GENERAL
INFORMATION ON UGANDA
ACCOMMODATION:
In Kampala, a number of good hotels are available to choose from to
fit every budget. Elsewhere across the country and in the National
Parks, hotels and inns are generally available, but quality of service
and quantity of rooms vary greatly. Afri Tours takes care in booking
the best accommodation available for your safaris. All of our prepared
itineraries start from Kampala. If you require pre-or post -safari
hotel bookings in Kampala or airport transfers to/from Entebbe, contact
us so that we can make these arrangements for you. Reservations should
be made in advance. AIRPORT:
Most guests to Uganda arrive by air, landing at the Entebbe International
Airport, approximately 45 minutes drive from the capital Kampala.
Transfers to and from the airport are available for any size group.
Your Departure tax is incorporated in your tickets.
AIRLINES:
Many Airlines visit Uganda regularly include: Air Tanzania, British
Airways, Egypt Air, Ethiopian Airlines, Gulf Air, Kenya Airways,
SN Brussels (formally Sabena) and South African Airways. There are
daily connections of Nairobi. There are also several reputable domestic
charter companies to choose from.
ALCOHOL:
Several brand of local beer are available, including Bell, Club
and Nile Special. There are some locally made spirits but most spirits
and wines are imported and are readily available at slightly elevated
prices. There are no longer limitations on the drinking of alcohol
in Uganda.
BANKING:
Several international banks operate in Uganda including Barclays,
Standard Chartered and Stanbic. Many local banks and forex bureaux
also operate across the country. Generally the banking hours are
8.30A.M. to 3:00 P.M., Monday to Friday, though some institutions
are open longer hours and on Saturdays. There are no longer restrictions
on foreign exchange transactions and currency is easily convertible.
Use only USD notes dated after 1990.
CLIMATE:
Uganda enjoys ideal weather conditions ranging from the warmth of
the lowlands to the coolness of the highlands. Mean temperatures
are between 21C and 31 C all the year around. Wet seasons are March
- May and October - November.
CLOTHING:
Light summer clothing supplemented by a sweater or jacket should
be sufficient all year round. Usually dressing is informal. Cotton
slacks and flat-heeled comfortable walking shoes are recommended
on safari. Don't forget to bring a hat for sun protection and a
swimsuit. Umbrellas and Raincoats are recommended in the wet seasons,
but not essential. Request additional details at the time of booking.
CREDIT CARDS:
AMEX, Visa and MasterCard are only accepted at a few choice establishments
in Kampala and some lodges. Although At Barclays you can get cash
on your credit card.
CURRENCY:
The Uganda Shilling is the currency used. It is issued in denominations
of 50, 100, 200, 500 (coins) and 1000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000 UgShs
notes. The rates vary, but are readily available from banks and
forex bureaux. The rate as of Jan 2002 was $1 = 1750 UgShs.
DRINKING WATER:
We recommend that you do not drink tap water. Most hotels and restaurants
provide previously boiled drinking water. Mineral water is also
available.
FOODS: Delicious fresh tropical fruits and vegetables are plentiful
throughout the country. A wide range of dishes, both traditional
and international, are served in the hotels and restaurants.
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS:
Certificates are required for vaccination against yellow fever.
Check current medical advice on typhoid, cholera and hepatitis.
Malarial risk is general and prophylactics should be taken. It is
advisable to start anti-malaria medications 10 days prior to arrival
and continue with the same for a minimum of 14 days after leaving
East Africa.
LANGUAGE:
The official language is English though Kiswahili and Luganda are
commonly spoken throughout the country.
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Though some types of film are available in many of the lodges, it
is advisable to bring films and batteries with you or to purchase
them in Kampala. A pair of binoculars will prove extremely useful
for the keen game viewer. There is no charge for photography cameras
but there may be a charge for video cameras in some places. Clients
are directly responsible for any such fees.
SECURITY:
Precautions should be taken as in any major city. Unless safety
deposit boxes are available in your hotel or lodge, always carry
travel documents, travellers cheques, cash and other valuable with
you at all times. We recommend that you do not walk late in the
night but instead take a taxi.
SPORTS FACILITIES:
There are a variety of sports available in the Kampala and Entebbe
city centres - squash, golf, tennis, etc. Fishing, on Lake Victoria
or the Nile River, and White Water Rafting from Bujagali Falls is
also popular. Arrangements can be made for these activities depending
on individual's interests.
TRANSPORT:
The roads are generally in fair condition. Four-wheel drive vehicles
may be required for up-country use, especially in the national park
during the rainy seasons. We maintain a fleet of saloon cars; mini-buses
and four wheel drive vehicles, with driver/guides. Please enquire
for further details and tariffs.
VISAS:
Visas are generally available at all entry points including Entebbe
airport, they cost $30 (January 2002). A FINAL WORD:
Things in Africa may not work in the same way as home; some times
there are inexplicable delays. We appreciate your patience. Sit
back and enjoy your safari. Everything will work out in the end.
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