Frequently Asked Questions about our Trips
How much do trips usually cost?
Both mission trips and fellowship trips usually range between $2,000-$2,500USD, which includes the flight cost.
What happens if I can no longer attend the trip?
Gen House, Inc. is a IRS-registered 501(c)(3) organization which therefore means that all funds raised or paid for the benefit of the organization are categorized as non-refundable donations to be used for the furtherance of our charitable purposes in Uganda.
How are the trips funded?
Most trips to Uganda are either self-funded or afforded via raising support, which simply means rallying individuals and/or organizations you know to give towards your journey to Uganda. This can be through the use of support letters (samples sent upon request), formal announcements at special gatherings, bake sales, and even car washes. God’s means of provision are limitless!
What do the funds raised for mission trips cover?
- Ground transportation (as a group)
- Accommodation (usually double occupancy)
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, and supper)
- Water (bottled water for the duration of the trip)
- Tourist activities
- Entry visa
What official documents are needed for travel to Uganda?
You will need a passport and granted visa. Your passport must have at least 2 blank pages and should be valid 6 months past the departure date of your mission trip. To obtain a passport, please click here. Visas are applied for AFTER formal acceptance by Gen House is granted to attend a trip and with specific instructions.
What shots/vaccines are needed and where can I get them?
The most convenient office to get the necessary vaccines from is either your local travel clinic or primary care physician’s office. The complete list of vaccines required for this trip are:
1. Malaria prophylaxis (anti-malaria medication)
2. Hepatitis A
3. Typhoid
4. Yellow Fever
For more detailed, health information about traveling to Uganda, please visit: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/uganda.
How are flights to Uganda booked and transportation arranged?
Flights to Uganda for missionaries are typically booked through group travel arrangements made with Delta Airlines and KLM from the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Atlanta, Georgia (ATL) to the Entebbe International Airport in Entebbe, Uganda (EBB). The flight is usually between 18-27 hours with 2-4 layovers. Upon landing in Uganda, you’ll spend one night in Kampala and then travel in a 14-seater safari van or coaster bus with us to Northern Uganda (Gulu) where Gen House is located.
Is there a packing list?
YES! We provide a packing list full of suggested items for your trip once your application has been accepted and approved by our team. Per travel guidelines, you are only allowed two 50 lb. suitcases, plus 2 carry-ons to enter and exit Uganda. However, we may request that you check one 50 lb. bag with your personal items and the other to bring supplies for Gen House in Uganda.
Where will I stay in Uganda?
Accommodation for mission trips is currently outside of the village where Gen House is located, in safe and comfortable hotels. The same applies to fellowship trips no matter where our adventure is!
What can I safely eat and drink in the country?
Ugandans have a very healthy diet in terms of market-fresh produce, home-cooked meals, and very large portion sizes. Their cuisine is comparable to “soul-food” in the United States, also including many fruits and vegetables. During the trip, you will be eating in the homes of families very familiar with our dietary restrictions and sanitation preferences, as well as restaurants with food prepared in the same manner. During your clinic/doctor’s visit for your shots, you will be advised NOT to eat salads, non-peeled foods, and anything washed with the unclean, tap water in Uganda. Although the local people are aware of the contaminated water in their country, they are used to it and very hospitable, particularly when it comes to food. We always say to take precaution by using our “BCP” rule for food and drinks—if it is boiled, peeled, or cooked, you can eat it! Drinking water, also used for brushing teeth, will be bottled water supplied throughout the trip.
What language is spoken in Uganda?
There are over 50 languages spoken in Uganda! However, English is their national language since colonization but it is not the native tongue of Ugandans. Different regions and villages have their own languages distinct to their respective tribes. While most people can speak some English, they prefer their native languages, such as Acholi, which is the tribal language of Ocen, our Co-Founder and the Luo/Acholi people in Northern Uganda. This means that while you will be able to communicate with mostly everyone you encounter in English, some may or may not understand you depending on your foreign accent when saying certain words. Don’t worry! You will be well prepared to at least greet those we come in direct contact with.
Will my phone and debit/credit cards work in Uganda?
YES! However you must contact your service providers and banks prior to ensure that they do not put any blockages on your mobile device or bank account when attempting to use them in the country.
Can I bring items to donate or give away?
YES! Our children and community are very grateful for your generosity. However, before preparing your donations, please contact us directly to learn of the most urgent needs and collection instructions.