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The 8 Best Day Trips in Kampala

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Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, is a bustling metropolis that constantly surprises and delights travelers. From stunning natural landscapes to historic sites and cultural attractions, Kampala has something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this vibrant city. In this blog post, we’ll highlight the best attractions and activities that Kampala has to offer, providing a comprehensive guide to help you plan your next adventure. So, get ready to explore Kampala like a local, and discover the magic that makes this city truly unique.

The 8 Best Day Trips in Kampala

  1. Kampala on Foot Tour
  2. African Safaris
  3. Lake Mburo National Park With Equator Game Drive Cruise
  4. 3 Days Murchison Falls Safari
  5. 3 Days Murchison Falls Park Uganda
  6. 14 Day Uganda Classic Wildlife Safari
  7. 10 Day African Experience Tour
  8. 2 Day Gorilla Treking

The 8 Best Day Trips in Kampala

1. Kampala on Foot Tour

Gain an intimate overview of vibrant Kampala on this walking tour. Led by a local guide, this tour is ideal for first-time visitors to the Ugandan capital. You’ll be able to tick off a combination of top attractions and hidden gems including the Nakasero Market, Kampala Hindu Temple, and the iconic Taxi Park. The small-group size ensures a more personalized experience and you’ll also gain an overview of Kampala’s history and highlights in just one morning. You’ll be immersed in the city ambience as you explore on foot, with no need to carry a guidebook as your local guide will provide insights. Food and drinks will be provided throughout the tour. At the end of the tour, you’ll have the option to take a short motorbike taxi ride. The meeting point for the tour is the entrance of the crafts mark at Bagala Craft on Buganda Rd Kampala, Uganda. Please note that the listed price does not include any parking fees for guests arriving by a waiting private car, and city council charges 2000 UGX per hour.

2. African Safaris

Gain a comprehensive overview of Uganda’s wild highlights on this 10-day cross-country safari tour. Travel from savannah to rainforest in search of lions, elephants, chimps, gorillas, and more. You’ll pass through reserves such as Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This private tour is fully personalized to optimize your chances of spotting the animals you want to see. Accommodation, meals, and transfers are included so you can enjoy a hassle-free trip. The tour starts at 08:00 AM in Kampala, where you can either head directly to the meeting point or request pickup. The tour ends back at the meeting point. Lunch, breakfast, and dinner are included for the duration of the tour, which includes 9 meals in total. Remember that travellers can call the Tour Guide if needed.

3. Lake Mburo National Park With Equator Game Drive Cruise

Start the tour with an early morning pick up from your hotel or accommodation in Kampala or Entebbe. Proceed to Kayabwe for a breakfast stop before traveling to Lake Mburo National Park, located in Kiruhura District in the Western Region of Uganda, approximately 240 km west of Kampala. Embark on a 3-hour game drive to spot zebras, giraffes, long-horned cattle, and other magnificent animals. The park also boasts over 300 bird species, offering visitors an unmissable bird-watching experience. Opt to take a guided walk along the walking trail. After the game drive, enjoy a relaxing time in the shade while lunch is served. Later on, head to the shore for a 2-hour boat trip on Lake Mburo as you watch the sun set on the horizon. This is a great opportunity to spot some of the water-lovers in Lake Mburo, like crocodiles and hippos. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Equator, taking home a memorable experience of balancing on the imaginary line separating the Northern and Southern hemispheres. This day trip offers a chance to experience the best of Lake Mburo National Park and its surroundings, making it a must-do activity for any adventure-seeker visiting Kampala.

4. 3 Days Murchison Falls Safari

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of Kampala and delve into Uganda’s largest national park on a private 3-day tour to Murchison Falls. With round-trip transfer from your hotel and all-inclusive activities, meals, and accommodation, relaxation comes easily. Discover the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and learn about conservation efforts before spending a full day on safari within the park in search of lions, hippos, and more on this guided experience. Take advantage of the included game drive, lake cruise, and guided hike to make the most of your time in the park and gain insight into the local ecosystem.

5. 3 Days Murchison Falls Park Uganda

Experience the beauty of Murchison Falls Park Uganda with this 3-day tour. Enjoy the convenience of having everything included, from meals to accommodation to park fees and tickets for activities. Dinner and alcohol are also included, making for a worry-free experience.

You can either head directly to the meeting point in Entebbe Municipality or request pickup from your desired location. Pickup points include Kampala, Fort portal, Kasese, Kisoro, and Masindi.

The tour takes place between 2/11/2020 and 3/21/2024, with opening hours on Monday-Saturday from 07:00 AM – 09:00 AM and Sunday from 07:00 AM – 09:00 PM. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

During the tour, you can expect to see a range of stunning attractions, from the roaring Murchison Falls to the park’s diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and giraffes. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Cancellation policies allow for cancellation up to a certain point, depending on the local provider. For a worry-free experience in Murchison Falls Park Uganda, book this 3-day tour today.

6. 14 Day Uganda Classic Wildlife Safari

Get ready to embark on a thrilling 14-day Uganda Classic Wildlife Safari where you’ll experience some of the world’s most iconic wildlife encounters. This unforgettable tour includes gorilla and chimp permits, park entry fees, and 13 dinners and 12 lunches. However, please note that the cost of personal visa, flights, travel insurance, and other expenses are not included in the package.

Your adventure begins on day one, where we’ll pick you up from Entebbe airport and transfer you to your guest house. The next day, we’ll take you to Murchison Falls National Park via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you’ll see some of the world’s most endangered rhinos.

On day three, you’ll experience game drives, a boat trip, and the top of the falls tour at Murchison Falls National Park. Day four, we’ll transfer you to Kibale Forest National Park, where the real adventure begins. On day five, get ready for the chimpanzee trekking experience at Kibale National Park.

Day six, we’ll transfer you to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where an exciting Kasenyi game drive and Kazinga Channel boat trip awaits you on day seven. On day eight, we’ll transfer you to Bwindi via Ishasha Sector to spot some tree-climbing lions.

On day nine, you’ll embark on the gorilla trekking adventure, which is undoubtedly the highlight of your 14-day tour. Day ten is reserved for golden monkey trekking at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, the last stop of your fantastic trip.

We’ll pick you up from selected points at 8:00 AM and redeem your tickets at Bamboo Ecotours Kabale – Kisoro Rd Kisoro Uganda. Get ready to witness Uganda’s legendary wildlife encounters and be mesmerized by the beauty of its natural reserves.

7. 10 Day African Experience Tour

This 10-day African Experience Tour is perfect for those seeking adventure and wildlife encounters. The tour includes a gorilla trekking permit ($600), entrance fees to all parks, and bottled water. The trip starts with an airport pick-up and continues to Kibale Forest, where you’ll spend the second day. On the third day, you’ll explore Kibale Forest with two stops. The fourth and fifth days will take you to Queen Elizabeth National Park with two stops each day. Day six continues to Ishasha, and day seven takes you to Bwindi Impenetrable. On day eight, you’ll spend time in Bwindi Impenetrable, and on day nine, you’ll move on to Lake Mburo National Park. The final day of the tour takes you to Entebbe Airport. Pickup points are available in select locations, and the start time will be confirmed with the local provider in advance. Please note that confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. This tour is not wheelchair accessible.

8. 2 Day Gorilla Treking

This 2-day gorilla trekking tour takes you deep into the natural beauty of Rwanda for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. On Day 1, you’ll embark on a thrilling trekking adventure that takes you off the beaten path, through lush forests filled with exotic wildlife, and up close to majestic gorillas in their natural habitat. After an exhilarating day, you’ll retreat to your accommodations for a well-deserved night’s rest. On Day 2, you’ll rise early to continue your gorilla trekking adventure, enjoying the stunning scenery and incredible wildlife along the way. This tour includes breakfast and dinner, as well as the gorilla trekking permit, which costs US$600. Pickup is available from Kigali International Airport or your preferred meeting point. Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. This tour is not wheelchair accessible and travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. The tour is operated by Hope Safaris and can accommodate up to 6 travelers. Cancellation policy applies.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kampala

Kampala is the capital and largest city of Uganda, located in the southern part of the country. As a bustling metropolis with a population of over 1.5 million people, Kampala has become a popular destination for tourists over the years. Here are the most frequently asked questions about the city:

1. What is the best time of year to visit Kampala?

The best time to visit Kampala is during the dry season, which runs from December to February and from June to August. During this time, the weather is pleasant and there is little rain. However, Kampala can be visited year-round as temperatures remain fairly consistent throughout the year.

2. Is Kampala a safe city to visit?

Kampala has a reputation for being a relatively safe city for tourists, but like any other major city, there are some precautions that should be taken. It is important to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and to avoid walking alone at night. Petty theft can occur, so it is best to keep valuables out of sight and in a secure place.

3. What is the local currency in Kampala?

The local currency in Kampala is the Ugandan shilling. It is recommended that you exchange your currency for shillings at a bank or official exchange bureau rather than on the street to avoid being scammed.

4. What is the primary language spoken in Kampala?

The official language of Uganda is English, but many people in Kampala also speak Luganda, which is the most widely spoken language in Uganda. Other languages spoken in Kampala include Swahili, Arabic, and various local dialects.

