Frequently Asked
Questions

You can book by filling out our online booking form, emailing us at reservations@voyagecrafterslimited.com, or by sending us a WhatsApp message on +256 779 122 114. We recommend booking at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for gorilla trekking permits which sell out quickly.

We require a 30% deposit to confirm your reservation and secure your gorilla or chimpanzee permits. The remaining 70% is due 30 days before your safari start date. For last-minute bookings (within 30 days), full payment is required upfront.

We accept bank transfers (USD, EUR, GBP), Western Union, and Mobile Money (MTN/Airtel Uganda). Credit card payments can be arranged — please contact us for details. All prices are quoted in USD.

Cancellations made 60+ days before departure: full refund minus bank charges. 30–59 days: 50% refund. Under 30 days: no refund. Please note that gorilla and chimpanzee permits are non-refundable once purchased, as these are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellations.

Absolutely. Custom itineraries are our speciality. Whether you want to combine Uganda with Rwanda or Kenya, extend a tour, change accommodation levels, or focus on a specific experience like birdwatching or photography, we can design a safari around your exact needs. Contact us to start planning.

As of 2025, gorilla trekking permits in Uganda cost $800 per person per trek, set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). This includes park entry and the services of a professional guide. Only 8 visitors are allowed per gorilla family per day, so permits are limited and should be booked well in advance.

Gorilla trekking involves hiking through dense forest at altitude (1,400–2,500m). Treks can last anywhere from 1 to 8 hours depending on where the gorilla family is located. You don't need to be an athlete, but a reasonable level of fitness helps. We can arrange porters ($15–20) to carry your bag and assist you, which we recommend for anyone who finds hiking strenuous.

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years old. This rule is set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority to protect the gorillas, as children may be unpredictable around wildlife. There is no upper age limit — gorilla trekking is possible at any age with good health.

Once you locate the gorilla family, you are permitted exactly one hour in their presence. This rule exists to minimise stress on the gorillas and protect them from human-transmitted diseases. You must stay at least 7 metres from the gorillas at all times (though they don't always respect this rule themselves!).

Wear long-sleeved shirts and long trousers in neutral or dark colours (khaki, olive, brown). A waterproof jacket is essential — the forest is called "Impenetrable" for good reason. Sturdy waterproof hiking boots are a must. Bring gardening gloves to grab vegetation on steep sections, and gaiters to keep ants out of your boots. Avoid bright colours and perfume.

All our safaris use customised 4x4 Toyota Land Cruiser or Safari Land Cruiser vehicles with pop-up roofs for game viewing. Each vehicle is equipped with seatbelts, charging ports, a cool box, and first aid kit. Our drivers are licensed professional guides with extensive knowledge of Uganda's parks and wildlife.

Uganda can be visited year-round, but the best times are during the two dry seasons: June to September (long dry season) and December to February (short dry season). During these months, trails are drier, wildlife is easier to spot, and the weather is more predictable. Gorilla trekking happens year-round regardless of season.

Our standard packages include mid-range lodge accommodation with private en-suite bathrooms. We can upgrade to luxury tented camps or lodges, or adjust to budget bandas and campsites upon request. All accommodation types include breakfast. Dinner and lunch arrangements are specified per itinerary. We'll always tell you exactly what's included before you book.

WiFi is available at most lodges but can be slow or intermittent in remote areas like Bwindi and Kidepo. We recommend purchasing a local MTN or Airtel Uganda SIM card (available at Entebbe Airport) with a data bundle for connectivity on the road. Signal is generally good along main routes but limited in deep park areas.

The local currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). US Dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas and often preferred. ATMs (Stanbic, DFCU, Centenary Bank) are available in Kampala, Entebbe, and major towns but not in remote parks. We recommend withdrawing cash before leaving Kampala. Avoid old or damaged USD notes — banks may refuse them.

Yes. A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is legally required to enter Uganda. You will be asked to present it at the airport. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel. The vaccine is valid for life. This is non-negotiable — without it, you can be denied entry or vaccinated on arrival at significant cost.

Yes, malaria is present throughout Uganda and anti-malarial medication is strongly recommended. Consult your doctor or a travel health clinic at least 4–6 weeks before departure. Common options include Malarone (Atovaquone/Proguanil), Doxycycline, or Lariam. Use DEET-based insect repellent and sleep under a mosquito net provided by your lodge.

Uganda is generally considered safe for tourists, particularly in Kampala, Entebbe, and the major national parks. Petty theft can occur in urban areas — use the same common sense you would anywhere. Our guides are experienced and will brief you on local safety at every destination. We monitor conditions continuously and follow all Uganda Tourism Board guidelines.

Travel insurance is not mandatory but is strongly recommended. Look for a policy that covers: medical evacuation (essential in remote areas), trip cancellation and curtailment, lost luggage, and personal liability. Given that gorilla permits are non-refundable, ensure your policy specifically covers trip cancellation. We can recommend trusted travel insurance providers.

Most nationalities require a visa to enter Uganda. The East Africa Tourist Visa ($100) gives you access to Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda for 90 days and is excellent value for multi-country trips. Apply online before travel at visas.immigration.go.ug. East African Community citizens (Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi) do not need a visa. Always check the latest requirements with your nearest Ugandan embassy.

Uganda uses 240V electricity with British-style 3-pin plug sockets (Type G). Bring a universal adapter if you're coming from the US, Europe, or elsewhere. Power cuts (load shedding) can occur, but most lodges have backup generators. Charge your devices whenever you get the chance in remote areas.

English is the official language of Uganda and is widely spoken in cities, tourist areas, lodges, and parks. Luganda is the most widely spoken local language in central Uganda. Swahili is understood in many areas. Our guides all speak fluent English, and many speak additional European languages. Learning a few Luganda greetings ("Oli otya?" — How are you?) will delight your hosts.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. General guidelines: Driver-guide: $10–20 per person per day. Lodge/camp staff: $5–10 per person per day (left in a communal tip box). Gorilla porters: $15–20 per trek. Boat crew: $3–5 per person. Bring small USD bills for tips — $1, $5, and $10 notes are ideal.