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, remember a few essential things 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 available. These documents are crucial for smooth Immigration and customs procedures.
Additionally, being mindful of the local customs and culture is essential. Uganda has a rich and diverse heritage, and respecting the local traditions will contribute to a more positive and respectful 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 as seamless as possible. 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 entering Entebbe.
Entebbe International Airport – Essential Information for Tourists.
Welcome to Entebbe International Airport (EBB), the Gateway to Uganda, also known as the Pearl of Africa. We have gathered practical information to assist tourists, safari goers, and travelers like you.
The Airport has recently undergone upgrades to cater to the needs of passengers. Some improvements may be easily noticeable, while others are not as apparent. The process of reaching the Departure area is slightly more complex. Please note that there is no drop-off or pick-up directly at the airport entrance.
Walking to or from the parking lot for Departure and Arrival would be best. These measures are in place to prioritize your safety and security.
While Entebbe Airport may not be the most extravagant-looking building, it is highly functional and currently undergoing costly upgrades to accommodate the increasing number of passengers each year. Some of us who have been using this Airport for years have developed a fondness for it. Additionally, a second international airport is being constructed in the Hoima area.
The airport staff, including Immigration and customs personnel, are dedicated to assisting tourists arriving in or departing from Uganda. While some individuals may exhibit bureaucratic attitudes, everyone takes their responsibilities seriously.
Now that you have arrived, Uganda awaits you just beyond the Arrivals area. Your African Dream Safari is about to commence, and we are thrilled that you have chosen to embark on this adventure. We eagerly anticipate your return to the Pearl of Africa if you are departing.
Current Entebbe International Airport-Arrival-Departure Information for Tourists
What is the best way to get to Uganda?
Traveling to Uganda has become increasingly convenient in recent years, with several options for reaching the country. Numerous airlines have expanded their routes to include Entebbe International Airport, connecting Uganda to various African countries such as Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania.
Here is a list of airlines that fly to Entebbe International Airport: African Express Airways, Brussels Airlines, East African Safari Air Express Limited, Egypt Air, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Precision Air Services, Qatar Airways, RwandAir, South African Airways, and Turkish Airlines. These carriers provide a range of options for reaching Uganda from different parts of the world.
Additionally, in 2019, Uganda Airlines resumed operations, offering domestic and regional flights. Uganda Airlines allows you to fly to other East African safari destinations, including Dar es Salaam Kilimanjaro Airport in Arusha, Tanzania. They also provide flights to Nairobi and Mombasa on the Indian Ocean. Furthermore, Uganda Airlines is expanding its services to include long-haul routes by adding new Airbus planes.
Whether you choose one of the international airlines or Uganda Airlines, you have multiple options for reaching Uganda, making your journey more flexible and accessible. 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.
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, known as one of Africa’s friendliest and most welcoming countries, offers visitors a warm and hospitable experience. However, it’s important to note that your initial encounter with immigration officials in Entebbe may not always align with the reputation of Uganda’s welcoming nature.
Instead of displaying a highly relational approach, some officials may appear task-oriented and occasionally exhibit bureaucratic tendencies. The concept of customer care or customer service may not be emphasized during their training.
It’s crucial to acknowledge that this is not the case with every individual you encounter during your visit. However, our clients and tourism officials have recognized this as an issue. One way to potentially improve the situation is by breaking the ice and sharing a smile with the immigration officials. You can try saying “seka,” which means “smile” in English.
Your friendly gesture may elicit a surprised smile from the immigration official. It’s worth noting that encountering grumpy immigration officials can happen in various countries globally, including the USA, Canada, the UK, and others.
By bringing your positive attitude and embracing the welcoming spirit of Uganda, you can contribute to fostering a more positive and enjoyable experience for yourself and those you encounter throughout your journey.
The Uganda you will experience is Welcoming – Friendly, and Hospitable 
Prepare to experience a truly welcoming, friendly, and hospitable Uganda. While not every visitor is greeted by a dance troupe or offered a warm cup of 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 surpasses tourists’ expectations. Many find themselves captivated by the country’s charm and become repeat visitors, regretting not having visited earlier. As tour operators, we have witnessed firsthand how the warmth of the Ugandan people leaves a lasting impression on visitors, making their safari experience truly memorable.
So get ready to embrace the authentic hospitality of Uganda, where the people’s genuine friendliness will make you feel right at home. Your journey through this remarkable country will indeed be filled with delightful encounters and experiences exceeding your expectations.
The words of Aldous Huxley are so actual. “To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.”
Nevertheless, first impressions on arrival are essential, and by the time you arrive in Uganda, you will find smiling and welcoming Immigration officials.
Entebbe International Airport-Practical Tourist & COVID-19 Rules-Regulations: We have done our best to give you the latest and most thorough information. As things change, we will update this page. Enjoy your stay – your Safari in Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, and have a pleasant flight home…until we meet again…Bon Voyage from Kabiza Wilderness Safaris.
