Uganda, often described as the “Pearl of Africa” for its dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity, remains one of East Africa’s most popular safari destinations. Tourists flock here to see mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, track chimpanzees in Kibale, or cruise past hippos on the Nile in Murchison Falls.
But beyond its postcard beauty, Uganda faces complex security and political challenges that make safety a pressing concern for visitors. The question many travelers are asking is straightforward: Is it safe to visit?
Security concerns in context
Most trips to Uganda are trouble-free, especially when visitors stick to the main tourist circuits. Yet risks do exist. The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an extremist group with ties to the Islamic State, has staged attacks in recent years. In October 2023, two foreign tourists and their Ugandan driver were killed in Queen Elizabeth National Park — an incident that prompted heightened patrols across national parks.
“We have registered a cowardly terrorist attack on two foreign tourists and a Ugandan in Queen Elizabeth National Park,” said Fred Enanga, spokesperson for the Uganda Police Force at the time, in a briefing after the attack. “Security deployments have been increased in parks, hotels, and other public places to ensure visitors can enjoy their stay without fear.”
Petty crime is another issue, particularly in crowded urban areas like Kampala or Jinja. Pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and phone theft are common. Carjackings and armed robberies, while less frequent, have been reported, especially at night.
“Travelers should remain vigilant,” noted a recent U.S. State Department advisory. “Avoid walking after dark, use reliable transport, and keep valuables secure.”
Politics and border instability
Uganda is heading into a general election in early 2026, and analysts warn that political rallies and protests could trigger unrest. Past demonstrations have turned violent, with heavy-handed crackdowns by security forces.
Border regions also pose risks. Governments advise against travel near South Sudan and parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), citing the presence of rebel groups and armed bandits. The area around Lake Albert, close to the DRC, has been particularly volatile.
Social and health challenges
Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act of 2023 — among the harshest anti-LGBTQ laws in the world — has drawn global condemnation and raised concerns for LGBTQ travelers. The law imposes severe penalties, including the death sentence in some cases, making Uganda a difficult or unsafe destination for many.
Health is another consideration. Malaria remains widespread, and yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry. In late 2024, an outbreak of Mpox was reported, though cases have since declined. Medical care outside Kampala is limited, and many clinics require cash payment upfront.
Staying safe on the ground
Tour operators stress that preparation and awareness are key. Booking trips through established companies such as Great Lakes Safaris or Gorilla Trek Africa can provide added security and ensure compliance with local regulations.
Visitors are also advised to:
- Stick to daylight travel when possible.
- Use ride-hailing services like SafeBoda, Faras or Uber instead of unregulated motorcycle taxis.
- Keep up with travel advisories from their home governments.
- Respect local customs, dress conservatively, and avoid sensitive political discussions.
Despite the risks, Uganda continues to draw thousands of visitors each year, many leaving with stories of breathtaking wildlife encounters and warm hospitality.
“Uganda is actually a very special tourism destination, overly diverse in nature, from weather, to good organic food, to our cultures, water bodies, primates, mammals , mountains,” said Amos Wekesa, a longtime tour operator and founder, Great Lakes Safaris based in Kampala. “But like anywhere else in the world, safety depends on preparation. We always tell our clients: travel smart, don’t move alone late at night, and use reputable guides.”
“Our weather would come top for me, lake Victoria and The Nile are big opportunities, our birding life, our mountains are another, our food and cultures are massive potential and our national parks,” he added.
The bottom line
Traveling to Uganda can be safe — but it is not without risks. With careful planning, trusted guides, and situational awareness, most tourists enjoy their trips without incident. Still, political tensions, terrorism threats, and restrictive laws mean visitors should make informed choices before booking that gorilla trek.
