Where to Stay in Kampala
A regional guide to accommodation across the country
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Regions of Kampala
Each region offers a distinct character and accommodation scene. Find the one that matches your travel plans.
Uganda's capital and surrounding central region serves as the country's primary gateway, hosting Entebbe International Airport and the widest variety of accommodation from international chain hotels to budget hostels. Kampala's hilltop neighborhoods like Kololo and Nakasero feature luxury business hotels, while areas like Kabalagala offer mid-range guesthouses. The nearby town of Entebbe provides lakeside properties and convenient airport access, making this region essential for arrival, departure, and trip planning.
This mountainous region is Uganda's premier gorilla trekking destination, featuring Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Accommodation ranges from exclusive luxury lodges perched on forest edges to community-run bandas and budget camps in gateway towns like Kisoro, Kabale, and Buhoma. Properties here emphasize gorilla trekking logistics, with early breakfast services and packed lunches standard. The cool highland climate and dramatic scenery create a distinctive atmosphere unlike Uganda's savannah parks.
Western Uganda encompasses Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for tree-climbing lions and boat safaris on Kazinga Channel, plus Kibale Forest National Park, the world's primate capital. Accommodation includes classic safari lodges with savannah views, forest camps near chimpanzee trekking sites, and mid-range properties in Fort Portal town. This region offers diverse habitats from crater lakes to tropical forest, reflected in varied lodge settings from open plains to dense woodland.
Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda's largest protected area, dominates the northern safari circuit with its dramatic waterfall and abundant wildlife including elephants, giraffes, and Nile crocodiles. Accommodation concentrates on the southern bank near Paraa and at Pakuba in the north, ranging from luxury lodges with Nile views to budget camps. The remote Kidepo Valley National Park in the far northeast offers exclusive wilderness lodges for adventurous travelers seeking isolation and spectacular scenery.
Eastern Uganda centers on Jinja, the adventure capital at the source of the Nile, offering riverside lodges and adrenaline-focused accommodation near white-water rafting and kayaking sites. Further east, Mount Elgon National Park and the Sipi Falls area provide mountain lodges and guesthouses catering to hikers and coffee tourists. This region combines adventure sports with agricultural tourism, reflected in properties ranging from backpacker hostels to boutique coffee estate lodges.
Uganda's Lake Victoria shores and the Ssese Islands offer beach and island resort experiences distinct from the country's safari offerings. The Ssese Islands feature budget beach camps and mid-range island resorts accessible by ferry from Entebbe or Masaka, providing relaxation-focused accommodation with water sports and fishing. Mainland lakeside properties near Entebbe and along the northern shores combine proximity to Kampala with waterfront settings, popular for weekend getaways and post-safari relaxation.
Lake Bunyonyi, Africa's second-deepest lake, offers a scenic highland retreat between gorilla trekking in Bwindi and other southwestern attractions. Accommodation clusters around this bilharzia-free lake's terraced shores, ranging from budget backpacker islands to upscale hillside lodges with panoramic views. The cool climate, swimming opportunities, and cultural activities make this a popular relaxation stop, with properties emphasizing tranquility and natural beauty in a distinctly non-safari setting.
Accommodation Landscape
What to expect from accommodation options across Kampala
Uganda's accommodation is dominated by independent lodges and small local chains rather than international brands. Marasa Africa operates several upscale properties including Mweya Safari Lodge and Chobe Safari Lodge. The Volcanoes Safaris group runs exclusive eco-lodges near gorilla trekking areas. Serena Hotels has properties in Kampala and at Lake Victoria. International chains like Protea by Marriott and Sheraton are limited to Kampala. Most safari lodges are independently owned or part of small East African groups, offering distinctive character but variable standards that require research.
Independent safari lodges, community-run bandas, and family-owned guesthouses form the backbone of Uganda's accommodation outside Kampala. These range from high-end properties like Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp to basic community camps near park boundaries. Local guesthouses in gateway towns like Kisoro, Fort Portal, and Masindi offer budget travelers essential amenities at UGX 30,000-80,000 per night. Quality varies significantly, making recent reviews essential. Many mid-range properties are owner-operated, providing personalized service and local knowledge that larger chains cannot match.
