FAQS
Your Questions, Answered.
THE CRICKET
What standard of cricket can we expect from the opposition?
We arrange fixtures matched to your playing level from social Sunday XI standard to strong club sides. During your enquiry, we'll ask about your recent results, ages of players, and preferred format. We'll be honest: if you tell us you're a mid-table club side and the opposition beats you by 200 runs, that's a failure on our part. We aim to get the standard right. We have never had a group report fixtures that were wildly mismatched.
What cricket formats do you offer?
T20 is the most popular format for touring groups it allows multiple matches in a single day if desired, and every player gets a bat. We also offer 30-over and 40-over formats. If your club prefers traditional over cricket, we'll arrange it. Tell us when you enquire.
How do you arrange the fixtures?
We work directly with Uganda Cricket Association-registered clubs in Mpigi, Kampala, Jinja, and Entebbe. Your fixtures are confirmed in writing before your squad travels - no last-minute changes, no scrambling for opposition. If a fixed arrangement falls through (it rarely does), we have backup opposition available.
What should we bring in terms of kit?
Bring your full kit pads, helmet, gloves, bat, spikes. White kit is traditional but colours are fine if your opponents agree (we'll check beforehand). Pitches are natural turf - bring both spikes and trainers. Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and a hat are essential for fielding under equatorial sun. We provide bottled water at all venues.
What if it rains?
Uganda's dry seasons (Dec-Feb, Jun-Aug) rarely see match-disrupting rain. During wetter months, rain is typically short and intense - afternoon showers that pass within the hour. We build contingency into every tour: if a match is washed out, we have reserve dates or alternative venues available. We've never had a tour where a match couldn't be played.
Can we play a match at Serenity Oval on the same day we arrive?
No, and we'd never arrange it. Day 2 (arrival day) is your travel recovery day. Match 1 is on Day 3, when your squad has had a night's rest, good food, and the chance to acclimatise. We know touring cricketers.
THE SAFARI & WILDLIFE
Is the wildlife part of every tour?
Yes. Days 6 and 7 are dedicated wildlife days for every group. You choose between Option A (Queen Elizabeth National Park) and Option B (Murchison Falls + Ziwa Rhino). Both are included in the standard tour price. Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi is available as a paid add-on (USD 800 permit) requiring a 1-2 night extension.
Is gorilla trekking worth the extra cost?
Unanimously yes, for every single person who has done it. It is the most extraordinary wildlife encounter on earth. The USD 800 permit is not cheap. But Uganda's permit is USD 700 cheaper than Rwanda's, and this is exactly the same experience with the same species. If any member of your squad is on the fence - reassure them.
Do we need experience for Nile rafting?
None. Guides from the rafting operators brief you thoroughly beforehand. Most people who raft at Jinja have never rafted before. Grade 4/5 means you will be in the water at some point - it's expected, it's fun, and the safety is excellent (double-patrolled rapids, safety kayakers at every rapid). If any squad members have significant concerns about swimming, alternative activities can be arranged for the afternoon.
FLIGHTS & LOGISTICS
Which airline should we book, and from which airport?
Uganda Airlines flies direct from London Gatwick (LGW) to Entebbe International Airport (EBB). Flight time is approximately 8 hours. They operate 4 flights per week. This is the recommended option for UK groups - no stopover, no connecting flight, no jet lag extension. Emirates (via Dubai) and Kenya Airways (via Nairobi) also serve Entebbe - viable but involve a layover.
Do you arrange flights?
We offer both a land-only package (you book your own flights and we meet you at the airport) and a full package including return flights. If you book land-only, we'll give you exact recommended flights and dates as part of your pre-departure pack.
What airport do we fly into?
Entebbe International Airport (IATA: EBB). It's 45 minutes from Kampala, 45 minutes from Serenity Oval in Mpigi. Your tour manager will meet you at arrivals.
HEALTH, SAFETY & PRACTICALITIES
Do we need vaccinations?
Yes. A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into Uganda - it is mandatory. Visit your GP or a travel clinic at least 8 weeks before departure. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended. We send all groups a detailed Health & Travel Briefing document 8 weeks before travel.
Do we need a visa?
Yes. Most nationalities can apply online for a Uganda eVisa at visas.immigration.go.ug. Cost: USD 50 (single entry) or USD 100 for an East Africa Tourist Visa covering Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda. We provide guidance on the application process in your travel pack.
Is Uganda safe?
Yes. Uganda is one of East Africa's most stable and welcoming countries for international visitors. Kampala and the main tourist circuits have a strong track record. The UK FCDO currently rates the main tour areas as appropriate for travel with standard precautions. Your tour manager is with you throughout. We have 24-hour emergency contact. You should always check the FCDO website for the most current advice before travel.
What's the time zone?
Uganda is East Africa Time (EAT) - UTC+3. That's 3 hours ahead of the UK (no daylight saving). No significant jet lag from the UK direction.
What currency should we bring?
Ugandan Shilling (UGX). USD is also widely accepted, particularly for large purchases and safari activities. ATMs are available in Kampala and Jinja. Card payment is accepted in most hotels and restaurants but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments. We advise bringing some USD for personal expenses and add-ons.
BOOKING & PAYMENTS
What's the minimum group size?
14 players (plus non-playing management/supporters if desired). Larger groups (up to 30+) are welcome - two-bus itineraries can be arranged.
How far in advance do we need to book?
We recommend booking at least 6 months in advance, particularly for popular months (December-February, June-August). This gives time to confirm fixtures, book accommodation, and for your squad to sort flights and visas. We do sometimes have availability for groups booking 3-4 months out - ask us.
What's the deposit and payment schedule?
A 20% deposit per person secures your dates and begins fixture arrangement. The balance is typically split into two further staged payments - at 90 days and 30 days before departure. Full payment schedule confirmed in your booking agreement.
What's your cancellation policy?
Full details are in our Terms & Conditions. In general: deposits are non-refundable. Cancellations over 90 days out incur minimal penalty. Cancellations inside 60 days are subject to higher deductions as venue and accommodation commitments have been made. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance for all participants.
Can we customise the itinerary?
Yes - within reason. The core structure (Mpigi/Serenity, Kampala, wildlife, Jinja, Entebbe) is our standard programme and we recommend it for good reason. But if your group wants to skip Kampala, add extra nights at Serenity Oval, or extend with gorilla trekking, we can build around it. Tell us when you enquire.