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Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, is an incredible city to visit. It provides an authentic experience that many travelers to Africa may not otherwise encounter. Another great thing about this city is the ability to travel to Kampala on a budget!
In this guide, we’ll cover Kampala’s claim to fame, things to do and see, cuisine, where to stay, and tips for visiting.
Table of Contents
Why is Kampala Famous?
Kampala is famous for its lively street scene, cultural heritage, and political significance. It is the largest city in Uganda and has been the country’s capital since 1962. Kampala is also home to several historical sites, including the Tombs of Buganda Kings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can also explore the Uganda Museum, which showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Kampala is also known for its crazy nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues that cater to all tastes.
Where is Kampala?
What Language Do They Speak in Kampala?
English is the official language in Uganda and is widely spoken in Kampala. However, many people in Kampala also speak Luganda, a Bantu language.
Is Kampala Safe For Travelers?
Kampala is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. However, there are certain areas that you should not walk around in, and these areas are pretty apparent when you see them. I would avoid walking around at night, just take a taxi or boda boda wherever you need to go.
Things to Do in Kampala on a Budget
While there is plenty to see and do in Kampala on a budget, here are our recommended top 5!
Take a Day Trip to Lake Victoria
Lake Victoria is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world and is a great addition to your Kampala itinerary. It’s only a short distance from Kampala, making it a great option for a day trip. You can enjoy different activities there, such as fishing, boating, and bird watching. Many local tour companies offer guided tours of the lake, which often include stops at nearby islands such as Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary. A day trip to Lake Victoria is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Uganda and learn more about the local culture.
Visit the Baháʼí Temple
The Baháʼí Temple in Kampala is an awesome destination for anyone visiting Uganda. This stunning temple is one of only eight Baháʼí temples in the world and is renowned for its unique architecture and tranquil surroundings. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, learn about the Baháʼí faith, and take in the breathtaking views of Kampala. The temple is located on the top of a large hill, so you can enjoy cool breezes as you admire the architecture and surrounding gardens. This temple is open daily and, the best part, it’s free!
Experience Kampala's Famous Nightlife Scene
While there are bars and clubs everywhere in Kampala, the best neighborhood for nightlife is Kabalagala. Kampala’s nightlife is famous in Africa, and it’s easy to see why! Make sure to check out famous spots, such as the Wild Coffee Bar, as they often have events going on. It’s always best to go out as a group for safety purposes, especially in a foreign country.
Visit the Gaddafi Mosque
The Gaddafi Mosque, officially known as the Uganda National Mosque, is an impressive landmark in Kampala that is worth a visit. This mosque was commissioned by former Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi and is one of the largest mosques in Africa. Visitors can explore the mosque’s impressive architecture, including its minarets and domes. The mosque also offers breathtaking views of Kampala and the surrounding hills. Entry to the mosque is free, but donations are accepted, especially if you accept a guide
Check out the local markets
Owino and Nakasero markets are two of the most famous markets in Kampala, offering an authentic shopping experience to visitors. Owino Market is the largest market in Kampala and a hub for local and imported goods. The market is crowded and noisy, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce and clothing to electronics and household goods. Nakasero Market, on the other hand, is a more upscale market, offering a variety of fresh produce, meat, and seafood. These markets are open daily, and it’s best to visit in the morning before the crowds come.
Cuisine of Kampala
The cuisine of Kampala is a diverse mixture of traditional and international flavors. Here are the top 3 foods you should try!
Chapati
Anybody traveling to East Africa needs to try chapatis. This is a type of flatbread that is commonly eaten at almost every meal. It can be combined with beans, meat, or other food.
Rolex
You can’t visit Uganda without trying a rolex. This is a popular street food in Uganda that is affordable and delicious. A rolex is a chapati that is filled with a mixture of eggs, onions, and tomatoes. It is a popular breakfast food and can be found at street vendors throughout Kampala. You can get them for as cheap as 1,000 Ugandan shillings ($0.28 USD) on the street.
Matoke
Matoke is a popular and affordable dish in Uganda that is filling and delicious. It is made from steamed and mashed green bananas and is often served with a variety of stews or sauces. Matoke is a favorite among locals and can be found at street vendors and restaurants throughout Kampala.
Where to Stay in Kampala
There are a few different options to choose from when deciding where to stay in Kampala. What you choose will depend on your budget, desired level of luxury, and what kind of experiences you wish to have.
Low Budget
There are some very cheap accommodation options available in Kampala. My first night there, I stayed in a small motel for $6 USD/night in the Bakuli neighborhood. However, I wouldn’t recommend staying in a place like that for safety reasons. A better place would be the Five Horsemen Hotel. This is located in the heart of Nsambya, near the American Embassy. You can get a shared room for about $10 USD/night.
Medium Budget
Prices for private rooms in Kampala can vary by neighborhood. Near the city center, some hostels offer private rooms for $25/night, while small hotels could charge about $30-50/night. Further away from the city center, you can find decent hotels for $20-30/night. A highly-rated budget hotel near the city center is the Scroll Inn Hotel, going for about $35 USD/night.
High Budget
If you want to stay in the Kololo neighborhood, you can easily find hotels for $120-200/night. For a more luxurious experience, consider staying at one of the high-end hotels, such as the Kampala Serena Hotel. This hotel offers a large swimming pool, fitness center, and rooms with a balcony and air conditioning.
Check out the map below for available accommodations.
Tips for Visiting Kampala
Before your trip to Kampala, here are 5 tips to ensure your visit goes smoothly.
1. Stay aware of your surroundings
Always keep an eye out for anything suspicious. While some places in Kampala are safer than others, in general, don’t walk around with your phone out. In crowded areas, it is easy for someone to grab your phone and run away. If you are walking by the street, someone on a motorcycle can just grab it as they go by.
2. Take boda-bodas to get around
Similar to motos in Kigali, boda-bodas are motorcycle taxis that are found everywhere in the city. These are an inexpensive way of getting around Kampala. Just hold on tight, the drivers will weave in and out of traffic to get to their location. It’s not for the faint of heart!
3. Plan for traffic
There is a lot of traffic in Kampala, and you should plan in advance if you have any deadlines to be somewhere. This is another reason to take boda-bodas, as they will drive through traffic much more quickly than a car or a bus.
4. Carry small bills
The majority of places, outside of large stores and restaurants, do not accept cards for payment. In addition, they usually do not have change if you hand them 20,000 or 50,000 shilling notes. It’s much better to carry 1,000, 2,000, and 5,000 notes.
5. Learn at least a few words of Luganda
While most people in Kampala speak English, Luganda is the native language of most of the population. Saying just a few words in Luganda can surprise people and improve your interactions with them.
Gyebole Ko? (jeb-o-lay ko?) – How are you?
Webaale (web-aah-lay) – Thank you.
