Top Things to Do in Kampala

About the City

Kampala, the vibrant heart of Uganda, pulsates with a lively spirit that captivates both locals and visitors alike. Imagine a city where the sun smiles warmly, the bustling markets are a chaotic kaleidoscope of colors, and the energetic buzz of boda-boda motorcycles darts through the streets. It's a metropolitan dance, and everyone is invited to join! But wait, there's a twist – while the beats are infectious, the rhythm can sometimes fall out of step. For amidst the euphony, one may find themselves in a tangle of traffic, a symphony that often reaches a crescendo during peak hours. And let's not overlook the artisanal potholes that grace the roads; these unsung heroes have the dubious honor of testing both suspension systems and patience. Yet, if you embrace the imperfections and move with the flow, you'll discover the city's true charm. The food is a culinary mosaic, with rolex (not the watch) wrapping your taste buds in a delightful embrace. The nightlife? It shines resplendent, with vibrant spots lighting up as the stars wink down at the shimmering Lake Victoria. Kampala, with its idiosyncrasies and jubilation, is like a well-seasoned matoke dish – an acquired taste that, once savored, leaves a lingering zest for more.

Things to Do in Kampala

Kikomando Kick

Food & Drink

Dive into the street-food scene with Kikomando, the unsung hero of Kampala's quick bites! Picture this: chopped chapati mixed with beans, served up hot and hearty. It's both a tongue twister and a bel...

Ziplining Zest

Outdoors

Strap in and zip through the forest canopy like a modern-day Tarzan (or Jane)! Feel the wind rush by, watch birds fly under you (!), and get an aerial view that's normally reserved for drones!

Craft Market Connoisseur

The Unexpected

Embark on a treasure hunt in the craft markets of Kampala! Weave your way through a maze of vibrant stalls, and score yourself some unique Ugandan handicrafts. Be bold, bargain like a boss, and find t...

Palate-Pleasing Pilawo Pursuit

The Unexpected

Embark on a rice quest and let your taste buds revel in the glory of pilawo, Uganda's take on the aromatic pilaf. Every spoonful is a celebration of spices – you might just end up doing a happy-foodie...

Immersive Theater Thrill

The Unexpected

Get your drama fix by diving into an immersive theater experience, where the action happens around you, and you might just become part of the show. It's live entertainment with a side of surprises!

Coffee Connoisseur Crawl

The Unexpected

Journey through java heaven by hopping between Kampala's coziest cafés! Sip on Uganda's finest brews, from the robust to the subtle, and let the caffeine kickstart your day in the most delightful way....

Cycling Circuit

Outdoors

Put the pedal to the metal and cycle your way through Kampala's less-traveled paths. Zip past marketplaces, whizz by historic landmarks, and challenge your quads with some sneaky uphill stretches. Bet...

Botanic Bonanza

Outdoors

Flora fans, unite! Meander through a verdant paradise where the trees are older than your grandpa. Swap honking cars for hummingbirds, and strut your stuff with the swinging monkeys. Remember to stop ...

Peak Performance

Outdoors

Earn your street cred with a trek to the top of Kampala's peaks. Lace up those hiking boots and conquer the hills. Reward yourself with jaw-dropping, panoramic views and a sense of victory that'll mak...

Kayak Kapade

Outdoors

Paddle battle on the water! Glide across Lake Victoria with nothing but your kayak, the sun kissing your shoulders, and the lake's gentle waves for company. It's part exercise, part meditation, and to...

Gonja Gastronomy

Food & Drink

Peel back the thrill with gonja, the tantalizing fried plantain that's Uganda's answer to the French fry. Unlike its slim cousin, gonja brings hearty, chunky slices of sweet plantain to your snack gam...

Makerere University Stroll

Sights

Play the part of a knowledgeable scholar at one of Africa's oldest and most prestigious universities – Makerere. Rub elbows with the brilliant minds of tomorrow, bask in the academic vibes, and hey, d...

Gaddafi National Mosque Visit

Sights

Get sky-high views without deploying your parachute at the Gaddafi National Mosque! Climb the minaret, pretend to be a muezzin for a hot second, and treat your eyes to 360-degree views of Kampala. Rel...

Gardens & Chill

Sights

Lose yourself in the lushness of the Botanical Gardens in Entebbe. It's a splash of green with birds chirping, monkeys swinging, and the feeling of being in Mother Nature's living room.

Art Aficionado Adventure

Sights

Unleash your inner Picasso and stride through the kaleidoscope of art at the Afriart Gallery; it's a visual feast with paintings and sculptures shouting 'Look at me!' from every corner.

Buganda Heritage Hike

Sights

March into the majestic Mengo Palace, where Buganda royalty once frolicked and history hangs heavy in the air. This isn't just a building, it's a journey through time – minus the flux capacitor!

Nsenene Nibble

Food & Drink

Leap into local flavor with a crunchy munch of Nsenene (grasshoppers)! These little hoppers are a seasonal treat, usually fried to a crisp and seasoned to taste. It's like popcorn, but with wings and ...

Posho Power Play

Food & Drink

Get yourself a plate of posho (also known as 'ugali'), the ultimate Ugandan comfort food that's all about the carbs! Made from maize flour and water, this starchy delight forms a doughy goodness that ...

Beans & Posho Pleasure Hunt

Food & Drink

Join the legume legion with a plate heaving with beans and posho. In this culinary quest, the earthy flavors of beautifully simmered beans team up with the dense, delightful posho for a true taste of ...

Tuk-Tuk Town Tour

The Unexpected

Hop into a tuk-tuk and take a tour with a twist! These three-wheeled wonders are a quirky way to navigate Kampala's nooks and crannies. Chat up your driver, learn the local lingo, and feel the buzz as...