Known as the “Pearl of Africa,” Kampala is the heartland of the Buganda Kingdom. From palaces to temples, to architectural masterpieces, there is so much to see and do in this vibrant city. Explore the streets and you’ll find a number of theatres, specialty restaurants, and exciting activities to enrich your stay here in Africa. It’s also the start and endpoint for some of the most magical tours in the world. If you’re planning a visit, here’s everything you need to know about Kampala, the Capital of Uganda.
Best Time To Visit
If you’re looking for ideal weather, the best time to visit Kampala is between May and September, as well as December to February with average temperatures in the low 20s. However, Kampala generally has nice temperatures all throughout the year with low precipitation and humidity. This also makes for the perfect game viewing in the national parks, as animals concentrate around the local bodies of water.
What Not To Miss
Mengo Palace
Mengo Palace is the former home to the King of Buganda. It was constructed in 1885 and is still an important political and religious building. The interior cannot be visited, but the underground prison operates daily tours that are worth checking out.
National Theatre
If you’re a lover of the arts, the National Theatre won’t disappoint. Here, you’ll find free nightly outdoor events, open-stage jams, African drumming, and other music, film, dance, and drama performances.
Kasubi Tombs
These burial grounds are the resting place of the four kabakas (kings of Buganda) and members of the royal family. Due to a fire in 2010, some of the major buildings were destroyed; however, there is still much to see and explore here.
Muyenga
This upscale neighbourhood of Kampala is a great place to walk around. It has beautiful views of the city to the north and of Lake Victoria to the south. There are also lots of excellent restaurants to dine here.
Lake Victoria
To the south in Kampala, you can see the world’s largest tropical lake and second-largest freshwater lake by surface area after Lake Superior. You may even get to see some of the mammals or reptiles that regularly stop here for a drink, like the hippos, otters, African helmeted turtles or Nile crocodiles.
St. Balikuddembe Market (Owino Market)
Head to the centre of the business district of Kampala City and you’ll find a giant market with tens of thousands of vendors selling everything from food, to textiles, to crafts, to shoes, to electronics and more. It’s in fact, the biggest open market in Uganda and possibly even in Africa.
Best Ways To Experience The Area
Kampala Walking Tours
There are also a number of excellent walking tours available in the city. You’ll get to explore the surroundings and see all the interesting places that Kampala has to offer. It’s a great way to dig in and experience African city life.
Bushman’s Uganda Deluxe Safari
Some of the world’s most amazing tours depart from Kampala which is why it’s a popular hot spot for tourists. This area’s star attraction is, of course, the Mountain Gorillas, and if you want to see one up close, the Uganda Deluxe Safari is the way to go. You’ll get up close and personal with gorillas, chimpanzees, and other exotic species in their natural habitat. In 11 days and 10 nights, you’ll get to see some of the most spectacular and breathtaking sites in the world. Highlights include the Murchison Falls National Park, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Kibale Forest National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and the Entebbe.
Bushman Safari’s Adventure Capital Tour
If you love adventure, this tour will get your blood pumping. Enjoy three days and two nights in Jinja, Uganda’s adventure capital just outside Kampala. You’ll ride the rapids, enjoy nature walks, bungee jump, and even zipline your way through Africa.
Bushman Safari’s Grand Gorilla Tour
If you’re here only for a short time and want to see the mountain gorillas in the Bwindi Forest, then this quick tour is the best one to take. On this three-day, two-night safari tour, you’ll get to enjoy an immersive and unforgettable experience dedicated to the mountain gorillas.
Kampala Pub Crawl
When you’re looking for a fun night out in Kampala, try the local pub crawl to check out some of the coolest bars and hot spots around the city. You’ll get to party like a local, learn new dance moves and drink local beer.
Kampala is a unique destination not to miss. It’s rich in culture, entertainment, and beauty. It’s also the first and last stop on some of the world’s most exciting tours. So don’t forget to stop and enjoy Kampala when you’re on your safari, it’s well worth it! To learn more about our safari tours mentioned above, and what other tours we have to offer, visit our website!
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