+256 705 905215 / +256 414 671093 info@milelesafarisuganda.com
+256 705 905215 / +256 414 671093 info@milelesafarisuganda.com

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the frequent questions we get from clients as they prepare for their Uganda or Rwanda safari.

Which airlines access

Uganda
Uganda’s Entebbe International Airport can be reached by the following airlines: Egypt Air, Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, Kenya Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Brussels Airlines, South African Airways, Fast Jet, Fly Dubai, RwandAir among others.
Rwanda
Kigali International Airport, the following: RwandAir, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Kenya Airways, Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways and Coastal Aviation.

Can I fly internally?

Uganda
Yes you can fly internally while on safari in Uganda, there are internal scheduled flights to some of the safari destinations and where unavailable there are charter flights to most of the safari destinations. Let us know you prefer flights instead of driving or a mix of both.
Rwanda
Yes you can fly internally in Rwanda by charter flights to most of the safari destinations or helicopter with Akagera Aviation.

Is Uganda/Rwanda safe?

Generally, the two countries are safe but occasional security issues may arise as in any other country therefore basic precautions should be taken. Do not leave bags or money unattended to – avoid displaying expensive jewelry.

Do you provide Travel Insurance?

Milele Safaris Uganda does not provide travel insurance to clients. It’s the responsibility of the Agent/Client – All clients must have an adequate insurance for the duration of the tour, which should include evacuation cover in case of an emergency.

Is Kampala and Kigali safe cities for tourists?

They are both some of the safest capital cities in Africa – but again do not leave valuables unattended. Ask your driver guide where unsure.

Are vaccinations required for my safari tour?

There are a number of vaccinations recommended and/or required. The government of Uganda and Rwanda requires proof of yellow fever vaccination as of 2016. Recommended immunizations against DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio) and Hepatitis A, meningitis, tetanus and typhoid.
Seek advice from your home country on vaccination and inoculation requirements

What is the road network like?

Uganda
The main roads in Uganda are tarmacked but secondary roads vary in quality. Be prepared for long and sometimes bumpy car rides on African dirty (brownmatt) roads.
Rwanda
The roads in Rwanda connecting the various tourist attractions are mostly tarmacked except a small stretch while connecting to Akagera national park.

Is tap water safe for drinking in Uganda and Rwanda?

Tap water is not suitable for drinking whether at the lodge or anywhere, use bottled water, which is available in your safari car and at accommodations.

Do I need a visa to enter Uganda and Rwanda?

Uganda
You are required to purchase a visa before you enter Uganda. Single entry tourist visas (usually three month) are available on arrival at Entebbe airport priced for USD $50 and at the land borders – please state clearly that you require three months or else you can be given two weeks but they should be applied for online before your travel.
A single East African visa has been introduced for Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda costing $100. Your passport must have a minimum six months validity remaining. Contact the airline or your travel agent for more information.
Uganda follows a policy of reciprocity (if your Country requires a Visa for Ugandans to enter, Uganda will impose the same). In case of any changes in Visa regulations, you will be informed.
Rwanda
Foreign Nationals wishing to obtain a Rwandan Visa, submit their applications to Rwandan Diplomatic Missions of their Country of residence for processing.
In case where there is no Diplomatic Mission/ consulate, foreign nationals request for a visa acceptance letter online, which will be presented on arrival to obtain a visa upon payment of visa fee.
In view of bilateral agreements, nationals of the following Countries may visit Rwanda without a visa for a period up to 90 days: Hong Kong, Philippines, Mauritius, Singapore, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
A single East African visa has been introduced for Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda costing $100. Your passport must have a minimum six months validity remaining. Contact the airline or your travel agent for more information.

Do I need to carry medication?

Please bring all personal medications required. Medical services and facilities are basic.
You are advised to take malaria ‘prophylactics’ (prevention medication) in addition to carrying a mosquito repellent. Be sure to use the mosquito nets, which are provided at your place of accommodation. Consult your doctor before traveling for more information and you should always declare to us any health issues so at to give you the best care and activities suitable for your health.
Clients must be fit and healthy to undertake adventurous activities such as mountaineering and hiking, gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking, white-water rafting, canoeing, and kayaking may pose additional risks and should be undertaken with care and caution.

