What Are the Medical Facilities Like in Uganda?

Kampala has private hospitals including International Hospital Kampala and Nakasero Hospital that provide quality care with English-speaking staff. These facilities can handle many medical situations but may lack specialized equipment or specialists for complex conditions.

In rural areas and near national parks, medical facilities are basic at best. Many safari lodges have staff trained in first aid and can arrange emergency evacuations, but advanced care requires reaching Kampala or sometimes Nairobi, Kenya.

Comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential. Ensure your policy covers evacuation to Nairobi or your home country if necessary. Medical evacuation from remote locations can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

Some gorilla trekking permits require proof of travel insurance. Even where not required, the nature of safari travel—remote locations, wildlife, challenging terrain—makes insurance a critical safeguard.