It’s about that time of year where the travel bug normally hits. As we head towards the end of the year and start outlining 2019 aspirations, many of our new bucket list items likely include traveling. But what if instead of simply traveling, you considered ways to go abroad while participating in meaningful service?

What about in a place like Uganda? Volunteering abroad in Uganda can provide individuals with a diverse range of skills, from project planning and program management, to relationship building and cross-cultural communication. But, if done right, volunteering can also have a long-term, sustainable impact for communities throughout the world.

Ready to put your hand in and join a group of volunteers? We’ve got the place for you.

Sounds pretty amazing, right? 

So by now, you’ve scoured GoAbroad for places and projects. Since you’ve landed on volunteering in Uganda, we’ve put together a guide of everything you need to know before you travel.

Volunteering in Uganda FAQs

1. What are the benefits of volunteering in Uganda?

Volunteering abroad is a powerful experience that can impact you both personally and professionally. As a volunteer in Uganda, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, identify areas of similarity and differences, build authentic relationships with communities you are serving, and so much more.

You’ll have the chance to develop your communication skills and the ability to listen, exercise patience and flexibility, and consider more deeply your values and what is important to you. Professionally, you’ll gain hands-on experience and skills that you can refer to during interviews and networking. Take a look at this article for a full list of pros and cons of volunteering in Uganda!

Read More: 8 Pros & Cons of Volunteering in Uganda

2. What are the best locations for volunteers? What types of projects are possible?

Working with these amazing animals is just one option for your volunteer in Uganda trip!

Where to volunteer in Uganda will largely depend on what your interests are and what your skills are. For those interested in conservation or eco-friendly, you may consider working near some of the national parks and gorilla forests.

Individuals with a background in education or an interest in working with youth/children can work in schools or for out development programs throughout the country, from the capital of Kampala to areas like Mbale and Gulu. 

Business-oriented volunteers may choose to assist organizations focusing on micro-finance projects or community driven development initiatives, like helping local farmers to improve their business models. No matter your background, there’s a way for you to find an opportunity to contribute your skills in Uganda.

3. How safe is volunteering in Uganda?

Uganda is an extremely friendly country to volunteers and tourists alike. Individuals are generally willing to help you navigate your way around town or show you how to use your local phone. Most volunteer programs will likely arrange travel and excursions for you, especially if you are in a larger group, making it easier to navigate and giving you some peace of mind.

However, you will still want to exercise caution when volunteering in Uganda. Like any major city, theft and pickpocketing are possible, so always remain aware of your surroundings. Avoid being out late at night, especially by yourself. Always let someone know where you are going and have a safety plan in place before traveling to a new town or a new part of the city.

4. How much will it cost? How do I pay for it?

Volunteer program costs vary greatly between organizations and locations. Before committing to travel with an organization, know exactly what your volunteer fee will and will not cover. Most program providers will have a program fee that is separate from other expenses, like your airfare to and from Uganda.

For example, PANGEA’s program fee is $1,300, which covers in-country expenses like daily meals, accommodation, internet access, in-country transportation, 24 hour security, and some excursions. It also includes a donation directly to the program, which helps to sustain it even after volunteers are no longer in Uganda. 

Before you start counting money and worry about your program costs, do some research and find out what’s included!

However, volunteers are responsible for also paying for their own airfare, which can range from $1,200 to $1,800+ depending on what time of year and where you are traveling from.

Some program providers may have lower program fees, but volunteers are responsible for paying for daily meals, finding their own transportation, or arranging their own weekend trips to the capital or safari adventure in one of the national parks.

With some careful planning and creativity, most volunteers are successful in fundraising the complete cost of their trip! Using crowdfunding pages like FundMyTravel, volunteers engage their network and community in donating towards their trip.

Others plan events like bake sales, garage sales, or dinners, or sell various goods and items. Some of PANGEA’s past volunteers participated in a 100-mile bike ride from Milwaukee to Chicago to raise money for their volunteer trips and for the organization’s programs!

Read More: 5 Surprises About Volunteering in Uganda

5. How do I prepare to travel?

Your program provider should be working with you to make sure you have all of your pre-trip logistics covered. Keep in mind that if you are traveling to Uganda for the first time, you will want to be up to date on all of your vaccinations. 

Uganda requires travelers have their Yellow Fever Vaccination, and will ask for proof of vaccination upon arrival at Entebbe Airport. In addition, don’t forget to work with your doctor to receive an anti-malarial medication, which you should take consistently while in-country.

