Travel FAQS

Bushman safaris is a tour company that has a valid  certificate of incorporation as required by Ugandan law. The company is also a member of AUTO (Association of Uganda Tour Operators) which recognizes and controls the many tour operator companies in the country. Don’t be afraid to ask for copies of the company Certificate of registration and AUTO membership certificate. You can also check our various social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest for recent and consistent activity. Don’t be afraid to check the about us page on the front page of our website to seek information about the directions of the company offices and physical address, telephone contacts and the company profile.  Furthermore, we also provide instant and constant feedback to our clients making sure that they don’t miss out on any new product developments.

It is of our view that nobody should spend lots of money on gorilla permits only to miss out on these large primates. The good thing is that the chances of seeing these animals on a trek in Uganda is pegged at 95%. However, there are prevalent chances that you will not be able to see them and this failure can result in the tourists asking for a refund. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (or UWA) shall refund the full tracking fee if the visitor fails to track due to illness. Visitors who fail to track the gorillas as a result of their movement to the neighbouring country shall receive a full refund on their permits. Visitors who track the whole day and fail to view the gorillas for one reason or another will be refunded 75% of the tracking fee. All refunds shall be effected at the UWA headquarters in Kampala.

Ugandan culture is very hospitable; feel free to engage in small conversation with the locals; however it is usually expected to greet first, addressing things directly is considered rude. Uganda is somewhat conservative, so try not to wear anything too revealing; pants, for women are unusual in the rural areas but are generally tolerated when dealing with foreigners or people from the city.

Yes it is possible for one to design his or her own itinerary. By using our attractions feature and our interactive map found on the website, you can view the various destinations that you want to visit; send us a detailed email so that we can advise and improve on your customized ideas for better customer satisfaction.

People from most countries can get a Ugandan visa at the point of entry for $50pp. Make sure to carry your yellow fever vaccination card & valid passport. Consultation with your doctor a few days prior to your trip is important so as to avoid unsatisfactory trips.

Please note that payment of  monies necessary for the trip does not provide a guarantee

that the trip will take place as it may be cancelled for various reasons. In the event of cancellation the following provisions apply:

Cancellation made within 30 or more days prior to departure date 15-29 days prior to departure date 8-14 days prior to departure 7 days prior to departure date

Refund policy 90% is refunded 75% is refunded 50% is refunded Non refundable

Tipping is not a must but is welcome and appreciated; we suggest you tip whenever you are happy with the service.
Standard Tipping in Uganda:

Restaurants: approximately 5-10% of the total.
Hotel Porters: $3000 UGX ($1)
Driver/Guide: $10,000-$15,000 UGX ($3-$5) Per Day/Per Person

Credit cards are not widely used for commercial transactions in Uganda, however you can use your Visa card at various ATMs around Kampala. You might be able to use your credit card at major hotels. MasterCard and other primary brands are quite rare in East Africa.

Bring your passport, itinerary, prescription and preventative medicine, sunglasses, toiletries, sun blocker, animal books, camera, binoculars, proper and comfortable clothing as advised by the tour operator and a sense of humour.

The best times to view wildlife in Uganda are the Dry seasons (June to August & December to February.)

Uganda is not known for state of the art medical and insurance care. However medical services are provided by local facilities present around the major national parks. These facilities can bring much needed help for minor sickness and injuries. To avoid health issues tourists are advised to visit health professionals at least a month before the date of travel to check for any hidden ailments and whether vaccinations and preventive measures can be taken.

Yes a bushman safaris representative with a visible bushman safaris placard will be waiting for you to arrive at the the airport.

Internet access is not guaranteed while in the bush; however, some lodges do offer it.

Please check with your service provider on roaming charges while in Uganda. If you choose to get a Ugandan line, the service is generally quite good/okay in the rural areas.

The money can be paid by international wire transfer to our bushman safaris bank account or using the online payment system pesapal. We recommend international wire transfers because it is safer and the money is easier to track down.

Unfortunately travellers cheques are not allowed in Uganda!

Despite the negative press, Uganda is generally safe for gay and lesbian travellers. Uganda is also quite conservative and public display of affection or PDA of any sort, straight or gay is usually frowned upon. Discretion is advised.

Safari accommodation vary depending on the type of tourist. Tourists have to choose between luxury, budget and tented accommodation options depending on how much money they are willing to spend. They can expect 2-5 star city hotels, guesthouses, bed and breakfast accommodation, bandas, tented and mobile camps and game lodges.

Prices will depend on the type of safari but usually include airport pickup and transfer, accommodation, full board meals, bottled water, transportation to various destinations in tourist vehicles, fuel, park entrance fees, activities, permits in case of gorillas and the services of a guide.