Category: Blog
Booking a Taxicab at EBB: Sending an Email vs a Phone Call
Passengers to and from the Entebbe International Airport use different options to reserve a taxi ride. It is always good to do it in time. Some choose to send a message by Email and others just make a phone call. Below, I highlight the two options. My explanation will help you to know which one is the best.
Sending an Email
With this option, you use the form on the contact us page. Fill in all the fields and after click the send button. Your message will go directly to the inbox. Other than the form, you can copy the email listed in the website header and send the message directly through your Gmail account, yahoo, outlook, or any other platform.
If the reservation agent isn’t online at that moment, he or she will find it later. Then expect to receive a reply after some minutes. Don’t forget to check back for the replies. Some servers forward the sent messages to the spam folder. If you take a long without hearing from the reservationist, it is better to check in your spam folder.
Making a Phone Call
For a phone call, you talk directly with the person through the phone. Copy that number on the website and make a call. Sometimes phone calls are not answered. It is not intended, but the person may be in an environment that is not favorable to answer a call. If not a call, you can send a WhatsApp message. This is more flexible and convenient.
Conclusion
Emailing is the most secure online communication system. For bookings, it is good to confirm through email. It keeps evidence. Someone cannot easily forget your order and details. Information shared through email is always available for reference. A phone call is fantastic for last-minute inquiries.
5 Reasons Why You Make Payment For Airport Transfer Entebbe
EBB Airport shuttle rates aren’t fixed. Each trip has its price depending on the distance to be covered. Other points considered when determining the cost are the type of car and the number of passengers.
The trip fare when using cabs like Toyota Noah, Wish, fielder, Premio, and more starts from 20 USD. The charge for Entebbe to Kampala trip is 40 USD. Money paid for a taxi ride from Entebbe Airport is divided into portions to sponsor these points listed below.
Car maintenance
A car is a machine. It can break at any time and some of its parts need repairs or replacement after some time like a month, two months, or more. We reserve some money that is meant to maintain the car in good condition.
This includes the change of oil, brake fluid, tire replacement, renewal of government taxi, and fixing of other mechanical problems. It is mandatory because, without the car, the service can’t exist.
Driver’s commission
A driver is a person who operates the car. He starts by waiting and welcoming you at the Airport. You meet and greet. He can carry your luggage up to the parking area. Put it in the trunk. After, you both get into the car, and he drives you to your next destination. With all this work, he deserves to put some money in his pocket.
Fuel/Gas
A vehicle uses fuel to move from one place to another. Without gas, the car isn’t useful at all. Most fuel-efficient cars use one liter to cover about 14 kilometers. Those with a high fuel consumption rate can use a liter to drive 6 – 8 kilometers. For now, a liter of petrol costs 5300 shillings in Uganda.
Airport parking fee
There is a parking fee. It is a must for every car that enters the EBB Airport. The amount depends on the time you spend in the parking area. You are not allowed to move out if you have not paid. Before you start the journey, you first visit the automatic paying machines to clear the bill.
Expressway toll fee
Entebbe Expressway is a traffic-free route that starts from Abayita ababiri and connects to various points including Busega, Kampala northern bypass, Kajjansi, and Munyonyo. To keep time, we avoid the old Entebbe – Kampala road. It is ever congested with car traffic that is why we decide to use the expressway at a cost. The charge for this toll road is 5000 shillings per entry.
The money you pay caters to all the points mentioned above. What’s more, taxi operators don’t ask for charge for luggage and waiting time.
8 Tips For a Successful Trip To Uganda
This is for those who plan to visit Uganda. This remarkable destination is situated in the eastern region of the African continent. It welcomes a plethora of travelers daily from different parts of the World. The group includes tourists, students, researchers, returning nationals, expatriates and business travelers.
Uganda is one of the pretty destinations to die for. It differs itself unique with appealing weather conditions, diverse wildlife, nature, rich culture, delicious food, incredible transport system, stable security and unmatched hospitality services. Here are some of the tips to help you have a victorious flight to and from the pearl of Africa.
Draft a Travel plan
Have an itinerary for your tour to Uganda. With this, you are able to select the arrival and return date. It also includes the different places you will visit based on the main reasons for your Uganda trip.
