Uganda is generally safe for tourists, with most visits being trouble free. However, like at any destination, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. The government has made significant efforts to improve security, particularly in popular tourist areas. It is advisable to avoid traveling to certain regions, such as the northeastern Karamoja subregion and areas near the border with South Sudan. Check the latest travel advisories before your trip and take standard precautions such as safeguarding your belongings and avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

For travel to Uganda, routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and yearly flu shots are recommended. Additionally, most travelers should be vaccinated against hepatitis A and typhoids. Depending on your itinerary and activities, you may also need vaccination for Hepatitis B, Meningitis, and Rabies. Yellow Fever vaccination is required for entry into Uganda, and you need to show proof of vaccination at the border. It is best to consult with a travel health specialist or doctor at least 4-6 weeks before your trip to discuss your specific needs.

The best time to visit Uganda is during the dry season, which typically runs from mid-December to February and June to August. These periods offer the most favorable conditions for wildlife viewing and gorilla trekking, as the trails are drier and animals tend to gather around water sources. However, Uganda can be visited year-round, and the rainy seasons (March–May and September–November) have their own charm with lush landscapes and fewer tourists. If you are interested in watching birds, the wet season can be particularly rewarding. Keeping in mind that mountain gorilla permits are in high demand during peak seasons, books are well in advance.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda costs $700 per person for foreign nonresidents as of 2023. This fee includes a gorilla permit, which allows one hour with a gorilla family, park entrance fees, and the services of park rangers and guides. The cost was lower for East African residents at $600. It is important to note that this fee covers only the trekking experience and does not include accommodation, transportation, or other tour costs. Permits should be booked well in advance, particularly during peak seasons, as there is a limited number available each day. Although the cost may seem high, it contributes significantly to conservation efforts and local community development.

Uganda offers a wide range of accommodation options that suit various budgets and preferences. In major cities, such as Kampala and Entebbe, you will find international hotel chains, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly guesthouses. National parks and wildlife reserves offer lodges and tented camps ranging from luxury options to more basic facilities. Many of these provide stunning views, and are strategically located for wildlife viewing. For a more immersive experience, some areas offer community-run homestays or eco-lodges. In rural areas, accommodation may be more basic, but it often provides an authentic local experience. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or when visiting popular destinations such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.