How to plan your 1 Day Kampala City Tour in Uganda

If you’re planning to visit Uganda and want to explore the city of Kampala, a 1 day city tour is the perfect way to do it. In this blog post, we’ll be sharing with you all the information you need to plan your tour.

Overview

The 1 day Kampala City Tour is a private activity with a professional driver/guide that will take you to the popular spots in the city. The tour includes bottled drinking water and entry fees to the different tourist attractions. Personal expenses, tips, and laundry are not included.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour starts at 12:00 AM, and there are different pickup points that you can select when booking the tour. Make sure to arrive at the pickup point at least 15 minutes before the tour’s start time.

What to Expect

The professional driver/guide will take you to the following tourist attractions:

1. Uganda Museum

The Uganda Museum has a collection of ethnological, natural-historical, and traditional life exhibits. You’ll get the chance to learn about Uganda’s culture, history and see the traditional musical instruments.

2. Kabaka’s Palace

Kabaka’s Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kampala, built in the 1920s. The palace is only accessible from the outside, and you’ll have a chance to take photos and learn about its history.

3. Bahai Temple

The Bahai Temple is located on Kikaya Hill and is the only temple of its kind in Africa. It has a beautifully landscaped garden, and the temple’s interior is decorated with symbols and writings from different religions.

4. Ndere Cultural Centre

The Ndere Cultural Centre is a cultural center that promotes and preserves Uganda’s diverse cultural heritage through music, dance, and drama. You’ll witness performances that showcase the different cultures in Uganda.

Additional Information

Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Strollers can be brought, but it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time or make changes less than 24 hours before the start time, you will not be eligible for a refund.

How to Book

To book the tour, simply visit the following link: book the tour here. Make sure to select your preferred pickup point and date.

Conclusion

We hope this guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan your 1 day Kampala City Tour in Uganda. Don’t forget to bring your camera and comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking around different tourist attractions. Enjoy your tour!

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Kampala, the Bustling Capital City of Uganda

As the capital and largest city of Uganda, Kampala is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that offers a unique and authentic African urban experience. The city is a lively hub of shopping, dining, culture, and nightlife, with endless opportunities to explore and discover its many hidden treasures. In this insider’s guide, we will give you a taste of Kampala’s best attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, to help you plan your 1-day city tour itinerary.

Local Attractions to Visit

Kampala is teeming with local attractions that will keep you captivated throughout your visit. Here are some of the top-rated sights that you shouldn’t miss:

• Uganda Museum: This is the oldest and largest museum in Uganda, showcasing various aspects of the country’s culture and history. The museum displays ethnological, natural-historical, and traditional life exhibits.
• Kasubi Tombs: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kasubi Tombs is the burial place of the kings of Buganda, a major African kingdom that dominated Uganda before colonization. It offers a fascinating insight into the kingdom’s history and traditions.
• Gaddafi National Mosque: This grand edifice stands as the largest mosque in Uganda and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Islamic culture and architecture, or seeking panoramic views of Kampala.
• Bahai Temple: This masterpiece of international architecture, located on the Kikaya Hill, offers stunning views of the city and is a serene place to escape the hustle and bustle of Kampala streets.
• Namirembe Cathedral: The oldest cathedral in Uganda’s capital, Namirembe Cathedral is located on Namirembe hill and one of the historic and architecturally valued religious pieces in Uganda.
• Owino Market: Known as one of the largest outdoor markets in East Africa, this vibrant market is perfect if you’re looking for a truly local and authentic shopping experience. From fresh produce to souvenirs, this market offers a little bit of everything.

Dining Spots to Delight Your Taste Buds

Kampala’s diverse culture and cosmopolitan vibe have contributed to the widespread of food cultures in the city. In addition to the excellent local cuisine, the city offers a good range of international dishes, which are equally delectable. Here are some of our top picks:

• Khazana: An authentic Indian restaurant on Acacia Avenue offering a variety of Indian dishes, including masala dosa, butter chicken curry, paneer tikka, and naan bread.
• Le Chateau: If you’re in the mood for French cuisine, Le Chateau is an excellent choice. The restaurant offers a wide selection of French dishes, including escargots, duck confit, and all kinds of cheeses.
• Biryani House: A casual restaurant located on the busy Nasser Road that serves a variety of Indian, African, and Middle Eastern dishes, including Tandoori chicken, butter naan, chapati, pilau rice and their signature Biryani dish
• Yujo Izakaya: For those who crave the taste of the East, Yujo Izakaya is an authentic Japanese restaurant that offers a variety of sushi, sashimi, ramen, and other dishes to satisfy your cravings.
• Mukono Restaurant: One of the popular traditional restaurants in Kampala, Mukono restaurant serves a variety of local dishes made from plantain, cassava, beans, and meat, typically featuring matooke and luwombo.

Cultural Experiences to Learn About Uganda

Kampala is a melting pot of cultures, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the local way of life. Here are some cultural experiences to add to your itinerary:

• Ndere Cultural Centre: Experience the vibrant and diverse cultures of Uganda through the music, dance, and storytelling performances at the Ndere Cultural Centre. It’s a perfect place to learn about the music and culture of Uganda with a cultural touch.
• Railway Museum: Get an insight of the colonial era in Uganda by visiting the Railway Museum. It houses a unique collection of steam locomotives, carriages, and other rail-related artifacts, showcasing the most essential markets and historical routes across the country.
• Ugandan Martyrs Shrine, Namugongo: This is the site of the brutal execution of the 22 Catholic and Anglican Martyrs who were burned alive due to their religious faith. A visit to the Ugandan Martyrs Shrine in Namugongo will offer you a chance to reflect and understand the cultural and religious diversions in Ugandan society.

Local History: Must-Visit Sites

If you are a history lover, you will not be disappointed with Kampala’s historical sites. Here are some must-visit historical sites to include in your itinerary:

• Bulange Building: Located in Mengo, the Bulange Building, serves as the headquarters of the Kingdom of Buganda, one of the oldest and most influential kingdoms in Uganda.
• Makerere Art Gallery: This Gallery has been displaying art since the early fifties, and its collection reflects the history of art in Uganda. The most notable feature of its exhibition is the murals and sculptures seen around the university
• The Independent Monument: The Independent Monument marks the Independence of Uganda from the British colonizers in 1962 and can be found at the entrance of the Sheraton Kampala Hotel.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re the type of traveler who likes to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, here are some suggestions you might want to consider:

• Uganda National Museum: Located in Kitante Hill, the museum has a rich collection of historical items, from Traditional music Instruments, weaponry, archeology discoveries, and colonial and tribal art.
• Uganda Crafts 2000: This art gallery offers a variety of Ugandan crafts and locally made products, including Baganda drums, baskets, and sculptures, which are not only authentic but will leave you wanting for more.
• Mabamba Swamp: If you have the time, Mabamba Swamp should be on your list. It’s one of the best places in Uganda for bird-watching, where you can observe rare bird specie including the shoe-billed stock and find the perfect nature escape.

Conclusion

Kampala is a fascinating city, steeped in history, culture, and tradition. Whether you’re looking to visit cultural sites, indulge in local cuisine, explore off-the-beaten-path spots or soak up the vibrant nightlife, Kampala offers something for everyone. With this insider’s guide, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to plan a memorable city tour in Uganda’s largest city.