Uganda Airlines Launches Direct Flights to Gatwick London

Uganda Airlines officially has declared the inauguration of direct flights between Entebbe and London Gatwick, with operations set to begin on May 18, 2025.

The landmark announcement was made during a high-profile event attended by Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, Minister of Works and Transport, alongside key stakeholders in Uganda’s aviation and tourism sectors.

Speaking at the event, the CEO of Uganda Airlines, Ms Jenifer Bamuturaki, expressed her excitement and pride in achieving this milestone, marking a new chapter for the airline as it celebrates its fifth anniversary.

“This route marks the end of our establishment phase and sets us on the course for long-term growth and expansion. It follows meticulous planning, preparations, and many setbacks, but finally, we are there,” she said.

She highlighted the challenges the airline faced, including disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which delayed initial plans for the London route. However, she noted that Uganda Airlines had successfully navigated these obstacles to secure landing rights in the UK.

Ms Bamuturaki emphasized that the new route would significantly enhance Uganda’s connectivity with Europe, boosting trade, tourism, and business ties.

“Besides shortening travel times for our passengers, this route also provides a more efficient pathway for exporters of fresh products to the UK. Uganda’s exports to the UK last year were worth $22.6 million, and we are confident that our cargo capacity on the Airbus A330-800neo will support the rapid growth of Ugandan exports,” she explained.

With four weekly flights to London, Uganda Airlines aims to optimize its network, providing seamless connections for travelers transiting to North America and other parts of Europe. The airline also plans to expand its African network, ensuring convenient onward connections across the continent.

The CEO reiterated the airline’s commitment to making Entebbe International Airport a key regional hub, with Uganda Airlines now operating 77 weekly departures, the highest among airlines at Entebbe. The addition of the London route will increase this number to 81 weekly departures.

She further reassured passengers of a premium travel experience on the state-of-the-art Airbus A330-800neo, which offers Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class cabins with top-tier comfort and service.

Ms. Bamuturaki expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Works and Transport, the Ministry of Finance, the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), and the British High Commission, all of whom played crucial roles in securing the necessary approvals for the London route.

“We would not have reached this point without the active guidance of the Uganda Airlines Board, management, and staff, who have worked tirelessly to ensure this route is added to our network,” she acknowledged.

She concluded her remarks by inviting the public to visit the airline’s booking portal and reserve tickets for London and other destinations Uganda Airlines serves.

Passengers eager to travel on the Entebbe-London Gatwick route can now begin booking their tickets ahead of the inaugural flight on May 18, 2025.

With this strategic expansion, Uganda Airlines is positioning itself as a major player in international aviation, strengthening Uganda’s presence on the global travel map.

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What Documents are Needed to Rent a Car in Uganda?

Renting a car in Uganda is a straightforward process, but it requires specific documents to ensure compliance with local regulations and rental company policies. These documents are essential for verifying your identity, driving eligibility, and agreement to the rental terms. Whether you are a resident or an international visitor, having the proper paperwork in order will make the process smooth and enable you to explore Uganda’s stunning landscapes and attractions with ease.

Renting a Car in Uganda: What Documents You Need

When planning to rent a car in Uganda, knowing which documents you need can make the process easier and avoid any surprises. Whether you are a tourist visiting the stunning national parks or a local needing a temporary vehicle, having the right documents ensures you can rent the car smoothly. Here’s a guide to the essential paperwork you will need to rent a car in Uganda:

1. Driver’s License

The most important document you’ll need is a valid driver’s license. This is a must for anyone who plans to drive the car. Here’s what you need to know about it:

• Local Drivers: If you live in Uganda and are renting a car locally, your Ugandan driver’s license should be enough.
• International Visitors: If you’re visiting Uganda as a tourist, you will need to present your valid driver’s license from your home country. It should be in English or accompanied by an official translation if it’s in another language.
• International Driving Permit (IDP): For extra security, many rental companies recommend or require an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your national driver’s license. The IDP is a translation of your license into multiple languages and is helpful if your original license isn’t in English.

