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Information & Costs

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Program Costs

Adventures We Recommend

Other Costs

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Practical Information for Volunteers

Essential Items to Pack

While some items can be purchased locally in Mukono supermarkets, it’s useful to pack essentials like:

If you prefer not to carry these items from home, rest assured they are readily available for purchase here.

You will need funds for various personal expenses such as bottled drinking water, phone and internet services, additional food for special occasions, safaris, and other outings. For instance, a stay at a reputable backpacker’s hostel might cost about AUD 15 per night, while camping options can be even more affordable.

Currency & Personal Expenses

In Uganda, the local currency is the Uganda Shilling (UGX). You can easily exchange your foreign currency at the money exchange office located at the airport. Personal expenditures will naturally vary depending on individual preferences and circumstances. However, most volunteers typically manage comfortably on a budget ranging from AUD 50 to AUD 230 per week.

You will need funds for various personal expenses such as bottled drinking water, phone and internet services, additional food for special occasions, safaris, and other outings. For instance, a stay at a reputable backpacker’s hostel might cost about AUD 15 per night, while camping options can be even more affordable.

Financial Readiness

It is advisable to bring a combination of cash and credit cards to manage your personal expenses. Mukono has several banks equipped with ATMs and also hosts a Western Union branch in case you need to have money wired to you. Numerous forex bureaux are available in Mukono where you can exchange your currency; bringing large-denomination bills can often attract better exchange rates.

We understand the importance of transparency, especially when it comes to the utilization of funds. We pledge full reporting with receipts at the completion of each construction phase, ensuring our donors and supporters are informed and involved every step of the way.

Additional Costs & Information

 

What does the School of Hope Expect from a Volunteer?

While you are in Uganda, you are representing yourself and your country. We expect you to:

  1. Strive to have a wonderful and rewarding experience. If you’re not, please talk to us.
  2. Treat yourself and others with respect and dignity. Be polite and do your best to adjust your behaviour according to local culture.
  3. Avoid smoking in the presence of children or within the community. If you need to smoke, please do so at the designated area in our accommodation.
  4. Respect our headquarters and other residents or colleagues living and working here by keeping the area clean.

 

Your cooperation is greatly appreciated!

Can I talk to a previous volunteer about their experience?

Yes, absolutely! Please contact us and let us know if you’d like to chat with a volunteer.

What does the School of Hope Expect from a Volunteer?

You are strongly encouraged to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider at your earliest convenience to discuss your upcoming trip to Uganda. Some vaccinations need to be administered well in advance of your departure.

You must obtain a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate before traveling to Uganda. Additionally, there are several other vaccinations you may want to consider, including Polio, Hepatitis A and B, Rabies, Tuberculosis, Cholera, and Typhoid. Preventative Malaria medication is also recommended while you are in Uganda. Malaria is entirely preventable with appropriate medication, which is relatively inexpensive by Western standards. Consult your physician for guidance and instructions regarding all necessary vaccinations.

We are located near the International Medical Centre, and in case of an emergency, we will take you directly to the best hospital available. If you feel unwell at any time, do not ignore it. You also have the option to visit Mukono International Hospital—a clinic that meets Western medical standards.

Uganda Electronic Visa - Must be done before arrival

The Government of Uganda introduced an online visa/permit application system with effect from 1st July 2016. The Uganda Electronic Visa/Permit Application System performs checks against law enforcement databases. All travellers seeking admission to Uganda are required to obtain a visa using this system prior to being granted boarding. Those intending to travel to Uganda should apply using the link below: https://visas.immigration.go.ug/

Language

English is the official language of Uganda and BACOP teaches their curriculum in English. However most people in the villages do not speak English and many people in Mukono speak both languages. The main language spoken in our communities is Luganda. People in Uganda will be more than happy to help teach you and will be excited to hear you say “Thank you” in the local language

Learn more about Luganda here

Weather

Ugandans will insist it is never winter in Uganda. And they are right! It’s hot and dry in January and February, warm with slight rain in April and May, warm with more rain in June and July, hot and dry in August and September, and warm and rainy from October to December. Daily temperatures range from 20C – 30C or 70F – 80F.

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