Scam in UgandaChanging money
Poor exchange rates on activities in Uganda
How it works
Safaris and rafting activities are often priced in US dollars. If you pay in Ugandan shillings, the business may use a poor exchange rate. You then pay more for the same activity.
Warning signs
- The price is in dollars, but the payment request is in shillings.
- The business does not clearly explain its exchange rate.
- The shilling total is higher than you expected.
How to avoid it
- Ask for the full price in both currencies before booking.
- Check the exchange rate used to calculate the shilling price.
- Ask about card fees before choosing how to pay.
- Agree on the currency and final total in writing.
If it happens to you
Ask for the exchange rate and a breakdown of the bill. Compare these with your agreed price and request a correction.
- Get to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase a thief or confront anyone who threatens you.
- Seek urgent medical help if you are injured or suspect drink spiking. Ask a trusted person to stay with you.
- Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about suspicious payments. Lock stolen devices remotely and secure important accounts.
- Save receipts, booking messages and payment records. Write down the time, location and what happened.
- Report theft, fraud or threats to police. Ask for a report reference or written record for insurance.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate about replacement documents.
Questions
What is the poor exchange rates on activities scam in Uganda?
Safaris and rafting activities are often priced in US dollars. If you pay in Ugandan shillings, the business may use a poor exchange rate. You then pay more for the same activity.
How can I spot it early?
The price is in dollars, but the payment request is in shillings. The business does not clearly explain its exchange rate. The shilling total is higher than you expected.
How do I avoid poor exchange rates on activities in Uganda?
Ask for the full price in both currencies before booking. Check the exchange rate used to calculate the shilling price. Ask about card fees before choosing how to pay. Agree on the currency and final total in writing.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask for the exchange rate and a breakdown of the bill. Compare these with your agreed price and request a correction.
Where in Uganda does this happen?
Businesses selling safaris and rafting activities priced in US dollars
How common is this scam in Uganda?
Common. Travellers should watch for tourist fare overcharging, poor exchange rates and theft, especially in Kampala. Drink spiking is also reported at nightlife venues. These risks deserve care, but there is no clear measure of how often visitors encounter them.
Are there similar scams in Uganda?
Yes: receiving invalid old banknotes.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, fraud or threats at a local police station. For an emergency, call 112 or 999. Responses to emergency calls may be unreliable, so seek help from a nearby staffed place too. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact number to freeze a missing card, report unauthorised payments and ask about disputes. Business or activity provider: for a disputed fare, exchange rate or bill, show the agreed price and request a correction or refund. Keep the response and receipts. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Ask which receipts, police records or medical documents it needs. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help.
What number do I call in an emergency in Uganda?
Police and fire: 112, Police and fire: 999, Ambulance: 911.
Reviewed by @snuck