Questions and Answers

Uganda uses 240-volt electricity with 3-pin square sockets, similar to the UK system.

At Nile Safari Lodge, power is supplied through solar energy. Charging points for phones and other electronic devices are available in the main living areas and within each banda.

We provide plug adaptors for guest use at Nile Safari Lodge. However, if you're continuing your journey to other lodges across Uganda, it's a good idea to bring your universal adaptor just in case.

Nile Safari Lodge is situated in Eastern Africa, in Uganda. Located in the northern region of Uganda, nestled within Murchison Falls National Park. Our lodge is positioned on the southern bank of the White Nile.

Guests can reach the lodge via road or domestic flight.

By Road
The journey from Kampala to Nile Safari Lodge takes approximately 5 hours, covering around 300 km. The recommended route is: Kampala – Masindi – Kichumbanyobo Gate – Mubako Gate (through Murchison Falls National Park). Please note that park entry fees are USD $45 per person, per day, payable via VISA or Mobile Money.

We offer vehicle transfers from Kampala to the lodge at a cost of $250, which includes fuel and a professional driver.

By Air
For those who prefer to skip the long drive, charter flights can be arranged from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi to Murchison Falls National Park. Aerolink Uganda is a reliable option for domestic flights.

The closest airstrip to the lodge is Bugungu Airstrip, just a 25-minute drive away. Alternatively, Pakuba Airstrip is about 40 minutes from the lodge. Air transfers are a convenient and scenic way to start your safari adventure.

We also have a private helicopter flight landing at the lodge.

At the lodge, safety deposit boxes are available for securing passports, travel documents, and other valuables. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewelry, and never leave your belongings unattended.

For your safety, we strongly advise not walking alone at night. Our lodge staff are always available and happy to escort you whenever needed.

Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at Nile Safari Lodge. We are dedicated to protecting Uganda’s natural heritage and uplifting the communities around us through meaningful, eco-conscious initiatives.

We proudly support anti-poaching efforts by partnering with local artisans who repurpose confiscated animal snares into striking wildlife sculptures—transforming a symbol of harm into one of hope. Additionally, we collaborate with community leaders to maintain essential infrastructure that provides access to clean water for local villages.

Our lodge operates on solar energy, minimizes the use of plastics, and emphasizes low-impact tourism. We also invest in the local economy by employing and empowering community members, fostering long-term partnerships rooted in respect and shared growth.

Read more on our commitment to Responsible Tourism

At Nile Safari Lodge, all meals are included in your stay and are thoughtfully crafted by our in-house chefs. We pride ourselves on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create delicious dishes that celebrate both continental and traditional Ugandan cuisine.

Our à la carte menu is designed to cater to a variety of tastes and dietary needs. Whether you're vegetarian, vegan, or a meat lover, you’ll find flavorful options prepared with care and creativity. If you have any special dietary requirements, simply let us know in advance and we’ll be happy to accommodate them.

Expect a unique culinary journey where each meal reflects the warmth and richness of the surrounding landscape.

Nile Safari Lodge is thoughtfully designed to be accessible and inclusive for all guests, including those using wheelchairs. Key areas of the lodge have been adapted to ensure ease of movement and comfort, so every guest can fully enjoy the natural beauty and hospitality we offer.

If you have specific accessibility needs, please let us know in advance—we’ll be happy to assist with personalized arrangements to make your stay as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

At Nile Safari Lodge, we offer a uniquely tailored safari experience in an exclusive and luxurious setting. Our diverse range of activities is designed to immerse you in the natural beauty, wildlife, and culture of Uganda.

Guests can enjoy thrilling adventures and tranquil moments alike, including:

Nile River Cruise

Fishing excursions

Scenic game drives

Brunch at the top of Murchison Falls

Bush breakfasts in the wild

Bird watching with expert guides

Chimpanzee and rhino trekking

Guided treks to Murchison Falls

Relaxing massages

Community walks for cultural immersion

Every experience is thoughtfully curated to provide a deeper connection with the landscape and its incredible wildlife—all while enjoying the comfort and elegance of our lodge.

To receive a detailed Reservation Summary, please provide the following information:

A copy of a valid ID or passport

Your check-in and check-out dates

Any additional activities or transport requirements

A valid credit card guarantee is required at the time of booking. Reservations are considered confirmed once deposits and payments have been processed in accordance with our booking terms.

To secure your stay, a 30% deposit is required.

