Practical Ways You Can Take to Avoid Being Kidnapped on Safari.
Steps you can choose to avoid being kidnapped while on a Safari in Uganda or anywhere else
How to avoid being kidnapped while on a Safari in Uganda! How can you avoid being kidnapped while on safari in Uganda or elsewhere? On April 2, 2019, the unthinkable occurred when American tourist Kimberly Sue Endicott and her driver were abducted during a game drive in Queen Elizabeth Park’s Ishasha region. This shocking event made global headlines, even drawing tweets from President Trump.
While this was the first kidnapping of a tourist in Uganda, it was an isolated incident that unfortunately led some to unfairly stigmatize the entire country. Despite this, Uganda remains one of Africa’s friendliest and most secure safari destinations.
The Ugandan government, led by President Yoweri K. Museveni, prioritizes the safety of tourists. As Ugandan tour operators, we share this commitment, creating safaris focused on safety and memorable experiences, not just profits.
No one involved in Uganda’s tourism—be it the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the police, or the military—wants a repeat of the April 2019 incident. Your safety is our top priority, ensuring a secure and enjoyable safari adventure.
How to avoid being kidnapped while on a Safari in Uganda
Practical Steps You Can Take to Stay Safe and Secure on Safari
1. Common Sense – Do not Leave Home without it:
We all possess common sense shaped by our parents, teachers, faith, and experiences. Life can feel like a game of dodgeball: the harder you try to stay in, the more you fear being knocked out, and that fear can become a reality.
Common sense, the foundation of our understanding, teaches us basic survival instincts and helps us recognize unsafe situations, even in unfamiliar environments. Travelers often engage in behaviors abroad that they would never consider at home.
Uganda is uncharted territory for many, and most visitors arrive with limited knowledge. Traveling with a local driver-guide who understands Uganda’s culture and nuances is essential.
Our driver guides, whom we affectionately call our “Guardian Angels,” have years of experience ensuring the safety and security of visitors. They implement safaris that are ot only safe but also fast and memorable. Trust in their expertise to enhance your experience in this beautiful land.
Common Sense – Do not Leave Home without it – that is the best Security Advice we can give you.
2. Be Self-Aware and Stay Focused:
Security experts emphasize that many kidnappings can be avoided by maintaining a high level of self-awareness. Always know who you are and project your strengths to those you encounter.
Familiarize yourself with your travel route, the vehicle you’ll use, and the lodges where you’ll stay. Understand the activities you’ll participate in, such as gorilla trekking and game drives.
Knowledge is key. Be informed about Uganda before you go—read local newspapers and gather relevant information.
Exude confidence. We call it the “Never Act Lost, Even If You Are” principle. Strength is respected in Africa, and how others perceive you matters. Avoid standing out; blend in. Leave expensive jewelry at home, dress appropriately, and speak softly but confidently.
Stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid distractions from your smartphone or headphones—stay present and alert. By being self-aware and informed, you can enhance your safety and enjoy your experience in Uganda to the fullest.
3. Know Before You Go to Uganda:
This is some of the best advice we can offer. Many tourists know little about the Pearl of Africa beyond “The Last King of Scotland” or “7 Days in Entebbe.” The lingering ghost of Idi Amin, often reinforced by sensational headlines, shapes misconceptions about Uganda. However, these perceptions are frequently based on the views of reporters far removed from Kampala.
As you embark on your African Dream Safari, with flights booked and your itinerary, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with Uganda. Knowledge is key to ensuring your security and well-being. Don’t leave anything to chance; arriving at Entebbe International Airport without someone to greet you can be daunting.
We provide our clients with the names and phone numbers of their drivers. It’s perfectly acceptable to ask for identification from the person meeting you.
During your stay, be aware of your hotel or lodge layout. On safari, never wander off, and avoid walking alone at night in cities like Kampala, Entebbe, and Jinja. Rest assured, your driver-guide will be with you every step of the way.
4. Do not post your Travel Plans and Safari Itinerary on social media:
Be cautious about posting your travel plans on social media. It’s not just friends and family who see your updates; potential threats, including criminals and kidnappers, may also be watching.
Avoid sharing your itinerary with anyone who doesn’t need to know, and keep critical information—such as passport copies, travel insurance details, and flight information—private. Publicly posting your travel plans can make your home a target while you’re away.
Consider sharing your experiences only after you’ve returned home. Use secure platforms like OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox to share photos and updates with friends and family instead of broadcasting them on social media.
Remember, social media can inform your friends and provide valuable information to those with ill intent. It’s wise to protect your privacy and security. Share the highlights of your safari after you’re back, ensuring that your adventures remain personal and safe.
5. Stick to the Guidelines for a Safe and Secure Safari:
We know Uganda intimately—we live and work here. Our expertise extends to the parks, secure lodges, and safe activities. We stay updated on the latest security information, guidelines, and regulations from the Ugandan Police, Military, Uganda Wildlife Authority, and Uganda Tourism Board.
Safety and well-being are our top priorities when planning your safari, not our profits. The 2019 kidnapping was an isolated incident, and we are committed to keeping it that way.
Your safety is paramount. We focus solely on Uganda, avoiding trips into the DR Congo, and we utilize armed Uganda Wildlife Authority Rangers for treks, game drives, hikes, and nature walks. We don’t recommend self-driving; instead, you’ll be accompanied by an informed driver-guide who prioritizes your safety.
For detailed security guidelines and tips, visit our site, where you’ll find information on safe safaris, gorilla treks, and travel safety for women and LGBT tourists. For the latest updates, check our Facebook page regularly.
6. Act as if you are in Control – do not be a victim:
To avoid becoming a target for those seeking financial gain, it’s essential to project confidence, even if you have to fake it initially. Act confidently, but avoid drawing attention by making boastful statements or displaying cash and expensive jewelry. Dress simply in khakis to blend in rather than stand out.
When on safari, keep your valuables in a daypack and wear comfortable shoes or boots; avoid sandals and high heels. Be polite yet assertive when interacting with strangers.
Don’t flash large sums of money when purchasing souvenirs—use local currency instead of US dollars. Opt for ATMs located in secure areas, and rely on your driver-guide for assistance.
Following these guidelines can enhance your safety and enjoy your safari experience more fully.
Uganda is and remains one of the Safest Countries in Africa for Tourists to Visit:
Staying informed about safety measures is essential to avoid being kidnapped while on safari in Uganda. In April 2019, an unfortunate incident involving the kidnapping of an American tourist and her driver raised awareness about tourist safety. This event highlighted that the criminals involved were local to Queen Elizabeth National Park, now considered one of Africa’s safest parks.
While the 2019 incident was tragic, it is not representative of Uganda. I feel relatively safe in this country compared to other parts of the world, including the USA. The tourism sector has since implemented enhanced security measures throughout the country, both within and outside national parks.
It’s essential not to overlook this serious occurrence but to understand that it has significantly improved safety protocols. I hope this information helps you enjoy your experience in the Pearl of Africa.
