Uganda Safari Packing List

Uganda Safari Packing List -All You Need to Know and Pack!

Preparing for a safari in Uganda is one of the most exciting parts of planning your journey. Known as the Pearl of Africa, Uganda is blessed with an extraordinary diversity of landscapes and experiences, from dense rainforests and snow-capped mountains to sweeping savannahs and sparkling lakes. This variety makes packing slightly more complex than for a single-destination holiday—you’ll need to be ready for both warm, dusty plains and cool, misty forests, as well as relaxed evenings at your lodge.

Your safari could take you deep into the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for gorilla trekking, where muddy trails and unpredictable rain showers demand sturdy boots and rain gear. A few days later, you might find yourself on the open savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park, where light, breathable clothing in neutral tones is best for game drives and photography. If your itinerary includes Murchison Falls National Park, you’ll want a hat and sunscreen for boat cruises along the Nile, while a visit to Kibale Forest for chimpanzee trekking will require long sleeves and insect protection. Evenings at Lake Bunyonyi or Lake Mburo may call for a light sweater against the cool breeze, and a swimsuit for a dip or canoe ride.

Because safaris in Uganda involve varied terrain, long drives, and activities that range from adventurous treks to relaxed cultural visits, it’s important to pack smart, focusing on comfort, practicality, and versatility. This guide breaks down the essential travel documents, clothing, footwear, safari gear, health supplies, and special equipment you’ll need to make the most of your journey. With the right preparation, you can enjoy every aspect of your Uganda safari without worry—fully immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and unforgettable encounters that await.

Uganda Safari Packing List

1. Essential Travel Documents

Before anything else on your Uganda Safari Packing List, it’s important to get your travel documents in order. Missing or incomplete paperwork can disrupt your safari plans, so double-check everything well before departure. Here’s what you’ll need for a smooth journey into Uganda:

Passport – Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Uganda. Most airlines and immigration officials strictly enforce this rule, so check the expiration date early. Also, make sure you have at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
Uganda Visa – Most travelers require a visa to enter Uganda. This is easily obtained through the official Uganda e-Visa system online. Apply at least 2–3 weeks before travel to avoid last-minute delays. Print a copy of your visa approval letter and carry it with you—it will be required at immigration upon arrival.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate – Uganda requires proof of yellow fever vaccination for all incoming travelers. You’ll be asked to show this at the airport before being allowed entry. Without it, you may be denied boarding or entry. It’s also wise to keep a copy of your vaccination card with your travel insurance documents.

2. Clothing for Your Safari

Uganda’s climate is wonderfully diverse, ranging from hot savannah plains to cool mountain forests. Having the right clothing on your Uganda Safari Packing List will keep you comfortable, protected, and prepared for every part of your safari. The key is to bring lightweight, versatile, and practical clothing that works across different environments.

Neutral-Colored Shirts & Trousers – Choose earth tones like khaki, olive, beige, or brown. These colors blend into the natural surroundings and reduce the chances of startling wildlife. Avoid bright colors, which can distract animals, and avoid dark blue or black, as these tend to attract tsetse flies. Lightweight trousers are better than shorts for protection against insects and thorny bushes.
Lightweight Long-Sleeved Shirts & Pants – These are essential for both sun protection and insect defense. A breathable, moisture-wicking fabric will keep you cool during hot game drives while still shielding your arms and legs. Convertible safari pants (with zip-off legs) are especially handy, as you can switch between shorts and trousers depending on the conditions.

Fleece or Warm Jacket – Don’t underestimate how chilly Uganda can get, particularly in high-altitude regions like Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Kibale National Park. Early mornings and evenings can be cold, and a warm fleece or jacket will keep you comfortable while tracking gorillas or relaxing around a campfire.
Rain Jacket or Poncho – Uganda’s forests and highlands are known for sudden showers, even outside of the main rainy seasons. A lightweight, packable rain jacket or poncho is invaluable during gorilla or chimpanzee trekking, when staying dry means staying comfortable.
Comfortable Safari Hat or Cap – A wide-brimmed safari hat offers the best sun protection for your face and neck during game drives and boat safaris. If you prefer a cap, choose one with a neck flap or use it alongside sunscreen for added coverage.
Swimwear – Many safari lodges have swimming pools, and if your itinerary includes Lake Bunyonyi or Lake Mburo, swimwear will come in handy for a refreshing dip or canoe ride. Pack at least one quick-dry swimsuit.
Casual Evening Wear – After long days on safari, you’ll appreciate having comfortable clothes for evenings at your lodge. Lightweight cotton or linen outfits are perfect for dinners, while a cardigan or shawl will add warmth when temperatures drop.

