Visit Uganda – Tips For Traveling Alone

Beyond the usual driver-guided safaris, Uganda is also open to solo travelers. Uganda is considerably one of the exceptional destinations, unique in the sense that holidaymakers can incorporate diverse experiences and activities into one trip plan.

Solo traveling typically comes with its vibe and a lot of inspiration. While on a solo trip, there is a lot of excitement but you should also consider taking keen attention to your surroundings and others. But what is interesting about it is that a visitor feels empowered, self-confident and also, and it helps in connecting holidaymakers to the rest of the world.

Uganda is an amazing African safari destination, home to the biggest profusion of the endangered mountain gorillas. On a safari in Uganda, expect to enjoy a lot more including hiking experiences, mountaineering, gorilla trekking, game drives, boat cruises, birding, community visits/homestays, golden monkey tracking, and others.

Useful Travel Tips for Solo Travelers to Uganda;

Learn a language besides English

While the official spoken language is English, it is also important that you learn one or two words or more. This is especially the greeting and in so doing, you can connect very well with the local communities.

Manage your cash

Embarking on a solo tour means your responsibilities fall back on you from finances to ensuring that you have a smooth road trip. Try as much as you can to carry some cash and while out, you can a reasonable amount which you feel that you can spend. Avoid carrying huge amounts of cash while in public as such acts can attract robbers thus putting your life at risk.

Do not walk alone at night

Whereas Uganda is notably a safe destination, walking at night alone puts your life at risk of thugs and other wrong elements. Ensure that you reach your destination early enough and settle ready for the next day’s excursions.

Leave your valuables when attended to

Once people notice that you have valuables, there are higher chances are they get attracted to you. Even if you are taking a minute walk to one point, ensure that you leave your valuables with someone to keep till you return. Valuables like your travel documents such as your passport and money should always be with you. Also, try as much as you can not to expose the valuable items.

Go hiking with a colleague

While you may want to try something adventurous say hiking, it is important that you do it with other guests or visitors. You can embark on the hike say the Rwenzori Mountain ranges or Elgon with an expert.

Dress well

Know what to wear for your trip. Respect the local culture and traditions of Uganda. Try as much as you can not to erode the unique cultures and traditions of others. How you dress back in your home country could be completely different from that in Uganda.

Carry essentials

There is a lot to carry but you only need essentials. These should include insect repellents, a first aid kit or medical kit, and a good camera with no flashlight. Other items not to miss out on your packing list include waterproof walking boots, a long-sleeved shirt, a sweater, a rain jacket, a daypack, and toiletries, bottled water, snacks and sunglasses.

Choose the right accommodation

Almost all solo-friendly destinations in Uganda have where you can spend a night. But first, be mindful of where you will retire for the night. Reserve a safari lodge that is close to where your safari activities will begin. Avoid far distant accommodation options as you will find it challenging to catch up with activities that begin early morning.

If you are visiting Uganda for gorilla trekking, be aware that there are 5 sectors each with accommodation options for your overnight stay. These include Rushaga, Nkuringo, Ruhija, Buhoma and Ntebeko. Book a gorilla lodge where you can easily access your gorilla sector to start the long day’s search for mountain gorillas.

Getting around Uganda

The easiest way for you to get around Uganda is by using 4×4 cars –terrain-friendly rides. We have a range of comfortable 4WD rental cars for you to consider for your road trips in Uganda. Choose from our compact 4×4 Toyota Rav4 or Land Cruiser.

The cost of your itinerary: be aware of unavoidable costs like gorilla permits, chimpanzee permits, golden monkey permits and others. The cost of the itinerary varies depending on key factors including the accommodation, cost of transportation, activities and other expenses.