2. Passport

You will need your passport as proof of your identity. The rental company may ask for a copy or a scanned version of your passport to verify your details. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Uganda. This helps ensure that your trip remains stress-free and prevents any issues with local regulations.

3. Credit or Debit Card

A credit or debit card is essential for renting a car in Uganda. Rental companies often require this as a form of security deposit. Here’s what you should know:

• Security Deposit: The rental company will put a hold on a specific amount of money from your card, which will be released when you return the car in good condition.
• Card Type: Make sure you use a card that’s accepted by the rental company. Most major cards like Visa, Mastercard, and sometimes American Express are accepted, but always check in advance.
• No Cash Option: Cash is usually not accepted as a form of payment for the deposit or rental fees.

4. Booking Confirmation

When you book your rental online or through an agent, you should receive a confirmation email or document. This should be shown at the rental office to confirm that you have a reservation. The booking confirmation might include:

• Your name and contact information
• Rental dates and location
• Type of car you’ve reserved and any additional services
• Price and payment details

It’s a good idea to print out or download the confirmation on your phone to show the rental company.

5. Proof of Insurance

Insurance is an important part of renting a car, and the requirements may vary based on the rental company. Some things to know include:

• Additional Coverage: For added protection, you can purchase additional insurance coverage or check if your own travel insurance policy covers car rentals.
• Proof of Coverage: If you already have insurance that covers rental cars, you may need to provide proof of this coverage when you pick up the vehicle. Make sure the insurance details are clear, including the policy number and what it covers.

6. Visa or Entry Permit

If you are a tourist, rental companies might ask to see your visa or entry permit for Uganda. This helps verify that you are legally in the country and are authorized to drive.

7. Rental Agreement

The rental agreement is a contract between you and the rental company that outlines the terms of the rental. You will need to read and sign this document before you can take the car. This agreement usually includes:

• The rental duration
• Total cost and payment method
• Fuel policy (whether you need to return the car with a full tank, for example)
• Mileage limits, if any
• Conditions for damages and breakdowns
• The rental company’s contact details

Be sure to read the agreement carefully and ask questions if there is anything you don’t understand.

8. Contact Information and Emergency Details

It’s also important to have the rental company’s contact details and emergency information on hand. This should include:

• Phone numbers for assistance or breakdowns
• Address and location of the rental office in Uganda
• Alternative contact details in case of emergency

This information will be useful if you face any unexpected problems during your rental period.

9. Driving Record (Optional)

While not always required, some rental companies may ask for a copy of your driving record to ensure you have a clean driving history. This can be helpful, especially if you plan to rent a high-value or premium car. Your driving record provides information about any accidents or violations you may have had.

10. Age Requirements

Most rental companies in Uganda have age requirements that must be met. The typical minimum age to rent a car is 21, but it can vary depending on the company and the type of car. Young drivers between 21 and 25 may need to pay an additional young driver surcharge.

11. Other Considerations

• Reservation vs. Walk-in Rentals: While booking a car in advance is the best option to ensure availability, you can also rent a car without a reservation. However, be prepared for higher costs and limited car choices.
• Fuel Policy: Make sure you understand whether the rental requires you to return the car with a full tank or if there are additional fees for fuel.
• Inspection of the Car: Before accepting the car, check for any pre-existing damage and ensure it’s documented in the rental agreement. This avoids misunderstandings when returning the vehicle.

Conclusion

Renting a car in Uganda is straightforward if you have all the right documents prepared. Ensure you have your driver’s license, passport, and proof of insurance at the ready, along with any additional paperwork that may be required by the rental company. Always read the rental agreement carefully and understand the terms before driving off. By following these guidelines and being prepared, you can enjoy your time driving through Uganda’s beautiful landscapes and bustling cities with peace of mind.

