Uganda travel tips for first-timers: What to know

Uganda is not the kind of place you ease into. One moment you're bouncing down a dirt road toward a hidden crater lake, the next you're deep in rainforest tracking mountain gorillas. Cities like Kampala are loud, unpredictable, and completely addictive. Outside the capital, things slow down but stay intense. Wildlife is wild, roads can surprise you, and not everything runs on time. That’s part of the charm. But turning up unprepared means missing the good stuff or worse, getting stuck. From what to pack to what to skip, these Uganda travel tips will help you stay safe, eat well, and make the most of your time in one of East Africa’s most unforgettable countries.

When is the best time to visit Uganda?

Uganda doesn’t follow a fixed weather script. One region might be soaked while another is bone dry, and the skies in Kampala can flip from sunshine to storm in minutes. The best time to visit Uganda depends on what you want to do: trekking, safaris, birdwatching, or just avoiding mud.

• The dry seasons, from June to August and December to February, are ideal for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. Trails are easier, and wildlife is more visible in places like Bwindi, Kibale, and Queen Elizabeth National Park. You’ll still get the odd tropical shower, but conditions are far more manageable.
• The wet seasons, from March to May and again in September and October, bring heavy rains and slippery roads. That said, the landscape turns vibrant, lodges lower their rates, and birdwatching is at its peak. Gorilla permits can also be easier to get.

If you're planning a packed itinerary with trekking, game drives, and some lake time, stick to the dry months. But if you’re flexible and don’t mind a bit of mud, the rainy season offers fewer crowds and a wilder, greener Uganda.

Is Uganda expensive?

Uganda is affordable day to day, but the big-ticket experiences come with serious price tags. You can eat well for a few dollars, sleep in decent guesthouses, and hop on public transport for next to nothing. But once you factor in gorilla trekking permits, park entry fees, and long-distance travel, costs climb fast.

The most expensive activity is Uganda gorilla trekking. A permit costs hundreds of dollars and is non-negotiable. Wildlife safaris, especially in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth, also come with park fees, vehicle hire, and fuel costs. Add guided activities, and a simple safari can quickly go from affordable to premium.

Still, Uganda rewards budget travelers willing to rough it a little. Local meals like rolex and matoke are cheap and filling. Shared taxis and boda-bodas get you around, even if comfort takes a hit. Backpacker lodges and campsites offer beds from $10 to $30 per night.

On a mid-range budget ($100 to $200 per day), you can hire a car and driver, stay in good lodges, and join guided treks or boat trips. Spend more and you’ll find intimate lodges, private safaris, and serious comfort in remote spots.

Tipping is expected for guides, rangers, and drivers, so plan for that too.

Is Uganda safe for travelers?

Uganda is generally safe, but it pays to stay alert and informed. Most visits are trouble-free, and Ugandans tend to be warm, curious, and welcoming. That said, infrastructure can be rough, city crime does exist, and remote travel comes with its own risks.

Kampala is busy and chaotic, especially in the central districts. Pickpocketing happens in crowded areas, and traffic is unpredictable at best. Avoid walking alone at night in cities or unfamiliar towns. Ask your accommodation about safe areas, and use ride-hailing apps like SafeBoda instead of flagging random motorcycle taxis.

In rural regions, the risks are more about logistics: getting stuck on bad roads, running out of fuel, or losing signal in remote parks. If you’re self-driving, plan carefully, carry extra supplies, and avoid driving at night. Police checkpoints are common; stay polite and keep a copy of your passport with your visa stamp.

Solo travel is doable with common sense. Women can travel alone, but dressing modestly and avoiding isolated areas after dark is a smart move. LGBTQ+ travelers should be cautious in public, as attitudes can be conservative.

To stay safe, follow these Uganda travel tips:

• Avoid city travel at night unless in a private car or taxi.
• Keep valuables out of sight, especially phones and cameras.
• Stick to marked hiking trails and hire local guides where possible.
• Don’t flash money or expensive gear in markets or rural villages.
• Be aware of border area advisories and check current travel alerts.
• On wildlife safaris or treks, follow your guide’s instructions at all times.

Do you need a visa for Uganda?

In most cases, yes. Uganda requires a visa for most travelers, but the process is simple if you plan ahead. The key is applying online before you arrive and making sure you meet the entry requirements.

