Taxi & Transport Scams in Kampala, Uganda
Overcharging, meter tampering, fake taxis, and transport cons targeting tourists. Below are the taxi & transport scams reported in Kampala — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Nairobi, Johannesburg, and Mombasa.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
3
Taxi & Transport Scams
10
Total in Kampala
How it works
After dark, unlicensed private cars operating as informal taxis pick up passengers near bars and restaurants in Kabalagala and around Garden City Mall. A second man — sometimes posing as another passenger already in the vehicle — will assist in robbing the victim during the ride. Phones, cash, and bags are taken, and victims are dropped at an unfamiliar location.
How it works
Boda boda motorcycle taxi riders in Kampala quote foreigners rates 5–10 times the local price. When corrected or negotiated with, some become hostile or drive to an unexpected location demanding full payment.
How it works
Matatu shared minibus touts quote foreigners inflated fares for routes that locals pay a standard fixed rate on. Some routes have touts who collect an unofficial tourist supplement before passengers board.
See all scams in Kampala
10 total warnings across all categories