Uganda Safari Packing List: What to Bring

Packing for Uganda means preparing for forest, savannah and mountain conditions in the same suitcase. The key is layers, neutral colours and sturdy waterproof footwear. This checklist covers the essentials. If you are taking small aircraft, check the weight limit with us before you pack; see fly-in packages.

It is part of our Uganda travel guide; you can also use our downloadable resources.

Clothing

• Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and trousers in neutral colours (khaki, olive, grey).
• A warm layer for chilly mornings and evenings.
• A waterproof rain jacket.
• A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Swimwear for lodges with pools.

Footwear

• Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support, already broken in.
• Comfortable shoes or sandals for the lodge.
• Warm socks that wick moisture.

Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Gear

• Gardening gloves for grip on branches and thorns.
• Gaiters to keep mud and insects out.
• A small daypack, water bottle and snacks.
• A walking stick if you like one (often provided locally).

See fitness and preparation.

Camera and Gear

• A camera with a long lens if you have one, spare batteries and memory cards.
• Binoculars.
• A power adapter; see electricity and connectivity.
• A dry bag or rain cover for your camera.

Documents and Health Items

• Passport, visa and yellow fever certificate; see entry requirements.
• Insurance details and copies of important documents.
• Insect repellent, sunscreen, hand sanitiser and any regular medication; see vaccines and malaria prevention.

Luggage Tips

Use a soft bag rather than a hard suitcase, especially on fly-in safaris. Leave valuables at home, pack a spare layer in your hand luggage and keep a little room for souvenirs.

Clothing

• Neutral-coloured, quick-drying long-sleeved shirts and trousers.
• A warm fleece for mornings, evenings and the mountains.
• Waterproof jacket.
• Comfortable hiking boots and spare socks.
• Sun hat and sunglasses.
• Swimwear if your lodge has a pool.

Gear and Essentials

• Binoculars and camera with spare batteries.
• Head torch or small flashlight.
• Insect repellent and sunscreen.
• Gloves for gorilla trekking.
• Reusable water bottle and daypack.
• Copies of documents and insurance.

Avoid bright colours and camouflage clothing. Pack in a soft bag, as it is easier to load into vehicles. See power and connectivity and fitness and preparation.

Documents, Health and Small Extras

• Passport with six months validity, visa approval and insurance details.
• Prescription medicines in original packaging, plus a basic first-aid kit.
• Small day bag, waterproof bag liner and zip bags for electronics.
• Power bank and a universal adaptor.
• Cash in small notes for tips; see money and tipping.

Luggage Tips

Soft duffel bags are easier to load than hard suitcases, and small aircraft have strict weight limits. Leave non-essentials at your Entebbe hotel if you are doing a fly-in trip. Laundry services at lodges let you pack lighter. Learn about fly-in luggage limits and the health checklist.