Secure Cheap Flights to Uganda and Experience the Pearl of Africa

December to February is a dry season, making it one of the best times for gorilla trekking and bird watching.

March to May brings the long rains, turning the landscape lush and green, though some remote roads may be difficult.

June to August is the second dry season and peak tourist time, offering the best conditions for all activities.

September to November sees the return of rains, which can offer lower prices and fewer tourists at major attractions.

Brazilian citizens require a visa to enter Uganda. The most efficient method is applying for an e-visa online before departure. You will need a passport valid for at least six months, a yellow fever vaccination certificate, and a digital passport photo. The standard single-entry tourist visa costs approximately 50 USD. Alternatively, if you plan to visit Kenya and Rwanda on the same trip, the East Africa Tourist Visa is a superior option for 100 USD. Ensure you carry a printed copy of your e-visa approval at all times. Upon arrival at Entebbe, immigration officers will verify your documents. It is also wise to have proof of return flights and sufficient funds for your stay. Yellow fever vaccination is strictly mandatory and checked at the border, so keep your international certificate of vaccination handy throughout your journey.

Navigating Uganda involves a mix of private and public options. In Kampala, boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) are fast but carry safety risks; always use ride-hailing apps like SafeBoda for vetted drivers. For longer distances, private transfers or scheduled domestic flights are recommended over public buses, which can be overcrowded and slow. If you choose to drive, remember that traffic moves on the left side of the road, similar to the UK but different from Brazil. Roads in national parks often require a 4x4 vehicle, especially during the rainy seasons. For a local experience, try a 'matatu' (shared minibus), but be prepared for frequent stops. Always agree on fares before starting your journey if a meter is not present. Hiring a local driver for the duration of your safari is the most reliable way to ensure safety and reach remote trailheads for gorilla trekking.

Ugandan culture is deeply rooted in respect and hospitality. When greeting locals, a polite handshake is standard, and it is common to ask about one's well-being before starting a business conversation. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites; covering shoulders and knees is appreciated. Public displays of affection are generally discouraged. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people. In restaurants, tipping is not mandatory but a 10% gratuity is highly valued for good service. Ugandans are generally soft-spoken, so maintaining a calm demeanor is better than being loud or confrontational. Learning basic phrases in Luganda, such as 'Oli otya' (How are you?), goes a long way in building rapport. Respecting elders is paramount, and you should always use your right hand when giving or receiving items, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean in many local contexts.

To eat like a local, try 'matooke' (steamed green bananas), which is the national staple often served with a rich peanut sauce called 'gnut sauce'. Don't miss the 'rolex'—a popular street food consisting of a chapati rolled with an egg omelet and vegetables. For a unique experience, visit a local market to try fresh tilapia from Lake Victoria. While Brazilian churrasco is famous for beef, Uganda offers excellent goat meat, often roasted and served with cassava. Always drink bottled or filtered water, and avoid ice in drinks at smaller establishments. For a 'don't be a tourist' tip, head to the Wandegeya market in Kampala for authentic evening snacks. For the best photo, capture the vibrant colors of a fruit stall piled high with jackfruit and pineapples. TICKETS.COM.BR suggests trying the local coffee, as Uganda is one of the world's top producers, offering a bold and aromatic flavor profile.