For multiple room bookings, please ensure all guest names are submitted.

Nile Safari Lodge reserves the right to release unconfirmed bookings without prior notice if full payment is not received by the agreed deadline.

Check-in time: 13:00 hours (1:00 PM)
Early check-in may be accommodated subject to availability on the day of arrival.

Check-out time: 10:00 hours (10:00 AM)
Guests wishing to check out later may do so for an additional fee:

50% of the room rate applies for departures up to 18:00 hours (6:00 PM)

Full night’s rate applies for check-outs after 18:00 hours (6:00 PM)

We recommend coordinating your departure and arrival times in advance to ensure a smooth and comfortable stay.

Please read our full terms and conditions here

The high season runs from 1st June to 30th September and from 15th December to 29th February. These months are characterised by dry weather, making it an ideal time for safaris and outdoor activities.

The low season typically falls between 1st March to 31st May and from 1st October to 14th December, with more frequent rainfall. The rainy season brings lush greenery, providing a peaceful and scenic experience.

To enter Murchison Falls National Park, visitors must pay UWA (Uganda Wildlife Authority) fees. The fees are as follows:

Non-Residents: USD 45 per adult, USD 25 per child (5-15 years)

Foreign Residents: USD 35 per adult, USD 15 per child

Residents: UGX 25,000 per adult, UGX 10,000 per child (5-15 years)

Payment for these fees can be made at the main UWA gate using either a Visa card or Mobile Money.

To enter Uganda, you must have a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity.

A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is also required and must be presented during your visa application if a visa is needed.

Tourist visas are generally easy to obtain for single-entry visits, but multiple-entry visas can be more challenging. It’s recommended to apply for your visa in advance through the official Uganda immigration website.

Travelers from the USA, European Union, and Japan must apply for a tourist visa before their trip. This visa costs $50 and can be paid online or upon arrival at a Ugandan entry point.

Nationals from Ireland, the East African Community, and COMESA countries do not require a visa. Citizens of other countries should check the Uganda immigration website for specific requirements.

All visa applications must be submitted online. A single-entry tourist visa costs USD $50 and is valid for a stay between two weeks and three months.

For assistance or more details, contact your nearest Ugandan embassy:

• United Kingdom: Uganda House, 58/59 Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DX. Tel: +44 (0)20 7839 5783
• United States: 5811 16th Street NW, Washington DC 20011. Tel: +1 202 726 7100

Visa policies and fees may change without notice, so it's best to check the Uganda immigration website regularly. The team at Nile Safari Lodge is also happy to assist with any visa-related questions.

In Uganda, modest dressing is respected and appreciated, especially in towns and rural communities.

Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the warm temperatures on the plains. However, if you're heading to hilly or mountainous regions, be prepared for cooler weather.

Pack a mix of light clothes for the day and warmer layers such as a heavy sweater or fleece for the evenings and early mornings. A rain jacket is essential, especially during the rainy seasons, and sturdy boots are recommended if you’ll be exploring higher altitudes or going on nature treks.

Getting to Uganda is easy with a range of international airlines servicing the country, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Brussels Airlines, KLM, Egyptair, Ethiopian Airlines, African Express, and Kenya Airways.

For travel within Uganda, Aerolink offers twice-daily flights connecting key safari destinations such as Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi, and Kidepo. Fly Uganda also provides scheduled flights to these locations.

Intra-regional travel within East Africa is made easy with carriers like Kenya Airways, Regional Air, Auric Air, Coastal Aviation, Air Kenya, Safarilink, Precision Air, Uganda Airlines, and RwandAir. These airlines offer convenient connections between Uganda, Rwanda, and the renowned wildlife regions of Kenya and Tanzania.

Please remember to confirm your international and regional flights directly with the airlines, as schedules may change. It's also important to ensure your flight timings align with the start and end of your safari itinerary.

Uganda is a beautiful landlocked country located in East Africa, bordered by Kenya to the east, South Sudan to the north, the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west, Rwanda to the southwest, and Tanzania to the south.

Often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda is renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and warm, welcoming people. From the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains to the vast savannahs and lush rainforests, Uganda offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure.

It is also home to the source of the Nile River and nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.

Before traveling to Uganda, it's important to consult your healthcare provider for medical advice and to check which vaccinations you may need. A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry into Uganda and is also required during the online visa application process.

If you're based in the UK, you can contact MASTA (The Medical Advisory Service for Travellers Abroad) at +44 9068 224100 or visit masta-travel-health.com.
For travelers from the USA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides up-to-date travel health guidance at cdc.gov.

