Are Gay or Lesbian Travelers Allowed to Visit Uganda for a Safari? Uganda does not support homosexuality, BUT as a tourist, you are unlikely to face any problems since you are only in the country for a short time, unlike people who plan to stay longer.
Uganda values tourism, and since it is one of the top safari destinations in Africa, we would like you to visit and enjoy what the country has to offer. Uganda is a safe place for gay or lesbian travelers if you follow the precautions mentioned in this article.
LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) people live in Uganda, but most keep it private because of the laws. These laws may include penalties of up to 14 years in prison.
In 2014, the Ugandan government proposed a law that would punish people involved in homosexuality with life in prison. However, this law was later revised. Since then, LGBT people have been more private than before.
This situation also led to negative reactions from abroad and caused a drop in visitors to Uganda. The tourism industry was one of the most affected sectors, losing many travelers. The number of tourists to Uganda’s national parks dropped by about 35%, causing a loss in revenue.
Why Uganda is Safe for Gay and Lesbian Tourists
Many tourists do not take time to learn how gay travelers can stay safe in Uganda. Instead, they get worried by what they read online. To help ease your mind, President Museveni once gave an interview to Travel Trade Magazine and said he had no problem with gay tourists.
He said that he is against persecution, killing, or discrimination of gay people, and even mentioned that some chiefs in Uganda’s history were gay but never spoke about it in public.
He said, “What happens in private, regardless of sexual orientation, is private. But Western critics should respect that in Uganda, any public display of affection, gay or straight, would be offensive.”
He also shared that he has never shown any public affection to his wife, Janet Kataha Museveni, during all the years they have been married. In Ugandan culture, public acts of love are not accepted. Such acts should be kept private so that children and others are not exposed to them often. One reason why homosexuality was banned was to protect future generations from getting involved in such behavior.
Even though the president has no personal issue with gay travelers, it is important to note that he cannot cancel laws passed by Parliament. If Members of Parliament pass a law, the president does not have the power to remove it.
The Important Point
Uganda is safe for gay travelers who are willing to keep their sexuality private. No one at the airport or immigration will ask if you are gay. They will only ask for your $50 visa fee and maybe a few basic questions.
It is also not easy for anyone to tell that you are gay unless you show public affection or wear clothes that draw attention.
People in Uganda usually mind their own business and do not bother tourists. To make your safari experience better, we recommend booking with tour operators who will respect your rights, keep everything private, and support you during your visit.
Accommodation Tips
It may not be easy for two people of the same sex to book a deluxe room with one bed without raising suspicion among hotel staff. However, this is not a threat since hotels are in business and need your support.
To avoid attention, you may choose to book a twin room if you are sharing a room with your partner.
Final Word
Uganda is a very good country to visit. At Uganda Travel Blog, we care about your privacy and are happy to help you plan your safari. You can email us at info@ugandatravelblog.com and we will connect you with one of our safari partners. We will support you and do our best to meet your requests.
Book your Uganda tours with these recommended Uganda tour companies for a well planned safari. Use the Voucher: UTBlog for up to 25% Discounts on Trips.
