Kampala Introduction - Location, Attractions & History

Once called the City of the Seven Hills, Kampala sprawls till the northern shore of iconic Lake Victoria. Located in the heart of Uganda, the metropolis has been its de facto capital since the 14th century, when King Kato Kintu, the founder of the Buganda royal dynasty, chose the region for his administrative base. Future Buganda kings welcomed Muslim traders and British explorers. This nexus of cultures can still be enjoyed by traveling around the fusion city of Kampala (best time to go), where you can experience a melange of colonial and contemporary architecture, ancient royal monuments and the generous hospitality of Uganda’s warm and welcoming people.

Taking its name from the Luganda language’s term for “Hill of the Impala,” Kampala is built on what was once undulating green hills, fields of grass and wetlands. Today, it is a fascinating, cosmopolitan city with many attractions and tourist hotspots. A 50-kilometer (30-mile) part toll drive from Entebbe International Airport, metropolitan Kampala welcomes many guests on safari vacations and business people. Visitors to the five districts can spend their days enjoying the city’s heritage architecture, National Museum, and local craft galleries before whiling away their evenings sampling Uganda's widest range of restaurants and nightclubs.

Key Takeaways

• Formerly called the City of the Seven Hills located in the center of Uganda - north of Lake Victoria.
• Takes its name from the Luganda term for “Hill of the Impala”
• Capital of the country since the 14th century when King Kato Kintu moved his administrative base here
• Melting pot of cultures including traditional and contemporary elements
• Has a wide selection of attractions to pique the interest of all kinds of visitors

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Travel Guide Content - Start Here

1. What Are The Other Experiences Around Kampala?

What Are The Areas Of Interest In Kampala

2. Historical Overview Of Kampala

3. Insider Guide To The Neighborhoods Of Kampala

1. What Are The Other Experiences Around Kampala?

Key Takeaways

• Has a plethora of shopping malls and craft centers offering global and authentic Ugandan products
• Selection of leisure options such as restaurants, cafes, night clubs, cinemas, and more
• Makindye District offering watersports and aqua activities on Lake Victoria

Kampala’s plethora of shopping malls, local markets and craft centers offers visitors a staggering array of items, from international brands to unique products showcasing the creativity of local artisans. Kampala is a global hub with various leisure options such as restaurants, cafes, night clubs, movie theaters and cultural venues. You will find high-end hotels and other accommodation options to match the budget and preferences of every kind of traveler. The Makindye district, on the shores of Lake Victoria, offers an array of water sports. Nearby sanctuaries provide an intimate introduction to Uganda’s wildlife before traveling to the major bush reserves, which teem with an incredible diversity of flora and fauna.

What Are The Areas Of Interest In Kampala?

2. Historical Overview Of Kampala

Key Takeaways

• Location of the 1881 Kasubi Tombs, a recognized UNESCO World Heritage site. Mengo Hill in Kampala used by the British as their capital on arrival in 1890
• Capital of the country post-independence when Milton Obote became president. Site of political and social turmoil under the rule of Idi Amin
• Now a peaceful city showcasing rebuilding efforts with modern construction and infrastructure

Take a trip through history with a visit to the Kasubi Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates to 1881. The British arrived in Uganda in 1890’s and, using Mengo Hill as a base, were able to extend their protectorate and influence over the Bunyoro, Ankole and Toro principalities. For a short while, the British moved their capital to Entebbe; after the country achieved independence, Kampala became the preferred location for the new administration.

Post-independence, Milton Obote became the first president of Uganda, serving for about nine years before being overthrown in a military coup by former sergeant Idi Amin. The rule of the late Amin ushered in a dark era of political and social turmoil, during which Uganda declared war against neighboring Tanzania. As the capital, Kampala took the brunt of not just the war, but also Amin's attempts to evict the Asian population and attack resident Jews. Idi Amin's 1979 exile to Libya returned the country to peace, marked by a large-scale public effort to rebuild the country. Spending holiday time in both the city and the country, you will see many signs of the rejuvenation efforts in the form of elegant new construction and glittering facades.

