Is Uganda Landlocked? Lakes, Ports and Access to the Sea
Uganda has no sea coast, but it has some of Africa's largest lakes and the source of the Nile.
Yes, Uganda is landlocked. The nearest sea ports are Mombasa in Kenya and Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, which handle much of Uganda's trade. Despite having no coast, Uganda has abundant water: Lake Victoria, Lake Albert, Lake Edward, Lake Kyoga and the Nile.
For visitors, landlocked status matters little: Entebbe airport receives direct international flights, and road and rail links connect Uganda to the coast. Beach add-ons are normally made in Zanzibar or Kenya; see Uganda safari and Zanzibar beach holiday.
This guide is part of our Uganda facts and travel information guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Uganda safaris and tours.
At a glance
- Coast: None
- Nearest ports: Mombasa (Kenya), Dar es Salaam (Tanzania)
- Big lakes: Victoria, Albert, Edward, Kyoga
- Beach add-on: Zanzibar or Kenyan coast
Water Without a Coast
Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa by area, is shared with Kenya and Tanzania. Uganda's water means boat trips, fishing and cruises are part of many safaris; see lakes and islands and boat cruises.
Reaching the Sea
Trade reaches Uganda by road and rail from Mombasa and Dar es Salaam. Travellers who want a beach usually fly or drive to the coast. Read Uganda vs Kenya vs Tanzania when comparing routes.
Can You Get to Uganda by Boat?
Not from overseas. Ships arrive at coastal ports, and onward travel is by road, rail or air. Lake ferries link Uganda with Tanzania and Kenya across Lake Victoria, but they are regional services.
Planning a trip? Tell us your dates and we will build a Uganda safari around them.
Related Tours, Guides and Resources
- Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
- Uganda safari packages
- Uganda travel guide
- How to book a Uganda safari
- Plan your safari with our team
Itineraries That Include This Experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Uganda Safari Pages
- Where Is Uganda? Location, Borders and Map of Uganda in Africa
- Lakes in Uganda: Victoria, Albert, Edward, Kyoga, Bunyonyi and More
- Kampala: The Capital City of Uganda, Location and Facts
- Uganda Climate and Weather: Seasons, Temperatures and What to Expect
- Does It Snow in Uganda? Snow and Glaciers on the Rwenzori Mountains
- Uganda Facts and Travel Information: Geography, Climate, Currency, Visas and Attractions
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