Thank you so much for choosing to lead a team with Visit Watoto. We’re absolutely delighted to have you join us on this incredible journey. Your decision to bring a team from your church or community will not only leave a lasting impact on the people of Uganda and South Sudan—it will deeply enrich the lives of every team member who takes part.
At Watoto, we believe in the power of partnership. When local churches around the world stand together in love and action, we become part of something truly extraordinary: restoring hope, raising future leaders, and rebuilding nations.
This trip will be more than a short-term mission—it will be a lifechanging experience that strengthens your team’s faith, widens their perspective, and connects them to the heart of what God is doing through His Church globally.
This brochure has been put together with you in mind. Inside, you’ll find all the key information you’ll need to lead your team with confidence—from logistics and timelines to cultural guidance and so much more. We’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
Once again, thank you. We’re excited to welcome you and your team to Uganda, and we’re believing for a remarkable and fruitful trip ahead.
With thanks,
Andrew White Executive Director, Watoto UK
Frst Steps Frst Steps
Visit Watoto, it’s time to start shaping your journey. The early planning stage is crucial—it sets the direction for everything to come. At this point, there are five key steps we need your help on to get things moving.
1. Identify the focus and dates of your trip
Every team experience with Watoto is unique. Some groups come to serve on a build project, others get involved with Baby Watoto, Keep a Girl in School or any of our other Visit Watoto opportunities. Now is the time to prayerfully consider what you’ d like your team to focus on. We’re here to help shape that goal with you, ensuring it aligns with both your church’s strengths and Watoto’s current needs on the ground. Equally we’ll collaborate with you on best dates to visits. Once you’re ready email us at visitwatoto.uk@watoto.com or schedule a meeting here:
2. Pick your accommodation
As part of the planning process, you’ll also need to select your team’s accommodation preference from the list of trusted guest houses and hotels we partner with. Each option has been carefully chosen for its safety, comfort, and proximity to Watoto ministry sites. Whether your team prefers simple and budget-friendly or something with a few more amenities, we’ll help you find the right fit. Confirming your accommodation early ensures availability and helps us finalise your itinerary and overall cost.
3. Consider any group excursions
Many teams like to include an optional excursion—perhaps a safari, a visit to the Equator, or white water rafting. If you’d like to include this as part of your trip, let us know early on. It helps us build a well-paced itinerary that gives a good balance of mission, rest, and once in a lifetime cultural experiences.
4. Finalise your itinerary and initial costings
Once the purpose and excursions are confirmed, we’ll put together a tailored itinerary for your team. With that, we’ll be able to provide an estimated cost per person, which will include flights, all in-country logistics, accommodation, meals, and more. You’ll also receive information to help with budgeting for additional expenses such as visas and vaccinations.
5. Start promoting your trip
With dates, focus, and costs confirmed, you can now begin advertising the trip to your community. We aim to be at this stage about 8 months before the trip date. We’ll provide you with a link to our online sign up form that allows folks to register and pay their trip deposit. From here we’ll keep you up to date regularly with who has signed on to the trip.
Tip Focus Tip Focus
Build Trip
Help renovate homes and classrooms—no experience needed. A practical way to serve and strengthen communities.
Baby Watoto
Care for vulnerable babies, support the amazing local nannies, and experience the beauty of God’s heart for family.
Keep a Girl in School
Provide dignity packs and encouragement to teenage girls across Uganda—helping them stay in school and thrive.
Sponsorship
Bring sponsors to meet their sponsored children and mothers— a deeply personal, unforgettable encounter.
Prayer & Worship
Lead your team in focused intercession on the ground, and partner with our Worship Academy. Grow in seeking more of the Lord together.
Medical
Perfect for churches with medical professionals. Offer vital support through clinics, training, and providing essential care where needed most.
Neighbourhood
Come alongside women in Uganda’s slums—empowering them through skills training, support, and discipleship.
Other
Have something else in mind? Let’s talk! We’ll help shape a trip that fits your team’s passion and gifts.
