Things To Do
in Kampala
Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, is a vibrant metropolis sprawling across several hills and valleys, known for its diverse cultural tapestry and bustling markets. It serves as the country’s economic and administrative hub, housing numerous businesses, government offices, and foreign embassies, alongside educational institutions of repute.
Kampala also offers a mix of modern and traditional experiences, from its thriving nightlife and culinary scenes to historic sites such as the Kasubi Tombs and the Uganda Museum, reflecting the rich heritage of the Buganda Kingdom and broader Ugandan culture.
- "Oli otya" - How are you?
- "Webale n'amaani" - Thank you very much
- "Nkwagala" - I love you
- "Buli kimu" - Everything is okay
- "Tukole musana" - Let's work together
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Uganda Museum to learn about the country's rich history and culture. Stroll through the exhibits and appreciate the diverse heritage.
Head to the vibrant Craft Market to shop for unique handmade souvenirs. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Ugandan dishes.
Relax at the shores of Lake Victoria as you watch the sunset. Consider dining at a lakeside restaurant for a memorable experience.
Visit the Kasubi Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about the Buganda Kingdom. Take a guided tour to understand the significance of the site.
Explore the Namirembe Cathedral, which offers stunning views of the city. Spend some time reflecting in this serene environment.
Enjoy a cultural performance at the Ndere Cultural Centre. Savor local dishes while watching traditional dances and music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse communities.
- Vibrant social scene with numerous restaurants, markets, and entertainment options.
- Strategic location near various natural attractions, including Lake Victoria.
- Growing economy with opportunities in sectors like technology and hospitality.
- Mild climate with relatively stable temperatures throughout the year.
- Traffic congestion can be severe, especially during peak hours.
- Infrastructure challenges, including roads and public transportation.
- Inconsistent access to basic services like electricity and clean water in some areas.
- High levels of poverty and inequality in various neighborhoods.
- Safety concerns, including petty crime in urban areas.
Best Activities in Kampala
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the history and culture of Uganda at the country's largest museum.
Enjoy a peaceful cruise on Africa's largest lake, taking in the scenic views and possibly spotting some wildlife.
Discover a variety of bird species in the lush surroundings of the Entebbe Botanical Gardens.
Learn about the traditions and history of the Buganda kingdom at this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Experience traditional Ugandan music and dance performances at this cultural institution.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kampala with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kampala
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Kampala
Historical site with scenic surroundings
Great spot for cultural and architectural photography
Provides stunning views of the city
Food in Kampala
Kampala Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular street food consisting of a rolled chapati filled with eggs, vegetables, and sometimes meat. It can be found at street stalls and markets throughout Kampala, with particularly delicious rolex stands in areas like Katwe and Wandegeya.
Must-Try!
A staple of Ugandan cuisine, matoke is a dish made from steamed and mashed green bananas, often served with peanut sauce, meat, or beans. It's a must-try dish, and is widely available at local eateries and market stalls.
Luwombo is a traditional Ugandan dish where meat, chicken, or fish is stewed with groundnut sauce and vegetables, then steamed in banana leaves. Visitors can sample this dish at restaurants specializing in Ugandan cuisine, such as the famous Faze 2 restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kampala better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Owino Market, one of the largest markets in Kampala, offers a wide variety of street food vendors selling everything from rolex to grilled meats and fresh fruit. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the local food culture.
Kasubi Market is another bustling spot where visitors can sample local street food like fried grasshoppers, samosas, and mandazi (a type of East African doughnut). It's an excellent destination to experience authentic Ugandan street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kampala, it is important to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting someone for the first time. It is also common to use the phrases 'hello' or 'good morning/afternoon' when entering a room or starting a conversation.
Respecting elders is a fundamental cultural norm in Kampala. It is important to show deference and use appropriate language and gestures when interacting with older individuals.
