Uganda

Terrorism remains a threat in Uganda. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.

Uganda has increased security arrangements in public places. This includes borders and at the international airport.

Expect body, car and luggage checks when travelling, especially in Kampala.

Terrorist attacks have resulted in fatalities and injuries, including in Kampala and Queen Elizabeth National Park in western Uganda.

Possible targets for terror attacks include:

• large gatherings, including large-scale worship services, and music and cultural festivals
• tourist areas, hotels, resorts restaurants, bars, clubs,
• markets and shopping centres
• schools, places of worship, outdoor and political events
• airports, bus terminals, public transport and government buildings

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• avoid visiting locations that are possible terrorist targets
• consider the level of security at venues you're visiting
• be alert in crowded places and monitor local media
• pay close attention to your personal security
• take official warnings seriously and follow official instructions

Report any suspicious items or activities to police.

If there's a terrorist attack, leave the affected area immediately if it's safe to do so.

Avoid the affected area afterwards as there may be further attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk.

There’s a risk of kidnapping in Uganda, including in the capital Kampala. Kidnappings are usually criminally motivated and target the local population. The risk of kidnapping is higher in the border regions with DRC and South Sudan.

If despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, be aware that our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations is limited. 

You are responsible for your own safety. To reduce the risk of being kidnapped:

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings - avoid distractions. Be prepared to stop or take evasive action if you sense danger
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk. It is essential to have a contingency plan
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures
• vary your movements so you don't set predictable patterns
• keep a low profile – including online. Drawing attention to yourself in high-risk areas may signal to criminals that you have something worth taking
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone. There is safety in numbers, and you should try to travel with someone else, especially at night
• notify family or friends of planned travel; share your location and emergency contacts that they can rely on if something happens
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone. Criminals have been known to search social media for victims
• If you are confronted by armed criminals, it is best to surrender and cooperate – resistance tends to make the situation worse

More information on how to reduce your risk of being kidnapped: Kidnapping.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Ransom payments to terrorist groups are likely to contravene Australian counter-terrorism financing laws. 

More information:

• Kidnapping
• Scams that affect travellers (Smartraveller)
• Reducing the risk of piracy (Smartraveller)

Demonstrations and protests

Political and other demonstrations can become violent without warning, causing loss of life and injury. Police have used tear gas, rubber bullets and live ammunition to disperse demonstrators. You should take great care and avoid all demonstrations and rallies where possible.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid large gatherings, political rallies and demonstrations
• monitor the media
• avoid affected areas
• follow advice from local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Border violence 

It's extremely unstable in the neighbouring DRC. Cross-border attacks by rebel groups can happen without notice, and it's volatile. You may be at risk of attack by armed bandits in border areas North and South of Lake Albert.

Tourist areas, including Rwenzori Mountains and national parks, are near the border.

The Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) is no longer active in Uganda but remains active in the DRC and Central African Republic.

Clashes between tribal groups can occur without warning in the Karamoja region of north-eastern Uganda. Hotspots include districts north of Kate Kyoga:

• Kotido
• Moroto
• Nakapiripirit
• Katakwi

There's a risk of inter-tribal violence and armed bandits.

Uncleared landmines are still a danger.

Gorilla trekking

Security is usually required when gorilla trekking in:

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Mgahinga Gorilla Park
• other parts of western Uganda

You're at risk of armed attacks in those regions.

Travellers have been subject to violence. The security situation can change with little warning.

For your safety, don't take gorilla trekking tours that cross into the DRC.

Fly rather than drive if you travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla Park.

More information:

• Ugandan Wildlife Authority

Pickpocketing, bag snatching and other petty crime happens, especially on public transport.

Theft from vehicles stuck in heavy traffic or stopped at traffic lights is common.

Armed robbery and carjacking is a risk, especially outside Kampala.

Home burglaries can turn violent.

To protect yourself from crime:

• keep car windows up and doors locked when moving
• lock doors and windows at your accommodation
• don't walk in isolated areas or along dark streets at night
• hold bags and backpacks in front of you or in ways that make them harder to snatch
• keep your passport, bank cards and money separately
• never leave your bags unsupervised at a ticket office or a registration desk
• don’t carry large sums of money if you can avoid it.

Scams

Financial scams exist in Uganda.

If you fall victim to a scam, it could be dangerous to go to Uganda to try to get your money back.

Fake internet friendship, dating and marriage scams operate globally, including from some African countries.

Once an online friendship develops, you'll probably be asked by your 'friend' or planned marriage partner to send money. This is so the 'friend' can travel to Australia or make something else possible.

Sometimes the relationship ends with very little chance of getting your money back.

Other times your 'friend' or planned partner will ask you travel to Africa to meet them. If you do this, you could be kidnapped, assaulted or robbed.