Accommodation Accommodation
Adonai Guest House - Capacity: 25 people
Adonai Guest House is a welcoming, budget-friendly option located in the Lower Muyenga suburb of Kampala, offering a peaceful retreat away from the city centre. The guest house provides comfortable en-suite rooms, free Wi-Fi, a continental breakfast, and an on-site restaurant serving both local and international cuisine. Guests can relax in the spacious lounge, outdoor seating areas, or on the veranda, which is ideal for enjoying evening sunsets.
Approximate travel times: Watoto Church Downtown: 25 minutes
Watoto Suubi Village: 80 minutes | Watoto Bbira Village: 60 minutes
Best suited for: Budget-conscious teams, short city-based visits, and smaller groups | Price rating: Budget
Mission Guest House - Capacity: 35 people
Mission Guest House is a simple and tranquil guesthouse located in the western part of Kampala. It offers a calm environment for rest and reflection, with comfortable accommodation, free Wi-Fi, and a continental breakfast provided. Guests can enjoy garden views from the terrace, making it a pleasant and relaxed setting for teams visiting Watoto villages for short stays.
Approximate travel times: Watoto Church Downtown: 60 minutes
Watoto Suubi Village: 80 minutes | Watoto Bbira Village: 60 minutes
Best suited for: Budget-conscious teams and medium sized groups | Price rating: Budget
Marahaba Apartment Hotel - Capacity: 20 people
Marahaba Apartment Hotel is a family-friendly aparthotel located in the peaceful area of Kajjansi, approximately 30 minutes from Entebbe International Airport. The property offers individually decorated apartments with kitchenettes, separate sitting areas, and furnished balconies, creating a homely atmosphere. Guests benefit from complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, on-site dining, and access to a garden and children’s play areas.
Approximate travel times: Watoto Church Downtown: 50 minutes
Watoto Suubi Village: 60 minutes | Watoto Bbira Village: 45 minutes
Best suited for: Families, smaller teams, and trips focused on Suubi and Bbira villages | Price rating: Mid-range
La Vena Hotel - Capacity: 35 people
La Vena Hotel is a comfortable and well-appointed hotel situated in the quiet suburb of Kajjansi, within easy reach of both Kampala and Entebbe International Airport. The hotel offers modern en-suite rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary breakfast. Guests can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, landscaped gardens, and on-site restaurants serving local and international cuisine.
Approximate travel times: Watoto Church Downtown: 45 minutes
Watoto Suubi Village: 45 minutes | Watoto Bbira Village: 40 minutes
Best suited for: Mid-sized teams, comfortable village-based trips, and airport-accessible stays | Price rating: Mid-range
Hilton Garden Inn Kampala - Capacity: 96 people
Hilton Garden Inn Kampala is a contemporary four-star hotel located on Kira Road, opposite the British High Commission, in the heart of the city. The hotel offers modern rooms with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, alongside facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, and an on-site restaurant serving local & international dishes.
Approximate travel times: Watoto Church Downtown: 10 minutes
Watoto Suubi Village: 70 minutes | Watoto Bbira Village: 45 minutes
Best suited for: Larger teams, church programmes, and guests seeking higher-comfort accommodation | Price rating: Mid-range
ONOMO Hotel Kampala - Capacity: 100+ people
ONOMO Hotel Kampala is a modern and stylish hotel located on Nakasero Hill, close to key city amenities. It offers contemporary guest rooms and serviced apartments with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy Afro-fusion and international cuisine at the Restaurant & Terrace, as well as facilities including an outdoor pool, fitness centre, and spa.
Approximate travel times: Watoto Church Downtown: 10 minutes
Watoto Suubi Village: 70 minutes | Watoto Bbira Village: 45 minutes
Best suited for: Large groups, short city stays, and teams prioritising Kampala churches | Price rating: Mid-range
Fairway Hotel - Capacity: 200 people
Fairway Hotel Kampala is a well-established hotel located in the heart of the city, offering a blend of comfort and convenience. The hotel provides well-appointed rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a strong reputation for quality dining. Facilities include a swimming pool, fitness centre, and multiple on-site dining options serving local and international cuisine.
Approximate travel times: Watoto Church Downtown: 10 minutes
Watoto Suubi Village: 70 minutes | Watoto Bbira Village: 45 minutes
Best suited for: Very large teams, and very close to Watoto Church Downtown | Price rating: Premium
Four Points
people
Four Points by Sheraton Kampala is a sleek and contemporary city hotel located in an upscale area of Kampala. The hotel offers modern rooms with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, along with premium facilities including a rooftop heated pool, a fully equipped fitness centre, and multiple dining venues, including a rooftop restaurant.
