|
SAFETY AND SECURITY:
We
have built our activities around safety and security
in all our activities. A systematic risk assessments
and contingency partnership are an essential part of
our Kigezi Tours. To enrich our guest’s health and
safety, professional medical personnel is always on
call specifically to pay special attention to the
health conditions and facilities of our visitors. We
have reliable partnership with
AAR
Health Services and International Hospital in Kampala
[Uganda] where in case of any health emergency for our
guests and volunteers can be handled.
Explore, ( stay and help) in this wonderful part of
the world - from the cities to Scenic villages of
Kabale, Kisoro and Kanungu, tropical forests to Lake
Victoria, the River Nile, beautiful water falls, wild
life and safari parks welcoming hospitable people you
probably had never met elsewhere. Don’t miss an
exciting gorilla dance at Nkuringo cultural centre
This is up to date travel security advice for
travelers to Uganda and Rwanda (East Africa) Uganda
and Rwanda are generally safe destinations for
tourists, and visitors for Volunteering business and
pleasure. However in situations that signal potential
risk you need to take care just the way you would be
visiting say a major city street in your country.
National Parks are well protected where necessary by
armed guards and Rangers.
Over the last few years the number of people visiting
Uganda and Rwanda has increased tremendously and
travel to all areas usually visited by travelers is
normal.
The political situation in the country remains normal.
The security on Uganda's Western border with the DRC
and Rwanda remains stable and travel to the Mgahinga
and Bwindi Gorilla parks, the Rwenzoris, Queen
Elizabeth, Kibale National Parks and Semliki Reserve
continues normally.
In the North, Murchison Falls has remained stable
whereas there was an incident in the area in late
2005; The Government has taken a series of steps to
safeguard security. Efforts are in high gear to secure
peace agreement with LRA rebels.
The LRA situation does not affect travel to and stay
in Western Uganda. In the East travel to Sipi Falls
and Mount Elgon continues normally.
However, like any other city(s) be quite awake when
walking around carrying anything of value. As in all
countries petty theft, including pickpockets is around
in some places. Do not walk around at night unescorted
before seeking advice. If possible, never leave your
vehicle unattended and never change money on the
streets. This is less of a problem in the rural areas.
Carry minimum amounts of cash and keep it hidden or in
a money belt, if possible. Secure your belongings such
as passport or airline tickets and other valuables and
documents; use safe deposit boxes where available. For
the most part, however, Ugandans and Rwandans are very
friendly and helpful. If in doubt seek local advice.
For specific questions on current security conditions
please contact us.
LIABILITY WAIVER:
This information is
given in good faith and Kigezi Tours or our staff,
jointly or individually, cannot accept any liability
for any errors or omissions, injury, loss or damage
arising in respect of any statement contained herein.
Volunteers and other guests should also consult their
government–s consular advice.
Always Contact us
for updates before your trip departure.
HEALTH TIPS:
Visitors from or passing through a yellow fever and
cholera zone (most of tropical Africa and South
America) may be able to produce a valid International
Certificate of Vaccination. Air travellers who only
pass through the airports of such a zone are exempt
from the requirement. It is also advised that all
travellers be vaccinated against Meningitis, Typhoid
and Hepatitis. As Uganda and Rwanda are in a malaria
zone, visitors should also take prophylactics against
malaria although the best way to avoid catching
malaria is to avoid bites by using mosquito repellent
and sleeping under a mosquito net. For your own
comfort take a mosquito repellent. Mosquito nets are
provided in most hotels, lodges and camps. Precautions
should be taken against malaria both when visitors are
in the country, and when they return home. It is
advisable to drink only boiled or bottled water and
avoid swimming in ponds and still water pools.
While doctors and dentists are available throughout
many areas of the country, the major hospitals are
located in the main towns. Bring any special
medication you may need, and carry medical insurance.
Most chemists in the major towns are open from 08h30
to 12h30 and 14h00 to 17h00 Monday to Friday and 08h00
to 13h00 on Saturdays. There are no emergency chemists
open after hours or Sundays.
Swimming in some lakes is not recommended except in
designated areas. Consult our itineraries or ask your
guide for bilharzias-free lakes open to swimmers.
Medical Insurance should be purchased before you leave
your own country and should include emergency air
evacuation coverage if you’re spending any time in
remote parts of the country. There are some medical
rescue organizations available.
