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Centenary Park, Uganda - Things to Do in Centenary Park

Things to Do in Centenary Park

Centenary Park, Uganda - Complete Travel Guide

Centenary Park is a charming town located in the Nakasongola district of central Uganda, situated along the shores of Lake Kyoga. Named to commemorate Uganda's centenary, this peaceful destination offers visitors a glimpse into authentic Ugandan rural life while serving as a gateway to some of the country's most pristine wetland ecosystems. The town sits in a region known for its rich biodiversity, traditional fishing communities, and expansive savanna landscapes that stretch toward the Nile corridor. While Centenary Park may be small in size, it provides an excellent base for exploring the greater Lake Kyoga region and experiencing Uganda's natural beauty away from the more crowded tourist circuits. The area is particularly appealing to travelers interested in birdwatching, fishing, cultural exchanges with local communities, and those seeking a tranquil retreat in Uganda's heartland. The town's proximity to both Kampala and northern Uganda makes it an ideal stopover point for those traveling between regions.

Top Things to Do in Centenary Park

Lake Kyoga Boat Excursions

Explore the expansive waters of Lake Kyoga, Uganda's second-largest lake, on guided boat trips that showcase the area's incredible birdlife and fishing communities. The lake's shallow waters and papyrus-lined shores create perfect habitats for numerous water birds, while local fishermen demonstrate traditional techniques passed down through generations.

Booking Tip: Arrange boat trips through local operators for $15-25 per person for half-day excursions. Early morning trips (6-10 AM) offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities and calmer waters.

Traditional Fishing Village Tours

Visit authentic fishing villages along Lake Kyoga's shores to learn about traditional Ugandan fishing methods and local community life. These cultural exchanges offer insights into the daily routines of lakeside communities, including net-making, fish processing, and traditional cooking methods using fresh catch from the lake.

Booking Tip: Community-based tours cost $10-15 per person and should be arranged through local guides. Best visited in late afternoon when fishermen return with their daily catch.

Wetland Birdwatching Expeditions

The Lake Kyoga wetlands surrounding Centenary Park host over 200 bird species, including shoebill storks, African fish eagles, and numerous waterbirds. Guided birdwatching walks through papyrus swamps and along shoreline paths offer excellent opportunities for both novice and experienced birders to spot rare and endemic species.

Booking Tip: Hire local birding guides for $20-30 per day, including basic equipment. Dry season months (June-September) provide easier access to prime birdwatching spots.

Savanna Nature Walks

Explore the surrounding savanna grasslands on guided nature walks that reveal the area's diverse flora and smaller wildlife species. These walks provide opportunities to learn about traditional plant uses, spot antelope species, and enjoy panoramic views across the Lake Kyoga basin.

Booking Tip: Nature walks cost $8-12 per person for 2-3 hour excursions. Wear long pants and boots, and carry water. Early morning walks are most comfortable and productive for wildlife spotting.

Local Market and Craft Experiences

Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting Centenary Park's weekly markets and observing traditional craft-making activities. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of rural Ugandan commerce while learning about local produce, handmade items, and traditional skills like basket weaving and pottery.

Booking Tip: Market visits are free, but budget $5-15 for purchasing local crafts or snacks. Wednesday and Saturday are the main market days with the most activity and variety.

Getting There

Centenary Park is accessible by road from Kampala, approximately 120 kilometers north via the Kampala-Gulu highway. The journey takes about 2-3 hours by private vehicle or hired taxi. Public transportation options include buses and shared taxis (matatus) that run regularly between Kampala and Nakasongola town, from where you can catch local transport to Centenary Park. The nearest airport is Entebbe International Airport, about 150 kilometers south, making road transport the most practical option for reaching this destination.

Getting Around

Local transportation in Centenary Park primarily consists of boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis), which are ideal for short distances and cost 2,000-5,000 UGX per trip. Walking is feasible within the town center, while bicycle rentals are sometimes available through local operators for exploring nearby areas. For lake excursions and visits to surrounding villages, hiring a local guide with transportation is recommended. Many accommodations can arrange transport services, and having a local contact helps navigate the area's unpaved roads and seasonal accessibility challenges.

Where to Stay

Lake Kyoga shoreline guesthouses
Centenary Park town center
Nakasongola district lodges
Community-based accommodations
Camping sites near the lake
Budget hotels along main road

Food & Dining

Dining in Centenary Park centers around fresh fish from Lake Kyoga, typically prepared with local spices and served with staples like posho, rice, or matoke (steamed bananas). Local restaurants and guesthouses offer traditional Ugandan cuisine at very affordable prices, usually ranging from 5,000-15,000 UGX per meal. Street food vendors provide quick snacks like rolex (egg rolls), samosas, and fresh fruit. Many accommodations can arrange meals featuring the day's fresh catch, and some offer cooking demonstrations where visitors can learn to prepare traditional Ugandan dishes using local ingredients and methods.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Kampala

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Café Javas

4.5 /5
(5324 reviews) 2
cafe

Cafesserie Arena Mall

4.5 /5
(819 reviews) 2

La Cabana Restaurant

4.5 /5
(755 reviews) 3

Yums Cafe, Ntinda

4.5 /5
(551 reviews) 2

Kardamom & Koffee

4.6 /5
(413 reviews) 2
bar book_store cafe

Emirates Grills

4.5 /5
(399 reviews) 2

When to Visit

The best time to visit Centenary Park is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February, when roads are more accessible and outdoor activities are most enjoyable. These periods offer clearer skies for photography, easier navigation of wetland areas for birdwatching, and more comfortable conditions for boat trips on Lake Kyoga. The wet seasons (March-May and October-November) can make some areas difficult to access due to muddy roads, but they also bring lush landscapes and increased bird activity. Fishing is generally good year-round, though local fishermen report better catches during certain seasonal patterns that vary annually.

Insider Tips

Bring insect repellent and long-sleeved clothing for evening activities near the lake, as mosquitoes can be numerous in wetland areas
Learn a few basic Luganda or Lusoga phrases, as English may be limited outside of tour guides and accommodation staff
Carry small denomination Ugandan shillings for local purchases, as credit cards are not accepted and ATMs may not be readily available in the area

Explore Activities in Centenary Park