Is Uganda safe?

Uganda is generally a safe and stable country but there are a few things to be aware of.

• When in cities and towns use the same precautions that you would anywhere; don’t flaunt your valuables, be aware of your bag when you’re in crowded places and don’t leave valuables in your car. Be careful when you’re walking or driving at night.

• Avoid political demonstrations in cities as they can turn confrontational.

• Travel cautiously if you’re going near the border with South Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo, as there have been violent clashes in the area. There also has been violence in the Karamoja region of north-eastern Uganda.

• Uganda has a high rate of road accidents, so take caution if you’re on a self-driving trip. Most roads are unpaved and many are extremely pot-holed and bumpy. Never drive at night outside of the main towns – roads are not lit; some drivers drive without their lights on and there’s often livestock walking across the roads. In towns and villages, the speed limit is 50 kilometres per hour, while outside of towns it’s 80 km. Breaking the speed limit can get you a fine or imprisonment. Make sure that you’re travelling with a spare tyre and all the necessary tools.