Best Places to Visit in Kampala

Kampala is the capital city of Uganda, and the places to visit in Kampala range from royal tombs and shrines to museums and markets.

Kampala city tour is an interesting experience any visitor would enjoy through the classic capital of Uganda accompanied by its heritage ranging from historical sites, regions, traditional rules and culture.

Tourism in Uganda is not only done in national parks and wildlife reserves but also in many places like cities. Kampala city is one of the places with a wide range of tourist attractions that tourists can explore during a city tour.

There are cultural sites, religious sites, markets, hills and water sources in Kampala that tourists can visit during the tours.

A Kampala tour comes with opportunities to see attractions like the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kasubi Tombs, Kabakas Palace, Bahai Temple, Uganda Museum, Namugongo Shrine and the National Mosque.

Tourists enjoy a heterogeneous blend of Asian, African and colorful European influences while appreciating the hospitality of the Ugandans in the City of Seven Hills.

Here’s an overview:

• Places to Visit in Kampala on a City Tour
• The Uganda Museum
• Namugongo Shrine
• The Kasubi Tombs
• Gaddafi Mosque
• Bahai Temple
• Nakasero Market
• Kabaka’s Palace
• The Ndere Cultural Center
• Where to Stay During a Tour Around Kampala
• How Much Does it Cost to Explore Kampala?
• What Is the Best Time To Visit Kampala?
• Is It Safe To Travel Around Kampala?

Places to Visit in Kampala on a City Tour

The Uganda Museum

In Kamwokya, right next to the Uganda Wildlife Authority, you’ll find the Uganda Museum, which holds the title of being the oldest museum in East Africa.

Established back in 1908, the Uganda Museum has had quite the journey, starting from Fort Lugard on Old Kampala Hill, then moving to Makerere University, and finally settling in Kamwokya due to space constraints.

When exploring Kampala on a city tour, make sure to include a stop at the Uganda Museum to immerse yourself in Uganda’s rich cultural heritage. Here, visitors can delve into Uganda’s history and witness the dedicated efforts of the staff to preserve these invaluable collections.

At the Uganda Museum, you’ll encounter a fascinating array of historical and cultural artifacts, from animal skulls to vintage vehicles, from artist medals to cultural artifacts, and much more.

Beyond the museum lies a cultural village showcasing various aspects of trips around the country.

During their visit, visitors can also explore wooden milk pots, baskets, knives, backcloths, vessels, and other intriguing items.

Namugongo Shrine

Namugongo Shrine, situated in Namugongo, holds significant religious importance in Uganda.

This sacred site marks the tragic events of 1885, 1886, and 1887, when 22 Catholics and 23 Anglicans were martyred on the orders of Mwanga II, the then Kabaka of Buganda.

The memorial site is meticulously maintained, and every June, Uganda commemorates the lives of these Christian martyrs.

During a tour of Kampala, visitors keen on exploring religious history can pay a visit to the Uganda Martyrs Shrine in Namugongo. Here, they can delve deeper into the events of the past.

The shrine offers a serene setting with the Martyrs Lake, historic priests’ quarters, the church, and a pavilion for contemplation during visits.

The Kasubi Tombs

The Kasubi Tombs sit atop a hill in Kampala known as Kasubi Hill.

These tombs are renowned for serving as the final resting place for Buganda kings and their close kin.

Exploring the site allows visitors to pay respects at the royal tombs of four Buganda kings: Muteesa I, Mwanga II, Daudi Chwa II, and Sir Edward Muteesa II.

For those seeking top spots to explore in Kampala, Kasubi Tombs should definitely make the list. A trip to these tombs offers a rich insight into Buganda culture.

The traditional construction of the Kasubi tombs, adorned with various vegetation coverings, led to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. A fire destroyed the main buildings in March 2010. They were rebuilt, and UNESCO removed the site from its List of World Heritage in Danger in 2023.

Gaddafi Mosque

The Gaddafi Mosque, renamed the Uganda National Mosque in 2013, is the biggest mosque in Uganda and stands in the heart of Kampala.

Travelers keen on diving into Islam’s teachings and the mosque’s rich history can swing by for a prayer session and a deep dive into its past.

The mosque was completed in 2006 with funding from Muammar Gaddafi, the former Libyan leader, and opened in 2007.

Bahai Temple

The Bahai Temple is one of the places to visit in Kampala that you can’t miss, sitting atop Kikaaya Hill in Kanyanya along Gayaza Road.

This sacred site welcomes followers of the Bahai faith for worship. To delve deeper into the origins and beliefs of this faith, visitors should explore the temple with a local guide who will provide insightful information about the site.

Nakasero Market

Nakasero Market, on Nakasero Hill, stands as Uganda’s most historic market.

When in Kampala, visitors can explore Nakasero Market to discover the range of goods typical of Kampala markets.

With a friendly guide leading the way, you’ll have the chance to browse through a colorful assortment of produce like vegetables, matoke, fish, meat, and craft shops showcasing African-inspired treasures brimming with natural beauty.

Kabaka’s Palace

Kabaka’s Palace, situated just a short drive from Kabaka’s Lake on Rubaga Road, is another stop worth making in Kampala.

As the primary palace of the Buganda Kingdom, it offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of this region.

Exploring the palace allows tourists to learn about its construction, as well as the line of kings who have presided over Buganda throughout the years.

The Ndere Cultural Center

Ndere Cultural Center in Bukoto Kampala is a center for traditional music and drama.

If you’re keen on immersing yourself in Ugandan culture and traditions, this spot belongs on your list. You’ll be treated to captivating dances and music representing various Ugandan tribes.

The dancers wear traditional attire, showcasing the rich diversity of Uganda’s cultures. Witnessing their performances in these colorful garments is a highlight for any tourist.

Where to Stay During a Tour Around Kampala

Travelers looking to explore various tourist spots in Kampala and needing a place to stay for a night or longer have a range of accommodation options.

These include budget, mid-range, and luxury choices, allowing visitors to select based on their travel budget.

Among the lodges in Kampala are Kampala Serena Hotel, Four Points by Sheraton, Fairway Hotel, Hotel Latitude O Degrees, and Bush Pig Hotel.

How Much Does it Cost to Explore Kampala?

We can’t give an exact figure on exploring Kampala, but what we can tell you is that it’s budget-friendly.

The cost of exploring Kampala varies based on the type of experience you’re after and the duration of your stay.

With a range of activities available in Kampala, pricing can be influenced by group size, preferred activities, and length of stay. Additionally, the mode of transportation and choice of accommodation, whether for a single night or an extended visit, will also impact the overall cost.

Related read: How Much Does a Uganda Safari Cost?

What Is the Best Time To Visit Kampala?

Tourists can check out Kampala any day to discover the various attractions spread throughout the city.

For drier days, the best time to visit is during the dry season from June to September and December to February. These months offer sunny days with minimal rainfall, perfect for enjoying all the activities the city has to offer.

Is It Safe To Travel Around Kampala?

When a reliable tour operator arranges your Kampala city tour, exploring the city becomes a breeze.

Staying together in a group and keeping an eye on your belongings, like your travel bag, will ensure a smooth and safe city adventure.

It’s best to avoid potentially unsafe spots like the slums, where unsavory characters might be present.

Remember, it’s wise for tourists to avoid flaunting their gadgets to prevent any unwanted attention from potential thieves.

Get in touch with Africa Adventure Vacations to book your Kampala tour: