Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, is a vibrant metropolis that embodies a perfect blend of cultural richness, historical significance, and modern development. As the largest city in the country, Kampala offers visitors a unique insight into Uganda’s history, diverse communities, and thriving economy. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the city’s attractions, accommodations, transportation, food, history, and more.
🗺️ Key Facts About Kampala
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Official Language | English (with Luganda widely spoken) |
| Population | Approximately 1.8 million (as of 2023) |
| Area | 189.7 km² |
| Country | Uganda |
| Continent | Africa |
| Local Time | East Africa Time (EAT) UTC +3 |
| Currency | Ugandan Shilling (UGX) |
| Power Plug Type | Type G (three rectangular pins) |
| Average Annual Temperature | 25°C (77°F) |
| Climate | Tropical Rainforest climate with distinct wet and dry seasons |
| Vegetation | Tropical forests, grasslands, and wetlands |
| Main Sources of Income | Agriculture, trade, manufacturing, and services |
| Country Code | +256 |
| City Phone Code | 041 |
🌍 Key Tourist Attractions in Kampala
- Uganda Museum: The oldest museum in Uganda, housing artifacts that showcase the country’s rich history and culture.
- Kasubi Tombs: A UNESCO World Heritage site and burial grounds for the Kings of Buganda.
- Ndere Cultural Centre: A place where visitors can experience traditional Ugandan music, dance, and drama.
- Gaddafi National Mosque: A stunning mosque that offers panoramic views of the city from its minaret.
🚗 How to Get to Kampala
Kampala is accessible by air, road, and rail:
- By Air: Entebbe International Airport (EBB) is the main gateway into Uganda, about 40 km from Kampala. It’s well connected to major international airports.
- By Road: Kampala is well connected by road to other parts of Uganda. Public buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services like Uber are available.
- By Rail: There are limited rail services from neighboring cities, but the primary mode of transportation is by road.
🚉 Best Transportation Tips in Kampala
Getting around Kampala is fairly easy with the following options:
- Boda Bodas (Motorbike Taxis): Fast and efficient for short distances, but be cautious as traffic can be chaotic.
- Matatus (Minibuses): These are cheap but crowded; they follow set routes within the city.
- Taxis: They are available and offer more comfort and privacy compared to matatus.
🏨 Where to Stay in Kampala
Kampala offers a range of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Here are the best options:
- Budget Accommodation:
- Red Chilli Hideaway: Starting at $15 per night.
- Hostel Oasis: Starting at $12 per night.
- Mid-Range Accommodation:
- Speke Hotel: Starting at $60 per night.
- Kampala Serena Hotel: Starting at $130 per night.
- Luxury Accommodation:
- Sheraton Kampala Hotel: Starting at $170 per night.
- The Pearl of Africa Hotel: Starting at $200 per night.
🍴 Food Recommendations in Kampala
Kampala is a food lover’s paradise with a variety of local and international dishes. Some must-try foods include:
- Rolex: A Ugandan street food, essentially a chapati filled with eggs, vegetables, and sometimes meat.
- Matoke: Ugandan plantains often served as a side dish.
- Ugandan Luwombo: A stew made with meat or vegetables, steamed in banana leaves.
☕ Top Cafés and Restaurants in Kampala
If you’re looking for a great place to eat or relax, here are some top spots:
- Café Javas: Known for its delicious coffee and international menu.
- The Bistro: A great option for a mix of African and Western dishes in a cozy setting.
- Java House: Popular for its coffee and hearty meals, perfect for a quick bite.
🏛️ History of Kampala
Kampala was originally built on seven hills, and it grew from a small kingdom capital to Uganda’s bustling capital city. It’s home to diverse ethnic groups, with a mix of cultural influences that have shaped its history. The city saw significant development during British colonial rule, and post-independence, it became the heart of Uganda’s economy, politics, and culture.
🏞️ Major Geographic Features
- Lake Victoria: The largest lake in Africa, located just to the south of Kampala.
- Mountains of the Moon: To the west of the city, these mountains are known for their beautiful scenery.
- River Nile: The world’s longest river, flows from Lake Victoria to the Mediterranean Sea.
🌍 Famous Residents of Kampala
- Idi Amin: The controversial former president of Uganda.
- John Musinguzi: A prominent Ugandan entrepreneur.
🌍 Neighboring Cities and Countries
- Neighboring Cities: Jinja (east), Entebbe (southwest), Mbarara (southwest).
- Neighboring Countries: Kenya (east), Rwanda (southwest), Democratic Republic of Congo (west), and Tanzania (south).
💡 Insider Tips for Visiting Kampala
- Always negotiate prices: Whether you’re using boda bodas or shopping at markets, prices are often negotiable.
- Take precautions in traffic: Kampala’s traffic can be chaotic, so always allow extra time to get around.
- Stay hydrated: The tropical climate can get hot, so make sure you drink plenty of water.
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the best time to visit Kampala? The best time to visit is during the dry seasons, from December to February and June to September.
- How safe is Kampala for tourists? Kampala is generally safe for tourists, but always take common precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night.
- How do I exchange currency in Kampala? You can exchange foreign currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and hotels, or use ATMs.
- Can I use credit cards in Kampala? Yes, credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller businesses.
- What language is spoken in Kampala? While English is the official language, Luganda is widely spoken in the city.
- What should I pack for a trip to Kampala? Pack light clothes, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a rain jacket. Don’t forget insect repellent as well!
- Is Kampala a walkable city? Kampala is not very walkable due to the heavy traffic and limited pedestrian infrastructure, so it’s best to use taxis or boda bodas for getting around.
- What are the must-try foods in Kampala? You should try Rolex, Luwombo, Matoke, and Malewa (smoked bamboo shoots).