Can I Bring a Drone on Safari in Uganda?

Can I Bring a Drone on Safari in Uganda? Everything You Need to Know

Bringing a drone on safari in Uganda can be a fantastic way to capture stunning aerial footage of the country’s breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. However, flying a drone in Uganda involves a detailed process, and proper authorization is required to ensure you’re operating legally and responsibly.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process of importing and using a drone while on safari in Uganda.

Is It Allowed to Use a Drone in Uganda?

Yes, you can bring and operate a drone in Uganda, but there are strict regulations in place. To legally use a drone for filming or photography—especially in protected areas like national parks—you must go through several approval stages involving different government agencies.

Step-by-Step Process for Importing and Operating a Drone in Uganda

1. Seek Ministry Approval
   Identify the government ministry related to your filming activity—usually tourism, environment, or wildlife—and request a letter of no objection.

2. Request Clearance from the Uganda Defence Forces
   Submit a letter to the Chief of Defence Forces, including the initial no-objection letter from the relevant ministry.

3. Import Your Drone into Uganda
   After obtaining approval from the Defence Forces, you can import your drone. At your point of entry—either an airport or land border—you must declare the drone and get clearance from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA).

4. Apply for an Operating Permit
   Once the drone is in Uganda, you must seek permission from the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA). Write to the Director of Safety, Security, and Economic Regulation, including all prior approvals.

5. Submit Supporting Documentation
   Along with your application, you’ll need to include:

   • Drone operations manual and technical specifications

   • Pilot’s drone training certificate, license, and Class III medical certificate

   • Observer’s personal details

   • Map and GPS coordinates of your proposed filming area

   • Valid third-party liability insurance

   • Fully completed UCAA drone authorization form

6. Pay the Required Authorization Fee
   The permit fee is UGX 200,000 + 18% VAT. Payment is made at the UCAA cash office located at Entebbe International Airport. You’ll need to submit the payment receipt with your application.

7. Receive Your Drone Operation Permit
   If your application meets all requirements, the UCAA will issue you:

   • A Drones Operations Permit

   • Operator registration summary

   • Specific terms and conditions for operating your drone in Uganda

Additional Permits for Filming in Uganda

If you’re planning to film for commercial purposes—whether in national parks, forest reserves, or urban locations—you’ll also need the following:

• Uganda Media Council Media Cards

• Filming Permits from Relevant Authorities:

  • Uganda Wildlife Authority (for filming in national parks)

  • National Forestry Authority (for forest reserves)

  • Uganda Media Council (for general filming permission)

• Customs Clearance for Filming Equipment at your point of entry

Need Help with Drone and Filming Permits in Uganda?

Trek Africa Expeditions can help you handle the entire process—from drone importation and operation approvals to media card processing and filming permits. We work directly with local authorities and agencies to ensure a smooth experience for filmmakers, photographers, and travelers seeking to capture Uganda’s beauty from above. Our team also assists with transportation, accommodation, park access, and on-the-ground coordination.

Press Accreditation for Filming in Uganda

Before you begin filming in Uganda, every crew member must be accredited by the Uganda Media Council. Once accredited, each person receives a media card, which acts as official identification and authorization to film in the country.

Costs for Uganda Media Cards:

• USD 175 for a 30-day filming permit

• USD 225 for up to 60 days

How to Apply:

1. Each crew member must fill out Form G (we’ll send this to you in advance).

2. Submit a scanned copy of the completed form along with:

   • A valid passport copy

   • A recent passport-sized photograph

3. Provide a letter from the production company detailing:

   • Your company’s background

   • Purpose of the film project

   • Planned filming locations

   • Names and roles of the crew members

Once received, we’ll compile all documentation and submit it to the Uganda Media Council on your behalf. The process typically takes 2–3 business days.

Visa Advice for Film Crews

To enter Uganda, film crew members need a tourist visa, which can be:

• Pre-arranged online through Uganda’s official e-visa portal

• Obtained on arrival at Entebbe International Airport or other border points

A single-entry tourist visa costs USD 50 and is issued quickly upon arrival.

Best Time of Year to Film with a Drone in Uganda

Uganda has a tropical climate with two main dry seasons, which are ideal for drone filming—especially in forested or wildlife areas where muddy trails can be challenging during the rains.

Best Months for Drone Filming in Uganda:

• December to February

• June to October

During these drier months, skies are clearer, roads are more accessible, and wildlife is easier to spot. That said, filming is possible year-round—you just need to prepare accordingly during the rainy seasons of March to May and November.

Filming Transport and Vehicle Hire Services in Uganda

Trek Africa Expeditions organizes reliable and efficient transport for film crews across Uganda, tailored to your schedule, terrain, and budget.

Vehicle Options:

• 4×4 Safari Land Cruisers: Ideal for rough terrain and national parks, starting at USD 200–250 per day (with a driver/fixer).

• 4×4 Safari Vans: Available from USD 200 per day, also with a driver/fixer.

To accurately estimate fuel costs, we’ll need to review your filming schedule and expected mileage.

We also offer:

• Chartered and scheduled flights for remote or time-sensitive shoots

• Boat hire services for filming on lakes and rivers, arranged through trusted local providers

Fixer Services in Uganda

Every vehicle hired through Trek Africa Expeditions includes a professional driver-fixer. Our fixers are experienced in working with international crews and have extensive knowledge of Uganda’s terrain, people, and filming logistics.

They act as your on-ground support—handling unexpected issues, navigating local requirements, and serving as a bridge between your team and local authorities.

Accommodation for Film Crews

We offer a wide range of accommodation options to suit your team’s needs—from budget guesthouses to luxury safari lodges. Let us know your preferences, and we’ll recommend and book lodging near your filming locations.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Drone Filming in Uganda?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in supporting film crews, content creators, and production companies across Uganda and East Africa. From securing filming permits to arranging press accreditation, transport, and accommodation, we handle all the logistics—so you can focus on your creative work.

We work closely with key agencies including:

• Uganda Media Council

• Uganda Wildlife Authority

• National Forestry Authority

Thanks to our long-standing relationships with these bodies, we’re able to process permissions quickly and efficiently.

Get in Touch

Planning to film with a drone in Uganda? Let Trek Africa Expeditions handle the details. Contact us today for help with press accreditation, permits, transport, and more. We’ll ensure your production runs smoothly from start to finish.