Travel info

 

Travel Info

ABOUT UGANDA

Welcome to Uganda — Host Destination for Africa’s Two-in-One Mega Expo

Utalii Africa Tourism & Investment Expo & Africa Franchise Expo

As you prepare to attend Africa’s Two-in-One Mega Expo—bringing together the Utalii Africa Tourism & Investment Expo and the Africa Franchise Expo—we are delighted to welcome you to Uganda, proudly known as the “Pearl of Africa.”

Strategically located in the heart of East Africa, Uganda is a vibrant, land-linked gateway to regional trade, tourism, and investment opportunities. The country borders Kenya to the east, South Sudan to the north, Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, and Rwanda and Tanzania to the south—making it an ideal meeting point for continental collaboration and business expansion.

A Destination of Extraordinary Natural Beauty

From the moment you arrive, Uganda offers an unforgettable first impression: rich biodiversity, warm hospitality, and a dynamic cultural energy that reflects the country’s growing prominence as both a tourism and investment destination.

Uganda’s southern region embraces a substantial portion of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake and the world’s second-largest freshwater lake—shared with Kenya and Tanzania. The country is also home to the legendary Source of the Nile in Jinja, one of Africa’s most iconic destinations and a symbol of exploration and discovery.

Spanning 236,580 square kilometers, Uganda presents a breathtaking mosaic of landscapes—from sparkling lakes and lush islands to dramatic rivers and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can experience:

  • The snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains (Mountains of the Moon) in western Uganda
  • The ancient volcanic majesty of Mount Elgon, one of the oldest volcanoes on Earth
  • The dense tropical wilderness of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the world-renowned mountain gorillas
  • The serene beauty of Lake Bunyonyi, a tranquil mountain retreat famous for its panoramic views and freshwater delicacies
  • The spectacular Murchison Falls National Park, where the Nile surges dramatically through a narrow gorge
  • The rugged wilderness of Kidepo Valley National Park, known for its dramatic desert landscapes and exceptional wildlife

A Premier Wildlife Destination

Uganda is one of Africa’s most rewarding safari destinations. Among its highlights is Queen Elizabeth National Park, where visitors can encounter four of Africa’s Big Five, vibrant flocks of flamingos, and the rare tree-climbing lions of Ishasha.

Yet Uganda’s most iconic experience remains mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park—a once-in-a-lifetime encounter that draws travelers and conservationists from around the globe.

Beyond Business: Experience Uganda

As delegates and exhibitors, your time in Uganda offers more than professional networking and market opportunities—it is an invitation to discover one of Africa’s most authentic and captivating destinations.

Whether exploring investment prospects, building franchise partnerships, or showcasing innovations at the Expo, we encourage you to extend your stay and experience Uganda’s unmatched natural beauty, cultural richness, and genuine hospitality.

No matter where your journey takes you in Uganda, one thing is certain: you will leave inspired—and with a desire to return.

Welcome to Uganda. Welcome to the Pearl of Africa.

 

 

VISA INFO

Travel & Visa Information for Delegates and Exhibitors

Utalii Africa Tourism & Investment Expo & Africa Franchise Expo – Uganda

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey to Uganda for Africa’s Two-in-One Mega Expo—the Utalii Africa Tourism & Investment Expo and Africa Franchise Expo—please review the following important immigration and entry requirements before travelling.

Passport Requirements

All international delegates and exhibitors must travel with:

  • A valid passport with at least six (6) months validity from the date of entry into Uganda
  • At least one blank passport page for immigration endorsements

Please verify your passport validity well in advance to avoid travel disruptions.

Uganda Visa Requirements

Effective 1 July 2016, visas and residence permits are no longer issued on arrival at Entebbe International Airport.

All travelers requiring entry authorization must apply online in advance through Uganda’s official Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC) portal:

Official Uganda E-Visa & Immigration Portal:
https://visas.immigration.go.ug/

Applicants are strongly advised to complete their visa or permit applications at least two (2) weeks prior to travel.

