Experience Uganda.

Travel with Purpose.

Join Uganda Counseling and Support Services (UCSS) on a life-changing mission trip to rural, eastern Uganda.

Whether you're a church group, student, or individual, you’ll have the opportunity to serve communities, build relationships, and witness the impact of faith-based transformation firsthand.

A group of children and adults posing in front of a newly constructed house in a rural setting, with some adults holding photos and smiling.

Travel with a purpose

Start your journey to Uganda today—apply for a mission trip with UCSS.

What to expect when visiting rural, eastern Uganda

Join UCSS at the Mission House for an adventure of a lifetime.

Download the UCSS Missions Trip Guide for all the trips, FAQ’s, packing lists and more!

Uganda Travel Visa Information

The Ugandan Government requires that “All persons intending to come to Uganda for holiday, tourism, business, study, visit, medical,” apply and obtain a visa online. If you are visiting Uganda you will need to apply for a Uganda Ordinary/Tourist Visa for a fee of $50 (subject to change) at least two weeks prior to your trip.

Click below to go to Ministry of Internal Affairs Republic of Uganda E-Immigration System to apply for a Visa before your visit.

Required documents:

  • A letter stating reason for transit and country of destination

  • Cover letter detailing the purpose of visit

  • Support Document for the purpose of visit

  • Return Ticket

  • Immigration Status of the Host

  • Invitation Letter (Email your UCSS contact or ucss@ugandacss.org to obtain a letter of invitation prior to your trip)

  • Passport bio-data page (with validity of at least 6 months past entry date)

  • Recent Passport-size Photograph

 FAQs

  • UCSS organizes mission trips, vision trips, and service trips. Each is designed to give participants a firsthand experience of the work in Uganda, whether through serving in local villages, supporting projects, or witnessing the impact of UCSS initiatives.

  • Yes. All U.S. citizens and most international travelers require a visa to enter Uganda. You can apply for an e-Visa online before your trip. UCSS staff will provide guidance to ensure you have the correct documentation.

  • Yes. Uganda requires proof of a Yellow Fever vaccination for entry. The CDC also recommends other vaccines such as Typhoid, Hepatitis A, and routine immunizations. Anti-malaria medication is strongly recommended. Please consult your doctor or a travel health clinic.

  • Most teams stay in UCSS stay at the Bulike Mission House near the ministry sites. Housing is clean, modest, and provides the essentials—running water, electricity (though sometimes limited), mosquito nets, and meals prepared by local staff. On arrival and departure, you may stay at a safe, resort style hotel in the city with Western level accommodations.

  • Days vary depending on the team’s purpose. Activities may include visiting schools, supporting clinics, assisting with community development projects, sharing in church services, or spending time with children. Meals will be served at the Bulike Mission House or packed to be eaten in the field. Each evening, teams often gather for reflection, prayer, and debriefing.

  • UCSS prioritizes your safety. We work closely with local leaders and guides, and you’ll always travel with trusted team members. While rural Uganda is generally peaceful, we do advise following UCSS guidelines and practicing basic travel safety.

  • Most trips last 10–14 days, though some may be longer depending on the scope of work or purpose of the visit.

  • Trip costs vary based on airfare, length of stay, and project involvement. The cost usually covers lodging, in-country transportation, meals, and some ministry expenses. Airfare to Uganda is separate. UCSS can provide an estimated budget to help with planning and fundraising.

  • No prior experience is required. UCSS welcomes people who have a willing heart to serve and learn. Training and orientation are provided before and during the trip.

  • Limited Wi-Fi may be available in guesthouses or in certain towns, but service is not always reliable. Many travelers purchase a local SIM card for basic communication. Expect to be somewhat “unplugged.”

  • Trips with UCSS are transformative and sometimes challenging. We encourage participants to pray, read Scripture, and seek support from their church or community before traveling. UCSS will also provide pre-trip orientation and team-building opportunities.

  • Yes. We encourage you to support local economies through ethical tourism! Many visitors choose to add a safari in Uganda’s national parks or a river ride at the entrance to the Nile after their trip. UCSS can connect you with trusted travel partners to make safe and ethical arrangements.

  • You can express interest by filling out the Visit form on the UCSS website or by contacting our U.S. office. Once approved, you’ll receive trip dates, an application packet, and preparation materials.

Learn the Language

Sisi tuna furaha na ninyi!

(We are happy with you)

The population of Uganda is diverse, comprising multiple ethnic groups with rich traditions and languages with official language being English, Luganda, Swahili and multiple regional languages. Learn some useful Luganda phrases today.