Things To Do
in Kampala
Kampala, the vibrant capital city of Uganda, is known for its rolling hills and friendly locals. It serves as the country's cultural and economic hub, boasting a rich history and diverse population. The city is dotted with various attractions, including markets, parks, and historical sites.
Kampala's lively atmosphere, combined with its warm climate, makes it a must-visit destination in East Africa.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Uganda Museum to learn about the country's cultural heritage.
Head to the bustling Owino Market for lunch and to shop for local crafts and produce.
Enjoy a traditional Ugandan dinner at The Lawns Restaurant, followed by a relaxing evening at a local bar.
Explore the beautiful greenery of Makerere University and take a stroll through its scenic grounds.
Visit the Kasubi Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to understand the history of the Buganda Kingdom.
Savor a meal at the popular Café Javas and then enjoy live music at one of the local venues.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a restaurant | $10 |
| ☕Coffee | $2 |
| 🚌Bus ticket | $0.50 |
| 🏨Hotel room (per night) | $50 |
| 🛒Grocery shopping (per week) | $30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and rich cultural experiences.
- Diverse culinary scene with unique local dishes.
- Vibrant nightlife and numerous outdoor activities.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Occasional safety concerns in certain neighborhoods.
- "Oli otya?" - How are you?
- "Webale" - Thank you.
- "Nnyamba" - Excuse me.
- "Tugende" - Let’s go.
- "Okwagala" - I love you.
Places to Visit in Kampala
Visit one of these nice places.
A prominent venue for sports events, offering a great view of the city from its stands.
Provides panoramic views of Kampala and is a popular spot for sunset photography.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing traditional Buganda architecture and rich history.
Food in Kampala
Kampala Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed green bananas often served with groundnut sauce or meat.
Must-Try!
A traditional stew made with meat, vegetables, and groundnuts, served with rice or posho.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest markets in Kampala, offering a wide range of fresh produce, street food, and local delicacies.
A vibrant market known for its fresh fruits, vegetables, and a variety of street food options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is a common greeting; it’s polite to greet others with 'Oli otya?' meaning 'How are you?'
Showing respect for elders is important; stand when an elder enters the room.
Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites or rural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Kampala
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common in restaurants and for service workers, typically around 10% of the bill.
Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many hotels and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time for outdoor activities, with minimal rain and clear skies.
Expect heavy rains; it's advisable to carry an umbrella and wear waterproof shoes.
Temperatures are cooler, making it a comfortable time for sightseeing and exploring the city.
Intermittent rains occur, but the landscape is lush and vibrant, ideal for photography.
Kampala at Night
Hiking in Kampala
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 300 km from Kampala, it offers stunning trails through tropical rainforests and is famous for chimpanzee tracking.
Approximately 200 km from Kampala, this extinct volcano features several hiking trails that lead to its breathtaking summit.
Airports
How to reach Kampala by plane.
Located about 40 kilometers from Kampala, this is the main international gateway to Uganda, offering flights to various destinations across Africa and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Uganda, predominantly found in the central region, particularly around Kampala.
Another prominent ethnic group, mainly residing in the eastern region of Uganda, with a significant population in Kampala.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is immensely popular in Uganda, with local clubs and national teams drawing large crowds.
Rugby has a growing following, with several clubs and a national team competing in regional tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kampala.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to confirm with the chef.
Halal options are available, especially in areas with a significant Muslim population.