Home › Destinations › Namirembe Cathedral
Namirembe Cathedral, Uganda - Things to Do in Namirembe Cathedral

Things to Do in Namirembe Cathedral

Namirembe Cathedral, Uganda - Complete Travel Guide

Namirembe Cathedral, located on one of Kampala's seven hills, stands as one of Uganda's most significant religious and historical landmarks. This Anglican cathedral, officially known as St. Paul's Cathedral Namirembe, was built in the early 20th century and serves as the mother church of the Church of Uganda. The cathedral sits majestically on Namirembe Hill, offering stunning panoramic views of Kampala city and Lake Victoria in the distance. The area around Namirembe Cathedral represents the heart of Uganda's Christian heritage, with the cathedral playing a crucial role in the country's religious and social development. Visitors are drawn not only to the beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere but also to the rich history that includes stories of early missionaries, Ugandan martyrs, and the growth of Christianity in East Africa. The cathedral grounds and surrounding Namirembe Hill provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling city below while offering insight into Uganda's colonial and post-independence religious landscape.

Top Things to Do in Namirembe Cathedral

Cathedral Architecture and Interior Tour

Explore the beautiful Gothic Revival architecture of St. Paul's Cathedral with its impressive stone construction, stained glass windows, and soaring spires. The interior features beautiful wooden pews, religious artifacts, and memorials to early missionaries and Ugandan church leaders.

Booking Tip: Tours are typically free but donations are appreciated. Visit during weekday mornings for quieter exploration, and dress modestly. Sunday services offer a chance to experience the cathedral in active use with beautiful choir music.

Namirembe Hill Panoramic Views

Climb to the highest points around the cathedral for breathtaking 360-degree views of Kampala city, the surrounding hills, and glimpses of Lake Victoria. The elevated position makes it one of the best vantage points in the city for photography and orientation.

Booking Tip: Best visited during early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting and cooler temperatures. Bring a camera and comfortable walking shoes. No entrance fee, but consider hiring a local guide for $5-10 for historical context.

Uganda Martyrs Historical Sites

Visit memorials and sites related to the Uganda Martyrs, young Christian converts who were killed in the 1880s and later canonized. The area holds deep significance in Ugandan Christian history and African martyrdom.

Booking Tip: Combine with visits to other martyr sites in Kampala for a complete historical experience. Local guides available for $10-15 can provide detailed historical context. Best visited on weekdays to avoid crowds.

Traditional Ugandan Craft Shopping

Browse local markets and craft shops around Namirembe Hill for authentic Ugandan handicrafts, traditional fabrics, religious artifacts, and locally made souvenirs. The area is known for quality bark cloth and traditional musical instruments.

Booking Tip: Bargaining is expected - start at 30-40% of the quoted price. Visit during weekday mornings for better selection and prices. Bring cash in Ugandan shillings, and consider hiring a local guide to navigate the best shops.

Local Community and Church Service Experience

Attend a Sunday service to experience vibrant Ugandan Anglican worship with traditional music, enthusiastic congregational singing, and warm community fellowship. Services often feature local choirs and traditional instruments alongside organ music.

Booking Tip: Sunday services typically start at 8 AM and 10 AM. Arrive 15-20 minutes early, dress conservatively, and be prepared for services lasting 2-3 hours. Visitors are warmly welcomed, and offerings are voluntary.

Getting There

Namirembe Cathedral is located approximately 3 kilometers from Kampala city center on Namirembe Hill. From Entebbe International Airport, take a taxi or arranged transfer for the 45-minute journey (about $25-40). Within Kampala, boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) cost 3,000-5,000 UGX, while regular taxis charge 10,000-15,000 UGX. Matatus (shared minibuses) are the most economical option at 1,000-2,000 UGX but require local knowledge to navigate routes. The hill location means the final approach involves some uphill walking regardless of transport method.

Getting Around

The cathedral and surrounding Namirembe Hill area are best explored on foot, though the terrain is hilly and requires moderate fitness levels. Boda-bodas are readily available for quick trips around the hill or back to the city center. For visiting multiple religious sites around Kampala, consider hiring a taxi for half or full days (around $30-50). Walking within the cathedral grounds and immediate vicinity is safe during daylight hours, but always stay aware of your surroundings and travel in groups when possible.

Where to Stay

Kampala Central (city center hotels)
Nakasero Hill (upscale accommodations)
Kololo (mid-range guesthouses)
Mengo (budget local lodging)
Rubaga Hill (religious guesthouses)
Wandegeya (backpacker hostels)

Food & Dining

The Namirembe Hill area offers limited dining options, with most visitors eating in central Kampala before or after their visit. Local food vendors around the cathedral serve traditional Ugandan dishes like matoke (steamed bananas), posho, and grilled meats for very reasonable prices. For more substantial meals, head down to Kampala center where you'll find everything from street food markets to upscale restaurants serving both Ugandan and international cuisine. Try local specialties like rolex (chapati with eggs), fresh tropical fruits, and Ugandan coffee. Many restaurants in the city center are within a 15-minute taxi ride from the cathedral.

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 Namirembe Cathedral is during Uganda's dry seasons: December to February and June to August. These periods offer clearer skies for better views from the hill and more comfortable walking conditions. Morning visits (8 AM to 11 AM) provide the best lighting for photography and cooler temperatures for exploring. Sunday mornings offer the unique experience of attending services, while weekday visits provide quieter contemplation time. Avoid the heavy rain seasons (March-May and September-November) as the hill paths can become slippery and muddy, and visibility from the viewpoints may be limited.

Insider Tips

Bring modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, as this is required for entering the cathedral and shows respect for the religious site
The cathedral's bell tower offers exceptional views but access may require special permission - ask the cathedral staff politely
Combine your visit with nearby Rubaga Cathedral (Catholic) on another hill for a comprehensive religious heritage experience of Kampala's dual Christian traditions

Explore Activities in Namirembe Cathedral