Kampala - Discovering Uganda

Travelling to Kampala

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kampala, a pretty good destination in Uganda (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kampala and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kampala, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Uganda, here's everything to know about Kampala for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kampala

Kampala is the capital and largest city of Uganda, located in the central region of the country. It has a population of over 1.5 million people and is the economic, political, and cultural center of the country. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, bustling markets, and historic landmarks such as the Kasubi Tombs and the Uganda Museum. It also serves as a hub for travellers who are heading to other parts of Uganda, such as Jinja and the Ssese Islands. Kampala has a tropical climate with two rainy seasons and two dry seasons throughout the year.

What to visit in Kampala

Sure, here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Kampala, Uganda: 1. Kasubi Tombs - The Kasubi Tombs is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains the burial grounds of the Kings of Buganda. The site is revered among the Buganda people and serves as a sacred cultural site.
2. Uganda Museum - The Uganda Museum is the oldest museum in East Africa and offers a glimpse into the country's cultural heritage and history. Exhibits include traditional musical instruments, archeological artifacts, and ethnographic displays.
3. Namirembe Cathedral - Namirembe Cathedral is the oldest Anglican Cathedral in Kampala and offers a beautiful example of colonial-era architecture.
4. Owino Market - Owino Market is one of the largest open-air markets in East Africa and is an excellent place to find local crafts, clothing, and fresh produce.
5. Ndere Centre - The Ndere Centre is an excellent place to experience traditional music and dance performances from across Uganda and East Africa.
6. Gaddafi National Mosque - The Gaddafi National Mosque is the largest mosque in Uganda and offers stunning views of Kampala.
7. Baha'i Temple - The Baha'i Temple is one of only eight Baha'i temples in the world and is known for its unique architecture and beautiful gardens.
8. Lake Victoria - Lake Victoria is one of the largest lakes in the world and offers the opportunity to relax on beautiful beaches and enjoy water sports.
9. Kabaka's Palace - The Kabaka's Palace is the official residence of the King of Buganda and offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Ugandan royal life.
10. Entebbe Wildlife Education Centre - The Entebbe Wildlife Education Centre is a great place to see native African animals up close, including lions, giraffes, and zebras.
I hope this information helps you in planning your trip to Kampala, Uganda!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Uganda, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kampala.

When to go on holiday to Kampala

The best time to visit Kampala (Uganda) is during the drier months, from December to February and from June to August. During these months, there is less rainfall, and the weather is generally cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities. The wettest months in Kampala are March to May and October to November, where heavy rainfalls can cause flooding, making it harder to move around and explore the city.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kampala

There are different ways to get to Kampala, Uganda, depending on where you are traveling from. Here are some options: By Air: The easiest and fastest way to get to Kampala is by air. The city is served by Entebbe International Airport, which is located about 40km from the city. From the airport, you can take a taxi or private car to Kampala.
By Road: You can also get to Kampala by road if you are traveling from neighboring countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi. There are several bus companies that operate on these routes, and you can also hire a private car.
By Railway: There is a railway line that connects Kampala with Mombasa in Kenya. However, this option is not very popular as the train service is infrequent.
By Water: You can also get to Kampala by water by taking a ferry from Tanzania or Kenya to the Port Bell pier in Kampala. However, this option is not recommended as it is time-consuming and can be quite expensive.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Kampala.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kampala, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kampala

Sure, I'd be happy to help! Here are some popular foods you can find in Kampala, Uganda, along with a brief description: 1. Matooke: This is a staple food in Uganda made from cooking and mashing green bananas. It is usually served with peanut sauce, meat, and vegetables.
2. Rolex: This is a popular street food in Kampala made by wrapping a chapati (flatbread) around an omelette with vegetables and sometimes meat. It is often served with a chili and tomato sauce.
3. Luwombo: This is a traditional Ugandan dish where meat or fish is wrapped in banana leaves and steamed with spices. It is often served with matooke.
4. Groundnut soup: This is a delicious soup that is made with peanuts, tomatoes, onions, and other seasonings. It is often served with rice and matooke.
5. Mandazi: This is a popular breakfast food in Uganda made from deep-fried dough. It is similar to a doughnut and often served with tea or coffee.
6. Nile Perch: This is a type of freshwater fish that is found in Lake Victoria and is a popular dish in Kampala. It is usually grilled or fried and served with rice, matooke or vegetables.
7. Chapati and beans: This is a simple but satisfying dish made with chapati (flatbread) and red beans, which are often cooked with spices and onions. It is usually served with hot sauce or chili peppers.
I hope that helps give you an idea of some of the delicious foods you can try in Kampala, Uganda!
You can find general info about typical foods in Uganda here.

