The Uganda Shilling (UGX) is the official and dominant currency used countrywide.
When paying for extra services or items that are not included in your safari package, you might be asked to pay in Uganda Shillings most especially in small shops and markets. The exchange rate varies but can check with Bank of Uganda for useful information or ask your consultant – sales@adventureconsults.com .
Banks and forex bureaus are available in Entebbe (the main entry point), Kampala (the capital city) and most towns around Uganda. Always seek for help from Adventure Consults’ guide for assistance.
The US dollar is commonly acceptable in most areas (hotels, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, craft shops and National parks). Tipping of hotel staff, guides and most tourist facilities can be in US dollars, so advisable to have small denominations.
When planning to carry US dollar notes or any other foreign currency, ensure the notes are not damaged or torn at all, crisp clean, no stamps, ink or marking of any form and should be serries not older than the year 2013.
Old dollar notes and those in small denominations carry a lower value in most forex bureaus and Banks.
There are ATM points in Entebbe, Kampala and most towns across the country, but not all of them accept foreign cards.
It’s important to notify your Bank that you will be traveling and have intensions to draw cash from your account using a credit or debit card while in Uganda. This is to avoid inconveniences related to cash limits and worst case denying you transaction for security of your card.
Credit and debit card payments are accepted in most parts of the country but mostly in cities and upmarket safari hotels, lodges, grocery stores, pharmacies and big shops. When out of the main cities/towns, credit card facilities are so popular due to infrastructure and technological challenges.
How much to carry while on safari? This depends on individual spending habits, but can also check on the tipping section for planning purposes or ask Adventure Consults team for assistance.