Travelling to Uganda?

Get the best rates for Ugandan currency online

Prepare for your excursion to Uganda and Order your Ugandan shillings at Manor FX today. 

Our great exchange rates mean you’ll have more UGX cash to spend. Have your Ugandan shilling banknotes delivered securely to your home or office, or pick them up from the Manor FX bureau near Heathrow.

Manor FX offers fast delivery times and a fuss-free online ordering process for your Ugandan shilling travel money.

Ugandan travel money:

Are you preparing for your adventure through the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to nearly half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas? Then here are some useful insights about using cash and cards for payments in Uganda.

Where can you get Ugandan shillings?

Buying Ugandan shillings (UGX) in the UK might be a bit more challenging as not all foreign exchange offices or banks in the UK offer this exotic currency.

If you’re looking to get your hands on some Ugandan shillings, we offer great rates at our bureau de change in Datchet. Benefit from free home delivery on orders over £750 or pick up your Ugandan shillings in-store. 

Can you buy Ugandan shillings in the UK?

Yes! you can buy Ugandan shillings in the UK, but just keep in mind that the Ugandan shilling is a minor currency. It’s a good idea to plan ahead and check with different exchange services to find the best rates and availability.

Save yourself a trip to a bureau de change and purchase your travel money today. Make the most of our fast and secure home delivery and get your Ugandan shillings delivered with Royal Mail Special Delivery.

Should I exchange money before I travel to Uganda?

Yes! Having local currency on hand is a good idea when traveling to Uganda. While you can exchange money upon arrival, it might be convenient to exchange some cash before you go. This way, you’ll have Ugandan shillings for immediate expenses like transportation and small purchases.

What is the best currency to take to Uganda?

Bringing a mix of local and foreign currencies is a good idea when heading to Uganda.

Although the official currency of Uganda is the Ugandan shilling, the US dollar (USD) is the most widely accepted. 

Using US dollars to pay for a safari in Uganda is common and often convenient. Many safari operators, lodges, and tourist-related services in Uganda accept US dollars as payment. 

It’s a good idea to check with the specific safari company you plan to use and confirm their accepted payment methods.

Friendly reminder: Remember to bring newer, clean, and crisp US dollar bills, as some places in Uganda may not accept damaged or old bills.

Euros and British Pounds might be accepted at larger hotels, tourist areas, and certain businesses catering to international visitors. However, it is more common to accept US dollars.

Having Ugandan shillings for local expenses and US dollars for larger transactions and tours is a good idea to ensure a stress-free trip.

It’s best to check with the places you plan to visit and see which currencies they accept.

Can I use my bank card in Uganda?

Yes. You can use your bank card in Uganda. Most places in urban areas accept major credit and debit cards like Visa and Mastercard. 

However, Uganda is still very much a cash-based economy. It’s better and safer to pay either in US dollars or Ugandan shillings when visiting rural areas or taking a safari trip.

Helpful tip: Before your jet off to Uganda, or any East African country, it’s a good idea to contact your bank about your travel plans. Also, remember to check any fees that might apply for international card use.

Do you need cash in Uganda?

While places in Uganda accept card, cash payment is preferable in UGX or USD. You can use Euros or Pounds sterling banknotes in the tourist areas in Kampala and near Lake Victoria, but at a worse exchange rate than US dollars.

Having Ugandan shillings on hand can be helpful when visiting smaller towns, local markets, or remote areas of the country.

Helpful reminder: Bring clean 50 USD and 100 USD notes from the newest series. It’s also great to bring small denominations of Ugandan shillings, as it can be challenging to get change for larger bills in some places.

Remember to convert your leftover US dollars and Ugandan shillings to GBP once you return from your travels.

Is it better to use cash or a credit card in Uganda?

When it comes to using cash or credit cards in Uganda, having a mix of both can be handy. Credit cards are useful in bigger cities and tourist areas, making them convenient for larger expenses like accommodations and meals.

However, having some Ugandan shillings is perfect for small purchases, local markets, tips, and places that might not accept cards. Cash could be a lifesaver, especially if you’re venturing into more rural or remote areas.

So, the key is balance! Use your credit card for convenience, but keep some cash for those charming, off-the-beaten-path moments.

How much money do you need per day in Uganda?

On average, budget travelers might aim for around 120,000-190,000 UGX, around £25 to £40, per day for basic expenses like food, transportation, and accommodation.

A mid-range traveller’s budget is around 405,000 UGX, equivalent to £85 daily. This is enough to cover your day-to-day needs, including a budget of 110,000 UGX, around £23, for daily meals, and 76,000 UGX, around £16, for local transportation.

Remember, these are just rough estimates, and your expenses can differ based on your personal choices. It’s always a great idea to have a little extra for unexpected surprises and experiences. 

How can I avoid ATM fees in Uganda?

