Tours leaving from Kampala on Jul 2, 2026

Kampala, the capital and largest city of Uganda, was once known as the city of seven hills but now spans over 20 hills.

Often visited as a gateway to Gorilla Trekking Safaris, Kampala is renowned for its lush greenery, with parks, gardens, and recreational areas scattered throughout the city. Known as one of the greenest cities in Africa, Kampala offers visitors a pleasant atmosphere with warm-hearted locals.

Its vibrant culture combines with a range of attractions to make Kampala an inviting and enjoyable travel destination. 

Getting to Kampala

Kampala is accessed via Entebbe International Airport (EBB), which is located about 46 km (29 miles) from the city.

Most travellers pre-arrange airport transfers or include them in their Uganda safari packages. Entebbe International Airport has separate terminals for domestic and international flights, and taxis or car rentals are readily available.

View our Kampala Safari Tours that start, visit or end in the city and take you gorilla trekking in Uganda.

Kampala Safari Accommodation

A Kampala safari provides a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences.

Acacia Avenue is a popular spot for expats and tourists, known for its safety and vibrant nightlife. It’s ideal for first-timers with plenty of nearby amenities. Ntinda is slightly more upscale with a mix of local charm and modern conveniences like malls and restaurants, while Bukoto offers a more local experience with street food and small shops. Lugogo balances proximity to the city with access to amenities like Lugogo Mall. For a quieter stay, Munyonyo and Port Bell offer lakeside resorts, perfect for relaxing after a busy safari or gorilla trek.

For help finding your ideal accommodation in Kampala, contact African Budget Safaris.

Things to Do in Kampala - Activities & Attractions

The Best Things to Do in Kampala

• Ndere Centre – A cultural hub showcasing traditional Ugandan music, dance, and storytelling.
• Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – A conservation area where you can track white rhinos in their natural habitat.
• Gaddafi National Mosque – Uganda's largest mosque, offering panoramic views of Kampala from its minaret.
• Namirembe Cathedral – The oldest Anglican cathedral in Uganda, known for its stunning architecture and hilltop location.
• Namugongo Shrine – A revered pilgrimage site commemorating the Uganda Martyrs.
• Forest Park Resort – A recreational escape with adventure activities in a forested setting.
• Rubaga Cathedral – A majestic Catholic cathedral with a rich history.
• Lubiri Palace – The royal palace of the Buganda Kingdom, rich in history and cultural significance.
• Kasubi Tombs – A UNESCO World Heritage site and burial grounds of Buganda kings.
• Uganda Museum – The oldest museum in East Africa, showcasing Uganda's cultural heritage.
• Independence Monument – A symbol of Uganda’s freedom, located in central Kampala.
• Batwa Cultural Heritage Centre – A place to learn about the Batwa people’s history and traditions.

The Best Attractions Near Kampala

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for Uganda gorilla trekking
• Kibale Forest National Park for one of the highest concentrations of primates anywhere in Africa
• Visit the Victoria Nile in Murchison Falls National Park
• Explore the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, a haven for rescued chimpanzees.
• Lake Bunyonyi is a scenic crater lake known as the 'place of many little birds'.
• See tree-climbing lions at Queen Elizabeth National Park.
• Jinja, is the adventure capital of East Africa. 

Discover more things to do in this part of Africa in The Best Things to Do in Uganda including gorilla trekking.

Is Kampala Safe?

Kampala is generally considered to be safe for tourists, but it’s important to stay alert.

While Uganda is politically stable and safaris are safe when booked through reputable operators, there are certain precautions to follow. Tourists should avoid unsafe areas, stick to well-travelled routes, and refrain from displaying valuables like cameras or jewellery. Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag-snatching are common but rarely violent. There have been reports of assaults targeting women who use the Boda Boda motorcycle taxis. It's advised to stay in tourist areas and avoid going out after dark.

Checking your country's travel advisories for updated information is always recommended.  

More about visiting Uganda's capital in our free Kampala Safari Guide.