Safari Tips

Visiting Uganda the pearl of Africa is no doubt but an exciting safari waiting to happen, this is your opportunity to see the entire Africa crammed in a country so rich and a people so friendly. It is however wise to take some travel tips with you to ensure an enjoyable tour.

What to wear

Pack some comfortable clothing that is not too tight, as Uganda is in the tropics and the weather is generally hot and humid. Stay away from blues as they tend to attract tsetse flies especially when you are out on a boat ride or game drive. It is pretty sensible to pack long sleeved shirts as they will protect you from severe sun burn and insect bites. Some parts of Uganda can be really cold like in Bwindi, it is smart to pack some light jackets or sweaters but avoid Camouflage because in Uganda it can get you arrested. One more essential to come with is a backpack to carry all your valuables and snacks you will need mostly on the walks.

What Gadgets to bring

Good binoculars and a good camera with a great telephoto lens can cause for a spectacular holiday. Carrying with you a professional type of Camera enhances your experience of watching the pride of lions in the savannah and can be an even greater experience for bird watchers. It is also wise to carry a camera with a bigger memory size; nothing ruins a great photo moment like the signal on your camera going ‘No memory!’ But most importantly do not be so focused on taking pictures to totally miss the Safari.

What Voltage of Plug to bring

The voltage in Uganda is 240 volts, so you will need a plug made in UK. Alternatively you can use a converter plug that you can manually fit. What would be even better is a laptop surge protector. Fluctuations in electrical service are common around Uganda known as blackouts. When power returns, it can come in a rush, rising significantly above standard household voltage levels to burn wires, overwhelm circuits and potentially cause damage to laptops. A surge protector diverts the extra voltage from a power surge to a ground wire; sparing harm to any connected electrical devices.

Medication and Insect repellant

In case you are taking medication, bring it with you and also do not forget to carry with you or to take your Malaria regiment. You will also need insect repellant especially in areas with tsetse flies; you can buy it online or some outdoor specialty shops. I would also advise you carry some antibiotics and Imodium just in case; you do not want to miss your Safari lying in the hotel room. However, consult your doctor or your local clinic about antibiotics and Imodium before taking any.

Mobile Phones

When travelling, it is much better to have an unlocked International Quad cell phone. On arrival you will need to purchase a sim card as the telecommunication companies use sim cards you will have to register that sim card with a passport size photo and ID and registration is free or you will be provided with the company registered sim cards to use temporarily on your tour depending on the availability.

Bring a Friend with you

It is so much cost effective to bring a friend or friends on tour. Solo Safaris cost higher while if you travelled with a friend expenses can be shared as well as experiences and laughter.