Comprehensive Arrival and Departure Entebbe Airport Information
Practical Entebbe International Airport-Essential Tourist Information
Entebbe International Airport – Essential Information for Tourists: Before your journey to Entebbe International Airport,, keep a few essential things in mind to ensure a hassle-free experience.
First and foremost, make sure you have all your necessary travel documents, such as your passport and travel itinerary, readily accessible. These documents are crucial for smooth immigration and customs procedures.
Additionally, it’s essential to be mindful of local customs and culture. Uganda boasts a rich and diverse heritage, and respecting local traditions will enhance your travel experience. Familiarize yourself with basic cultural norms, such as greetings and appropriate behavior, to show appreciation for the local culture.
We recommend checking out our advice and tips to make your arrival at Entebbe International Airport seamless. This information will provide valuable insights into airport procedures, transportation options, and any specific guidelines or regulations to be aware of upon arrival.
By being well-prepared and informed, you can start your Ugandan adventure on the right foot, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience from the moment you arrive in Entebbe.
Entebbe International Airport – Essential Information for Tourists.
Welcome to Entebbe International Airport (EBB), your gateway to Uganda, the Pearl of Africa! We’re excited to provide you with essential information to enhance your journey.
The airport has recently undergone significant upgrades aimed at improving your travel experience. Please note that access to the Departure area has changed; drop-offs and pick-ups at the entrance are no longer allowed. For your safety and security, we recommend walking to and from the parking lot for both Departures and Arrivals.
While Entebbe Airport may not be extravagant, it is functional and continues to evolve to accommodate increasing passenger numbers. Many regular travelers appreciate its unique charm. Additionally, a second international airport is being built in the Hoima area.
Our dedicated airport staff, including immigration and customs personnel, are here to assist you. While some bureaucratic processes may exist, everyone is committed to providing a smooth experience.
Now that you’ve arrived, a world of adventure awaits you beyond the Arrivals area. Your unforgettable African Dream Safari is about to begin, and we can’t wait to welcome you back to the Pearl of Africa on your next visit!
Current Entebbe International Airport-Arrival-Departure Information for Tourists
What is the best way to get to Uganda?
Traveling to Uganda by air is the most common choice and the most convenient way to begin your adventure in the Pearl of Africa. Your journey starts at Entebbe International Airport (EBB), the main gateway connecting Uganda to the world.
A diverse range of airlines operates flights to Entebbe, providing travelers from around the globe with various options. Major international carriers such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Ethiopian Airlines make reaching Uganda from distant continents possible. At the same time, regional favorites like Kenya Airways and RwandAir offer seamless connections from neighboring countries. Other notable airlines serving Entebbe include South African Airways, Turkish Airlines, and EgyptAir, all contributing to the extensive range of travel options available.
Since 2019, Uganda Airlines made a significant comeback, offering essential domestic and regional flights. This airline connects you to popular East African destinations like Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, Nairobi, and Mombasa. It is also expanding its fleet to include long-haul routes, making international travel even easier.
Looking to the future, Uganda is constructing a second international airport in the Hoima area, which promises to further enhance travel options and connectivity. With these developments, flying to Uganda has never been more accessible, paving the way for an unforgettable journey filled with rich experiences and breathtaking landscapes.
Read more about getting to Uganda.
Those in Tourism look forward to when direct flights (or one-stop flights) to North America become a reality.
Entebbe International Airport – Essential Information for Tourists.
What must you know about arrival at Entebbe International Airport – Uganda?
- What about my Passport? A Valid Passport issued by your country of origin is suitable for at least six months.
- You will need a Ugandan or East African Visa. Either must be obtained online before arrival at Entebbe International Airport. Read more here about the Ugandan Visa.
- What forms do I need to fill out? The arrival Card you received on the Airplane is filled out – extra copies are available in the Immigration area for Arrivals.
- Are there any health screenings for arriving passengers? Yes, there are. They are handled by professional health professionals who are efficient and courteous.
- Is a Yellow Fever Certificate still required? Yes, the Yellow Fever Certificate is yet needed. It is a precautionary measure that no Yellow Fever is brought into Uganda. There is no Yellow Fever in Uganda, but the country is a part of the worldwide Yellow Fever Zone that spans the globe. Read more about the Yellow Fever certificate here.
- Do I need to show a Return Ticket? A Return Ticket to your country of origin may be asked for. This is usually
not done, but it can be.
- Will I be asked if I have enough money with me? Enough funds or ways to obtain funds may be asked for. If you are on a prepaid safari with a tour operator like us, this is not a problem.
- Is there a limit to how much money I can bring into Uganda? There is no limit to how much money you can get into Uganda, and substantial amounts should be declared.
- Will I have to show my Safari Itinerary? Safari Itinerary with Kabiza Wilderness Safaris can be helpful with our address. Usually, this is not asked for, but it is good to have handy when going through Immigration.
- What about my luggage? After you have passed through Immigration, it is time to pick up your luggage. Unlike other African Airports, there is minimal pilferage of your luggage at Entebbe International Airport. You can pick up a free baggage cart and proceed to the carousel, where the flight’s luggage starts rolling in. Pick your bags, and the last procedure will be custom. In the rare case of lost, missing, or delayed baggage, report it immediately – we have put together a page of suggestions for lost luggage and continuing with your Safari.