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Top Things to See and Do in Entebbe

Entebbe is the town where we find Uganda’s international airport called Entebbe International Airport. It is the main entry and exit to the country and for the   visitors coming to Uganda for the very first time; you will be welcomed at Entebbe international airport   with the tours and travel company you have booked with. The town is a pleasant in the country where one arrives and departs the country.

What is good about Entebbe

It is a pleasant town where one arrives and departs the country since it is a home of Uganda’s International airport. It is a town where one can explore the only Zoo in the country called Entebbe Zoo or Uganda Wildlife Education Center (UWEC) and many Islands. The town has got pleasant climate for the visitors to enjoy and it is strategically located on the Lake Victoria, which is the largest river in the world.  This means that on arrival, you can access a simple boat ride when you are still in Entebbe town. The most interesting things in Entebbe however include;

• Entebbe – Uganda Wildlife Educational Center

Most people prefer calling it Entebbe Zoo. The Uganda Wildlife Education Center is quite a good place for you to go and relax upon your arrival in the country. You can go there, walk around and view most of the wildlife found in Uganda. The Zoo is located along Lake Victoria and while here, you can take an afternoon mini safari while enjoying the vegetation, plants and trees which are found within the country. In case you arrive early, you will view chimpanzees within the center. You will do some birding from this place since there are a number of bird species found in this place.

• The Ngamba – Chimpanzee Island

This is a chimpanzee orphanage Island, this one of the best destinations for chimpanzee tracking in Uganda.  Currently, Ngamba Island has become a popular add on and most the tour operators make it as an add on to their safaris and tours. Most clients prefer spending there overnight here when they have visited the place.

• The Entebbe Botanical Gardens

The botanical gardens are good to visit during weekends. This because, it is not always busy and during this time, there are few people. This means that you will enjoy nature while at the gardens. You can also opt to spend a full day or half day in this place and the satisfaction derived is very high.

• The Entebbe Beaches

There are numerous beaches found in Entebbe town. These beaches are considered to be the best places to relax and enjoy you day or evening. There sunsets at these beaches is very good since these beaches are located on Lake Victoria.

• Birding and fishing in Entebbe town

You will participate in birding and fishing when you are in Entebbe town. For birders you can easily spend a full day in places including; beaches, Entebbe botanical gardens, Uganda Wildlife Education Center and Ngamba Island. Fishing is done along lake Victoria and you will enjoy the catching the large species of fish including Nile Perch, Tilapia and many other freshwater fish species.

• The Mabamba Swamp

This trip is located a very short distance from Entebbe town. It is considered as one of the places in Uganda where you will find the Shoe bill Stork. Not only will you see the Shoebill bard but also many of the water birds are found here.

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Gorilla Trekking in Uganda Or Rwanda

Gorilla trekking is of the thrilling moments that one shouldn’t miss before living planet earth. Under normal circumstances, gorilla trekking go on differing from country to country and experience differs as well. Some of the rampant questions under the spot light here include; which is the best place to do a gorilla trek Uganda or Rwanda? Which is more viable and cheaper: Bwindi or Volcanoes National Park? Is gorilla tracking in Rwanda better than Uganda? So such questions are some of the many that we are going to digest under this article.

Call it gorilla trekking or tracking or whatever comes in your mind, but it’s one of those really delightful, lifetime experiences you should take time for, before you leave planet earth. But where should you go is it Uganda OR Rwanda for Gorilla tracking! Let’s compare relating on gorilla permits, number of people to track pre-day, major challenge with tracking gorillas.

Gorilla Permits

The animation attached to the first setting eyes on a wild mountain gorilla is difficult to describe. Yet in the same sense, that magical one hour spent with the gorillas is worthy a million experiences in either Uganda or Rwanda. Although the experience is the same, it does not come cheaply considering that a permit goes for US$1500 in Rwanda and US$800 in Uganda – but it is unusual to find someone who regretted the financial outlay.

