Reissued with updates to Crime and removal of Health concerns related to the Ebola Virus Disease outbreak.

Reconsider travel to Uganda due to crime and terrorism.  Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Country summary: There remains a threat of terrorist attacks in Uganda and throughout the region. Terrorist attacks occurred in several villages in Western Uganda in December 2022 and there were multiple bombings in and around Kampala in 2021. While the attacks did not appear to target foreign nationals, anyone can be a victim. U.S. citizens should remain alert and avoid large public gatherings. 

Violent crime, such as armed robbery, home invasion, and sexual assault, presents a serious threat to those visiting and residing in Uganda and can occur at any time, especially in larger cities, including Kampala and Entebbe, in the Karamoja region, and along Uganda’s western and northern borders.  Local police may lack appropriate resources to respond effectively to serious crime in most areas. 

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Uganda. 

If you decide to travel to Uganda: 

• Do not leave food and drinks unattended in public, especially in local clubs. 
• Remain with a group of friends in public. 
• Use caution when walking or driving at night. 
• Keep a low profile. 
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. 
• Do not open your door for people at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by foreign tourists.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable) and secure originals in your hotel safe. 
• Provide your itinerary to a family member or friend.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. 
• Review the Country Security Report for Uganda. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before planning any international travel, and read the Embassy COVID-19 page for country-specific COVID-19 information.