Get to Uganda: Uganda, located in East Africa is a top African destination for wildlife safaris, adventure, and cultural immersion. Getting to Uganda involves navigating through a range of transportation options tailored to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you prefer the convenience of air travel, the adventure of overland journeys, or the flexibility of private transport, Uganda offers various routes to reach its vibrant landscapes and cultural treasures.
From international flights landing at Entebbe International Airport to overland crossings from neighboring countries and well-connected domestic transport networks, travelers have a multitude of choices to explore this East African gem.
Understanding how to get to Uganda using the available routes and transportation modes is essential for every traveler planning a Uganda safari. It ensures a seamless and enjoyable journey to experience Uganda’s diverse wildlife, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. Here is a guide on how to get to Uganda;
How Do I Get to Uganda?
By Air
International Flights
Like anywhere across the globe, the most convenient way of getting to Uganda for any traveler is by air, and Uganda’s main entry for flights is Entebbe International Airport. Entebbe Airport (IATA: EBB, ICAO: HUEN), is Uganda’s principal international airport situated near the capital city of Kampala. The airport serves as a major hub for both passenger and cargo flights and operates daily flights to several countries including Europe and the Middle East. Airlines such as Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, Kenya Airways, Brussels Airlines, and Turkish Airlines offer direct or connecting flights to Entebbe from various cities across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.
There are no direct flights from regions such as the United States, Canada, Southern America, Central America, the Caribbean, Southern Asia, China, Japan, Eastern Asia, South-Eastern Asia, Central Asia, or Oceania. However, travelers can access Uganda through connecting flights from major cities worldwide, with regional hubs offering some of the most affordable options. Among these include routes with Kenya Airways via Nairobi, RwandAir via Kigali, Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa, and South African Airways via Johannesburg. Additionally, Uganda Airlines, the national carrier launched in August 2019 and has expanded its routes to include destinations in Somalia, South Africa, Congo, Burundi, and the broader East Africa region.
Domestic Flights
Within Uganda, domestic flights are available to connect major cities like Kampala, Entebbe, and Jinja, and regional airports near national parks such as Kasese and Mweya (for Queen Elizabeth National Park), Kihihi and Kisoro (for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park), Pakuba (for Murchison Falls National Park) and Apoka (for Kidepo Valley National Park). Charter flights can also be arranged on request. Several airlines offer domestic flights in Uganda with the most popular ones being AeroLink and BAR Aviation. The others include Kampala Executive Aviation, Eagle Air, and Air Service to name a few.
By Road (Overland travel) Through Neighboring Countries
Some travelers often use overland travel to get to Uganda, especially via border crossings through neighboring countries. Uganda shares borders with several countries, making road travel possible. Travelers can enter Uganda by road from Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Popular border crossings include Malaba (from Kenya), Busia (from Kenya), Mutukula (from Tanzania), Katuna (from Rwanda), and Nimule (from South Sudan). However, road conditions and border procedures may vary, so it’s essential to check visa requirements, border crossing times, and travel advisories before embarking on an overland safari to Uganda.
With road transport, travelers to Uganda can opt to either use public means or private transport, depending on one’s preferences and budget;
Public Transport
Buses: Traveling by bus is the most convenient public means of transport to get to Uganda by road and several long-distance bus services operate between major cities and towns within Uganda and from neighboring countries. Companies like Jaguar Executive Coaches, Kampala Coach, Modern Coast Express, and Akamba Bus Services offer routes to and from destinations like Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Kigali, and Juba.
Private Transport
Private transport involves hiring a car for your travel and renting a car is a convenient option for travelers wanting flexibility and independence to travel and explore Uganda’s diverse landscapes. There are a variety of international car rental companies such as Avis, Hertz, and Europcar, and local providers like Kofi Travel Safaris that offers a range of vehicles for car rental from sedans to 4x4s. Hiring a car often comes with an experienced driver, unless a traveler is opting for a self-drive. However, it is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Border Crossing Vehicle Requirements to Get to Uganda
Most rental companies have policies and requirements for renting a vehicle to cross Ugandan borders. Before crossing any borders to get to Uganda, it’s essential to check with the rental company as they often have policies that govern car rental. Typically, rental companies do not permit border crossings into South Sudan or the Democratic Republic of Congo. If you plan to cross into Kenya, Tanzania, or Rwanda, inform the rental company in advance and expect to pay an additional fee.
For travelers considering trips to Malawi, Zambia, or Zimbabwe, border crossings are possible, however, roadside assistance may not be available.
Upon crossing borders, rental companies will issue a COMESA card costing \$80 and valid for about three weeks to extend your car insurance coverage. It’s also advisable to have some Ugandan currency (UGX) and an international credit card for smaller expenses and payments.”
When planning to get to Uganda, consider factors such as visa requirements (obtainable online or at entry points for many nationalities), transportation options within the country, health precautions (such as yellow fever vaccination), and cultural etiquette. Consulting with travel agencies, checking official government websites, and staying updated with travel advisories can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to Uganda.
