Uganda Yellow Fever Entry Requirements 2026: What Travellers Need to Know Before Arriving at Entebbe Airport

Last updated: 14 October 2026 | By Jinja Bike Tours & Safaris Uganda

Planning a safari, cycling holiday or cultural adventure in Uganda? We have an important travel update for international visitors.

Uganda no longer requires travellers to present a yellow fever vaccination certificate as a condition of entry. This change was officially announced by Uganda's National Citizenship and Immigration Control (NCIC) on 2 October 2026. The requirement has also been removed from the UK government's Uganda travel advice.

For many international visitors arriving at Entebbe International Airport, this is welcome news and may simplify travel preparations before their Ugandan adventure. Read the official announcement from Uganda Immigration.

At Jinja Bike Tours & Safaris Uganda, we want our guests to have accurate, up-to-date information so they can prepare for their journeys with greater confidence.

1. Is a yellow fever vaccination certificate still required when arriving in Uganda?

No. According to the official notice published by Uganda's immigration authorities on 2 October 2026, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is no longer mandatory for entry into Uganda.

Previously, international visitors were commonly advised to carry their yellow fever vaccination card when arriving at Entebbe International Airport. The new guidance changes this entry requirement.

What this means for travellers:

1. You no longer need to present a yellow fever vaccination certificate as a mandatory condition of entering Uganda.
2. You can continue planning your Uganda safari without treating the certificate as a compulsory entry document.
3. You must still meet other applicable immigration requirements, including passport and visa requirements where relevant.
4. Entry requirements can change, so check official guidance shortly before departure.

For the latest information, consult the National Citizenship and Immigration Control website and your airline before travelling.

2. Should you still get vaccinated against yellow fever?

Although proof of vaccination is no longer mandatory for entry into Uganda, this does not mean yellow fever vaccination is no longer medically relevant.

Yellow fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease that can cause serious illness. Uganda is a country where yellow fever vaccination may be recommended for personal protection, depending on your health circumstances and travel plans.

Before travelling, speak with a qualified travel-health professional about whether vaccination is appropriate for you. This is particularly important if you plan to visit rural areas, forests or other destinations where mosquito exposure may occur.

If you have already been vaccinated, keep your International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) with your travel documents. It may be useful for other destinations or future journeys.

Some countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination from travellers arriving from, or transiting through, countries with yellow fever transmission risk. Your return journey and transit route may therefore have different requirements from your arrival in Uganda.

3. What other documents should you prepare for arrival at Entebbe Airport?

Even though a yellow fever certificate is no longer a mandatory entry document, international travellers should prepare the following:

Passport: Check that your passport meets Uganda's entry requirements and is valid for your intended stay.

Uganda visa or other entry authorisation: Check whether your nationality requires a visa and apply through the official Uganda e-Visa portal.

Return or onward travel information: Keep your flight details and accommodation information accessible in case they are requested.

Travel insurance: Choose insurance that covers your planned activities, including cycling, trekking or safari excursions where applicable.

Health and medication information: Carry necessary prescription medicines and consult a travel-health professional about recommended vaccinations and precautions.

Always confirm the current requirements applicable to your nationality and itinerary before boarding your flight.

4. What does this update mean for visitors booking a Uganda safari?

This change removes one administrative requirement for people entering Uganda. It is helpful news for travellers preparing their documents, but it does not replace the need to check other travel and health guidance.

Uganda continues to offer memorable experiences for visitors interested in wildlife, adventure, nature and cultural tourism.

With Jinja Bike Tours & Safaris Uganda, you can plan experiences such as:

1. Jinja bike tours: Explore local communities, historical sites and scenic routes around Jinja.
2. Murchison Falls safaris: Discover wildlife, the Nile River and the spectacular Murchison Falls.
3. Sipi Falls cycling adventures: Enjoy countryside cycling, waterfalls and coffee experiences in eastern Uganda.
4. Chimpanzee and gorilla trekking: Arrange authorised primate experiences, subject to permits and availability.
5. Tailor-made Uganda safaris: Combine wildlife, cycling, cultural encounters and nature experiences in one itinerary.

Our team can help you organise an itinerary that fits your travel dates, interests and budget.

5. Practical health advice for your Uganda trip

Even when vaccination certificates are not required for entry, sensible health precautions remain important.

1. Use an appropriate insect repellent and protective clothing to reduce mosquito bites.
2. Discuss recommended vaccinations and malaria prevention with a travel-health professional.
3. Drink safe water and practise regular hand hygiene.
4. Carry essential medication and a basic personal first-aid kit.
5. Follow official health guidance and any destination-specific precautions.

For further information about yellow fever, consult the World Health Organization's yellow fever information.

6. Ready to explore Uganda?

At Jinja Bike Tours & Safaris Uganda, we are happy to help you prepare for your visit and organise an adventure that makes the most of your time in our beautiful country.

Whether you are planning a cycling holiday, a wildlife safari, a cultural tour or a combination of experiences, we can discuss your itinerary and help with the arrangements.

Start planning your Uganda adventure today.

1. Website: https://jinjabiketoursandsafaris.org/
2. WhatsApp enquiries: +256 760 997 120

When contacting us, please share your intended travel dates, number of travellers, preferred destinations and the number of days you have available. We will be pleased to help you plan your trip and provide a quotation.

Jinja Bike Tours & Safaris Uganda — Adventure with a Purpose.

Important notice: This article reflects official entry guidance available on 14 October 2026. Entry rules, vaccination recommendations and airline requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with Uganda's immigration authorities, your airline and a qualified travel-health professional before departure.