Most travelers need an e-visa

Citizens of the US, UK, most EU countries, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand must apply for a tourist e-visa before arrival. It’s valid for 90 days and can be used at airports and land borders. Apply through the official Uganda Immigration website and allow at least a week for processing. You’ll need a passport valid for six months, a recent passport photo, a yellow fever certificate, and proof of your accommodation or travel plans.

Visa-free entry is limited

Only a handful of African countries, including Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania, have visa-free or visa-on-arrival agreements with Uganda. Everyone else needs to sort it out in advance.

Considering a wider East Africa trip?

You can apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa, which covers Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda on a single entry. Just make sure you enter the region through the country that issued the visa.

Print your approval letter before travel. You’ll need to show it on arrival.

How to stay healthy while traveling in Uganda

Uganda is not a high-risk destination, but staying healthy here takes some planning. You’ll spend time outdoors, often in remote areas far from major hospitals. Clinics exist in towns, but once you’re deep in the bush or bouncing through a national park, help can be hours away. Good travel insurance is essential.

Medical care and pharmacies

Kampala and larger towns like Jinja and Fort Portal have decent private clinics and pharmacies. Meds are usually available over the counter, but not always in the brands you know. Outside major towns, medical care is basic at best, and ambulances are rare. If something serious happens, you’ll need an evacuation plan.

What to pack in your health kit:

• Any prescription meds, plus a paper copy of the prescription.
• First-aid basics like antiseptics, plasters, rehydration salts, and painkillers.
• Insect repellent with DEET for mosquitoes and tsetse flies.
• High-SPF sunscreen. The equatorial sun hits hard, even on cloudy days.
• Hand sanitizer and tissues for rural toilets and roadside stops.

Vaccinations and disease risks

Check with a travel clinic well before your trip.

• Yellow fever: required for entry if arriving from a risk country. Some airlines also check at boarding.
• Typhoid and hepatitis A: recommended for most travelers.
• Tetanus: essential if you’re trekking or doing any outdoor activities.
• Malaria: present throughout most of the country, including safari parks. Take antimalarials and use repellent every day.

Food, water, and stomach safety

Tap water is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled, filtered, or boiled water, even in cities. Avoid ice unless you’re sure it’s from safe water.

Food is generally safe if hot and freshly made. Popular dishes like matoke, beans, and grilled meats are fine when served straight off the fire. Be more cautious at roadside stalls or petrol stations where food may have been sitting out too long.

A refillable bottle with a filter helps cut plastic waste and keeps you covered in remote areas.

Cultural etiquette to know before visiting Uganda

Uganda is friendly, curious, and full of small social rules that matter more than they seem. Most people won’t expect you to know every custom, but they’ll appreciate it when you make the effort. From greetings to table manners, here’s what to keep in mind when navigating day-to-day life.

Dress: modest and practical

Ugandans tend to dress neatly and conservatively, especially outside the main cities.

• In Kampala, casual wear is fine, but smart-casual looks more respectful.
• In rural areas or religious spaces, avoid short shorts, tank tops, or anything revealing.
• Swimwear is fine at lakes and pools, but should be covered up when you leave the water.
• If visiting someone’s home or a local village, err on the side of modest.

Greetings and social norms: polite and personal

People value proper greetings, and rushing into a conversation without one can feel rude.

• A handshake is standard, often with a light touch or snap at the end.
• Use “sir” or “madam” when addressing elders or officials.
• Greet people with a smile, and don’t be surprised if strangers ask how you are: it’s not small talk, it’s polite.
• Avoid pointing or putting your feet on chairs or tables.

Public behavior: relaxed, not loud

Uganda isn’t uptight, but dramatic or loud behavior in public is frowned upon.

• Speak respectfully, especially to elders or in front of children.
• Public displays of affection are uncommon outside of urban settings.
• Always ask before taking someone’s photo, especially in rural areas or markets.
• Littering is a big deal. Many communities take pride in keeping their surroundings clean.

Eating customs: simple and respectful

Food is often shared, and meals are a social moment.

• Wash your hands before and after eating, especially in homes or traditional settings.
• Ugandans usually eat with their right hand. Use cutlery if provided, but if others are eating by hand, follow their lead.
• Try what’s offered. Even a small taste shows respect and appreciation.
• Don’t sniff your food or complain; it’s considered rude.

Religion and traditions

Uganda is religious, mostly Christian and Muslim, with strong community ties and spiritual traditions.

