What are the best travel insurances for Uganda in 2025?
- The best travel insurance for Uganda
- Is it currently safe to travel to Uganda?
- Is travel insurance required for the visa to Uganda?
- Why take out travel insurance for Uganda?
- What Travel Insurance for Uganda Should Cover
- The cost of travel insurance for Uganda
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Uganda
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Uganda?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Uganda: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Uganda covers medical emergencies, repatriation, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen travel issues.
2. Warning: The U.S. State Department advises reconsidering travel to Uganda due to crime and other risks.
3. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for a visa, but it is essential for medical and evacuation coverage.
4. Healthcare cost: Private clinics in Kampala can be costly, with a night's stay averaging several hundred dollars.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance plan for Uganda typically costs between $40 and $80.
6. Good to know: Ensure your policy includes high-coverage medical evacuation, as serious cases are often flown abroad.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Uganda.
The best travel insurance for Uganda
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | Our best pick for Uganda, offering very high cover and emergency support. - high medical limit - covers medical evacuation - quick claims in English |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | Strong for Uganda, combining medical support with overall flexibility. - 24/7 emergency helpline - cancellation cover - worldwide assistance |
| Tourist Card | $545k | Suitable for general tourism with practical core coverage. - reliable medical cover - emergency repatriation - attractive for shorter trips |
| Travel Pass Monde | $765k | Adapted for travelers with varied plans in Uganda. - hospital and evacuation covered - repatriation - good balance of benefits |
| Globe Partner | $328k | Basic international insurance for Uganda with essential benefits. - covers treatment overseas - civil liability - simple process |
| Globe Traveller | $545k | Practical for short, low-risk trips to Uganda. - basic medical coverage - quick reimbursement - suitable for singles or backpackers |
- high medical limit
- covers medical evacuation
- quick claims in English
- 24/7 emergency helpline
- cancellation cover
- worldwide assistance
- reliable medical cover
- emergency repatriation
- attractive for shorter trips
- hospital and evacuation covered
- repatriation
- good balance of benefits
- covers treatment overseas
- civil liability
- simple process
- basic medical coverage
- quick reimbursement
- suitable for singles or backpackers
Is it currently safe to travel to Uganda?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to reconsider travel to Uganda due to current security, health, and legal risks. Travel is not completely prohibited, but significant caution is advised, especially outside main cities.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: terrorism, armed robberies, and civil unrest present major threats, especially in tourist areas and regions bordering the Democratic Republic of the Congo. For example, organized attacks in Queen Elizabeth National Park have targeted foreign tourists.
- Health risks: yellow fever vaccination is mandatory, and outbreaks of malaria, typhoid, and other diseases remain common. Outside Kampala, for instance, medical care in rural districts such as Karamoja is extremely limited.
- Legal situation: very strict laws prohibit same-sex relations and public support for LGBTQ+ rights. The Anti-Homosexuality Act of 2023 imposes severe penalties, so any private or public action perceived as LGBTQ+ related could result in arrest.
- Environmental conditions: the rainy season can cause rapid flooding, making roads to Murchison Falls impassable for days. Travel to remote areas may be delayed or disrupted by sudden weather changes.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Uganda.
Is travel insurance required for the visa to Uganda?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US nationals applying for a visa to Uganda.
However, it is strongly recommended to have travel insurance due to the limited medical facilities outside Kampala and the presence of diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, and typhoid. Emergency medical evacuation coverage is particularly important, as healthcare costs and evacuation arrangements can be significant for travelers.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Uganda. This high percentage is due to the combination of health risks, the limited medical infrastructure outside major cities, and the overall security context.
Why take out travel insurance for Uganda?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Uganda.
