FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) Offices situated?
Block C, 5th & 6th floor, Lugogo house – plot 42, Lugogo bypass
- Where can I get more information on UTB?
Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) is a statutory organisation which was established in 1994. The Board’s mandate is to promote and market Uganda domestically, across the region and internationally, promote quality assurance in tourist facilities through training, grading, and classification, promote tourism investment, support and act as a liaison for the private sector in tourism development. For more information visit: www.utb.go.ug
- Where do I send my partnership or sponsorship request or proposal to?
(Applies to requests to sponsor trips, tourism-related project funding e.t.c)All applications must be addressed to the Uganda Tourism Board CEO and via email to: ceo@utb.go.ug.
- Where is Uganda located?
Uganda lies astride the equator in Eastern Africa between longitudes 29O east and 350 east and between latitudes 4Onorth and south, at an average altitude of 1,100 meters above sea- level. Uganda’s total area is 236,580 sq/km.
- What is there to see in Uganda?
Known as the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda is located in the geographical heart of Africa (East Africa) and offers some of the continent’s most diverse wildlife viewing, dramatic landscapes, and immersive cultural experiences. Uganda is home to more than half the world’s population of mountain gorillas, and trekking to observe these gentle giants in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the world’s top bucket list travel activities. Safari opportunities abound in savanna, forest, and wetland settings throughout 10 national parks, where visitors can come face to face with “The Big Five” – lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo – as well as giraffe, zebra, chimpanzee, hippopotamus, crocodile, and more than half of all bird species found in Africa. Among Uganda’s extraordinary natural attractions are the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains; expansive Lake Victoria, which forms the source of the Nile River; and Murchison Falls National Park.
- Do I need a visa to enter Uganda?
Yes! With effect from March 1, 1999, the Government of Uganda introduced visa requirements for all visitors entering Uganda. However, the following countries are exempted:
- East African Community (EAC) Citizens from Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi and South Sudan.
- Nationals of COMESA countries( Angola, Comoros, Eritrea, Kenya, Malawi, Mauritius, Madagascar, Rwanda, Seychelles, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe)
- Other countries e.g. Antigua, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Fiji,Gambia, Grenada, Jamaica, Lesotho, Malta, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Solomon Islands, St. Vincent & The Grenadines, Tonga, Vanuatu, Italy (Only diplomatic passports) and Cyprus.For more information please visit; www.immigration.go.ug
- Where do I apply for a visa?
You can acquire a visa at Uganda’s high commission or embassy in your country of residence. You can also apply online via: www.visas.immigration.go.ug
- What immunizations are required when traveling to Uganda?
- Yellow fever and COVID-19 vaccine are essential.
- Hepatitis A and B, Meningitis, Tetanus, Polio, and Typhoid are recommended.
- What is the best time to visit Uganda?
Uganda’s weather is relatively sunny throughout the year but does experience a relatively rainy season between April – May, and September – November.
- Where do I find mountain gorillas in Uganda?
Mountain gorillas can be found in both Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, all located in the southwestern part of Uganda.
- How many gorillas are in Uganda?
Of the few remaining mountain gorillas worldwide, Uganda has the highest percentage. Over 50% of the world’s mountain gorillas call Uganda home; including the famous Silverback and Blackback. Tourists stand a 90% likelihood of seeing mountain gorillas on their first trek in Uganda’s highlands.
- How can I get gorilla permits?
Gorilla tracking is limited to only 18 people per day, and the permits are available only for people above 18 years. These can be obtained from the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
- Which age group is allowed for gorilla tracking?
Gorilla tracking is strictly for those who are 15 years and above. It is always advisable to seek more information from the Uganda Wildlife Authority when in need of a tracking permit.
- When is the best time to track Gorillas?
Gorillas are available all year through, but tracking is suitable during relatively dry seasons of February to March and July to September.
- Where do I find Chimpanzees in Uganda?
Kibale Forest in Kibale National has the highest concentration of Chimps in Africa. Chimpanzees can also be found where mountain Gorillas exist at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The Ngamba Island on L. Victoria was reserved as a Chimpanzees Sanctuary tourists can visit the island throughout the year to enjoy these playful creatures.
- How many cultures are in Uganda?
Uganda has long been a cultural melting pot, as evidenced by the existence of 30 plus indigenous languages belonging to five distinct linguistic groups, and an equally diverse cultural mosaic of music, art, and handicrafts.
- Request for jobs & internships
Jobs and internship positions are advertised in public media based on availability. Check the careers page on www.utb.go.ug for available vacancies and procedures for application.