Approximate travel times: Watoto Church Downtown: 10 minutes
Watoto Suubi Village: 70 minutes | Watoto Bbira Village: 45 minutes
Best suited for: Large teams, higher-comfort stays, and city-focused itineraries | Price rating: Premium
by Sheraton Kampala - Capacity: 200+
Accommodation
Tilenga Safari Lodge
Tilenga Safari Lodge is a stylish and tranquil retreat perched at the northern edge of Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda, overlooking the majestic Albert Nile. The lodge features a selection of elegant, thatched cottages and elevated tents, each with private terraces or balconies offering sweeping views of the river and savannah beyond.
Guests enjoy modern comfort in a setting that blends naturally with the landscape through eco-conscious design and thoughtful amenities. On offer are guided game drives into the park’s Buligi region, boat cruises along the Nile to Murchison Falls, hikes to the top of the waterfall, and sport fishing for Nile perch. With its intimate size, riverside ambiance, excellent hospitality, and wide range of immersive activities, Tilenga Safari Lodge is ideal for travelers seeking both serenity and authentic adventure at the heart of Uganda’s wilderness.
Sambiya River Lodge
Sambiya River Lodge is a peaceful and eco-conscious retreat nestled on the banks of the Sambiya River in Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda. Just a short drive from the falls themselves, it offers an intimate safari experience with thatched cottages surrounded by lush wilderness. Each accommodation features en-suite bathrooms, screened verandas, mosquito nets, and solar-powered hot water, blending comfort with a rustic charm.
Guests can relax by the pool, enjoy meals in the open-air dining area, and unwind under the stars beside the river. With guided game drives, river boat cruises, birdwatching, nature walks, fishing, and evening campfires, the lodge brings you close to wildlife in a serene setting. Known for its warm hospitality, relaxed pace, and ecofriendly ethos, Sambiya River Lodge is ideal for travelers who seek an authentic yet comfortable immersion into Uganda’s wild heart.
Paraa Safari Lodge
Paraa Safari Lodge is a historic and elegant retreat located on the northern bank of the Victoria Nile in Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda. Established in 1954, the lodge offers a blend of old-world safari charm and modern comfort, with stunning views of the river and surrounding wilderness.
Guests can choose from a range of accommodations including rooms, suites, safari tents, and a family cottage—all designed to provide comfort and a close connection to nature. The lodge features a swimming pool, spa, restaurant, bar, and conference facilities. Activities include game drives, boat cruises to the base of Murchison Falls, bird watching, and nature walks. Paraa Safari Lodge is ideal for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation in one of Uganda’s most scenic and wildlife-rich environments.
Chobe Safari Lodge
Chobe Safari Lodge in Uganda is a luxurious riverside retreat located within Murchison Falls National Park, offering breathtaking views of the Nile and abundant wildlife. Just 5 hours from Kampala or accessible via airstrip, the lodge features elegant rooms, safari tents, a spa, infinity pool, and excellent dining.
Guests can enjoy game drives, boat cruises, birding, nature walks, and visits to the dramatic Murchison Falls. Its modern amenities and scenic setting make it ideal for couples, families and groups seeking both comfort and adventure in Uganda’s wild north.
Safari
Excursions Excursions
This is by far the most popular add-on to a Visit Watoto trip —and for good reason! A 2-day, 1-night safari offers your team the unforgettable opportunity to see lions, elephants, hippos, giraffes, leopards, monkeys, and more, all in their natural habitat. The experience includes all transportation, meals, lodging, and national park entrance fees. Safari jeeps can also be hired for game drives at an additional cost.
If your team is interested in including a safari, please inform your UK Visit Watoto Coordinator as early as possible. Safari lodges tend to book up quickly—especially in the summer months—so we recommend confirming your interest at least six months in advance to secure your preferred dates and accommodation.
Price: Approximately £500 per person depending on team size.
