According to Freedom House’s research, people who use the internet in Uganda do not enjoy complete freedom to express themselves online. The government has imposed a ban on the use of social media sites and instant messaging services. The best VPN for Uganda seems like the only tool for citizens who want complete, unhindered, and undetected access to the web. I used ExpressVPN as it allows me to bypass content restrictions.
A VPN functions by directing your internet traffic through a secure, encrypted tunnel to a server in your preferred location. This clever tactic tricks websites and services into assuming you’re browsing from a different place. Here are the top 5 best VPNs for Uganda in 2024 that I have shortlisted after testing 150+ VPNs:
Quick Overview – The Best VPN For Uganda
Here’s a brief overview of the top 5 VPNs to choose the best VPN for Uganda:
Jump straight to learn why Uganda VPN is required
Best VPN For Uganda – Comparision Table
Here’s a table comparing the essential details of the best VPN for Uganda along with its alternatives:
| VPNs |  |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
| Worldwide Servers | 3000+ servers in 105 countries | 3200+ servers in 100 countries | 6000+ servers in 61 countries | 11651+ servers in 100 countries | 35000+ servers in 84 countries |
| Servers in Uganda | Nearby servers: Egypt | Nearby servers: UAE, Algeria, Egypt, Saudi Arabia | Nearby servers: UAE | Nearby servers: Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Egypt, UAE | Nearby servers: Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Egypt, UAE |
| Avg. Speed | 89.42 Mbps | 81.32 Mbps | 83.82 Mbps | 75.47 Mbps | 65.78 Mbps |
| Multi-Logins | 5 | Unlimited | 6 | 7 | 10 |
| Streaming | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and More | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and More | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and More | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and More | Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and More |
| Compatibility | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, routers |
| Best For | Overall Best VPN | Budget-friendly VPN | Secure VPN | User-friendly VPN | Torrenting VPN |
| Pricing | $6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free | $2.49/mo - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee | $3.99/mo - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free | $2.03/mo - Save up to 84% with exclusive 2-year plans + 4 months free | $2.11/mo |
5 Best VPNs For Uganda (In-Depth Analysis)
I have tested over 150+ VPNs to find the best VPNs for Uganda. I have tested these VPNs on various performance criteria like security, speed, geo-blocking, money-back guarantee, and more. Let’s have a look at which is the best VPN to use in Uganda.
ExpressVPN – Best VPN For Uganda
ExpressVPN is the best VPN for Uganda, as all of its servers are optimized to provide you with the best streaming, torrenting, and browsing experience, along with online security in Uganda. Does ExpressVPN work in Uganda? Yes, you can use this VPN service in Uganda.
The provider is headquartered in the British Virgin Islands, which means it follows a true“No-Log Policy,” – making it the perfect option for securing and hiding your online activity from government spies in Uganda.
ExpressVPN offers AES-256-bit military-grade Encryption for data protection. It also offers RAM servers, Lightway Protocol, and Private DNS.
For maximum security and to defeat ISP Throttling, there is also IP and DNS leak protection and an ExpressVPN Kill Switch, preventing your data from getting leaked over the internet. I conducted IP leak tests on its US – New York server, and there were no IP leaks detected.
ExpressVPN successfully concealed our IP and DNS requests while using the internet.
ExpressVPN offers several servers nearby Uganda.
Because of geo-restriction, many international streaming platforms do not offer their services in Uganda. So let’s suppose if you want to watch US Netflix, simply connect to the ExpressVPN US server to unblock its content.
ExpressVPN has indeed earned a reputation as one of the best VPNs for streaming, offering compatibility with numerous major streaming platforms.
Its effectiveness in unblocking platforms like BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Hotstar, HBO, and more makes it a versatile choice for users looking to access a diverse range of content from around the world.
To check how efficient is ExpressVPN in unblocking, I tried to unblock Netflix. Within 5 mins, I was able to start watching “Bridgerton” without having any buffering and speed issues which makes it the best VPN for Netflix.
I can instantly unblock Netflix in Uganda by connecting to the ExpressVPN Los Angeles server.
“Explore the seamless world of ExpressVPN with its user-friendly apps compatible with Windows, Android, iOS, and Linux, allowing for up to 5 simultaneous connections.
