Is Uganda safe to visit in 2025?

Planning a safari to Uganda but wondering if it is safe? You are not alone—many travelers ask this before setting out. After all, you want adventure and unforgettable wildlife encounters, but also peace of mind. The truth is: Uganda is a safe, welcoming, and rewarding destination.

From gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, many visitors enjoy Uganda every year without issues. In this guide, we share our honest, on-the-ground perspective—plus practical safety tips on road travel, preventing petty crime, and staying healthy—so you can plan your trip with confidence.

Safety In Uganda | what the headlines don’t tell you

Travel advisories from embassies about developing countries are often written with extreme caution. In Uganda’s case, this can sometimes paint a picture that doesn’t match reality. Incidents are occasionally taken out of context, making the country seem riskier than it truly is.

From our experience—both personal and professional—Uganda is a safe and welcoming place. The people are warm, friendly, and proud to share their country with visitors.

Yes, there have been isolated attacks in the far west of the country, linked to rebel groups near the Congo border. While deeply unfortunate, these incidents are rare and confined to specific border regions far from Uganda’s main tourism destinations. It is worth putting things in perspective: cities like Paris, Brussels, or New York have all faced terrorism or violent crime, yet millions still travel there every year. Uganda deserves the same fair outlook.

When a single event occurs near the Congo border, some embassies issue blanket warnings for the entire country. This not only creates unnecessary fear, but also hurts the local communities who depend on tourism for their livelihoods.

The reality is simple: Uganda is a beautiful, safe, and rewarding country to explore. Don’t let headlines or outdated warnings stop you from experiencing the Pearl of Africa for yourself.

Is crime a concern in Uganda?

For most visitors, Uganda feels very safe—especially if you use the same street-smart habits, you would anywhere else in the world. Like in many countries, petty theft can occur in busy areas, but incidents involving tourists are uncommon and usually easy to avoid.

A few simple precautions go a long way:

Keep valuables like phones and wallets out of sight in crowded places.
Park your 4×4 in secure areas.
Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or carrying unnecessary luxury items.
Always keep an eye on your bags in markets or busier city streets.

Compared to many Western cities, crime rates in Uganda are low, and violent crime against tourists is very rare. More often than not, you will be welcomed with a smile, curiosity, and genuine hospitality from Ugandans.

Is it safe to drive in Uganda?

Yes—and it is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the country. We have been road-tripping through Uganda for over a decade, and while the roads can be a little rough in places, a reliable 4×4 make driving not only possible but truly unforgettable.

You will pass through stunning landscapes, vibrant towns, and hidden corners of the country that many visitors miss when they stick to the main tourist routes.

A few tips for safe and enjoyable driving:

Avoid driving after dark.
Watch out for potholes, speed bumps, and the occasional goat or cow on the road.
Take your time—driving in Uganda is about the journey as much as the destination.

To make things even easier, we provide every traveler with up-to-date travel advice, a detailed route briefing, and 24/7 support on the road. That way, you can hit the road with confidence and focus on the adventure ahead.

Tropical diseases in Uganda

Like many tropical destinations, Uganda has some health risks that travelers should prepare for—but with the right precautions, staying healthy is simple.

The main concern is malaria, so it’s wise to:

Use mosquito repellent, especially in the evenings.
Wear long sleeves and light trousers at night.
Sleep under a mosquito net (widely provided in lodges).
Take malaria prophylaxis (your doctor or travel clinic can recommend the best option for you).

In addition, vaccinations for yellow fever and hepatitis A are recommended, and proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into Uganda. With these steps, most travelers enjoy their trip without any health issues and can fully focus on the adventure.

Is Uganda safe for women?

Yes. Many women travel to Uganda safely and have wonderful experiences. Ugandans are generally respectful, welcoming, and eager to help visitors.

That said, it’s always wise to follow the same precautions you would anywhere in the world:

Avoid walking alone at night.
Dress modestly in rural areas to respect local culture.
Don’t be in isolated spots after dark.
Consider traveling with a local guide or driver for added peace of mind.

Most solo female travelers report feeling safe and supported, often highlighting the friendliness of Ugandans as one of the most memorable parts of their trip.

Can I drink tap water in Uganda?

It is best not to drink tap water in Uganda. Stick to bottled or properly filtered water, which is widely available throughout the country.

A few extra tips to stay safe and healthy:

Be cautious with ice cubes in drinks, especially in smaller towns.
Avoid raw salads and unpeeled fruits in rural areas where water treatment may be limited.
Always carry a refillable water bottle with a filter for convenience on long drives or hikes.

Following these simple precautions will help you stay hydrated and healthy while enjoying all that Uganda has to offer.

Is Uganda safe for solo travelers?

Absolutely. Uganda is a fantastic destination for solo travelers who plan ahead and stay aware. Ugandans are friendly, welcoming, and often go out of their way to help visitors. Popular tourist areas also make it easy to meet fellow travelers and share experiences.

A few tips to ensure a smooth trip:

Keep a close eye on your belongings, especially in busy areas like Kampala.
If you plan to self-drive, stick to main routes and avoid driving after dark.
Consider joining guided tours or hiring a local driver for parts of your trip—it’s a great way to explore safely while gaining local insights.

With the right precautions, solo travel in Uganda can be safe, rewarding, and full of memorable adventures.

Explore Uganda with a local driver

While a self-drive safari in Uganda can be an incredible adventure, many travelers prefer the comfort and ease of having a local driver-guide.

At Greenway Nature Tours Africa, our driver-guides are highly trained, exceptionally friendly, and intimately familiar with Uganda’s roads, culture, and wildlife.

A local driver-guide gives you the best of both worlds: you remain in control of your holiday and itinerary, while leaving the navigation, driving, and logistics to an expert. Along the way, you will discover hidden gems, gain insider knowledge about local culture, and enjoy a richer, more immersive experience of Uganda.

Our driver-guides aren’t just skilled behind the wheel—they are also experienced tour guides and bush mechanics, ready to handle any situation that might arise. Fluent in English and passionate about creating memorable journeys, they ensure your trip is safe, smooth, and truly unforgettable.