FAQs

We require reservations in advance in order to organize your trip properly according to your needs.

Worthwhile Africa Safaris tours are tailor-made; we choose the hotels and room types for your trip and your exact tour itineraries and activities according to your wishes and preferences; therefore we can set a final price only after communication with you. Hotel prices also vary according to the season and transportation prices can change with the fuel price and local taxes. The price of your tours and hotels also depends on the number of participants, as there are discounted rates for groups for transports and in some hotels. Furthermore, in the prices listed on the website, domestic flights are still not included, because this price varies according to the flight day, time and season.

Some banks accept ATM cards or Visa credit cards for money withdrawal in Uganda. While you can withdraw a limited amount of cash per day from ATM machines in Towns, there are very few opportunities to withdraw cash once you are on safari in undeveloped towns.

Travelers’ cheques are generally no longer accepted in Uganda. However some major Forex Bureau may take Travelers’ cheques with additional charges.

A handful of places in Uganda accept MasterCard. In addition to cash, we suggest you bring a Visa debit card.

Once you have confirmed the final itinerary with us, you will be asked to pay a deposit of 15%. Gorilla permits must be paid for in full at the time of booking. Note that availability of accommodation and permits is not guaranteed until officially confirmed by Worthwhile Africa Safaris. Accommodation, permit and activity reservations will be made as soon as payment has been received on our account. For your convenience, the balance payment of 85% should be settled 30days before the start of your safari. We accept payment by cash and wire bank transfer in either dollars or Uganda shillings to our bank account in Uganda. Please note that all bank charges are at the expense of the client.

We now also accept payments by VISA, Credit and Debit Card.

How much to tip in Uganda depends entirely on your level of satisfaction of course, but even a small tip to show your gratitude will be highly appreciated.

On the majority of domestic and chartered flights within Uganda, each passenger is entitled to check in 20kg free of charge carry-on luggage per person. Do not pack high value, fragile or electronic items (computers, phones, cameras, camcorders, etc.) in your carry-on luggage, as those must be carried in hand luggage. Passengers are responsible for excess baggage fees which are subject to 2% of the published fare that will be charged for every kilo of baggage excess. Any further piece of baggage is accepted and subject to additional charges and available space inside the aircraft, otherwise it will be sent on the next flight.

We recommend you to be at the airport 3 hours before an international flight, and at least 1 hour before domestic flights. We will make sure to pick you up from your hotel on time.

If you book a full package or a domestic flight with us, airport transfers are always included. Make sure to send us your international arrival and departure information in advance! You can also book just an airport transfer.

Worthwhile Africa Safaris provide open roofed 4WD (four wheel drive) safari vehicles for all our tours. Our comfortable Jeep seats two to six people. Vehicles all have a pop-up roof for game viewing. We also own 4WD Toyota Minivans which can take a maximum of 9 people. To ensure that everybody has a window seat to enjoy the best views of Uganda, we usually limit the number of people to 7 in these 4WD safari vans. Limiting the number of people per vehicle also means plenty of legroom and luggage storage. The challenging condition of the roads means that safari vehicles are well serviced after every trip by WAMUCO MOTORS LTD one of the best garages in Uganda.

Yes! It is possible. Booking with a Foreign Travel Agent or Tour Operator gives many guests a peace of Mind. While we do our very best to cater for each of our guests’ request and preferences we also work with The best Tour operators and Travel Agents Around the World providing Authentic, personalized Services.

Worthwhile Africa Safaris tours usually include the transfer from and to the airport and all ground transportation throughout your trip. However, if you wish to extend your stay and explore Uganda on your own before or after your tour, we can assist you in renting a car with the appropriate safety and insurance. Uganda’s roads are generally good condition; only in remote jungle areas they might be a bit bumpy. Driving is on the right side, an international driving license is required.

Single travelers are very welcome! However, to minimize your costs we would suggest joining a group. Although we can try and arrange this for you, we cannot guarantee we can find a group whose interests, budget and preferred route correspond to yours, especially during low season. If you would like to stay in a single room please notify us well in advance and we will try to meet your request. Please bear in mind that single rooms are not common and it is more likely that you will be offered single occupancy of a double room. A single room supplement will apply.

We offer tailor-made safaris for any number of participants. We offer fixed departure Tours with a minimum of 4 Pax. The larger the group, the more attractive the price will be.