3. Insider Guide To The Neighborhoods Of Kampala

Central Kampala - Key Takeaways

• Administrative hub of the city
• Heritage building blending beautifully with contemporary structures giving the town a unique character
• Lugard Fort on Old Kampala Hill and various other tourist attractions

Functioning under the administration of the Kampala City Council Authority, the Central Division is the largest sector of the city. It is a fascinating melting pot where Kampala’s heritage buildings blend seamlessly with contemporary structures. You will enjoy touring Kampala-Jinja Road and taking in panoramic views of the beautiful, yet chaotic city from Old Kampala Hill, Nakasero Hill and Kololo Hill. Look out for notable buildings such as the Bank of Uganda, Workers House, Nile Hotel and Conference Centre, Kampala Boulevard, Crested Towers, Telecommunications House, Nakivubo Stadium, National Theatre and the Sheraton Hotel.

Of particular interest to visitors is Lugard Fort on Old Kampala Hill. Built by Captain Lugard, the first Governor of the British protectorate, the fort stands as a reminder of Uganda’s colonial past. The Uganda National Mosque and Nommo Art Gallery at Nakasero are some other special attractions. If you would like to go holiday shopping while in Kampala, you can find fabulous craft stores within the central region.

Lubaga (also known as Rubaga) - Key Takeaways

• Historical significance as the residential base of the Buganda kings from 1724 to 1884 when the royal palace burned down
• Given to the Catholic White Fathers who built Rubaga Cathedral on the location
• Other attractions include Kabaka’s Lake, Lubiri Palace, Buganda Parliament, and Kasubi Tombs Crafts store

Located on the west side of Kampala, Lubaga has great historical significance, having served as the residential base for the Buganda kings since 1724. Lubaga continued to hold an exalted position as the military headquarters of the kingdom until 1884. During the time of King Mutesa I Mukabya Walugembe Kayiira, the royal palace burned down and the king relocated his administrative complex. Eventually, Lubaga Hill was given to the Catholic White Fathers, who built Rubaga Cathedral on the site.

Lubaga is also famous for many other tourist attractions such as the Kasubi Tombs, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Serving as a burial site for the four kings of Buganda, the incredible structure was built entirely of natural materials. When spending vacation time in Kampala, you can shop for exquisite souvenirs and mementos at arts and crafts markets such as the Musigula Mbugo, Andrew’s Artistry, Kasubi Tombs Crafts store and Sikyomu Drum Makers at Busega. The scenic Kabaka’s Lake, the oldest surviving man-made lake in Uganda, along with Lubiri Palace and Buganda Parliament are other places of interest.

Kawempe - Key Takeaways

• Located on the northwestern area of Kampala about eight kilometers from the city center
• Baha’i Temple, only one on the African continent on Kikaya Hill
• Makerere University, known for its impressive and stately architecture

On the northwestern edge of Kampala, the Kawempe district sits about eight kilometers from the city center. This area affords views of some of the capital’s finest architectural examples. The distinctively domed Baha’i Temple, the only one of its kind on the African continent, stands on Kikaya Hill along the artery connecting Kampala to Gayaza. Visitors to the shrine can relax in a natural paradise set apart from the hustle and bustle of urban Kampala.

Also located within Kawempe is the famous Makerere University. With impressive architecture, the university was famous as the only center for higher learning in East Africa until 1954. It lies about three kilometers to the north of the city center, atop Makerere Hill. The educational institution also serves as a research facility and conference venue.

