Frequently Asked Questions About Uganda
General FAQs for Uganda
What is the capital of Uganda?
The capital of Uganda is Kampala. The city is located in the south central part of the country on the shores of Lake Victoria, and has a population of over 1.5 million people. Kampala is the economic and administrative heart of Uganda, and is home to a number of important government buildings and institutions, as well as a thriving business and commercial sector. The city is also a popular tourist destination, with a number of attractions including the Uganda Museum, the Kampala Zoo, and the Ngong Hills.
What currency is used in Uganda?
The currency of Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). One shilling is divided into 100 cents. The shilling is issued by the Bank of Uganda, and coins and notes come in a variety of denominations. Coins are available in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cent denominations, as well as 1, 2, and 5 shilling denominations. Notes come in 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 shilling denominations. The 1000 shilling note is the highest denomination currently in circulation.
What languages are spoken in Uganda?
The official language of Uganda is English, however a number of other languages are also spoken throughout the country. These include Luganda, Swahili, Runyakitara, Acholi, and Lango. There are also a number of local dialects that are spoken in different parts of Uganda.
What is the best time to visit Uganda?
The best time to visit Uganda depends on what you hope to see and do during your trip. The dry season, which runs from December to February, is the best time to see wildlife as animals congregate around water sources. The wet season, from March to May, is the best time for bird watching. gorillas can be seen year-round, but visibility is often better during the dry season.
How many days do you need for a trip to Uganda?
How long you spend in Uganda will depend on your interests and what you hope to see and do during your trip. A minimum of three days is needed to explore Kampala and its surroundings, while a week or more is necessary to venture out into the countryside. If your main interest is seeing gorillas, then a two or three day trip to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest will suffice. However, if you want to see a variety of wildlife and landscapes, then a longer trip of 10 days or more is recommended.
What are the emergency numbers in Uganda?
In case of emergency, the best number to call in Uganda is 999. This is the number for the Uganda Police Force. Other useful numbers include 100 for the Fire Brigade, and 102 for Ambulance Services. For non-emergency assistance, you can also try calling the Tourist Police on 0800 200 600.
Places FAQs For Uganda
What are the best places to visit in Uganda?
Some of the best places to visit in Uganda include Kampala, Entebbe, Jinja, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Murchison Falls National Park, and Lake Mburo National Park. These are just a few of the many amazing places that Uganda has to offer.
What is the best way to get around in Uganda?
The best way to get around Uganda is by car. This allows you the freedom to explore at your own pace and makes it easy to get to off-the-beaten-track destinations. You can either rent a car or hire a driver, depending on your preferences. Another option is to take a bus or minibus, however this can be more challenging as timetables are often unreliable and journeys can be crowded. Alternatively, you can fly between major cities with one of the many domestic airlines that operate in Uganda.
Budget FAQs For Uganda
How much will the trip to Uganda cost?
The cost of a trip to Uganda will vary depending on your itinerary and travel style. A basic budget for a week-long trip including accommodation, food, transport, and activities would be around $1,500 per person. However, if you are planning to stay in luxury accommodations and do a lot of safari touring, then your budget will be significantly higher.
How much does a meal cost in Uganda?
A meal in Uganda will cost you between $2 and $10, depending on where you eat. A simple meal of rice and beans can be found for as little as $2, while a more elaborate meal with meat or fish will cost around $10. If you are eating out at a restaurant, then you can expect to pay more, especially if you are ordering alcoholic beverages.
How much does accommodation cost in Uganda?
Accommodation in Uganda will cost you between $10 and $100 per night, depending on the type of accommodation you choose. A basic room in a budget hotel can be found for as little as $10, while a luxury suite in a 5-star hotel will cost around $100. There are also many options in between these two extremes, so you can find accommodation to suit your budget and preferences.
What is the cheapest time to visit Uganda?
The cheapest time to visit Uganda is during the wet season, which runs from April to November. This is the low season for tourism, so you can find good deals on accommodation and activities. However, keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable during this time of year and some roads may be impassable due to flooding.
Culture FAQs For Uganda
How are the people in Uganda?
The people of Uganda are generally very friendly and welcoming. However, as with any country, there are always a few bad apples. Be sure to use common sense when travelling and you will likely have a great experience.
What are the popular dishes in Uganda?
There are a few popular dishes in Uganda, including matoke (a dish made with plantains), ugali (a cornmeal porridge), and pilau (a rice dish). These dishes are often served with a side of beans or vegetables. There is also a wide variety of street food available, such as samosas, kebabs, and fried plantains.
Which sports are popular in Uganda?
Football (soccer) is by far the most popular sport in Uganda. However, other sports such as basketball, cricket, and rugby are also popular.
What are the common religions in Uganda?
The two most common religions in Uganda are Christianity and Islam. However, there is a small minority of people who practice traditional African religions. It is important to be respectful of all religions when visiting Uganda.
What are the popular festivals celebrated in Uganda?
There are a few popular festivals celebrated in Uganda, including the Kampala International Jazz Festival, the Lake Victoria Marathon, and the Lango Fishing Festival. These festivals are a great way to experience the culture of Uganda.
What souvenirs to buy from Uganda?
Some popular souvenirs to buy from Uganda include wood carvings, drums, and baskets. You can also find a variety of African-themed items such as keychains, magnets, and t-shirts.