Kampala Is A special city with many faces
Kampala is a city that grows and changes every day. New neighborhoods continue to develop, and unlike many capitals, Kampala does not have one single city center. Instead, each area has its own character, facilities, and restaurants. So, it’s best not to visit Kampala expecting a classic city center with grand buildings and café terraces. You visit Kampala to experience Uganda as it truly is, in all its complexity. While many Ugandans live in rural areas, the capital offers a wider view of the country.
On one side, Kampala feels modern and familiar, with cinemas, restaurants, and comfortable lifestyles similar to those in Europe. On the other side, you see the daily reality of people working hard just to earn a small income. This contrast is what makes Kampala so powerful and memorable. It is a city of opportunity and struggle, tradition and change—truly a unique place with many faces.
There is plenty of Things to do in Kampala
Kampala is the perfect city for a day trip. You can see most things in 24 hours. The following activities should definitely be on your list:
1. Kabaka's Palace
Kabaka’s Palace is the historic residence of the King of the Buganda Kingdom—one of Uganda’s most important and influential kingdoms, which is still active today. A visit here offers deep insight into the history, culture, and political heritage of Kampala and Uganda. If you want to better understand the country’s past and its continuing traditions, Kabaka’s Palace is an essential stop.
2. Uganda National Mosque
The Uganda National Mosque is the largest mosque in East Africa and is located in one of the oldest parts of Kampala. One of the highlights of a visit is climbing the minaret. From the top, you are rewarded with a stunning 360-degree view over the entire city. It’s one of the best places to see how Kampala is laid out and how its neighborhoods and roads connect.
3. Markets
A visit to Kampala is not complete without exploring its markets. The fruit market is one of our favorites, overflowing with fresh produce in quantities and varieties you may have never seen before. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a fresh snack while soaking up the atmosphere. If you’re not ready to dive into local cuisine, there are also excellent Western food options nearby. Your guide will always know the best places to stop, so you can enjoy the experience comfortably and safely.
There are many more worthwhile places to visit in and around Kampala. The Baha’i Temple, for example, offers a peaceful escape with beautiful views over the city. Another important site is the Kasubi Tombs, the burial place of former kings of the Buganda Kingdom, which have recently been restored and reopened to visitors. From Kampala, you can also visit Lake Victoria. A trip to Ggaba Beach lets you see fishermen arriving by boat and experience the lively trading along the shore. Kampala truly has something for everyone. No matter your interests, it’s easy to fill a full day exploring the city. And after a busy day, your guide will take you back to your comfortable and quiet accommodation, where you can relax and unwind.
You go on a Kampala city tour with a guide
Kampala is a large and lively city, and it can feel overwhelming at first. That’s why exploring it with a local guide is highly recommended. A guide enriches your experience by explaining how the city developed and how people live today. They add meaning and context to everything you see, helping you truly understand what’s happening around you. Most importantly, they make sure you feel comfortable and at ease.
You will quickly notice that visitors are warmly welcomed in Kampala. Getting around is easy, and if you are feeling adventurous, you can even explore parts of the city on the back of a motorbike taxi, known locally as a bodaboda. If you prefer more comfort, you can travel by car and explore the neighborhoods on foot together with your guide. Either way, discovering Kampala with a guide makes the experience richer, safer, and far more enjoyable.
At the beginning or the end of your journey?
You can visit Kampala either at the beginning or at the end of your trip to Uganda. Personally, we recommend starting in Kampala—experiencing the energy of the bustling city first, followed by the peace and greenery of the countryside and national parks. However, ending your journey in Kampala works just as well. Both options have their own charm, and it simply depends on what kind of travel rhythm you prefer.