Things to do in Kampala: the local short list

Built on seven hills around Lake Victoria: markets, music, and the friendliest nightlife in East Africa.

Photo coming — Kasubi Tombs

Kasubi Tombs

UNESCO · ticketed

Royal tombs of Buganda kings; guided visits.

Photo coming — Uganda Museum

Uganda Museum

Kitante · ticketed

Ethnography and natural history.

Photo coming — Bahá'í Temple

Bahá'í Temple

Kikaya Hill · free

Gardens and panoramic views.

Photo coming — Owino & Nakasero Markets

Owino & Nakasero Markets

downtown · free entry

Textiles, produce, street food; go with a local.

Photo coming — Ndere Cultural Centre

Ndere Cultural Centre

Bukoto · ticketed

Traditional dance, music and buffet.

Photo coming — Gaddafi National Mosque

Gaddafi National Mosque

Old Kampala · small fee

Climb the minaret for the seven-hills view.

Photo coming — Lake Victoria (Ggaba)

Lake Victoria (Ggaba)

south · free

Lakeside fish restaurants at sunset.

Photo coming — Acacia Avenue nightlife

Acacia Avenue nightlife

Kololo

Bars and live music; Kampala's famous night out.

Planning the trip?

Primary airport: Entebbe EBB, ~40 km southwest (~1-1.5 hr by road). Airport taxis and hotel shuttles; the expressway cut times. Fly into Entebbe International Airport (EBB) — see the Entebbe International Airport airport guide for terminals, real transport prices and layover itineraries.

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Good to know

What airport serves Kampala?

Entebbe International Airport. Primary airport: Entebbe EBB, ~40 km southwest (~1-1.5 hr by road). Airport taxis and hotel shuttles; the expressway cut times.

What is Kampala known for?

Built on seven hills around Lake Victoria: markets, music, and the friendliest nightlife in East Africa.

What sport does Kampala live for?

Football is the passion: KCCA vs SC Villa is the Kampala derby. Football dominates: KCCA FC and SC Villa at the MTN Omondi Stadium; the Uganda Cranes at Namboole. Rugby and motorsport have strong followings; the Kampala Hash runs are legendary.

When is the best time to visit Kampala?

Check the festival calendar above — timing a trip around the town's big festivals is the insider move.

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