Is it safe to travel to Uganda? It’s a question many first-time travelers thinking about exploring this landlocked East African nation ask themselves – and us. Although foreign governments issue travel warnings from time to time, Uganda is actually very safe for tourists. Politically stable and with an ever-improving infrastructure, the chances of becoming a victim of a crime as a visitor to the country are low, especially when joining guided tours in Uganda.

How Safe is Uganda?

Let’s start to answer the question. It is safe to travel to Uganda by learning a little more about Uganda and its safety record. It can be difficult to compare statistics from different parts of the world when it comes to safety for many reasons. A destination like Uganda should never be compared like-for-like with countries in North America or Europe as a result.
However, whichever way you look at it, it is safe to travel to Uganda. And here’s why. Since the mid-1980s, Uganda has been stable politically. Known as the ‘pearl of Africa’ since before independence, the country welcomes tens of thousands of international travelers, gap year visitors, and expatriate workers to its facet of attractions each year. The vast majority return home with nothing but praise for the country and its security situation.
As we’ll see, attractions frequented by international travelers are especially safe. But we’ll first detail what to expect from Uganda’s cities.
Is it Safe to Travel to Uganda’s Cities?
The primary reason for traveling to Uganda’s cities is to get in and out of the country. Entebbe, for example, is the location of the country’s main international airport. The area around the capital, Kampala, has its fair share of attractions, though, including the Uganda National Museum and UNESCO World Heritage Site Kasubi Royal Tombs.
The largest city in the country, Kampala, has problems similar to any other city in the world. As long as you know your surroundings and don’t do anything you wouldn’t do in New York or London, it’s unlikely you will face any trouble.
To be extra safe, we recommend you avoid wearing or carrying flashy or expensive items such as watches, jewelry made from precious metals, or electronic devices such as iPads. When handling cash in public places, only display small amounts – leave the rest in a hotel safe with your passport.
It’s usually perfectly safe to walk around the city center by day. During the hours of darkness, from approximately 6 pm to 6 am, you should use a taxi. If unsure, opt for a guided sightseeing tour for added security and peace of mind.
Safety in Uganda’s National Parks
Uganda’s national parks are perhaps the safest destinations in the entire country, and it’s extremely rare for travelers to Uganda to suffer any dangers while gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or heading out on safari inside Queen Elizabeth or Kidepo national parks.
Despite what you may think, animal attacks against humans in Uganda’s national parks are all but unheard of. When traveling by 4×4, animals see the vehicle as one single entity, while in camps, humans and animals have lived side by side for years without problem. As long as you follow any guidelines by camp staff or rangers, such as maintaining a sensible distance between you and the animals at all times, you won’t ever have to question whether it is safe to travel to Uganda.
Petty crimes such as thefts from rooms are also thankfully rare. Given the location of most national parks far from large towns and cities, there is little scope for criminals to infiltrate sites. Staff will not want to risk their livelihoods or face severe police action by getting involved in crime, either.
Is it Safe to Travel to Uganda by Road?
Since Uganda is a relatively small country by African standards, at 93,000 square miles (the size of the US state of Michigan or the UK), most travel occurs by road rather than by air.
The upside to this mode of transport is that travelers get to see and experience much more of the country than they would from several thousand feet up. But is it safe to travel to Uganda overland? Are there any downsides?
If you’re not used to driving abroad, it’s probably best not to sit behind the wheel in Uganda. Most tours will include a driver-guide, while independent travelers can hire a car with a driver. Main roads between cities are in relatively good order, although speeding can be an issue. The national speed limit is 60 mph.
Roads to more rural areas can be little more than dirt tracks. So if you plan to explore the countryside, you should take the drive slowly and allow plenty of time. A vehicle capable of four-wheel drive is a must. Few roads have lighting when it gets dark, making it best to arrive before sunset. Travel can also be seriously curtailed on these roads during the rainy seasons.
Climate and Traveling Safely to Uganda
Crossed by the equator, Uganda has a tropical climate with year-round temperatures of around 26°C (78°F) on a daily basis and peaks of 29°C (84°F). Humidity levels can make it feel hotter, rising to 67% humidity in September.
The least humid month of the year is February, just before the first rainy season, with levels of around 50%. For most of the country, rain is the dominant weather condition from March to May and from September to December. The country’s far north has just one rainy season, lasting from March to October.
Staying Safe When Traveling in Uganda
Although African nations such as Uganda can have a bad reputation regarding safety, the reality on the ground is often very different. Travel to Uganda on an organized tour, and you will soon forget any safety concerns you had. Instead, you’ll be able to enjoy the country’s national parks, urban sights, and fascinating culture.

Final Thought

Are you ready to experience Uganda’s breathtaking beauty and warm hospitality? Don’t let safety concerns hold you back.
Uganda is one of Africa’s most welcoming and secure destinations. From gorilla trekking in Bwindi to boat cruises on the Nile, every adventure awaits. Book your Uganda trip today and discover why travelers call it the Pearl of Africa!