East Africa Tourist Visa Cost, Validity, and How to Apply in 2026, Planning to explore the incredible wildlife, landscapes, cultures, and primates of East Africa? If your itinerary includes Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya, the East Africa Tourist Visa (EAC Visa) can make your journey easier by allowing eligible travelers to visit all three countries using one tourist visa.
The East Africa Tourist Visa is particularly useful for travelers planning combined safaris such as a Uganda gorilla trekking safari and Kenya wildlife safari, a Rwanda gorilla trekking and Uganda wildlife tour, or a longer East African adventure covering several destinations.
This guide explains the East Africa Tourist Visa cost, validity, eligibility, requirements, application process, and important travel rules you should know before your trip.
What Is the East Africa Tourist Visa?
The East Africa Tourist Visa is a joint tourist visa that allows eligible international visitors to travel within Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya using a single visa.
Instead of applying separately for tourist visas for each of these three countries, travelers who qualify can use the East Africa Tourist Visa for tourism across the participating countries.
The visa is intended for tourism purposes and is especially convenient for travelers combining several destinations in one itinerary.
For example, a traveler could plan:
Gorilla trekking in Uganda, Golden monkey trekking in Rwanda, Wildlife safari in Kenya, Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda, A visit to Kigali, A Masai cultural experience in Kenya, Wildlife viewing in Uganda’s national parks
The East Africa Tourist Visa can therefore be a convenient option for a multi-country East African holiday.]
How Much Does the East Africa Tourist Visa Cost?
The East Africa Tourist Visa costs USD 100 per applicant.
Uganda’s Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control lists the official fee for the East Africa Tourist Visa as USD 100. Rwanda’s official immigration information also lists the East Africa Tourist Visa at USD 100.
The fee is generally paid during the visa application process.
East Africa Tourist Visa Cost at a Glance
| Visa | Cost | Validity | Countries Covered |
|---|---|---|---|
| East Africa Tourist Visa | USD 100 | 90 days | Uganda, Rwanda & Kenya |
Always confirm the applicable requirements and payment instructions on the official immigration portal before submitting your application because immigration procedures and requirements can change.
How Long Is the East Africa Tourist Visa Valid?
The East Africa Tourist Visa is valid for 90 days (three months).
This makes it useful for travelers who want to combine several East African destinations during one holiday.
For example, you could spend:
Uganda → Rwanda → Kenya
or
Kenya → Uganda → Rwanda
within the permitted validity period.
Rwanda’s official immigration guidance states that the East Africa Tourist Visa is valid for three months and facilitates travel between Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya.
Is the East Africa Tourist Visa Multiple Entry?
The East Africa Tourist Visa is designed to facilitate travel between Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya during its validity period.
One important point is that the visa is tied to the participating East African countries and its entry conditions. Travelers should carefully check the immigration requirements before leaving and re-entering the participating countries.
If your itinerary includes another country outside the East Africa Tourist Visa arrangement, you may need a separate visa or travel authorization for that country.
Which Countries Are Covered by the East Africa Tourist Visa?
The East Africa Tourist Visa covers:
- Uganda Rwanda, Kenya
It does not automatically cover every country in East Africa.
For example, if you plan to add Tanzania, you should check Tanzania’s visa requirements separately because the East Africa Tourist Visa does not replace Tanzania’s immigration requirements.
The same applies to other countries outside the participating EAC Visa arrangement.
Who Should Consider the East Africa Tourist Visa?
The visa can be particularly useful for international travelers planning a combined trip to Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya.
You may consider it if your itinerary includes:
Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Rwanda Safari
Travelers can combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with attractions in Rwanda.
A sample itinerary could include:
Kigali → Volcanoes National Park → Bwindi Impenetrable National Park → Queen Elizabeth National Park
This is an excellent option for travelers interested in gorillas, primates, wildlife, and East African culture.
2. Uganda and Kenya Safari
You could combine Uganda’s national parks with Kenya’s famous wildlife destinations.
For example:
Entebbe → Murchison Falls → Queen Elizabeth National Park → Nairobi → Maasai Mara
This type of itinerary gives travelers an opportunity to experience different wildlife habitats and landscapes.
3. Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya Combined Safari
For travelers with more time, all three countries can be combined into one East African adventure.
A sample route could include:
Kigali → Volcanoes National Park → Bwindi → Queen Elizabeth National Park → Jinja → Nairobi → Maasai Mara
The exact route should be planned according to your available time, transport arrangements, trekking permits, and preferred activities.
East Africa Tourist Visa Requirements
Visa requirements can vary according to nationality and the applicant’s circumstances. Before applying, travelers should check the current official immigration instructions.
