Question 1

What currency does Uganda use?

Accepted Answer

Uganda's official currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). Banknotes come in 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000 and 50,000 UGX. US Dollars circulate widely in the tourist economy alongside the shilling, especially for permits and lodges. Exchange rates move, so check a live rate on a currency converter before travelling rather than relying on a fixed figure.

Question 2

How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost and how do I pay?

Accepted Answer

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) sets the fee for mountain-gorilla permits at Bwindi and Mgahinga, and a separate fee for the Kibale chimpanzee habituation experience — check current UWA pricing when you plan, as it changes. Gorilla permits are among the most expensive wildlife experiences in Africa; chimpanzee permits cost a fraction of the gorilla fee. Book well in advance through the UWA or a licensed operator; payment is in USD, by bank transfer or in cash at UWA offices in Kampala.

Question 3

Can I pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay, or contactless in Uganda?

Accepted Answer

Mobile-wallet payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are not accepted in Uganda's commercial environment. A small number of upscale Kampala hotels and restaurants may accept contactless card taps, but even that is not guaranteed. Outside Kampala, cash is the only practical means of payment, so always carry sufficient UGX and USD banknotes for your itinerary beyond the capital.

Question 4

Are ATMs available at national parks and gorilla trekking sites?

Accepted Answer

No. There are no ATMs at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls or Kibale National Park. The nearest banking facilities to Bwindi are in Kabale town, some hours away by road. Withdraw all your cash — UGX for daily expenses and USD for activities — in Kampala before beginning your safari.

Question 5

Is Uganda expensive to visit?

Accepted Answer

Uganda has a very wide cost range. Budget guesthouses, local food (matoke, rolex, street food) and local transport are among the cheapest in East Africa. Gorilla permits, however, immediately make Uganda one of the most expensive wildlife destinations in the world, and national-park lodges span a broad band from mid-range to genuine luxury. Build your budget around the permit cost first, then accommodation — checking current permit and lodge rates rather than relying on any fixed figure.

Question 6

How does tipping work in Uganda?

Accepted Answer

Tipping is expected and appreciated. For gorilla and chimp trackers, a customary amount is given per visitor to the team as a group; guides and driver-guides are tipped a daily amount, and lodge staff a smaller daily amount, typically in small USD bills. In restaurants, around 10% is usual where a service charge is not already included, and boda-boda fares are simply rounded up. Keep a supply of small USD bills and UGX notes set aside specifically for tips.

Question 7

What is MTN Mobile Money and can I use it as a visitor?

Accepted Answer

MTN Mobile Money and Airtel Money are Uganda's dominant payment systems for locals — used to send money, pay bills and buy goods in daily life. They require a Ugandan SIM card registered to a local ID, so they are generally not accessible to short-stay tourists. Use cash (UGX and USD) for all your transactions.

Question 8

Should I exchange money at the airport or in Kampala?

Accepted Answer

For a small amount to cover immediate transport, the airport forex is convenient but offers poorer rates. Kampala's forex bureaux in the city centre (especially along Kampala Road and in Nakasero) give significantly better rates for larger amounts. Bring USD from home — exchanging euros or other currencies to UGX adds a conversion step and a worse rate. Stanbic and Centenary Bank operate among the most reliable ATMs in Kampala.

Money in Uganda

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