Updated 19 October 2026

Many women travel to Uganda alone for gorilla trekking, and most have a positive, trouble-free experience, especially on organised trips with a reputable operator and driver-guide. The practical advice is similar to any unfamiliar country: avoid walking alone at night in cities, dress modestly away from lodges, use trusted transport rather than motorbike taxis, and be prepared for attention that is usually curious rather than threatening.

Here is what solo women can expect, from safety and dress to practical tips for trek day.

How safe it feels

On a guided safari, much of your time is spent with your driver-guide, at lodges and in national parks with rangers, which makes most solo women feel well looked after. Ugandans are generally warm and welcoming to visitors. The main risks are the same as for all travellers: road travel, petty theft in busy parts of Kampala, and health. As everywhere, read your government’s travel advice before you go, choose a licensed operator with good reviews from other women, and share your itinerary with someone at home. See our honest Uganda safety guide.

Attention and how to handle it

A woman travelling alone may attract questions and comments, especially in towns and markets: where is your husband, are you married, can I have your number. Most of this is curiosity, and a friendly but firm answer usually ends it. Some women find it easier to mention a partner, real or not. Persistent or unwelcome attention is not the norm, but if it happens, move away, ask your driver-guide or lodge staff for help, and avoid being alone with someone who makes you uncomfortable. Catcalling can occur in cities, as in many countries.

Dress and culture

Ugandans tend to dress smartly and modestly, particularly in rural areas around the parks. Covering shoulders and knees in towns, villages and markets shows respect and attracts less attention. Shorts and vests are fine at lodges and on game drives, and trekking clothes — long trousers and sleeves — are appropriate everywhere. Greeting people properly before asking anything goes a long way. Read cultural etiquette in Uganda.

Getting around safely

A private driver-guide, or a small group departure, is the easiest and safest way to travel. In Kampala and Entebbe, use cars arranged by your hotel or operator, or reputable ride-hailing apps, rather than flagging down vehicles. Motorbike taxis (boda bodas) are cheap and quick but have a poor safety record. Avoid walking alone after dark in cities, keep your phone out of sight in crowds, and plan to arrive at new places in daylight. Long-distance travel at night is best avoided for everyone.

On trek day

You trek with a ranger-led group of up to eight visitors, with armed escorts, so you are never alone in the forest. A porter, around US$15–20 plus a tip, is especially helpful when travelling alone, and many women porters work in the porters’ associations.

There are no toilets in the forest, so use the facilities at headquarters before setting off and carry tissues, a small bag for waste and, if needed, period products, as treks can last most of the day. If you would prefer a female guide, ask your operator in advance; female rangers and guides do work in the parks, but availability on a given day cannot be guaranteed. See hiring a porter.

Health and practicalities

Pack a small medical kit, any personal medication, and enough sanitary products, as choice outside Kampala is limited. Take malaria precautions and carry insurance with medical evacuation cover. A local SIM card from MTN or Airtel keeps you connected to your operator and family. For costs and itineraries suited to solo travellers, read our solo gorilla trekking guide and travel insurance for gorilla trekking.

Frequently asked questions