3. Footwear on Uganda Safari Packing List

The footwear you choose on your Uganda Safari Packing List can make or break your safari experience. Uganda’s terrain is diverse—ranging from muddy forest trails and steep hillsides to dry, dusty savannah tracks. The right shoes will keep you comfortable, safe, and able to enjoy every activity without worry. Here’s what you’ll need:

Sturdy Hiking Boots – These are absolutely essential if your itinerary includes gorilla trekking in Bwindi or Mgahinga or chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest. Trails can be muddy, slippery, and steep, especially after rain, so waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are a must. Look for boots with strong tread for grip and make sure to break them in before your trip to avoid blisters.
Comfortable Walking Shoes – On days dedicated to game drives or light nature walks, you won’t need heavy boots. A pair of lightweight walking or trail shoes will give you the comfort you need during long drives and casual strolls around the lodge. Breathable materials are best, as they keep your feet cool in warm savannah areas.
Sandals or Flip-Flops – After a full day of trekking or driving, it feels great to slip into something light and comfortable. Sandals or flip-flops are perfect for relaxing at your lodge, moving around camp, or heading to the pool. They don’t take up much space in your luggage and provide your feet a break from enclosed shoes.
Thick, Breathable Socks – Good socks are just as important as good shoes. Thick, moisture-wicking socks help prevent blisters during long treks and keep your feet dry and comfortable. Bring several pairs, as they can get damp quickly in forested areas. For gorilla trekking, many travelers prefer to wear knee-length socks to tuck their trousers into, which also helps protect against insects.

4. Safari Gear & Accessories

The right gear and accessories on your Uganda Safari Packing List can significantly enhance your safari experience, ensuring you stay comfortable, safe, and ready to capture every memorable moment. Uganda’s diverse wildlife and landscapes are best enjoyed with a few key items that combine practicality with convenience.

Binoculars – A quality pair of binoculars is essential for birdwatching and spotting distant wildlife on game drives. Uganda is home to over 1,000 bird species and countless animals that may be far from your vehicle, so binoculars allow you to get a closer view without disturbing the animals. Choose compact, lightweight binoculars with good magnification (8×42 is ideal) for comfort during long safaris.
Camera with Zoom Lens – Uganda is a photographer’s paradise, from gorillas in Bwindi to elephants in Queen Elizabeth National Park. A camera with a good zoom lens (at least 200mm) will help you capture detailed wildlife shots while maintaining a safe distance. Don’t forget a camera strap or harness to keep it secure during bumpy game drives.

Spare Batteries & Memory Cards – Many lodges and safari camps have limited electricity, so it’s wise to carry extra batteries and memory cards for your camera and binoculars. Keeping your devices powered ensures you never miss a once-in-a-lifetime moment. A portable power bank can also be a lifesaver for phones and small electronics.
Daypack – A lightweight, waterproof backpack is invaluable for carrying essentials during treks and game drives. Look for a pack with multiple compartments for water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and your camera gear. Compact daypacks keep your hands free and make hiking or walking safaris much more comfortable.
Reusable Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during warm days on the savannah or long forest hikes. Bring a durable, refillable water bottle to reduce plastic waste and ensure you always have water on hand. Many lodges and camps provide safe drinking water for refills.
Headlamp or Flashlight – A reliable headlamp or flashlight is essential for navigating lodges at night, early morning wake-ups for gorilla treks, or evening walks. Choose a lightweight, hands-free headlamp with long battery life for maximum convenience.

5. Health & Safety Essentials

Your health and safety are crucial for a worry-free and enjoyable safari experience. Uganda’s tropical climate, diverse ecosystems, and remote destinations make it important to be prepared for minor illnesses, insect bites, sun exposure, and other travel-related health concerns.

Prescription Medications – Always carry any prescription medications you need in their original labeled bottles, along with enough supply to last your entire trip. Bring a copy of your prescriptions in case of emergencies or if you need to refill while in Uganda. It’s also wise to pack medications in a waterproof bag to protect them from humidity and rain.