Apply for a Visa
This is the first thing to sort out because it is usually meaningless to book for a flight ticket when you don’t have a Visa which guarantees you entry permission into the country. Uganda used to issue the Visa on arrival.
After the outbreak of Covid-19, it was phased out to limit congestion at the airport. Right now, visitors are advised to use the online system or apply from a consulate in your home country.
Book a Ticket
Once issued a Visa, and certain with the travel dates, you are free to go on and book a flight ticket in advance. The airline to use depends on the operators in your nation. Multiple airlines operate flights from various countries to Entebbe airport.
Some of them are KLM, Brussels, Kenya Airways, and Fly emirates, Etihad, Ethiopian airlines, Air Arabia, Turkish, Fly Dubai, British Airways, Air France, RwandAir, Uganda Airlines and more.
Pre-book an Airport shuttle
This service is necessary for every air traveler. Airport shuttles transport passengers from the airport up to their next destinations. It is common on all airports around the world including EBB. Be sure to reserve a taxicab in advance for an Airport transfer to Kampala and other parts in Uganda.
Get a good Suitcase
Choose a durable suitcase and transport your belongings like clothes, shoes, cosmetics, and other gadgets safely. One which is waterproof is more perfect. It can keep all your things free from water.
Pack light
Try to select and pack only light things such that your suitcase isn’t a burden to you when traveling. If you like shopping, be sure to leave some space for other things you can get on your trip like souvenirs.
Don’t forget Travel documents
Travel documents are essential for international trips. You rather forget your shoes than the documents. Every country has its documents it asks from the incoming travelers. Uganda requires you to come with a valid passport, Visa, yellow fever vaccination card and the Covid-19 PCR test or vaccination evidence.
Back up medication
Make sure to travel with back up medicine prescribed by your personal doctor or a medical officer from a hospital in your country. You have to get these instructions before you leave for another country.
Be at the Airport in time
Time is the most valued thing for air travel. All operators offer scheduled trips. Make sure to arrive early at the airport for your departure flight. All travelers are advised to be there three hours before the departure time such that all necessary checks and clearances are covered. If you are not good at keeping time, expect to miss your flight.
Be legit
Follow the legal routes such that everything goes on well. Avoid use of fake documents and illegal acts like drug trafficking. This can lead to cancellation of your trip, deportation or imprisonment. Several travelers are bounced at various airports around the world, so don’t be one of them.
Reserve accommodation
Pre-book your accommodation such that you get where to stay on your arrival. You can use online engines like Viator, Booking, Expedia, Agoda and more. Uganda has accommodation facilities of all categories including budget, midrange and luxury.
Keep communicating
Be a good communicator with your service providers like airport taxi operators, the airline you are traveling with, booked hotels, and your next of kin.
Make sure to give updates in case of any changes to your travel plans like flight cancellation, delays and more. With your mobile phone, you can communicate via WhatsApp, Emails or direct calls.
How To Reach Kampala Bus Terminals From Entebbe Airport
Kampala is the capital of Uganda. It is the nearest city for those who are coming from Entebbe Airport. This place is the starting point for transport to other regions of the nation. It is home to different bus terminals and taxi parks.
These points welcome all passengers who wish to use public transport from Kampala. Multiple operators offer the scheduled trips at affordable prices. Make arrangements and reserve in advance.
Even travelers from abroad can use a bus or matatu to reach their next destination in northern, eastern, or western Uganda. When you try to compare the two options, travel by bus is more convenient and rewarding.
It is cheap and offers the never-ending spectacular views of roadside scenery. Don’t forget to reserve a ticket in advance or get one when you reach the station. You can travel during the day or at night depending on your flight arrival at EBB.
For all travelers who need a bus for their upcountry journeys, here is how you get from Entebbe Airport to a bus stand in Kampala. For an Airport transfer from Entebbe, nothing is better than a taxicab.
Book one in advance and enjoy a ride to the Kisenyi bus terminal or Namayiba bus station. There is no charge for luggage. The drive takes about 45 minutes on a day that experiences low vehicle traffic on the routes.
Car congestion on the Entebbe – Kampala road is common in the morning and evening hours. Don’t worry about this because there is an alternative to using the traffic-free Entebbe expressway at 5000 Uganda shillings.