Notably, it goes beyond conventional protection with its innovative feature, Threat Manager, designed to safeguard against intrusive apps, trackers, and viruses. ExpressVPN stands as the best VPN for iPhone, ensuring top-tier security and a superior user experience for iOS devices.
The 7-day ExpressVPN free trial for mobile users makes it one of the few VPN apps that give free data, allowing you to test the service at no cost.
See this detailed ExpressVPN review.
Exclusive Deal:
In short, since ExpressVPN bypasses online censorship and keeps digital footprints secure, it can be called the best VPN. It is available for $6.67/mo - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
- Operating from a privacy-focused country (BVI)
- Unblocks international streaming services in Uganda
- Best VPN in Uganda for streaming and downloading Ugandan content
- P2p server for torrenting anonymously
- 100% protection against DNS/IP leaks
Cons
- Expensive but worth the money
- Split tunneling is not available in iOS
Surfshark – Budget-Friendly VPN For Uganda
Surfshark is the best budget-friendly VPN in Uganda, also known as the best cheap VPN for costing only $2.49/mo - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee. Surfshark is a great option for users in Uganda who are looking for an affordable option.
Surfshark is based in the Netherlands – a place with no mandatory data retention laws, so your privacy is intact with this VPN in Uganda. It also offers features such as CleanWeb, MultiHop, and WhiteLister to ensure that your online activity is completely hidden and untraceable so you can browse privately in Uganda.
I confirmed how Surfshark browses privately by doing an IP leak test. This best VPN for Uganda passed out with flying colors – as it did not leak my actual IP address while connected to its Australian server.
Surfshark successfully kept our IP address hidden when tested for IP Leaks.
Surfshark offers many fast servers near Uganda.
I could unblock all titles on this Netflix library within seconds.
Surfshark is the only provider on my list that supports unlimited simultaneous connections. With one Surfshark subscription, you can protect as many devices as you want, and enjoy advanced security features like 256-bit Encryption, Kill Switch, and NoBorders on all of its apps.
Surfshark’s OpenVPN protocol ensures secure and private internet connections, making it a reliable choice for users seeking robust encryption. Known for its budget-friendly pricing, Surfshark is widely regarded as one of the best VPNs for OpenVPN in USA, providing both affordability and strong security features.
Surfshark also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test all its features yourself in Uganda at no cost for 30 days.
Read my Surfshark review for more details.
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VPNRanks users can get Surfshark for just $2.49/mo - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
- CleanWeb for secure browsing and streaming in Uganda
- MultiHop feature for extra online security
- Affordable and best free VPN in Uganda
- Best VPN in Uganda with unlimited device connections
- Audited no-logs policy
Cons
- Email required for registration
NordVPN – Secure VPN For Uganda
NordVPN is the most secure VPN for Uganda in 2024. It has been exceptional over the years in proving itself to be a major stakeholder in setting up the industry security and privacy standards. Some of NordVPN’s notable features include Threat Protection, 256-bit encryption, Double VPN, and Obfuscated servers.
The provider is headquartered in Panama, which also doesn’t have any data retention laws. The people in Uganda can trust NordVPN as it provides next-generation Encryption and DNS Leak Protection, so you don’t have to worry about your confidential data leaking.
Additionally, it also offers features like NordVPN’s kill switch, Onion Over VPN, and a strict No-Logs Policy to solidify privacy online.
NordVPN has a network of 6000+ servers in 61 countries, all of which are extremely impressive at online security and good at providing access to streaming and torrenting services that are normally blocked in Uganda.
Although it doesn’t have any servers in Uganda, it does feature multiple servers in South African countries.
You can connect to any of these Nord servers to unblock restricted websites in Uganda.
NordVPN also offers obfuscated servers that disguise your VPN traffic as normal internet traffic. This way, your ISP or the site you visit cannot know you are using a VPN service.
Similarly, its Double VPN feature encrypts your traffic twice for added security. I also conducted IP leak tests by connecting to NordVPN’s Irish servers, and there were no IP leaks detected with this best VPN for Uganda.
No IP/DNS Leaks were detected with NordVPN’s UK server.
NordVPN is also good at unblocking restricted streaming services and also offers optimized servers for torrenting with NordVPN. To check its streaming support, I connect to its US server.
I successfully unblocked Disney Plus using NordVPN, Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and other platforms with ease.