Not sure where you last placed your passport? This is one the most important things to prepare for your travels!

In addition to medical preparations, there are also some basic travel preparations you should make. Check to make sure your passport will not expire within 6 months of your travel dates, or you may not be able to leave from your departure city.

Additionally, apply for your Ugandan visa in advance of your arrival to make your customs experience so much faster. The new electronic application system has made it easy for travelers and volunteers alike to submit all of their information and payment before they arrive. Typically, volunteers will apply about two weeks before their arrival and are approved within a few business days.

Print the receipt you receive by email from the Ugandan Embassy in and present it to the customs agent. It is seriously that simple! Work with your program provider to ensure you have all of the accurate information you need to file for your visa.

6. What should I pack?

We know packing can be stressful. Follow this helpful list so you know what you should and shouldn’t bring.

Most volunteer providers will provide a suggested packing list to help you plan for your stay in Uganda. While we definitely recommend the basics, like clothing, toiletry items, sunscreen & bug spray, here are a few items that may not be on your packing list that we highly recommend:

• A journal and a few pens to document your experiences
• Comfort snacks that will satisfy your cravings and remind you of home
• Reusable water bottle
• Sweatshirts or long-sleeves - while temperatures can definitely be warm, evenings can be cool and breezy
• Rain jacket is a must, especially if you are traveling during rainy season between September to November or March to May
• Portable charger/battery for moments when the power might go out
• Headlamp or small flashlight for times the power is out or for evening walks on the road, where there are definitely no street lights
• Small packs of tissues, which when you are in a bind, can be used as toilet paper
• Ear plugs! If you are a light sleeper and find yourself in a crowded volunteer guest house, or down the road from a local restaurant that blares music at all hours of the night, you will thank us for this recommendation

If you’re nervous about making sure you have it all covered, never hesitate to reach out to the volunteer coordinator or to past volunteers to see what they would recommend!

7. What else can I do while in Uganda?

A lot of your time in Uganda will be spent with a new community of people. On the weekends? Take a trip to some amazing sights!

Your volunteer itinerary will likely be packed with daily activities in the community, evening activities alongside other volunteers, and perhaps even some weekend excursions and getaways. But if you are looking for more to do while in Uganda, here is our list of top things to see and experience!

• Safari at Murchison Falls: Most individuals dream of experiencing an African safari. We recommend Murchison Falls, which not only has some incredible wildlife sightings (lions, elephants, giraffes, oh my!), but will also stun you with its gorgeous waterfalls.
• Sipi Falls: Do you love spending time outdoors? Uganda has tons of incredible spots for hiking, biking, and kayaking. Sipi Falls near the Ugandan/Kenyan border, is one of the more popular locations for hikers. It offers breathtaking views of three different waterfalls, and is a fairly accessible hike for individuals of any level. 
• Jinja Day Trip: Whether you are looking for some adventure activities or just want to spend time in a new place, Jinja has a little something for everyone. Bungee jump, white water raft, or kayak on the Nile River for a once in a lifetime experience. Jump on an ATV and take a day trip cruising through some of the local forests. Not a thrill-seeker? There are tons of great local restaurants and bars that make it easy to sit back and relax.
• Ndere Dance Troupe: Music and dance are central to Ugandan culture. If you are in or near Kampala, head into the city on a Wednesday or Friday evening for an unforgettable performance.

You’re ready to volunteer in Uganda!

You’re volunteer in Uganda awaits you...maybe even deep within the jungle!

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and nervous about volunteering abroad, especially in a country you have never traveled to. Hopefully, this information has left you feeling better and more prepared for your upcoming volunteer trip to Uganda! 

Remember, there are tons of resources to help volunteers going abroad, both online and through your program provider. Never hesitate to reach out and ask questions, clarify information, and confirm certain details about your itinerary or program. It will leave you feeling more confident about your travels and better prepared to make a difference for communities throughout Uganda.

Get Matched with 5 Volunteer Programs in Uganda for FREE

PANGEA is a non-profit organization motivated by the belief that every student has the right to a quality education. Our evidence-based programming in Uganda addresses the three places where learning occurs: at school, at home, and in the community. PANGEA has grown to over 12 full-time staff members serving more than 4,000 individuals per year. The organization has been recognized for its innovative programs, receiving the 2018 Innovation in Philanthropy Award from GoAbroad and an invitation to speak at the 2019 SXSW-EDU conference. Learn more about their work at www.pangeaeducation.org.

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