25 AWESOME Things To Do In Kampala
While Kampala, Uganda is not the destination for someone looking to spot big game and other wildlife, there are a lot of things to do in Kampala for tourists and residents alike.
25 Awesome Things To Do In Kampala
1. National Museum
One of the oldest museums in East Africa, the Uganda National Museum provides an extensive look into the country’s past. At the National Museum, you will find exhibits showcasing traditional musical instruments, pre-colonial African history, ethnography, and traditional lifestyles of various tribes in Uganda.
2. Baha’i Temple
The Baha’i Mother Temple of Africa was the first and only Baha’i house of worship on the African continent until early 2021. Sitting on top of Kikaaya Hill in Kampala, this religious site offers a quiet retreat from the chaos of the city. Spend an afternoon learning about the Baha’i faith, have a picnic on the lawn, or sit in on a service during your visit.
3. Gaddafi Mosque
A gift from Colonel Muammar Gaddafi of Libya, the Gaddafi Mosque is a treat for both Muslims and non-Muslims. The tour guides can give you an in-depth history of the mosque itself and Kampala. Make sure to climb the 272 stair skyscraper for breathtaking 360° views of Kampala.
4. Mengo Palace
Also known as Lubiri and Kabaka’s Palace, Mengo Palace is the historic residence of the Buganda King (Kabaka). While you can not go inside the palace, you can view the lush grounds and get a history lesson on the Buganda Kingdom. You can also view the tunnels that Idi Amin used to incarcerate and torture political prisoners.
While on the Royal Mile stretch, you can also check out two of the world’s oldest tortoises living in Uganda.
5. Kasubi Tombs
The Kasubi Tombs are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Made of traditional organic materials, the expansive hut is a former royal burial ground for four Buganda kings (Kabakas) and members of the royal family.
The tombs are an impressive example of traditional architecture and offer another opportunity to learn about the Buganda Kingdom.
6. Uganda Martyrs’ Shrine
The Uganda Martyrs’ Shrine Namugongo is one of the largest Christian pilgrimage destinations in Africa. It is dedicated to the 22 Martyrs who were killed on the orders of the former Kabaka Mwanga II between 1885 and 1887.
On June 3 Uganda celebrates Martyrs’ Day. The national public holiday commemorates the 22 Catholic and 23 Anglican martyrs killed during that period. If you are in Kampala around this time you are likely to see thousands of people making the pilgrimage to the site.
7. Ndere Cultural Centre
Without a doubt, Ndere Cultural Centre hosts the best dance troupe in Uganda! The dance troupe showcases cultural dances and music from tribes across the country.
In addition to the music and dancing, the show sprinkles in some comedy and provides a delicious dinner buffet and barbeque for attendees. We highly encourage making a reservation if you plan to attend the show.
8. Uganda National Cultural Centre
The Uganda National Cultural Centre in Kampala houses the National Theatre and the Nommo Gallery. The Centre provides a space for performances, including a stage and cinema, as well as a gallery that exhibits local and foreign artists. Local crafts are also sold at the Centre in Craft Village.
This is a one-stop spot for shopping and entertainment.
9. Art Galleries
A visit to one of the many art galleries in Kampala is a great way to see the beauty and soul of Uganda as depicted by the talented artists here. We recommend Nommo Gallery located at the Uganda National Cultural Centre, Asante Art Gallery, AKA Gallery, Umoja Art Gallery, and Afriart Gallery.
10. Craft Markets
Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, home goods, or a new addition to your wardrobe, you will likely find it at one of the craft markets in Kampala. A visit to one of the local craft markets is also a fun way to try your hand at bargaining.
Craft Village is located behind the National Theatre at Uganda National Cultural Centre, and Exposure Africa is on Buganda Road. There is also a weekly Friday craft market on Old Kampala Road behind the Gaddafi Mosque near Fort Lugard that has items from Uganda as well as neighboring countries in East Africa.
11. Craft Making
If you want to try your hand at making crafts yourself, there are a number of local artisans in Kampala who can guide you. Umbilini offers a variety of classes and workshops, including Paint and Sip. Phionah of Fifi’s Crafts can also help you make a one-of-a-kind woven basket. Stop by Taloso Workshop for a jewelry-making workshop with locally made and imported beads.
12. Festivals and Events
There is always something to do in Kampala. Festivals and expos are often bringing people together to showcase different business, agriculture, innovation, tourism, and fashion ventures in Uganda.
