Have you already planned your trip and haven’t stopped to think about what to buy in Uganda as a souvenir? This African country, known for its wild landscapes, rich culture and hospitable people, is also a perfect destination for lovers of souvenirs with history. From colourful markets to craft workshops hidden among bustling streets, Uganda offers a wide variety of unique products that capture the essence of the country.
In this article, we will guide you through the best options for taking a little piece of Uganda home with you. Traditional crafts, handmade products, culinary delights and much more. We’ll tell you where to find them and, most importantly, how to ensure that your purchase has a positive impact on local communities. These souvenirs from Uganda will keep your trip alive long after you return.
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Traditional Ugandan crafts: souvenirs with local soul
Ugandan craftsmanship reflects the identity and creativity of its people. Each handmade piece is unique and represents centuries of traditions that are still alive throughout the country.
Handmade basketry and rugs
Baskets and rugs, made from natural fibres such as raffia or dried banana leaves, combine functionality and design. Baskets are used daily in many Ugandan homes and are perfect for decorating or storage. The colourful and very durable rugs are woven on simple looms and reflect patterns typical of different ethnic groups.
Masks and wooden carvings: art with tribal roots
Each hand-carved figure represents spirits, ancestors or scenes from everyday life. All of them are imbued with clear cultural symbolism. The masks and carvings are made from local woods (ebony or jacaranda) and are usually decorated with natural pigments. Therefore, they are not just simple decorative objects, but also a story that connects with the spiritual roots of Ugandan communities.
Handicraft jewellery: beads, metals and symbolism
Handcrafted jewellery in Uganda is made from recycled beads, rolled paper, local metals and natural seeds. Each design has a story and reflects the identity of the wearer. Necklaces, bracelets and earrings can be worn as symbols of status or protection.
Kitenge and barkcloth fabrics: identity on the surface
Colourful and patterned, kitenge is a fabric used to make traditional and modern clothing. Barkcloth, on the other hand, is a very ancient fabric made from the bark of the mutuba tree, recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. Both fabrics are not only beautiful, but also living symbols of Ugandan history, spirituality and cultural expression.
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What to bring back from Uganda? Souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else
If you still don’t know what to buy in Uganda, this country offers unique souvenirs that you won’t find anywhere else, authentic treasures that go beyond the typical souvenir.
Traditional musical instruments
Musical instruments reflect Uganda’s rich culture. Among the most notable are the adungu (African harp), the engalabi (cylindrical drum) and the akadinda (traditional xylophone). Handcrafted from local materials, these instruments not only make music, but also tell stories. They are ideal as decorations or for collectors of world music.
Batik art and contemporary African painting
Batik is a wax-dyeing technique that produces colourful scenes depicting everyday life, nature or tribal symbols in Uganda. You can also buy modern paintings with a mix of traditional styles and urban influences. These souvenirs from Uganda are ideal as gifts or to decorate your home.
Products with cultural or spiritual meaning
Amulets, protective figures, necklaces with tribal symbols or elements used in traditional rituals showcase Ugandan beliefs and community values. These objects are made by local artisans and connect with African spirituality and the identity of each ethnic group. They are unique pieces that convey wisdom, respect for traditions and a different way of understanding the world.
Where to buy authentic souvenirs in Kampala and other cities?
Knowing what to buy in Uganda and where is important for getting authentic souvenirs from the country. We’ll tell you the best places in Kampala and other cities.
Essential craft markets in Kampala
Kampala has several markets where you can buy the best handicrafts in the country:
- Buganda Road Craft Market. Also known as Exposure Africa, it has more than 30 stalls selling woven baskets, wood carvings and other local products.
- Uganda Crafts 2000 Ltd. A non-profit shop offering fair trade items made by vulnerable communities.
- Friday Craft Market. Located in the Nsambya area, this market allows you to interact more directly with sellers and get more affordable prices.
- Craft Village. Next to the National Theatre, it offers a diverse selection of handicrafts in a very interesting cultural setting.
Recommended cities for handicraft shopping outside Kampala
Beyond Kampala, you can visit Jinja, on the banks of the Nile, a city known for its local art shops, jewellery and batik fabrics. You also have the option of Entebbe, very close to the airport, which has less crowded markets (Victoria Mall) and small galleries with unique pieces.
In the east of the country, we recommend visiting Fort Portal to discover its range of basketry and tribal-inspired carvings made by rural communities. As you can see, you can come to this country for more than just gorillas, which are easy to see if you follow our complete guide to gorilla watching in Uganda.
Handmade souvenirs from Uganda: support local communities with your purchase
Handmade souvenirs are the best choice if you’re wondering what to buy in Uganda. Many of these handcrafted items (jewellery, textiles, baskets, wood carvings, etc.) are made by women’s cooperatives, people with disabilities or rural communities who find craftsmanship a source of income and empowerment.
Buying these products guarantees you an authentic souvenir. But at the same time, it contributes to local development. Before travelling, or once you are there, you can find out about the workshops or charity shops in each city to make your purchase more responsible and positive.
