Skip to content 
DISCOVER UGANDA
Kampala City Tour
Top Things To Do
Kampala is Uganda’s capital city and home to over 4 million people. It has everything from beautiful parks, museums, shopping malls, restaurants, nightlife, and even a theatres. Kampala is a great place to visit, but it’s also a great place to live. In fact, many expats choose to move here because of its low cost of living, high quality of life, and affordable housing.
I will share with you my top 10 must visit places on your Kampala city tour. These include the National Museum, the Owino Market, the Bahai Temple, the National Theatre, the Makerere UniversityGaddafi National Mosque to have a 360 degree view if Kampala City the Uganda Martyrs Shrine, the Lake victoria in Gabba and ofcourse the best Night life in East Africa. There are many great way to get to know Kampala and enjoy a fun day out and night.If you would like to join us on a Kampala City tour this trip, please contact us via email at [email protected]
What to see on a Kampala City Tour
1. Kabaka’s palace
Kabaka’ s Palace is located in Kampala, Uganda. It was built between 1894 and 1901 by King Mutesa II. The palace is situated on the hilltop of Mengo, overlooking the city of Kampala. There are two main entrances to the palace. One entrance leads to the royal chambers, while the other leads to the public areas of the palace. Visitors must pass through security checkpoints to enter the palace grounds.
Inside the palace, visitors can view exhibits featuring the life of King Mutesa II. There are also displays of traditional African clothing and artworks, including masks, drums, and spears. The palace is located near Makerere University campus. It is open daily from 8am to 5pm. Entry costs $10 per person. Today, the palace is open to visitors and houses a museum. Visitors can learn more about the history of the palace and the kingdom of Buganda
2. Gaddafi National Mosque
One of Uganda’s most famous landmarks is the Uganda National Mosque. It started construction in 1972 and was completed in 2006. It has since become a symbol of Kampala. The mosque is located in the center of town and is open to visitors from all over the world.
It’s easy to visit the mosque if you’re staying in Kampala. Simply walk down the road towards the river and look for the large building with the green dome. There’s no entrance fee to enter the mosque itself, but donations are accepted.
There are many other places to visit in Kampala, including the Makerere University campus, the National Museum, and the Kisekka Market. These are just three of the many tourist attractions in Kampala. For more ideas, check out our article on the best things to do in Kampala
3. Namugongo Martyr’s Shrine
Namugongo Martyrs’ shrine is located in Kampala, Uganda. It was built in memory of the martyrdom of the Namugongo Martyrs who were killed during the reign of King Mwanga II. The shrine was constructed in 1892 by King Mwanga II and his wife Queen Nakiwogo. The shrine is dedicated to the Namugongo Martyr‘s who were killed by the British colonialists.
In addition to being a memorial to the Namugongo martyrs, the shrine has become a place where Ugandans from different parts of the country gather to pray and celebrate their culture. There are many festivals held here every year including the annual festival called “Mukunguza” which takes place in April. Mukunguza is a celebration of Ugandan culture and heritage. The shrine is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. Visitors can pay homage to the Namugongo martyred heroes by visiting the shrine.
The Baha’i Temple in Kampala was built in 1972 and dedicated in 1974. It is the largest Baha’i house of worship outside of Iran. The building is designed to look like a traditional Ugandan home. Inside, visitors can see some of the artwork created by local artists. The Baha`i Temple in Kampala is open daily from 8am to 5pm. Visitors must register at the front desk and present their passports. For more information, visit www.bahai.org/uganda.
The Baha’is are a religious minority group who follow the teachings of the Baha’i Faith. The religion was founded in Iran in 1844 by Mirza Husayn Ali Nuri, who later became known as Bahá’u’lláh. In 1863, he wrote his book titled Kitab-ul-Kashf, which means “Book of Hidden Treasures.” It describes the principles of the faith and its central message, which emphasizes unity among religions and humanity.
In 1868, Bahá’u‘lláh began to spread the word of the religion through letters and other written materials. He died in 1892, but his followers continued to spread the word of God. Today, there are over six million Baha’is worldwide, most of whom live in Iran, Iraq, Syria, Egypt, and Afghanistan.
The Baha’í community has two main centers: the world headquarters in Haifa, Israel, and the Universal House of Justice in New York City. There are also local communities in many countries, including Uganda. The Baha’i temple in Kampala is located near the National Theater.
5. Uganda National Museum
The Uganda National Museum is located in Kampala, Uganda. It was founded in 1894 by Sir Henry Morton Stanley, who was the famous explorer and journalist. The museum has over 100 years of history and contains many artifacts from different periods. It is home to the world’s largest collection of African art and cultural objects. There are over 30 galleries containing thousands of pieces of art and artifacts. The museum also features a planetarium, a natural history gallery, a botanical garden, a library, and a research center.
There are several ways to visit the museum. Visitors can either pay to enter the museum or buy tickets online. However, if you plan to visit the museum during peak hours, it might be best to book a ticket in advance. In addition, visitors must wear shoes while inside the museum.
