Planning your budget for a trip to Uganda? For a safari destination, Uganda is among the affordable options. In this guide, we share average prices for hotels, food, and drinks so you know what to expect and how to plan your daily spending.
Heads-up: Uganda runs mostly on cash
You can pay national park entrance fees by credit card, but nearly everything else – meals, fuel, shopping – is paid in cash.
Cards & payments
Don’t count on using your foreign debit card. Most restaurants, lodges, and campsites don’t accept them. Credit cards (Visa & Mastercard) might work at more upmarket hotels and restaurants, but that’s about it.
ATMs & banks
You’ll find ATMs across Uganda, especially in bigger towns. The most reliable banks are Stanbic and Barclays, which accept Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro. There are daily withdrawal limits with foreign cards, so bring more than one – just in case.
Bring extra cash
We recommend carrying some Euros or US Dollars in cash for the unexpected. Important to know:
You can easily exchange money at Forex Bureaus in most towns.
Go local: Mobile Money is your friend
Uganda is big on Mobile Money. Register with MTN or Airtel and pay straight from your phone – whether it’s for drinks at a restaurant, market souvenirs, or park entrance fees. It’s fast, safe, and widely accepted.
Pro tip: Buy a local SIM card when you arrive – either at the airport or a shopping mall. Load it with some airtime and data, and you’re ready to go.
Fuel prices
Fuel prices in Uganda change often. The easiest way to check the current rate? Just Google it before you set off.
Food & tips
Eating out in Uganda is easy on the wallet. Outside the parks, a local meal costs just a few bucks. Inside the parks, a three-course dinner at a lodge costs around USD 15–25 per person. A 10% tip is considered generous and always appreciated. Most places share tips among all staff, so if the service made you smile, show it!
Accommodation prices
Compared to other safari hotspots like Tanzania, Kenya, or South Africa, Uganda offers great value for money. Lodges here are more affordable and often include a personal touch.
Here’s a rough price guide for a double room (bed & breakfast):
Budget: up to USD 100
Mid-range: up to USD 175
High-end: USD 175+ (usually full board)
Park fees & permits
Want to know what park entrances and permits cost? Head over to the National Parks guide section of this website.
Yes, you can explore Uganda in comfort, without spending a fortune. Check out our blog Tips for a Budget-Friendly Trip to Uganda and discover how to save while still having the trip of a lifetime.