Restaurants like Wild Coffee Bar, Prunes, Dancing Cup, Jazzville, and Tank Hill Park, often host events with music, farmer’s markets, craft markets, and an occasional workshop.
If you’re traveling to Kampala in August, Kampala Restaurant Week is an awesome way to eat your way through the city.
The National Theatre at the Uganda National Cultural Centre also hosts a number of performing arts events and workshops from film and poetry to music and dancing.
13. Walking Tour
If you want to see all of the major sites in Kampala in one go and need a little guidance, Kampala Walking Tours is a great choice. Their walking tour stops at the most well-known attractions in Kampala which will leave you feeling like a local, especially after making your way through the markets and old taxi park.
If you’re wanting to get a taste of the famous Kampala nightlife, Kampala Walking Tours also organizes a pub crawl and can show you how to party like a local until morning.
14. Boda Boda Tour
Want to feel even more like a local? Hop on a local motorcycle and weave your way in and out of the most popular sites in Kampala. Friendly Gorillas Safaris can safely show you the best of the city without having to break a sweat.
15. Social Innovations Museum
Uganda is a hotspot for entrepreneurs. At Social Innovations Academy they have created a space for marginalized youth to explore and find creative solutions to the education, employment, and other social problems facing them.
If you want a change of Kampala scenery and a chance to engage with the young social entrepreneurs and see their projects, we recommend checking out the Social Innovations Museum.
16. Dr. Emma’s Farm
Dr. Emma Naluyima is an international, award-winning farmer. In addition to her roles as a veterinarian, educator, wife, and mother, this brilliant woman has turned one acre of land into a profitable, zero waste, circular food systems farm.
We loved touring the farm and learning about Dr. Emma’s innovative work. A word of advice–don’t be late!
17. Griffin Falls Camp
While it’s not technically in Kampala, a trip to Griffin Falls Camp in Mabira Forest is a worthy city escape. At Griffin Falls camp you can zipline your way through the forest, take a leisurely stroll, or an adventurous hike. Keep an eye out for birds, butterflies, and Mangabey monkeys as you make your way to beautiful Griffin Falls. The Camp also offers archery, environmental education, and team-building activities.
If one afternoon isn’t enough at Griffin Falls Camp, you can arrange a stay in their bandas or go camping.
18. Extreme Adventure Park
Again, not technically in Kampala, but Extreme Adventure Park is a must-visit if you are looking for a high-energy day with friends and family. Extreme Adventure Park offers activities like ziplining, paintball, quad bikes, and low and high ropes courses. There is also a bungee trampoline, swimming pool, and an opportunity for team-building activities.
If you can’t fit all of the fun into one day, accommodation and camping are available at Extreme Adventure Park.
19. Kapeeka Shooting Range
It is often a shock to see security guards with AK-47s at many business entrances when traveling to Uganda for the first time. If you’d like to try your hand at shooting one yourself we recommend visiting Kapeeka Shooting Range, also called the China Uganda Exchange Club Shooting Range.
You can extend your time at the Club by also taking advantage of their quad bikes and horseback riding activities.
20. Latin Dancing
Latin dancing is probably not the first thing you think of when you hear Uganda, but Kampala has a thriving Latin dance scene. Beyond Latin Vibes is a professional dance studio in Kampala that teaches Afro-Latin dance classes. They also host a number of Afro-Latin events around Kampala.
If you don’t have a dance partner or have no experience, no worries! The Beyond Latin Vibes team will have you paired up and dancing with confidence by the end of the night.
21. Football
Watching football, or soccer for some of the Western travelers is a great way to socialize in Kampala. Check out the Uganda Cranes or a local football club at Namboole/Nelson Mandela National Stadium, St. Mary’s Stadium, Lugogo Stadium Complex, or the MTN Omondi Stadium.
If you’re more of a rugby fan, we recommend making a visit to the Kyadondo Rugby Club or Legends Rugby Club.
Want to cheer on a football or rugby team with a local?
22. Chocolate Tour
Have you ever wondered how chocolate was made? If you’re looking for a unique and fun activity, make your way to Moonbean Chocolate in Kampala.
While most of their cocoa trees are located in Western Uganda, you can see some trees at their workshop and get an in-depth look at the chocolate-making process from bean to bar. You can even make a chocolate bar yourself and browse for other chocolate and Ugandan-made products in their shop.
23. Local Cooking
We feel that sharing food is one of the best ways to learn about a culture and get to know people. If you’re in Kampala and want to experience shopping at the market and preparing a local meal, then check out Immersion Uganda. You can try your hand at making matooke, mingling posho, or frying fresh-caught Tilapia.