• Dress modestly when visiting churches, mosques, or religious events.
• Remove your shoes if entering a home or religious space where it’s customary.
• Don’t take photos during prayers or ceremonies unless clearly invited to.
• Ask questions if you’re curious, but be tactful; some topics are private.

Tipping and everyday manners

Tipping isn’t enforced, but it’s expected and often makes a big difference.

• In restaurants, tip around 5-10 percent.
• Safari guides and drivers usually receive $5-10 per day, more for exceptional service.
• At petrol stations, a small tip for checking tires or washing windows is appreciated.
• Saying “thank you” in a local language goes a long way. Try “Webale” in Luganda or “Apwoyo” in Acholi.

A little respect, a few greetings, and a willingness to listen will get you far in Uganda. People are welcoming, and they’ll welcome you even more if you meet them halfway.

Is Uganda a good destination for families?

Yes, if your idea of a family holiday involves real-life adventure, not water parks and cartoon mascots. Uganda with kids is all about hippos at sunset, boat rides on the Nile, and monkeys outside your lodge window. You won’t find changing tables or stroller-friendly sidewalks everywhere, but if your crew is up for wildlife, nature, and getting a little muddy, Uganda delivers.

Where to go with kids in Uganda

Lake Bunyonyi: Calm, scenic, and free of crocodiles and hippos, this lake is a great base for families. Rent a canoe, swim, or hike between villages. Lodges range from budget to boutique, and many are kid-friendly.

• Queen Elizabeth National Park: Spot elephants, buffalo, and tree-climbing lions on a game drive, then take a boat trip on the Kazinga Channel. Lodges near the park often have wide-open space for kids to explore, just keep an eye out for wandering warthogs.
• Jinja: Adventure central. Older kids can try tubing or paddleboarding on the Nile. Younger ones will love the boat rides, nature walks, and open-air restaurants along the riverbanks.
• Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: An easy stop between Kampala and Murchison Falls. Guided rhino walks are safe and suitable for older children. There’s also birdwatching, bush trails, and simple lodges on-site.
• Murchison Falls National Park: Uganda’s largest park is a hit with families. Go on a game drive, take a boat to the base of the falls, or just watch baboons loitering near the lodge. Malaria precautions are a must, but the reward is big wildlife without big crowds.

Getting around Uganda with kids

Getting around Uganda is part of the adventure, and sometimes the challenge. Roads are bumpy and distances can be long, so patience matters. A private car with a driver is the easiest option for families. Self-driving is possible, but not ideal unless you’re experienced with African road conditions.

• Public transport is cramped and unpredictable. Not recommended with small children.
• Car seats are not common. Bring your own if safety is a priority.
• Petrol stations can be surprisingly useful pit stops. Most have toilets, snacks, and room to stretch.

Family-friendly places to stay in Uganda

Accommodation in Uganda ranges from basic bandas to upscale safari lodges. Many are used to hosting families, but check in advance about child policies and age limits on activities.

• National park lodges often have big family rooms and open grounds.
• Guesthouses and eco-lodges offer self-contained cottages with kitchens.
• Farm stays and community-run lodges give kids a chance to see rural life up close.
• Luxury lodges may have age restrictions on game drives or gorilla treks, so ask before booking.

Food, supplies, and keeping kids happy

Food is simple and easy to adapt. Rice, chicken, fried potatoes, and chapatis are everywhere. Most lodges will accommodate picky eaters if you give them a heads-up.

• Supermarkets in cities stock basics like diapers, powdered milk, and snacks. Once you're in rural areas, selection drops off, so bring what you need.
• Tap water is not safe to drink. Use bottled or filtered water for everyone, including brushing teeth.
• Pack hats, sunscreen, and lightweight long sleeves. Even in cool areas, the equatorial sun is strong.
• Evenings can get chilly, especially near the lakes or in the highlands. A fleece or hoodie comes in handy.
• Don’t count on fast service in restaurants. Bring a book, cards, or something to keep the kids occupied while you wait.

What are the best places to visit in Uganda?

Uganda doesn’t show off. It just waits for you to notice. One minute you’re surrounded by tea fields, the next you’re tracking gorillas through misty forest or cruising past hippos on the Nile. It’s not polished, but it’s powerful, and the best places to visit in Uganda each leave their mark.

• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: This is the one you’ve heard of, and for good reason. Gorilla trekking here is tough, muddy, and emotional in the best way. You'll hike for hours, then lock eyes with a silverback. Nothing prepares you for it.
• Murchison Falls National Park: Uganda’s largest park delivers serious wildlife and serious drama. Watch the Nile explode through a 7-meter gap at the falls, then cruise below with elephants on the banks and crocs in the water.
• Queen Elizabeth National Park: Tree-climbing lions, crater lakes, and classic savannah game drives. Add a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel and chimp tracking in Kyambura Gorge, and you’ve got Uganda in one park.
• Lake Bunyonyi: A peaceful spot after trekking. No hippos or crocs, so you can swim, paddle, or just float. Surrounded by terraced hills and misty mornings, it’s one of Uganda’s most scenic escapes.
• Kibale Forest National Park: Home to over a thousand chimps, this is the best place in East Africa to see them in the wild. Guided treks also reveal red colobus monkeys, rare birds, and dense rainforest.
• Jinja: Adrenaline meets chill. Raft the Nile, go kayaking, or just sip a beer by the water. It’s the adventure capital of Uganda, but also great for families and slow mornings.
• Kampala: Uganda’s chaotic, colorful capital is loud, busy, and strangely addictive. Dive into street food, live music, craft markets, and local bars. It’s not polished, but it’s real.
• Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: The only place in Uganda to see white rhinos in the wild. Trek on foot with a guide and watch these huge animals grazing calmly in the open savannah. A good stop on the way to Murchison Falls.
• Rwenzori Mountains: Uganda’s answer to the Alps, but wilder and wetter. Known as the Mountains of the Moon, the Rwenzoris are for serious trekkers, with multi-day hikes through glaciers, bamboo forests, and alpine valleys.
• Sipi Falls: Three crashing waterfalls set against coffee farms and Mount Elgon’s foothills. Great for hiking, abseiling, or just cooling off in the mist. Sunsets here are next-level.
• Lake Victoria: Africa’s largest lake has peaceful islands, birdlife, and fishing villages worth exploring. Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary and the Ssese Islands both offer quiet escapes from the mainland buzz.
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Smaller than Bwindi but no less special. Track gorillas, climb a volcano, or meet the Batwa people on a guided forest walk. If you want a less-crowded alternative to Bwindi, start here.

How long to spend in Uganda?

Uganda looks small on the map, but it doesn’t travel like a small country. Roads are rough, distances feel longer than they look, and rushing only means missing the good stuff. You can see highlights in a week, but if you want gorillas and game drives and time to actually enjoy it all, slower is smarter.

Ask yourself:

• Are you flying in and out of Entebbe, or crossing by land from Kenya or Rwanda?
• Are you hiring a driver, using self-driving, or relying on buses?
• Do you want gorillas, safaris, culture, lakes, or all of it?

Rough timing breakdown

• 1 week in Uganda: Keep it tight. A gorilla trek in Bwindi plus a couple of days at Lake Bunyonyi to recover is realistic. Or focus on Murchison Falls for big game and a boat safari, with a quick visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary on the way. Don’t try to do both.
• 10 days in Uganda: Enough time to mix trekking, wildlife, and some downtime. Do gorillas in Bwindi, head to Queen Elizabeth for game drives and the Kazinga Channel, then relax by Lake Bunyonyi or squeeze in chimp tracking in Kibale. Travel days eat time, so plan your route carefully.
• 2 weeks in Uganda: The ideal balance. You can loop from Entebbe through Murchison Falls, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, and Bwindi without feeling rushed. Add a few days in Jinja or Lake Mburo if you want variety: rafting, horse riding, or simply kicking back by the water.
• 3 to 4 weeks in Uganda: Now you can go deeper. Spend time in the Rwenzori Mountains, explore less-visited parks like Kidepo or Semuliki, and take the slow route between destinations. You’ll have time to connect with local guides, stop in smaller towns, and take detours when something unexpected pops up.

What’s the best way to plan an Uganda itinerary?

Planning a trip to Uganda is less about ticking off sights and more about building in time for travel, wildlife, and the odd surprise. The best Uganda itinerary is well-paced, include some breathing room, and doesn’t try to do it all. Roads can be rough, and distances take longer than they look. The payoff? Big landscapes, fewer crowds, and real adventure.

Start with how long you have

Uganda is compact but not quick. Travel days can eat into your time, especially in remote regions.