Successfully unblocked Disney Plus by connecting to NordVPN US servers from Uganda.
For more details about this service, see this NordVPN review.
Exclusive Deal:
You can get NordVPN for $3.99/mo - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free, which comes with 6 simultaneous connections and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
- Advanced WireGuard protocol
- Extensive security suit
- Six simultaneous connections
- Best VPN in Uganda with Onion Over VPN
Cons
- Windows client has an annoying interface
CyberGhost – User-Friendly VPN For Uganda
CyberGhost is the most user-friendly VPN for Uganda, with easy-to-use apps for various platforms, including Windows, iOS, Android, Mac, and Linux. It is a great option for beginners in Uganda because it offers dedicated servers for various tasks like streaming, gaming, and torrenting. So, you can connect to the server according to your requirements.
CyberGhost operates from Romania, which also offers Ironclad Security and supports individual privacy laws. So you do not have to worry about your online data being leaked in Uganda. With CyberGhost, you can experience complete Access, No Censorship, or No Blocks while accessing restricted sites.
It also offers IP and DNS Leak Protection that is quite efficient as you can see from the screenshot below, it did not leak my real IP addresses.
CyberGhost successfully passed our IP & DNS leaks test.
Browse the internet securely from Uganda by connecting to any CyberGhost servers.
It does not have servers in Uganda, but there are servers in other African countries that you can use instead. With its international servers, you can unblock sites like Netflix, HBO, Disney+, Zee TV, and SonyLiv, and enjoy Lightning-Fast Connections in Uganda.
I found no difficulty in unblocking Amazon Prime using the CyberGhost Dallas server.
For more information, read our CyberGhost review.
Exclusive Deal:
CyberGhost is a low-priced VPN available for $2.03/mo - Save up to 84% with exclusive 2-year plans + 4 months free, with support for 7 simultaneous connections and a 45-day refund period, so you can give it a try at no cost for 45 days.
Pros
- User-friendly interface
- Robust encryption and privacy features
- Dependable kill switch
- 7 simultaneous connections
- No-spy servers
- Password Manager
Cons
- Slow connection on some servers.
PIA (Private Internet Access) – Best VPN For Torrenting In Uganda
Private Internet Access is Uganda’s best VPN for torrenting. It offers 35000+ servers in 84 countries worldwide but does not offer a server in Uganda. Still, you can unblock international content in Uganda with the help of its
PIA offers huge server locations, so you have many options to choose from in Uganda.
What’s best is that PIA’s servers are optimized for P2P with a SOCKS5 proxy for safe and secure torrenting.
In terms of security, PIA offers numerous features such as an Internet Kill Switch, Zero-Logs Policy, DNS or WebRTC leak protection, Port forwarding, and advanced Split Tunneling that help you safeguard your online whereabouts from surveillance actors, including government, ISPs, and snoopers.
Its further advanced encryption settings include Ad & malware blocking and Dedicated IP. Just to be sure, I conducted an IP leak test while connected to PIA’s France server. As you can see from the screenshot, my actual IP wasn’t leaking, thanks to PIA’s IP leak protection.
All of our DNS requests were routed through PIA-encrypted servers.
With the help of its UK and US servers, you can connect and unblock Netflix using the PIA through US server or BBC iPlayer using its UK server. I checked its unblocking capability and managed to access American Netflix in Uganda in 35 seconds.
You can stream American Netflix using the PIA US server.
Please read our detailed PIA VPN review For more information about this VPN
Exclusive Deal:
With one PIA account, you can have 10 simultaneous connections. It is available for only $2.11/mo and comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
- Largest server network across the globe
- Decent speeds for streaming in Uganda
- Offers dedicated IPs
- WireGuard Protocol
- Kill switch
Cons
- Operates under US jurisdiction – a known member of Five Eyes International Surveillance agencies
Testing Methodology: How I Tested The Best VPN For Uganda
The above 5 best VPNs for Uganda have been tested on various criteria. So, when you are looking for a VPN in Uganda, make sure to consider the following important criteria:
- Server network: Make sure the VPN offers a large server network with global coverage. I also considered VPNs with Uganda servers or VPNs with servers in surrounding Ugandan countries. This will help bypass restrictions and access Uganda’s international (and local) content.