Make sure to pack a sufficient supply of any personal medication you may need. Anti-malarial medication and a good mosquito repellent are strongly recommended. Only drink bottled or boiled water during your stay.

While basic medical services are available in Uganda, especially outside urban areas, they may be limited. Be sure your travel insurance includes comprehensive medical and emergency evacuation coverage.

Having valid travel insurance is a mandatory condition for booking a stay with Nile safari Lodge. Guests are required to provide proof of adequate insurance before departure.

Your insurance policy should cover a range of essentials, including:

Personal injury

Medical expenses and emergency repatriation (in case of illness, accident, or death)

Tour cancellation or curtailment (by you or the company)

Loss, damage, or theft of personal belongings

If your itinerary includes high-risk activities like mountaineering, trekking, animal tracking on foot, or white-water rafting, make sure your policy specifically includes these.

In the event of theft, injury, or any disruptions to your plans, please report them to our team immediately. It is your responsibility to understand and adhere to the terms of your travel insurance coverage.

Your safari costs will already be included in your booking as per the reservation agreement, so only a small amount of daily spending money is needed. We recommend budgeting around US$30–50 per day for personal expenses such as tips, drinks, or souvenirs.

While ATMs are available in Kampala and most large towns, credit card acceptance is limited—particularly outside the capital. Even where cards are accepted, high surcharges may apply. For convenience, it’s best to carry some cash.

If bringing US dollars, please note that only post-2006 bills in pristine condition (no tears, stains, or markings) are accepted in Uganda. As of January 2025, 1 US Dollar is approximately 3,715 Ugandan Shillings (Jan 2025).

If you’re planning to take digital photos during your trip, be sure to bring extra batteries and memory cards. While Nile Safari Lodge provides charging facilities, having a car charger or power bank is also a smart backup.

For those using film cameras, it's best to bring all the film you’ll need, as it's rarely available for purchase in Uganda.

Please note that flash photography is not permitted near mountain gorillas or chimpanzees. Since these primates are typically found in dimly lit forest areas, we recommend using fast film (400–1600 ASA) or adjusting your digital camera settings to handle low light.

Personal video cameras are welcome, but if you're filming professionally within national parks, you'll need to apply for a commercial filming permit in advance.

Drones are strictly regulated in Uganda. Whether for personal or commercial use, drones must be properly declared and approved before entry. Failing to comply can result in serious consequences, including being denied entry into the country. Always check the latest guidelines with the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority before traveling with a drone.

Lastly, when photographing people, always ask for permission first. And remember—photography is strictly prohibited near military personnel or facilities.

Uganda is generally a safe and welcoming country for travelers. However, as with any destination, it’s wise to follow basic safety precautions and use common sense during your stay.

International phone communication works well in Kampala, though it can be more limited in remote, up-country areas. Uganda has a growing mobile network, and most safari guides carry mobile phones that can receive incoming calls.

If you’re traveling with a European or American mobile phone, it should work in Uganda provided it has international roaming. Alternatively, local SIM cards are affordable and widely available—just bring your passport to purchase one.

Internet access is common in Kampala and major towns, though connection quality can vary.

At Nile Safari Lodge, we offer free Wi-Fi, but please be aware that due to our remote location, signal strength and speeds may be inconsistent.

Uganda’s equatorial climate is one of its greatest appeals, offering pleasant temperatures on the plains ranging from 21°C to 30°C year-round. With minimal seasonal variation, Uganda is a fantastic destination at any time of the year.

In contrast, the mountainous regions are noticeably cooler—especially at night—with temperatures sometimes dipping as low as 10°C, and rainfall tends to be more frequent.

The rainy seasons usually occur from March to April and October to November, though weather can be unpredictable and rain is possible at any time, particularly in the gorilla trekking areas. While travel may be a bit slower during wet months, the views are often clearer and more vivid thanks to the rain washing away dust.

Gorilla trekking remains open year-round. It may be muddier during the rainy season, but with the right gear and the help of a porter, it’s still a highly rewarding experience.

Our best advice? Travel when it suits you best.

Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda is an unforgettable experience that takes you deep into lush forested landscapes. To ensure your comfort and safety, it’s important to dress appropriately and pack the right gear.

