WHAT TO PACK FOR A UGANDA SAFARI

Packing for a Uganda Safari.

A Uganda safari is one that excites all travelers the moment the final itinerary is drafted, but packing for that successful Uganda Safari can be challenging and time consuming. Tourists to Uganda cannot just wait to have the amazing wildlife encounters with the endangered mountain gorillas, the tree climbing lions, the unique culture, the ever changing landscapes and so many beautiful features.

The commonest question that hits most travelers is what I should pack for my safari in Uganda. Thinking of Uganda as a poor, wild and rugged pearl, most of the travelers would want to pack huge jackets, lots of drugs to prevent themselves from the imagined malaria and so many other assumed threats.

Yes, packing for a Uganda tour can be challenging, the fact that travelers would want to pack a lot yet still fit in the flight weight restrictions perplexes them.

However, something very important to note is that carry light things. A safari in Uganda involves travelling from one destination to the other, a heavy luggage would restrain your trip excitement. And if you are travelling to Uganda, consider only the priorities;-

Pack your travel documents. Traveling to Uganda requires you to have a passport valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. In case a traveler is planning to self-drive while on a Uganda safari, don’t forget to pack your driving license.

Note that a visa is mandatory to everyone entering into the Pearl of Africa. It is important to check all the travel requirements into the country, like the yellow card and other vaccination cards that would be important.

Cash is very important. Uganda being just a developing country, credit machines are not yet here. Also remember that the most interesting attractions are located very deep in the rural areas, some without even electricity.

Money is very important on a Uganda trip to buy unique souvenirs, tips for the guides and the service staff. Some travelers can also pick some local currency from an ATM on arrival at the airport. In Uganda, US dollars are fairly accepted almost everywhere especially in this tourism sector.

Clothing. Remember that a Uganda safari is not in any way a fancy date or anything. Just think of being more comfortable while in the African bush. Having the right clothing for an activity is a smart thing to do, everything becomes comfortable, protected and keeps the traveler well throughout their safari.

Depending on the activities to engage in, balance the clothing, both light and heavy; remember in Uganda it can still rain in summer and also shine in winter. Pack nice hiking boots, gloves, a cap or hut, long sleeved tops and a jacket.

Gadgets. For photography lovers, a camera is very essential on a Uganda safari to capture moments to carry back home. Carry an extra memory card, battery and zoom lenses. Binoculars, a cell phone plus its charger and a journal are also equally important to pack for a successful trip in Uganda.

Important not to leave behind are also toiletries and First aid kit. Even if every lodge and safari vehicle may have a first aid kit, having your own still doesn’t cause any harm. Pack anti malaria tablets, insect repellents, sunscreen, personal toiletries, pain killers and many others that you feel you would need on a safari to see the mountain gorillas in Uganda.

Pack for a purpose. Several tour operators, lodges and camps support some initiatives in the local community. In any case, you can pack school requirements, medical supplies, clothes and other simple donations to the local people living around the visited attractions.

Packing light and right is the best way to go for an amazing and lifetime Uganda safari. Go for it.