Can I use my ATM card or credit card in Uganda or Rwanda?

Uganda:

You can use ATM and Visa credit cards for money withdrawal in Uganda but there is a limit to how much you can withdraw per day. The banks are available in major towns but it may be difficult once you start your safari. You may wish to alert your bank before using your card abroad to avoid it being blocked.
Some establishments do not accept credit cards for payments and in cases where they are accepted, it may attract 5 – 10% additional charges.
Traveler’s cheques are no longer accepted in Uganda.

Rwanda:

You can use ATM and Visa credit cards for money withdrawal in Rwanda but there is a limit to how much you can withdraw per day. Most establishments accept credit cards for payments. You may wish to alert your bank before using your card abroad to avoid it being blocked.
Is MasterCard accepted?
Very few places in Uganda accept MasterCard. Consider bringing cash, which you can change, upon arrival. Banks and Forex bureaus will exchange cash. Please note: US dollars bills issued before 1999 are NOT accepted in Uganda and Rwanda. Bills below 2006 or small denomination dollar bills (anything less than a USD 50 bill) attracts a lower exchange rate. Poor quality foreign currency notes may be rejected. Please ensure you bring with you new or excellent condition notes with no stains or tears.

What is the currency in

Uganda
The currency in Uganda is the Uganda Shilling, which is issued in denominations of 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000 and 50,000 Uganda Shillings notes. Coins are available for smaller denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 shillings.
Rwanda
The currency in Rwanda is the Rwandan Francs, which is issued in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000 Rwandan Francs notes. Coins are available for smaller denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 francs.

How do you deal with tipping?

Tipping in Uganda and Rwanda is usually according to level of service and by the choice of the and there are no fixed rates. Salaries are generally low in both countries and tips are highly appreciated. On average tips are in the rage of: 5-10% in restaurants; USD 5-10 per day, per client for safari driver/guides and Ranger Guides; USD 5 per day for porters on mountaineering/hiking safaris and USD 3-5 for Forest Walk guides.
Remember that tips are very personal and ultimately you decide how much you want to tip.

What should I wear when gorilla trekking?

We recommend: lightweight rain jacket, a warm jacket for overcast days and evening, long-sleeved shirt and trousers, waterproof walking boots, leather gardening type gloves, sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, comfortable day pack for carrying water and minimum amount of personal items. In case of sighting Gorillas, no flash photography is allowed and fast film is therefore recommended.

What items should I bring for my safari?

General: Antiseptic hand wash, Comfortable day Pack for carrying water and some personal items, Sunscreen, Flashlight, Insect repellent, Water proof bags to protect equipment, Electric plug adapters for 240 volts AC 50 Hz – UK style square-pin in plugs are used
Clothing: It is preferable for you to use soft luggage as space in vehicles is limited. Good walking shoes / boots, Sun hat or cap, Sandals or other light shoes, Waterproof jacket, Lighter clothing with layers for evening, Warm clothing for mountainous regions, waterproof walking boots, Sunglasses, Swimsuit.
Equipment: Binoculars(water proof ones), Cameras, changes of batteries, several 1GB cards instead of one large one to avoid losing all your photos in case something goes wrong.

What should I know about photography?

No photographs of, or near, military buildings or soldiers are allowed. It is polite to ask people before taking their photographs. Also in national parks no flash lights during gorilla photography and if you are doing commercial photography or videography for either TVs or other companies there are charges.
When photographing people you should always ask for consent. You can establish a rapport with the people and this is why we encourage our guides to always teach you some words of greeting and addressing people or ask your guide to help you and request the person to allow you take their pictures.

How long in advance do I need to book my safari?

If your safari includes gorilla and chimpanzee trekking consider booking as far in advance as possible – recommended is 3 months. The gorilla and chimpanzee permits are booked and paid for at the same time.

How can I pay for my safari?

Most of our clients pay by wire transfers or credit card. Bank details are available upon request. Credit card payments can be made after approval, but will incur a 4% surcharge.
Note that availability of accommodation and permits is not guaranteed until Milele Safaris Uganda officially confirms the safari. Accommodation, permit, and activity reservations will be made as soon as payment has been received on our account.
Please note that all bank charges are at the expense of the client.

