Volunteering in Uganda!

At which airport do I need to arrive for my volunteer project in Uganda?

You should fly to Entebbe International Airport.

Do you organize airport pick up?

Yes, we organize airport pick-up for our volunteers. You just need to provide our staff with your flight details and then meet up with them at the airport so that they can drop you off at your accommodation prior to the start of your volunteer placement.

What happens if I miss my flight or arrive late?

There's no need to worry about that. If you miss the scheduled flight and your arrival is delayed, adjustments will be made accordingly. You will be provided with our contact information in your placement packet, so please contact us as soon as possible so that we can arrange for a new pick-up time. At all times, we make sure that your Uganda Volunteer project goes smoothly.

Who will come to pick me up? How do I recognize the person at the airport?

Our local representative will be waiting for you at the airport arrival terminal carrying a white signboard with your name written on it. He/she will be responsible for picking you up from the airport on time and taking you to your accommodation. You can also call them if for some reason you do not see them waiting for you, as their contact details will be provided to you before your flight to Uganda.

If my volunteer work begins on Monday, when should I arrive? If I want to arrive earlier than the day when my assignment begins, where do I stay, and who will organize the accommodations?

It is always advisable to arrive early, if possible. We suggest you arrive one day prior to the beginning of the program. As all our volunteer work in Uganda programs start on Monday, you can arrive on Sunday, rest for the day and then begin the project the next day in a better physical and mental shape.

However, you will have to pay extra for your accommodation and food if you decide to arrive earlier, so you should budget for this ahead of time. Let our in-country coordinator know your plans, and if you need assistance in making the arrangements they can help.

Who will bring me to the airport for my departure?

We don’t offer any kind of airport departure services to our volunteers, but our local staff can assist you in arranging transportation to the airport following the completion of your project.

What do I need prior to departure from my home country?

For your Uganda volunteer trip, you will need your passport, visa, a couple of photos, credit cards, some cash, flight tickets, comfortable clothing and shoes, toiletries, medicines, a first aid kit, sanitary towels, deodorant, insect repellent, mobile phones, laptops, an adapter, chargers, and travel insurance.

You will need to have met with your doctor and received the required vaccinations. You will need to apply for your visa, and also to obtain reliable travel insurance. Do your research ahead of time and let IFRE know if you have any questions or need assistance.

Where are the projects located?

Our Uganda volunteer projects are all located in suburban areas of Kampala, which is the capital city of Uganda. Kampala is a city of ferocious contrasts and enchanting landscapes. It is surrounded by tropical green forests. It’s a joy to explore Kampala city, as you can find slick art galleries, charming restaurants, lively bars, fascinating tourist attractions, and bustling shops all over the streets of Kampala.

Is there a minimum and maximum stay for my volunteer project in Uganda?

Depending upon your preference, IFRE’s programs can last from a minimum of one week to a maximum of 12 weeks.

Can I extend my stay if I choose to?

Yes, it is possible for our international volunteers in Uganda to extend their stay. We can also assist our volunteers in finding other volunteering projects to join during their extended stay in Uganda.

Will I have enough time to travel after work and during the weekend?

All of our volunteer opportunities and projects in Uganda are designed flexibly to adjust to a variety of changes. This gives you enough free time to go out and explore after your volunteer work and on weekends.

Who will guide or support me?

Our in-country coordinator supports and supervises you throughout your stay in Uganda. Likewise, our local staff will also stay in contact with you, either with timely field visits or via email or telephone. You can expect our field staff to visit you every two to four weeks to make sure that all things are going as smoothly as planned.

Can I switch projects if I do not like the one that I chose?

Yes, our participants can change their programs if they find themselves experiencing any kind of discomfort or difficulty. You should contact your in-country coordinator to discuss this possibility. However, we do make sure that all our volunteers have a pleasant volunteering experience in Uganda, and it is quite rare for our volunteers to be unsatisfied with their initial projects. Transfer to a new project will be based on availability.

Can I work on more than one project at a time?

Yes, you can work in more than one volunteer project at a time. For this, you simply need to get in touch with our country coordinator to confirm your participation in an additional volunteer program. Keep in mind that each of our volunteering programs in Uganda requires you to work for four to five hours daily. Therefore, it can be difficult for volunteers to complete all their volunteer duties and responsibilities if they participate in more than one volunteer project at a time. A more manageable option might be to split your time in Uganda in half, volunteering at one project for the first part of your stay and transferring to another project for the second half of your journey.

How old should I be to take part?

A variety of people from different age groups have participated in our volunteering trips abroad in Uganda. The minimum age for participation is 18. Anyone who is below the minimum age must provide us a legitimate parental consent from their parents/legal guardians, and in some cases, we may be able to make an exception. Minors can also volunteer alongside their families.

Who manages the volunteer projects in Uganda?

All of our programs are extensively managed by our in-country coordinator from the start to end. You will receive unwavering and reliable support from them throughout your volunteer trip.

Will I receive training before the start of my volunteer placement?