In Uganda, public hospitals outside Kampala are often poorly equipped and underfunded, making them unsuitable for foreigners. In the capital, private clinics like International Hospital Kampala and Nakasero Hospital offer better care but charge high fees, especially for urgent surgeries or serious infections.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to US in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Uganda.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at International Hospital Kampala | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 3,500,000 UGX (approximately 930 USD) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 2,200,000 UGX (approximately 585 USD) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 120,000,000 UGX (approximately 32,000 USD) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 9,000,000 UGX (approximately 2,400 USD) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What Travel Insurance for Uganda Should Cover
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers healthcare and hospitalization for illness, accident, or pandemic event. Recommended: at least $100,000 in reimbursement limits due to the cost and risks in Uganda. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Pays for air ambulance and transport to the US or another hospital country if needed. Recommended: minimum $100,000 for evacuation and repatriation costs. |
| 🧳 Baggage loss/delay | Covers loss, theft, or delay of checked baggage and personal effects. Recommended limit: $2,000 or more, especially for remote destinations or safaris. |
| 📞 24/7 Assistance | Access to emergency hotlines, local doctors, translation, and teleconsultation. Recommended: unlimited, with English-speaking assistance. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Reimburses prepaid expenses in case of illness, accident, or event prior to trip. Recommended: coverage matching the total trip cost (flights, tours, hotels). |
| 🚧 Personal liability | Covers damages caused to third parties during your stay. Recommended: at least $50,000 for liability expenses in Uganda. |
| 💉 Vaccination coverage | Supports unforeseen vaccination needs abroad (yellow fever, etc.). Recommended: check if required and add $250-500 as extra protection. |
| 👨⚕️ Pre-existing condition | Limited coverage for sudden relapse or stabilization needs. Recommended: clarify exclusions and consider extra coverage if required, up to $10,000. |
Recommended: at least $100,000 in reimbursement limits due to the cost and risks in Uganda.
Recommended: minimum $100,000 for evacuation and repatriation costs.
Recommended limit: $2,000 or more, especially for remote destinations or safaris.
Recommended: unlimited, with English-speaking assistance.
Recommended: coverage matching the total trip cost (flights, tours, hotels).
Recommended: at least $50,000 for liability expenses in Uganda.
Recommended: check if required and add $250-500 as extra protection.
Recommended: clarify exclusions and consider extra coverage if required, up to $10,000.
Travel insurance from local providers or credit cards usually offers low coverage limits and many exclusions. It's safer to select a trusted insurer with guaranteed full coverage. Compare the best options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Uganda
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $46 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $70 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $115 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $210 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance policy depends on several key factors: your age, the duration of your trip, your destination, the coverage limits, and any optional add-ons like cancellation protection. It's important to keep these in mind to find the right plan that fits your needs and budget.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Uganda
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Uganda while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🛡️ Level of coverage | Medical evacuation and hospital care are difficult to access in much of Uganda. | Select a plan with sufficient medical and evacuation cover, but avoid expensive extras to keep the price lower. |
| 👨👩👦 Number of travelers | Group or family trips may reduce total insurance cost if bundled under a group plan. | Look for family or group policies, as they often lower the cost per person compared to buying individual policies. |
| ⏳ Trip duration | The cost of insurance rises as coverage time increases, especially for extended trips. | Only insure the days you will be in Uganda to avoid paying for unnecessary extra coverage. |
| ✈️ Activities coverage | Some adventure or safari tours may not be included and can raise premium costs if added. | Only include adventure activity coverage if you plan to participate in those specific activities. |
| 🏥 Pre-existing conditions | Policies covering pre-existing medical conditions are more expensive if you do not need this coverage. | Choose a standard plan if you do not require pre-existing condition coverage to save money. |
| 💶 Deductible amount | Higher deductibles lead to lower premiums, but you must pay more if you need care. | Choose a higher deductible only if you are confident in managing larger out-of-pocket expenses. |
| 🎂 Traveler’s age | Age can increase costs, particularly for senior travelers. | Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, which makes it a value option for older travelers. |
Important
While travel insurance is not required to obtain a tourist visa for Uganda, medical evacuation coverage is highly recommended due to limited facilities outside Kampala and the risk of serious infectious diseases.