What is the Safari accommodation like?

We will work towards finding the perfect accommodation for your needs. The majority of safari lodges and hotels are small-scale, offering a unique experience with few rooms.
The three categories are mainly; budget, mid-range or Upmarket.
Budget accommodation may be simple and basic rooms, bandas or tents, with double/twin beds and mosquito nets when necessary. You may have to share bathroom facilities, as private bathrooms are not always available. Electricity and piped/mains water supply may not always be available. Some remote locations may have ‘long-drop’ or compost (Eco) toilets.
Mid-range or Upmarket accommodation offer comfortable rooms or furnished safari tents with a private bathroom. Flush toilets and hot and cold running water are available.

What vehicles does Milele Safaris Uganda use for safaris?

Milele Safaris Uganda provides ‘pop-up roof’ 4WD safari vehicles for game viewing. The 4WD are either minibuses, coaster buses or Land cruisers where we ensure that everybody has a window seat to enjoy the best views. We limit the number in minibus to seven while for land cruiser some carry seven, five, and three depending on size, to allow plenty of legroom and luggage storage.
I am traveling on my own. Can I book my safari with Milele Safaris Uganda?
Solo travelers are welcome but please note that the cost of the safari will generally be higher than if you joined a group. We shall advise in case of scheduled safaris but group dynamics will be at play.

How many people are in your group safaris?

We offer tailor-made safaris for any number of participants. Considering the sitting arrangement concerning the cars – the maximum is 9 people for minibus but for everyone to have a window seat we recommend 7. For Land cruisers they range from 3 – 7 individuals.

What other expenses should I expect after quoted safari costs?

Unless otherwise stated, tour prices quoted include; airport/hotel transfers, transport with fuel and driver/guide, accommodation, drinking water in safari vehicle, National Park and activity fees associated with your itinerary.
The quoted price does not include; airfare to/from Uganda, Visa fees if applicable, optional activities not included in the itinerary, refreshments and beverages (between meal snacks, alcohol, other refreshments), personal items (porterage, telephone calls and souvenirs), tips and gratuities.
In most cases, we will specify the extra charge of optional activities in your itinerary. If it is not clear to you, please contact us so we can confirm any additional fee(s).

Do you cater for a special dietary person?

We take care of your dietary needs as far as the hotels cooperate which is usually positive when you let us know in advance to make the necessary arrangements with the different lodges in your itinerary. Make sure that your driver-guide contacts the reception on arrival at the lodge.

What’s the best time of year to come to visit?

There is no bad time of year to visit Uganda or Rwanda. Even during the rainy seasons (April-May and October – November) it may rain for a short while before the sun shines again.

Do the drivers speak English?

Yes but if you require drivers or guides who speak other international languages, we can organize for German, Spanish, Chinese speaking guide or translator, but you are required to inform us at the time of inquiry.

How much time should I expect to spend in the vehicle in any one day?

Uganda
The longest day of travel is for a three-day gorilla tour and this can be up to eight/nine hours in a vehicle. During this journey several stops will be made, including a visit to the Equator, a stop for lunch, and other stops for other facilities. Most itineraries will not require any more than five hours in a vehicle in one day – various stops are made to ensure your comfort.
Rwanda
The longest day of travel is for a drive for chimpanzee tour to Nyungwe forest from Kigali City and this can be up to 6 hours in a vehicle. During this journey, several stops will be made, including a stop for lunch, national museum, and or Kings Palace. Most itineraries will not require any more than three hours in a vehicle in one day.

How can I communicate home while on safari?

International telephone calls are made from most areas in Uganda and Rwanda and local SIM cards can be purchased. International roaming facilities are available.
Internet services are widely available at internet cafes, although the quality and speed of the connection varies. Some lodges have Wi-Fi and we ensure you have Wi-Fi coverage in the vehicle.

Featured Gorilla Safaris

Have a Question?

Do not hesitage to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.

+256 705 905215
+256 414 671093

info@milelesafarisuganda.com