Safari accommodations in Uganda fall into three categories: budget, mid-range or luxury. Budget accommodation may be simple and basic rooms, bandas or tents, with double/twin beds and mosquito nets when necessary. Some lodges use solar power since some areas do not have electricity and are located in the game parks with eco-friendly toilets. 3-star, 4-star and 5-star accommodation offer comfortable rooms or luxury furnished safari tents with a private bathroom. Flush toilets and hot or cold running water are available. Mosquito nets will be provided where necessary. The majority of safari lodges and hotels are small-scale, offering a unique location, ambiance and usually have a maximum of eight rooms.

As Uganda is a tropical country situated close to the equator, bringing a sun block is definitely recommended, as well as a mosquito repellent. Concerning clothing style, lightweight long pants and loose fitting shirts are usually the best option. Bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes and a small backpack for day excursions, a sun hat and a foldaway umbrella or light raincoat during the wet season. Depending on the activities you are planning, hiking boots or running shoes, bathing suits and sports clothing might be useful. In the highlands it can get quite chilly (as well as on airplanes, buses, restaurants and shopping malls because of AC), so a sweater and a pair of warm pants are always a good idea to bring along. Do not worry if you forget something: there are multiple shopping options and fully equipped pharmacies in Uganda where you can find just about everything you need, from cosmetics to medication and clothing.

Uganda uses Uganda Shillings; all types of money can be accepted as there are a number of banks and forex bureaus to exchange the money. Major credit cards are widely accepted, and ATM’s can found at almost every corner of towns and cities, although not many banks accept traveler’s cheques or foreign debit cards. As a safety precaution, it is not advisable to carry very large amounts of cash; you can also pay with credit card in most stores and restaurants. Keep in mind that showing your ID or a passport copy is required when paying by credit card and banking hours is generally Mon- Fri 0830- 1600, Sat 0900-1200. Forex bureau are open until 1700 and able to do electronic transfers to and from overseas.

Depending on your type of SIM card and the contract you have. However, we recommend you to check details and prices with your phone provider in advance. There is also the possibility of purchasing a local SIM card and conduct a contract with unlimited internet on your phone. Those SIM cards can easily be purchased in most local supermarkets and stores, just ask the salesperson or your Worthwhile Africa Safaris guide for assistance.

Yes, practical goods such as batteries, toothpaste and soap can be easily found across Uganda, with supermarkets in many towns, although travelers are advised to bring goods which they may need Such as medications, from home. Also souvenirs and other gifts can be found everywhere In Uganda.

The major towns in Uganda all have a relatively lively nightlife scene such as Wednesday’s ladies night, where women entry is free, the Monday night at white la Bonita, The cultural shows at Ndere center, traditional music at National theatre Kampala etc.

Uganda water is safe to swim and free from bilharzia, however we recommend you to have a specialist and always put on life jackets when on water transport.

You do not need to speak local languages; however, locals are happy if you know a few words. Hotel staff is usually bilingual and your Worthwhile Africa Safaris contact and guide will definitely speak English. However, to communicate with locals, negotiate prices and get to know Uganda’s culture, some local language skills can be useful, but not necessary.

Visitors entering Uganda need a visa and to possess an international passport, which is valid for at least six months at the time of entry. Please check in advance with the Ugandan Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

Officially, Uganda’s dry seasons are from December/January through to mid-March and from June through to mid-September. These dry months are the most popular with tourists, with July, August, Christmas and New Year being the peak seasons. However, Uganda has an equatorial climate, with daily temperatures varying between 20°c and 27°c and a minimum average temperature of 18°c, though the temperatures can sometimes dip to 12°c. The highest temperatures are usually in the north of the country while the lowest occur on the peaks of Mount Rwenzori. Most parts of Uganda receive an average annual rainfall of between 1,000mm and 2,000mm, with the North having some areas with the average annual rainfall as low as 100mm.

Nonetheless you can trust that sunshine follows after rain!

If you are interested in Chimp trekking in Uganda you are required to buy a chimp permit. These permits cost differently according to where the trekking is to be done. Kibale National Park is most popular for chimp trekking and a permit costs $200, in Kyambura located in Queen Elizabeth National Park a chimp permit will cost $50 and in Kaniyo $60. Chimp trekking can be done in the morning or afternoon. Chimp Permits quotes are usually included in our Tour Quotes.

The minimum age for Chimp trekking is 12years. Some National parks like Kibale National Park have children activities for children below the age of 12 years to keep them busy as their parents go for chimp trekking. A team of well trained and experienced ranger guides teach them about the ecosystem and its inhabitants through interesting walks, games and creative activities.