Immigration services available online include:

  • Tourist visas
  • Business visas
  • Work permits
  • Residence permits
  • Special passes and entry permits

Visa Fees

Single Entry Tourist Visa

  • Fee: US$50
  • Suitable for most delegates and exhibitors attending the Expo

East Africa Tourist Visa (Recommended for Multi-Country Travel)

Uganda is part of the East Africa Tourist Visa program alongside Kenya and Rwanda, making it an excellent option for visitors planning regional business or leisure travel.

East Africa Tourist Visa Details:

  • Fee: US$100
  • Validity: 90 days
  • Entry type: Multiple entry
  • Covers travel to: Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda

Important: If applying before travel, your first point of entry must be the country through which you submitted your visa application.

Length of Stay & Immigration Compliance

Please note that visa issuance does not automatically determine the length of stay permitted in Uganda. The final authorized duration of stay is decided by the immigration officer at your port of entry and typically ranges from two weeks to three months.

To avoid penalties or travel interruptions:

  • Carefully check the entry stamp and authorized stay period in your passport
  • Ensure your visa or permit remains valid throughout your stay
  • Apply for extensions early if needed

Ugandan immigration may impose overstay fines of up to US$100 per day, and in some cases travelers may be detained until fines are settled.

Visa Extensions

If you need to extend your stay, applications can be made at:

Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control Headquarters
Jinja Road, Kampala, Kampala

Additional Immigration Information

For official immigration guidance, updates, and permit information, please visit:

Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC)

Travel Smart, Arrive Prepared

We encourage all delegates and exhibitors to complete travel documentation early to ensure a seamless arrival and enjoyable participation in Africa’s Two-in-One Mega Expo.

We look forward to welcoming you to Uganda—the Pearl of Africa.

 

LIST OF VISA FREE COUNTRIES

For the Utalii Africa Tourism & Investment Expo and Africa Franchise Expo, it’s important to clarify that Uganda generally no longer issues standard visas on arrival at Entebbe International Airport. Most travelers from visa-required countries must obtain an approved e-Visa before departure through Uganda’s official immigration portal:
Uganda e-Visa Portal

However, nationals of visa-exempt countries do not need a visa and may enter Uganda directly upon arrival with a valid passport. These countries are:

Visa-Exempt Countries (No Visa Required for Entry into Uganda)

East Africa & Africa

  • Botswana
  • Burundi
  • Comoros
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo
  • Eritrea
  • Gambia
  • Ghana
  • Kenya
  • Lesotho
  • Madagascar
  • Malawi
  • Mauritius
  • Mozambique
  • Rwanda
  • Seychelles
  • Sierra Leone
  • South Sudan
  • Eswatini
  • Tanzania
  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe

Europe

  • Cyprus
  • Ireland
  • Malta

Asia

  • Malaysia
  • Singapore
  • Hong Kong SAR

Caribbean & Americas

  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Bahamas
  • Barbados
  • Belize
  • Grenada
  • Jamaica
  • Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
  • Trinidad and Tobago

Pacific Islands

  • Fiji
  • Solomon Islands
  • Tonga
  • Vanuatu

Important Note for All Delegates & Exhibitors

Even if you are eligible for visa-free entry, all travelers should carry:

  • A passport valid for at least 6 months
  • At least one blank passport page
  • A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate (required for entry into Uganda)

For delegates from countries not listed above, please apply for your Uganda visa online at least two weeks before travel to ensure smooth entry for the Expo.

 

 

 

 

 

HEALTH & CARE

Health & Medical Advisory for Delegates and Exhibitors

Utalii Africa Tourism & Investment Expo & Africa Franchise Expo – Uganda

Your health, safety, and wellbeing are important as you prepare to attend Africa’s Two-in-One Mega Expo in Uganda. To ensure a safe and comfortable visit, we encourage all delegates and exhibitors to review the following health and medical guidance before travel.