• Under a week: Pick one focus. If you want gorillas, head straight to Bwindi. If you want big wildlife, base yourself in Murchison Falls or Queen Elizabeth. Add a night in Entebbe or Kampala at the start or end.
• 7 to 10 days: Now you can link gorillas with a second destination. A classic combo is Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth, or Murchison Falls with chimp trekking in Kibale. Build in a stop at Lake Bunyonyi or Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to break up long drives.
• 2 weeks: Enough time for a full loop. Start in Entebbe, head north to Murchison, then down through Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, and back via Lake Mburo. You’ll cover gorillas, chimps, game drives, and boat safaris without burning out.
• 3 to 4 weeks: Now you can explore slower and deeper. Add the Rwenzori Mountains for trekking, Jinja for adventure sports, or Kidepo Valley in the remote northeast. This is where Uganda really opens up, far from the main circuits.

Match your route to your travel style

Uganda isn’t one-size-fits-all. Choose what matters most, wildlife, nature, culture, or downtime, and plan around that.

Into wildlife and safaris?

• Murchison Falls: Big game and boat safaris on the Nile.
• Queen Elizabeth: Tree-climbing lions and crater lakes.
• Bwindi and Mgahinga: Gorilla trekking with serious wow factor.
• Kibale Forest: The best place to track wild chimpanzees.

Looking for hiking, lakes, and mountains?

• Rwenzori Mountains: Multi-day treks through ice and jungle.
• Mount Elgon and Sipi Falls: Scenic hikes, waterfalls, and coffee farms.
• Lake Bunyonyi: Canoes, island walks, and post-trek recovery.

Want to experience local life and culture?

• Jinja: Chill vibes, adventure sports, and craft markets.
• Kampala: Busy, bold, and full of live music and street food.
• Batwa or Karamojong community visits: Go with a responsible guide.

Need to slow down?

• Lake Mburo: A low-key park with zebras and walking safaris.
• Ssese Islands: Beaches and bike rides in the middle of Lake Victoria.
• Entebbe: Botanical gardens, lakeside restaurants, and a soft landing.

Getting around Uganda: plan for it

Transport in Uganda takes effort. Most visitors hire a car with a driver, which gives you flexibility and local insight. Self-driving is possible, but roads can be rough, and signage is limited.

• Plan for long drive times: six hours often means eight.
• Avoid driving at night. Roads are unlit and unpredictable.
• Domestic flights exist but are expensive and infrequent.
• Buses and shared taxis are best left to locals unless you’re on a shoestring.

The best Uganda trips build in time to explore, time to recover, and time to go off plan. That’s where the real stories come from.

How to slow travel in Uganda

Uganda isn’t a place to rush through. Roads are long, detours are common, and the best memories come when you give each stop the time it deserves. Slow travel here means fewer destinations, longer stays, and a willingness to follow the local rhythm, not your itinerary.

In Bwindi, don’t just trek gorillas and move on. Stay a while in Buhoma or Rushaga. Walk with a local guide through the forest, visit a village coffee farm, or simply sit and listen to the jungle wake up. Most Uganda travel experts will tell you: this is where things shift from sightseeing to real experience.

Lake Bunyonyi is a natural reset. You can paddle to islands, hike the surrounding hills, or do absolutely nothing beside the water. It’s a favorite among those who know the value of slowing down.

In Jinja, balance adrenaline with quiet moments. After rafting or biking, linger by the Nile, explore craft markets, or take a slow boat at sunset.

One of the most useful Uganda travel tips? Don’t overplan. In Murchison Falls, Kidepo, or the Rwenzoris, it’s the unexpected moments: wildlife at camp, a chat with your guide, a quiet trail, that stay with you longest.

How to handle money and payments in Uganda

Uganda is mostly a cash economy, but cards are useful in bigger towns and tourist lodges. You won’t need to carry wads of bills, but don’t expect to tap and go at every café or craft stall either. Knowing how and where to pay makes things smoother.

The currency is the Ugandan shilling (UGX). You can’t use foreign currency for everyday purchases, so exchange or withdraw local cash when you arrive.

ATMs and card use

ATMs are common in cities and larger towns. Stick to machines at established banks like Stanbic, Centenary, or Absa. They’re more reliable and safer to use. ATMs in rural areas are rare and may run out of cash.

Visa is the most widely accepted card. Mastercard works in some places but not all. Most lodges, supermarkets, and restaurants in urban areas take cards, but smaller guesthouses, roadside stalls, and local taxis prefer cash.