Number of people to track Gorillas
Only 8 persons can visit a given gorilla family per day. In Uganda, twenty gorilla families have been habituated in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest NP, and so can host 80 persons tacking the mountain gorillas on any day.
Rwanda can also take 80 persons per day. All else being equal, Rwanda’s Volcanoes Park has a slight edge over the rest because its gorillas are the most wholly habituated, and they are often found in bamboo than the dense forest which makes photographing easier.
The major challenge with tracking gorillas

The price of a gorilla permit in Rwanda is undoubtedly at US$750 compared to Uganda’s US$600 per permit. However, Rwanda’s pride is in the ability for one to do the gorilla trek even in one day and fly back home which is impossible for Uganda. Volcanoes National Park is located 116 km from Kigali and can be driven in just 2 hours.

However Uganda’s Bwindi National Park is located 500 km from Kampala/ Entebbe Airport and a drive can take 8 hours plus. In that sense, you will spend at least 3 days for your gorilla trek tour to – one travelling to Bwindi, another doing the gorilla trekking and the other driving back to Kampala/Entebbe. If a tour operator is making you a tour package, he/she will definitely have to consider this cost and include it in your tour cost.

However, the long drive to Bwindi is quite entrancing with great sceneries all through like the Equator at Kayabwe, Lake Mburo National Park, terraced mountains with flowing rivers, and a lot of rural Africa. This is not so really the case for the drive from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park.

Some tourists have also opted for flying over from Entebbe to towns near to Bwindi National Park (Kihihi and Kisoro) to track the gorillas. A round flight ticket costs $300 with AeroLink Uganda. In that case you will need to arrange your transfer from the airstrip to Bwindi, and back as well

You will certainly need to spend more on transport and time to track the mountain gorillas in Uganda than it’s for Rwanda although this cost is compensated for by a cheaper gorilla permit most especially in the low season( April, May and November) where the gorilla permit will go down up to US$350.

At the end of the day – the ultimate jury are those who are looking as to which country to visit in order to track Gorillas – it is not Rwanda, not Uganda but where their pockets and hearts choose. If you precisely want the mountain gorillas and nothing else, go for a one-day gorilla trek especially in Rwanda but if you are a one who wants it and all of it, go for the long drive in Uganda – you won’t regret.

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Planning an Adventurous Uganda Safari

You should really go on a Uganda safari; you will have the time of your life. If you love adventure and love seeing beautiful wild life in its natural habitat you are sure to love the amazing views of Uganda. Here people can enjoy the natural surroundings of savanna vegetation, tropical rain-forests in western Uganda and even semi arid areas especially in northern part of Uganda. This actually provides beautiful scenery be one with the nature to a variety of national parks, games reserves. Such national parks include queen Elizabeth national park which is understandably Uganda’s most popular tourist destination

The natural beauty of Uganda is unmatchable. People enjoy visiting Uganda to have an experience which they do not forget throughout their life.Here one gets to see gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural surroundings.

Their safaris are all very fun to go on and you will be able to experience things that few people can say that they have. Uganda safaris as a Uganda’s aggregate tourist potentials are a source of wholesome entertainment with a good deal of adventure in both its life style in flora and fauna.

Actually in Uganda, people can enjoy the natural surroundings of savanna vegetation, tropical rain-forests in western Uganda and even semi arid areas especially in northern part of Uganda. This actually provides beautiful scenery be one with the nature to a variety of national parks, games reserves. Such national parks include queen Elizabeth national park which is understandably one of Uganda’s most popular tourist destination

You will see such great wild life and gaming views that it will take your breath away. The beautiful mountain gorillas of Uganda are an endangered species and being able to see one of these beautiful creatures is truly breath taking.

Discover the ancient skill of fire making as two villagers compete to create frames and observing how exhaustive the exercise is. One actually learns through music and dance with an interpreter presents each performance, translating the words of the songs and explaining the stories in the drama. Several women in the group are widows as their husbands were poachers. The performances give both married widowed women the chance to uplift their social, cultural and economic status.

