Getting to Uganda: Entebbe Airport Arrival Guide

Most international visitors arrive at Entebbe International Airport, on the shore of Lake Victoria. It is the country's main gateway, about an hour's drive from Kampala depending on traffic. Several international airlines serve Entebbe, with connections through regional hubs.

This page explains what to expect. It is part of our Uganda travel guide; for what to do in the area, see Entebbe.

Arriving at Entebbe

1. Health screening and immigration, where you show your visa and yellow fever certificate; see entry requirements.
2. Baggage claim and customs.
3. Meeting your driver-guide in the arrivals hall, who will have your name on a sign.

Transfers From the Airport

We arrange private transfers to Entebbe hotels, Kampala or straight to the road for your first park. Many travellers spend their first night near the airport to recover from flights; see Entebbe. If you arrive late, ask us about the safest transfer plan.

Domestic Flights

Small aircraft connect Entebbe or Kajjansi with airstrips near the national parks. See fly-in safari packages for how they work and the luggage limits.

Arriving by Road

Overland travellers can enter from Rwanda, Kenya and other neighbours at established border posts. See Uganda and Rwanda and Uganda and Kenya.

Leaving Uganda

Plan to reach the airport comfortably early, and allow for Kampala traffic. We schedule the last day of your safari to avoid tight connections.

Arrival Day: What to Expect

Most international visitors arrive at Entebbe International Airport (EBB). On arrival you will pass through immigration, collect baggage and clear customs. Keep your passport, e-visa approval and any health documents ready. Read the e-visa guide before you fly.

Our drivers meet you at the arrivals hall with a sign. If you prefer an easy start, spend your first night near the airport in Entebbe rather than driving to Kampala in traffic.

Transfers and Timings

• Entebbe to Kampala is roughly 40 kilometres, but traffic can turn it into one to three hours.
• Late-night arrivals are common because many flights land at night. Arrange a pre-booked transfer.
• If you are flying to a park, domestic flights often leave from Entebbe or Kajjansi airstrips. See fly-in safaris.

Departure Day Tips

Allow plenty of time to reach the airport, especially if you are travelling from Kampala. Many airlines require check-in at least three hours before departure. Keep some Ugandan shillings for last-minute purchases if you like, but check currency rules on the money page.

Flight Planning

Several international airlines serve Entebbe, with connections through hubs in Europe, the Middle East and elsewhere in Africa. Many flights arrive at night or early morning, so book a first-night hotel and ask for late check-in or early arrival arrangements. If you plan gorilla trekking soon after arrival, consider arriving a day early so delays do not cost you a permit.

Lost Luggage and Delays

Pack medication, valuables and a change of clothes in hand luggage. Take photos of your bag tags and keep contact details for your operator. See packing list.