If you are interested in a mountain gorilla safari in Uganda or Rwanda you are required to buy a gorilla permit at $700 in Uganda and $1500 in Rwanda well in advance of your trip. As only eight people are allowed to visit each gorilla group per day, the demand is high. Worthwhile Africa Safaris is happy to book your gorilla trekking permits and organize your gorilla safari. To buy your gorilla permit, you will need to provide us with your full names, nationality, and passport number also a preferred date of trekking with gorilla permit fee.

The minimum age for visiting the gorillas is 15 years. A certain level of fitness is required for the gorilla tracking, and you may not be allowed gorilla trekking if you fall sick.

Before you depart for gorilla trekking, the national parks administration office will call for an early morning meeting. Since more than 8 visitors would disturb the gorillas, the participants will be divided into groups. Besides you receive important introductions and rules like:

• A maximum number of 8 visitors may visit a group of habituated gorillas in a day, to minimize behavioral disturbances to the gorilla and the risk of their exposure to human bone diseases.
• Do not leave rubbish in the park. Whatever you bring into the forest should be carried back with you.
• Take pictures WITHOUT flash (choose appropriate photo equipment, as it is very dark in the forest)
• Move quietly and avoid noises as well as sudden movements.
• Stay with the group and sit or kneel up.
• Try to keep a minimum distance of 7 meters to the animals.
• While viewing gorillas, smoking or feeding is not permitted.
• Please do not respond on touches of gorillas but move slowly backwards.
• In case of any problems with the Silverback (attacks) strictly follow the ranger’s instructions.

These are some of the provisions needed for gorilla trekking:

• Passport (for registration before trekking)
• Trekking boots.
• Warm jacket for cool early morning.
• Rain coat and – trouser.
• Thin gloves.
• Strong sun protection.
• Mosquito repellent.
• 2 Liter of water.
• Tip for ranger.
• Porter Fee if necessary (about 15 US $).

Contact us on our 24/7 emergency number and we will assist you immediately: +256779315247. We partnered with On Vacation Doctor, LLC is the leading company in the world that provides resources for the traveling public up to and including: English speaking doctors, the local emergency numbers such as police, fire, ambulance, the USA Embassy or Consulate emergency number as well as the local “911” three digit emergency number.  

Uganda in general has excellent and reasonably-priced health care. Private Hospitals and National Hospitals, also offer very good health care options. In other cities in Uganda, hospitals have the latest equipments, doctors are well trained and professional (and usually speak English). We highly recommend all travelers to have international medical coverage, if necessary, purchase sufficient travel insurance before your departure from your home country.

Uganda has good water quality and can be consumed from the tap. Outside the city, the water quality is generally good as well; however, travelers are recommended to drink bottled water to avoid any possible illness.

Uganda cuisine draws on English, Arab and Asian-especially Indian – influence and uses local produce including plantains, sweet potatoes, corn, beans and cassava

It’s easy to eat cheaply almost anywhere in the country. International restaurants can be found in larger towns, with Indian, Chinese and Italian being the most popular.

Traditional foods include Matooke, Kalo, posho,, cassava, yam, irish, sweet potato served with a stew of ground nuts (peanuts), beans, chicken or meat such as beef, goat or mutton. Game can be found on menus in some restaurants and at Safari lodges. Fish includes the tiger fish, mputa and tilapia are popular.

Vegetarians may struggle outside of major towns, but Uganda’s Indian and Chinese restaurants generally offer a selection of vegetarian dishes.

Chapatti: Indian-style flat bread fried in oil.

Grasshoppers: The crunchy, deep fried insects are popular street food.

Luwombo: stew made from meat, vegetables or fish steamed in banana leaves.

Matoke: A green banana often steamed in its own leaves and mashed.

Millet bread: A mixture of millet and cassava flour, eaten with peanut or meat sauce.

Posho: Made from white corn flour, this starchy staple is similar to polenta.

Rolex: An omelette with onion and veg rolled up in a chapatti.

Simsim: Roasted sesame past mixed into a dish of beans or greens and served as a side.

Kikomando: A chapatti cut into pieces and served with fried beans.

Mandazi: A doughnut often served with coffee.

Tonto: Fermented beer made from millet or banana.

Waragi: A local gin.

Eating local food provides authentic insights in the local cuisine and directly supports the local population by buying local. However, we recommend using common sense and taking one’s dietary restrictions into consideration, as your body may not be used to local ingredients.

