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Some scams

Eastern Africa

Tourist scams in Uganda

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.
  1. 1 Changing moneyCommonPoor exchange rates on activitiesSafaris 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.Businesses selling safaris and rafting activities priced in US dollarsRead
  2. 2 Buses and trainsOccasionalMinibus taxi fare overchargingA minibus taxi conductor sometimes asks tourists to pay more than the normal fare.KampalaRead
  3. 3 TheftOccasionalPickpockets following ATM usersPickpockets follow tourists from one bank's ATM to another when their cards are not accepted. They may then steal money or belongings.KampalaRead
  4. 4 TheftOccasionalTheft through car windows or unlocked doorsSomeone reaches through an open window to grab a phone. They may also open an unlocked door and take a laptop or other belongings.KampalaRead
  5. 5 NightlifeOccasionalDrink spiking followed by theftThere have been reports of drinks being spiked. Victims have then had cash, phones, credit cards and bank cheques stolen.KampalaRead
  6. 6 Changing moneyOccasionalReceiving invalid old banknotesBanknotes from the 1987 series are invalid and cannot be exchanged at banks. Accepting one leaves you with money you cannot use. Receiving an old note does not by itself prove deliberate fraud.When receiving cash or changeRead

Where to stay alert

  • Bank ATMs, KampalaPickpockets may follow tourists between banks when their cards fail.
  • Minibus taxi routes, KampalaConductors sometimes overcharge tourists.
  • Bars and nightlife venues, KampalaDrink spiking followed by theft has been reported.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Confirm minibus fares before boarding.
  • Agree on the full private taxi fare before departure. Special hire taxis have no meters.
  • Check that the driver understands your destination.
  • Keep windows up, doors locked and valuables out of sight during car journeys.

Money

  • Check cash and change before leaving the counter. Do not accept 1987-series banknotes.
  • Compare dollar and shilling totals when paying for activities.
  • Ask about payment fees. Credit card surcharges are often around 5%.
  • Carry some cash because not every business accepts cards, but avoid displaying a large amount.

Cards and ATMs

  • Use a staffed bank ATM where possible and shield your PIN.
  • Put cash and cards away before leaving the machine.
  • Watch for anyone following you between ATMs in Kampala.
  • Check withdrawal fees before confirming. Keep your card issuer's contact details available.

Your belongings

  • Keep bags closed and close to your body.
  • Avoid displaying expensive jewellery, cameras or large amounts of cash.
  • Keep phones and laptops away from car windows.
  • Avoid walking alone after dark. Arrange transport for the return journey.

Nights out

  • Keep your drink in sight at all times.
  • Get a fresh drink if yours has been unattended.
  • Stay with trusted companions and agree on how you will get home.
  • Seek help quickly if you suddenly feel unusually unwell or confused.

Tours and guides

  • Get the activity price, payment currency and any fees in writing.
  • Ask which exchange rate applies if you pay a dollar price in shillings.
  • Keep booking confirmations and payment receipts.

Questions

Are tourist scams common in Uganda?

The main concerns described here are fare overcharging, poor exchange rates and theft. There is no clear overall frequency figure. Take particular care around ATMs, in vehicles and at nightlife venues in Kampala.

How do I avoid being overcharged on a minibus taxi?

Ask the conductor for the fare before boarding. Check the usual price with your accommodation or another passenger, and carry small notes.

Do private taxis have meters?

Special hire taxis have no meters. Agree on the full fare before departure, especially for a long journey.

What should I watch for when using an ATM?

In Kampala, pickpockets may follow visitors between ATMs after a card fails. Put your money away before leaving and enter a staffed place if someone appears to be following you.

Should I pay for a safari or rafting in dollars or shillings?

Compare the final totals first. These activities are often priced in dollars, and paying in shillings may involve a poor exchange rate. Confirm the rate and any payment fee before paying.

Is a 5% card surcharge necessarily a scam?

No. Credit card surcharges are often around 5%. Ask about the fee before paying and check that the final bill matches what you agreed.

Can I use old Ugandan banknotes?

Do not accept banknotes from the 1987 series. They are invalid, and banks cannot exchange them. Check notes when receiving cash or change.

How can I protect my phone in a car?

Keep windows up and doors locked in Kampala, during the day and at night. Keep your phone away from windows and put laptops and bags out of sight.

How can I reduce the risk of drink spiking?

Keep your drink in sight and replace it if it has been unattended. Stay with trusted companions. If you suddenly feel unusually unwell, seek help and do not leave alone.

Who should I call after a theft or scam?

Report the incident to local police. For emergencies, call 112 or 999, though a response is not guaranteed. Freeze stolen cards through your issuer, and contact your insurer. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing.

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