You drive straight and connect to the northern bypass. On the bypass, several routes lead you to the city center. You can choose to branch off at Namungona, Bwaise, or Kalerwe roundabout.
Uganda Airlines Records Increased Earnings After three Months
Lunched to operate flights in 2019, Uganda Airlines is the flag carrier of the pearl of Africa. After operating multiple flights to various countries in Africa, this company has recorded increase in its earnings after three months.
These trips include the two chartered flights from Entebbe International Airport to Kigali, and one to Cairo for General Muhoozi Keinerugaba and the late Speaker Jacob Oulanyah’s flight to Seattle in the United States of America.
The responsible authority is working hard to put the company at a higher level in the world’s aviation industry. A notable source revealed that the state house and the ministry of foreign affairs paid about 964 Million shillings for the three trips of Gen Muhoozi.
The commander of the UPDF land forces flew to Rwanda to mend the international relationship between Uganda and president Kagame.
Moreover, the parliament of Uganda paid about 500,000 US dollars to fly the critically ill Jacob Oulanyah to the United States of America for his treatment.
Jacob was very sick and fought for his life for about one month until he died on 20/March/2022. The medical report indicates that he suffered from cancer.
Bamuturaki, the chief executive officer of Uganda Airlines, disclosed that the airline rented out one of its airbuses to its manufacturer for exhibition at the Dubai Expo. The payment was about 420 Million shillings.
Additionally, the national carrier made profits after operating chartered flights for athletes. It was sponsored by the president of Uganda.
To give a brief highlight, in 2020, President Yoweri Museveni paid 81.4 million for Joshua Cheptegei and Halima Nakaayi, Steven Kisa, and Winnie Nanyondo’s trip to Nairobi.
The airline’s focus in 2022 is on investment in customer retention systems like launching a Frequent Flier Program and discounted offers such as extra baggage for free, sourcing for strategic partnerships, route expansion, and growing the cargo network. It will also acquire facilities such as customs bonded warehouses and cold rooms.
5 Myths About Airport Transfer Service in Uganda
Airport transfer service in Uganda enables you to get to and from the Entebbe Airport in central or Hoima Airstrip in the western region. It has to be in your plans if you don’t have a relative or friend to pick you up.
You have to arrange with a taxicab agency in advance. This ensures the certainty and success of your trip. Before you book a taxi at EBB Airport, it is good to know about these false tales.
Expensive
Most travelers fail to use the Airport taxi thinking that it is expensive, but it’s not. It depends on your bargaining power, nature of the trip, and booking time. Those who reserve in time get better rates than those who order at the last minute.
No turn-up
If you have booked with a taxi agency, take it from me the trip will be successful. The driver waits for you at the Airport arrival meeting area on your arrival day.
When you are out of the terminal, look for a person who is raising a signpost that showcases your name. He is the driver or company representative. Meet and greet.
Charge for Luggage
Airport transfer operators in Uganda don’t charge money for luggage. It is transported with you at free cost except when it requires an extra car.
Ever available
Some travelers believe that taxis are ever available at the Airport, but this is not the case. They operate on first come first serve. It is possible to reach the parking area when there is no cab for you. Therefore it is good to reserve in advance.
Not safe
It is safe, quick, and cheap. All cars that operate are registered with the Uganda revenue authority and other responsible authorities. You can identify the Airport cab at EBB by the yellow horizontal strip and black numbers.
How To Grab Better Airport Transfer Deals At Entebbe Airport
Everyone prefers to use a service that is offered at a lesser charge. It is good to save money in your pocket, but sometimes cheap things are expensive and disappointing. When deciding whom to use, make sure to focus not only on the price but also on the quality, assurance, and safety.
It is better to request a discount from the provider other than squeezing them to provide the service at a lesser cost. The Airport transfer rates usually include the car maintenance fee, driver, fuel, and office surcharge.
Without one of them, there will be a lack in the quality of the service offered. If you need to use a taxicab for your transfer from Entebbe Airport, here is how you can get better deals.
Ask for the latest information.
Inquire with the reservation agent and know the latest information, especially the price for your trip. Some online websites list information like the price of the Entebbe to Kampala trip and don’t update it. It turns into false details. The rising fuel prices in Uganda can’t leave the rates for EBB Airport transfer the same.
