Is it better to pay taxis in Uganda with cash, or do drivers accept cards or payment apps?
If you’re using taxis in Uganda, bring cash. Almost no one accepts cards, even in the capital. Apps like SafeBoda and Uber exist but aren’t super reliable with card payments if you’re using international banks. Drivers almost always want cash at drop-off. The only exception I’ve seen is a few corporate taxi services that work with hotels - and even those sometimes add a surcharge for card. Best bet: always carry cash in small notes.
I was in Jinja and Entebbe last month - no card acceptance in any taxi I tried. The drivers either didn’t know what I meant or said “no machine.” I used Bolt in Kampala once and it had an option to pay by card, but it didn’t process - the driver insisted on cash anyway. Bottom line: have enough local currency on hand and don’t expect to tap to pay. Even ride apps aren’t consistent with card use here.
Living in Uganda for the last 3 months, and I use SafeBoda for almost everything in Kampala. You can preload the app with mobile money or link a local card, but if you're a foreigner, just choose “cash payment” to keep it simple. Traditional taxis don’t accept any cards or apps. Even Bolt drivers prefer cash, though the app has a card option (mine kept failing). If you’re planning to get around Uganda, assume cash for most taxi situations.
It’s pretty much a cash-only game unless you’re using SafeBoda or Bolt. I tried hailing regular taxis in Kampala a few times and they always wanted cash in hand. Most of them don’t even have change for big bills. The SafeBoda app does let you pay by card, but only if your account is set up with local mobile money or a compatible card - my UK Revolut didn’t work. Bring small bills and avoid relying on card payments for taxis.