Anti-Malarial Medication – Malaria is present in Uganda, particularly in lowland areas and near water bodies. Consult your doctor before traveling to determine the most suitable anti-malarial medication for your trip. Start taking it as advised and continue for the recommended duration after your return.
Insect Repellent – Mosquitoes and other insects can be common, especially in forested and wet areas. Use a repellent containing DEET or picaridin on exposed skin, and consider treating clothing with permethrin for extra protection. Applying repellent regularly, especially during dawn and dusk, helps reduce the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.
First Aid Kit – A basic first aid kit is a must-have for any safari. Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, blister plasters, and any personal medical necessities. Even minor cuts or scrapes can become problematic if not treated promptly, particularly in humid or muddy environments.
Hand Sanitizer & Wet Wipes – Long game drives, boat trips, and forest treks often mean limited access to running water. Carry hand sanitizer and wet wipes for quick hygiene and cleaning hands before meals, snacks, or after visiting remote areas.
Sunscreen & Lip Balm with SPF – Uganda’s equatorial sun can be surprisingly strong, even in forested regions. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to all exposed skin and use lip balm with SPF to protect against sunburn. Reapply frequently, especially after hikes or boat trips.

6. Toiletries & Personal Care

While many lodges in Uganda provide basic toiletries such as soap or shampoo, it’s best not to rely on these alone—especially if you have specific preferences or sensitive skin. Having your own toiletries and personal care items on your Uganda Safari Packing List ensures you stay comfortable, fresh, and confident throughout your safari.

Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Deodorant, Shampoo, and Soap – The basics of personal hygiene are essential. Choose travel-sized containers to save space and prevent spills. Biodegradable soap and shampoo are ideal, as they are more eco-friendly and safe for use in wilderness areas where wastewater runs back into nature.
Quick-Dry Travel Towel – Lightweight and compact, a microfiber travel towel dries much faster than regular towels and is perfect for treks, swimming at lodges, or unexpected rain showers. It takes up minimal space in your luggage and can double as a shawl or blanket on chilly evenings.

Moisturizer – Uganda’s sun, wind, and even dusty savannah roads can leave your skin feeling dry. A good facial and body moisturizer will help keep your skin hydrated. Consider packing an aloe-based lotion, which can also soothe mild sunburn or insect bites.
Feminine Hygiene Products – Sanitary pads, tampons, or menstrual cups should be on your Uganda Safari Packing List in sufficient quantities, as these products may not always be available in rural towns or safari lodges. If using disposable items, bring a discreet sealable bag to store waste until proper disposal is possible.

7. Electronics & Travel Accessories

Having the right electronics and travel accessories can make your safari more comfortable, connected, and enjoyable. From keeping devices charged to ensuring restful travel between destinations, thoughtful preparation is key.

Universal Travel Adapter – Uganda uses Type G plugs with a voltage of 240V, so a reliable universal adapter is essential for charging your electronics. Some lodges may have limited outlets, so consider bringing one with multiple USB ports to charge several devices at once.
Portable Power Bank – While many lodges provide electricity, power outages are possible, especially in remote areas. A high-capacity power bank ensures your smartphone, camera, or other devices remain charged during long game drives, forest treks, or boat trips.

Smartphone or Tablet – A smartphone or tablet is useful not just for communication, but also for navigation, taking notes, using offline maps, safari apps, and storing photos. Download relevant apps, guides, or e-books beforehand, as internet access can be limited in rural regions.
Travel Pillow & Eye Mask – Long drives between national parks or early morning flights can be tiring. A comfortable travel pillow and an eye mask help you rest properly, ensuring you arrive at each destination energized for your adventures.
Optional Accessories – In your Uganda Safari Packing List, consider bringing noise-canceling headphones, a small tripod for photography, or a waterproof phone case for boat cruises and rainy conditions. These small additions can greatly enhance your safari experience.

8. Special Packing for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking in Uganda’s lush forests, such as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—but it demands extra preparation. The terrain can be steep, muddy, and densely vegetated, so packing the right gear ensures safety, comfort, and enjoyment.

Gardening Gloves – Trekking paths can be overgrown with thick vegetation, thorns, and stinging nettles. Lightweight gardening gloves protect your hands from scratches and cuts while helping you grip branches or support yourself on steep slopes.

Gaiters or Long Socks – Tucking trousers into gaiters or long socks helps keep mud, leeches, and insects out of your shoes. This simple precaution can make long treks far more comfortable and hygienic.
Walking Stick or Trekking Poles – While guides often provide walking sticks, carrying your own lightweight trekking poles can reduce strain on knees and legs, improve balance on slippery trails, and make steep climbs easier. Adjustable poles are ideal for varying terrain.
Rainproof Backpack Cover – Forest treks are often wet, even outside of the rainy season. A waterproof cover protects your camera, binoculars, snacks, and other essentials from rain, humidity, or accidental splashes.
Additional Tips – Quick-dry clothing, a small first aid kit, and a refillable water bottle are highly recommended. Avoid bright colors, as gorillas are accustomed to natural surroundings and neutral tones help you blend in without disturbing them.

