Post covid19 travel questions to Uganda and Rwanda and their answers. The tourism industry is currently open and travelers are allowed to move across countries visiting different attractions and doing various activities of their choice. In 2020 when Covid19 was at its peak, most countries locked down and restricted travelers from moving from one country to the other. Each country strived to do all it takes to contain the spread of the virus and there was some relief and a decrease in death rates and new cases. Thereafter, countries started reopening slowly for tourism but with strict restrictions and great emphasis on the Standard Operating procedures. Apparently, most countries are open for incoming travelers. In this article, we are focusing on common questions asked by post covid19 travelers to Uganda, Rwanda, and the whole of Africa. The commonly asked questions for post covid19 gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris in Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Africa in general
Is Uganda and Rwanda Open for tourism
YES, travelers can now visit Rwanda and Uganda with no restrictions. Both Entebbe and Kigali International airports are open for travelers. However, land borders between Uganda and Rwanda are still closed meaning that travelers cannot cross over to either country using road transport. You can visit each country separately for now.
Do Vaccinated travelers need testing?
No, travelers who are fully vaccinated for coronavirus are not required to test again upon arrival at Kigali or Entebbe International Airports. Travelers are advised to carry their vaccination certificates and the PCR test results are taken at least 72 hours before arrival at the respective airport. Travelers arriving in Rwanda are required to fill the Public Health Passenger Locator Form giving details about the client for follow-up where need be. The form can be found at www.rbc.gov.rw/travel
What should travelers do before visiting Uganda or Rwanda?
Travelers planning to visit Uganda and Rwanda are advised to first vaccinate for covis9 and do several tests to confirm negative covid19 results. You are also advised to apply for your visas online to save time on the day of arrival. Fortunately, travelers visiting Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya can use a single East Africa Visa which allows them to move freely in these countries without applying again.
Where do I test for covid19 in Uganda and Rwanda?
The respective ministries of health in Uganda and Rwanda have gazetted various hospitals and medical centers where travelers can test for covid19 upon arrival. You can test right at the airport or drive to the nearby recommended hospital as guided by your driver guide from African Apes Holidays.
Will I be allowed to move before my test results are out?
You are not allowed to start off a safari to a national park and other tourism destinations in Uganda and Rwanda before receiving your test results. Travelers are advised to stay at their hotels as they wait for the results.
What if I test positive?
If any traveler tests positive for covid19 upon his/her arrival at Entebbe or Kigali international Airport, he or she will be put in quarantine and taken through treatment at his/her budget. This means that a traveler who tests positive for covid19 will not be allowed to proceed with the safari
What is the cost of a PCR test?
A PCR test costs between $55 and $65 per person depending on which medical Centre you use and the urgency. Travelers are advised to test for covid19 from recommended hospitals and medical centers as advised by the government. This saves you from fraudsters who may give you inaccurate information.
How long does it take for PCR results to come out?
The estimated time for PCR test results to be put is between 1 to 4 hours in Rwanda and Uganda. However, in upcountry areas, results can take longer due to slower laboratory systems. Test results are delivered via email or watsup. Travelers who want hard copies can pick them up from the hospital where they do testing
Do I need a Covid19 Test before departure?
YES, travelers departing from Rwanda and Uganda are mandated to re-test for covid19 to ensure no positive case departs the country. You can test for covid19 a day before your departure
What is the situation at Lodges and hotels?
All hotels and lodges accommodating travelers in Uganda, Rwanda, and other East African countries are encouraged to observe and keep the Standard Operating Procedures to ensure safety. Temperature screening is a mandate at the hotel, hand washing and sanitizing are highly encouraged at all lodges.
Are gorillas and chimpanzees open for trekking?
YES, travelers to Uganda and Rwanda are allowed to trek gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Mgahinga gorilla and Volcanoes National parks. However, travelers going for gorilla trekking MUST wear face masks, sanitize, wash hands, must be negative for covid19, and keep a 10 meters’ distance away from the endangered gorillas. Rwanda is still offering discounted gorilla permits to foreign residents at $500 a huge discount from the initial $1500 and $200 for East African citizens. These discounted rates are valid till 2022. Also, visit and trek chimpanzees in Kibale Forest Uganda and Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda with African Apes Tours & Travel. Gorilla permit bookings in Uganda and Rwanda are recommended at least 6 months prior to the trekking date.
Are porters are allowed?
Apparently, porters are not allowed in gorilla and chimpanzee trekking experiences. This is to limit the number of people in a group so as to ensure social distancing. Travelers are therefore advised to carry light baggage that does not need a porter. However, if it’s a special case, a porter can be allowed.
Are travelers affected by a curfew in Uganda and Rwanda?
NP, whereas other people are subjected to curfew beyond 7:00 pm, travelers are not affected. Driver guides who have pickups and drop-offs are not stopped by traffic regardless of the time. Travelers can therefore be picked and dropped at their hotels and the airport any time of the day and night. However, night activities such as nightlife in bars and game viewing in National Parks are currently restricted.
Conclusively, traveling to Uganda and Rwanda is currently not restricted. For any travel advice and bookings, contact us at African Apes Tours.