One can also have cultural adventures in Uganda for example Amazing community members that are too old or confirm to dance are given wooden puppets so that everyone in the community can join. The spectacular live traditional performances accompanied by the music of traditional drums, a flute and a wooden xylophone called Ndere, which can be played up to four skilled musicians at a time.

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How to Get a Good Deal On Uganda Car Hire

Renting are car to drive your self is one of the best way to explore the goodies of Uganda. The pearl of Africa is one of the best locations/destinations to pay a visit before to end of your life. The country is found on continent Africa in the East. With over ten national parks and many more things, Uganda is worthy a visit. Although many people hire care for their self drives, the end up spending much than what they would have paid on there rental car. Below are some of the tips to bare in mind for cheap, budget or good deals on car hire.

Shop the Internet

Look at multiple independent travel sites (three popular ones are Uganda self drive, Car Rental Uganda and 4×4 Uganda Car Hire) and then review three car rental Web pages. Because of special arrangements, you’ll often find that one of the travel or car company sites will have a better deal. Note these companies will provide you with different prices so you will opt to book with the one with the low prices.

Ask about discounts

Most of the Uganda car rental or any other company, do give discounts to their customers. So it would this would be the best option for hires who want to hire cars at low prices as you bargain with the hirer. This on the offer give to those who book for a week and more days.

Time your reservation

Everything’s a trade off. By reserving early, you lock in your car and your rate. But if you rent your car before you book your airline or hotel, you might miss out on a reciprocal deal. So do a little research and ask a few questions before you book.

If you want to book during peak periods, such as long holiday weekends, reserve six weeks ahead or you’ll be blocked out ending up for last time booking which tend to be hire than the pre bookings since you will have no second option. At other times of the year, the lead time varies with the company, but a couple of weeks is fine.

Consider how long you need the car

Although you need the car for only two days, you might get a better price if you rent it for longer. Don’t be afraid to look at a weekly rate, It’s sometimes cheaper compared to a four- or five-day rental.

Look beyond the big guys

Be willing to investigate lesser-known agencies. There are many secondary brands that deliver a quality car at a competitive rate that are not necessarily household names. These are always on the second and third page of google search. And if you like the staff or cars at one agency and the prices at another, ask your preferred agent to match a competitor’s price. The worst that can happen is a “no” and you lose nothing.

Compare non-airport rates.

In general, prices have gotten more expensive at airports, you must asked for an airport pick up from you preferred car rental company which is free for most of the companies.

Shop the counters

If you show up in the country without a rental reservation don’t be afraid to go counter to counter comparing deals. “You’ll be amazed as the difference can be up to 50 percent at the same location.

Think about where and when you want to return the car

If you want to leave your car in a place other than where you rented it, you need to include drop-off charges in your shopping. It some cases a higher daily rate that offers lower drop-off fees might be cheaper.

Book ahead if you have a special request

Need a child safety seat, camping gears, GPS, or a ski rack? Reserve it at the same time you reserve your car. Ask about extra charges and get it in writing.

Ask about mileage

Except for a few, most companies in Uganda give an offer of Unlimited mileage. Though the price for someone who will be in Kampala will be lower than that of Gulu.

Consider gas and insurance

These two items can add to the cost of your rental car. Unless you know you’re going to be scrambling when you drop off the car, offer to fill the tank yourself. Otherwise, it’s usually a pretty pricey fill-up at the rental office’s pump and you can’t take any left over with you.

As for insurance, talk to your own agent first. “Be sure you know what your own auto coverage are regarding renting a vehicle. Most customers don’t know or understand the rental coverage offered at the counter or how their own insurance will treat a rental car. Cars being provided to you in Uganda have comprehensive insurance but this insurance covers only the car so you are advice to have a travel insurance. Are you planning to hire a car on budget, or relatively cheaper price, just click here.

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