Bargain
When you are given a quote for your trip, don’t shy away if you feel like you can’t afford it. Try your luck and ask for a discount. If it is applicable, then you will get a favoring price and enjoy your trip to Jinja, Mbarara, or other places.
Book early
Don’t delay to confirm your booking in time. Taxicabs are in high demand especially when there is more than one flight landing at the Entebbe Airport. Those who hope to get one on arrival will be disappointed. Last-minute orders call for higher pay or getting stuck at the airport until you get availability.
Use a local operator
Avoid using booking agents to arrange for you. You will be double charged than a customer who contacts directly the service provider at the Airport. Use the contact page and discuss with the reservation agent. When you confirm, the driver will come for you at the airstrip on the stated date. Be sure to share the correct details.
Choose a normal Car
If you mind about saving money in your pocket, then be free to use a normal car like Toyota Noah, Premio, Wish, and more.
Posh cars like Land Cruiser V8, Range Rover Sport, and Mercedes Benz are expensive unless it is your main interest and you are willing to pay the charge regardless of the amount.
Airport Shuttle To Hotels in Kampala & Other Places in Uganda
Once you land at the Entebbe International Airport, connect with us and travel directly to a hotel in Kampala city or any other place in Uganda. It starts with a warm welcome by our driver who will be ready for you at the Airport arrivals waiting area. Meet and share greetings.
After, go to the car in the parking area. Make the payment, get in the car and start the journey to your hotel. You enjoy the drive in our fully facilitated vehicles. Be sure to confirm your reservation in time. Listed below are the hotels in Kampala.
Serena Hotel Kampala
If you fancy a chic place for your night stays in Kampala, no facility is better than the Serena hotel, the only five-star hotel in the capital. It is owned by the AgaKhan foundation and sits on 17 acres of tranquil gardens. Its accommodation is designed to meet the needs of corporate travelers.
Hilton Garden inn hotel
This four-star facility is one of Kampala’s most liked hotels. It is located in Kamwokya on plot 72 along Kira road. It provides accommodation with a restaurant and free private parking.
From this locale, you can access several notable and nearby spots such as the Uganda museum, Acacia mall, national theatre, Mulago hospital, Kitante golf course, and a lot more.
Sheraton hotel
With its outdoor pool, restaurants, and serene gardens, Sheraton is located in the heart of Kampala city. It occupies a certain piece of land along Ternan Avenue in upper Kampala. It is also a four-star and welcomes a wealth of guests who visit Uganda for holidays.
Hotel Africana
Owned by the late BMK, Hotel Africana is a three-star property. It sits on plot 2, 4 Wampeewo Avenue near the centenary park, Kololo airstrip, and the Speke apartments. The other interesting nearby places include the garden city, Oasis mall, Kingdom Kampala mall, and more.
Pearl of Africa Hotel
Another fancy accommodation property to die for in the capital is the pearl of Africa hotel. This 20-storey building is situated in Nakasero near the statehouse. It features 253 luxury rooms and 42 suites. It is a great base if you fancy unending panoramic views of the entire city.
Speke Apartments
For a person who seeks a good place to stay for weeks or months, Speke apartments are the best option. It provides fully furnished and self-contained rooms at favorable rates. There are owned by a business mogul, Sudhir Ruparellia.
Golf course hotel
This world-class luxury hotel is found on plot 64, 88 Yusuf Lule road. It is close to the garden city and the Kitante golf course.
Latitude 0 Degrees
One of the newly introduced boutique hotels in Uganda, Latitude 0 Degrees is situated in Makindye, one of Kampala’s renowned hills. It offers 47 guest rooms, a restaurant, bars, gym, spa, and swimming pools.
Speke Resort Munyonyo
This is a great place you should not miss for relaxing holidays. It is found in Munyonyo along the shores of Lake Victoria. Speke resort is a multipurpose place. It hosts several functions like business conferences, picnics, wedding parties, photo shoots, birthday parties, and more. It is a great place to sit and relax with your loved one.
Fairway Hotel
The other alternative for great accommodation in Kampala is the Fairway hotel. It was established in 1969 but officially launched for service provision in 1971. It has two restaurants, a health club, a convention center, and an outdoor pool.