WHAT TO WEAR:
Daytime temperatures are generally warm to hot, so
bring lots of light clothing. Evenings are cooler,
especially at high altitudes, so carry a couple of
light sweaters too. Those who intend to hike on the
mountains will be exposed to alpine temperatures and
should pack accordingly.
In
many cultures, what you would consider normal hot
weather attire would not be worn in public in most
places! Therefore the dress code is dictated by the
host culture, not your own tastes and preferences!
Consider:
-
A
small selection of casual wear - e.g. long shorts,
jeans, modest skirts, t-shirts etc…
-
Long sleeved light weight tops / blouses / shirts and
long light trousers for protection on very hot days.
The best clothes to take are cotton material
-
Some natural colored clothes for Safari
-
A
sarong/ things to cover you in the evenings
-
Swimsuits and beachwear
-
Sandals or flip-flops, walking boots or shoes suitable
for rough terrain
-
A
light raincoat (it does rain sometimes in Uganda!) and
a jumper for it can be cool in the evening
-
A
sun hat
-
Rucksack/ daypack
Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunglasses and a
waterproof jacket.
WHAT TO BRING:
A
valid passport is mandatory (Passport must be valid
for at least 6 months after re-entry) and visa
requirements for all countries you are planning to
visit should be checked before you travel. Carry
binoculars and field guides, to make the most of the
game reserves and national parks, Photographers will
need a zoom lens for wildlife (70-300 or similar).
Please make sure to carry enough memory cards (Compact
Flash, SD-card etc) or films with you. We advise you
to take an international adapter with you for your
electric equipment. Toiletries and other essentials
can be bought in the cities.
HAND LUGGAGE:
A rucksack that can double as
your “day bag” for personal possession is recommended.
-
Passport, Personal money
-
Indigestion/ diarrhea/ travel sickness tablets
-
Travel sweets, Travel games
-
Snacks/ packed lunch for coach journey or money to buy
-
Drink for journey, in a re-sealable container (can be
bought at selected supermarkets in Africa)
-
You
do not need to take your mobile phone (as it can be
bought cheaply at selected outlets in the country)
ON ARRIVAL:
In
Uganda Customs and immigration officials are polite
and efficient, and a visa - for those who require one
- can be purchased on the spot at Entebbe
International Airport or at any overland border. Most
non-African passport holders require visas. One-month
single entry tourist visas cost US$50 per person
(US$20 when you are a student). Six-month
multiple-entry visas cost US$100. 12 months visa cost
$200
In Rwanda for those who require one - can be purchased
on the spot at Kigali International Airport or at any
overland border. Everyone except nationals from the
USA, Canada, Germany and other East African countries
requires visas. Citizens of the UK still need a visa,
but it’s free. For other passport holders visas cost
US$60 per person.
MONEY AND BANKING:
The
unit of currency is the Uganda shilling. The US dollar
is traditionally the hard currency of preference, but
Euro and Pound Sterling are also widely accepted. Hard
currency cash can be changed for local currency at
banks and private bureaux de change in all large
towns, but travellers' cheques are not widely accepted
outside Kampala. Local currency can be drawn against
Visa and other major credit cards at selected A TMs in
Kampala, at Entebbe International Airport, and in a
few other large towns. Foreign exchange and ATM
facilities are available at the airport and in
Kampala, but the ATM can be very ‘expensive’. So we
recommend our customers to take enough money with them
for the trip (in dollars, euros or pounds.
Please note that US$100 bank notes printed before 2000
are not accepted in Uganda. When you intend to
re-enter Rwanda from Uganda, Congo, Tanzania or
Burundi you can ask for a multiple entry visa. There’s
no extra cost and it offers flexibility.
The unit of currency is the Rwandan Frank (RFr). The
US dollar is traditionally the hard currency of
preference, but Euro and Pound Sterling are also
widely accepted. Please note that US$100 bank notes
printed before 2000 are not accepted in Rwanda.
Foreign exchange and ATM facilities are available at
the airport and in the city of Kigali, but the ATM can
be very ‘expensive’. So we recommend our customers to
take enough money with them for the trip (in dollars,
euros or pounds) and exchange it for local currency at
banks and private bureau de change in large towns.
