Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda are three beautiful countries in East Africa.
Kenya lies along the eastern coast, next to the Indian Ocean.
Uganda is a landlocked country (it has no coastline), located just west of Kenya.
Rwanda is also landlocked, and it sits southwest of Uganda and west of Tanzania.
As a traveler, this region offers a great chance to explore different landscapes, wildlife, and cultures.
The best way to visit all three countries is by getting an East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV Visa).
It allows you to travel between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda with just one visa.
So, having the East Africa Tourist Visa is the first step to an unforgettable journey.
Let’s see how you can get it!
What Is the East African Tourist Visa?
The East African Tourist Visa is an online visa that allows travelers to visit Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda using a single visa. It is ideal for those who want to explore all three countries without applying separately for each.
The visa is valid for 90 days (3 months) from the date of entry and allows multiple entries between these three countries, as long as you don’t leave the region.
If you are applying from Dubai, you can apply online through the official embassy websites of any of the three countries you plan to enter first.
For example, apply through the Kenyan Embassy if you’re starting your trip in Kenya. It’s best to apply at least 2 to 3 weeks before your travel date to allow enough time for processing.
Before, you had to apply for an ETA to visit Kenya. Now, Kenya has made travel easier, especially for African countries. As part of the African Union’s plan for a borderless continent, Kenya no longer requires most African travelers to get an ETA.
Imagine you have acquired your East African Tourist Visa from the UAE. Do you know what awaits you there? Shall we explore it together?
Countries Are Included in the East African Tourist Visa
Kenya
Kenya, an East African country, is located about 3,500 km from Dubai and takes approximately 5.5 hours to reach by flight.
Tourists from Dubai often visit Kenya to experience its incredible wildlife. If you’re planning to visit Kenya between July and September, you’re in for a real treat-read on to discover the surprises that await you during this season.
Don’t think Kenya is only worth visiting during the Great Migration. Even outside that season, the country offers amazing opportunities for wildlife spotting and cultural experiences.
From the shared experiences of our past travellers, visiting Mara Village from the UAE stands out as a deeply moving part of their journey. Many describe it as “the soul of their Kenyan adventure.”
They repeatedly highlight the heartwarming hospitality of the Maasai people. One traveller said,
“We didn’t just feel welcomed-we felt like we belonged.”
The most unforgettable moment for many was being greeted with the Adumu, or Jumping Dance, a traditional ceremony where young Maasai warriors (moran) gather in a circle and leap high into the air, straight up, while keeping their bodies perfectly upright.
Jumping high is more than just a performance-it’s a test of strength, energy, and pride. The higher a warrior jumps, the more he’s respected among his peers.
“Watching the dance gave me goosebumps. There was no music-just voices. It felt raw, powerful, and sacred,” said another traveller.
The warriors, dressed in their striking red shukas and intricate beadwork, chant and sing together, using nothing but their voices to set the rhythm. It’s a celebration of bravery, culture, and connection.
Of course, Kenya has much more to offer beyond the Masai Mara. We’ve curated a table below to help you explore other highlights.
If you want to fully experience Kenya, plan for a longer trip. But even if you only explore a portion-like the Masai Mara-it will surely leave you with unforgettable memories.
| Tourist Attraction | Where | What You Can Experience |
| Safari Parks | Masai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo | – See lions, elephants, giraffes
– Game drives in open vehicles |
| Beaches | Diani Beach, Mombasa, Lamu | – White sand and blue sea
– Swim, snorkel, relax |
| Animal Orphanages | Nairobi (Giraffe Centre, Elephant Orphanage) | – Feed giraffes
– See and learn about baby elephants |
| The Great Migration | Masai Mara (July–Oct) | – Watch wildebeest and zebras move in large groups
– See predators like lions |
| Mount Kenya | Central Kenya | – Hiking and mountain climbing
– See snow near the equator |
| Maasai Villages | Near Masai Mara, Amboseli | – Learn Maasai culture
– Traditional dances and beadwork |
| Historical Sites | Lamu Old Town, Fort Jesus, Nairobi Museum | – Walk through old towns
– Learn about Kenyan history |
| Lakes & Bird Watching | Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, Baringo | – See flamingos, pelicans, hippos
– Take boat rides |
| Adventure Activities | Hell’s Gate, Naivasha, Diani Beach | – Rock climbing, cycling, walking safaris
– Hot air balloon rides, skydiving |
Uganda
Uganda is closer than many think. The distance from Dubai to Uganda (Entebbe International Airport) is about 3,700 kilometers, and you can easily get there with a flight.
If you’re already in Kenya, flying from Nairobi or Kisumu to Entebbe takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. There are also direct buses from Nairobi to Kampala, which take around 13 to 14 hours, depending on traffic and border time.
If you prefer driving, the road trip between Nairobi and Kampala covers roughly 670 kilometers and usually takes 9 to 10 hours.
Travelling from Rwanda is just as easy. Flights from Kigali to Entebbe take around 1 to 1.5 hours. Buses also run directly from Kigali to Kampala, and the journey takes 8 to 10 hours. The road distance is about 505 kilometers, and a drive can take 7 to 8 hours, including time spent at the border.