Mobile money (like MTN Mobile Money or Airtel Money) is popular with locals, but not always set up for visitors.

Smart payment tips

• Carry small notes for tips, markets, and transport.
• Withdraw cash in cities before heading into rural areas.
• Tip in cash: around 10 percent at restaurants, and more for guides or drivers.
• Don’t flash large amounts of money. Keep some in your wallet and the rest stashed safely.

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Uganda

Uganda is rich in wildlife, culture, and landscapes that few visitors forget. But responsible travel matters here. Tourism supports livelihoods, conservation, and small businesses, when done right. These Uganda travel tips will help you make a real contribution without losing the adventure.

• Respect local communities: Uganda is home to many ethnic groups, each with its own customs, languages, and traditions. Always ask before taking photos of people, especially in rural villages or markets. Dress modestly in community spaces and don’t give handouts to children. If you want to help, support local schools, health centers, or NGOs that work directly with the community.
• Support community tourism: Book village walks or cultural tours run by local guides. Stay in community-owned lodges and buy crafts directly from artisans, not airport curio shops.
• Be respectful around wildlife: Gorilla trekking and safaris are incredible, but they come with rules. Don’t get too close, don’t feed animals, and always follow your guide’s instructions. Keeping your distance protects the animals and future visitors.
• Tread lightly: Stick to marked trails, don’t litter, and don’t collect plants or rocks. Plastic waste is a real problem, so carry a reusable bottle and bag where possible. In parks and forests, leave no trace.
• Conserve water and power: Many rural lodges rely on limited resources. Keep showers short, switch off lights, and don’t expect 24-hour electricity in remote areas.
• Tip fairly: Tipping is appreciated and often essential. Guides and drivers usually receive $5-10 per day, while porters, cooks, and lodge staff also benefit from shared tips. In restaurants, 5-10 percent is the norm if it’s not already included.
• Learn and listen: Ugandans are open and welcoming. A few words in Luganda or Swahili go a long way. Ask questions, take time to listen, and approach local culture with curiosity and respect. Responsible travel starts with how you show up.

Don’t underestimate travel time

Uganda may look compact, but getting around takes time. Roads are often slow, with potholes, speed bumps, and unexpected delays. A drive that looks short on the map can stretch into a full day. Weather affects travel too, especially during the rainy season when some routes become difficult or impassable. Always check with your accommodation before setting off. They can give up-to-date advice on road conditions and travel times. If you're self-driving, allow extra time for each journey and avoid driving after dark.

Street lighting is limited, and it’s common to encounter unlit vehicles or animals on the road. Hiring a local driver makes the trip smoother and safer. They know which roads to avoid, where to stop for fuel, and how to navigate detours. Keep your itinerary flexible and focus on fewer places. Uganda rewards patience, and rushing through it only means missing what makes it so memorable.

Carry cash, but not too much

Cash is essential in Uganda, especially outside major towns. While hotels and supermarkets in cities may accept cards, most local transport, food stalls, markets, and smaller guesthouses do not. ATMs are available in larger towns, but they sometimes run out of money or go offline. It’s best to withdraw what you need before heading into national parks or rural areas. Ask for smaller bills since large notes can be difficult to break. Keep your cash in separate places, such as a wallet and a zipped pocket in your bag.

Avoid carrying large amounts when walking around busy areas like taxi parks or markets. Mobile money is widely used by locals but usually requires a Ugandan SIM and ID, so it is not a practical option for most visitors. Plan for remote stops, pay with cash when needed, and don’t expect card machines to work everywhere you go.

Take your time at local markets

Ugandan markets are full of energy, color, and everyday life. They are more than just places to shop. No matter if you are visiting Nakasero Market in Kampala or a smaller one in towns like Gulu or Mbale, take your time. Walk through slowly, ask questions, and engage with the vendors. You will find everything from tropical fruit and spices to secondhand clothes, baskets, and grilled snacks.

Bargaining is part of the culture, but it should be done with respect and a smile. Start low, but avoid haggling over a few cents. Bring small notes to make transactions easier. Markets can be busy, so keep your belongings close and avoid showing valuables. Always ask before taking someone’s photo. Many people are open to it, but it is polite to check first. Markets are where you see real life happening. Slow down, be curious, and you will leave with more than just souvenirs.