Credit card fraud is also a risk.

To avoid becoming a victim of a scam:

• check all online offers from people in Uganda, or people you don't know
• take legal advice before agreeing to anything
• don't send money to anyone in Uganda until proper checks are made
• get legal advice if you're the victim of a scam
• keep your credit card in sight when making transactions

Don't travel to Uganda to try to get your money back.

More information:

• Scams

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Drink spiking can happen anywhere. Be alert to the potential risks, and don't leave food or drinks unattended. Pay attention when your drinks are being mixed. Stick to reputable venues and avoid homemade alcoholic drinks due to the risk of methanol poisoning. 

Get urgent medical help if you suspect you’ve been a victim.

Methanol can be used in unregulated alcohol production to lower costs. Methanol is highly toxic. As little as one shot can be fatal. Act quickly if you suspect you or someone you're travelling with has been poisoned. Urgent medical attention could save your life or save you from permanent disability. Report suspected cases of methanol poisoning to the police.

• be careful drinking cocktails and drinks made with spirits
• drink only at reputable licensed premises
• avoid home-made alcoholic drinks
• labels on bottles aren't always accurate

More information:

• Partying safely

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities, such as white-water rafting.

If you plan to do a tour or adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• only use respected and registered tour operators
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

National parks

Some of Uganda's national parks have security risks. Many parks in western Uganda are situated within 50 kilometres of the border with DRC, where you should reconsider your need to travel.

For advice on security risks, park fees and other conditions in national parks, contact the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

If you plan to visit a national park:

• think about the security risks
• obey all park rules
• follow the advice of local authorities and park wardens
• use a registered tour operator

Swimming safety

Don't swim in lakes and rivers. Hippos and crocodiles inhabit many lakes and rivers and are extremely dangerous.

Uganda can experience natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• earthquakes
• flooding
• landslides

The rainy seasons are from March to May, and October to November.

Flooding can cause landslides, leaving people without homes and blocking roads.

To protect yourself if a natural disaster occurs:

• keep your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• closely monitor local media
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in touch with friends and family

More information:

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Uganda. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Many pharmaceutical products are in short supply or not available in Uganda.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a dated letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

Mpox

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the current mpox outbreak in parts of Africa as a global public health emergency. It has now spread across a number of countries in Africa, including Uganda.

Mpox can be transmitted to humans through physical contact with an infectious person, infected animals or contaminated materials.

Symptoms include:

• rash
• fever
• sore throat
• headache
• muscle aches
• back pain
• low energy
• swollen lymph nodes

Seek professional medical advice on mpox vaccines.

Maintain strict hygiene standards. Avoid physical contact with anyone who has mpox.

See a doctor if you feel unwell and isolate from others if you develop any mpox symptoms.

More information:

• Mpox (Australian Government)
• Infectious diseases

Ebola virus disease (EVD)

There are occasional Ebola outbreaks in Uganda. Ebola virus can be transmitted to humans through physical contact with an infectious person, infected animals or contaminated materials.

Symptoms of Ebola virus disease begin 2 to 21 days after exposure. They can start suddenly and include:

• fever
• chills
• headache
• sore throat
• feeling tired
• joint pain
• muscle pain and weakness

These symptoms may be followed by:

• nausea
• vomiting that can be bloody
• diarrhea that can be bloody
• rash
• bleeding

You should monitor guidance issued by the Government of Uganda and local media to ensure you have the latest information.

Further information and updates on Ebola can also be found on the World Health Organization (WHO) website.

More information:

• Uganda WHO Office
• Infectious diseases

Insect-borne diseases

Yellow fever is widespread in Uganda. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel. Carry your vaccination card with you.

Malaria is common throughout the year.

Other insect-borne diseases found in Uganda include:

• plague
• chikungunya

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medication to prevent malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Bird flu (avian influenza)

Avian influenza is a risk. Avoid contact with dead and living birds.

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is a risk. Take precautions if you engage in activities that expose you to the virus.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• typhoid
• cholera
• hepatitis
• meningitis
• tuberculosis
• meningococcal disease
• viral haemorrhagic fevers

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• don't eat raw or undercooked food, such as salads
• don't swim in fresh water
• avoid physical contact with anyone who has mpox

Check with your doctor about typhoid vaccinations.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

There are very limited medical facilities outside of Kampala.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to Nairobi, Kenya, or another place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. 

LGBTQIA+ travellers

Uganda's law prohibits same-sex relationships, and convictions under these laws may result in severe sentences, up to the death penalty for certain cases. Same-sex public displays of affection, like kissing in public places, could lead to arrest and imprisonment. Groups, individuals, or legal entities advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights or promoting homosexuality could lead to arrest and long-term imprisonment. Members of the LGBTQIA+ community may face discrimination, potential violence and abuse. 