IFRE does provide training for you before the start of any of its programs. The nature of the training will depend upon the difficulty and nature of the volunteer project itself. You will receive proper training and guidance in an orientation class run by our country coordinator and local staff after reaching Uganda.

Is there a dress code in the project?

No, there is no dress code for any of our volunteer projects in Uganda. You are free to wear clothing of your choice without any restrictions. However, we do advise our international volunteers to wear modest and decent clothing and to be respectful of the culture they are visiting.

Do I need previous volunteering experience to join a volunteer project in Uganda?

No. Previous experience is not required. Most of our projects in Uganda are designed for volunteers from all backgrounds. Sufficient training and guidance are provided on arrival.

What language is spoken at the project sites?

English is widely spoken in Uganda, especially in Kampala and other project areas.

Are weekends completely free for travel and sightseeing?

Yes, weekends are totally free. Volunteers can explore Uganda, travel, rest, or participate in local excursions independently on the weekends.

Is volunteering in Uganda suitable for solo travelers?

Yes. Many volunteers travel alone. Our support system, group accommodations, and local coordination make it safe and comfortable for solo volunteers.

Will I meet other international volunteers?

Yes. You will meet volunteers from different countries, creating a strong social and cultural exchange environment.

Is it easy to make friends during the program?

Yes. Shared accommodation and project work naturally create friendships and strong bonds among volunteers and even with local people.

Will I share accommodation with other volunteers?

Yes. Accommodation is usually shared with other international volunteers, creating a supportive and social environment.

Are meals provided?

Yes. Daily meals are provided as part of the program, usually including local Ugandan food.

Can special dietary requirements be accommodated?

We try our best to accommodate dietary needs. However, options may be limited depending on availability.

Will I get to experience Ugandan culture?

Yes! Volunteering in Uganda with IFRE offers deep cultural immersion through daily life, community interaction, local traditions, and social activities.

Is Uganda culturally welcoming to international volunteers?

Yes! Ugandans are known for their warmth, friendliness, and hospitality toward international visitors.

Why pay to volunteer abroad?

Payments made by volunteers for participation in our programs help support the operating and managerial costs of our organization. We are a non-profit volunteer organization. Therefore, the fees you pay are essential for paying our staff salaries, advertising, utility bills, and rent bills. Furthermore, field supervision, food, and accommodation are covered by our Uganda program fees, as is a donation directly to the project you are traveling to support. This money goes directly to your homestay family and project, ensuring your money is going right where it is needed most.

Why are IFRE’s fees so much more affordable than those of other volunteer organizations?

IFRE manages to offer affordable volunteer trips in Uganda because it serves as a non-profit volunteer organization that has an international staff comprised of dedicated humanitarians who are passionate about making this world a better place. Money is not a motivating force for us to run our programs. The fees are just enough to keep our programs sustained. IFRE remains devoted to maintaining both the quality of our programs as well as the safety of all volunteers involved, even at the lowest of prices.

Can I get a tax deduction?

Yes, you can get a tax deduction as we are an American non-profit 501©3 volunteer organization that collaborates with many local orphanages, schools, hospitals, and NGOs all across the globe.

Can I get help to raise funds?

Yes, we do help you to raise funds for your volunteer work in Uganda by sending a letter of acceptance in the program. You can raise volunteering funds through various campaigns. You can ask for donations from different organizations and volunteering-related campaigns.

For further readings:
Cost /money matter
Why to pay for volunteer abroad
How to reduce the cost of volunteer abroad
Pay fee directly to host family

Can I change my program duration after arriving in Uganda?

Yes. Program duration can be adjusted with the coordination of IFRE staff members.

Can I combine volunteering with travel in Uganda?

Yes. Many volunteers combine their project with travel before or after the program.

Is there local support available 24/7?

Yes. Volunteers have access to local support and emergency contact details throughout their stay.

Who do I contact if I have problems at my placement?

You should immediately contact your in-country coordinator or local support staff, who will assist you in resolving any issues.

Is it safe to travel in Uganda?

Yes, it is safe to travel to Uganda. Your safety is IFRE’s top priority. We make sure that all of your activities are safe for participation, and our staff members are available for support throughout the period of your volunteer program. However, we advise and request you do your own research and make yourself aware of as much safety information regarding your travel destination as possible before leaving home.

What safety measures should I take?

While it is true that Uganda is a safe country for foreigners, it is always a good idea to exercise some degree of caution during your travels. We always engage our international volunteers in an informative and crucial orientation class at the beginning of their volunteer abroad project in Uganda.

You should employ basic safety measures while in Uganda, such as not carrying large amounts of cash, not traveling alone, particularly at night, etc. Carry a copy of your passport rather than the original, and try to keep a low profile and not dress in a revealing or provocative manner.

What will happen if I get sick?

You don't need to worry at all. Your health will be closely assessed and monitored. If you get sick, our in-house coordinator, along with the support of the staff, will ensure you are taken to a clinic or hospital and receive the necessary care. Be sure to bring along your passport and a copy of your insurance policy to present to the physician.

