FAQs & TRAVEL INFO

Most travellers require a visa to enter Rwanda, Uganda and Tanzania. Many nationalities can obtain visas online in advance or on arrival, and both countries also offer the convenient East Africa Tourist Visa, which allows travel between Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya on a single visa. Check with your local embassy for visa requirements and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates, with sufficient blank pages for entry stamps.

We’re happy to guide you through the process and point you in the right direction before you travel.

We recommend speaking with your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of departure for the most up to date medical advice. Yellow fever vaccination is often required for entry, and malaria prevention is recommended for most areas. Routine vaccinations should also be up to date.

Rwanda, Uganda and Tanzania have good medical facilities in major cities, but many safari areas are remote, so comprehensive travel insurance is essential. If you’re unsure what you may need, we can share general guidance and help you prepare with confidence.

Rwanda, Uganda and Tanzania are widely considered safe, welcoming and politically stable destinations for travellers. Tourism is an important part of both economies and visitors are treated with genuine warmth and respect. As with travel anywhere in the world, sensible precautions apply, such as keeping valuables secure and following your guide’s advice.

When you travel with Africa Memories, you’re supported by an experienced local team throughout your journey, with carefully vetted partners and trusted guides at every step.

East Africa is rewarding year round, but experiences can vary slightly by season. The drier months are generally considered ideal for wildlife viewing and gorilla or chimpanzee trekking, as trails are easier to navigate and animals are often easier to spot. The greener rainy seasons bring lush landscapes, fewer visitors and excellent birdlife, along with great value.

There’s no single “best” time. It really depends on your priorities, and we’ll happily advise on what suits your plans.

For many travellers, trekking to see mountain gorillas or chimpanzees is the highlight of the trip. Permits are limited and must be secured well in advance, particularly in peak seasons. Treks take place in small, guided groups and can range from gentle walks to more challenging hikes through forest and hills, depending on where the animals are located that day.

A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, but you don’t need to be an athlete. The experience is carefully managed, respectful of the animals and designed to be as safe and comfortable as possible.

We take care of all permits and logistics on your behalf, so you can simply focus on the moment.

Comfort and practicality are key. Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing works best for safari and trekking, along with sturdy walking shoes or boots, a waterproof jacket, sun protection and a small daypack. Mornings and evenings can be cool, especially in higher altitude areas such as Volcanoes or Bwindi, so layers are important.

A detailed packing list will be shared with you before departure, tailored to your specific itinerary.

Major hotels and lodges accept credit cards, but smaller properties, markets and local shops may prefer cash. We recommend carrying some US dollars or local currency for tips, small purchases and personal expenses. ATMs are available in larger towns and cities.

Most of your trip costs will be pre arranged and prepaid, so you won’t need to worry about handling money on a daily basis.

Wi-Fi is available in most lodges and hotels, particularly in cities and main safari areas, though speeds can vary in remote locations. Mobile networks are generally reliable, and local SIM cards are inexpensive and easy to arrange if you’d like data during your trip.

That said, many travellers enjoy using their time here to switch off a little and fully immerse themselves in the experience.

We believe travel should benefit the places and people you visit. We work closely with locally owned properties, guides and community initiatives, and we support conservation efforts that protect wildlife and natural habitats for future generations. Many of the experiences we include, from community visits to conservation projects, are designed to create positive impact as well as meaningful memories.

By travelling thoughtfully, you help ensure these remarkable places continue to thrive.

Every journey is different, and sometimes you just want to talk things through. If there’s anything you’re unsure about, big or small, our team is only a message or call away. We’ll guide you through the details and make sure you feel completely prepared and excited for what lies ahead.

Travel should feel effortless. We’re here to make sure it is.