Airstrips and Airfields in Uganda
Uganda is home to a growing network of airstrips and airfields. These small airports help travelers access remote national parks, islands, and towns without long road transfers. Most are used for domestic charter flights, connecting safari destinations with cities like Entebbe and Kampala.
This guide highlights the major airstrips and airfields in Uganda, focusing on those used for tourism, conservation, and regional travel.
Entebbe International Airport (EBB)
Entebbe is Uganda’s main international gateway. It sits on the shores of Lake Victoria and serves as the base for both international and domestic flights.
From Entebbe, you can catch charter flights to all major airstrips across Uganda, including Bwindi, Murchison Falls, and Kidepo.
Kajjansi Airfield (Kampala)
Kajjansi is a small, private airfield between Entebbe and Kampala. It’s the main hub for Aerolink Uganda, Bar Aviation, and other charter companies.
It offers daily departures to:
- Kidepo Valley
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Murchison Falls
This is a great alternative to Entebbe for domestic travelers.
Key Safari Airstrips in Uganda
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Kasese Airstrip
Serves Queen Elizabeth National Park
Located near Mweya and Kyambura sectors
Used by visitors flying to the Kasese-Mweya-Ishasha safari circuit
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Kihihi Airstrip
Gateway to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Buhoma sector)
Nearby lodges: Mahogany Springs, Buhoma Lodge, and Silverback Lodge
Popular for gorilla trekking packages
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Kisoro Airstrip
Closest to southern Bwindi (Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors)
Also serves Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Terrain is hilly, but flights are frequent during dry seasons
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Pakuba Airstrip
Inside Murchison Falls National Park
Ideal for travelers visiting the northern section (Pakuba, Paraa)
Reduces travel time from 6 hours by road to just 1.5 hours by air
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Bugungu Airstrip
Also serves Murchison Falls, especially the southern sector
Closer to Budongo Forest and Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
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Apoka Airstrip
Serves Kidepo Valley National Park
Located in one of Africa’s most remote wilderness areas
Offers direct access to game drives and Apoka Safari Lodge
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Semliki Airstrip
For travelers heading to Semliki National Park
Flights are limited but possible by arrangement
Other Notable Airfields
- Arua Airfield: In northern Uganda, used for humanitarian and commercial flights
- Gulu Airfield: Serves northern Uganda towns, and can be a stop for charter safaris
- Soroti Airfield: Used for aviation training and light aircraft
- Jinja Airstrip: Near the source of the Nile, good for flying in for adventure sports
- Kabalega Airstrip (Hoima): Strategic for future oil and tourism activity near Lake Albert
Domestic Airlines and Charter Options
Several local carriers operate scheduled and charter flights to these airstrips:
- Aerolink Uganda
- Bar Aviation
- Fly Uganda
- Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) – mainly for humanitarian flights
Flights are usually in small aircraft (Caravan or Twin Otter) and carry 9–12 passengers. Most allow 15 kg of luggage per person, in soft bags only.
When to Use Air Travel in Uganda
Flying is ideal if:
- You have limited time
- You want to avoid long road trips on bumpy roads
- You’re combining several national parks in one trip
- You’re traveling to remote places like Kidepo or Kisoro
Charter flights are also useful for high-end safaris, film crews, and VIP travel.
Plan Your Safari
Uganda’s network of airstrips makes it easier to explore remote parks quickly and comfortably. Whether you’re heading to see gorillas in Bwindi or lions in Kidepo, a short flight can save hours of driving. Work with experienced operators like Gecko Safaris Africa to include domestic flights in your safari package for smooth and efficient travel.