Mandatory Yellow Fever Vaccination

A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is compulsory for entry into Uganda and may be requested by immigration or health authorities upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport. Please ensure you receive your vaccination well before departure and carry your International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card) with your travel documents.

Medical Insurance & Emergency Coverage

All international visitors are strongly advised to secure comprehensive travel health insurance before departure.

Your insurance should ideally include:

  • Overseas medical treatment coverage
  • Emergency hospitalization
  • Medical evacuation and repatriation
  • Trip interruption or emergency travel support

Important: Many healthcare providers in Uganda require cash payment at the point of service, even when you hold international insurance. Supplemental insurance that includes medical evacuation is highly recommended, particularly for travelers with pre-existing conditions or specialized medical needs.

 

Healthcare Facilities in Uganda

Uganda has several reputable private medical facilities, particularly in Kampala, but visitors should be aware that medical infrastructure may be limited outside major urban centers.

Key considerations:

  • Medical facilities are generally equipped to handle minor illnesses and emergencies
  • Advanced surgical care and specialist services may be limited
  • Blood supplies can sometimes be insufficient
  • Outside Kampala, hospitals and clinics may offer only basic healthcare services

Delegates traveling beyond the capital for tourism or site visits should plan accordingly.

Prescription Medication Guidance

If you travel with prescription medicines, please:

  • Carry all medications in their original packaging
  • Bring a copy of your doctor’s prescription or medical letter
  • Pack enough medication for the duration of your stay
  • Bring essential preventive medicines, including any recommended anti-malarial medication

Availability of certain international pharmaceuticals may be limited locally.

Health Considerations & Preventive Precautions

As with many tropical destinations, travelers should take sensible health precautions during their stay. Diseases known to occur in Uganda include:

  • Malaria
  • Yellow fever
  • Typhoid fever
  • Tuberculosis
  • Poliomyelitis
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Meningitis
  • Ebola virus disease and Marburg virus disease (rare, monitored)
  • Pneumonic plague (rare and localized)

Malaria Prevention

Uganda is a malaria-risk country. Delegates are encouraged to:

  • Consult their doctor about anti-malarial medication before travel
  • Use mosquito repellent
  • Wear long sleeves in the evening
  • Sleep in accommodations with mosquito protection where possible

 

Freshwater Swimming Advisory (Schistosomiasis / Bilharzia)

Travelers should be cautious when swimming in lakes or untreated freshwater bodies, including Lake Victoria and Lake Bunyonyi, due to the risk of Schistosomiasis (bilharzia), a parasitic infection that can enter through intact skin.

If you choose to swim in freshwater:

  • Seek medical advice after travel
  • Ask your healthcare provider about Praziquantel, the standard preventive treatment
  • Testing can also be done at a tropical medicine clinic after returning home

Travel Well, Stay Safe

With simple precautions and proper preparation, Uganda offers a safe and rewarding experience for business travelers and visitors alike.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Utalii Africa Tourism & Investment Expo and Africa Franchise Expo—and to your unforgettable stay in Uganda, the Pearl of Africa.

 

MONEY

Currency, Banking & Payment Information for Delegates and Exhibitors

Utalii Africa Tourism & Investment Expo & Africa Franchise Expo – Uganda

To help you prepare for a smooth and convenient stay during Africa’s Two-in-One Mega Expo, we encourage all delegates and exhibitors to familiarize themselves with Uganda’s local currency and payment systems.

Local Currency

The official currency of Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX).

Foreign currencies can be easily exchanged at:

  • Licensed banks
  • Authorized foreign exchange bureaus
  • Major hotels (limited services)

The US Dollar (USD) is the most widely accepted foreign currency for exchange, while Euros (EUR) and British Pounds Sterling (GBP) are also commonly accepted.

