Uganda
Money in Uganda: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use Ugandan shillings (UGX) for everyday purchases, keep a few US dollars for larger payments, and tip 5‑10 % or small notes; switch to cash if ATMs or card terminals are unavailable.
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GuideUganda
Key facts
- Currency
- Ugandan shilling (UGX)
- USD exchange rate 2026check
- ≈ UGX 3,600–3,800 per US$ (check)
- ATMs
- Available in Kampala, Entebbe and major towns; limited elsewhere
- Card acceptance
- Visa/Mastercard in hotels, lodges and larger shops; cash preferred outside major cities
- Tipping norm
- 5‑10 % of bill or small notes (UGX 1,000‑5,000) for guides, porters, drivers
Currency and cash
Uganda uses the Ugandan shilling (UGX) for all transactions. US dollars are accepted at many tourist outlets, but older or low‑denomination notes may be refused or exchanged at a lower rate. Bring enough UGX for daily expenses, especially outside Kampala and Entebbe.
- Carry small notes (UGX 1,000‑5,000) for tips and market purchases.
- Exchange money at banks, hotels or licensed bureaus; avoid street exchangers.
ATMs and cards
ATMs are common in Kampala, Entebbe and other major towns; they dispense UGX and accept Visa and Mastercard. Network coverage drops sharply in rural areas, so plan cash withdrawals before long drives.
- Notify your bank of travel to avoid blocks.
- Use cards mainly for hotel deposits, larger restaurant bills and tours.
- Keep a backup card; some ATMs accept only local bank cards.
Tipping guidelines
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In restaurants, 5‑10 % of the bill is typical. For guides, drivers and porters, give small cash notes (UGX 1,000‑5,000) per day or per service. On gorilla or chimp trekking, a tip of US$5‑10 per guide is appreciated.
- Leave tips in a sealed envelope or hand directly to the staff.
- Tip in UGX where possible; US dollars are accepted in most tourist settings.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Uganda?
Uganda uses the Ugandan shilling (UGX). US dollars are also accepted in many tourist venues, but shillings are required for most everyday purchases.
Should I use cash or a card in Uganda?
Use cash (UGX) for most transactions, especially outside Kampala and Entebbe. Cards work in larger hotels, lodges and city shops, but plan for cash where ATMs are scarce.
How much should I tip in Uganda?
Tip 5‑10 % of restaurant bills or give UGX 1,000‑5,000 per day to guides, drivers and porters; a US$5‑10 tip for wildlife guides is common.
Can I use US dollars everywhere in Uganda?
No. US dollars are accepted at many hotels, lodges and tour operators, but small shops, markets and rural areas expect UGX. Pre‑2013 or small‑denomination notes may be refused.
Are ATMs reliable in Uganda?
ATMs in Kampala, Entebbe and major towns work with Visa and Mastercard. Outside those areas, ATMs are scarce and may be out of cash, so withdraw enough before travelling.
Check live
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Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- officialUganda Tourism Board
Ask about Uganda
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