Makindye - Key Takeaways

• Offering views of Murchison Bay, the southeastern section of Lake Victoria, and Wakiso District
• Home to famous artists, upscale nightlife events and political figures
• Possibility of indulging in various water activities on the lake along with horseback riding and birding excursions

Gracing the south of Kampala is the Makindye Hill. Visit this area on your vacation, and you will be treated to sweeping views of Murchison Bay, the southeastern part of Lake Victoria and Wakiso District. This district may well be called the creative sector of the city since many famous artists and political figures live and work here. You will also find that it has a happening nightlife, with many restaurants, nightclubs, bars and entertainment hotspots. During the day, check out the studios of renowned musicians, filmmakers and theater icons.

Makindye also offers lakeside accommodations that provide opportunities to enjoy a range of water activities. Go canoeing and fishing or take an evening cruise for stunning views of the setting sun over the water. Horseback-riding and birdwatching are other enjoyable activities to do while spending vacation time in the Makindye district.

Nakawa - Key Takeaways

• Has several avenues for entertainment including an amusement park, aquatic center, and fitness center visited by locals
• Location of the esteemed Makerere University Business School
• Venues for enjoying sporting events and sampling the delicious cuisines of Uganda

Making up the eastern border of the city of Kampala is the Nakawa district. Serving as the city’s ad hoc pleasure district for residents of Kampala, Nakawa is host to the Kiwatule Recreation Center, boasting an amusement park with play areas, an aquatic habitat and the Kakira Express train ride. Shop for holiday souvenirs and mementos at malls and boutiques like Bugolobi African Creations, Luzira Prisons Crafts and Village Mall Bugolobi, then spend your evenings in the clubs and bars or catch a movie in one of the cinemas. As the expert guide assigned to you by AfricanMecca Safaris will show you the famed Makerere University Business School that is also located here.

Get a taste of Kampala’s love for sports with visits to the Lugogo cricket and tennis grounds. When you’ve worked up an appetite, taste the delicious nyama choma (meat barbecue) at the Kyadondo Rugby Club or indulge in local cuisine. More notable attractions that you must explore on your trip are the picturesque Mutungo, Naguru and Mbuya Hills, the Nakawa Commonwealth Veterans Cemetery, and Port Bell Pier. The pier on the eastern edge of the district serves as the prime terminal for goods and commuter vessels plying Lake Victoria.

What Attractions & Tour Activities To Experience During Your Kampala Visit?

Key Takeaways

• Incredible melting pot of cultures and historical remnants dating back to the time of the traditional kings of Uganda
• Various architectural wonders that showcase religious tolerance and harmony
• Shopping expeditions for authentic arts and crafts and global merchandise
• Visit conservation sites such as Serenada Eco Tourism Wilderness, Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Center, Uganda Reptile Village
• Experience a diversity of spiritual attraction sites such as Africa’s only Baha’i Temple, mosques, Hindu temples, a Jewish Synagogue, cathedrals and a remnant of the Bachwezi Empire - the Nakayima Tree

The city of Kampala is a fascinating melting pot of cultures with a long and illustrious history that began with the reign of the Buganda kings. As you tour the city, you will be able to visit many fascinating sites that stand testament to those times. Visit the Kasubi Tombs for a glimpse of Uganda’s royal past, before going on to explore the Uganda National Mosque and the early colonial-era Namirembe and Rubaga Cathedrals. The more unique Baha’i Temple, Muslims mosques, Hindu temples, Kampala Jewish Synagogue and Nakayima Tree all attest to the religious harmony and diversity that prevails in Uganda. Round out your tour by sampling Uganda’s impressive range of arts and crafts with a trip to the Uganda Museum and Craft Village on Buganda Road.

