may not recognize the “X” gender identifier. You may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when travelling.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports and other travel documents

Visas

You need to apply for an electronic visa before travelling to Uganda.

Tourist visa: required
Business visa: required
Work permit: required
Transit visa: required

You cannot perform any type of work, including volunteer work, with a tourist visa. If you plan to travel to Uganda for volunteer work, contact the High Commission of Uganda in Canada for information on the specific requirements.

Apply for an electronic visa – Uganda’s official application service

Land border crossings

Due to political tensions between Uganda and Rwanda, the land border crossings may close without notice. Verify their status before you travel.

Children and travel

Learn about travelling with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies, spread through direct contact with animals. Others, such as hantavirus infections and avian influenza, can also spread indirectly when people come into contact with areas contaminated by animal droppings or other animal waste.

Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, their droppings, or their body fluids, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick:

• avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats.
• stay away from places where animal waste can build up, such as caves
• avoid eating undercooked meat

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• practise safer sex methods
  • use barrier protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medical services and facilities

Medical services and facilities are limited and do not meet Canadian standards. It can be difficult to obtain adequate care from health professionals.

Public and private medical facilities usually require an initial cash deposit, a payment guarantee or confirmation that you have medical insurance. You may be refused discharge until you pay the entire bill.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Medications

Some prescription medications may not be available in Uganda.

If you take prescription medications, you’re responsible for determining their legality in Uganda.

• Bring enough medication for your stay
• Always keep your medication in the original container and carry a copy of your prescriptions
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage

Travelling with medication

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

• Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
• Never transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Smoking and electronic cigarette ban

Smoking is strictly prohibited in the following areas:

• public places
• workplaces
• public transport
• outdoor spaces within 50 m of any public building

The use of electronic cigarettes and shisha (water-pipe tobacco) is illegal. Violations of these laws can result in fines and detention.

Identification

Local authorities may request to see your identification at any time.

• Always carry a valid photo identification
• Keep a photocopy of your passport and visa in a safe place in case they’re lost or seized
• Keep a digital copy of your identification and travel documents

Photography

Photographing sensitive installations and security forces is prohibited. This includes:

• airports
• ports
• military sites
• dams, including Owen Falls Dam
• government buildings
• uniformed service people

Always ask permission before photographing individuals.

Drones

You must obtain a permit from the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority to import and operate a drone in Uganda.

Information on drone permits – Uganda Civil Aviation Authority

Camouflage clothing

It’s illegal to wear, buy, sell or distribute camouflage clothing in Uganda. Offenders can expect fines and detention.

Dress and behaviour

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively when travelling outside of urban areas
• respect religious and social traditions

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Uganda.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Uganda, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Uganda.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Uganda by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Uganda to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Driving

Traffic drives on the left.

To drive in Uganda, you must always carry:

• a valid driver’s licence in English or with a certified translation if your licence is in French
• vehicle registration documents
• proof of valid insurance
• a valid vehicle inspection certificate

An International Driving Permit is recommended.

You can drive using a valid Canadian driver’s licence for up to 90 days from the date of entry into Uganda.

In the event of an accident, Ugandan law requires drivers to stop and exchange information and provide assistance. However, if you feel threatened by a hostile crowd, remain in your vehicle and drive to the nearest police station to report the accident.

International Driving Permit

Traffic violations

Police are not permitted to accept cash on the spot without issuing an official receipt. If you disagree with the traffic ticket, ask for a copy of the written fine that can be paid later, or insist on going to the nearest police station.

Money

The currency of Uganda is the Ugandan shilling (UGX).

Credit cards are accepted only by major hotels, airlines and some car rental agencies. There are foreign exchange bureaus at most border crossings and in major cities.

Natural disasters and climate

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Uganda. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information.

Seismic activity

Uganda is located in an active seismic zone.

Even minor earthquakes can cause significant damage.

Rainy seasons

The rainy seasons usually extend from March to May and from September to November. This can vary from year to year due to climate change. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services, particularly in rural areas. Roads may become impassable due to mudslides and landslides. Infrastructure may be damaged.

• Monitor local media for the latest information, including on road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Large-scale emergencies outside Canada