We do recommend that you get a Yellow Fever Vaccination before coming to Uganda for purposes of safety, this was as a result of an outbreak of Yellow Fever in some rural area of Uganda a years ago, despite the fact that Uganda is free of Yellow Fever, it is mandatory that you present a Yellow Fever Vaccination card upon arrival at the Airport.

You are unlikely to fall sick while you are in Uganda but do take all recommended preventive measures. If you take any regular medication, please bring it with you. Take your Malaria medication as directed – before, during and possibly after – your visit to Uganda (depending on the Malaria prophylactic you take). Although HIV/AIDS infection rates are lower than many countries in Africa, the prevalence of HIV/AIDS infection is certainly higher than in most Western countries. Therefore play safe. Please take your sexual health seriously.

Uganda is a very safe country to visit. Although Uganda has lived through a turbulent history, the country is safe, stable and welcoming. Ugandans’ hospitable nature is legendary! You will be warmly welcomed wherever you go by the friendly smiles from the country’s residents. The most popular National Parks are situated in the south (west) of Uganda and are safe to visit. The border area with Rwanda and DRC remains stable and all National Parks and wildlife reserves are well protected by the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s rangers. Tourism is hugely important for Uganda’s economy and a Tourism Police force has been created to protect visitors. Your safety is Worthwhile Africa Safaris’ absolute priority and you can be rest assured that we will always give you the best Uganda travel advice as well as keep you updated should you have security concerns.

Kampala is one of the safest capital cities in (East) Africa – although, as anywhere, petty thieves may try and take advantage of people who leave phones and valuables unattended. Your driver/guide will give you all the information you need to make sure your trip is safe. Feel free to ask questions!

Worthwhile Africa Safaris partners in community development projects with local organizations such as ARKCCO, supporting children and indigenous communities as well as rural development programs. We work with local suppliers and accommodations whenever possible, the majority of Worthwhile Africa Safaris drivers and guides are Ugandans.

Worthwhile Africa Safaris supports a variety of community projects. We also offer volunteer vacations upon request. If you are planning to make a donation, we can put you in contact with a suitable program.

When you buy souvenirs, try to buy them directly from the producers, not at souvenir stores at the airport or in shopping centers. Eat at local restaurants and stay in locally-owned accommodations to make sure your money benefits local communities, and not international or foreign corporations.

The major thing you can do is to leave no trash behind. Bring a re-usable water bottle and lunch box to reduce the amount of garbage you produce. Always follow your guide’s instructions, do not leave designated trails, feed or touch wild animals or pick flowers. Leave the place you visited the way you found it. At the hotel, try to reduce your water and energy consumption, keep your showers short, and turn off electrical appliances when you do not use them. Try not using air conditioning on full power all the time.

If not mentioned otherwise, all tours are private, with your just booking party participating and no one else.

Worthwhile Africa Safaris offers a range of tours specifically for families. In general, many of our tours are suitable for children; many of hotels offer babysitter services, kids meals or cots upon request. If you are planning to travel with small children, ask us for specific family recommendations.

You definitely can. Worthwhile Africa Safaris tours are tailor-made for the different needs of different travelers. Let us know how long you want to travel, what you want to do and where you would like to stay; we will assist you in developing a custom itinerary. You can also book additional hotel nights or opt for one of our various tour extension programs.

Worthwhile Africa Safaris programs normally include breakfast, if not stated differently in our itinerary details. Lunch and dinner are only included as stated in our individual tour programs. Our full day tours usually include lunch, and breakfast is included in most hotel bookings. Some hotels, especially on the islands or in rural areas, offer all-inclusive concepts. Let us know about your preferences and check the description of our tour itineraries.

Worthwhile Africa Safaris generally works with hotels following international standards. The exact type and classification of the hotels we use for your trip depends on your preferences and budget and will be organized upon your consent. In some remote regions of Uganda, hotels in local communities, accommodations can be very simple. However, we always share and discuss details and conditions of lodging with you in advance and book your hotels only upon your consent.

In general, most of the hotels we use throughout Uganda have WiFi which is included in the hotel rate already. Only in some special cases in remote areas, the hotels do not have access to WiFi. However, we always communicate those special conditions with you in advance and book hotels only upon your consent.

Generally, smoking is not allowed in public buildings in Uganda including restaurants and bars. Although most of the hotels have a smoking zone where smoking is allowed                                    

If the weather is unsafe for any reason and if there are thunderstorms, the trip will be changed or postponed. We recommend you be flexible, as weather can never be guaranteed or exactly predicted, especially in tropical countries like Uganda.