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Our Top 12 Tour Activities In Kampala - Things You Can Do & See

Activities Content - Start Here

1. Tour Of The Baha’i Temple

2. Shop At The Craft Village On Buganda Road

3. Visit The Uganda National Mosque

4. Rubaga Cathedral Viewing

5. Uganda Museum Visit

6. Namirembe Cathedral Viewing

7. Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Center Visit

8. Serenada Eco Tourism Wilderness Trip

9. Tour Of The Hindu Temples In Kampala

10. Uganda Reptile Village Excursion

11. Kampala Jewish Synagogue Visit

12. Excursion To The Nakayima Tree

1. Tour Of The Baha’i Temple

Key Takeaways

• One of the only such temples on the continent of Africa
• Standing on a 50-acre property on Kikaya Hill
• Spectacular architectural design created by Charles Mason Remey

The Baha’i Temple is the only one of its kind on the continent of Africa. Standing atop Kikaya Hill on about 50-acre on the outer edge of the city of Kampala (where to stay), the temple is properly termed a “Mashriqu'l-Adhkar” meaning “The Dawning Place of the Praise of God”. Its architectural design with a massive green dome was created by Charles Mason Remey. The Baha’i faith was introduced to Uganda in 1952 and the temple started its construction in 1958 and completed in January 1961. Kampala offers the opportunity to visit a monument so rare that it numbers one of only seven major worldwide, and no matter your faith you will enjoy spending some relaxing spiritual holiday time here, enjoying the peace and serenity of the temple’s lushly landscaped tropical garden.

2. Shop At The Craft Village On Buganda Road

Key Takeaways

• Shopping at the Crafts Village where handcrafted items are available
• Enjoy a bargaining session which is an acceptable pursuit
• Selection of canvas art, colorful textile, pottery, musical instruments, beaded jewelry, souvenir utensils and many more

When in Kampala, you must take the time to go shopping at the Craft Village on Buganda Road. Browse around the varied stalls selling fantastic curios and knickknacks to take home as mementos of your vacation in Africa. Be sure to pick up a kitenge, a kind of sarong with brightly colored, intricate textile prints, which can be used as a skirt, tablecloth, bed covering or even a commemorative wall hanging. You will also find leather sandals, woven bags, carvings, jewelry, keychains, flutes, drums of different shapes and sizes and clay pots. Remember to ask for the best price, because bargaining is the norm; though, be reasonable in your negotiating proposals.

3. Visit The Uganda National Mosque

Key Takeaways

• Standing on the site of the Captain Lugard’s Fort that was dismantled during the reign of Idi Amin
• Construction commissioned in 1972 and eventually completed in 2006
• Stunning specimen of Islamic architecture showcasing fabulous pillars, sparkling glass chandeliers, and intricate mosaics

The Uganda National Mosque was constructed on the site of Captain Lugard’s Fort in Kampala. During the reign of Idi Amin, the fort was dismantled and moved to make space for the Uganda National Mosque, also formerly known as Muammar Gaddafi Mosque. The structure is an extraordinary example of Islamic architecture, with minimalist facades surmounted by domes that shimmer in the bright African sun. This unassuming front conceals fabulous pillars, glass chandeliers and complex mosaics.

During your visit to the mosque, don’t forget to take off your footwear at the doorway, wear modest dressing that covers your legs, chest and hands, and the women need to wear a headscarf. When your visit to the interiors praying halls is complete, you can request your guide to climb to the apex of the minaret for stunning views of Old Kampala. Although the Mosque was commissioned in 1972, construction halted upon the dictator’s exile in 1979 and the mosque was not completed until 2006. Today the mosque is one of the region’s largest, with space for 15,000 Muslim worshippers.

4. Rubaga Cathedral Viewing

Key Takeaways

• Also called St. Mary’s Cathedral Rubaga, built on land donated in 1889 by esteemed Buganda King Mwanga II (Danieri Basammula-Ekkere Mwanga II Mukasa)
• Built in Romanesque styles much like the structures in South America and Europe
• Final resting place of first African Catholic bishop in Uganda

In the late 1800s, during the reign of the esteemed Buganda king Mwanga II, Bishop Hirth (part of French Catholic missionaries - White Fathers) was granted land on Rubaga Hill in Central Kampala to build a house of worship. The subsequent structure, Rubaga Cathedral, is built in a Romanesque style similar to contemporaneous cathedrals in South America and Europe. Also called St. Mary's Cathedral Rubaga, it has two belfries and interiors adorned with mosaics and exquisite paintings in vibrant colors. On your tour of the cathedral you are likely to notice traces of both European and African artistic styles. Joseph Kiwanuka, the first African Catholic bishop in Uganda, is interred here.

