Capital city
Kampala
Uganda's capital of hills, markets, faith and nightlife.
- Central Uganda
- Best: Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb
Overview
- Status
- Capital city
- From Entebbe airport
- About 40 km
- Known for
- Hills, markets, culture, nightlife
Kampala spreads across green hills on the northern side of Lake Victoria. It grew around the seat of the Kabaka of Buganda at Mengo and became Uganda's capital at independence in 1962.
Many of its hills carry landmarks: the Uganda National Mosque on Old Kampala hill, Rubaga and Namirembe cathedrals, the Kabaka's Palace and the Bulange parliament of Buganda. The Kasubi Tombs and Namugongo shrine are a short drive away.
Markets, street food, galleries, live music and nightlife make the city worth a couple of days before or after a safari.
- Uganda National Mosque
Climb the minaret for a view over the city's hills.
- Buganda heritage
The Kabaka's Palace, Bulange and the Kasubi Tombs.
- Markets and food
Busy downtown markets and a Rolex (chapati roll) on the street.
Things to do
- City and heritage tours
Mosques, cathedrals and royal sites.
- Uganda Museum
History and ethnography collections.
- Cultural performances
Traditional music and dance evenings.
- Food and nightlife
Restaurants, bars and live music.
When to go
A year-round city; heavy afternoon showers are common in the rainy months.
- Jan: Best
- Feb: Best
- Mar: Good
- Apr: Good
- May: Good
- Jun: Best
- Jul: Best
- Aug: Best
- Sep: Best
- Oct: Good
- Nov: Good
- Dec: Best
Costs
Most landmarks charge a small entry or guide fee at the gate, set by each site.
Getting there
- By roadFrom Entebbe International AirportAbout 45 minutes – 1½ hours
Via the Kampala–Entebbe Expressway (toll) or the old Entebbe road.
Open larger map Directions Marker shows an approximate location.
UTB licensed
Where to stay near Kampala
Photos
Know before you go
- Traffic is heavy at rush hour; allow extra time.
- Use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps at night.
- Dress modestly at religious sites.
Frequently asked questions
How many days should I spend in Kampala?
One or two days covers the main landmarks, a market and a cultural evening.
What is a Rolex?
Uganda's favourite street food: an omelette rolled in a chapati.
Sources
Checked on 23 October 2026. Fees and rules change; confirm with the authority or your operator before you pay.
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Places to pair with Kampala
Heritage site
Pilgrimage site
Lakeside town
City destinationEastern Uganda
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Where the Nile leaves Lake Victoria, and Uganda's adventure capital.