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Uganda?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your current coverage, such as public or private health insurance or credit card insurance, can protect you during a trip to Uganda. Unfortunately, these types of coverage are often limited or not valid for travel there. If you are from the US, only travel insurance provides the level of protection required for emergencies and evacuation abroad. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Uganda? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage for medical costs, hospitalization, or evacuation outside the US. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ for medical and medical evacuation abroad. |
| Private health insurance (Blue Cross, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare) | Yes, partly | Some emergency coverage, typical max reimbursement: $50,000 abroad, rarely evacuation. | Travel insurance covers up to $100,000+ plus repatriation and 24/7 assistance. |
| Classic credit card (Chase Freedom, Citi Simplicity, Amex Blue) | Yes, partly | Medical coverage up to $2,500–$5,000, no repatriation, almost never includes trip cancellation. | Travel insurance covers trip cancellation, evacuation, and $100,000+ medical. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Mastercard World Elite) | Yes, partly | Medical coverage up to $25,000–$50,000, limited baggage or trip interruption benefits. | Travel insurance covers lost luggage, $100,000+ for care, and emergency return. |
Example
While on safari in Uganda, Sarah contracted severe cerebral malaria. Hospitalization in Kampala cost $20,000. Her Chase Sapphire Reserve card's travel protection only covered $2,500, and her US health plan denied the claim for out-of-network international care, leaving her with a staggering $17,500 bill for a preventable illness.
Expert advice
Always review the terms, exclusions, and limits of your current insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness or death, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to purchase dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Uganda?
Yes, U.S. citizens must obtain a visa in advance to visit Uganda. You can apply online through Uganda’s official Electronic Visa/Permit Application System before traveling. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay, and you need at least one blank page for the entry stamp. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Uganda?
Start by comparing travel insurance plans, ideally using a resource like the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Make sure to check the coverage and exclusions, paying particular attention to healthcare, evacuation, and risks unique to Uganda. Buy your chosen policy online, then receive your certificate, typically by email, within minutes.
Are there specific health risks in Uganda that should affect my travel insurance choice?
Uganda has several health risks, including malaria, typhoid, hepatitis B, and yellow fever. Medical facilities are basic or limited outside Kampala, so insurance should include strong emergency medical and evacuation coverage. Confirm your plan covers pre-existing conditions if needed, and that policy limits are adequate for overseas care, which often costs thousands of dollars.
What should I do if I need emergency medical evacuation in Uganda?
Contact your travel insurer’s emergency assistance number as soon as possible if evacuation is required. The insurer will arrange for air ambulance or transfer to an approved facility, since serious cases may require care outside Uganda. Make sure all necessary documents, including your yellow fever certificate and insurance card, are accessible during your trip.
Are there any legal or social issues travelers should consider when seeking coverage?
Uganda’s strict laws regarding LGBTQ+ individuals and changing security situations mean travelers should ensure their insurance includes legal assistance and crisis support. Avoid public demonstrations, crowds, and areas with known safety risks. Insurance generally will not cover incidents related to illegal activities or active participation in political events, so always comply with local laws.
Do I need a visa to travel to Uganda?
Yes, U.S. citizens must obtain a visa in advance to visit Uganda. You can apply online through Uganda’s official Electronic Visa/Permit Application System before traveling. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay, and you need at least one blank page for the entry stamp. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Uganda?
Start by comparing travel insurance plans, ideally using a resource like the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Make sure to check the coverage and exclusions, paying particular attention to healthcare, evacuation, and risks unique to Uganda. Buy your chosen policy online, then receive your certificate, typically by email, within minutes.
Are there specific health risks in Uganda that should affect my travel insurance choice?
Uganda has several health risks, including malaria, typhoid, hepatitis B, and yellow fever. Medical facilities are basic or limited outside Kampala, so insurance should include strong emergency medical and evacuation coverage. Confirm your plan covers pre-existing conditions if needed, and that policy limits are adequate for overseas care, which often costs thousands of dollars.
What should I do if I need emergency medical evacuation in Uganda?
Contact your travel insurer’s emergency assistance number as soon as possible if evacuation is required. The insurer will arrange for air ambulance or transfer to an approved facility, since serious cases may require care outside Uganda. Make sure all necessary documents, including your yellow fever certificate and insurance card, are accessible during your trip.
Are there any legal or social issues travelers should consider when seeking coverage?
Uganda’s strict laws regarding LGBTQ+ individuals and changing security situations mean travelers should ensure their insurance includes legal assistance and crisis support. Avoid public demonstrations, crowds, and areas with known safety risks. Insurance generally will not cover incidents related to illegal activities or active participation in political events, so always comply with local laws.