5. Uganda Museum Visit

Key Takeaways

• Located on Kira Road close to the British High Commission in Kampala
• Culture village designed to educate visitors on the heritage of Uganda
• Peaceful gardens where vacationers can spend time

Located within green gardens on Kira Road, close to the British High Commission, is the Uganda Museum. A giant cannon graces the entrance. As you wander through the building, you can see many remnants and relics of Uganda’s long and fascinating history. Enjoy exploring the culture village, a magnet for kids, and view the many displays that depict Uganda’s diverse heritage. Ask all the questions you want and keep an ear open for an impromptu demonstration of a musical instrument. You can also spend some quiet time reveling in the peace of the gardens before moving on to the next stop on your city tour.

6. Namirembe Cathedral Viewing

Key Takeaways

• Also called Saint Paul's Cathedral Namirembe, and is the oldest Protestant Church in Uganda
• Dismantled and reconstructed four times since its original establishment in 1890
• A beautiful organ is one of the most striking features

Namirembe Cathedral is the oldest Protestant church in Uganda. Also called St. Paul's Cathedral Namirembe, was originally completed in 1890. Over the years it has been brought down and reconstructed four times, with the most recent version built between 1915 and 1919. At the time, ceramic roof tiles and earthen bricks were used in the construction. In more recent times, the church was renovated once again and the dome was given a glossy finish. The most striking feature of this famous cathedral is its organ, dating to 1931. Should you travel to the Lubaga district, the expert guide assigned to you by AfricanMecca Safaris will explain the fascinating history of the cathedral’s multiple incarnations.

7. Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Center Visit

Key Takeaways

• Sanctuary showcasing few of the rich and diverse wildlife of the country
• Rehabilitation home to some of the Big Five of Africa along with a range of other terrestrial life
• Sightings of avian life, reptile and children’s recreation area

For an introduction to some of the wildlife that you can find in the diverse parks and reserves of Uganda, there is no point for tourists to visit the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Center. It is primarily geared for local residents and school children to visit for their enrichment and enlightenment of the importance of fauna conservation in Uganda. Opened in 1952 by the former colonial government In Uganda, this zoo-like sanctuary rehabilitates injured and orphaned animals giving Ugandans an opportunity to get up close and personal with some of Uganda’s most incredible wildlife.

Located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from the heart of the city, the UWEC houses some of Africa’s Big Five, including the lion, leopard, baby elephant and rhino. You can also see red-tailed monkeys, giraffes, waterbucks, chimpanzees, zebras and the Uganda kob. Among the avian life, look out for the African fish eagle, peacock, shoebill stork, ostrich and pelican, to name a few. The center also has a children’s recreation area and reptile section. Please note there are photo opportunities for petting and feeding; however, AfricanMecca does not recommend engaging in these activities if you decide to visit the center on your own accord.

8. Serenada Eco Tourism Wilderness Trip

Key Takeaways

• Can be reached by taking a 35-minute boat ride from Ggaba Beach
• Sanctuary comprising of a papyrus jungle, tropical forests, a beach, and landscaped gardens
• Sightings of more than 220 diverse species of avian life

Accessible via a 35-minute boat ride from Ggaba beach, the Serenada Eco Tourism Wilderness is a haven for birdwatchers and home to many species of gorgeous butterflies. The area is on the banks of Lake Victoria. While on your tour of Kampala you must visit the sanctuary, which boasts a papyrus jungle, two tropical forests, a beach and beautifully landscaped gardens, along with a section of Mount Kyasa. Look for over 220 species of birds, including the white egret, hammerkopf, grey-crowned crane and many more. Also spot avian insects like the butterfly and dragonfly. Activities include fishing, lake cruising, biking around the villages, canoeing and nature walks. A visit to the wilderness area is combined with a day or overnight stay at Serenada Eco Resort.

