Kampala may not be the first stop on every traveler’s African itinerary, but for those who take the time to explore it, the city offers an unforgettable mix of culture, history, food, and everyday life. As the capital of Uganda, Kampala is a lively, ever-evolving city built on rolling hills, buzzing with motorbikes, music, and warm hospitality. From centuries-old traditions to modern art and nightlife, it’s a city that refuses to be overlooked.
To truly understand Kampala, you need a local’s perspective, and that’s where Vibrant Holiday Safaris comes in. Our Kampala City Tours are crafted to go beyond the surface, taking you through neighborhoods, stories, and experiences you’d likely miss on your own. From navigating markets and visiting hidden cultural gems to understanding the political and spiritual layers of the city, we make sure your time in Kampala is not just a visit, but a connection. If you’re planning to spend a few days in the capital, here’s a guide to some of the top things to do in Kampala.
Visit the Uganda Museum
Start your tour at the Uganda Museum, the oldest in East Africa, founded in 1908. It houses an impressive collection of ethnological, historical, and archaeological artifacts. You’ll find everything from traditional musical instruments and hunting tools to displays about the country’s early kingdoms and colonial past. It’s the best place to ground your understanding of Uganda’s diverse culture and rich heritage before diving into the city itself.
Explore Owino and Nakasero Markets
No visit to Kampala is complete without a walk through its bustling markets. Owino Market, also called St. Balikuddembe Market, is a maze of tightly packed stalls selling everything from second-hand clothes to electronics. It’s chaotic, colorful, and full of energy. For adventurous shoppers, it’s a treasure trove just bring your bargaining skills and keep an eye on your belongings.
For a calmer, more organized market experience, head to Nakasero Market, where you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and handmade crafts. It’s ideal for picking up souvenirs and getting a taste of local flavors. Both markets offer an authentic slice of Kampala life, and with Vibrant Holiday Safaris guiding you, you’ll get the best prices and stories behind the goods.
Climb the Minaret at Gaddafi National Mosque
One of the largest mosques in Africa, the Gaddafi National Mosque towers over Old Kampala Hill. Built as a gift from the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, this stunning mosque is open to non-Muslims outside prayer times. After covering up in the provided robes, you can tour the mosque’s beautiful interior, learn about Islam in Uganda, and climb the 300-step minaret. At the top, you’re rewarded with 360-degree views of Kampala, from the original seven hills to the growing sprawl beyond.
Reflect at the Uganda Martyrs Shrine, Namugongo
Located about 8 miles from the city center, the Namugongo Martyrs Shrine is a deeply moving religious site. It commemorates the 45 Ugandan Christian martyrs who were executed for their faith in the late 1800s. The basilica, built on the site where many were burned alive, features powerful symbolism and serene surroundings. It’s especially lively on June 3rd Martyrs Day, when pilgrims from across Africa gather here. Even outside that time, it’s a peaceful place for reflection, and the elevated location offers scenic views of the area.
Tour the Kasubi Tombs
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kasubi Tombs are the burial grounds of four Buganda kings and a sacred cultural site. The tombs represent traditional Ganda architecture and are an important symbol of Uganda’s pre-colonial history. Guided tours offer insight into the Buganda Kingdom’s customs, royal lineage, and the significance of the site in Uganda’s cultural identity. After suffering fire damage in 2010, restoration efforts are ongoing, but the site remains a vital part of any cultural tour.
Wander the Baha’i Temple Grounds
The Baha’i House of Worship in Kampala is the only one of its kind in Africa. Located on Kikaya Hill, it offers a quiet, peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle. The nine-sided temple sits surrounded by lush gardens, tall trees, and walking paths. It’s open to all, regardless of faith, and free to enter. Guides are often available to explain the Baha’i Faith, which promotes unity and peace among all people. Even if you’re not religious, the view and tranquility make this a worthwhile stop.
Relax at Constitution Square and the Independence Monument
In the heart of the city, you’ll find Constitution Square, a public park that once served as a ceremonial ground during the colonial era. Nearby is the striking Independence Monument, which depicts a man unwrapping himself from bondage symbolizing Uganda’s liberation from British rule in 1962. It’s a powerful visual and a peaceful area to sit, reflect, or people-watch in the middle of downtown Kampala.
Explore Kampala Hills (Namirembe, Rubaga, and Kololo)
Kampala’s original seven hills still carry cultural and spiritual importance. Among the most notable are; Namirembe Hill, home to Namirembe Cathedral, the oldest Anglican cathedral in Uganda. Its red-brick facade and hilltop location offer beautiful views and a quiet place for reflection, Rubaga Hill, where you’ll find Rubaga Cathedral, the seat of the Roman Catholic Church in Uganda. Its twin towers and sweeping staircases make it a photogenic and serene spot and Kololo Hill, now a posh residential area and home to diplomatic residences, Kololo is also where you’ll find the Kololo Independence Grounds, often used for national events and festivals.
Discover Kampala’s Nightlife and Culinary Scene
When the sun goes down, Kampala comes alive. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, from laid-back lounges and rooftop bars to energetic nightclubs and live music joints. Head to areas like Kabalagala, Kololo, or Bugolobi for a night out. Reggae, Afro beat, and Ugandan pop fill the air, and locals are quick to invite you to dance.
Food-wise, Kampala is a fusion of local and international cuisine. Try Ugandan street food like Rolex (a rolled chapatti with eggs and vegetables), grilled meat (nyama choma), and matooke (steamed green bananas). For a sit-down meal, you’ll find everything from Indian to Italian to Ethiopian, often with a Ugandan twist.
How to get to Kampala.
To get to Kampala, most international travelers fly into Entebbe International Airport, located about 40 kilometers from the city. From the airport, you can reach Kampala by taxi, airport shuttle, or ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt. The drive typically takes 1 to 2 hours depending on traffic. Many hotels also offer private airport transfers for convenience.
If you’re traveling by road from neighboring countries, buses and private vehicles are common options. From Nairobi, buses like Modern Coast and Mash Poa take about 12 to 15 hours via the Malaba or Busia border. From Kigali, you can expect a 9 to 12-hour trip by bus or car through the Katuna border. Travel is also possible from towns within Uganda using buses, shared taxis, or private cars, though traffic around Kampala can be heavy.
What is the best time to visit Kampala?
The best time to visit Kampala is during the dry seasons in the months of December to February and June to August. During these months, the weather is warm and relatively dry, making it ideal for exploring the city, taking day trips to nearby attractions like Lake Victoria or the Mabira Forest, and enjoying outdoor events. Kampala has a tropical climate, so temperatures are fairly consistent year-round, but the rainy seasons (March–May and September–November) can bring heavy showers and muddy roads, which might disrupt travel plans.
If you want fewer crowds and lower travel costs, consider visiting at the edges of the dry season late November or early March when the weather is still decent but there are fewer tourists.
Kampala is more than a stopover, it’s a destination in its own right. It’s a city of resilience, rhythm, and remarkable stories. Whether you’re climbing a mosque minaret, exploring royal tombs, or dancing to live music under the stars, Kampala has something that stays with you. Let our team at Vibrant Holiday Safaris show you the real Kampala, its soul, its color, its people.