NDERE CENTRE (also known as Ndere ) is located in Kampala City, Uganda. It is a cultural centre that offers various activities including art exhibitions, music concerts, film screenings, theatre performances, dance shows, and other events. The centre was established in 1996 and later in 2003, it became the home of Ndere Cultural Troupe dance group.
It has a capacity of hosting over 10,000 visitors per day. It is a place where people from different parts of the world can meet and share ideas and experiences. It is a place of peace and tranquility where people can relax and enjoy themselves. It is a place where people can learn about Ugandan culture, history, and heritage. It is a place that promotes unity among its patrons. It is a place for people to experience life in Uganda. It is a place to visit if you want to experience the best of Uganda.
7. Buganda Road Craft Village
Buganda Road Craft Village is located in Kampala City, Uganda. It is a place where artisans from different parts of Uganda meet to sell their products. The village has over 100 craftspeople who sell their wares in the market.
This is a great opportunity for tourists to experience Ugandan culture firsthand. Visitors can buy handcrafted items from local artists and learn about the history behind each item. Buganda Road Craft Village is open daily from 8am until 5pm.
This man made lake has become a popular tourist attraction in Kampala due to its beautiful scenery and resident birds and monkeys. One of the most famous attractions near the lake is the Kabaka’s palace.
9. Namirembe Cathedral
Namirembe is a beautiful cathedral located in Kampala City, Uganda. It was built between 1885 and 1888 and has become a popular tourist attraction. The cathedral is home to the Namirembe Museum, which houses many historical artifacts from the region.
The cathedral is famous for its stained glass windows, which were created by artist John Lavery. Namirembe Cathedral is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm.
Guided Kampala City Walking Tours
Guided Kampala city walking tours take tourists through the busy Kampala streets, lively markets like Nakasero Market where many locals buy fresh produces from famers, and historical landmarks like the Uganda independence monument, Museum offering a deeper understanding of Kampala’s rich heritage. Your knowledgeable Kampala city guides will share their insights, historical facts, bringing the city’s stories to life during the Kampala city walking tour.
One of the most popular destinations on a Kampala city tours is the vibrant Owino Market, a melting point for stalls of second hand cloth to whatever you need in daily life. It is in Owino market. During this walking tour in Kampala, local guides guides will introduce you to the best local street food called Rolex rolled eggs, vegetables and chapati, here we eat the rolex handicrafts, and traditional clothing, ensuring an authentic experience.
As you walk through kampala city, you’ll see architectural gems like the Kasubi Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the imposing Gaddafi Mosque, with its panoramic views of Kampala city . You must not miss the cultural experience at the Ndere Cultural Centre, where you can learn about the country’s diverse cultures through music, dance, and storytelling.
Laba Africa’s Kampala walking tours offer a unique alternative to conventional sightseeing, allowing you to connect with the city of Kampala in a more personal way. So, lace up your walking shoes, embrace the spirit of adventure, and embark on a journey through the vibrant streets of city of 7 hills.
How to navigate Kampala city?
Kampala is one of Uganda’s most populated cities. It has been growing rapidly over the last decade. It is located in the central region of the country. It is the capital city of Uganda and one of the largest city in East Africa. There are several things to do in Kampala. Here are some tips on navigating Kampala city.
1. Start your Kampala city tour early
Starting your Kampala city tour early is always a good idea, especially if you plan on visiting attractions like the National Museum or Kabaka Palace and Owino Market. The best thing to do is to meet your guide after breakfast and go to downtown owino market early so that you don’t miss out on anything since people are very active quite early. Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks along with you, too especially if you have a walking tour. It’s easy to get hungry while walking or waiting in jam
2. Use private transport
Kampala has a large population, and many people rely on a chaotic public transportation ( matatus mini buses and boda bodas to get around town. However, if you’re planning on visiting the city, it’s best to avoid taking public transportation whenever possible for boda boda drivers are very reckless It’s much easier to walk around, or hire a car and driver, this will save money and time in the long run and keep your safer on your kampala city tour
There are plenty of private taxis available in Kampala, but they tend to be expensive. Instead, consider renting a car from a local company like Laba Africa. The cars are reliable and affordable, and you can drive wherever you’d like within the city or outside. Finally, if you’re traveling by foot, make sure to bring comfortable shoes. There are lots of hills in Kampala, and walking around the city can be tiring. Make sure to pack comfortable footwear that will allow you to move easily without hurting yourself.