Uganda offers distinctive accommodation including tented camps on private Nile islands, treehouse lodges overlooking forest canopy, and community-owned bandas that directly benefit local villages. Wildwaters Lodge occupies a private Nile island with luxury tents and dramatic river views. Several lodges incorporate traditional Ugandan architectural elements like thatched roofs and open-air designs. Homestays in villages near Bwindi allow cultural immersion with gorilla trekking families. Coffee estate lodges in Sipi Falls combine accommodation with farm experiences. Houseboat options exist on Lake Victoria for mobile waterborne stays.
Booking Tips for Kampala
Country-specific advice for finding the best accommodation
Gorilla trekking permits ($700 USD) must be secured before booking accommodation, as permit availability determines your trek date and location. Once you have confirmed permits for specific sectors (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, or Nkuringo in Bwindi, or Mgahinga), book lodges nearest to your assigned trekking sector to minimize pre-dawn travel time. Premium lodges can help coordinate permit bookings as part of package arrangements.
For June-September and December-February travel, particularly around Christmas and New Year, book safari lodges and gorilla area accommodation at least 4-6 months in advance. The best-positioned properties near park gates and trekking start points fill earliest. Mid-range options in gateway towns provide backup if premier lodges are full, though this means longer morning drives to activities.
Many safari lodges operate off-grid using generators or solar power with limited electricity hours (typically 6-10am and 6-11pm). Confirm power availability for charging devices and whether your room has 24-hour electricity. Premium lodges usually offer constant power, but mid-range and budget camps may have restrictions. This is crucial for photographers needing to charge multiple batteries.
Most safari lodges are isolated from towns and restaurants, making full-board (all meals included) the practical choice and often mandatory. Verify exactly what's included—some properties include alcoholic beverages, others charge separately. Budget camps may offer half-board with basic meals, but options for additional food are limited. Gateway town guesthouses offer more flexibility with nearby restaurants.
Uganda's road conditions vary dramatically, affecting transfer times between regions. Kampala to Bwindi takes 8-10 hours by road, while Kampala to Murchison Falls requires 5-6 hours. When booking, consider whether lodges offer or arrange transfers, as self-driving on unfamiliar roads can be challenging. Some remote lodges are accessible only by 4WD, particularly during rainy seasons. Charter flights to airstrips near major parks offer time-saving alternatives for higher budgets.
When to Book
Timing matters for both price and availability across Kampala
For June-September and December-February, book gorilla area lodges 6-12 months in advance, especially if you need specific trek dates. Gorilla permits sell out months ahead, and the best lodges follow quickly. Savannah park lodges (Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth) require 3-4 months advance booking for peak season. Christmas and New Year periods see the highest demand across all regions, with prices increasing 40-60% at premium properties. Last-minute bookings during high season often mean settling for gateway town guesthouses rather than park-adjacent lodges.
March-May and October-November (rainy seasons) offer better availability and rates, with booking 6-8 weeks ahead usually sufficient even for gorilla lodges. Many properties reduce rates 20-30% during these months, and you'll have better selection. Gorilla permits remain available closer to travel dates. Rain typically falls in afternoon showers rather than all-day downpours, and the lush green scenery can be spectacular. This is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who don't mind occasional wet conditions.
April-May sees the lowest demand and best rates, with some luxury lodges offering discounts up to 40%. However, some remote properties close for maintenance during heavy rains, limiting options. Roads to certain areas may be challenging. Gorilla trekking continues year-round and can be excellent during rainy season with fewer visitors. This period suits flexible travelers who can adapt to conditions and appreciate substantial savings on both accommodation and activities.
Book 4-6 months ahead for balanced availability and rates across most of Uganda. Gorilla trekking always requires early planning regardless of season, as permits are limited. For multi-region itineraries, book all properties simultaneously to ensure date coordination. Properties near gorilla sectors and premium park lodges need earliest booking, while gateway town guesthouses and Kampala hotels can often be booked 4-6 weeks out even in high season. Always verify if your preferred lodge will be open during your travel dates, as seasonal closures affect some properties.
Good to Know
Local customs and practical information for Kampala