Traveler’s Cheques are not widely accepted outside
Kigali and it is very difficult or impossible to pay
by credit card outside Kigali.
BANKING:
Several international banks operate in Kampala
including Barclay's bank, Standard Chartered bank and
Stanbic bank. Many local banks and foreign exchange
bureaus also operate across the country.
Generally the banking hours are 8.30a.m to 4:00p.m -
Monday to Friday, though some institutions are open
longer hours and on Saturdays. There are no longer
restrictions on foreign exchange transactions and
currency is easily convertible.
You can change dollars or pounds into local shillings
very easily.
FLIGHTS:
Various carriers go to Uganda and Kenya regularly and
they include: Air Tanzania, British Airways, Egypt
Air, Ethiopian Airlines, Gulf Air, Inter Air, Kenya
Airways, Air Brussels, South African Airways, KLM and
more. There are daily connections from Nairobi. There
are also several reputable domestic charter companies
to choose from.
Discountfares.com
- Great fares from North America
Ebookers.com
- Great online fares from Europe
Packing for the flight: Split up your valuable:
Bank cards, cash, travellers' cheques and credit cards
as much as possible in different pockets, your bags
and wallet when packing. In case you do get robbed, at
least you won't be strapped for cash (unless you have
all your bags AND your wallet stolen of course!)
CREDIT CARDS:
Most hotels, restaurants, banks, and the bigger shops
will take credit cards in Uganda. Only a few hotels
and banks in Kigali will accept credit cards. Most of
the bigger banks and hotels will advance local
currency against a credit card. The most commonly
accepted credit cards are VISA, MASTER CARD, DINNER'S
& AMERICAN EXPRESS. You can now use your visa card to
draw money from your account in Europe or America. we
however advise that you take cash to be on the safe
side.
COMMUNICATION:
The
IDD code for Uganda is +256; that for Rwanda is +250.
Within East Africa, the Uganda code is 006, Rwanda is
0037. International telephone communication is very
good from Kampala and Kigali. From some upcountry
areas it is more difficult. The mobile telephone
network is good and rapidly expanding. A European or
American mobile phone with a roaming agreement works
in Uganda. In Rwanda, local SIM cards can be purchased
in many outlets. Some Camps and lodges up country can
be accessed by two-way radio communication.
There are Email and Internet access services in
Kampala, Kigali, Entebbe and in some towns upcountry.
FOODS:
Fresh tropical fruits and vegetables are plentiful
throughout the country. A wide range of dishes, both
traditional and international, are served in the
hotels and restaurants. We will make sure that you
have a variety of good food while on your visit with
Kigezi Tours.
SAFARIS:
On
safari, your meals will be included in your package.
Advise us about what you will and will not eat, if
you're a vegetarian or have food allergies.
The main complaint on most safaris is that the food is
so good travelers end up gaining weight. Don't just
stick to the Western-style food served in reputable
hotels. Know your region's specialty so you can sample
it while there. Uganda Rwanda and Kenya offer German
and Indian, Chinese foods as well as great meals made
from fresh foods
FILMING GUIDE:
Temporary importation of equipment This generally
takes long to process and its best you contact us or
the Uganda Communications Commission or Office
Rwandais de Tourisme in Rwanda well in advance for
assistance.
In
Uganda, the following are the general guidelines for
filming crews.
In order to bring in equipment, you will require a
TEMPORARY IMPORT valid for 3 months. This can be
extended/renewed for another 3 months should you wish.
The 3 months period has to be secured by a SECURITY
BOND.
The
clearing Agents based at the Entebbe International
Airport have BOND facilities and will only be happy to
help you at a fee. In order to avoid delays on
arrival, you are advised to fax or e-mail your
details, equipment and value to your CONTACT in
Uganda, 7 days to your actual arrival date.
The
CONTACT will get a Clearing Agent who will prepare a
Customs Bill of Entry which will facilitate your
temporary import of equipment. And on exit, the
appointed Clearing and Forwarding Agents will need to
be notified on your date and flight connection to
enable him process re-export documents.
Remember there is no duty charged by Uganda Revenue
Authority. There is merely a fee due to the Clearing
Agent and which is negotiable depending on the
equipment value. For general television or commercial
tourism-related filming, filmers will need to be
cleared by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), the
Communications Commission and they will be required to
pay applicable fees. For specific questions, please
contact us.