White Water Rafting
For an unforgettable adventure, spend a day rafting on the worldfamous River Nile. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling ride or a more relaxed experience, there are options to suit all ages and fitness levels. The popular Family Float Trip offers a gentler, scenic journey lasting around three hours, ideal for those who prefer a calmer pace. Team members are welcome to choose the rafting experience that suits them best, and everyone comes together afterwards to enjoy a delicious riverside BBQ lunch—making it a great day out for the whole group.
Price: Approximately £100pp for a half day and £150pp for a full day, or £60pp for the family float trip.
Fishing on Lake Victoria
Enjoy a peaceful yet exhilarating day on the waters of Africa’s largest lake as you try your hand at catching the legendary Nile perch. Surrounded by stunning scenery, this fishing trip offers a unique way to experience the beauty of Uganda from a different perspective. The excursion includes all equipment, a hearty breakfast, and a freshly prepared lunch on board—making it a memorable and relaxing outing for those who love the outdoors.
Price: Depends on group size, but approximately £100pp for a half day and £140pp for a full day.
Equator Trip
No trip to Uganda is complete without a stop at the Equator! Stand with one foot in the northern hemisphere and the other in the southern—it’s a fun and iconic photo opportunity your team won’t want to miss. You’ll also enjoy engaging demonstrations that show how water flows differently on each side of the equator. With local craft shops, coffee stops, and great photo spots, it’s the perfect short excursion to break up a travel day or add a cultural moment to your itinerary.
Price: Approximately £50pp per person.
Rhino Sanctuary
Get up close to one of Africa’s most magnificent creatures at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Guided on foot by trained rangers, you’ll experience the thrill of tracking these endangered animals while learning about the sanctuary’s vital conservation work. The visit also offers the chance to spot a variety of birds and other wildlife in the surrounding bush. It’s an inspiring and educational excursion that pairs well with a safari or as a meaningful stop on your journey north.
Price: Approximately £50pp per person.
Sample Itinerary Sample Itinerary
Date Time Activity
9:00am Arrive at Gatwick Airport
Day 1
12:30pm Depart Gatwick Airport 11:30pm Arrive Entebbe Airport, Uganda and meet Watoto host 11:45pm Drive to accommodation
Day 2
9:00am Breakfast
10:30am
Proceed to Watoto Church Downtown for orientation
12:30pm Lunch at Cafe Javas
2:00pm Visit Neighbourhood Workshop and Community
6:00pm Dinner and reflections
Day 3
8:00am Breakfast 9:00am Proceed to Watoto Church for 10am Service
1:00pm Lunch at hotel 2:00pm Rest 4:30pm Proceed to Ndere Cultural Center for show and dinner 10:00pm Return to accommodation
Date Time Activity
7:00am Breakfast
8:00am Proceed to Suubi for village tour (Baby Watoto, Technical Institute, Goat Farm)
12:30pm Traditional lunch with Watoto family
Day 4
Day 5
2:30pm Continue Suubi village visit (Worship Academy, Sports Academy)
4:30pm Return to hotel
7:00pm Dinner and reflections
Day 6
7:00am Breakfast
8:00am Proceed to Bbira for village visit & volunteering
1:00pm Light lunch
2:30pm Continue with volunteering
4:30pm Return to hotel
7:00pm Dinner and reflections
7:00am Breakfast
8:00am Proceed to Bbira for volunteering
1:00pm Light lunch
2:30pm Continue with volunteering
4:30pm Return to hotel
7:00pm Dinner and reflections with Watoto Pastor
Date Time Activity
7:00am Breakfast
Days 7 & 8
Day 9
8:00am Proceed to Bbira for volunteering
1:00pm Light lunch
2:30pm Continue with volunteering
4:30pm Return to hotel
7:00pm Dinner and reflections
Day 10
7:00am Breakfast
8:00am Proceed to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
1:00pm Lunch
2:00pm Return to hotel
5:00pm Rest
7:00pm Appreciation Dinner with Visit Watoto Team
5:00am Depart for Entebbe Airport
9:30am Flight to Gatwick Airport
5:00pm Arrive Gatwick Airport
Costings & Payments Costings & Payments
We want to make sure you and your team feel fully informed about the financial side of your Visit Watoto trip. Below is a breakdown of typical costs to help you plan and communicate clearly with your group.
Flights – Approx. £600
Each individual is responsible for booking their own return flight to Entebbe International Airport. We’ll provide guidance on suitable flight options and timings, and our team is on hand to assist if needed. We are able to provide a discount code with Uganda Airlines should your team be choosing to fly direct from London Gatwick. This is our recommended route and usually provides the quickest travel day to Uganda.
Visit Watoto Fee – Approx. £1000
This cost covers all on-the-ground expenses including, accommodation, all meals, bottled water, in-country transport, and your dedicated Visit Watoto host throughout the trip. This fee is payable to the Watoto UK office no later than six weeks before your trip. Please note there is a £150 surcharge for those wishing to have a room to themselves.
Excursions
Excursion prices vary and are listed separately with approximate costs. Options include safari, white-water rafting, and other memorable experiences. If your group is interested in additional excursions, we’re happy to provide pricing on request.
Visa – $50 USD
All travellers must apply for and pay for their own Ugandan entry visa online before departure. The Watoto UK team will provide clear guidance and support throughout this process.
Personal Spending Money – £50–£100
We recommend bringing a small amount of personal spending money for souvenirs, snacks, and any personal items.
Vaccinations & Malaria Medication – Approx. £200
The required vaccinations depend on what each traveller already has. Typically, you can expect to spend around £200 to get everything you need. We recommend checking with your GP or a travel clinic early on for personalised advice.
Other
There are other costs that individuals may incur for things such as laundry services onsite, or if they’d like to get drinks with their meal besides water.
Tmeline Tmeline
Timeline Activity
9 Months Before Trip
• Choose the focus for your trip
• Choose the date for your trip
• Pick your accommodation
• Pick your excursions
8 Months Before Trip
• We will be able to provide a draft itinerary & costings
• Start promoting the trip to your church and invite sign ups through our online form
• Individuals will start signing up and paying the non-refundable £100 deposit (deposits are only refundable if the trip is cancelled well in advance, or if the individual does not pass the reference check)
• As we receive applications we’ll keep you updated with who is signing up. Every team member goes through a reference check, which usually is very straight forwards if you know them and can approve them joining. If not, we’ll collaborate with you to make sure you are happy with who is on the trip
Timeline Activity
6 Months Before Trip
• We’ll arrange to have Meeting One with the team signed up so far, which sometimes includes a few extras who haven’t fully decided yet
• Team start booking their flights
3 Months Before Trip
• We’ll arrange to have Meeting Two with the team who have booked flights
• Team start applying for their visas
• We’ll launch the Team WhatsApp group to encourage dialogue and questions. Our UK Visit Watoto Coordinator will be on the group to help ensure all questions are answered quickly
3 Weeks Before Trip
• We’ll arrange to have Meeting Three with the team who have received their visas
• We’ll confirm final plans for travel day and itinerary Trip
• We’ll welcome you to Uganda and look after the team throughout your trip
2 Weeks After Trip
• We’ll arrange to have Meeting Four with the team for debrief
Team Meetings Team Meetings
To help your team feel confident, connected, and spiritually prepared, we provide four key team meetings—three before your trip and one after. These sessions are run by the Watoto UK Team, either in person or online, depending on what works best for your group. They are designed to take the pressure off you as a team leader while ensuring your team is fully equipped for the journey ahead.
In this first session, we’ll introduce your team to Watoto’s mission and the heart behind the trip. It’s also the moment we outline what team members can expect from the experience, answer initial questions, and invite everyone to begin booking flights. This is a great way to set the tone and build excitement as the journey begins.
Led by the Watoto UK Team, this session focuses on the practical details. We’ll walk your team through the packing list, talk about thoughtful gifts to bring, go over the trip itinerary, and ensure everyone understands the visa process. It’s a clear and helpful way to make sure no one feels unsure about what’s ahead.
Meeting 3: Final Preparations (Three weeks before)
This final pre-trip meeting is about tying up loose ends. We’ll confirm last details, review travel day logistics, pray together, and prepare hearts as well as suitcases. We also take time to talk through Ugandan culture and how to serve with humility and flexibility.
Meeting 4: Team Debrief (Two weeks after)
Once your team is back in the UK, we’ll reconnect for a final debrief session. It’s a space to share stories, reflect on the impact of the trip, and talk about what’s next—whether that’s ongoing involvement with Watoto or sharing the experience with your church. These sessions often become a meaningful conclusion to what God has started through the trip.
1. What will the itinerary consist of?
Our UK Visit Watoto Coordinator will work with you to provide an initial draft itinerary around 8 months before departure meeting the goals for your trip. A final itinerary will be available a week before arrival. Activities include your chosen project, a visit to Watoto Church, time in our villages, meals with local staff, a traditional lunch in a Watoto home, and a visit to the craft market.
2. What type of accommodation will we stay in?
Teams stay in Watoto-approved guest houses or hotels. Rooms are basic but comfortable, sometimes shared (some sleep 3–4 people), and include daily housekeeping and 24-hour security. Most locations have basic air conditioning or fans.
3. Can we do laundry in Uganda?
Yes. Laundry is available at most accommodations and can usually be returned within 24 hours.
4. What kind of power supply is used in Uganda?
Uganda uses the same 240-volt power supply and plug type as the UK—no adapter needed.
5. How do we get around?
From the moment you land, through to the time you depart, you’ll have a Ugandan driver and a Watoto host available.
6. How early should we confirm a safari?
Safari lodges book quickly—especially in the summer— so we recommend confirming your interest at least six months in advance when possible.
7. Where do we keep our valuables?
On arrival, valuables (passports, money, etc.) can be securely stored at Watoto Church or in the safe at your accommodation.
8. What currency is used?
Ugandan Shillings (UGX). We can help your team exchange money on arrival, or you can do it in advance with ManorFX. You can also withdraw cash at ATMs or pay with Visa/Mastercard in some locations.
9. What vaccinations are required?
Yellow Fever certificate is mandatory unless you have a medical exemption letter. Other vaccinations depend on individual history, but budget approximately £200 including for malaria medications. Consult your GP or travel clinic early.
10. Do I need a passport?
Yes—your passport must have been issued no earlier than 9.5 years before you depart Uganda or 4.5 years for a child’s passport.
11. How do we apply for visas?
Apply online at www.visas.immigration.go.ug - The cost is $50 USD, and your visa will be stamped at Entebbe Airport. The Watoto UK team will support you through the process.
12. Is internet available?
All of our preferred accommodation options offer Wi-Fi, but you may find that this is slower and less reliable than what you are used to.
13. Will we interact with children?
Absolutely! Every team spends a good amount of time in our Watoto Villages and you will have plenty of time to visit with the Watoto kids and mothers.
14. Can I sponsor a child before I go?
We recommend signing up to sponsor before you go so that you can start writing back and forth before your arrival and building a relationship. Visit watoto.com to sign up to sponsor today. Sponsorship starts from £28/month or £336/year.
15. Is English widely spoken?
Yes. Watoto Church is English-speaking, and nearly all staff, children, and caregivers speak English.
16. Should I share personal contact info?
Please do not share your email, phone number, or home address —especially with children—for safeguarding reasons.
17. What’s the best time of year to visit?
Given Uganda’s year-round warm climate, it’s always a good time to visit. December can prove a busy time of year for team on the ground in Uganda, but the rest of the year is great!
18. What is the weather like?
Uganda’s climate is warm year-round. Expect highs around 28°C and lows around 21°C. Evenings can feel cooler, especially after rain.
19. What is the dress code?
Dress modestly and comfortably. Bring at least one smart-casual outfit for church and one long-sleeved item for cooler evenings. For build teams, remember to bring clothes that can get very dusty and muddy!
20. When should we start advertising the trip?
Once your itinerary and approximate costings are drafted with Watoto UK, you’re ready to begin promoting the trip and inviting sign-ups.
21. Who handles the team meetings?
Our Watoto UK team will run all four of your team meetings, either in person or online. These sessions prepare your team for every stage of the trip and help everyone feel confident and equipped.
22. How are team payments handled?
Each individual books their own flight. The Visit Watoto fee is paid also by the individuals to the Watoto UK office six weeks prior to departure.
Any other questions? We’d love to hear from you! Get in touch by emailing visitwatoto.uk@watoto.com or calling 020 3225 1048 (ext 3)