- Robust encryption: The best VPN for Uganda should use 256-bit AES Encryption for data protection. It should also offer other security features like a kill switch, IP leak protection, and more. I suggest connecting to a VPN with Uganda server.
- Ability to bypass geo-blocks: Make sure to choose a VPN that can bypass geo-blocks and give you unrestricted access to streaming and torrenting sites in Uganda.
- Compatibility: VPN should be compatible with a wide range of devices like Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, and Linux, so users in Uganda can download their apps without difficulties. It should also be compatible with routers and support at least 5 simultaneous connections.
- 24/7 customer support: Make sure to choose a VPN that offers 24/7 customer support in all countries so you can reach out to them in case of facing connectivity issues in Uganda.
- Money-back guarantee: Choose a VPN that offers at least a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can test the service in Uganda before buying. Among the VPNs mentioned above, CyberGhost is the only one offering a 45-day money-back guarantee.
3 Reasons Why You Need A VPN In Uganda
The importance of the best VPN for Uganda has increased amidst wrongful governmental measures and censorship. Here are 3 major reasons you need a VPN in Uganda:
1. Online Censorship
The Ugandan government imposes high-handed censorship on the internet. Criticism of the government expressed by journalists or bloggers is disapproved of by the government, and some arrests have been made in the past to stifle critical voices against the government.
Moreover, the government has also imposed a social media tax of USD $.05/day that people must pay to access websites like WhatsApp, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. The move was rationalized as a step taken to minimize “gossip” on the web.
That’s why Uganda VPNs are needed to bypass this unjust online censorship and enjoy the online freedom that every Uganda truly deserves.
2. Accessing Geo-restricted websites
Many streaming services and websites are bound by geo-restrictions, making them inaccessible to other regions. In Uganda, for instance, you can’t access Hulu or Amazon Prime Video. Even though Netflix works in Uganda, it has a small content library compared to the US, UK, and Japan.
The offshore servers of a VPN, especially those located in the US, can help you gain access to these geo-blocked services in Uganda with ease. By changing your Netflix region, you can also enjoy geo-restricted titles that are otherwise unavailable in Uganda.
3. Public Wi-Fi Security
Public Wi-Fi hotspots lack proper security and are often open to access for everyone. This means that there is not even any password protection on public Wi-Fi. The strong 256-bit AES Encryption used by top-rated VPN services gives you more security and makes it a lot more difficult for any potential hackers on the same network to breach your privacy.
This is why it is strongly recommended to use a VPN if you must access a public Wi-Fi hotspot, as you can never be sure about your security on such networks.
How Do I Use A VPN in Uganda?
you should follow these steps to bypass Uganda’s social media Tax using the best VPN for Uganda:
- Choose a VPN from our list of suggestions. Our best-recommended VPN is ExpressVPN.
- Wait to receive an email with your login information after registering with your payment card information.
- Install the correct apps on your device. I advise you to app directly from the VPN’s website or app or Google store.
- Then restart your device after clearing your cookies.
- Open the app after logging in, then connect to a server outside of Uganda. Because of their tight privacy rules, I suggest you use servers in North America or Europe.
- You’ll get a notification after connecting successfully by a VPN icon appearing at the top of your smartphone’s screen or on the left side of your Windows or Mac’s taskbar.
- You can now visit social networking websites in Uganda anonymously without paying any tax charges.
Ugandan Crackdown On VPNs
As Ugandans regain their online freedom in large numbers, the government is concerned about losing revenue. After hearing that VPNs were becoming more and more popular, the authorities acted quickly to take action.
Godfrey Mutabazi, the executive director of the Uganda Communications Commission, said in a statement that Internet service providers will be required to disable VPNs to stop people from evading the social media tax.
Users often ask, “Is VPN legal in Uganda?” I can confirm that using a VPN in Uganda is legal. It’s important to recognize, though, that the government has made attempts to block VPN services and instructed ISPs to limit VPN traffic. Despite these challenges, VPNs like ExpressVPN continue to operate reliably in Uganda.
Moreover, many Ugandans might be opposed to the tax as a matter of principle rather than simply finding a way to save additional costs. For these individuals, a VPN serves as a rebellion tool to access social media apps in Uganda without providing the government with an unreasonable tax imposition.
Should I choose A Free VPN In Uganda?