Recommended Clothing & Gear:

Moisture-wicking layers, including a warm fleece or lightweight wool sweater

Long-sleeved shirt and sturdy walking trousers for protection from the brush

Waterproof hiking boots suitable for steep, uneven terrain

Lightweight, breathable rain poncho or parka with a rain hat

Gardening gloves (or similar) to help grip vegetation during climbs

Sun protection: sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat

Torch (flashlight) for early morning starts or cloudy forest cover

Rechargeable batteries and/or fast film (for camera users)

Binoculars for spotting wildlife in the canopy

Small daypack to carry water, packed lunch, and essentials

Walking stick, often provided or made by your ranger guides

Trekking Tips: Temperatures can vary dramatically, especially in mountainous areas. Mornings tend to be cool, but as the day progresses and your trek climbs in elevation, it gets warmer. Rain is common, particularly in the afternoon, so dressing in layers and having rain gear on hand is essential.

Walking sticks are highly recommended for navigating steep or slippery trails. Your ranger guide can craft one for you.

Gratuities for your guide and porter are always appreciated.

We offer an unforgettable wildlife adventure with our guided game drive in Murchison Falls National Park.

Guests can explore the park in either an open-roof 4x4 safari vehicle—ideal for panoramic views and photography—or a closed van for those who prefer a more enclosed experience.

To ensure a personalised and intimate experience, all game drives are offered as exclusive bookings, meaning your group has the vehicle entirely to yourselves. The cost is fixed per vehicle and accommodates up to 9 guests, providing excellent value whether you are travelling solo, as a couple, or in a small group.

Game Drive Options:

Morning Drive: 06:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Afternoon Drive: 03:00 PM – 07:00 PM

Evening Drive: 04:00 PM – 07:30 PM

Full-Day Drive: 06:00 AM – 05:00 PM

To make your experience even more enjoyable, we offer a variety of outdoor dining options during your game drive:

Packed Breakfast: A convenient and delicious breakfast to enjoy en route during early morning game drives.

Bush Breakfast: A specially arranged meal served in the heart of the wilderness—an extraordinary way to start your day in the wild.

Packed Lunch: A fresh, travel-ready meal to sustain you during a full-day game drive through the park.

Each game drive is tailored to your preferences and schedule, ensuring a personal and immersive safari experience.

The Murchison Falls Trek is an exhilarating hike to the top of Murchison Falls, one of Uganda’s most spectacular natural wonders. The trek allows visitors to view the River Nile as it plunges 45 meters into the Devil’s Cauldron below, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding park.

The trek is priced at USD 15 per person.

Nile Safari Lodge offers a guided boat cruise along the River Nile within Murchison Falls National Park. The cruise follows a route along the river’s green and forested banks and provides a clear view of Murchison Falls, where the River Nile passes through a narrow gorge before descending into the river valley below.

The cruise is conducted on a 10-passenger boat and led by an experienced guide. 

This activity is available by exclusive booking only, with a minimum of 2 passengers and a maximum of 10 passengers per cruise.

Brunch at the Top of the Falls offers a unique dining experience with sweeping views of Murchison Falls. Guests are taken to the top of the falls to enjoy a freshly prepared brunch in a spectacular setting, with the opportunity to sip drinks while gazing at one of Uganda's most iconic landmarks.

The cost for this experience is USD 260 per person, with an additional USD 20 for extra adults and USD 10 for children.

Uganda is a birdwatcher’s paradise, and Murchison Falls National Park offers a prime location for observing a variety of species. With over 1,100 bird species in Uganda, including the rare shoebill stork, we organise bird watching tours led by a specialist guide for USD 30 per person.

This activity is ideal for those keen on observing the diverse birdlife that calls the park home.

Fishing on the River Nile is a popular activity at Nile Safari Lodge. The lodge offers both half-day and full-day fishing trips.

For a half-day trip (up to 4 hours), the pricing is

• USD 320 for 1 person,
• USD 192 per person for 2 people,
• and USD 128 per person for 3 people.

For a full-day trip (up to 8 hours), the pricing is

• USD 422 for 1 person,
• USD 260 per person for 2 people,
• and USD 178 per person for 3 people.

A fishing permit is required, at USD 50 per person.

All fishing activities are conducted on a catch-and-release basis and require advance booking.

The walking safari allows guests to experience Murchison Falls National Park from a different perspective.

Led by an experienced guide, this activity provides a chance to explore the park on foot, observe wildlife closely, and learn about the park's flora and fauna.

The walking safari offers a deeper, more immersive experience of the African wilderness.