Common requirements may include:
A valid passport, Passport photograph, Completed online application, Proof of travel plans, Supporting documents where applicable, Payment of the visa fee, Yellow fever vaccination documentation where required
Uganda’s official immigration guidance says visa applicants should provide documents such as a passport biodata page, recent passport-size photograph, and Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate, depending on the visa category and circumstances.
Your passport should also meet the required validity conditions. Uganda’s immigration guidance states that an approved applicant should present a valid passport or travel document with at least six months’ validity at the port of entry.
How to Apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa
The application process depends on the country through which you apply.
If applying through Uganda, the official immigration system provides the East Africa Tourist Visa as one of the visa categories.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before starting the application, confirm that your nationality requires a visa and that you qualify for the East Africa Tourist Visa.
Some nationalities may be exempt from visas or may have different entry requirements.
Do not assume that every traveler needs an East Africa Tourist Visa.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Prepare your passport and other supporting documents before starting the online application.
You should have:
A passport meeting the required validity, Passport photograph, Yellow fever vaccination certificate where applicable, Travel itinerary, Accommodation details where required, Other supporting documents requested by immigration
Having your documents ready can make the application process easier.
Step 3: Apply Through an Official Immigration Portal
If applying through Uganda, use the official Uganda e-Visa portal.
Uganda’s Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control specifically warns travelers about fraudulent visa websites and identifies the official online visa portal as the authorized application platform.
The official Uganda visa process involves:
Selecting the application type, Choosing the visa category, Completing the electronic form, Uploading the required documents, Submitting the application
Uganda Immigration describes these as the main steps for online visa applications.
Step 4: Pay the Visa Fee
The East Africa Tourist Visa fee is USD 100.
Follow the payment instructions provided by the official immigration system.
Avoid unofficial websites that add unnecessary service charges or claim to provide faster approval.
Step 5: Wait for the Decision
After submission, the application is reviewed by immigration authorities.
Uganda’s immigration authority states that applicants receive an application number that can be used to track their application, while the decision is communicated electronically through the email address provided during application.
Step 6: Print Your Approval
If your application is approved, save and print the approval document.
Carry it with you together with your passport when traveling.
Although much of the process is electronic, having a printed copy can be useful when checking in for your flight or presenting documents at immigration.
How Long Does the East Africa Tourist Visa Take?
Processing times can vary.
Uganda Immigration states that visa applications can take less than three working days, although applicants should not leave their application until the last minute.
For a safari involving gorilla trekking, it is particularly important to plan ahead because your visa is only one part of the preparation process.
You may also need to arrange:
Gorilla trekking permits, Accommodation, Domestic or regional flights, Airport transfers, Safari vehiclesPark permits, Travel insurance, Yellow fever documentation, Airport transfers and border crossings
East Africa Tourist Visa vs Individual Tourist Visas
One of the main advantages of the East Africa Tourist Visa is that it can simplify a multi-country itinerary.
For example, a traveler visiting only Uganda may only need to arrange the appropriate Ugandan entry authorization.
However, a traveler visiting Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya should investigate whether the East Africa Tourist Visa is suitable for the planned itinerary.
Single-Country Trip
If you are visiting only Uganda:
Uganda tourist visa → Uganda
Multi-Country Trip
If you are visiting:
Uganda → Rwanda → Kenya
the East Africa Tourist Visa may allow you to use one regional tourist visa rather than arranging separate tourist visas for each participating country, subject to the applicable rules.
East Africa Tourist Visa for Gorilla Trekking
The East Africa Tourist Visa can be particularly relevant to travelers planning a gorilla trekking holiday involving both Uganda and Rwanda.
Uganda is home to mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, while Rwanda offers gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
A traveler could therefore create a combined itinerary around the Great Lakes region.
For example:
Option 1: Uganda Gorilla Trekking
Entebbe → Bwindi → Gorilla Trekking → Queen Elizabeth National Park → Entebbe
Option 2: Rwanda and Uganda
Kigali → Volcanoes National Park → Gorilla Trekking → Bwindi → Queen Elizabeth National Park
Option 3: East Africa Wildlife and Gorilla Safari
Kigali → Volcanoes → Bwindi → Queen Elizabeth → Nairobi → Maasai Mara
Your tour operator can help organize the itinerary around your preferred trekking destination, accommodation, transport, and available time.
Important East Africa Tourist Visa Rules to Remember
Before traveling, keep the following points in mind.
1. The Visa Is for Tourism
The East Africa Tourist Visa is intended for tourism.
If you are traveling for employment, study, business, residence, or another purpose, you may require a different immigration authorization.
