Orientation briefing in Uganda

An ancient crossroads for various migrations, Uganda has as many as 65 ethnic groups that speak languages from three of Africa’s four major linguistic families. As early as 1200, fertile soils and regular rainfall in the south fostered the formation of several large, centralized kingdoms, including Buganda, from which the country derives its name. Muslim traders from Egypt reached northern Uganda in the 1820s, and Swahili merchants from the Indian Ocean coast arrived in the south by the 1840s. The area attracted the attention of British explorers seeking the source of the Nile River in the 1860s, and this influence expanded in subsequent decades with the arrival of Christian missionaries and trade agreements; Uganda was declared a British protectorate in 1894. Buganda and other southern kingdoms negotiated agreements with Britain to secure privileges and a level of autonomy that were rare during the colonial period in Africa. Uganda's colonial boundaries grouped together a wide range of ethnic groups with different political systems and cultures, and the disparities between how Britain governed southern and northern areas compounded these differences, complicating efforts to establish a cohesive independent country.

Uganda gained independence in 1962 with one of the more developed economies and one of the strongest education systems in Sub-Saharan Africa, but it descended within a few years into political turmoil and internal conflict that lasted more than two decades. In 1966, Prime Minister Milton OBOTE suspended the constitution and violently deposed President Edward MUTESA, who was also the king of Buganda. Idi AMIN seized power in 1971 through a military coup and led the country into economic ruin and rampant mass atrocities that killed as many as 500,000 civilians. AMIN’s annexation of Tanzanian territory in 1979 provoked Tanzania to invade Uganda, depose AMIN, and install a coalition government. In the aftermath, Uganda continued to experience atrocities, looting, and political instability and had four different heads of state between 1979 and 1980. OBOTE regained the presidency in 1980 through a controversial election that sparked renewed guerrilla warfare, killing as an estimated 300,000 civilians. Gen. Tito OKELLO seized power in a coup in 1985, but his rule was short-lived, with Yoweri MUSEVENI becoming president in 1986 after his insurgency captured the capital. MUSEVENI is widely credited with restoring relative stability and economic growth to Uganda but has resisted calls to leave office. In 2017, parliament removed presidential age limits, making it possible for MUSEVENI to remain in office for life. 

Presidential and Parliamentary elections last took place in Uganda on 15 January 2026. The Presidential Inauguration Ceremony took place on 12 May 2026.

Elections and political events have led to protests and violence, including fatalities. There has also been disruption to the internet and social media.

Political rallies, protests and violent demonstrations in Uganda:

• can happen anywhere without warning
• can cause loss of life and injury
• are more likely around elections

The police have used tear gas, rubber bullets and live ammunition to disperse demonstrators. Avoid all demonstrations and rallies where possible.

Red and yellow are strongly associated with political parties in Uganda. Consider not wearing these colours around political events.  

If you get caught up in a political demonstration:

• remain calm and try to move away from the area by the safest possible route
• lock the doors and shut the windows if you’re in a vehicle
• stay inside if you’re in your accommodation and you think leaving is threatening or unsafe

Make sure you’re familiar with the security procedures at your accommodation.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and regional risks advice.

Terrorism   

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.    

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.         

 Terrorism in Uganda

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Uganda.   

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in major cities and places frequented by foreign nationals and tourists, such as:

• hotels
• diplomatic premises
• transport hubs
• restaurants and bars
• places of worship
• shopping centres
• major gatherings such as sporting or religious events
• government buildings
• security installations such as police stations
• national parks

Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities. The Uganda Police Force regularly issues alerts, particularly around public holidays or religious events. 

Consider whether locations that you visit have effective security arrangements in place, like bag searches, physical security and guards. Avoid large gatherings of any kind in Uganda as these may be targets for an attack.

Previous terrorist attacks and disrupted attacks in Uganda have targeted the security forces, places where football matches were being viewed, restaurants, buses, schools, churches, national parks and government buildings.

There have been a series of terrorist attacks in areas of western Uganda near to the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), including in national parks. You should exercise particular caution in these areas and follow the advice of local authorities. Terrorist attacks have also occurred in other parts of the country, including Kampala.

