Want to learn about safety in Uganda? Uganda is considered safe for visitors. The steady increase in tourist arrivals at entry points such as Entebbe International Airport and border posts like Katuna shows that the country enjoys peace.
Crime rates are low, though petty theft such as pick-pocketing can occur in busy city streets. Tourists are advised to avoid crowded places and to walk with a local guide in towns like Kampala, Jinja, Gulu, and Mbarara. Cases of theft at lodges or hotels are rare because most facilities employ security guards or tourism police.
Uganda also maintains good relations with its neighbors and is part of the East African Community, which promotes regional cooperation. For more than 30 years, the country has not experienced wars or political unrest. Security is ensured by the Uganda People’s Defense Forces, the Uganda Police, and park rangers under the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
Health in Uganda
Uganda has not had major outbreaks of contagious diseases such as cholera in recent years. The Covid-19 pandemic was well controlled, and the country recorded relatively low cases. Malaria and hepatitis still occur, so visitors are advised to sleep under mosquito nets and use insect repellent.
Tourists should drink bottled mineral water, with Rwenzori being the most common brand, available across the country. Boiled water is also safe to drink if bottled water is not available.
Climate in Uganda
Uganda has a tropical climate with two rainy seasons (March to May and September to November) and two dry seasons (December to February and June to August). The weather is generally favorable for travel throughout the year. However, during the rainy months, there can be flooding, muddy roads, and occasional landslides.
Road Safety in Uganda
Driving is safe during the daytime, and vehicles keep left on the road. Most roads are gravel, with some tarmac highways that may have potholes. Animals such as cattle are often seen on the roadside, so drivers need to be cautious. Night driving is discouraged because of the risk of meeting reckless drivers.
Uganda is one of the top tourist destinations in East Africa, which is why Winston Churchill called it “the Pearl of Africa.” It shares borders with South Sudan, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Although the country experienced political instability between the 1960s and 1980s, it regained peace after the current president, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, came to power.
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