How to visit Uganda is a top question when we plan a visit to East African countries. Uganda is home to the tallest mountain range of Arica (Rwenzori Mountains). It shares its borders with Kenya, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Tanzania. Uganda is home to Africa’s largest lake Victoria. The origin of the Nile river is also from Lake Victoria. While Jinja is the point where the Nile River staters its journey. Along with Rwanda, it is the place to the last species of mountain Gorillas. Last but not the least, tourists can find and tick the Big 5 during a Ugandan Wildlife Safari. Kampala is the capital and main traveling hub in Uganda.
This is the security advice from my hostel in Kampala. A number of people have been targeted by Boda Bodas drivers snatching bags along Acacia Avenue recently. Although this has always been a low-level threat but has recently become much more frequent. The police seem hesitant and unable to solve the problem despite being asked repeatedly. So, we strongly recommend the following
This city is lovely and charming but there are some police-related concerns. So, beware and make your trip an awesome journey. Although, a large number of visitors are visiting this beautiful country on daily basis. So, you must be vigilant and careful while visiting the capital.
Other than the downtown of Kampala, the other regions of Uganda are less prone to these petty crimes.
Uganda has an extensive network of paved and unpaved roads. While you can find the options like matatus (minibusses, vans), Buses, motorcycles (Boda Bodas), Taxis, and bicycles. Whereas, in some areas, you can find railway transportation too.
Uganda has only one international airport that is at Entebbe. So, all the international tourists land at Entebbe and then come to the Capital city of Kampala.
Buses are the secondary way to reach Kampala. Many overland Buses can reach Kampala from Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania. For intercity buses, the main place to get the bus is Aquapark, Buganda Bus Park, and New Bus Park. I entered from the Kenyan side and there are few reputable bus companies that ply on this route. These include the Easy Coach, Mash Poa, and Modern Coast. Pioneer Bus is a new addition to the Kampala transportation System. Their routes are well marked and there is a fixed fare for all travelers. These buses are painted in Orange and Black colors.
I went to Jinja(Uganda) from Nairobi on Mash Poa Bus service for 3700KES. Right now, it is the only company that operates on this Kenya to Uganda Overland Bus route. Previously Easy coach also had operations on this route but from the previous year, they have suspended their operations. So, nowadays they are operating till Busia, the border town on Kenya/Uganda border.
You can find the minibusses from New Taxi Park or from Old Taxi Park. However, most of the services are for western and southern destinations. Within Kampala, you can find many blue and white minibusses. It has many routes within Kampala city. However, you have to know the exact fare before your ride as sometimes, they try to overcharge tourists.
Both a special hire taxi or Uber has an evolving trend in Kampala.
Within cities your best option is Boda-Bodas. It is the same Moto Taxis of Kenya. It is economical, convenient and can take you to every inside destination of cities. The normal fare is from 2000 to 4000USh which is about 1$.
Uganda is a good place for backpacking and you can get good budget options while your visit to different regions of the country. While you can get a bed starts from 15~20$. Alternatively, you can get a budget hotel room in the range of 20~30$ and midrange from 40~80$.
I have stayed at different properties throughout my stay in Visit Uganda. While booking, I always make a combination of cost, location, and review scores.
In Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, I stayed at Bushpig Backpackers. It was a neat and clean property at Acacia road. Many of Kampala’s city attractions were within walking distance of it.
I stayed in Jinja Basecamp which is located on Wilson Avenue. It is a budget option and the best value for your cost. It has a small pool and a welcoming staff team to give you good service.
I stayed at Elementis Entebbe which is located just beside Lake Victoria. It is a quiet place and good for a couple of days of relaxation.
Most of my bookings were from Booking.com or directly booked at the property. However, When you’re looking for a stay, do your research first. Finally, read the reviews to get a feel for the place and then book somewhere that suits you.
Uganda food consists overall of starchy staples like potatoes, beans, and cornmeal mixtures. Uganda has taken the influence from other cultures like Indian, Arabic, and other Asian countries to make a blend of its own cuisine.
Suggested daily budget –  For Backpacking a suggested budget is around 50$. As, it includes a bed in a dorm (15~20$), a portion of basic food(10~15$), public transport within the city(5$), and a couple of sightseeing (10~20$/day).
Entebbe is a former capital city of British Rule. It is an attractive and charming city on the shores of gorgeous Lake Victoria. It serves as a main travel hub with the only International airport in Uganda. As Entebbe is located on the Lake Victoria peninsula, so you can mark...
Read moreKampala is the capital city of Uganda and tourists spend a few days here before going to other attractions in Uganda. While staying in Kampala tourists can do many fun things to make their stay more joyful. Kampala is the largest city of Uganda too that is situated in the...
Read moreWhere is Jinja in Uganda and how we can mark the top places to visit there? It was a starting question to me when I included this place in my Uganda Itinerary. So, Jinja is a famous city in Uganda and home to the historic Source of the Nile River....
Read moreI have a long-lasting wish to travel overland in Africa. So, during my last trip(October 2021) to East Africa, I planned an overland Bus travel from Kenya to Uganda. Finally, it come out o be a unique experience as well as a nightmare to the overland border crossing between Kenya...
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