Things to Do in Kampala

About Kampala

Kampala sprawls across seven hills above Lake Victoria, and the city moves faster than most first-timers expect. Boda-bodas—motorcycle taxis—own the streets. You'll hear a dozen languages in any market, smell rolex stands on every corner, and dodge fabric sellers who've perfected their pitch over generations. The energy here is real. Not manufactured for tourists. People smile when they greet you, cafés spill conversation onto the sidewalks, and the pace never stops until sunset turns the lake orange. This is where East Africa does business. Modern office towers sit next to churches that ring bells at the same time mosques call for prayer. The mix works—for now. Trade routes that brought merchants here centuries ago still matter, just with different cargo and faster transport. Don't expect quiet reflection. The hillside neighborhoods stay loud with kids playing, music bleeding from bars, and those boda-bodas gunning their engines at every intersection. That is Kampala's appeal, though. It doesn't pretend to be anything except itself.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) for short distances but negotiate prices beforehand (2,000-5,000 UGX typical). Download SafeBoda app for reliable service. For longer trips, use special hire taxis or Uber. Always wear helmets when available.

Money: Carry Ugandan Shillings in small denominations (UGX 1,000-10,000 notes). ATMs are common but may run out of cash weekends. US dollars accepted at hotels/tours but ensure bills are post-2006 and crisp.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and rural areas. Greet with handshakes and 'Oli otya?' in Luganda. Avoid pointing with index finger; use open hand. Ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets.

Food Safety: Enjoy street food from busy stalls with high turnover – try rolex (chapati with eggs). Drink bottled or boiled water. Wash hands frequently. Fresh fruits you can peel yourself are safe. Avoid raw vegetables unless from upscale restaurants.

When to Visit

Kampala enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct dry seasons offering the best travel conditions. The prime dry season (June-August) features sunny days with temperatures of 25-28°C and minimal rainfall (under 100mm monthly), making it perfect for city exploration and lake activities, though accommodation prices increase 20-30%. The shorter dry season (December-February) offers similar weather with slightly warmer temperatures (26-30°C) and is ideal for budget travelers, with 15-20% lower prices. Rainy seasons bring lush green landscapes and fewer crowds: the long rains (March-May) see heavy afternoon downpours and temperatures of 23-27°C, while short rains (September-November) feature brief, refreshing showers. Cultural ensoiasts should visit during Kampala City Festival (October), Bayimba International Festival (September), or Nyege Nyege Festival (September) when the city pulses with music and arts. Business travelers find January-March and September-November ideal with moderate weather and lower accommodation costs. Adventure seekers benefit from shoulder seasons when gorilla permits are easier to secure for nearby Bwindi excursions. Avoid April-May if you're uncomfortable with heavy rains, though this period offers the lowest prices with discounts up to 40% on accommodation.