Recent significant attacks include: 

• in December 2023, 10 people were killed in an attack on a bar and a farm in Kyabandara, and a further 3 people in an attack in Nyabitusi, in Kamwenge district near to Kibale forest
• in October 2023, 2 tourists and their driver were killed by terrorists in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• in June 2023, 42 people were killed in an attack on a school in Mpondwe, Kasese District, western Uganda, close to the border with the DRC

Political situation

Presidential and Parliamentary elections last took place in Uganda on 15 January 2026. The Presidential Inauguration Ceremony took place on 12 May 2026.

Elections and political events have led to protests and violence, including fatalities. There has also been disruption to the internet and social media.

Political rallies, protests and violent demonstrations in Uganda:

• can happen anywhere without warning
• can cause loss of life and injury
• are more likely around elections

The police have used tear gas, rubber bullets and live ammunition to disperse demonstrators. Avoid all demonstrations and rallies where possible.

Red and yellow are strongly associated with political parties in Uganda. Consider not wearing these colours around political events.  

If you get caught up in a political demonstration:

• remain calm and try to move away from the area by the safest possible route
• lock the doors and shut the windows if you’re in a vehicle
• stay inside if you’re in your accommodation and you think leaving is threatening or unsafe

Make sure you’re familiar with the security procedures at your accommodation.

Crime

Criminals may target tourists who show signs of wealth.

Organised crime groups operate in Uganda. However, criminal kidnaps and targeted armed assaults are unlikely to be directed at tourists.

Protecting yourself and your belongings

You can reduce the risk of being followed and pickpocketed or mugged by:

• not carrying large amounts of cash
• using arranged transport to withdraw cash
• using indoor ATMs
• not wearing expensive-looking jewellery or watches
• taking care of your passport
• not walking after dark

Vehicle crime

Criminals may steal from cars and taxis stopped in traffic. Keep car doors locked and windows shut when driving in towns. Do not leave luggage or valuables in parked vehicles. Do not resist if armed criminals stop you.

Foreign nationals using motorbike taxis (‘boda-bodas’) have been mugged. Some of these incidents have involved violence and the use of weapons.

Food and drink spiking

Travellers have been drugged and robbed on public transport and in bars. Do not accept food and drink from strangers.

Methanol poisoning

There has been an increase in cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in popular travel destinations around the world.

Even small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell. See Travel Aware Spiking and methanol poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks. 

Seek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.

Scams

Scammers may target foreign visitors and residents. Be wary of strangers who:

• approach you or your accommodation
• contact you by phone asking for personal information or financial help

Laws and cultural differences

National cleaning day 

The  final Saturday of each month, between 7 and 10 am, is a mandatory and nationwide cleaning day.

According to Government of Uganda guidance, Ugandans are expected to clean homes, neighbourhoods, markets, schools, health facilities, places of worship, roads, drainage channels and other public spaces. Foreigners are not the intended participants but may be affected.   

During this time, all businesses must close and all non-essential movement of people and vehicles is prohibited. There are exemptions for tourists, international travellers, medical staff, state security actors and journalists. Patients seeking medical attention are allowed to travel to health facilities. Cross border traffic is also exempt.

The Ugandan police will enforce the travel restrictions. Anyone travelling under one of the exemptions may be required to identify themselves and explain their circumstances to police officers.  

It is unclear how widely the restrictions are enforced and what the restrictions mean for UK travellers, including for hotel and airport access. Contact your travel provider for more information.

Personal ID

Officials may stop you and ask for ID. Always carry a copy of the photo page of your passport.

Wearing military-style clothing

It is illegal for anyone, including children, to dress in military-style clothing. This includes clothing with marks, badges or symbols and accessories associated with the Ugandan military, camouflage clothing and red berets. The offence carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment when convicted.

Helping children on Kampala’s streets

It is illegal and punishable by a fine and a possible prison sentence to offer money, food or clothing to children living on the streets in Kampala.

Smoking and e-cigarette bans

It is illegal to smoke in:

• public places
• workplaces
• transport
• outdoors if you’re within 50 metres of a public building

Electronic cigarettes and shisha (water-pipe tobacco) are illegal. There are penalties including fines and prison sentences.

Illegal drug penalties

Penalties for illegal drug possession and illegal drug trafficking are severe. The maximum sentence is 20 years for possession and life imprisonment for trafficking.

Using cameras in secure areas

It is forbidden to take photos of military, official or diplomatic sites. This includes Owen Falls Dam at the source of the Nile near Jinja.

If you are taking photographs of people, ask their permission first.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Uganda.