No, while a free VPN for Uganda offers cost-free internet access, it’s not advisable to opt for one. Even though these free VPNs might help you bypass restrictive regulations and avoid measures like the social media tax, they come with limitations.
In short, a VPN that gives free data in Uganda mostly means trouble. This is why I suggest you stick to using a premium option like ExpressVPN instead of a free internet VPN in Uganda. If you are experiencing issues like VPN Not Working this is probably because you are using a VPN with free internet in Uganda that can not bypass geo-blocks.
Experience The Speed: Top VPNs For Windows 11 In Uganda
I am thrilled to share insights on the top VPNs for Windows 11 for those residing in Uganda or interested in a VPN with a Uganda server. After thorough testing, I have pinpointed VPNs that provide not only robust security but also impressive speed, perfect for the needs of users in Uganda.
The VPN market has some attractive offers this month: NordVPN is giving a 74% discount with 3 extra months, and Surfshark has an 86% discount on their 2-year plan with extra months. These promotions are time-sensitive, so I recommend taking advantage of them swiftly.
VPNs That Are Blocked In Uganda
During our testing, I found many VPNs blocked in Uganda. I have listed them down for your convenience.
| ProtonVPN | Windscribe |
| Speedify | Hide.me |
| Tuxler VPN | SuperVPN |
If you are wondering Which VPN has Uganda as a server? Then let me tell you that TeraVPN’s servers are purposely located in Uganda, this is a no cost data VPN in Uganda but I recommend using a premium VPN like ExpressVPN.
VPN Guides For Other Countries
FAQs – Best VPN Uganda
Can I use VPN in Uganda?
Yes, you users can use VPN in Uganda as there are no such laws against VPNs, but their government blocks VPN activity. They’ve even ordered ISPs to prohibit VPN users in the past. However, if you use an effective VPN like ExpressVPN, you can easily evade its VPN ban.
Which VPN is best to use in Uganda?
The best VPNs to use in Uganda are as follows:
- ExpressVPN: The premier choice for Uganda.
- Surfshark: Offers excellent value.
- NordVPN: Boasts an extensive network of high-speed servers.
- CyberGhost: Impresses with some of the fastest servers we’ve evaluated.
- Private Internet Access: Well-regarded for its privacy features and circumventing internet restrictions.
What is the best VPN for iPhone in Uganda?
ExpressVPN is Uganda’s best VPN for iPhones. It has a 4.6 rating on the App Store. With a sleek design, easy accessibility to servers, and security features, it is no doubt the best VPN for iPhone to use in Uganda.
What are the best VPNs for Android in Uganda?
ExpressVPN, Surfshark, and NordVPN are the best VPNs for Android. Our top recommendation is ExpressVPN, as it has a high Google Play Store rating of 4.4 and is also compatible with various Android models like Samsung, Huawei, LG, Nokia, Sony, and more.
What else can you do with a VPN in Uganda?
you can access any content since a virtual private network can easily change your IP address. A VPN for Uganda secures all citizens from unsafe Wi-Fi hotspots and allows them to access geo-blocked content in Uganda.
Moreover, a VPN can aid you in evading social media tax and securely downloading P2P files. Since Uganda orders all social media to be blocked, I believe you should remain safe by using a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN.
How do I get a Uganda VPN?
All you need to do is choose the best VPN for Uganda. Per our tests, I recommend using ExpressVPN, since it offers multiple Uganda servers, excellent unblocking abilities, and blazing-fast speeds.
Is using VPN illegal in Uganda?
Even though VPNs aren’t illegal in Uganda, the country’s government does block VPN traffic. They’ve also previously ordered ISPs to block all consumers who use VPNs. And, the effects of being caught are pretty grave.
This is why I recommend using ExpressVPN whose all servers are obfuscated so your ISP cannot identify VPN traffic.
Best VPN For Uganda: Finishing Up
To bypass government censorship present in Uganda, you need a reliable Uganda VPN that will not only hide your internet activity but ensure that no one can trace your online activity. The best VPN for Uganda mentioned above is capable of protecting you online but is also best for unblocking geo-restricted content in Uganda.
My top recommendation for users in Uganda is ExpressVPN. It offers powerful 256-bit Encryption for data protection and an excellent unblocking ability to bypass government-imposed internet restrictions and censorship in stark contrast to some free internet VPNs in Uganda.