· UG

Kampala

Kampala, Kampala, Uganda

Kampala: Where Vibrant Culture Meets Urban Adventure Nestled amidst rolling hills and overlooking the glistening shores of Lake Victoria, Kampala is a city that pulsates with energy. More than just Uganda's capital, it's…

#Capital City#Commercial Hub#Cultural Center#Historic Landmarks#Vibrant Nightlife

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kampala.

Top Hotels in Kampala

Top Flights to Kampala

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kampala.

Tours

Explore the Historical Landmarks of Kampala

Discover the rich history of Kampala with visits to iconic landmarks such as the Kasubi Tombs and the Uganda National Museum.

Cultural Experience at Ndere Centre

Immerse yourself in Uganda's diverse cultures with live performances by traditional dance troupes at Ndere Centre.

Shopping

Shopping Spree at Acacia Mall

Experience the vibrant shopping scene at Acacia Mall, offering a wide range of local and international brands.

Outdoor

Nature Walk at Mabira Forest

Enjoy a refreshing walk in Mabira Forest, one of Uganda's largest surviving natural forests.

Bird Watching at Entebbe Botanical Gardens

Explore diverse bird species at Entebbe Botanical Gardens, a paradise for bird watchers.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kampala.

Currency

UGX | Ugandan Shilling | Ugandan Shilling

Population

2.0 million

Languages

English, Ganda, Luganda, Swahili

Average weather

Kampala

Jan

28°17°

Feb

28°17°

Mar

27°17°

Apr

26°17°

May

25°17°

Jun

25°16°

Jul

25°15°

Aug

26°15°

Sep

27°16°

Oct

27°17°

Nov

26°17°

Dec

27°17°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kampala.

What people love

Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, offers a unique travel experience with several advantages. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Kampala:

Vibrant Culture: Kampala is a melting pot of various cultures, languages, and traditions. Travelers can immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture through traditional dance performances, art galleries, markets, and cultural events.
Friendly Locals: Ugandans are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards visitors. Travelers to Kampala can expect to be welcomed with open arms and engage in meaningful interactions with the locals.
Beautiful Scenery: Kampala is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including lush green hills, serene lakes, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, nature walks, and wildlife safaris in and around Kampala.
Historical Sites: Kampala has a rich history dating back to the pre-colonial era. Travelers can explore historical sites such as the Kasubi Tombs, Uganda Museum, and the Buganda Kingdom Palace to learn about the city's past.
Delicious Cuisine: Kampala offers a variety of culinary delights, including traditional Ugandan dishes like matoke (cooked plantains), luwombo (steamed meat stew), and rolex (chapati rolled with eggs). Visitors can also sample international cuisine at restaurants and cafes in the city.
Shopping Opportunities: Kampala is home to bustling markets and shopping centers where travelers can purchase unique souvenirs, handicrafts, clothing, and local produce. Popular shopping spots include Owino Market, Nakasero Market, and Acacia Mall.
Outdoor Activities: Travelers looking for adventure can engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, cycling, and water sports in and around Kampala. The city's proximity to national parks like Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth offers opportunities for safari experiences.

Overall, traveling to Kampala provides a diverse and enriching experience for visitors looking to explore the cultural, natural, and historical attractions of Uganda's capital city.

What to know

Traveling to Kampala, Uganda, like any destination, has its potential drawbacks. Some of the cons of traveling to Kampala may include:

Safety concerns: Kampala, like any major city, has its share of crime and safety issues. Travelers should be vigilant, especially in crowded areas and at night, to avoid pickpocketing and other petty crimes.
Traffic congestion: Kampala is known for its heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Getting around the city can be time-consuming and frustrating, so travelers should plan their itineraries accordingly.
Air pollution: Kampala's air quality is often poor due to vehicle emissions and industrial activities. Travelers with respiratory issues may experience discomfort or exacerbation of their symptoms while in the city.
Limited infrastructure: While Kampala is a bustling city, its infrastructure may not be as developed as in some Western countries. This can lead to challenges such as unreliable public transportation, intermittent power outages, and limited access to clean water.
Health risks: Like many tropical destinations, Kampala has a higher risk of certain diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and typhoid. Travelers should take necessary precautions, such as getting vaccinated and using insect repellent, to protect their health.

It's important to note that these cons are not meant to deter travelers from visiting Kampala, but rather to provide a realistic view of what to expect and prepare for. It's always a good idea to research the destination thoroughly and take appropriate precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Kampala, the capital and largest city of Uganda, has a rich history that dates back to the pre-colonial era. Here is a detailed history of Kampala, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks.

Pre-Colonial Period

Buganda Kingdom: Before the advent of colonial rule, the area that is now Kampala was part of the Buganda Kingdom, one of several prominent kingdoms in the region. It was primarily a hunting ground for the Kabaka (King) of Buganda, with the area being characterized by rolling hills and wetlands.

Colonial Era

British Protectorate: In the late 19th century, the British Empire began to establish control over the region. In 1890, Captain Frederick Lugard, a British colonial administrator, established a fort on Old Kampala Hill. This hill became the center of British administrative activities.
Growth as a Town: Kampala gradually grew around this fort, and by 1905, it was declared a township. Its growth was partly due to its strategic location near Lake Victoria and the presence of key colonial infrastructure.

Post-Independence Period

Independence: Uganda gained independence from British colonial rule on October 9, 1962. Kampala was retained as the capital city.
Milton Obote and Idi Amin: The city saw significant political turmoil during the regimes of Milton Obote and Idi Amin. Idi Amin's rule, in particular, was marked by widespread human rights abuses and economic decline.
1986 and Beyond: Yoweri Museveni's National Resistance Army captured Kampala in 1986, ending years of civil war and instability. This marked the beginning of a relatively stable era, with efforts to rebuild and develop the city.

Significant Events

Buganda Riots (1945 and 1949): These riots were significant in the struggle for independence and highlighted the tensions between the colonial government and the Buganda Kingdom.
Terrorist Attacks: Kampala has experienced terrorist attacks, most notably the July 2010 bombings by the Somali militant group Al-Shabaab, which targeted crowds watching the World Cup final, killing dozens.

Historical Landmarks

Kasubi Tombs: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kasubi Tombs are the burial site for the kings of Buganda. They are a significant cultural and spiritual site for the Baganda people.
Uganda Museum: Established in 1908, the Uganda Museum is one of the oldest museums in East Africa, showcasing Uganda's cultural heritage and history.
Namirembe and Rubaga Cathedrals: These are the seats of the Anglican and Roman Catholic archbishops, respectively. They are important religious and architectural landmarks in the city.
Independence Monument: Located in the heart of Kampala, this monument commemorates Uganda's independence from British rule in 1962.

Notable Figures

Kabaka Mutesa I: The Kabaka of Buganda during the time of initial British contact, known for his efforts to modernize the kingdom.
Idi Amin: The military dictator who ruled Uganda from 1971 to 1979, his regime had a significant impact on Kampala and the country as a whole.
Yoweri Museveni: The current president who has been in power since 1986, under whose leadership Kampala has seen considerable development.

Modern Kampala

Today, Kampala is a bustling metropolis, known for its vibrant culture, economic activity, and as the political center of Uganda. It faces challenges typical of rapidly growing cities, such as traffic congestion and urban planning issues, but remains a key hub in East Africa.