- How do I deal with Customs on arrival? This is the last procedure, and usually, a Tourist is not asked to open
bags. Your Bags may be scanned. Entebbe has the reputation of being a transit point for contraband from drugs to ivory. You can bring 400 cigarettes or 500 grams of tobacco—one bottle of spirits or wine, 2 1/2 liters of beer, and 1oz of perfume. Customs have become stricter over the years, focusing on smuggled items, especially drugs. - Uganda has become a transit point for drugs, and Uganda is also a transit point for the illegal wildlife trade. Uganda Customs, under Uganda Revenue, has risen to frequent arrests.
- Where can I obtain Ugandan Currency? If you need Ugandan Shillings (UGX), you can get them using an ATM in the arrivals lounge, and you will receive the withdrawal in Uganda Shillings. A Visa card is the most widely accepted Card. Our Tour Guide can also take you to a Forex Bureau away from the Airport for better exchange rates than at the Airport.
- Where is the Meeting area? The meeting area for tour operators, taxis, drivers, and hotel transport is outside the arrival area. Our driver guide will await you with a Kabiza Wilderness Safaris sign.
The important COVID-19 Guidelines for Visitors are found below; read them.
- foreigners) at their own cost.
What will you need to know about Departure from Entebbe International Airport?
What do I need to know about Departure from Entebbe?
- How early do I have to arrive for my flight? It is best to arrive 4 hours early for your flight home for overseas flights. There can be long line-ups – three hours is recommended, and we make sure our clients are there on time. Security is tight, and you must carry the luggage up a ramp for safety. Your luggage is scanned as you enter the departure and check-in ticketing area. Extra luggage will incur additional fees – pack wisely.
- What about Immigration? After check-in with your Airline, fill out the Immigration departure form. The immigration line may seem long, but it moves quickly since leaving is more straightforward than coming regarding the information required.
- Will I have to deal with Customs? Most souvenirs are no problem, and since our clients do not return home with hunting trophy times, they have no issues with customs. Customs scan all outgoing luggage. You have no contact with traditions unless they approach you with questions.
- Are there Duty-Free Shops? There are duty-free shops, and you can use your last Uganda shillings while buying a few things, such as a book for the plane ride, some souvenirs, or other items found in duty-free shops anywhere in the world.
- What about restaurants or a Business and First-Class Lounge? There is a restaurant here; don’t order a drink (triple the price as in town). There is
also a charming Karibuni Lounge for Business and First-Class Travelers, where snacks and beverages are served. Bathroom facilities are large and clean, and there are outlets for you to use as you freshen up for your flight home. Invitation to the lounges is made by the Airline of your choice, depending on the travel class or your Commercial relationship with it. Passengers traveling by economy can use the facility at US$35 for three hours (including drinks and snacks). We think that 35 USD is well worth it. Karibuni Lounge gives you that extra touch while waiting to board your plane for your flight home.
The departure areas have been enlarged to allow for Social Distancing and your comfort. Toilets are c; lean, and you can freshen up before flying out.
Many Flights depart during late evening and night hours. If you are on a Safari with us, we can arrange a day room where you can rest, freshen up, and have dinner before Departure.
Airport Staff – The Reality for Travelers, Tourists, and Safari-Goers:
Uganda is renowned as one of Africa’s friendliest and most welcoming countries, offering visitors a warm and hospitable experience. However, your initial encounter with immigration officials at Entebbe International Airport may not always reflect this reputation.
While many Ugandans are warm and approachable, some immigration officials may appear more task-oriented and bureaucratic. The emphasis on customer care and service may not always be evident in their training, which can be surprising for newcomers.
It’s important to remember that this experience doesn’t define every interaction you’ll have during your visit. Many travelers and tourism officials have noted this inconsistency, and a straightforward way to enhance your experience is to break the ice. A friendly smile and a cheerful greeting, such as saying “seka,” which means “smile,” can work wonders. This small gesture might elicit a surprised smile in return from the official.
It’s worth noting that encountering unfriendly immigration officials is common in many countries, including the USA, Canada, and the UK. By maintaining a positive attitude and embracing the true spirit of Ugandan hospitality, you can create a more enjoyable experience for yourself and those you meet along the way. Your warmth can create a more welcoming atmosphere, turning your journey into a memorable adventure.
The Uganda you will experience is Welcoming – Friendly, and Hospitable 
Prepare to experience Uganda’s warmth, friendliness, and hospitality. While not every visitor is welcomed by a dance troupe or offered a cup of delicious Ugandan coffee or tea, most safari-goers are pleasantly surprised by the genuine friendliness and African hospitality they encounter throughout their journey.
The reality of Uganda often exceeds tourists’ expectations. Many find themselves enchanted by the country’s charm and become repeat visitors, wishing they had come earlier. As tour operators, we have seen firsthand how the warmth of the Ugandan people leaves a lasting impression, making each safari experience truly memorable.
Get ready to embrace Uganda’s authentic hospitality. The genuine friendliness of the people will make you feel right at home. Your journey through this remarkable country will be filled with delightful encounters and experiences that surpass your expectations.
Aldous Huxley once said, “To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.” First impressions matter, and upon your arrival in Uganda, you will be greeted by smiling and welcoming immigration officials.
At Entebbe International Airport, we provide practical tourist information and updates on the latest COVID-19 rules and regulations. We have done our best to ensure you receive thorough guidance. Enjoy your stay in Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, and have a pleasant flight home. Until we meet again, bon voyage from Kabiza Wilderness Safaris!
