Kampala Travel Guide
Neighborhoods, getting around, day trips, safety, and food—how to plan Kampala in a practical 2–4 day itinerary.
Why visit
Kampala is lively and layered—markets, culture, and nightlife—plus it’s the springboard for Uganda’s parks and lake trips. This guide focuses on the decisions that make a trip smoother: where to base yourself, how to move around, and how to structure 2–4 days without overplanning.
Best areas to stay
- Kololo — Quieter base with restaurants and easier logistics.
- Nakasero — Central access to markets and museums; busy during the day.
- Muyenga — Hillside views and dining; good for evening plans.
Tip: choose accommodation with clear reviews on noise, walkability, and late-night transport—those details matter more than star ratings.
Getting around
Use a mix of ride-hailing, metered taxis (where reliable), and walking in dense districts. Build buffers for traffic and plan a “two-anchor” day: one major activity in the morning, one in the afternoon, with flexible time between.
Top things to do
- Start with a walking orientation: markets, main squares, and a museum/gallery to understand the city’s story.
- Schedule one “viewpoint” or waterfront/elevated spot for golden hour photos.
- Pick one signature experience (cooking class, live music, crafts, or architecture tour).
Neighborhoods and local culture
Think in zones: a historic core for sights, a modern district for restaurants and cafés, and a quieter base for sleep. If you’re visiting on a weekend, confirm what closes early and plan an indoor option in case weather shifts.
Day trips and extensions
- Lake day trip for a change of pace and cooler air.
- Cultural sites + a market visit with a guide for context and safety.
- If extending: plan an early departure toward national parks to avoid traffic.
If you’re tight on time, pick just one day trip. Two day trips often turns a 3-day city break into a transport-heavy sprint.
Common scams, safety, and etiquette
Traffic is the biggest stressor. Plan travel time buffers, avoid walking alone late in quiet areas, and keep valuables tucked away in crowded markets. Keep valuables out of sight, use reputable transport at night, and avoid “too good to be true” offers for tours or currency exchange.
Food highlights
- Try local staples in reputable restaurants before experimenting widely.
- Grilled meats and stews are common—pair with a slow café morning.
- Carry hand sanitizer and water for long days in markets.
For a confident first meal, choose busy restaurants with clear menus and strong hygiene reviews. If you’re sensitive to spice, ask what’s hot and what’s mild.
Suggested 2–4 day itinerary
- Day 1: Orientation walk + signature market + one museum.
- Day 2: Neighborhood day + food highlights + sunset viewpoint.
- Day 3: One day trip (or a second museum + slow café day).
- Day 4 (optional): Shopping, wellness, or a short excursion before onward travel.
Sources and references
For up-to-date advisories and logistics, cross-check official sources such as national tourism boards, municipal transport sites, and your embassy travel advice before departure.