9. Money & Tipping

Managing money carefully is essential while traveling in Uganda. Although many lodges, hotels, and larger shops accept credit or debit cards, cash remains the most convenient option for everyday expenses, small purchases, and tipping. Carrying both US dollars and Ugandan shillings ensures flexibility.

Currency Tips – Always bring new, crisp US dollar bills (issued after 2009) as older notes may be rejected. Ugandan shillings are useful for small transactions in rural areas, local markets, or when paying for souvenirs and refreshments.

Clothing & Shoes: Lightweight, gently used clothing, shoes, or socks for children and adults are greatly appreciated. Choose items in good condition that are suitable for Uganda’s climate. Focus on practical, everyday clothing rather than fashion items.

Toys & Games: Bringing small toys, balls, puzzles, or educational games can bring immense joy to children. Simple, durable items that encourage creativity, learning, or outdoor play are the most useful.

Hygiene & Health Items: Personal care items are often in short supply in rural communities. Toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, sanitary pads, and reusable water bottles are practical essentials that make a meaningful difference in daily life.

Small Denominations – Break large bills into smaller amounts before your trip. Having $1, $5, and $10 bills, as well as smaller Ugandan shilling notes, is particularly helpful for tips, park entry fees, or roadside purchases.
Tipping Etiquette – Tipping is customary in Uganda and an important way to show appreciation for excellent service:
- Guides: $10–20 per person per day is standard for exceptional service during safaris or gorilla trekking.
- Porters: $20 per person per day, especially for assistance during forest treks.
- Lodge staff: Small tips ($5–10) for housekeeping or other staff are appreciated.
Practical Tips – Always carry some cash in your daypack for quick access during game drives or treks. Avoid flashing large amounts of money in public. Keeping a mix of USD and local currency helps avoid unnecessary stress when purchasing items in rural areas.
You can find Forex bureaus in the big cities to exchange money to local currency but keep it in mind the exchange rate may vary depending on the location. Kampala and Entebbe may have a better rate than areas up country.
ATMs are very easy to find in most of the cities and big town wherever you will be across the country. Always ask you guide to locate one for you. Remember to be very fast while using the machine, delay in the transaction may lead to swallowing of you card which will take time to retrieve it from the bank management.

10. Pack for a Purpose: Charity & Community Contributions

One of the most rewarding ways to enrich your Uganda safari is by supporting local communities. Many travelers choose to “Pack for a Purpose”—bringing small, meaningful items to help children and families in need. This thoughtful approach allows you to make a positive impact while exploring Uganda’s incredible wildlife and culture.

School Supplies: Education is highly valued, and many schools in rural areas have limited resources. Items such as notebooks, pencils, pens, crayons, markers, erasers, and coloring books are extremely helpful. These small contributions can empower children and enhance their learning experiences.

Final Tips for Packing Light

Packing efficiently is key to enjoying a stress-free safari in Uganda. With the variety of experiences—from forest treks to savannah game drives—travelers benefit from smart packing strategies that keep luggage manageable while ensuring you have everything you need.

Choose Soft-Sided Luggage: Soft-sided bags or duffel bags are ideal for safaris because they are flexible and easier to fit into safari vehicles. They are also lighter than hard-shell suitcases and allow for better packing organization.
Pack Only What You Need: Avoid overpacking. Many lodges and lodges in Uganda offer laundry services, so you can re-wear clothing items rather than carrying excessive quantities. Focus on versatile pieces that can be layered or used in multiple settings.
Layering Is Key: Uganda’s climate varies with altitude and time of day, so pack clothing that can be layered. Lightweight shirts, fleeces, and rain jackets can be combined for warmth or removed during warmer afternoons. Layering reduces the need for bulky clothing items.
Leave Room for Souvenirs: Uganda is rich in cultural and artisanal products, from hand-carved wooden crafts to locally grown coffee and jewelry. Reserve some space in your bag for souvenirs, so you don’t have to juggle purchases at the end of your trip.
Additional Tips: Use packing cubes to organize clothing and accessories, and roll clothes instead of folding to save space. Keep essential items like medications, travel documents, and electronics in an easily accessible compartment of your luggage for convenience.

By following these Uganda Safari Packing List, you’ll travel lighter, stay organized, and have more energy to fully enjoy Uganda’s incredible wildlife, landscapes, and cultural experiences.