Uganda is considered a safe, secure and politically stable destination for travelers. There are currently no civil or external unrests that pose a significant threat to visitors. However, it is important to note that, as in any urban area, there are instances of crime, particularly in the slums of major cities. It is recommended to exercise caution while traveling to avoid any potential unwanted situations.
Most of the tourist destinations in Uganda, including those organized by Mukisa Safaris Uganda, are located in safe areas with no existing security concerns related to the safety of visitors.
However, it is important to observe general safety precautions during a safari visit in Uganda to minimize any potential risks. These may include being aware of your surroundings, taking care of personal belongings, and adhering to local laws and customs. By following these guidelines, visitors can fully enjoy their trip to Uganda while feeling secure and safe.
Precautions while in urban areas
- To ensure a safe and secure experience during your visit, it is recommended to avoid walking alone at night and instead use a taxi or cab service.
- When using an ATM, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and not accept assistance from anyone other than bank officials. Additionally, take care to conceal your PIN code while using the machine.
- To avoid drawing unnecessary attention, it is best to avoid reading guidebooks or consulting maps while on the street.
- When using public transportation, it is essential to keep your bags within sight at all times.
- When walking in an unfamiliar town or city, it is safer to do so in a group of two or more individuals.
- Be wary of individuals who approach you with sad stories and try to elicit an emotional response. These stories may not always be true and may be used to convince you to give money.
- When driving in busy towns, it is recommended to lock your car doors and windows and avoid leaving valuable items such as laptops or mobile phones in the car unless they are being attended to. If someone approaches your car, it is best to stay inside and communicate through a slightly opened window.
Precautions while tracking primates
Tracking primates is a safe and enjoyable activity, with no reported incidents of danger. However, it is important to observe a few safety precautions to ensure a safe and respectful experience for both yourself and the animals.
- It is essential to follow the instructions and guidelines provided by your guide.
- Individuals who are ill should not participate in tracking activities as these animals are susceptible to human diseases.
- It is important to maintain a low noise level, avoiding talking or laughing loudly, to minimize disturbance to the primates.
- The use of flash photography is not permitted.
- To protect against insect bites, it is recommended to cover your arms and use insect repellents that contain at least 20-30% DEET.
- It is important to maintain a safe distance of around 7 meters between yourself and the primates and to back off if they move closer to you.
- Avoid making quick movements and eating or drinking while close to gorillas or chimpanzees.
- Be mindful of your surroundings while walking in the forest.
- It is suggested to wear a hat, use sunscreen and drink plenty of water to protect from the sun and heat.
- Travelling with waterproof clothing and a waterproof bag for valuable items such as phones and cameras is recommendable.
- Avoid direct eye contact with the primates and remember that, though they are peaceful, they are still wild animals.
- Stay close to your guide and within the group at all times to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Precautions during game viewing
In Uganda, wildlife viewing is a safe activity and game park rangers are in place to ensure visitors’ safety. However, to enhance your safety, it is important to observe the following precautions:
- During game drives, it is recommended to stay in your vehicle except at designated points or areas where it is allowed to get out.
- It is best to maintain a low noise level, avoiding talking or laughing loudly, to minimize disturbance to the wildlife.
- Be mindful of your surroundings while walking in the bush, always staying close to your guide and within a group, especially during walking safaris. It is recommended to walk in a single file.
- Running or jogging in wildlife areas is strictly prohibited. If you encounter a wild animal, do not run away but instead, slowly walk backwards while facing the animal or follow the instructions of your guide.
- It is important not to leave food in your tent while camping or in a tented camp as it may attract wildlife.
- It is recommended to seek advice from your guide on where to go for a short call.
- Avoid wearing brightly colored or flashy clothes, especially during walking safaris.
- Wearing a hat, using sunscreen and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water are also important measures to protect from the sun and heat.