Is Kampala an expensive destination for tourists?

Kampala is relatively affordable compared to many other tourist destinations in the world. However, the cost of living in Kampala can vary depending on the lifestyle and preferences of the individual tourist. For example, if you choose to stay in luxury hotels and eat at expensive restaurants, your trip expenses will be higher. On the other hand, there are many budget-friendly options for accommodation, food, and transportation that can save you money while still allowing you to enjoy your trip. To get a better idea of the cost of a trip to Kampala, it's recommended to research and compare prices for flights, accommodation, food, and activities.

Where to find accomodation in Kampala

The best areas to find accommodations in Kampala are Kololo, Nakasero, Bugolobi, and Namirembe. These areas are safe, close to popular attractions, and have a wide range of accommodation options including luxury hotels, budget hostels, and serviced apartments. Additionally, these areas offer access to good restaurants and bars, shopping centers, and other amenities that enhance your experience in Kampala.
You can check hotel prices at Kampala here:
Booking.com

Is Kampala a safe destination for tourists?

Kampala is generally considered a safe place for tourists, although like any other city, it's important to take some precautions to ensure your safety.
Petty theft and pickpocketing are the most common crimes in Kampala, so it's recommended to avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry while walking around in busy areas. You should also be cautious when using public transportation, especially at night.
It's important to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid any areas that appear unsafe or are known to have high crime rates, particularly after dark. Ask locals or your hotel staff for advice on which areas to avoid.
Overall, by exercising basic common sense and taking precautions, visitors to Kampala should have a safe and enjoyable experience.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Uganda here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kampala.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kampala the most?

Kampala, Uganda offers a variety of experiences for all types of travelers. Couples will enjoy the vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, and romantic dining options. Young people looking for fun will enjoy the lively music scene, street markets, and adventurous experiences like bungee jumping.
Families will enjoy Kampala's family-friendly attractions such as wildlife safaris, zoos, and museums. There are also many parks and outdoor spaces for children to play in.
Overall, Kampala is a location that can accommodate all types of travelers and offers a unique blend of natural and cultural attractions.

How to get around Kampala

The most common modes of transportation in Kampala include boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis), matatus (shared minivans), taxis, and buses. Boda-bodas are the quickest and easiest way to get around, but they can also be dangerous, so it's important to choose a reputable driver and wear a helmet. Matatus follow set routes and are a cheap option for short journeys. Taxis are a bit more expensive but offer a more comfortable and safer option. Buses are available for longer distances and are usually more comfortable and reliable. It's important to note that traffic can be congested in Kampala, so it's best to plan for some extra time to get to your destination.

What to see around Kampala

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Kampala: 1. Entebbe Botanical Gardens: About 40 minutes from Kampala, the Entebbe Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful break amongst the beautiful gardens, birds, and many species of monkeys.
2. Mabira Forest: Mabira Forest is a nature lover’s paradise, covering over 300 square kilometers of unspoiled equatorial rainforest. It's only 45 km from Kampala and a great destination for hiking.
3. Jinja: Located about 80 km east of Kampala, Jinja is a beautiful town and the source of the Nile. Visitors can see the point where the Nile River starts, and enjoy activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping and others.
4. Ssezibwa Falls: The beautiful Ssezibwa Falls are located between Kampala and Jinja. The falls are surrounded by lush vegetation, perfect for picnics and nature walks.
5. Lake Mburo National Park: Located 230 kilometres southwest of Kampala, Lake Mburo is the closest national park to Kampala. The park is a great place to see a variety of animals including zebras, giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles.
6. Murchison Falls: Located on the Nile River, Murchison Falls is the largest national park in Uganda, and the famous waterfall is a must-see sight. It takes about 4 hours to drive from Kampala.
7. Mpanga Forest Reserve: Located only 35 km from Kampala, Mpanga Forest Reserve is a beautiful nature reserve that is home to a variety of birdlife and primates, including chimpanzees.
I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Uganda you can click here.

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