The 10 Best Things to Do in Kampala & Entebbe, Uganda

Start your journey into the heart of Uganda with unforgettable experiences in Kampala and Entebbe — the vibrant capital and its serene lakeside neighbor. Whether you’re arriving for a safari adventure or ending your trip with a peaceful lakeside retreat, Kampala and Entebbe are must-visit destinations that offer a unique blend of culture, history, wildlife, nightlife, and local flavor.

At Uganda Horizon Safaris, we believe every journey should begin and end with meaning. That’s why we encourage our guests to explore these two dynamic cities, rich in personality and authentic Ugandan charm. From cultural landmarks to lakeside sunsets, culinary delights to chimpanzee encounters — Kampala and Entebbe are full of surprises.

Here are the 10 best things to do in Kampala and Entebbe that we highly recommend for every visitor to Uganda.

1. Visit the Uganda Museum – Discover Uganda’s Rich Heritage (Kampala)

Begin your cultural journey with a trip to the Uganda Museum, East Africa’s oldest museum. It houses a fascinating collection of artifacts, traditional music instruments, ethnographic exhibits, and historical records — a perfect introduction to the country’s diverse tribes and past.

🟡 Optional Activity: Guided heritage tour with our local experts

2. Explore the Ndere Cultural Center – Traditional Music and Dance (Kampala)

Celebrate Uganda’s vibrant culture with a live performance at the Ndere Cultural Center, featuring traditional dance and music from all regions of Uganda. The colorful costumes and rhythmic drumming make this an unforgettable evening.

🟡 Optional Activity: Dinner & show combo with local cuisine.

3. Take a Boat Safari to Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary (Entebbe)

One of the top wildlife experiences in Uganda is just a boat ride from Entebbe. Ngamba Island is home to over 50 rescued chimpanzees cared for in a semi-wild environment. Watch the chimps during their feeding times and support a conservation success story.

🟡 Optional Activity: Half-day or full-day boat trips with lunch.

4. Stroll Through the Entebbe Botanical Gardens & Garuga Beach (Entebbe)

Founded in 1898, the Botanical Gardens are a lush escape where you can walk among giant fig trees, spot monkeys, colorful birds, and tropical plant species — all by the shores of Lake Victoria.

🟡 Optional Activity: Birdwatching or photography tour.

5. Visit the Kasubi Royal Tombs – UNESCO World Heritage Site (Kampala)

Delve into Buganda Kingdom history at the Kasubi Tombs, the burial grounds of four former kings (Kabakas). The thatched architecture and spiritual significance of the site offer a powerful cultural insight.

🟡 Optional Activity: Guided tour with traditional storytelling.

6. Experience a Boat Cruise on Lake Victoria (Entebbe)

Enjoy the golden hour on Africa’s largest lake with a scenic boat cruise. Glide past fishing villages, islands, and bird colonies while sipping a cold drink and taking in the calm waters.

🟡 Optional Activity: Private or group cruises with snacks and drinks.

7. Tour the Local Markets – Owino & Kitoro (Kampala & Entebbe)

Get a feel for everyday life by exploring bustling local markets. Owino Market in Kampala is famous for clothes, while Kitoro Market in Entebbe offers fresh produce, crafts, and local snacks.

🟡 Optional Activity: Guided shopping tour + street food tasting.

8. Visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC Zoo) (Entebbe)

More than a zoo, UWEC is a conservation and education center that offers up-close views of lions, giraffes, rhinos, chimps, and reptiles. It’s a great introduction to Uganda’s wildlife.

🟡 Optional Activity: Behind-the-scenes keeper experience.

9. Hike to the Bahá’í Temple – Africa’s Only Bahá’í House of Worship (Kampala)

Set on a peaceful hilltop with panoramic views, the Bahá’í Temple is a serene spiritual site surrounded by gardens and meditation paths — a place of peace for all faiths.

🟡 Optional Activity: Meditation session or garden walk.

10. Enjoy Kampala’s Nightlife & Culinary Scene (Kampala)

After dark, Kampala comes alive with live music, rooftop bars, and Ugandan cuisine. Taste local delicacies like grilled tilapia, matoke, and Rolex (egg and chapati wrap) while dancing to Afrobeat and reggae.

🟡 Optional Activity: Nightlife tour with food stops and local guide.

Make the Most of Your Uganda Trip with Uganda Horizon Safaris

Whether you’re exploring the royal history of Kampala or enjoying a lakeside breeze in Entebbe, Uganda Horizon Safaris is here to make your time memorable. We offer custom itineraries, private tours, and insider experiences that let you dive deep into Uganda’s culture and spirit. Both cities are ideal starting points for gorilla trekking, safaris, or lake escapes.

📍 Need airport transfers, day tours, or overnight accommodation? We’ve got you covered.

Travel Responsibly – Connect with the Real Uganda

At Uganda Horizon Safaris, we champion responsible travel. Every city tour, cultural performance, and wildlife visit we organize supports local communities, conservation efforts, and eco-tourism projects. Your trip will not only be rewarding — it will make a difference.

Plan Your Kampala & Entebbe Adventure Today

Let your first steps in Uganda be full of wonder. From rich cultural encounters to relaxing nature moments, Kampala and Entebbe offer everything a traveler could wish for.

🌍 Book your city experiences with Uganda Horizon Safaris — Your journey starts here.