In May 2023, Uganda introduced the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023. This act introduces long prison sentences, and the death penalty in some cases, for same-sex sexual activity. There are also severe penalties for promoting LGBT+ rights.

Sexual activity with someone of the same sex carries the punishment of life imprisonment.

Offences classed as ’aggravated homosexuality’ carry a sentence up to the death penalty (though the death penalty has not been implemented for civilians in Uganda since 1999). ‘Aggravated homosexuality’ is defined as sexual activity with someone of the same sex who is:

• a person aged 17 or under
• a person aged 75 or above
• a relative or someone under your care
• disabled or suffering from mental health issues
• a person who is unconscious or under the influence of medicine or other substances that impair their judgement
• under duress or misrepresentation
• threatened or intimidated

A person who has a previous conviction of homosexuality or related offences can be charged with aggravated homosexuality for subsequent offences.

Promoting or supporting homosexuality carries up to a 20-year prison sentence. This includes, but is not limited to:

• encouraging or persuading someone to perform a same-sex sexual act or anything that is an offence under the act
• publishing, printing, broadcasting by any means, information that promotes or encourages homosexuality
• providing financial or other support that encourages homosexuality or the normalisation of acts prohibited by the act

The law could affect those who are exercising their freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly and association, to show support for LGBT+ people and rights.

Anti-LGBT+ rhetoric by religious leaders, politicians, government officials and the local media can incite homophobia against the LGBT+ community.

LGBT+ people or those who are perceived to be LGBT+ may be at greater risk of harassment, imprisonment, blackmail and violence from people who view the law as justification for attacks.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It’s illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade its parts without a licence. If you’re caught buying or trafficking such goods you might be prosecuted and get a prison sentence or a fine.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Uganda, see information on driving abroad.

You can drive in Uganda with a UK driving licence for up to 3 months. For a longer period, you must get a Ugandan driving licence or a 1949 international driving permit (IDP). You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

Travelling by road can be hazardous, particularly outside the main cities. Driving standards are poor and the accident rate is high. At night, other road users may be driving without lights and livestock roam across the roads. Accidents regularly happen on the Jinja-Kampala and the Kampala-Masaka roads.

Speeding is illegal in Uganda and the police enforce speed limit laws. You could get a fine, a prison sentence or both if caught speeding.

Avoid travelling outside of the main towns after dark, except on the roads between Kampala and Entebbe International Airport.

Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and stocked with items you might need in case of a breakdown or other incidents.

Public transport

There have been serious accidents involving Ugandan long-distance bus services. These include:

• buses between Kampala and other towns in Uganda
• international services to Nairobi, Kigali and Dar es Salaam

Criminals have robbed overnight buses after posing as passengers or blocking the road.

Avoid using:

• matatus (minibus taxis following a particular route)
• boda-bodas (motorbike taxis)

Matatus and boda-bodas are cheap, but they do not meet UK safety standards. They are generally in poor condition, badly driven and often do not have proper insurance. Accidents are common and can be fatal.

Boat travel

Ferry accidents on Lake Albert and Lake Victoria have killed large numbers of passengers in recent years. Overloading of passengers and goods is often the cause.

You should:

• use a reputable ferry company
• not get on a ferry if it appears overloaded or unseaworthy
• learn the emergency procedures on board
• note the location of life jackets and emergency exits

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Flooding

Localised flooding and landslides are common, particularly during the rainy seasons from March to May and October to November.

Earthquakes

Uganda is in an earthquake zone. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

This section has safety advice for regions of Uganda. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

Kampala

Kampala is a busy capital, take the same precautions as you would in the UK. See Safety and Security for general risks. 

In June 2025, two security operations took place in Kampala. On 3 June, there was an explosion near the Catholic Basilica in the Munyonyo area. On 22 June, security forces killed one person in a security operation in Kalerwe Market.

Uganda-DRC border

Western Uganda

The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a militant group with links to Daesh, may target tourists and foreign nationals near the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). There have been several terrorist attacks in western Uganda, especially around the Bwera border crossing. See Terrorism.

Uganda and the DRC conduct joint military action against the ADF near parts of the Ugandan border, in North Kivu and Ituri provinces of eastern DRC. Ugandan troops are present on both sides of the border as part of the operations.

Border crossing points could close at short notice.

