Uganda

• The Currency of Uganda is the Shilling (UGX). There are approximately 3500 UGS to $1. If you are bringing cash, US dollars should be ‘big head’ dollars dated 2000 or later. Larger denominations give you a better exchange rate.
• For safety reasons, it is not recommended that you carry a lot of cash. It is recommended that you obtain currency through ATM machines (there is a wide network that accepts Visa, not Mastercard). Credit cards can also be used in many places.
• Only a few banks accept ATM cards or Visa credit cards for money withdrawal in Uganda. While you can withdraw a limited amount of cash per day from ATM machines in Kampala, there are very few opportunities to withdraw cash once you are on safari in Uganda.
• Payment by credit card in Uganda can attract additional charges of between 5–10%, occasionally more. Do check with lodges and restaurants in advance, if you plan to pay by credit card.
• We, therefore, advise you to bring cash and have money changed upon arrival in Kampala. US dollars, British pounds and Euros are easy to change. However, for some expenses, like the payment of a tourist visa at the airport/border, it is easier to have dollars available. It is often possible to pay for tourist activities with US dollars.
• Please note: US dollars bills issued before 1999 are NOT accepted in Uganda. Exchanging low denomination dollar bills (anything less than a USD100 bill) attracts a lower exchange rate.