Why must I get travel insurance before beginning my volunteer trip in Uganda?

All IFRE volunteers are required to obtain reliable travel insurance prior to leaving for their trips. If you need assistance in obtaining a policy, IFRE can help you with this. Getting insured gives you a safety cushion should something happen to you. If your trip is cancelled, if you need any kind of medical treatment, if you need to return home, if your belongings are stolen, or if you have any accident, you will be covered.

What Vaccinations do I need before traveling to Uganda?

The main recommended vaccinations for Uganda are Chikungunya, Cholera, Dengue, DTP, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, malaria, meningococcal, MMR, rabies, schistosomiasis, tuberculosis, yellow fever (compulsory), and Zika virus. For your personal health precautions and extra safety, you should consider consulting your doctor for further vaccine recommendations prior to the start of your travel.

What are the principal health risks in Uganda?

During your volunteer experience in Uganda, you should be aware of the health risks present in the country. These are yellow fever, hepatitis A & B, malaria, typhoid, cholera, meningitis, and rabies. You should take precautions against insect bites, avoid contact with animals, and do not engage in activities which lead to a sharing of bodily fluids. The tap water in Uganda is also not safe to drink, so to avoid contamination only drink bottled water or sealed drinks. For further readings:

For further readings:
Vaccination
Volunteer Health and Safety
Safety Tips for Your Volunteer Abroad Trip

Are pharmacies and clinics easily accessible?

Yes. Kampala has pharmacies, clinics, and hospitals easily accessible to volunteers.

Is bottled water easily available?

Yes. Bottled water is widely available throughout Uganda.

Do I need a visa to volunteer and travel in Uganda?

Yes, you do need a valid Uganda tourist visa to participate in our programs. You should remember that single-entry tourist visas for Uganda are only valid for 90 days after their issuance. If you wish to stay longer than that, you must apply for a visa extension, which will cost you extra. You can learn in detail about Uganda tourist visas.

How do I apply for the visa?

There are two ways to apply for a Uganda travel visa. You can either visit the official Embassy of Uganda in your home country, or you can instead fill out an online visa application form. Both ways will require you to possess a passport with a validity of at least six months. A single-entry Uganda tourist visa can cost you around $50. Do your research ahead of time online for the specifics pertaining to your home country.

Can I extend my visa while I am in the country? Can you help me with this?

Yes, you can extend your visa while you are in Uganda. If you want to extend your visa and stay a little bit longer for your Uganda volunteer program, you have to visit the Immigration Office of Uganda in Kampala and apply for a visa extension. This will require you to submit a copy of your flight ticket, passport, and a few passport sizes pictures. If you need advice or help regarding this matter, contact the in-country coordinator.

How do I contact IFRE’s local coordinator while in Uganda?

All of our international volunteers are provided with the personal information and contact details of our local staff and country coordinator. You can simply call them at any time during your trip, or you can send them a text or an email.

How can I communicate with my family from Uganda?

Contacting your family during your volunteer program in Uganda will help you keep in touch and keep your family involved in your exciting African adventure. There’s internet access available everywhere in Uganda, so you can video chat with them on Teams or chat with them on Facebook or via WhatsApp. You can also call them directly from your mobile phone, but this can be costly. You will be able to stay in touch with your family at all times without a sweat.

Can I use my phone during my volunteer project?

Yes, you can use your personal mobile phone during your project with IFRE. However, you will need to contact your current provider prior to your departure to find out if your phone will function in Uganda.

Can I buy a SIM card in Uganda?

Yes, you can buy a local SIM Card in Uganda.

How can international volunteers in Uganda get/purchase internet services?

First of all, you need to buy a SIM card from the local vendor shops. You will need your original passport and a recent passport-sized photo to fill out an application form. Once you have done that, the vendor will give you the SIM card. You can then insert it and purchase a data pack to access the internet after its activation. You can always ask the vendor to purchase the internet data pack for you if you can’t do it yourself. Again, check with your current phone provider to ensure your phone will be compatible with the new SIM.

Is the internet available everywhere?

The Internet is widely available in Uganda. The use of a local SIM will ensure you have access to the internet wherever you go that has phone service.

Do I need to bring Ugandan currency?

No. You can exchange money in Uganda or use ATMs in major cities like Kampala.

What do I need to bring for my volunteering project in Uganda?

What you bring will vary based on the season you are traveling in and the type of project you are working on. IFRE provides bedding, but if you feel you would like a sleeping bag, you are welcome to bring it along. You need to make sure that you bring insect repellent, a first-aid kit, a power adapter, travel insurance, hand sanitizer, sunscreen cream, a pollution mask, a pair of flip-flops, a towel and toiletries, medicines, your passport, visa, flight tickets, a rolling suitcase, a laptop, a mobile phone, a power bank, and earplugs.

We hope we have sufficiently answered all of your questions and that you are feeling more prepared to take on the challenge of volunteering in Uganda. Contact IFRE today to get started on your own Uganda volunteering abroad adventure!