Prices and bargaining: guide to shopping like a local in Uganda
Knowing prices and how to haggle will help you shop like a local in Uganda. Do you know how to do it? We’ll help you here.
Prices of the most popular souvenirs from Uganda
Souvenirs in Uganda are easily accessible. Hand-woven baskets and beaded jewellery, for example, usually cost between £5 and £15. Small wood carvings (animal figures, masks, etc.) range from £10 to £25, depending on the detail and size.
Kitenge fabrics, ideal for making clothes or decorations, sell for around £8 to £20 per piece. Traditional musical instruments can range from £15 to £40. The final price in local markets often varies depending on how well you haggle.
When and how to bargain respectfully?
Haggling is common practice in Uganda in markets and street stalls. However, it should always be done with the utmost respect. In fact, you should avoid haggling in shops with fixed prices or charity projects. The ideal time to negotiate is when you show interest, but before you commit to buying.
You can start by offering half the initial price and gradually increase your offer. Don’t forget to be friendly, smile and avoid arguing. Bargaining is part of the game, but it is also a form of cultural connection that goes far beyond the purchasing process.
Local currency and common forms of payment
The official currency of Uganda is the Ugandan shilling (UGX). In most markets, souvenir shops and street stalls, payment is in cash. Therefore, always carry small bills with you. Although credit cards are accepted in hotels and larger shops, they are not commonly used in traditional places.
It is also possible to exchange euros or dollars at reputable exchange offices or banks. However, always have some local cash available for shopping and daily haggling.
Common mistakes to avoid when shopping
When buying souvenirs in Uganda, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect your experience:
- Buying without haggling at local markets.
- Accepting the first price without comparing prices at other stalls.
- Not carrying enough cash.
- Buying products from shops that sell industrialised goods as if they were handmade.
- Not finding out about customs restrictions when taking products with you.
- Not asking about the origin of the item or who made it.
Food products to take from Uganda (and pass through customs!)
In addition to handicrafts, gastronomy is another ideal option if you want to know what to buy in Uganda.
Ugandan coffee
Ugandan coffee is grown in regions such as Bugisu and the Rwenzori Mountains and is known for its intense flavour and fruity aroma. You can buy it in beans or ground, and it usually comes in sealed packaging so you can get it through customs without any problems. Take home one of the most traditional flavours of this country.
Black tea and local spices
Black tea is grown mainly in Fort Portal. It is sold in loose leaves or in bags, making it very easy to carry in your luggage. Uganda also offers local spices such as vanilla, dried ginger and cinnamon. All of these are suitable for export as long as they are properly packaged and labelled.
Dried fruits and exotic products
Ugandan dried fruits (mango, pineapple, and banana) are sold in sealed packages so you can get through customs. You can also find exotic products from typical Ugandan cuisine such as roasted sesame seeds, spiced peanuts and local honey in jars. Remember that these products must be well sealed to get through customs without any problems.
What products are prohibited or restricted by customs?
One of the first things you should plan when deciding what to buy in Uganda is to find out which products are prohibited or restricted when returning to the UK.
According to EU regulations, it is prohibited to bring meat and dairy products in your personal luggage. However, small quantities of other products (honey, eggs and egg products) are allowed up to a maximum of 2 kg per person, provided they are for personal consumption and do not require refrigeration before consumption.
Please also note that products of plant origin (flowers, plants or fresh fruit) are subject to restrictions and may require a phytosanitary certificate certifying that the product is free from certain pests. Any products of animal origin, such as hunting trophies or items made from protected species, are prohibited.
What not to buy in Uganda: souvenirs that look authentic… but aren’t
In Uganda, you should avoid mass-produced souvenirs that imitate local crafts. These include painted plastic masks and jewellery made from synthetic materials. There are also products imported from other African countries that are sold as Ugandan, but do not reflect the country’s culture.
On the other hand, be wary of prices that are too low or items that you see are identical to others on other stalls. Always go for handmade items and ask about their origin.
Frequently asked questions about what to buy in Uganda
What souvenirs are typical of Uganda?
Woven baskets, wooden masks, kitenge fabrics, coffee, tea, handmade jewellery and carved figures are some of the most representative souvenirs of Ugandan culture.
Can you pay by card in Ugandan markets?
Most traditional markets accept cash only. Only some large or tourist shops accept cards, so it is best to always carry Ugandan shillings.
Is it mandatory to haggle when buying souvenirs in Uganda?
It is not mandatory, but it is very common. Bargaining is part of the local culture, especially in open-air markets. It is always done in a friendly and respectful manner.
What products cannot be taken home from Uganda?
Meat, dairy products and plants without a phytosanitary certificate are prohibited. Products made from protected species without the appropriate permits are also prohibited.
Where to buy authentic souvenirs in Kampala?
In places such as Buganda Road Craft Market, Uganda Crafts 2000 Ltd or the Craft Village, you will find items handmade by local communities.
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