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UGANDA Currency
& Money:
Currency = The Ugandan Shilling
There are some Exchange Bureaus in the larger towns and banks where you can change money and Traveller's
Cheques. Some ATM's dispense cash on VISA, but the rate is often low and the banking costs high.
You will receive a better exchange for higher value cash denominations,
i.e. US$50's and 100's. You can often pay for camping fees, and
other services, in foreign currency, but the rate is lower than at a
Bureau (if you can find one). Visas:
Required by all. Most visitors can obtain them at the border on
arrival at a cost of US$30.00 per person. Make sure your passport is stamped at your point of entry and
the visa you are issued is for more time than you intend staying in the
country. If you have a breakdown you don't need your visa expiring
to add to your problems. Language:
English is widely spoken. Climate:
The weather is tropical; lots of heat and humidity!! There are two main rainy seasons;
but is often rains everyday for a short while. Accommodation:
Backpackers and campers are reasonably well catered for, although there
is sometimes not much choice. A number
of up-market hotels and lodges can be found in the cities and at tourist spots. Things
to consider:
Road Usage Permit/Road Tax: Payable by all foreign registered
vehicles in local currenvy. You can change money at the border
with people identified in coloured overalls and wearing identification
badges. They offer a fair rate, but bargain for a better rate.
Road Blocks: There are many roadblocks; they have strips
of nails across the road, so don't try to ignore a signal to stop!
We found the Police very friendly, and when they saw we were tourists,
we were waved through with a smile.
Price of Diesel: As at September 2005 the price was at about
US$1.10 per litre.
Road conditions: Some of the main roads are good with
the occasional pothole just to remind you that you are in Africa!
But many are terrible!! The 80km stretch before Jinga from the
border is really bad, while the gravel road to Kisoro is steep, slippery
and busy with large trucks carrying potatoes. Check locally first
for the latest conditions. There are few road signs, and many are
confusing! Get local advice, a good map and a GPS.
Third-party & Carnets: Irrespective of what type of
third-party cover you have, the Ugandans will likely make you buy local
insurance. It's a bit of a circus, but the authorities are
friendly and helpful and will guide you through the process; it may just
take a bit of time! You MUST have a Carnet. Places
we stayed:
| Place |
Comments |
Cost |
| Nile River Explorers,
Jinga |
This campsite is
dedicated to river rafters and the overland trucks. It's
noisy and busy, but we found it vibrant and interesting (but camp
as far from the bar as possible!!) There is a good menu with
reasonably priced food. The ablutions are passable, but the
showers only have cold water. Dorms and private chalets are
available. |
US$4.00 per person per
night for camping |
| Red Chilli Campsite,
Kampala |
Another campsite
primarily for the overland tour groups, but with space for private
overlanders. The ablutions were okay with limited hot
showers. Dorms and private rooms are available, with free
internet access (if you can get onto a machine and the power is
not off!) A limited food menu is available at reasonable
prices. |
US$4.00 per person per
night for camping |
| Virunga Campsite, Kisoro |
A dump - but there is
not too much option! The long-drop toilets are disgusting
and there is limited hot water. The campsite is muddy and
small, with the rooms bare, but with clean linen. |
US$15.00 for a room for
two people - no en-suite facilities or meals included |
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