A city full of history and character
Until 1962, Entebbe was the administrative capital of Uganda during British colonial rule. You can still see this history today. The city has wide streets lined with old trees. Colonial buildings stand quietly along the roads. The atmosphere is calm and relaxed. The name “Entebbe” means “seat” in Luganda. It refers to the rocks by the lake. Long ago, local chiefs sat there to settle disputes and give justice.
Entebbe sits in a strategic place on Lake Victoria. It is also home to the international airport. Because of this, it has become the main gateway into Uganda. Even so, the city has kept its peaceful and laid-back feel. This makes it a perfect place to start your journey or to relax at the end of your safari in Uganda.
What to do in Entebbe?
Since you arrive at Entebbe International Airport, the city is the natural starting point for your trip. But Entebbe offers much more than just an airport. There is so much to see and experience here. We highly recommend that you spend a few extra days in Entebbe during your visit to Uganda. It is a great place to relax, explore, and ease into your adventure.
1. Time to acclimatize!
It is a good idea to arrive one or two days before your safari in Uganda. This gives you time to adjust to the climate and rhythm of Africa. You can also stay a few extra days after your trip to relax and enjoy all the memories you have made. In both cases, we highly recommend the Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa. The peaceful surroundings and beautiful gardens create a true oasis of calm. A standard double room, including breakfast, costs 254 for two people. Single travelers pay 228 for a room with breakfast. Of course, there are many other great places to stay in Entebbe.
2. Visit Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC)
The Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) sits on the shores of Lake Victoria in Entebbe. It is just a short distance from most hotels in Entebbe. A visit to this zoo and sanctuary is truly worth it. UWEC was founded in 1994. Its goal was to restore the old Entebbe Zoo and promote awareness about wildlife conservation in Uganda. Today, it plays a key role in protecting nature. UWEC is involved in many important activities:
- Rescuing and caring for wild animals;
- Reintroducing animals back into the wild;
- Providing veterinary services;
- Breeding endangered species from the region.
UWEC also supports scientific research. It runs education programs for the public, especially for young people.
Did you miss the rare shoebill during your trip? You still have a chance to see it here.
Cost: USD 15 per person.
UWEC also offers special activities. One of them is the Chimpanzee Close Up experience. To join, you need the following vaccinations:
- Hepatitis A (valid for 20 years);
- Hepatitis B (5 years);
- Measles (MMR – 10–15 years);
- Meningococcal meningitis (ACWY, 3 years);
- Polio (10 years);
- Tetanus (10 years).
- You must also provide a negative TB test or chest X-ray.
Keeper for a Day
Spend a full day working alongside a professional zookeeper. You will join the daily routine and experience what it is like behind the scenes. This activity can take place in different sections of the zoo. Your tasks may include preparing food, feeding the animals, and cleaning enclosures. You may also take part in simple behavioral observations. In short, you help with everything that keeps the zoo running smoothly.
Cost: USD 150 per person
Duration: Full day
Behind the Scenes
Join the zoo staff for an hour or two and explore areas not open to the public. See firsthand what it takes to run a zoo and get a unique behind-the-scenes experience.
Cost: USD 70 per person
Duration: 2 hours
Keeper for a Day
Chimpanzee Close Up
This could be Entebbe’s most unforgettable experience! On the chimpanzee island, you will get to play, interact, and even cuddle with these young chimps, who are completely comfortable around humans. Along the way, you will learn fascinating insights into their behavior and discover what makes our closest relatives so special.
Cost: USD 290 per person
Duration: 1 hour
3. Visit Entebbe Botanical Gardens
Set on the shores of Lake Victoria, Entebbe’s historic botanical gardens are a peaceful retreat. Stroll among beautiful trees and shrubs, spot two species of playful monkeys, and enjoy the songs of many birds. For a richer experience, you can hire a guide to explain the fascinating flora and wildlife along the way.
Cost: UGX 10,000 per person
4. Visit Uganda Reptile Village
Founded in 2003, the Uganda Reptile Village is your chance to meet over 20 fascinating reptile species found in Uganda. See cobras, boomslangs, skinks, monitor lizards, turtles, and even Africa’s most venomous snake, the Gaboon viper. The village also offers a unique twist, pedal boating on its serene waters, making it a fun experience for all ages.
Cost: UGX 15,000 per person
5. Shopping at the market
Entebbe is home to two lively weekly markets. On Tuesdays, head to the large Kitoro market, where you can find almost anything imaginable, from fresh produce to crafts. On Saturdays, the market in central Entebbe focuses mainly on clothing and footwear. Both markets are easy to explore on foot. Plan about 5 minutes for Kitoro and around 30 minutes for the Entebbe market to soak up the local vibe.
6. Swimming in the pool of the Lake Victoria Hotel
For a relaxing afternoon, take a dip in the swimming pool at the Lake Victoria Hotel. If you prefer an indoor option, the Imperial Beach Hotel also has a pool. Both pools are open to day visitors for a small fee.
Cost: UGX 20,000 per person
7. Take a bike ride through Entebbe
Entebbe lies in a flat, lush, and green area, perfect for a relaxing bike ride. You can explore on your own or hire a guide to show you the best routes. Just remember, in Uganda, traffic drives on the left!
Cost: Bicycle (half day) – USD 10
Guide: USD 15 per person
8. A canoe trip through Mabamba Swamp
Just outside Entebbe lies Mabamba Swamp, a large protected wetland and an extension of Lake Victoria. Covering 165 km², it is thickly overgrown with papyrus and home to many bird species, including the dwarf jacana, malachite kingfisher, and marsh flycatcher. Mabamba Swamp is also Uganda’s best spots to see the iconic shoebill stork.
Cost: USD 80 per person (includes transport, boat trip, and guide)
9. Boat trip on Lake Victoria
10. Ssese Islands
The Ssese Islands are a stunning archipelago of 84 islets in Lake Victoria, many of them tropical and uninhabited. Relax on pristine white sandy beaches, explore the natural beauty, or stay at a beautiful lodge. The most popular islands are Bulago and Buggala.
There are several excellent restaurants and coffee shops in Entebbe
- Muti for pizza in a relaxing garden setting
- Goretti’s for lake-side beach and pizza
- Gorilla Conservation Coffee for excellent locally grown coffee with a conservation benefit
- Faze 3 for Indian food and views of the lake
- CJ’s for decent, quick meals
- The Rolex Guy for delicious posh wraps
Climate and practical tips
Entebbe enjoys a mild tropical climate thanks to its location on Lake Victoria. Temperatures usually stay between 25 °C and 30 °C throughout the year. The driest months are June to September and December to February. Swimming in the lake is not recommended due to strong currents, bilharzia, and the presence of crocodiles. Entebbe is generally quiet and safe. As in any city, avoid walking alone at night and stay alert. Always drink safe water, follow recommended vaccinations, and take malaria prophylaxis.
Experience Entebbe with Choose Uganda Safaris
