With the goal of delimiting Uganda, the British created colonial boundaries which grouped together a wide range of ethnic groups with different political systems and cultures. These differences prevented the establishment of a working political community after independence was achieved in 1962. The dictatorial regime of Idi Amin (1971-1979) was responsible for the deaths of some 300,000 opponents, and guerrilla war and human rights abuses under Milton Obote (1980-1985) claimed at least another 100,000 lives. Since 1986, the rule of Yoweri Museveni has brought relative stability and economic growth to Uganda. During the 1990s, the government declared non-party presidential and legislative elections. In January 2009, Uganda assumed a nonpermanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2009-2010 term.

Immunizations: Contact your physician or a travel clinic six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication, and advise you on the precautions to take to avoid getting sick.

Travel Insurance: Ingle International provides comprehensive travel insurance for adventure travelers who wish to cover themselves in preparation the unexpected.

Entry/Exit Requirements: To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting.

Vaccinations: Yellow fever and cholera vaccination certificates are required for travelers coming from infected areas.

Medical facilities are extremely limited outside of Kampala. Serious illness and medical emergencies may require evacuation by air ambulance, at the patient's expense. Travelers should ensure that they have a sufficient supply of prescription medicines as well as some medical supplies.

As the level of HIV/AIDS infection in Uganda is high, be cautious about activities involving the transmission of bodily fluids.

Exercise a High Degree of Caution

The decision to travel to a dangerous location is the sole responsibility of the traveler. Travelers are responsible for their own personal safety.

Avoid All Travel

It is advised to avoid all travel to areas bordering Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) due to ongoing insurgent activity.

Due to banditry and clashes between ethnic communities, overland travel to and within the Karamoja region of northeastern Uganda, particularly the districts of Kotido, Nakapiripiriti, and Moroto, as well as the adjoining district of Katakwi, should be avoided.

Some gorilla trekking tours cross into the eastern area of Democratic Republic of Congo. Travelers should not cross the border into the DRC with such tours, as the situation on the east side of DRC remains extremely volatile and unpredictable.

Crime

Banditry and carjackings occur throughout the country. Petty crime, including pickpocketing, purse- and jewelry-snatching is common. Thefts can take place in hotel rooms and vehicles. Vehicle doors should be locked and windows should be shut at all times. Personal belongings, including handbags, should be safely stored. Items such as laptops and briefcases should not be left in unattended vehicles. Travelers should remain vigilant when using public transportation, as pickpocketing and the theft of purses and bags often occur.

There has been an increase in reports of taxi and/or matatu (minibus) operators robbing their passengers and deserting them far from their destination. Avoid taxis and matatus with only one or two passengers, and exercise caution with possessions, such as wallets and bags, when using public transportation.

General Safety Information

Travelers should not show signs of affluence, and should avoid venturing out alone after dark in dimly lit or unlit backstreets. Traveling in groups is recommended.

Do not accept foods or drinks from strangers (or children) as they may be drugged. If attacked, do not resist. Resistance may result in violence.

Women should be particularly cautious when traveling alone in Uganda.

Tourist facilities and infrastructure are adequate in Kampala, but are limited elsewhere in the country.

In the event of an emergency, call 999.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations sometimes occur in Uganda; some have led to violence in the past. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid all demonstrations and public gatherings. Demonstrations may turn violent without warning. It is also advised to monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.

Fraud

Fraud involving credit cards, traveler’s checks, and wire transfers is common in Uganda. Travelers are advised to exercise caution when using ATMs, and to protect their personal banking information. Business fraud also occurs frequently. Scams range from attempts to engage business people in fictitious money transfer schemes to fraudulent solicitations where goods are supplied in fulfillment of non-existent Ugandan government contracts. Any unsolicited business proposal should be carefully scrutinized before funds are committed, goods or services are provided, or travel is undertaken.

Game Parks and Reserves

It is advised to contact the Uganda Wildlife Authority before visiting any parks or wildlife reserves. Visits to game parks and reserves should be undertaken only with a reputable tour company.

On March 16, 2010, the Kasubi Tombs (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) burned down. Although the cause of the fire is not yet known, protests resulting in casualties have been reported.

Natural Disasters and Climate

The rainy seasons extend from March to May and from October to November. Flooding and mudslides may occur during these months.

Natural disasters are possible due to regional volcanic activity. Uganda is located in a seismic zone. At the moment, Mount Elgon is stable.

Travelers should pay careful attention to regional weather forecasts and to all warnings issued.