Uganda has a large number of tour companies, both registered and unregistered, that offer various safari services. The total number of tour companies in Uganda is over 700, according to the company registrar of Uganda. Finding the right tour company in Uganda for your safari can be challenging, as you have to compare different aspects of each company. However, here are some practical suggestions that will assist you in choosing the best tour operator for your safari in Uganda; the pearl of Africa.

Membership Of Association of Uganda Tour Operators Association (AUTO)

Some tour companies have websites but they are not licensed by the Ugandan government or members of AUTO. Many of these have been involved in fraud by claiming to be the best tour operators in Uganda or the most reputable tour company in the country. The government has taken measures to identify and penalize these unregistered companies.

Some companies have also used the AUTO logo on their websites without being actual members of the Association. You should verify if a company is a member of AUTO by visiting the AUTO website and checking if the company is listed as a full or partial member of the association.

Reputation Of the Safari Company

Before you make your final decision with a tour company in Uganda, check its reputation in conducting tours within the country. You can do this by reading some reviews on trip advisor or on safari bookings from previous clients who used the company’s services. This will help you determine if the company is trustworthy, dependable, and ready to provide quality services to you.

If the company has negative reviews from clients, think twice before choosing that company. You can also check the reputation of a company based on its social media platforms such as twitter, Google plus, Facebook, linked in, Delicious, pin interest and many more. Moreover, frequent updates on social media platforms indicate that the company has active and accessible offices.

Clients should also examine the websites of different tour operators to see if they have an about us page that provides information about the location of the company offices, physical address, phone contacts, email address, and the company profile.

Is There Regular Communication with The Tour Operator?

The tour operator has the responsibility to provide all the necessary information to its clients, but if communication is limited or non-existent, then that is not a good sign. The tour operator should be able to answer all the questions asked by the clients and they should be accurate answers. This also means that a good tour operator should pay attention to its clients’ needs. By keeping in touch with your tour operator through frequent emails, phone calls, social media, you will build more confidence, trust, and comfort.

Choosing Between a Private or A Group Tour

Clients have different preferences and tastes when it comes to selecting which type of tour to take. The tour operator should explain the advantages and disadvantages of both types of tours for the clients to make an informed decision. Group tours in Uganda involve many people who share costs in transport, fuel accommodation and agree on a common itinerary. They are enjoyable because you get to meet new people and gain great experience. Private safaris are taken by individuals or families who want to have their own customized itinerary and enjoy it fully. Many tourists who come to Uganda prefer private tours because they can visit places that interest them without interference from the group.

How To Compare Safari Quotes or Prices Online

Most of the clients want to compare the prices because they have a budget for their vacation. This can be done by looking at the type of hotels, vehicle, and safari activities that different operators offer in their itinerary. Clients are advised to compare many tour companies before choosing the best one.

Payment Method Used by The Tour Operator

This is something that all the clients planning safaris to Uganda should be careful about. Always send money to a company account and not a personal account. Don’t be fooled to send money through money gram or western Union. The main payment methods used by most reputable tour companies include PayPal, bank transfers, pesapal, or paying at the offices of the tour operator. The clients can choose the option that is most convenient for them.

The above points apply not only to Uganda but also to other countries that offer safari services. Always take time to check if the company you are dealing with is the right one by considering all the points above. Otherwise, you might not get the services you paid for or get poor quality services from the chosen tour operator.

Why Different Companies Have Different Prices

You will notice that every safari company has its own way of pricing. This depends largely on the safari style. Some companies specialize in luxury gorilla trekking safaris while others cater to budget gorilla trekking options. You need to know what suits you best. You need to know what the price includes and excludes accordingly.

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