The Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) is a well-known tourism trade association in the Uganda tourism industry. It is mainly aimed at representing the needs and interests of member tour companies. AUTO members are called professional tour operators, which I partly do not agree with.
Even though its members are ethical and follow the rules set by the organization, I know some AUTO members who have less experience compared to non-members.
AUTO members are regularly monitored. If an operator is found in issues like fraud, they are removed from the list immediately with no chance of returning. This helps the organization keep a clean list of operators.
This Uganda tour and travel operator organization is managed by people from the member tour companies. These leaders are elected by votes and serve for 2 years. When their term ends, new members are elected.
The organization is based at Capital Shoppers Building in Nakawa. It was formed in 1995 and now has over two hundred and seventy members. You can see the current list here: http://auto.or.ug/members
What the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) Promises
AUTO works to keep a good reputation for the Uganda tourism industry by making sure tour companies offer good services and value.
AUTO gives travel agents and tourists confidence when booking safaris in Uganda. This includes financial protection and help in case you face any problems during your trip.
AUTO advises the Ministry of Tourism on how to issue, cancel, or renew a tour operator’s license.
AUTO also helps member companies solve problems or conflicts that may happen during business with other members or with non-members.
One thing I really like is their PR service. AUTO members receive regular updates by email. These include gorilla permit availability, tourism events, marketing expos, and more. It is easy to stay informed if you are a member.
Why Book with Members of AUTO?
Booking with AUTO members gives you financial protection and better service. If a problem happens, you can send a complaint to the organization. The member you booked with will be questioned and judged. If found guilty, they may lose their membership or even have their license cancelled. No member wants this to happen, so they work hard to give good service.
Please note that you only have this protection if you book with an AUTO member. If you book with a non-member, you cannot complain to the organization.
What If Your Preferred Operator Is Not a Member?
Sometimes, a non-AUTO member may offer a better price, and you may want to go with them.
So, what if your operator is not a member? Don’t worry. Some non-members offer better service than some members. You just have to make sure the company is real and working. This is where TripAdvisor can help. If the company has good reviews, you can book with them.
To conclude, booking your Uganda safaris with AUTO members is good, and booking with trusted non-members is also fine. When you receive a travel package, you will be able to know which operator has more experience.
I always tell tourists to do some research online and ask questions to operators. But this does not mean you should ignore what your Uganda tour operator tells you. They usually know more than you do, and you should respect their advice unless you are sure your information is correct.
I also advise people who want to go gorilla trekking in Uganda to book with gorilla trekking companies instead of general tour operators. A gorilla trekking company is more experienced in organizing gorilla safaris than a company that offers many kinds of tours.