No matter how you choose to get there, Uganda is well connected and easy to reach-and once you arrive, it’s the people and places that will stay in your heart.
One of our travellers shared how their view of Uganda completely changed the moment they arrived.
They said,
“Before the trip, we had a lot of assumptions. But when we landed, we were surprised by how polite and welcoming the people were. It felt nothing like what we had imagined-it felt warm, calm, and honest.”
Their most touching moment came during a visit to a small farm.
“The farmer welcomed us with a smile and showed us his daily life. We didn’t just watch-we got involved. It was a real, hands-on experience. We helped a little, asked questions, and even sat for a weaving class with local women. That simple moment felt so close to our hearts. My friend once told me Uganda would blow our minds. It truly did.”
| Tourist Spot | Where | What You Can Experience |
| Bwindi Impenetrable Forest | Southwestern Uganda | – Gorilla trekking, Guided forest walks
– See rare birds & monkeys |
| Murchison Falls National Park | Northwestern Uganda | -View dramatic waterfalls, Boat ride on the Nile
Safari with elephants, lions, and giraffes |
| Queen Elizabeth National Park | Western Uganda | – Safari game drives
– See tree-climbing lions – Boat cruise on Kazinga Channel – Bird watching |
| Kibale Forest National Park | Western Uganda | – Chimpanzee tracking
– Walks in thick rainforest – Spot butterflies and birds |
| Lake Bunyonyi | Southwestern Uganda (near Kabale) | – Canoeing, Island tours
– Relaxing scenery, Bird watching |
| Jinja, Source of the Nile | Eastern Uganda (on Lake Victoria) | – Visit the Nile’s source
– White-water rafting – Bungee jumping, Kayaking |
| Kidepo Valley National Park | Northeastern Uganda | – Remote wilderness safaris
– See lions, elephants, cheetahs – Dramatic scenery |
| Rwenzori Mountains National Park | Western Uganda (on DRC border) | – Mountain trekking
– Glacier views – See colorful alpine plants |
| Lake Victoria & Ssese Islands | Central & Southern Uganda | – Boat rides, Sand beaches
– Water sports – Relaxing island life |
| Kampala (Capital) | Central Uganda | – Visit museums
– Explore markets – See historic sites |
| Entebbe | Near Lake Victoria, central Uganda | – Botanical gardens
– Wildlife Education Centre – Lake beaches |
| Mgahinga Gorilla National Park | Southwestern Uganda (near Rwanda/DRC) | – Mountain gorilla tracking
– Golden monkey trekking – Volcanic peaks hike |
Rwanda
Rwanda is a small but beautiful country in East Africa. People often call it the “Land of a Thousand Hills” because of its green hills and scenic landscapes. The moment you arrive, you’ll notice how clean and peaceful the country feels. The people are friendly, respectful, and welcoming to visitors.
Many travellers visit Kigali, the capital city, which is modern, safe, and full of history. A visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial helps you understand the country’s past and how far it has come. Outside the city, you can explore Volcanoes National Park, home to the famous mountain gorillas. Seeing them in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Rwanda is also known for its efforts in conservation and eco-tourism. It’s a great destination if you love nature, wildlife, and quiet beauty.
The distance from Dubai to Kigali (Rwanda’s capital) is about 3,500 kilometers. You can take a connecting flight from Dubai to Kigali, often with a stop in Nairobi or Addis Ababa. The total flight time is usually around 7 to 8 hours, depending on the connection.
If you’re already in Uganda, getting to Rwanda is easy. Flights from Entebbe (Uganda) to Kigali take about 1 hour. Buses also run between Kampala and Kigali, and the journey takes around 8 to 10 hours, depending on border crossing time. The road distance is about 505 kilometers. Driving usually takes 7 to 8 hours with time at the border.
From Kenya, you can reach Rwanda by flying from Nairobi to Kigali, which takes around 1.5 hours. Buses are also available, but the journey is long-about 24 hours in total by road.
Whether you fly or travel by road, Rwanda is easy to reach from neighboring countries-and once you’re there, the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty make it worth every mile.
| Tourist Attraction | Where | What You Can Experience |
| Volcanoes National Park | Northwestern Rwanda (Musanze) | – Gorilla trekking
– Hike volcanic mountains – See golden monkeys, Cultural village visits |
| Nyungwe Forest National Park | Southwestern Rwanda | – Chimpanzee tracking
– Canopy walk above the forest, Bird watching – Walks among ancient trees |
| Akagera National Park | Eastern Rwanda (near Tanzania) | – Safari to see the Big Five: lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, buffalo
– Boat safari on Lake Ihema |
| Lake Kivu | Western Rwanda (Gisenyi, Kibuye) | – Relax on beaches, Swimming, kayaking, boat rides
– Scenic views and nearby coffee plantations |
| Kigali Genocide Memorial | Kigali (Capital City) | – Learn Rwanda’s history
– Memorial and museum experience – Reflect on remembrance gardens |
| King’s Palace Museum | Nyanza (Southern Rwanda) | – Discover Rwandan royalty history
– See royal cows with big horns – Traditional crafts and dance |
| Gishwati-Mukura National Park | Northwestern Rwanda | – Primate watching (chimpanzees, golden monkeys)
– Nature hikes, Birding |
| Iby’iwacu Cultural Village | Near Volcanoes National Park | – Experience local traditions and dances
– Meet local people – Taste traditional food |
| Twin Lakes (Burera, Ruhondo) | Near Musanze, NW Rwanda | – Boat rides, Bird watching
– Stunning lake and volcano scenery |
| Ethnographic Museum | Huye, Southern Rwanda | – Explore cultural and ethnographic exhibits
– Learn about Rwandan tribes |
Reminder: We’re talking about getting the East African Tourist Visa from Dubai, which is valid only for three countries: Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.