3. Know Where You Are Going
Kampala is a large city in Uganda, and navigating its streets can be difficult and chaotic if you aren’t familiar with where you’re going. It’s easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of the city, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
To avoid getting lost, try to plan your route beforehand. Make a map of the area you’re visiting, and mark the places you’d like to visit along the way. Also, consider taking guide or renting a boda or rent a car whenever possible. This will save you money and allow you to spend more time enjoying the sights
4. Be Careful where you take photos
During your Kampala city tour, remember to always be safe when traveling. Make sure to travel with someone who knows where you’re going and has experience navigating unfamiliar areas. Please note that its important not to take photos of Parliament, Government installations, Bank of Uganda, Police Stations as it might land you in problems And, if you’re ever lost, make sure to ask for directions from locals. Taking photos is a fun way to capture memories and share them with others. It doesn’t matter if you’re taking pictures of yourself or your friends, everyone loves seeing beautiful photos of places they visit.
To make sure that you get the best shots possible, try experimenting with different settings. For example, you might experiment with different shutter speeds to get a variety of effects. Also, consider using filters to change the look of your photos.
5. Be Safe
Generally, Kampala is a safe place to visit, but it does have its dangers if your not careful. Make sure that you follow these tips to avoid becoming a victim of crime. There is a famous saying that “Kampala is not buildings, if you’re sleepy you loose your things” Keep your valuables secure at home and in your hotel room. Don’t carry large amounts of cash or expensive items with you. Keep your passport, credit cards, and other personal documents in a safe location.
Don’t walk alone late at night especially downtown Kampala, Kololo, Kamwokya. Use common sense when visiting unfamiliar places. Avoid sketchy neighborhoods and poorly lit streets. It’s best to travel during daylight hours and always use uber or private hire car instead of walking if possible. When traveling, try to avoid dark alleys and isolated areas.
6. Eat Well & Stay Hydrated
Kampala is a bustling city where many people work long hours and drink all night long. It’s easy to fall into bad habits if you’re constantly eating bad food and drinking all night long every night. But instead of giving in to these temptations, try staying hydrated and healthy. Drink plenty of water during the day and avoid sugary drinks. Also, eat fruits and vegetables every day to boost energy levels and maintain a healthy weight. Eating well will help you feel full and energized, making it easier to resist temptation.
7. Enjoy Yourself, go out dancing
Kampala is a beautiful city full of culture and history. It has a lot to offer visitors who love to explore. But if you’re planning to visit Uganda, you might feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available to you. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to enjoy yourself while exploring the city. Whether you’re looking for a nightlife hotspot or just want to relax after a long day of sightseeing, Kampala offers many different activities to choose from.
There are plenty of ways to enjoy yourself in Kampala, including going out dancing. Whether you prefer hip hop, house music, or jazz, Local Music, Afrobeats, Live Banda, there’s bound to be a club near you where you can dance the night away. To get started, check out these popular spots: Levels bar and lounge, The Cielo Lounge, Wild Coffee Bar, The Wine Garage, Bubbles Irish Pub, Quepasa Mexican Restaurant, The Lighthouse, The Nightingale, La Terrazza Kisementi, Otters, August 80.
Or, you could attend a cultural festival. Uganda has several festivals each year, including the annual Independence Day celebrations, Nyenge Nyege Festival, Elgon Festival, Rolex Festival, Blankets and Wine, Bayimba Festival, etc . The festivities include parades, concerts, and other activities. Learn more about the country’s biggest festivals here
8. Volunteer
There are plenty of ways to volunteer in Kampala, including working with local schools and small charity organizations helping street children. There are several organizations that offer volunteer programs in Kampala. For example, the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre just outside of Kampala offers short-term internships and long-term volunteer positions. The center provides hands-on training in wildlife conservation and environmental education. Another organization that offers volunteer opportunities is the International Rescue Committee. Volunteers work with refugees from different countries.
It’s easy to become overwhelmed when thinking about volunteering, but there are many benefits to doing so. Volunteering gives you the opportunity to learn about other cultures and gain valuable experience. In addition, you’ll meet new people and develop lasting friendships. Finally, volunteering helps you feel fulfilled and gives you a chance to contribute to society.
9. Relaxing
Relax and treat yourself
Kampala is usually warm and sunny, so you shall might be happy to relax and enjoy the nice weather, especially after couple days of visiting. There is a number of nice swimming pools in the city, where you can relax, sunbath, spend your afternoon reading, swim, etc. Usually located in hotels, the swimming pools are however not reserved to guests. The entrance for non-guest visitors is usually between 25’000 UGX and 40’000 UGX (6.50 USD to 10.50 USD), and can even include access to the gym or sauna. Some swimming pools also offer dramatic views of the city. Our favourites include Speke Resort Munyonyo, Cassia Lodge, Latitude 0° and Kabira Country Club.
If swimming pools are not so much your things but you still feel like relaxing, you can go for a massage or spa/beauty treatment. Numerous beauty salons and spas are located in Kampala, and the prices are usually very fair.
10. Do Things That Interest You
Whether you want to take up a new hobby or try a new sport, there are lots of things to do in Kampala. For example, if you like rock climbing in munyonyo, you can go on an adventure. Or, you can take a horseback ride in munyonyo. If you’re interested in art, you can visit the Kampala Art Gallery.