Here are a couple of useful tips to avoid ATM fees in Uganda.

Choose the Right ATM: Look for ATMs linked with major banks to minimise fees. These might offer better exchange rates.

Withdraw Larger Amounts: Take out larger amounts at once. This way, you’ll reduce the number of transactions and fees.

Check with Your Bank: Some banks have partnerships with Ugandan banks that allow you to use certain ATMs without fees. Check if your bank offers this option.

Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank about your travel plans to Uganda. This can prevent any additional fees.

Use Cashback Options: Some stores or businesses might offer cashback when you make purchases with your card, allowing you to avoid ATM fees.

Research Fees: Before traveling, research the specific fees your bank might charge for international withdrawals. This way, you’ll know what to expect.

Is life expensive in Uganda?

Life in Uganda is generally more affordable compared to many Western countries. Everyday essentials like food, transportation, and accommodations can be quite budget-friendly, making Uganda an attractive destination for travelers and expats.

Prices in Uganda are much cheaper than prices in the UK. Uganda’s overall cost of living is an astonishing 55% lower than in the UK. 

You can expect to pay around £1.20, equivalent to around 5720 UGX, for a coffee in a cafe in Entebbe. 

You’ll often find that your money goes a bit further in Uganda. So, if you plan a visit, you’ll enjoy a cost-effective and memorable experience.

How much does a meal in Uganda cost?

In Uganda, the cost of a meal can vary depending on where you eat. If you’re dining at a street food stall, you can expect to pay around 7,000 UGX, equivalent to £1.50, for a tasty and satisfying meal.

A 3-course meal for two people in a mid-range restaurant will cost around 100,000 UGX, equivalent to £21, offering a wider range of food.

Of course, these are just approximate figures, and the cost can vary based on your preferences and location. But rest assured, you’ll find a range of delicious options that won’t break the bank!

How does tipping work in Uganda?

There isn’t a tipping culture in Uganda. While not always mandatory, it’s certainly a nice gesture. Here’s a simple guide to tipping when in Uganda:

Restaurants: Leaving a tip of around 5-10% of the bill is a kind way to acknowledge the service. Some places might include a service charge, so double-check your bill.

Guides and Drivers: If you’re on a tour or safari, it’s common to tip guides and drivers. Depending on the length and quality of the service, consider tipping around $5 to $10 USD per person per day.

Hotels: Leaving a small amount for housekeeping or bellhops (around $1 to $2 USD) is a great way to show gratitude.

Taxis: Tipping taxi drivers isn’t a strict rule, but giving a small amount is a nice gesture.

Porters: At airports or hotels, if someone helps with your luggage, a tip of about $1 to $2 USD is thoughtful.

Is it rude not to tip in Uganda?

While tipping is appreciated in Uganda, it’s not rude if you don’t decide to tip. People understand that tipping customs can vary from place to place. 

If you’ve received excellent service and want to show gratitude, leaving a tip is a nice gesture.

Is Uganda a cheap country to visit?

Absolutely! Uganda is a budget-friendly travel destination. Compared to many Western countries, Uganda’s cost of living and travel expenses can be quite affordable. 

Accommodations, meals, transportation, and activities often come at reasonable prices, allowing you to stretch your travel budget without compromising experiences.

Whether exploring stunning landscapes, encountering wildlife, or diving into the vibrant culture, Uganda offers excellent value for your money.

Ugandan Currency:

Banknotes in Uganda

The banknotes in Uganda are the 2010 series issued by the Bank of Uganda. Older banknotes are no longer in circulation. 

The Ugandan Shilling banknotes in circulation are 1,000 shillings, 2,000 shillings, 5,000 shillings, 10,000 shillings, 20,000 shillings, and 50,000 shillings UGX.

The banknotes are thoughtfully designed, showcasing the National Independence Monument in Kampala and the country’s natural surroundings.

Coins in Uganda

Ugandan coins range from 1 shilling to 1000 shillings. The bi-metallic 1000 shillings coin is in use alongside the 1000 shillings banknote.

Uganda’s currency import and export regulations

You can bring Ugandan shillings and foreign currency into the country without specific limits. However, if you’re carrying an amount equivalent to $10,000 USD or more, you’ll need to declare it upon arrival.

It’s always a good idea to double-check these regulations closer to your travel date to have a stress-free experience when it comes to your currency.

Ordering Ugandan shillings online

Convert your pounds to Ugandan shillings online and have them delivered fast and securely to your home or office with Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed®. Or pick them up from our travel money shop near Heathrow. Click here to buy Ugandan shillings online.

Selling back Ugandan shillings

If you have Ugandan shillings to sell, follow this link to convert Ugandan shillings to pounds, click on ‘sell currency’ and select ‘UGX Ugandan shilling.’ We’ll pay great rates for your leftover Ugandan shillings.

FAQs

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