Pre-Trip Checklist: Kampala

Essential Preparations

A smooth trip begins with careful planning.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Follow these steps at different stages leading up to your trip.

Months Before

Passport Validity

Ensure your passport holds validity for at least six months beyond your return date.

Visa Requirements

Confirm visa requirements and begin the online application process via Visas.immigration.go.ug.

Travel Clinic

Schedule a travel health specialist appointment. Discuss required and recommended vaccinations.

Month Before

Book Flights & Stays

Finalize international flights to Entebbe (EBB) and reserve main accommodations.

Airport Transfers

Arrange your airport transfers from EBB to your Kampala accommodation.

Document Copies

Make multiple digital and physical copies of all important documents. Consider travel insurance.

Week Before

Confirm Bookings

Double-check all flight, accommodation, tour, and transfer bookings.

Gear & Electronics

Acquire a Universal power adapter (Type G) and DEET insect repellent. Charge all devices.

Pack & Inform

Pack your luggage with climate-appropriate attire. Share itinerary with a trusted contact.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these before your journey.

Pre-Trip Confirmations

International flights.
E-visa (mandatory for most nationalities).
Yellow Fever Vaccination and certificate.
Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits (if applicable).

Pre-trip Research Recommendations

Inform yourself for a understanding.

Information

Research current travel advisories from your government.
Read up on Ugandan history and culture.
Familiarize yourself with basic Luganda phrases.
Understand local safety concerns.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Organize your home for peace of mind while away.

Household Logistics

Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
Secure pet care if needed.
Arrange for plant watering if needed.
Ensure bills are paid or set up for auto-payment.

Home Security

Lock all doors and windows securely.
Activate home security systems.
Notify trusted neighbors of your absence.
Use timers for lights to make the home appear occupied.

Emergency Contacts & Itinerary

Inform a trusted contact of your itinerary.
Leave emergency contact numbers with them.
Leave a spare with a trusted person for emergencies.
Share contact details for your accommodation in Kampala.

Permit Information

If your trip includes gorilla trekking, book your permits well in advance (often 3-6 months or more). These are limited and sell out quickly.

Arrival Checklist

These steps aid a smooth entry into Uganda.

First Steps at Entebbe Airport EBB

1
Documents Ready
Have your passport, e-Visa approval letter, and Yellow Fever certificate for immigration.
2
Clear Customs
Proceed through immigration, baggage claim, and customs.
3
Currency & Connectivity
Acquire initial Ugandan Shillings from ATMs or exchange services. Connect to airport Wi-Fi or purchase a local SIM card.

Orientation & Initial Purchases

Settle In
Upon reaching your accommodation, allot some time to settle in.
Explore Locally
Walk around your immediate neighborhood to acquaint yourself with amenities and safe routes.
Local Advice
Ask hotel staff for local tips, transport options, and dining recommendations.

Currency & Initial Purchases

Initial Currency

Acquire enough currency for immediate needs upon arrival.

ATMs at the airport provide local currency.

Bottled Water

Purchase bottled water immediately; tap water is not for consumption.

Stay hydrated from safe sources.

Snacks & Toiletries

Acquire any immediate snacks or toiletries you require.

Local shops are convenient for these items.

Transport from EBB

Find your pre-arranged transfer or negotiate a taxi fare to Kampala for your first ride.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure from Kampala to allow a relaxed exit.

Souvenir & Shipping

Complete your souvenir shopping a day or two before departure.
If you have larger items or many purchases, inquire about shipping services from reputable local companies.
Be aware of customs regulations for imports back to your home country.
Uganda generally does not feature a VAT refund system for tourists on goods purchased. Confirm this locally if you have made significant purchases.

Pre-departure Timing

Attempt to arrive at Entebbe International Airport (EBB) at least 2-3 hours before your international flight.
Allow extra time for travel from Kampala to Entebbe, as traffic can be unpredictable and heavy.
Confirm your return flight details and check in online if feasible.
Ensure all your travel documents are secure and readily accessible. Pack any liquids in checked luggage.

Checked Baggage Tips

Properly prepare your luggage for air travel.

Weight & Contents

Check airline baggage weight limits.
Pack liquids in checked luggage according to regulations.
Secure fragile items with adequate padding.
Place important documents and medications in your carry-on.

Security Screening

Be prepared to remove shoes, belts, and electronics.
Place laptops and tablets in separate bins for scanning.
Liquid restrictions apply to carry-on bags.
Follow all security personnel instructions.

Digital Document Backup

Create a digital folder on your phone or cloud storage containing scans of all your important documents.

This acts as a backup should physical copies be lost.

Pre-Trip Checklist