There is also a risk of banditry and localised violence near the Uganda-DRC border. There were co-ordinated attacks by local armed men against police and army installations in Kasese and Bundibugyo in November 2025, resulting in multiple deaths including of one civilian. Local authorities deployed security forces to the areas and multiple suspects were arrested. While tourists and foreign nationals were not specifically targeted, the attacks were close to tourist areas. If you plan to visit these areas, you should remain vigilant, exercise caution, and follow the advice of local security agencies.

FCDO advises against all travel to the DRC provinces that border Uganda. See DRC travel advice.

South-west Uganda

The provinces of DRC bordering south-west Uganda have a history of instability and violent conflict and this can flare up with little notice. FCDO advises against all travel to these DRC provinces. There is a potential for some spillover into Uganda. Take care when travelling in the area.

There are periodic clashes between DRC government forces and armed groups in the DRC close to the Ugandan border. The M23 armed group controls the Bunagana and the Kitagoma-Buszana border crossings in Kisoro district on the DRC side of the border. If you are in this area, keep your security situation under constant review.

Border crossing points have been temporarily suspended in the past following clashes, and could be closed again at short notice.

National parks near DRC and Rwanda

Use reputable, registered tour operators and contact the Ugandan Wildlife Authority (UWA) for up-to-date advice and information before you travel. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park are in the extreme south-west of Uganda near the borders with DRC and Rwanda. It’s routine practice for security personnel to accompany tourists on gorilla-tracking visits in this area.

Some gorilla trekking operators cross into DRC. Avoid taking these tours. FCDO advises against all travel to the provinces of DRC that border Uganda, including Virunga National Park.

Uganda-South Sudan border

Be extra cautious near the Uganda-South Sudan border. FCDO advises against all travel to South Sudan. See South Sudan travel advice.

North-east Uganda

There is an increased security presence in north-east Uganda in the Karamoja sub-region (districts of Kaabong, Kotido, Abim, Moroto and Nakapiripirit) due to cattle theft. Military and civilians have been killed during security operations.

Armed raids to steal cattle and robberies related to cattle trading, some resulting in killings, have been reported in Karamoja. There have also been robberies that have resulted in multiple killings in districts that neighbour Karamoja in the Teso and Acholi sub-regions. The attackers do not usually target foreign nationals, but you should always:

• stay alert
• be cautious
• avoid travel at night

Parts of the north-east are likely to experience flooding during the rainy seasons, from March to May and October to November. Monitor local media and only use suitably equipped 4-wheel-drive vehicles.

Eastern Uganda

Travel to eastern Uganda is largely trouble-free, but during heavy rains there is a risk of landslides, particularly in Bulucheke sub-county in Bududa District near Mount Elgon National Park, a popular tourist destination.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 999 and ask for an ambulance.

Medical help at the scene of an accident is likely to be limited, particularly outside Kampala.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest recommended vaccines for Uganda
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Uganda, including:

• ebola
• malaria
• yellow fever
• mpox
• Marburg Virus Disease

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Uganda. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

Ebola

There are occasional Ebola outbreaks in Uganda. On 27 August 2026, the World Health Organisation declared the Uganda Ebola outbreak over. The outbreak in neighbouring DRC continues and the risk of transmission into Uganda remains. Government of Uganda is continuing to implement precautions to reduce this risk, particularly in response to reported Ebola cases in the region among individuals who transited Uganda. You may experience screening and other precautionary measures at entry points, including Entebbe Airport. See the Ministry of Health’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for more details.

TravelHealthPro has information on Ebola Disease in Uganda and general information on Ebola and similar diseases. Some countries have heightened health screening for travellers from Uganda. Check entry requirements for the country you’re travelling to or transiting.

UK Health Security Agency has Ebola information for humanitarian or healthcare workers.

Drinking water

Only use boiled or bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Avoid eating food prepared by unlicensed vendors or if you are concerned about kitchen hygiene. See food and water hygiene.

If you are staying in Uganda for a long time, store basic provisions such as drinking water and non-perishable foods at your accommodation, in case of supply problems.

HIV and AIDS

UNAIDS estimate that around 1,400,000 adults aged 15 or over in Uganda are living with HIV. Read more about precautions and how to avoid exposure to HIV or AIDS.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Uganda

Medical facilities in Uganda are limited, especially outside Kampala. Many popular tourist attractions have poor medical facilities. If you are seriously ill or have an accident, you may need an air ambulance. Make sure you have appropriate travel insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Uganda where some staff will speak English. 

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.