Important Note for U.S. Dollar Holders

If traveling with U.S. currency, please note:

  • Most banks and exchange bureaus do not accept U.S. dollar notes printed before 2006
  • Newer, clean, undamaged notes are strongly recommended
  • US$50 and US$100 bills typically receive the most favorable exchange rates
  • Smaller denominations may attract lower exchange rates or may not be accepted by some providers

 

Cash Payments: Highly Recommended

Delegates should be prepared to pay for many expenses—including some travel-related services—in cash, particularly outside major hotels and urban business centers.

Traveler’s checks are generally not accepted in Uganda.

Carrying a combination of cash and bank cards is advisable for maximum flexibility.

 

 

ATMs & Card Access

International ATMs are increasingly available in Kampala and other major cities.

Important ATM guidance:

  • Most ATMs primarily accept Visa cards
  • Mastercard acceptance may be limited, though it is often available at ATMs operated by Stanbic Bank Uganda and Standard Chartered Uganda
  • Some ATMs may only serve customers of specific Ugandan banks
  • Notify your bank before travel to avoid international transaction blocks

 

Credit & Debit Card Payments

Credit cards are accepted at:

  • International hotels
  • Many restaurants
  • Shopping malls and large grocery stores
  • Select business venues in Kampala and major cities

However, card acceptance may be limited elsewhere.

Card Processing Fees

Please be aware that many businesses apply a card transaction surcharge, often passed partly or fully to the customer:

  • Visa: approximately 5.5%
  • Other cards: approximately 6%

Whenever possible, confirm accepted payment methods and any applicable fees in advance.

 

Money Transfer Services

International money transfer services are widely available, including:

  • Western Union
  • MoneyGram

These services can be accessed in Kampala and many regional towns should emergency transfers be required.

 

Banking Hours

Typical business and banking hours in Uganda are:

Banks:

  • Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Saturday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Shops & Offices:

  • Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Lunch breaks are common between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM

 

Recommended Financial Preparation Checklist

Before traveling to the Utalii Africa Tourism & Investment Expo and Africa Franchise Expo, we recommend that you:

✔ Carry sufficient newer U.S. dollar notes or local currency
✔ Bring a Visa-enabled debit or credit card
✔ Inform your bank of international travel plans
✔ Confirm payment options with hotels and service providers in advance
✔ Keep access to emergency money transfer options

 

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EXHIBITION FORM

You need to Exhibit, Fill the form below:

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Application and Registration Form

Please note that that your registration is not an invitation but an opportunity to consider your application as a hosted buyer. Successful applicants will be notified within 5 working.

Please, complete this form:

Personal Information
Business Information
Business Type (Check all that apply):
Primary Business focus (Check all that apply):
Your Role in Decision Making (Check all that apply):
Annual Revenue (Approximate)
Interest in African, Africa Diaspora & OIC Member Countries Tourism Which African regions or countries are you most interested in? (Check all that apply):
What types of products and services are you interested in sourcing or promoting? (Check all that apply):
Business Experience & References
Please provide a brief description of your company’s experience in the tourism industry. (Max 200 words)
Have you attended previous tourism trade shows or events?
If yes, please provide details of the most recent event you attended (Name of Event, Year, and Location):
Please provide one or two references from previous tourism suppliers or clients:
Name:
Company:
Contact Email:
Contact Phone:
Relationship:
Terms and Condition
By submitting this application, I acknowledge that:
  • I am a key decision-maker or senior professional in the tourism industry.
  • I commit to attending the Utalii Africa Tourism Expo 2025 if selected as a Hosted Buyer.
  • I will actively participate in networking and business matching activities.
  • I understand that the event organizers will use the information provided in this application solely for Hosted Buyer selection and coordination purposes.
  • I consent to the use of my business name and contact details in marketing materials related to the event.

Media Accreditation Form

Please, complete this form:

Book a Stand

We are thrilled to have you amongst our exhibitors at UATE2025. Our mission is to help you stand out, showcase your offering, and to engage with Intra-African Tourist experts.

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