Gift giving is a common practice as a sign of respect or gratitude. When presenting a gift, it is polite to use both hands and to express your gratitude for the person's hospitality or kindness.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kampala with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kampala
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kampala, tipping is not mandatory but it is appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for other services. A tip of 5-10% is customary if a service charge is not included in the bill.
Cash is predominantly used for transactions in Kampala, although credit and debit cards are accepted at some hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. It's advisable to carry cash in local currency (Ugandan Shilling) for smaller transactions and in more remote areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kampala.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit, with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. Perfect for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
Rainy season, with lush green landscapes. May experience occasional showers, but still good for exploring the city and countryside.
Cooler temperatures and lower humidity. Good time for cultural events, festivals, and city sightseeing.
Warmer temperatures return, with fewer tourists. Great for enjoying outdoor activities and visiting national parks.
Kampala at Night
Hiking in Kampala
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of Kampala and its surroundings. The area has trails for hiking and is popular among locals and tourists.
Located near the city, Namboole Hill has trails that lead through lush vegetation and offer a taste of local wildlife. It's a great spot for a day hike.
Kibuli Hill features a network of hiking paths that weave through the forested area and provide stunning views of the city skyline.
A popular hiking trail near Kampala, known for its challenging paths and beautiful nature views. Ideal for those looking for a workout in nature.
The area surrounding the Baha'i Temple has well-maintained paths for hiking, with spiritual and serene surroundings perfect for a peaceful hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kampala through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kampala by plane.
The main airport serving Kampala, located in Entebbe, about 40 kilometers southwest of the city center. It is the largest and busiest airport in Uganda, handling both international and domestic flights.
Located in Nairobi, Kenya, approximately 400 kilometers southeast of Kampala, it is the busiest airport in East Africa and serves as a major hub for international flights.
Located in Zanzibar, Tanzania, about 850 kilometers south of Kampala, this airport is a key gateway for tourists heading to the island of Zanzibar and has international flight connections.
Situated in Kigali, Rwanda, roughly 400 kilometers southwest of Kampala, it serves as a major regional hub for international flights across Africa.
Located in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, about 1,200 kilometers south of Kampala, it is one of the major international airports in Tanzania.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Uganda, particularly concentrated in the central region around Kampala.
An ethnic group from the eastern region, present in Kampala due to migration and urbanization.
Originating from the southwestern region, they have migrated to Kampala for economic opportunities.
An ethnic group from the western region that has established a presence in Kampala.
A smaller ethnic group that has found its way to Kampala, contributing to its diversity.
Includes various smaller ethnic communities from across Uganda and neighboring countries.
Individuals from various countries, including expatriates and refugees, living in Kampala.
The Soul of Kampala
Discover the essence of Kampala through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Kampala, with a passionate following and several local clubs, including the famous Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) FC.
Rugby is quite popular in Uganda, with a growing number of clubs and competitions. The Uganda national rugby team, the Cranes, has gained recognition in regional tournaments.
Basketball enjoys significant popularity in Kampala, with numerous local leagues and schools promoting the sport. The Uganda national basketball team has also garnered attention in international competitions.
Netball is widely played, particularly among women and girls. Uganda's national netball team competes at international levels and has qualified for several world championships.
Cricket has a dedicated following in Uganda, with local clubs and leagues in Kampala. The Uganda cricket team has participated in various international competitions.
Athletics is promoted through various schools and clubs in Kampala, and Uganda has produced several world-class long-distance runners.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kampala.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Ugandan cuisine often features meat-based dishes, many restaurants and cafes in Kampala now offer vegetarian and vegan options. Look for places that serve gnut sauce with steamed vegetables, or explore vegetarian-friendly eateries like Govinda's or Khana Khazana.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like matoke, grilled fish, and fresh fruit, which are readily available and naturally gluten-free. Additionally, some restaurants in Kampala are now catering to gluten-free diets by offering specific menu items or modifications upon request.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kampala with these cultural adventures.
