Travel Documents for Tourists Visiting Uganda

Uganda, known as the Pearl of Africa, welcomes travelers with its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture. Whether you are trekking mountain gorillas, exploring the River Nile, or enjoying local traditions, knowing the entry requirements will make your trip seamless.

Travelers from East African Community (EAC) Countries

Uganda is part of the East African Community (EAC), which also includes Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Somalia. Citizens of these countries benefit from simplified entry requirements:

Entry Documents: A valid national ID or passport is sufficient.
Visa-Free Entry: No visa is needed for tourism, business, or short visits.

This makes regional travel easy, convenient, and affordable.

Travelers from Non-EAC Countries

International visitors from outside the EAC must follow standard entry procedures:

Passport Requirement: A passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry is required.
Visa Requirement: Most non-EAC travelers need a visa, which can be obtained online before travel.

Uganda Visa Options

Single-Entry Tourist Visa: Valid for 90 days, available online, USD 50.
Multiple-Entry Visa: Valid for 6, 12, or 24 months for frequent visitors, USD 100–200.
East Africa Tourist Visa: Covers Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda, valid for 90 days multiple entry, USD 100.
Transit Visa: For travelers passing through Uganda en route to another country, valid for 7 days, USD 50.
Visa Exemptions: Citizens of certain countries (e.g., Mauritius, Seychelles) can enter Uganda without a visa for specified periods.

Additional Considerations

Yellow Fever Vaccination: Required for all travelers.
Travel Insurance: Recommended for medical coverage, emergencies, and trip protection.

Uganda’s travel policies are designed to be welcoming and accessible, ensuring that visitors from both the region and abroad can enjoy the country safely and comfortably. Having the correct documents will make the start of your Ugandan adventure smooth and stress-free.

How to Access Uganda: Entry Points for Tourists

Uganda is well connected to the region and the world, making it easy for tourists to visit by air, land, or water. Below are the main entry points into the country:

1. By Air

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to enter Uganda.

Entebbe International Airport (EBB) – Located near the capital, Kampala, this is Uganda’s main international gateway. It serves numerous international and regional airlines, including Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, RwandAir, Turkish Airlines, and Emirates.

Other Airports – Secondary airports such as Arua, Gulu, and Kasese mainly serve domestic and some regional flights connecting different parts of Uganda.

2. By Land

Uganda shares borders with Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Tourists traveling overland can use the following border points:

Rwanda – Uganda Border Crossings

Katuna/Gatuna: The main crossing connecting Kigali (Rwanda) and Kabale (Uganda).
Mirama Hills/Kagitumba: Located in southwestern Uganda, connecting with eastern Rwanda. This crossing is popular for travelers coming from Ntungamo or Kabale.
Cyanika: Near Musanze in Rwanda, convenient for travelers heading to southwestern Uganda.

Kenya – Uganda Border Crossings

Malaba: The busiest crossing, connecting western Kenya to eastern Uganda (Tororo).
Busia: Another major crossing linking Uganda with Kenya’s Busia County.

Tanzania – Uganda Border Crossings

Mutukula: Connecting Uganda with Tanzania’s Kyela region, ideal for travelers heading to southern Uganda.

South Sudan – Uganda Border Crossings

Elegu: Key crossing connecting northern Uganda with South Sudan’s Nimule.

Democratic Republic of Congo – Uganda Border Crossings

Mpondwe: Major crossing connecting western Uganda with eastern DRC.
Bwera: Smaller crossing near Kasese, also on the Uganda–DRC border.

Tourists can use these crossings whether traveling by car, bus, or organized tour services.