Millennium Terrace hotel
While in Bukoto, you can reach the Millennium terrace hotel for unmatched lodging facilities. It is fully set with great accommodation and other amenities like a restaurant, bars, free parking area, and tranquil gardens, to mention but a few.
Aside from the above, there are other multiple hotels for you in the capital and other places in Uganda. You will reach cities like Jinja, Mbarara, Gulu, Mbale, Kasese, Masaka, Hoima and a lot more.
5 Things To Know Before You Arrive at Entebbe Airport
Going to Uganda for a holiday or business meeting is a trip like no other. You arrive at the Entebbe Airfield. This aviation station isn’t located in the Eastern, Northern or Western Uganda. You only find it in the central region at a place called Entebbe.
It sits on a piece of land that lies along the shores of Lake Victoria. Before you start your journey to this flight hub in East Africa, it is paramount to know this information.
Required Documents
All arriving travelers without the needed paperwork are denied entry into the country. You will wait at the Airfield and travel back to your home country with the returning flight. These cases used to appear. It was the responsibility of the airline to meet the costs of your return trip.
To avoid losses, airlines now don’t allow passengers to board without the travel Visa, valid passport, yellow fever and Covid-19 card. Try to apply for the Uganda Visa in advance. You can use a consulate in your home nation, or Uganda’s immigration website.
Covid-19 Testing
For now, all visitors to the Pearl of Africa are required to come with a negative Covid-19 PCR test done from a recognized laboratory. It is valid for 72 hours from the time it’s released. It’s revealed that in 2023 and other years to come, a Covid-19 vaccination card will be more important than the test result.
Transport in Uganda
Uganda has one of the best transport systems in East Africa. There are multiple transport service providers who can help you get around Uganda. From the airstrip, EBB taxicab remains the number one option for your Airport transfer to Jinja, Kampala, Mukono, Nakasero, and other areas in the country.
It is available even for trips to the upcountry. Those who can’t afford rates for private means, there is shared transport. You can board a bus or matatu from the capital to other regions.
Security update
Uganda is safe with no threats of rebel attacks. It has the police that is responsible for keeping law and order. The army, popularly known as the Uganda people’s defense force protects the nation with its citizens from war. The locals are welcoming and more friendly.
Where to stay
Every city, town or corner of the country, has an accommodation facility for you. Whether you need something budget, mid-range or luxury, you will get it. If you need to stay near the Airport, Entebbe town is a place to choose.
Top hotels in Uganda, including four and five stars are found in Kampala, the capital. The list names Serena hotel, Sheraton, Hotel Africana, Pearl of Africa hotel, Grand Imperial, Protea, Hilton Garden Inn hotel, Skies Hotel to name but a few.
Traveling From Entebbe Airport To Other Parts of Uganda
A trip to Uganda is possible for any traveler who can afford to buy him or herself a flight ticket. Moreover, you should have no bad record, and be sure to bring the vital travel documents. These are a valid passport, visa, yellow fever, and Covid-19 vaccination card.
All air travelers to the pearl of Africa land at the EBB international Airport. From this facility, you transfer to other areas of the nation. If you are not sure how to get from the Entebbe Airport, don’t worry. Here are the various options for you.
Entebbe Taxicab
Get a taxicab from Entebbe and reach various notable places like Kampala, Jinja, Mbarara, Mukono, Fort Portal, Gulu, Kasese, and more. It is cheap, quick, and offers privacy. The trip cost depends on the number of kilometers for the journey.
It is advised to reserve in advance before you leave your home country. You will find a driver waiting for you at the arrival waiting area. The cabs at EBB can take you to any location.
Tell a friend or relative
If you have a friend or relative in Uganda, you can direct him or her to pick you up at the Airport. This is only possible when this person has a car to use. If not, the best option for your transfer is a taxicab.
Bus Airport shuttle
There was a Bus shuttle that used to offer transport services to passengers, but it collapsed. It is no longer existing. For those in a group, you can use two taxicabs, vans, or hire a coaster bus for your trip.
Public means
This is for those who can’t afford the charges of an airport taxi for longer journeys. You can use a Boda Boda, public taxi or bus. There is no public transport at EBB, therefore you have to reach their exact location.
From the Airstrip, you can find public means in Entebbe town or Kampala city mostly if you want a bus for your trip to the upcountry.