Most visitors landing in Uganda make a beeline for the country’s world-famous national parks and safaris, eager for a glimpse of mountain gorillas, elephants, and lions.
But skipping Kampala — Uganda’s colorful and chaotic capital — means missing out on one of East Africa’s most surprising cultural gems.
Set among seven green hills, dotted with red-roofed houses, bustling markets, and remnants of the Buganda Kingdom, Kampala is where Uganda’s history, resilience, and creativity collide.
Once the power center of the Buganda monarchy, the city has weathered British colonialism, the brutal Idi Amin dictatorship, and political upheaval — yet it has emerged as a thriving commercial, cultural, and nightlife hub.
Today, Kampala is an intoxicating blend of “old meets new”: boda-boda motorbikes zip between shiny shopping malls and street hawkers, traditional drumming echoes through neighborhood alleys, and its all-night clubs keep the city awake until sunrise. Amid the energy, there are tranquil spots — from lakeside escapes to leafy parks — where visitors can slow down and connect with the city’s soul.
Here’s a curated guide to the 12 best things to do in Kampala, from must-see landmarks to culinary adventures and nightlife experiences.
1. Explore the Uganda National Mosque
Perched on Old Kampala Hill, this mosque — one of Africa’s largest — was completed in 2007 with support from Libya’s former leader Muammar Gaddafi. Its stunning architecture, stained glass, and soaring minaret make it a must-visit. Guided tours (around $10) offer fascinating insight into Kampala’s Muslim history, and a climb up the 272 steps of the minaret rewards you with sweeping city views.
2. Dance at Ndere Cultural Centre
Ndere is a vibrant celebration of Uganda’s diverse traditions. Every Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday, Uganda’s leading cultural troupe stages a three-hour performance of traditional dance, drumming, and storytelling in a beautifully designed open-air theatre. Founder Stephen Rwangyezi emcees the evening with witty commentary, making it as entertaining as it is educational.
3. Grab a Rolex (the Edible Kind)
Forget Swiss watches — in Kampala, a “rolex” is Uganda’s favorite street snack. Fresh chapati is rolled with an omelette, tomatoes, and onions, then served piping hot. Try the creative versions at The Rolex Guy in Muyenga, where chefs add fillings like avocado, chicken curry, or feta.
4. Party Until Sunrise
Kampala’s nightlife is legendary. Head to the Industrial Area for trendy bars, live music venues, and dance clubs, or visit Kololo for upscale rooftop lounges. Casablanca Pub & Restaurant on Acacia Avenue is a favorite for expats and locals who like to party late into the night.
5. Hop on a Boda-Boda
There’s no faster way to beat Kampala’s notorious traffic jams than on a boda-boda (motorbike taxi). It’s thrilling — and a bit nerve-wracking — but apps like SafeBoda and Uber make it safer by offering helmets and verified drivers.
6. Visit Idi Amin’s Torture Chambers
A sobering but important stop, the chambers beneath the Kabaka’s Palace tell the dark story of Idi Amin’s regime (1971–1979). More than 200,000 people are said to have been killed here. Bullet holes, crumbling tunnels, and destroyed relics — including a burnt-out Rolls-Royce — stand as a chilling reminder of Uganda’s past.
7. Discover the Kasubi Tombs
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the final resting place of four Buganda kings. Destroyed by fire in 2010, it has been painstakingly restored using traditional materials like reed, wattle, and thatch. The tombs are a powerful link to Buganda culture and spirituality.
8. Browse Kampala’s Craft Markets
Skip the chaos of Owino Market (unless you’re up for an adventure) and visit the East African Craft Village instead. Here, artisans sell woven baskets, beaded jewelry, carved wooden masks, and vibrant fabrics — perfect souvenirs to take home.
9. Feast on Matooke and Luwombo
Kampala’s food scene is deeply tied to tradition. At local restaurants like The Roots, try matooke (steamed, mashed green bananas) served with nutty groundnut sauce, or luwombo — meat or fish stewed inside banana leaves for a smoky, aromatic flavor.
10. Taste Uganda’s Legendary Fruits
Pineapples, mangoes, and papayas here are unmatched in sweetness. Grab some from street vendors in the city center — they’ll often slice and prepare the fruit for you on the spot.
11. Join Kampala’s Coffee Culture
Uganda produces some of the best Arabica coffee in the world, and Kampala’s cafés are buzzing with life. Spend a morning at Café Javas or Endiro Coffee, where freelancers and travelers sip lattes under leafy canopies.
12. Relax on the Shores of Lake Victoria
Just 20 minutes outside Kampala, Munyonyo offers scenic lakeside views, lush gardens, and boat rides. Birdwatchers should head to Lutembe Bay, home to the iconic grey crowned crane.
Why Kampala Should Be on Your Travel List
Kampala is more than a stopover — it’s a destination that invites you to engage with Uganda’s history, art, music, and cuisine before heading out on safari. It’s a place where the country’s past and present collide, offering an authentic, human connection to the Pearl of Africa.
