Uganda – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Last Update: Reissued with updates to Ebolavirus disease (EVD) health information.  

Reconsider travel to Uganda due to crime and terrorism.  Exercise increased caution due to Ebolavirus disease (EVD).  Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 Travel Health Notice due to Ebolavirus disease in Uganda, currently present in the following districts:  Mubende, Kassandra, Kyegegwa, Kagadi, and Bunyangabu.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the CDC announced entrance screening for travelers who have been in Uganda in the last 21 days.  All U.S.-bound passengers who have been in Uganda at any point in the 21 days prior to their arrival will be routed to one of the following designated airports: New York (JFK), Newark (EWR), Atlanta (ATL), Chicago (ORD), or Washington (IAD), where they will undergo enhanced screening, including a health questionnaire and temperature checks. This applies to all passengers, including U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and foreign nationals (to include Diplomatic and Official visas).

Country summary: There remains a threat of terrorist attacks in Uganda and throughout the region and there were multiple bombings committed by terrorists in and around Kampala in 2021. While the attacks did not appear to target foreigners, anyone can be a victim. U.S. citizens should remain alert and avoid large public gatherings. 

Violent crime, such as armed robbery, home invasion, and sexual assault, can occur at any time, especially in larger cities including Kampala and Entebbe.  Local police may lack appropriate resources to respond effectively to serious crime. 

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Uganda. 

If you decide to travel to Uganda: 

• If you are planning to travel to the United States and have spent time in Uganda, be prepared for flight changes and cancellations and contact your airline with any questions.
• Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before planning any international travel, and read the Embassy COVID-19 page for country-specific COVID-19 information.  
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. 
• Food and drinks should never be left unattended in public especially in local clubs. 
• Remain with a group of friends in public. 
• Use caution when walking or driving at night. 
• Keep a low profile. 
• Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable) and leave originals in your hotel safe. 
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter. 
• Review the Country Security Report for Uganda. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist. 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.