Guest Information for International Artists

BAYIMBA INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS 2025
22nd–24th August 2025 | Lunkulu Island, Uganda

We are excited to welcome you to the 17th edition of the Bayimba International Festival of the Arts. Your time and energy as an artist help shape the heart of this festival. This guide provides essential details to help you prepare for your stay and contribute meaningfully to the festival’s success.

ABOUT THE FESTIVAL  

Since its founding in 2008, the Bayimba International Festival of the Arts  has grown into East Africa’s leading multidisciplinary arts event. Organized by the Bayimba Cultural Foundation, the festival brings together artists, cultural leaders, and communities from around the world for three days of music, dance, film, theater, visual arts, and creative exchange. Hosted on the scenic Lunkulu Island, the event is a celebration of culture, sustainability, and human connection.

LUNKULU ISLAND EXPERIENCE  

Lunkulu Island, nestled between Mukono and Buikwe districts on Lake Victoria, offers an eco-friendly setting surrounded by nature. Expect warm daytime weather, cooler nights, and occasional rain, with rustic open-air spaces for performances and interaction.

Please come prepared for diverse weather and terrain.

ACCOMMODATION

(This will be in accordance with your artist contract as previously shared).

Bayimba will provide:

• A tent and mattress at the festival grounds which will be provided by the festival organisers. You will be required to come with beddings, warm clothes, heavy and comfortable clothes for both the very cold weather and the warm atmosphere. You are also required to bring some comfortable shoes for showering and closed shoes for the cold with heavy sookings. 

Artists are requested to bring:

• Warm bedding (e.g. sleeping bag, thick blanket) for cold nights  
• Comfortable clothing  for both daytime heat and evening chill  
• Waterproof or canvas shoes for uneven/rainy terrain  
• Closed-toe shoes for working shifts and walking  
• Towel, flashlight/headlamp, and personal toiletries

There will be shared washing areas and basic facilities on-site.

TRANSPORTATION  

For any transport needs, the following mobile apps are helpful:

Let us know if you need help coordinating movement around town we’re happy to advise.

HEALTH & SAFETY  

Your health is important to us. During the festival:

• A medical team will be on-site to assist with any issues  
• Artists with allergies, chronic conditions, or other medical needs are advised to carry necessary medications and inform our team if specific care is required

Additional recommendations:

• Carry insect repellent  
• Take malaria prophylaxis as advised by your physician  
• A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory upon entry into Uganda (For International Artists)
• Travel insurance is recommended (For International Artists)

VISA & ENTRY  

(For International Artists)

• Passport valid for at least six months  
• Tourist visa ($50 USD) obtained online before travel at for those in countries that require visas for entry into Uganda (http://www.immigration.go.ug)

COMMUNICATION & CURRENCY 

(For International Artists)

• Local SIM cards are inexpensive and available with your passport  
• Mobile data is more reliable than Wi-Fi on the island  
• Local currency: Ugandan Shillings (UGX) cash is essential for most transactions  
• USD notes must be dated 2006 or later to be accepted  

ATMs and forex services are accessible in Entebbe and Kampala before arrival on the island.

KEY CONTACTS

Bayimba Staff contact information

We’re honored to have you join us at Bayimba. Should you have any questions or need assistance while preparing your trip, don’t hesitate to get in touch. We look forward to welcoming you to Lunkulu Island for an unforgettable experience in creativity and community.