Rwanda and Uganda are warm, welcoming and still wonderfully off the usual tourist path. A little local know-how goes a long way here, so here’s everything we’d tell a friend before she goes.
Looking for what to bring? That’s all in our Uganda packing list.
Money and tipping
ATMs are easy to find in Kigali and Kampala, but they get scarce once you head into the national parks, so it’s worth taking out cash before the remote stretches. Lodges and nicer restaurants take cards, while markets, snacks and tips are cash only.
If you’re bringing US dollars, make sure they’re clean, undamaged and printed in 2013 or later, since older or torn bills are often refused. Larger bills usually get a better exchange rate.
Tipping your guide is a lovely way to say thank you, and it’s the one we leave to you. Most travelers give $10 to $12 a day. Your driver works just as hard behind the scenes, and $5 a day is a kind thank-you for them too. Tips for the rangers, trackers and porters on your included treks are already taken care of.
Out on your own, tipping is appreciated but never expected. In restaurants in Kigali and Kampala, around 10% is generous if service isn’t already on the bill, and rounding up is perfect for taxis.
Culture and etiquette
Greetings really matter here. Say hello and ask how someone is doing before you ask a question or buy something, and use your right hand to give and receive. A few local words go a long way: in Uganda, try webale (thank you), and in Rwanda, muraho (hello) and murakoze (thank you).
Both countries are fairly conservative, especially outside the cities, so covered shoulders and knees help you feel at ease and blend in. It’s always kind to ask before photographing people, and it’s best not to photograph military, police or government buildings at all.
Two Rwanda quirks worth knowing: plastic bags are banned, even at the airport, so leave them at home. And on the last Saturday of each month, the country pauses for Umuganda, a morning of community work when many shops stay closed until midday.
Staying healthy and safe
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for Uganda, so keep it with your passport. Malaria is present in both countries, so check in with a travel clinic well before you go. Stick to bottled or filtered water, which your lodges provide.
Traveling with your group, you’ll feel well looked after. In Kampala and Kigali, keep valuables out of sight and avoid walking alone after dark. Your guide will always point you to safe ways to get around, and we’d skip the boda-bodas, the motorbike taxis.
Most hotels and lodges have wifi, though it can be slow or patchy in the parks. An eSIM is the easiest way to stay connected, or you can pick up a local SIM from MTN or Airtel with your passport.
Gorilla trekking etiquette
Meeting the gorillas is the moment most travelers never forget, and the rules are there to keep them healthy and wild. Before every trek, the rangers give you a briefing.
Keep your distance, speak softly and skip the flash. Your hour with the gorillas starts once you find them, so take a moment to put the camera down and just watch. Gorillas can catch human illnesses, so if you feel unwell, let your guide know early. You won’t be able to trek if you’re sick.
Local porters can carry your daypack and give you a hand on the steep, muddy bits. It’s a great way to support the community, and on our trip it’s arranged for you.
FAQ: Rwanda and Uganda
Is it safe for women to travel to Uganda and Rwanda?
Yes, especially with a guided group and the usual city smarts. Rwanda is often called one of the safest countries in Africa.
Do I need a visa?
Most travelers do. Check the requirements for your nationality for both countries before you go.
How much cash should I bring?
Enough for tips, snacks, drinks and souvenirs, plus access to at least $500 for emergencies. Take out local currency in the cities before heading to the parks.
Can I drink the tap water?
We’d stick to bottled or filtered water, which your lodges provide.
The bottom line
Learn a few words, ask before you snap and pack clean US dollars. Rwanda and Uganda will take it from there.
Want to go? See our Rwanda + Uganda trip, and read how we travel together.
