Things to Do in Gaddafi National Mosque
Gaddafi National Mosque, Uganda - Complete Travel Guide
Kampala, Uganda's vibrant capital city, is home to the magnificent Gaddafi National Mosque, one of Africa's largest mosques and a stunning example of Islamic architecture. Perched on Kampala Hill, this impressive structure was built with funding from the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi and serves as both a place of worship and a symbol of Uganda's religious diversity. The mosque's towering minarets and gleaming white dome dominate the city's skyline, offering visitors breathtaking panoramic views of Kampala and Lake Victoria beyond.
Kampala itself is a bustling metropolis built across seven hills, blending traditional Ugandan culture with modern urban life. The city serves as the gateway to Uganda's incredible wildlife and natural attractions, while offering its own rich tapestry of markets, cultural sites, and historical landmarks. From the chaotic energy of downtown streets to the serene beauty of religious sites like the Gaddafi Mosque, Kampala provides visitors with an authentic East African urban experience that perfectly complements Uganda's renowned safari destinations.
Top Things to Do in Gaddafi National Mosque
Explore Gaddafi National Mosque
Climb the 304 steps to the top of the minaret for spectacular 360-degree views of Kampala and Lake Victoria. The mosque offers guided tours that explain Islamic architecture and Uganda's Muslim heritage, including visits to the prayer halls and library.
Booking Tip: Free entry with guided tours available for 10,000-15,000 UGX ($3-4). Visit between 9 AM-5 PM, dress modestly (long pants and covered shoulders required), and avoid prayer times. Best photography light is in the morning.
Visit Kasubi Tombs
Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site that serves as the burial ground for Buganda kings. The traditional thatched structure showcases Ganda architecture and offers insights into Uganda's royal history and cultural traditions.
Booking Tip: Entry costs 20,000 UGX ($5) for foreigners. Hire a local guide for 10,000-15,000 UGX to fully understand the cultural significance. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
Experience Owino Market
Navigate through East Africa's largest market, a sensory overload of colorful fabrics, fresh produce, crafts, and street food. This bustling marketplace offers authentic local interactions and excellent bargaining opportunities for souvenirs.
Booking Tip: Free to explore but bring small bills for purchases. Hire a local guide for 20,000-30,000 UGX ($6-8) for safety and navigation. Visit morning hours (8-11 AM) for freshest produce and cooler temperatures.
Take a Boda Boda City Tour
Experience Kampala like a local on the back of a motorcycle taxi, weaving through traffic and narrow streets to reach hidden gems and viewpoints. This thrilling mode of transport offers an authentic and efficient way to see multiple sites quickly.
Booking Tip: Negotiate rates beforehand (5,000-10,000 UGX per short trip). Use reputable operators or hotel recommendations. Always wear provided helmets and agree on destinations upfront. Best during dry season for safety.
Sunset at Nakasero Hill
Enjoy panoramic views of Kampala's seven hills and Lake Victoria from this elevated location in the upscale Nakasero district. The area offers excellent restaurants and bars perfect for watching the sunset over Uganda's capital city.
Booking Tip: Free to access public viewpoints, but restaurant/bar visits cost 50,000-100,000 UGX ($15-30) per person. Visit 5:30-7 PM for best sunset views. Book dinner reservations in advance at upscale venues.
Getting There
Entebbe International Airport, located 40 kilometers from Kampala, is the main gateway to Uganda. The journey to the city takes 45-90 minutes depending on traffic, with options including airport taxis (80,000-120,000 UGX), private transfers, or local buses. Many visitors combine their mosque visit with broader Uganda itineraries including gorilla trekking or safari experiences. Domestic flights, buses, and private vehicles connect Kampala to other Ugandan destinations, while regional flights link to Nairobi, Kigali, and other East African capitals.
Getting Around
Kampala's transportation includes boda bodas (motorcycle taxis) for quick trips through traffic, matatus (shared minibuses) for budget travel, and special hire taxis for comfort and safety. Boda bodas cost 2,000-10,000 UGX per trip but require caution and helmet use. Walking is feasible in central areas but watch for uneven sidewalks and traffic. Many visitors prefer organized tours or private drivers for sightseeing, especially when visiting multiple religious and cultural sites. Uber operates in Kampala and provides a safer, more predictable alternative to local transport options.
Where to Stay
Nakasero (upscale hotels and city views)
Kololo (diplomatic area with mid-range options)
Bugolobi (quiet residential with guesthouses)
City Center (budget hotels near attractions)
Ntinda (modern area with business hotels)
Muyenga (hillside location with panoramic views)
Food & Dining
Kampala's dining scene ranges from street food markets to upscale restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Try traditional Ugandan dishes like matoke (steamed bananas), posho, and fresh tilapia from Lake Victoria at local restaurants or the famous Rolex (egg and chapati roll) from street vendors. The city offers excellent Indian cuisine reflecting the large South Asian community, plus Lebanese, Chinese, and Continental options. Popular dining areas include Acacia Avenue, Bugolobi, and Nakasero, while local markets provide authentic and budget-friendly meals starting from 5,000 UGX.
Top-Rated Restaurants in Kampala
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When to Visit
The best time to visit the Gaddafi National Mosque and Kampala is during the dry seasons from December to February and June to August, when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are comfortable for climbing the mosque's minaret and exploring the city on foot. These periods offer clear skies perfect for photography and panoramic views from the mosque. The shoulder months of March, September, and November can also be pleasant with fewer crowds, though occasional rain showers are possible. Avoid the heavy rainy seasons (March-May and September-November) when flooding can affect transportation and outdoor activities, though the mosque itself remains accessible year-round.
Insider Tips
Visit the mosque early morning (9-10 AM) for the best lighting and fewer crowds, plus cooler temperatures for the minaret climb
Combine your mosque visit with nearby Makerere University and the Uganda Museum for a full day of cultural exploration
Bring exact change in Ugandan shillings as most attractions and guides prefer cash payments over cards or foreign currency