U.S. warning: ‘Reconsider travel’ to this African nation due to violent crime
3 min read
If you’re planning a trip to this popular African destination, you might want to reconsider your trip.
The U.S. Department of State has issued a “Level 3: travel advisory,” urging travelers to Uganda to “reconsider travel.”
Here’s what you need to know if you are still planning on traveling to Uganda.
What does the “Level 3″ travel advisory mean for you?
The advisory warns people with travel plans to Uganda to “reconsider travel” due to crime, terrorism and laws targeting people based on sexual orientation.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Start Date | April 23, 2025 |
| What’s changing | Updated travel advisory to Uganda urging travelers to “reconsider travel” due to crime, terrorism and laws targeting people based on sexual orientation. |
| What will happen? | Travelers should avoid demonstrations and crowds and be mindful that Uganda’s laws could prosecute people who publicly identify as being LGBTQ or an ally. |
| Who will it affect? | Travelers to Uganda. |
Terrorist attacks have targeted the following groups:
- Religious venues
- Schools
- Government buildings
- Police stations
- Transportation hubs
- Areas visited by tourists
Violent crime is also a threat, and includes incidences of armed robbery, home invasion and sexual assault.
There are also security risks based on demonstrations leading up to the January to February 2026 elections.
What is the highest travel advisory?
There are four levels of travel advisory, Level 1 through Level 4. When planning a vacation, you should check the current travel advisory for that destination.
- Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions – This is the lowest level of advisory; it is advised that there is some risk in that area, and travelers should take precautions while on their visit.
- Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution – There is a heightened risk for safety and security in that area, and travelers need to take extra caution.
- Level 3: Reconsider Travel – There are serious risks to safety, and travelers are advised to reconsider their travel plans to this destination.
- Level 4: Do Not Travel – This is the highest level of advisory, and it is strongly recommended not to travel to any destinations with a Level 4 advisory, due to many factors, one of which is that the U.S. government might not be able to provide travelers any assistance in the event of an emergency.
What should travelers to Uganda do in light of this travel advisory?
The U.S. State Department warns people who are planning a trip to Uganda to do the following:
- Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
- Keep a low profile.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry, or smartphones.
- Use caution when walking or driving at night.
- Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
- Do not open your door for people at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is.
- Stay alert in locations frequented by foreign tourists.
- Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
The agency also instructs people who are LGBTQ to take extra precautions, as same-sex relations or even affiliation with LGBTQ people is illegal in the country.
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Katherine Rodriguez can be reached at krodriguez@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.
