Travel Around Uganda On Budget

Traveling around Uganda on a budget is definitely possible with some careful planning and research. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your Uganda safari while keeping costs as low as possible without necessarily compromising your safari experience.

Choose budget-friendly accommodation

Consider staying in hostels or budget hotels rather than luxury accommodations. You might have been inspired to visit a destination because of the outstanding lodges but sometimes you might not be able to afford the experience. Therefore look for accommodation within your budget. If needs be, consider rooftop tent camping.

There are many options in Uganda that offer basic amenities at affordable rates more so outside the park. You can spend a night outside the park if you are not considering a night game drive or an early morning game drive

Use public transportation

Taking public transportation such as buses or minibusses is much cheaper than renting a car or taking taxis. The bus system in Uganda is quite extensive and reliable. You can easily connect to all major towns in Uganda using buses.

Eat Local

Sampling local cuisine is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the culture, and it can also save you a lot of money. Street food is typically the most affordable option, but be sure to choose vendors that are popular with locals. These might be a little bit more expensive than the ordinary street vendors but their prices remain relatively low

Besides street food. It is highly recommended to buy food in town restaurants instead of eating food at lodges or hotels. Town restaurant food tends to be cheaper than food offered by lodges.

Negotiate prices

In Uganda, haggling over prices is commonplace, especially at markets and with taxi drivers. Don’t be afraid to negotiate to get a better deal. It is very common that the seller will state a price that is either double or a third more than the normal price.

Always bargain until you find the final average price to get a better deal.

Plan ahead

Research activities and attractions ahead of time to avoid paying for pricey last-minute tours or excursions. There are many free or low-cost activities available, such as visiting national parks, hiking, and exploring markets.

Many of the waterfalls in the villages such as Bulambuli do not require you to pay. You simply have to visit. There are several free entries or less than $3 entry places you can visit but these are rarely fronted.

Travel during the low season

Peak tourist season in Uganda is typically from June to September and December to January. Traveling during the low season can save you a significant amount of money on flights, accommodations, and activities.

It is also easier to secure gorilla trekking permits and chimpanzee tracking permits during the low season.

Be mindful of your expenses

Keep track of your spending to avoid overspending and ensure you stay within your budget. It is very common to be tempted to overtip. Always tip within your budget.