Can I use credit cards in Uganda?

Cards work in major cities like Kampala and Entebbe, but rural areas and national parks are cash-only. Bring small denomination USD bills as backup.

Is it worth getting the gorilla permit?

If you can afford the $700, yes. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Book 3-6 months ahead through Uganda Wildlife Authority. Chimpanzee tracking ($200) is a good alternative.

How much should I tip guides?

Tip gorilla guides $10-20 per person, safari guides $10-15 per day, and general guides $5-10. Tips are expected and appreciated.

Can I bargain for accommodation?

Yes, especially for longer stays or during low season. You can often get 10-20% off published rates at guesthouses and budget hotels.

How to Budget for Backpacking Uganda

Expect to spend $25-40 per day backpacking Uganda, with accommodation ($8-15), meals ($5-8), transport ($5-12), and activities ($5-10) making up most costs. Budget an extra $200-300 for gorilla or chimpanzee permits if planning primate tracking.

Calculate your accommodation budget. Budget $8-15 per night. Dorm beds in hostels run $8-12 in Kampala and Jinja, $10-15 near national parks. Basic guesthouses cost $12-20 for private rooms. Book gorilla trek accommodation 2-3 months ahead as options fill up.
Plan for food costs. Set aside $5-8 daily for meals. Local restaurants serve meals for $2-4. Street food costs $1-2. Cooking your own food saves money - groceries run $3-5 daily. Beer costs $1-2, bottled water $0.50.
Budget transport between destinations. Allocate $5-12 per travel day. Matatu (shared taxi) rides cost $3-8 for 2-4 hour journeys. Boda boda (motorcycle taxi) short trips run $1-3. Budget $15-25 for longer bus rides to remote parks.
Factor in activity costs. Daily activities cost $5-10 unless doing primate tracking. Gorilla permits cost $700, chimpanzee permits $200. National park entries run $40-50. Boat trips on Lake Victoria cost $10-20. Hiking and village walks are often free or $5-10.
Add buffer for unexpected costs. Include 20% extra for visa fees ($50), SIM cards ($10), tips, and price fluctuations. ATM fees run $3-5 per withdrawal. Some remote areas only take cash, so plan accordingly.

Can I use credit cards in Uganda?: Cards work in major cities like Kampala and Entebbe, but rural areas and national parks are cash-only. Bring small denomination USD bills as backup.
Is it worth getting the gorilla permit?: If you can afford the $700, yes. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Book 3-6 months ahead through Uganda Wildlife Authority. Chimpanzee tracking ($200) is a good alternative.
How much should I tip guides?: Tip gorilla guides $10-20 per person, safari guides $10-15 per day, and general guides $5-10. Tips are expected and appreciated.
Can I bargain for accommodation?: Yes, especially for longer stays or during low season. You can often get 10-20% off published rates at guesthouses and budget hotels.