TIPPING:
Our
general recommendation is to tip moderately - in
accordance with the level and quality of service
provided. (Tipping is greatly appreciated).
If our staff and guides have added fun and value to
your vacation, please tip your guide. They deeply
appreciate it, with gratitude, Kigezi Tours team
Beware of unscrupulous
people who try to exhort extra payment from unwary
passengers just for shuffling their bags around.
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Though some types of film are available in many of the
shops in the cities, it is advisable to bring films
and batteries with you. A pair of binoculars will
prove extremely useful for the keen game viewer. There
is no charge for photography cameras but there may be
a charge for video cameras in some places. Commercial
filming can be arranged but contact us in good time if
you need this service.
-
The
people you will meet are very friendly and welcoming
people but they are extremely sensitive if people take
their photograph. We advise that you always ask before
you take anyone's picture.
-
Pack lots of film: Africa is a once-in-a-lifetime
destination, whose natural resources are rapidly
depleting so photograph it while you still can. Pack
your favourite ASA100, 200, or 400-speed film. Fuji
chromes, because of the heightened Japanese cultural
sensitivity to colours and quality.
-
If
you are able to, bring at least two cameras: Blowing
sand in harsh desert conditions can severely scratch
your lens. Plus, if you lose one camera, you'll have a
backup. To protect your equipment at all times.
-
Use
a zoom-in lens: You won't want to miss close-ups of
East Africa's wildlife in its natural habitat. Use
80-400 millimetre lenses with a stabilizing unit built
into it if you can.
-
Bring a flash: Night drives through game reserves
afford some of the best pictures, because that's when
many of the large predators are most active.
-
Research your destination's culture, history,
environment, and geography before you go: You can
never know enough. The better you understand a
subject, the better you'll be able to capture it in a
meaningful way on film.
-
Rise early and stay out into early evening: Uganda
still run on solar rhythms, so the day begins before
dawn, fades in the afternoon, and has a second wind in
the evening as things cool off.
-
Understand and respect cultures: Not all Ugandans want
their pictures taken. For some cultures, it may be
against their religion or beliefs so always ask before
you shoot.
-
Interact with the locals: By gaining their trust, you
will be much more likely to capture the photograph you
desire. You can also pick up valuable insights on
cultural practices.
-
Walk: On foot it's easier to meet locals and become
involved with cultural activities that you want to
photograph.
-
Camcorder: You can bring your own own video cameras
(or camcorder) to make a lasting record of your trip
or Safari experience in Africa. These days you can get
small and amazing video cameras. Video cameras make a
great and exciting way to record your good memories of
Uganda and all your travels.
-
Travel lightly: Forget the telephoto lenses and
backpacks full of gear. Lots of bulky equipment will
slow you down and make photographing a burden.
GORILLA TREKKING AND
PERMITS:
To
track gorillas each person must have the day’s gorilla
permit which needs to be arranged and paid for in
advance. Each gorilla park (Bwindi and Mgahinga in
Uganda and Parc National des Volcans [PNV] in Rwanda)
has different numbers of permits per day (32, 8 and 56
for Bwindi, Mgahinga and PNV respectively).
No
person is allowed to track more than three times in
three consecutive days. Permits are non-refundable
except for medical reasons and a medical certificate
has to be provided. To protect gorillas from disease
and to avoid problems of arduous conditions in the
forests young trackers below the age of 15 and those
with illnesses are not allowed to track. Flash
photography is not allowed and visitors are advised to
use still cameras, at a distance of at least 5 meters
away from the animals. Professional filming requires
extra fees to be paid. Tracking through the thick
jungle, traversing canopies of thick undergrowth can
be tough, arduous and wet – the tracking can last from
as little as 45 minutes to as much as 9 hours.
Trackers therefore need to be well equipped with food
and water, strong water-proof clothing and must be fit
and healthy.
Strong, light clothes could be carried, as well as
rain jackets, a torch, sunglasses, a sun hat, gloves
to grip vegetation, socks. Use jungle boots,
long-sleeved shirt. A walking stick may be needed.
Porters can be hired to carry equipment for all
trackers (fees range between $5-20 per porter per
day). Part of the fees paid to the park authorities
goes directly to help local communities around the
Protected Area(s).
|
