Uganda Yellow Fever Requirements: Vaccination Rules for Travelers

Planning a trip to Uganda? Whether you’re a tourist, volunteer, safari traveler, or visiting friends and family, it’s essential to understand Uganda’s Yellow Fever vaccination requirements. This guide explains everything you need to know before you travel.

Is Yellow Fever Vaccination Required for Uganda?

Yes. The Government of Uganda requires proof of Yellow Fever vaccination for all travelers over 9 months of age, especially those arriving from, or transiting through, countries where Yellow Fever is endemic.

Even if you are not coming directly from an at-risk country, it is strongly recommended that all visitors get vaccinated at least 10 days before arrival.

Yellow Fever Certificate Requirements for Entry

• Mandatory for all travelers aged 9 months and above

• Must be administered at least 10 days before travel

• Valid for life (according to WHO guidelines), but some countries may request a booster after 10 years

• Proof is required at Entebbe International Airport and land borders

You must carry your Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate (the “yellow card”) with you when entering Uganda.

Who Needs the Yellow Fever Vaccine for Uganda?

• 🌍 All international visitors, regardless of departure country

• 🦠 Those coming from, or transiting through, Yellow Fever risk zones (including Kenya, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and others)

• 🐘 Travelers combining Uganda with safaris in East African countries

• 🧳 Tourists with layovers or overnight stays in Uganda—even brief transits

What Happens If You Don’t Have the Yellow Fever Certificate?

Without the certificate:

• You may be denied entry at immigration

• You might be required to get vaccinated at the airport for a fee (if medical staff and supplies are available)

• You risk being sent back on the next available flight

• You put yourself and others at unnecessary health risk

Important: The vaccine takes at least 10 days to become effective, so last-minute vaccination is not ideal.

Yellow Fever Risk in Uganda

Yellow Fever is present in Uganda. Although outbreaks are rare, the risk exists. Alongside vaccination, protect yourself by:

• Using insect repellent

• Wearing long sleeves and trousers

• Sleeping under mosquito nets or in screened rooms

• Staying in accommodations with AC or screened windows

Exemptions: What If I Can’t Get Vaccinated?

If you’re allergic to eggs, under 9 months old, pregnant, or have certain medical conditions, you may qualify for a medical waiver.

• Visit your doctor or travel clinic to obtain a Yellow Fever vaccine exemption certificate

• Carry this document with you at all times when traveling

Yellow Fever Vaccine & Multi-Country Travel in Africa

Planning to visit multiple countries in East Africa (Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, etc.)?

You’ll almost certainly need the Yellow Fever shot due to:

• Cross-border travel between endemic regions

• Unplanned delays or rerouting

• Stopovers or transit via high-risk areas

Even if not checked at every airport, Uganda enforces this rule at Entebbe. It’s better to be safe than face unexpected delays or refusals.

Travel Tips: Stay Healthy in Uganda

• ✅ Get comprehensive travel insurance

• 💉 Be up to date on other vaccines (e.g., tetanus, hepatitis A & B, measles)

• 🧼 Practice good hygiene and food safety

• 💧 Drink bottled or purified water

Final Advice

• Book your vaccine as early as possible, especially during peak travel seasons

• Shortages of the Yellow Fever vaccine can occur—don’t wait until the last minute

• The certificate is valid for life, so it’s a one-time investment for future travels

Disclaimer

We are not medical professionals. The above information is provided as a general guide only. Please consult your GP, travel clinic, or health professional for medical advice tailored to your health condition and travel plans. Always check with the CDC, WHO, or the Uganda Embassy for the most up-to-date requirements.

📞 Need Help Planning Your Uganda Tour? 

At Msafiri Tours, we assist travelers from the UK, USA, Europe, Australia, and beyond with expert travel planning, including Yellow Fever advice and safari bookings.

Contact us today for a stress-free, well-prepared journey to Uganda.