How to Call Uganda from the USA? A Step-by-Step Guide

When calling Uganda from the USA, you must consider the US exit code and the key components of the Uganda phone number format, including the country code, an area code or mobile prefix, and the local subscriber number. Each of them plays a crucial role in connecting your call without issues.

When calling internationally, you must always begin with your country’s exit code. For the United States, the exit code is 011. It informs your network that you’re about to make an international call.

A Uganda phone number includes the country code, area code, mobile prefix, and local subscriber number.

• Uganda Country Code: Uganda’s country code is +256. This code connects your international call to Uganda’s national phone system.
• Uganda Area Code: Area codes are a crucial part of Ugandan landline numbers, representing the number’s origin region. Uganda has approximately 20 area codes, each typically consisting of 1 or 2 digits.
• Uganda Mobile Prefix: Mobile phone numbers in Uganda do not include the area codes. Instead, they start with specific prefixes like 70, 71, 75, 77, or 78, depending on the mobile operator.
• Local Subscriber Number: This is the final part of the phone number. A Ugandan subscriber number is usually seven digits long and identifies the specific person or business you’re calling.

To contact Uganda from the US, dial the US exit code, followed by Uganda’s country code, the area code (for landlines), or the mobile prefix (for mobile numbers), followed by the local subscriber number.

To call a Ugandan landline from the US, dial the US exit code (011), then Uganda's country code (256), followed by the area code and the local 7-digit landline number.

• Step 1: Dial the US exit code, 011.
• Step 2: Enter Uganda’s country code, 256.
• Step 3: Add the area code of your target region.
• Step 4: Then, dial the local 7-digit landline number.

To call a mobile number in Uganda from the USA, dial 011 (US exit code), 256 (Uganda country code), and then the local 9-digit mobile number starting with 7.

• Step 1: First, dial the US exit code, 011.
• Step 2: Key in Uganda’s country code, 256.
• Step 3: Dial the local mobile number starting with 7.

To call toll-free numbers in Uganda from the US, dial 011 (US exit code), 256 (Uganda country code), the toll-free prefix (usually starting with “800”), followed by the 6-digit local number.

• Step 1: Start with 011, the US exit code.
• Step 2: Dial Uganda country code, 256.
• Step 3: Add toll-free prefix.
• Step 4: Then, dial the 6-digit local number.

Note: Not all toll-free numbers in Uganda may be reachable from abroad. And, for those accessible, an international charge may still apply.

The best time to call Uganda is typically between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM Uganda time, which aligns with standard business hours in the country.

For personal calls, aim for late afternoon to early evening in Uganda, when people are more likely to be free or available. However, you’ll need to consider the time zone difference between the countries to avoid calling too early or too late.

Uganda operates on East Africa Time (EAT), which is UTC +3. Depending on your US time zone, Uganda can be anywhere from 8 to 11 hours ahead of the US time.

Here’s a quick table to help you find the best times to call from different parts of the US:

The cost to contact Uganda from the US can range anywhere from $0.30 to over $3.00 per minute, depending on the telephone carrier, the type of number you're calling (landline or mobile), and your chosen plan. Major carriers charge different rates, and the charge is typically higher, especially when you haven’t subscribed to any dedicated international calling plan.

Here’s a quick look at what popular US carriers charge for calls to Uganda:

Social media apps, virtual phone numbers, and calling cards provide an affordable way to make international calls to Uganda from the US. These options help avoid the high roaming charges that come with traditional carriers for international calls.

Social media apps like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger allow you to make calls using Wi-Fi or mobile data instead of traditional phone networks. However, both parties must be connected through the same app for calls.

Virtual phone numbers use VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology for making calls over the internet. VoIP service providers offer these online numbers with a comparatively lower international calling rate. Moreover, you can use them on your smartphones, desktops, or tablets, providing a more flexible way to stay connected.

Calling cards are prepaid cards that often include bundled per-minute charges, with a discounted rate for international calls. You can purchase them online or from retail shops. To use the card, simply dial the access code and PIN code (available on the card itself) and enter your desired phone number.

Calling Uganda from the US is straightforward once you know the correct dialing format. However, using a traditional carrier can be expensive, especially for frequent or long-distance calls. While social media apps and calling cards offer cheaper options, they have limitations. Calling cards come with limited minutes, while social media apps are not suitable for situations where the other person doesn’t use the same app.

For a more flexible and affordable solution, consider using a virtual phone number from Calilio. It not only allows you to make international calls at low rates, but also comes with added telephony features. The call quality is always reliable if you have a strong internet connection. Plus, you get a US virtual phone number for free with every subscription.