If you plan to visit any other country beyond these three, please make sure to check their specific visa requirements from the UAE.
Keep in mind, we’re here to help you. So if you need any assistance, feel free to contact us directly.
Visa Eligibility & Application Process
The East African Tourist Visa is for foreign nationals who want to visit Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda on a single trip.
This visa is perfect if you’re planning to explore all three countries without the hassle of applying for separate visas.
To be eligible, you must travel for tourism purposes only-not for work, study, or business.
Also, your first entry must be into the country that issued your visa. For example, if you apply through Kenya, you must enter Kenya first before visiting the other two countries.
How to Apply East African Tourist Visa (EATV Visa)
You can apply for the East African Tourist Visa online through the immigration portal of any one of the three countries-Kenya, Uganda, or Rwanda. Choose the country where you plan to start your trip.
The application is simple:
- Fill out the online form.
- Upload your required documents.
- Pay the visa fee.
- Once approved, you’ll receive your visa by email.
Here’s how you can apply:
1. Choose Your Entry Country
Decide where you will start your trip-Kenya, Uganda, or Rwanda. You must enter through the country that issues your visa.
2. Visit the Official Immigration Portal
Go to the official visa website of the country you’re entering first:
- For Kenya: eCitizen portal
- For Uganda: visas.immigration.go.ug
- For Rwanda: irembo.gov.rw
3. Fill Out the Online Application
Create an account on the portal and fill out the East African Tourist Visa application form. Make sure all information matches your passport.
4. Upload Required Documents
You’ll need to upload:
- A clear scan of your passport bio page
- A passport-size photo
- Travel itinerary (your flight bookings or plans)
- Any other documents requested by the portal
5. Pay the Visa Fee
The visa fee is usually $100 USD. You can pay online using a credit or debit card.
6. Wait for Approval
After submitting your application and payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email. Visa processing usually takes 3 to 5 working days.
Once approved, they will send the visa to your email. Print it out and carry it when you travel.
Things to Know Before Visiting East Africa
Before you travel with the East African Tourist Visa (EATV), it’s important to understand a few key things. This will help you plan better and avoid surprises during your trip.
- Enter Through the Country That Issued Your Visa
You must start your journey in the country that issued your EATV. For example, if you applied through Kenya, your first entry must be into Kenya, not Uganda or Rwanda.
- No Visa Extensions Allowed
The East African Tourist Visa is valid for 90 days, and you cannot extend it. Make sure to complete your trip and exit before the 90 days are over.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination is Required
All travellers must show proof of a yellow fever vaccination when entering Kenya, Uganda, or Rwanda. Make sure to take the vaccine at least 10 days before your trip and carry the yellow card with you.
- Tanzania is Not Included
Tanzania is not part of the East African Tourist Visa. If you plan to visit Tanzania during your trip, you must apply for a separate Tanzanian visa in advance.
- Use the Visa Within 90 Days of Issuance
Once your EATV is approved, you must start your trip within 90 days of the visa issue date. If you wait too long, the visa will expire.
- Visa is for Tourism Only
The EATV is only valid for tourist activities-sightseeing, wildlife safaris, cultural experiences, and leisure travel. You cannot work, study, or do business with this visa.
- You Can Cross Borders by Land or Air
The EATV lets you travel between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda by land or air. Whether you fly or use a bus, or private car, the visa remains valid across all three countries.
- Carry Printed Copies of Your Visa and Passport
Always carry printed copies of your visa and passport, especially if you’re crossing land borders. Some border points may have limited internet access, and showing a printed copy can save you time.
- Respect Local Rules and Cultures
Each country has its laws, customs, and traditions. Dress modestly in rural areas, always ask before taking photos of locals, and avoid political discussions in public.
- Currency and SIM Cards
Each country uses a different currency (Kenyan Shilling, Ugandan Shilling, Rwandan Franc). Exchange money in official places or use ATMs.If you’re giving tips, try to give them in dollars rather than the local currency-it will make the host even happier.
Buying a local SIM card in your entry country can help you stay connected and access maps, bookings, and travel tips easily.
Plan ahead, travel smart, and enjoy the rich culture, wildlife, and beauty of East Africa!
And remember, if you need help with a visa application, travel tips, or itinerary planning, we’re just a message away.