LGBTQIA+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Uganda.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Drugs

There are heavy penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs.

If you're convicted of a drug offence, you'll face a long jail sentence and heavy fines.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Surrogacy

If you plan to take part in commercial or altruistic surrogacy arrangements in Uganda, be aware of all legal and other risks involved.

Although it is not illegal, surrogacy is not regulated by law in Uganda. Get comprehensive and independent legal advice from a Ugandan lawyer with specialisation in this area of law.

Research prospective agencies and clinics to ensure you’re dealing with a reputable organisation.

Same-sex couples may encounter issues when engaging in surrogacy arrangements in Uganda.

The Australian High Commission can't provide:

• legal advice about surrogacy
• information on clinics or agencies
• translation/interpretation services

You may need to spend several months in Uganda before and after the birth. Don’t confirm travel plans until you’ve finalised Australian citizenship and passport processes. This means: 

• you may miss family, work, or business commitments
• if you take prescription medication, take more than you think you will need
• have funds available to extend your stay if needed
• mentally prepare yourself for an extended stay in Uganda. 

More information:

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Going overseas to adopt

Other laws

Treason and murder carry the death penalty.

Rape and robbery attract corporal punishment.

In Uganda, it's illegal to:

• take photos of military, government and diplomatic buildings and areas
• wear military-style or camouflage civilian clothing

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Uganda recognises dual nationality.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Visas

You need a visa to visit Uganda.

The East African Community's EAC Tourist Visa allows travellers multiple entries to Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda for 90 days. Another option is to apply for a visa from the Government of Uganda. Apply for the EAC Tourist Visa or a Ugandan visa by using Uganda's online visa application.

Border measures

Check the entry requirements of the destinations you're travelling to or transiting.

Ensure you review and comply with testing and health screening requirements for any transit and destination countries. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice.

Yellow fever vaccination

You need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Uganda. Some airlines may want to see a certificate when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

More information:

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX).

You must declare all foreign currency on arrival. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash. If you don't, you may have trouble taking it when you leave.

Only exchange money at commercial banks and exchange bureaus.

US dollars are widely accepted. You may not be able to change US banknotes printed before 2006.

You will probably need cash in Uganda. However, some larger stores, restaurants and hotels, especially in tourist areas, may accept card payments.

Local restrictions 

For the latest information on the Ebola outbreak, follow the advice issued by the Government of Uganda and monitor the local media. 

When in public, anyone aged 6 or above must wear masks and maintain social distancing.

Driving permit

To drive in Uganda, you need both:

• a valid Australian driver's licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

You must get your IDP before leaving Australia.

Road travel

Traffic accidents are common and there's a high risk at night.

Hazards include:

• poor road and vehicle conditions
• bad driving habits
• high speeds
• poor lighting

The Ugandan Government sometimes closes tourist areas if there's a risk of rebel activity.

If you plan to drive in Uganda:

• check local traffic laws and practices
• be alert to possible hazards, especially at night
• check security risks and road closures before you travel outside major centres
• don't travel between towns after dusk, except between Kampala and Entebbe

The border between Uganda and Rwanda regularly closes for extended periods.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check with your travel insurer whether your policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Only use registered taxis and limousines due to the high risk of crime. It's best to arrange this through your hotel.

Don't use unofficial taxis or hail taxis on the street. You could be robbed.

Public transport

Long-distance bus travel can be dangerous. Accidents are common.

Some buses travelling overnight have been robbed. They have been forced to stop by roadblocks or by criminals acting as passengers.

Minibuses ('matatus') and scooter taxis (boda-boda) are usually in poor condition and badly driven.

If you need to take public transport, don't use matatus and boda-bodas. If you do take a boda-boda, 
always wear a helmet.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Boat travel

There have been a number of passenger ferry accidents because of overcrowding. Use a trusted operator. 

Wear a life jacket at all times, even if others don't.

More information:

• Travelling by boat

Air travel

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Uganda's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, you should contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 999.

Medical emergencies

Call 999 or go to the hospital.

Police

Call 999.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

The Australian Consulate in Kampala provides limited consular help to Australians in Uganda. The consulate doesn't issue passports.

Full consular help is available from the Australian High Commission in Kenya.

Australian Consulate, Kampala

Protea Hotel by Marriott Kampala Skyz
1 Water Lane Naguru
Kampala, Uganda

Phone: (+256) 31 2515865 or (+256) 77 2202285 

Email: australianconsulate.ug@gmail.com

By appointment only.

Australian High Commission, Nairobi

Limuru Road, Rosslyn 
Nairobi, Kenya 

Phone: +254 20 4277 100 
Fax: +254 20 4277 139 

Website: kenya.highcommission.gov.au
Facebook: Australian High Commission, Kenya
Twitter: @AusHCKenya

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia