Wheelchair Accessible Adventure Travel

Uganda

Uganda's highlights often involve trekking in rough terrain, and as a result don't lend themselves to people with mobility problems. On top of that, the country as a whole has a tourist industry that is relatively young by East African standards, meaning access for disabled people is rarely a consideration and never a priority. However, depending on your determination and ability, and aided by African resourcefulness, a rewarding trip is possible for most travellers.

Accommodation
In general, it is not easy to find disabled-friendly accommodation in Uganda. Only top of the range hotels and lodges have 'accessible' rooms and even then, I've yet to hear of anywhere sporting grab handles, roll-under sinks and a roll-in shower. Occasionally (more by accident than through design), bathrooms are wheelchair accessible, but where this is not the case, you should be prepared to be lifted, or do your ablutions in the bedroom. Budget disabled travellers will definitely need to compromise, as cheap guesthouses and lodgings are often small and campsites are basic and not ideal for wheelchairs.
The best advice is to research your options in advance. Tour operators will normally take time to listen to your needs, or if you prefer, many hotels can be found and contacted directly via the internet.

Transport

By Air
Entebbe International Airport has wheelchairs but there is no guarantee that a narrow aisle chair will be present. This means that unless you can walk to some degree, entering and exiting the aircraft will be a manhandling affair. Staff will be prepared to help but this service is not as slick as you may be used to.
By Bus
Buses and matatus are cramped, with no facilities for wheelchairs, and getting off and on is often a hectic affair. You may need to fellow passengers to help you to your seat, it will often be crowded and there will not be an accessible toilet. Therefore, unless you can walk at least to some degree then taxi is going to be your only easy way of getting around. If you can cope with these difficulties, then travelling by bus is feasible and is the most affordable method of transport.
By Car
Most tour companies use 4x4s and minibuses, which are higher than normal cars, making transfers more difficult. Drivers and guides are normally happy to help, but they are not trained in this skill so you must thoroughly explain your needs and stay in control of the situation during any transfers.
Distances are great and roads are often bumpy, so if you are prone to skin damage you need to take extra care. If you use one, place your own pressure-relieving cushion on top of (or instead of) the original car seat and if necessary, pad around knees and elbows.

Activities
Gorilla tracking is literally a stumble in the jungle, even for able-bodied people. The guides follow the gorillas from their previous nest and it can mean several hours of hacking through vegetation. You don't need to be super-fit, but check with your tour operator if you think your disability may exclude you. Kibale Forest trails and other primate walks are generally less arduous, but are not designed with wheelchair users in mind. It is also worth remembering that Uganda has a fairly high rainfall and because most of these paths are not purpose built, rather hewn from continued use, they quickly become muddy in wet conditions. On the plus side, although you may need to be helped over obstacles and up steps, there will always be plenty of willing hands to do this. I would offer money for this kind of help but this is often refused.

Health
Ugandan hospitals and pharmacies are often basic, so if possible, take all essential medication and equipment with you. It is advisable to pack this in your hand luggage during flights in case your main luggage gets lost. Doctors will know about 'everyday' illnesses, but you must understand and be able to explain your own particular medical requirements.

Security
It is also worthwhile remembering that as a disabled person, you are more vulnerable. Stay aware of where your bags are and who is around you, especially during car transfers and similar. These activities often draw a crowd, and the confusion creates easy pickings for an opportunist thief.

Specialist Operators
I know of no operators in Uganda who specialise in disability. Having said that, most travel companies will listen to your needs and try to create an itinerary suitable for you. For the independent traveller, it is possible to limit potential surprises by contacting local operators and establishments by email in advance.