5 Days – Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth and Kalinzu Forest

What You Should Know Before Traveling

1. Visas and Entry Requirements

• Visa Requirements: Ensure you have a valid passport with at least six months of validity. Most East African countries (Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania) require a visa for international travelers. You can apply for a single-entry visa or the East African Tourist Visa, which allows travel between Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya on a single visa.
• Visa on Arrival: Some nationalities can obtain visas on arrival, but it's best to apply in advance for convenience.
• Entry Health Requirements: A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry into Rwanda and most neighboring countries.

2. Vaccinations and Health Precautions

• Required Vaccinations: In addition to Yellow Fever, it’s recommended to be up-to-date with routine vaccines such as Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and Tetanus.
• Malaria Precaution: Malaria is prevalent in many areas of East Africa. Travelers are advised to take anti-malarial medication and use insect repellent with DEET, especially in rural areas.
• COVID-19 Guidelines: Ensure you check the latest COVID-19 travel restrictions and vaccine requirements, which may vary from country to country. Always carry a mask and sanitizer.

3. Safety and Security

• General Safety: Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania are generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid displaying valuables, and always travel with your guide or tour group.
• Wildlife Safety: When participating in safaris, always follow your guide’s instructions. Keep a safe distance from animals and never leave the vehicle unless instructed.
• Health Insurance: Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and activities like gorilla trekking or safaris.

4. Packing List

• Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime activities, and warm layers for cooler nights, especially in high-altitude areas like Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
• Footwear: Comfortable hiking boots are essential for trekking, while sandals or casual shoes work well for city exploration.
• Rain Gear: A waterproof jacket and pants are recommended, especially during the rainy season (March-May and October-November).
• Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The sun can be intense, particularly at higher elevations.
• Insect Repellent: Essential for protecting against mosquito bites, especially in the evenings.

5. Weather and Best Travel Times

• Rwanda and Uganda: The best time for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons, from December to February and June to September. Expect cool mornings and evenings, with pleasant daytime temperatures.
• Kenya and Tanzania: The best time for safaris is from June to October, during the dry season, when animals gather around water sources, making wildlife viewing easier.
• Packing for the Seasons: Dry season (June–October) is great for wildlife viewing, while the rainy seasons (March-May, October-November) bring lush landscapes but may make some roads impassable.

6. Currency and Money Matters

• Local Currency: Rwanda uses the Rwandan Franc (RWF), Uganda uses the Ugandan Shilling (UGX), Kenya the Kenyan Shilling (KES), and Tanzania the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS).
• Foreign Currency: U.S. Dollars are widely accepted, especially for larger payments like park fees and accommodations. However, smaller transactions should be made in local currency.
• ATMs and Credit Cards: ATMs are available in major cities, but it’s advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling to rural areas. Credit cards may not be widely accepted outside major hotels.

7. Cultural Etiquette and Customs

• Respecting Local Culture: East African countries are rich in diverse cultures and traditions. Be respectful of local customs, dress modestly when visiting rural areas, and always ask before taking photos of people.
• Language: English is widely spoken in Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, though Swahili is a common regional language. Learning a few basic phrases in Swahili or Kinyarwanda can enhance your experience.

• SIM Cards and Internet: Local SIM cards are readily available, and most accommodations offer Wi-Fi. Ensure your phone is unlocked before you travel.
• Voltage and Plugs: East African countries use a mix of plug types, including British type G (three-pin) and European type C (two-pin). The voltage is typically 220-240V.

9. Important Notes for Adventure Activities

• Gorilla Trekking Permits: If you're participating in gorilla trekking, permits must be booked in advance due to limited availability. Bring sturdy boots, gloves, and gaiters for trekking through the dense forest.
• Safari Drives: Early morning and late afternoon game drives offer the best chance of spotting wildlife. Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens for the best experience.