5. What are some must-see attractions in Kampala?

Kampala has a rich cultural and historic heritage that is reflected in its many attractions. Some of the must-see attractions in Kampala include:

  • The Uganda Museum, which has a collection of traditional artifacts and displays on the country’s history and culture.
  • The Kasubi Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is the burial place of the Buganda kings and an important cultural site for the Baganda people.
  • Namugongo Martyrs Shrine, a Catholic pilgrimage site that commemorates the 22 Ugandan martyrs who were executed for their faith in 1886.
  • The Uganda National Mosque, which is the largest mosque in Uganda and an impressive example of modern Islamic architecture.
  • Lake Victoria, which is the largest lake in Africa and a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming.

6. What is the transportation like in Kampala?

The transportation system in Kampala can be a bit hectic, with heavy traffic and crowded taxis and buses. However, there are many transportation options available, including boda bodas (motorcycle taxis), matatus (minibus taxis), and private taxis. It is recommended that tourists use reputable taxi companies for their safety.

7. What is the local cuisine like in Kampala?

Kampala is known for its diverse cuisine, which is influenced by both African and European traditions. Some popular dishes include matooke (mashed plantains), posho (a cornmeal-based dish), luwombo (meat or chicken stew), and rolex (an omelet wrapped in chapati). It is also common to find Indian and Chinese restaurants in Kampala.

8. What is the weather like in Kampala?

Kampala has a tropical climate with temperatures averaging between 20-30 degrees Celsius year-round. The rainy season runs from March to May and from September to November, while the dry season is from December to February and from June to August. However, it is important to note that Kampala can experience sudden and intense rain showers at any time of year, so it is best to always carry an umbrella.

9. Can I use my credit card in Kampala?

While credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops in Kampala, it is best to carry cash with you as not all establishments have the necessary equipment to accept card payments. ATMs are widely available in Kampala, but it is best to use those located inside established banks for safety reasons.

10. Do I need a visa to visit Kampala?

Most visitors to Uganda will need a visa to enter the country, which can be obtained from the nearest Ugandan embassy or consulate. However, some Nationals can obtain a visa upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport. It is recommended to check the specific visa requirements for your country before traveling to Kampala.

Final Thoughts

Kampala is a bustling city with a rich cultural heritage and many attractions to explore. While it is important to take precautions to stay safe, Kampala can be a relatively easy and enjoyable city to navigate for tourists. By understanding the local culture, currency, and transportation options, you can have an enjoyable and memorable experience visiting this vibrant African city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kampala

Kampala is the bustling capital city of Uganda, known for its vibrant culture and history. As a tourist, there is so much to see and do in Kampala, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step plan for how to make the most of your time in Kampala.

Step 1: Explore the Historical Sites

Start your trip to Kampala with a visit to the historical sites. Uganda Museum is a great place to start. It is the largest and oldest museum in Uganda, with over 100,000 historical artifacts in its collection. Here, you can get a good understanding of the history and culture of Uganda. Next, visit the Kasubi Tombs. They are the burial grounds of the Ugandan kings and have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will see the traditional architecture of the Baganda people and their rituals.

Step 2: Visit the Local Markets

Kampala has a bustling marketplace where you can buy all manner of souvenirs and gifts for your loved ones. One of the most famous markets is Owino Market. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in African fabrics, clothing, and jewelry. Just make sure to be careful and avoid pickpockets who are abundant within the market. Another local market to visit is Nakasero Market which mainly supplies the capital city Kampala with fresh food. Here, you will find fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices. You can even pick up some local Ugandan dishes.

Step 3: Take a City Tour

If walking around the city alone isn’t your thing, it’s best to explore the city with a tour guide. Many companies offer walking tours that cover everything from history to culture, politics, art and local life of the Ugandan people. Alternatively, you can hire a boda boda (motorcycle taxi) driver as they know the city like the back of their hand; they will show you the less touristy places at a fair price.

Step 4: Tour the Religious Sites

Kampala is a city with diverse religions, and visiting the religious sites can provide unique insights into the city’s early history. One of the most notable religious sites is the Baha’i Temple, which is the only temple of its kind in Africa. The temple’s iconic dome shape is a landmark of Kampala. Another religious site worth visiting is the Namirembe Cathedral, which is part of the Anglican Church. The cathedral was built-in 1903 and has stunning architecture, with stained glass windows featuring biblical images. Make sure to dress modestly to respect the religious customs.

Step 5: Enjoy the Nightlife

Kampala is a city that never sleeps; it is known for its vibrant and diverse nightlife. Check out the local bars and clubs, and experience the Ugandan way of partying. Head to the clubs in downtown Kampala, such as Silk Liquid Lounge and Club Amnesia. Alternatively, check out the Kampala Casino to try your luck at gambling.

Book Your Tour Now

In conclusion, Kampala is a city full of history, culture, and adventure. By following these five steps, you can make the most of your trip and experience everything Kampala has to offer. Whether you are interested in history, culture, religion, markets or nightlife, Kampala has something for every type of traveler. So book your trip to Kampala today and start exploring!
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The 8 Best Day Trips in Kampala

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!