24. Owino Market
Owino Market is the busiest market in Kampala. As a first-time visitor to Owino, you may find the market chaotic and overwhelming as you make your way through the maze of stalls.
Despite its appearance, there is some order and organization to Owino. If you don’t mind the sensory overload, this is a great place to find the best deals on clothes and household items. You should be prepared to barter and haggle for the best price though.
25. Kampala Casino
There are a few options if you’re looking to gamble in Kampala. You can try your luck at Casino Simba, Caesars Palace Casino, Empire Casino, The Imperial Casino, Casino Rigel, or Star Casino and Hotel.
We recommend Mayfair Casino and Club for those looking for a casino in Kampala. The casino has eight roulette and card tables, as well as two more roulette and card tables in the private area in the back. Mayfair also has 25 slot and video machines.
Not only is Mayfair Casino run by an experienced international group, but there is complimentary food and drinks for all players! They also have an Italian restaurant, Il Patio, on the roof with excellent food for both casino and outside guests.
Where Is Kampala Located?
Located in the central region of Uganda, Kampala sits just north of Lake Victoria between the major cities of Entebbe and Jinja.
Kampala is approximately 45 kilometers from Entebbe International Airport. It is difficult to say how long the travel time will take because it entirely depends on traffic. On a good day though, this journey should take an hour.
How Big Is Kampala, Uganda?
The capital city of Kampala is 189 km² or 73 square miles. The larger metropolitan area of Kampala is approximately 8,450 km² or 3,263 square miles.
Kampala originally spanned across seven different hills–Kasubi, Mengo, Kibuli, Namirembe, Lubaga, Nsambya, and Kampala. The city has grown and expanded its boundaries to include other notable hills like Tank, Mulago, and Nakasero.
Today Kampala is known for more than its landscape. This major city is a hub for business, a buzzing nightlife scene, and vibrant culture.
What Is Kampala’s Population?
Because Kampala is the capital and main center for business and commercial, diplomatic, and government offices, there is a large population. The city’s population is 1,680,000. If you include the larger metropolitan area, Kampala’s population reaches over 6,700,000.
Is Kampala Safe?
Kampala is one of the safest big cities in East Africa.
Does crime still happen? Yes, but most of it can be avoided.
Keep a watchful eye on your bag while traveling or sitting at a restaurant. Put your phones and valuables away while dining out, walking, and while in cars or on boda bodas. These two things can help you to avoid petty thieves and snatch and grabs.
What Language Is Spoken In Kampala?
English is one of the official languages of Uganda. It is widely spoken and understood in Kampala, especially in larger businesses, restaurants, hotels, and tourist areas.
Luganda is the local language spoken in Kampala. It’s not expected that you should speak Luganda while in Kampala, but if you’re planning to engage with people while using public transportation or visiting the craft markets, learning a few greetings or phrases could be helpful.
What Is The Weather In Kampala, Uganda?
Kampala has a tropical climate meaning that it has high temperatures throughout the year and generally high humidity and precipitation.
The wet seasons in Kampala fall between March to April and October to November. There is an average of 18-20 rainy days during these months. Temperatures during the day average around 21.5°C/70°F.
The dry season runs from June to August and January to February. Although it is dry season, there is an average of 14 rainy days during these months. January and February are the warmest months of the year with temperatures averaging 22.4 ° C/72 ° F. June to August are the coolest months of the year with an average of 20.8°C/69°F.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Kampala?
Because the weather in Kampala, Uganda stays relatively consistent all year round, there is no bad time to visit.
If you plan to visit Uganda you will likely pass through Kampala, if only briefly. We hope that you will visit some of the sights around the city and enjoy the culture in Kampala.
Where To Visit Next?
Kampala is the logistic center for most things in Uganda. This means it is very easy to begin a new journey by grabbing the next departing bus or taxi out of the capital.
For a quick visit close to Kampala, check out Jinja or Entebbe. Both cities have opportunities to have fun and relax for a day or escape for the weekend.
If you’re looking to venture out of the central region and explore other parts of Uganda, head north to check out Gulu and Kidepo Valley National Park, east to explore Sipi Falls, or west to visit Lake Bunyonyi.
The Wrap-Up: 25 Things To Do In Kampala
Kampala may not be your intended destination when traveling to Uganda, but it is likely you will pass through or spend a night there during your trip.
Take advantage of an organized city tour or use our guide to help you explore some of the awesome things Kampala has to offer!