9. Tour Of The Hindu Temples In Kampala

Key Takeaways

• Shree Sanatan Dharma Mandal (SSDM) located close to Nakasero Market
• Built out of sandstone without the use of steel girders or nails, a marvelous architectural specimen
• Decorated on Diwali with thousands of small candles called dewas and traditional dance celebrations during Navratri

The Shree Sanatan Dharma Mandal (SSDM) is a Hindu temple near Kampala’s Nakasero Market and a fine symbol of religious tolerance in Uganda. Perhaps the temple’s most notable feature is that it is built out of sandstone without the use of any steel girders or iron nails. It is lavishly decorated with Hindu symbols. Should you take a trip out to the shrine during Diwali, the Festival of Lights, you will find it splendidly lit with thousands of small candles called “dewas.”. Another best time to visit the temple is during Navratri (festival of the victory of Good over Evil). To reach the shrine you must climb up many stairs; Hindus believe that as you traverse the stairs you leave behind your sins and reach God, pure in mind and body.

10. Uganda Reptile Village Excursion

Key Takeaways

• Located on the highway connecting Kampala and Entebbe
• Experienced snake handlers to display and educate visitors on the characteristics of the specimens
• Certain species known to live for up to 40 years

Reptile lovers, including those with phobias, do travel to the community based Uganda Reptile Village, on the highway connecting Kampala (best time to visit) and Entebbe. The experienced snake handlers on site will allow you to interact with and learn more about the 20 species that live here, including pythons, vipers, cobras and mambas, among others. Watch the snakes as they coil and wrap around the handlers, flashing their tongues to gather scents from their surroundings. Given the sanctuary’s ideal conditions, some of its snakes can live for up to 40 years. Precaution is taken to ensure the safety of its visitors around the varied specimens; though, the risk is always there.

11. Kampala Jewish Synagogue Visit

Key Takeaways

• Located on Mbogo Road in Kibuli, center for the Jewish faith
• Houses the Monaco Institute of Science, which offers learners lessons in the Hebrew language and literature
• Fixed timings from Monday to Saturday when worshippers and visitors can visit

The Kampala Jewish Synagogue, located on Mbogo Road in Kibuli, serves as a center of Jewish worship. It is also a regional Jewish studies center, accommodating learners from Ethiopia, Eritrea and all over Uganda. The building houses the Monaco Institute of Science, which offers lessons in Hebrew language and literature, along with continuing education courses to help learners from all walks of life understand the faith. The synagogue has fixed timings all through the week for prayer except Sundays where it ends the Havdalah - the end of Shabbat and beginning of the new week; if you would like to pray, you can plan your trip according to these timings. The Jewish community follows the philosophy, “The world stands on three things: On Torah, Worship, and acts of Kindness.”

12. Excursion To The Nakayima Tree

Key Takeaways

• Remnant of the Bachwezi Empire ruled by three kings, Ndahura, Mulindwa and Wamara
• Center of folklore and myths that whisper about their sudden disappearance
• Held in reverence by Ugandan women who offer prayers to the spirit of Nakayima who lives in the tree

The Nakayima Tree is a remnant of the Bachwezi Empire, which is surrounded by many myths and fascinating lore. The empire was ruled by three kings: Ndahura, Mulindwa and Wamara. Oral traditions state that they were tall, regal cattle-rearers who mysteriously appeared and then vanished equally strangely, leaving only the mystical Nakayima Tree to mark their presence. This religious monument stands on a hill that offers views of the Mubende town. Traveling to the site is part of a full day tour as the site is about 155 kilometers from Kampala. Here, Ugandan women circle the tree paying homage to the spirit of Nakayima, a favourite medium of King Ndahura, while a Jjaja, the shrine guardian, prescribes rituals that must be undertaken to have any chance of receiving favours from her.