Your Questions Answered

We've compiled answers to the most common questions about safaris in Uganda. If you can't find what you're looking for, please contact us directly.

How do I book a safari with Shemeza Safari Escapes?

Booking a safari with us is easy. You can:

After receiving your inquiry, our safari experts will contact you within 24 hours to discuss your preferences and provide a customized itinerary and quote.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept the following payment methods:

  • Credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
  • Bank transfers
  • PayPal

All payments are processed in US Dollars (USD). Any bank charges or currency conversion fees are the responsibility of the client.

What is your cancellation policy?

Our standard cancellation policy is as follows:

  • More than 60 days before safari start date: Loss of deposit (30% of total safari cost)
  • 30-59 days before safari start date: 50% of total safari cost
  • Less than 30 days before safari start date: 100% of total safari cost (no refund)

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes cancellation coverage. For full details, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

Do I need to pay the full amount upfront?

No, we require a 30% non-refundable deposit to secure your booking. The remaining balance is due 60 days before your safari start date. For bookings made within 60 days of departure, full payment is required at the time of booking.

What is the best time to visit Uganda for a safari?

Uganda can be visited year-round, but the best times for wildlife viewing are during the dry seasons:

  • December to February
  • June to September

These periods offer better road conditions and wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around water sources. For gorilla trekking, while possible year-round, the dry seasons provide better hiking conditions.

The wet seasons (March to May and October to November) offer lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower rates, but some roads may be challenging and trekking can be more difficult.

How many days do I need for a safari in Uganda?

We recommend at least 7-10 days for a comprehensive Uganda safari experience. This allows you to:

  • Visit multiple national parks (e.g., Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, Murchison Falls)
  • Include gorilla trekking and other wildlife activities
  • Have some relaxation time between travel days

For those with limited time, we offer shorter 3-5 day safaris focusing on specific experiences. For wildlife enthusiasts wanting to explore more thoroughly, 14+ day itineraries are available.

What wildlife can I expect to see in Uganda?

Uganda offers incredible wildlife diversity including:

  • Primates: Mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and various other monkey species
  • Big cats: Lions (including tree-climbing lions in Ishasha), leopards, and serval cats
  • Other mammals: Elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, zebras, various antelope species
  • Birds: Over 1,000 bird species, making Uganda a premier birding destination

Wildlife sightings depend on the parks visited, season, and luck. Our guides are experts at tracking and spotting animals to maximize your chances of amazing encounters.

How physically demanding is gorilla trekking?

Gorilla trekking can be moderately to very physically demanding, depending on where the gorilla families are located on the day of your trek. Treks can last anywhere from 1 to 6+ hours through dense forest, steep terrain, and varying altitudes (1,400-2,500m).

You should be in reasonably good physical condition and prepared for:

  • Hiking on uneven, sometimes muddy terrain
  • Steep ascents and descents
  • Humidity and potentially hot conditions

For those with limited mobility, porters are available to help carry your daypack and assist you during challenging sections. In Bwindi, there are also gorilla families that tend to stay in more accessible areas, which we can request (though this cannot be guaranteed).

Do I need a visa to visit Uganda?

Most visitors to Uganda require a visa. You have two options:

  1. E-visa: Apply online through the official Uganda e-visa portal before travel
  2. East Africa Tourist Visa: If you're also visiting Kenya and Rwanda, this multiple-entry visa allows travel between all three countries

Visa requirements can change, so we recommend checking the latest information on the official immigration website or with your nearest Ugandan embassy/consulate before travel.

What vaccinations do I need for Uganda?

Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into Uganda, and you'll need to show your International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card) upon arrival.

Other recommended vaccinations include:

  • Hepatitis A and B
  • Typhoid
  • Tetanus
  • Polio
  • Meningitis

Malaria prophylaxis is also strongly recommended as Uganda is a high-risk area for malaria.

We recommend consulting with a travel health specialist or visiting a travel clinic at least 8 weeks before your trip for personalized advice.

What should I pack for a safari in Uganda?

Essential items for your Uganda safari include:

  • Clothing: Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, beige); long-sleeved shirts and pants for protection from sun and insects; light rain jacket; fleece or sweater for cool evenings; sturdy hiking boots for trekking; hat with brim
  • For gorilla trekking: Gardening gloves for grabbing onto vegetation; gaiters or tuck pants into socks to protect from ants; waterproof hiking boots
  • Protection: High SPF sunscreen; insect repellent with DEET; sunglasses
  • Equipment: Binoculars; camera with zoom lens and extra batteries; headlamp or flashlight; daypack for treks
  • Health items: Personal medications; basic first aid kit; hand sanitizer; wet wipes

A detailed packing list will be provided with your booking confirmation.

Is Uganda safe for tourists?

Uganda is generally safe for tourists, especially in the main safari areas and national parks. The Ugandan people are known for their warmth and hospitality.

As with travel to any destination, standard precautions should be taken:

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in urban areas
  • Avoid displaying valuable items
  • Use hotel safes for passports and extra cash
  • Follow your guide's instructions in wildlife areas

Our guides are experienced professionals who prioritize your safety and security throughout your safari. We also monitor local conditions continuously and will adjust itineraries if necessary for safety reasons.

What types of accommodation are available on your safaris?

We offer a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets:

  • Luxury Lodges: 5-star properties with exceptional service, gourmet dining, and premium amenities such as private plunge pools, spa facilities, and stunning views
  • Mid-Range Lodges: Comfortable 3-4 star accommodations with good amenities, reliable service, and pleasant surroundings
  • Budget Accommodations: Clean, basic facilities that provide good value while maintaining comfort and safety standards
  • Tented Camps: Range from luxury to basic, offering a more immersive safari experience while still providing essential comforts

All accommodations we use are carefully selected based on location, quality, service standards, and sustainability practices.

Do the accommodations have electricity and Wi-Fi?

Most accommodations have electricity, though some remote lodges and camps operate on generators with limited hours (typically morning and evening). Many properties use solar power.

Wi-Fi availability varies:

  • Luxury lodges typically offer Wi-Fi in common areas and sometimes in rooms
  • Mid-range accommodations often have Wi-Fi in common areas, though it may be slow or intermittent
  • Remote locations may have limited or no connectivity

We recommend informing friends and family that you may be unreachable at times during your safari, especially in remote areas like Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Are meals included in the safari packages?

Yes, most of our safari packages include full board accommodation (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Some urban hotels at the beginning or end of your safari may be booked on a bed and breakfast basis.

Our safari packages typically include:

  • All meals as specified in your itinerary
  • Bottled water during game drives and activities
  • Tea and coffee at lodges

Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and specialty coffees are usually not included unless specified (some luxury lodges offer all-inclusive packages).

We can accommodate dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.) with advance notice.

Are the accommodations family-friendly?

Many accommodations in Uganda are family-friendly, though policies vary by property. Some considerations:

  • Many lodges offer family rooms, interconnecting rooms, or cottages that can accommodate families
  • Some luxury lodges have age restrictions for safety reasons
  • For gorilla trekking, the minimum age is 15 years
  • Some lodges offer special activities for children, such as junior ranger programs

When planning a family safari, please let us know the ages of all children so we can recommend suitable accommodations and activities.

Still have questions?

We're here to help! Contact our safari experts for personalized assistance.