2. Check Passport Validity
Make sure your passport meets the required validity period before applying.
Uganda’s official guidance requires a passport or travel document with at least six months’ validity at entry.
3. Carry Your Visa Approval
Keep a digital copy and, preferably, a printed copy of your approval documentation.
4. Check Yellow Fever Requirements
Yellow fever documentation can be an important part of travel to East Africa.
Requirements can depend on your travel history and countries visited, so check the current health and immigration requirements before departure.
5. Do Not Use Unofficial Visa Websites
This is extremely important.
Uganda’s Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control has warned travelers about fraudulent e-Visa websites and advises applicants to use the official government portal.
Always verify that you are using an official government immigration website before entering passport information or making a payment.
Can You Get the East Africa Tourist Visa on Arrival?
Visa procedures can differ depending on the country, nationality, and circumstances.
Rwanda’s official immigration information lists the East Africa Tourist Visa among visas available on arrival and gives a fee of USD 100.
However, travelers should not rely solely on obtaining the visa at the border without checking the current rules for their nationality and planned entry point.
For a pre-planned safari, applying through the appropriate official channel before travel can make your journey more predictable.
What About Kenya?
Kenya’s entry system is separate from the East Africa Tourist Visa application systems of Uganda and Rwanda.
Kenya currently requires most visitors to obtain an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before starting their journey, although various exemptions apply. Kenya’s official eTA guidance also lists citizens of East African Partner States, including Uganda and Rwanda, among those exempt for stays of up to 180 days, subject to the applicable rules.
Therefore, travelers should check Kenya’s current official entry requirements before including Kenya in an East African itinerary.
This is particularly important because immigration requirements can change.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Applying Through a Fake Website
Always verify that you are using an official government immigration website.
Mistake 2: Waiting Until the Last Minute
Apply early enough to allow time for processing or requests for additional documents.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Passport Validity
Check your passport validity before making your safari arrangements.
Mistake 4: Assuming Every Country Is Covered
The East Africa Tourist Visa is for Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya. If you add Tanzania or another destination, check that country’s immigration requirements separately.
Mistake 5: Confusing Visa Validity With Passport Validity
Your visa validity and passport validity are different requirements.
Always make sure both meet the applicable immigration rules.
Frequently Asked Questions About the East Africa Tourist Visa
How much does the East Africa Tourist Visa cost?
The official East Africa Tourist Visa fee is USD 100.
How long is the East Africa Tourist Visa valid?
The visa is valid for 90 days (three months).
Which countries can I visit with the East Africa Tourist Visa?
The participating destinations are:
Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya
Can I use the visa for gorilla trekking?
Yes, the visa can be relevant for a tourist itinerary that includes gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda, provided you meet the respective immigration and park-entry requirements.
Remember that a gorilla trekking permit is separate from the visa.
Does the East Africa Tourist Visa cover Tanzania?
No. Tanzania has its own immigration and visa requirements.
Do children need an East Africa Tourist Visa?
Visa requirements for children depend on nationality and applicable immigration rules. Check the current official requirements before traveling.
Should I apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa before booking my safari?
It is generally wise to plan your immigration requirements early, particularly when your safari includes fixed-date activities such as gorilla trekking.
Can a tour operator help with my visa application?
A reputable tour operator can provide guidance on the application process and required documents. However, travelers should ensure that applications and payments are made through the appropriate official immigration channels.
Plan Your East African Safari With Confidence
The East Africa Tourist Visa costs USD 100 and is valid for 90 days, making it an important travel document for eligible tourists planning to explore Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya during one trip.
Whether your dream is to trek mountain gorillas in Uganda, see golden monkeys in Rwanda, explore Uganda’s wildlife parks, or experience Kenya’s spectacular savannahs, understanding the visa requirements should be one of the first steps in your travel planning.
Because immigration rules and entry procedures can change, always verify the latest requirements through the official immigration authorities before traveling.
Book Your East Africa Safari With FugaTours and Travel
Planning a multi-country East African adventure can involve more than choosing destinations. You may need to coordinate visas, gorilla trekking permits, accommodation, transportation, park fees, border crossings, flights, and safari activities.
At Fuga Tours and Travel, we can help you plan a customized Uganda, Rwanda, and East Africa safari according to your travel dates, interests, budget, and preferred destinations.
Whether you are looking for a Uganda gorilla trekking safari, Rwanda gorilla safari, Uganda and Rwanda combined safari, Kenya wildlife safari, or a longer East Africa adventure, contact Fuga Tours and Travel to start planning your journey.
Plan your East African safari today and experience the incredible wildlife, primates, landscapes, and cultures of East Africa.