Although visitors to Uganda come for the country’s rolling green landscapes and abundance of wildlife, logistics mean that everyone will likely have at least one night in the capital. However, this is something to be celebrated rather than endured. Rated as the best city to live in East Africa, Kampala is a vibrant mix of the old and the new, with plenty of culture and history to delight the passing traveller. Here are some of the attractions Uganda’s capital has to offer.
Religion on a Grand Scale
A fantastic way to get your bearings in Kampala is to start your day with a visit to the Old Kampala National Mosque. This impressive, copper-domed building is one of the largest mosques in Africa and can accommodate about 12,000 worshippers. Inside, the main hall features delicate Egyptian chandeliers, Italian stained-glass windows, and a stunning red and blue carpet woven with images of the mosque itself. Climbing the 306 steps to the top of the minaret will reward you with a spectacular 360-degree view of the city. Moreover, if you’re feeling energetic, consider a dawn visit to watch the sun rise over the city with the uplifting sounds of the call to prayer.
There are more stunning views of Kampala from Namirembe Cathedral, set on top of a hill west of the city centre. This vast red-brick building is over 100 years old and is surrounded by well-kept gardens. Also worth seeing is the Baha’i House of Worship, home of the Baha’i faith in Africa. This beautiful nine-sided temple, topped with a massive green dome, provides a peaceful respite from the bustle of the city below.
History on Display
Until the end of the 19th century, Uganda was divided into five kingdoms. Kampala served as the capital of the largest kingdom, Buganda, from which the country derives its name. Unfortunately, not much remains from that era; however, you can visit the Kasubi Tombs, where four kings of Buganda, known as kabakas, are buried. Although the grand thatched building housing the tombs was destroyed in a fire in 2010, a careful reconstruction is underway, and touring the site offers fascinating insights into Bugandan culture and traditions.
If you’re interested in Uganda’s more recent past, head to Mengo Palace. This residence of the Kabaka Mutesa II was overtaken in 1966 by forces led by Idi Amin. The complex includes the palace itself, a pretty cream-coloured structure still used for governmental purposes, as well as gardens dotted with relics from the Amin and Obote eras. Particularly notable are the underground torture chambers, showcasing a grim part of the country’s history. Thus, graffiti on the walls provides a chilling yet educational glimpse into Uganda’s turbulent past.
Shopping for Souvenirs
After a morning of culture, spend the afternoon exploring the city’s vibrant markets, galleries, and shopping centres. For typical East African crafts, consider visiting two main permanent markets: the African Craft Village behind the National Theatre and the Exposure Africa market on Buganda Rd. You’ll discover a wide selection of handicrafts, including wood carvings, leather goods, and jewellery, many imported from Kenya as well as locally made items. Every Friday, there’s also a craft market in Nsambiya along Ggaba Rd, where you can buy directly from artisans for often better prices.
If markets and haggling aren’t your style, head to one of the three branches of Banana Boat. You’re guaranteed to find beautiful Ugandan items unique to the area, and the company works directly with local artisans, ensuring your purchases support the community.
Kampala also boasts a vibrant art scene with several galleries often representing internationally recognized artists. AKA Gallery on Bukoto St, Afriart, and Nommo Gallery are among the most well-known, offering stunning and colorful paintings, crafts, and textiles that will surely delight anyone looking to take home a piece of Uganda.
The Joys of Inner City Transport
As renowned for its vibrant atmosphere as for its traffic jams, Kampala presents a challenge when it comes to getting around. The most convenient method is by taxi. ‘Special hires’, as they’re referred to, are readily available at taxi ranks, or you can ask your hotel or restaurant to call one for you. Moreover, Uber is now operational in Kampala; however, be advised that GPS accuracy can be less reliable, and drivers might cancel if they prefer not to travel to your destination. Consequently, try to begin your journey outside of peak hours to avoid delays.
For longer journeys, consider using a matatu, which is a run-down white minivan that follows the main routes in and out of the city. They are inexpensive and frequent, but can sometimes be confusing as destinations are not always clearly marked.
If you’re feeling adventurous, the quickest way to navigate the traffic is via a boda boda, a motorcycle taxi that weaves in and out of the traffic. While this method is thrilling, it’s crucial to select a recommended driver for safety. Downloading the SafeBoda app is advisable; it operates like Uber for bodas, where drivers are trained in first aid and provide helmets.
After Dark
It’s wise to conserve your energy during the day, as Kampala truly comes alive at night. Known as the party capital of East Africa, the city’s nightlife attracts revelers from as far as Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda.
The main nightlife zone is along Acacia Ave in the city centre. Popular venues include Bubbles O’Learys, an Irish pub, and Big Mike’s, a bar and nightclub that regularly showcases excellent local bands. A little further up the road, Cayenne offers a full night out with its restaurant, poolside bar, and lively dance floor.
Outside the city centre, Kabalagala boasts a reputation for being slightly more edgy, yet with myriad bars and restaurants, finding one that suits your taste will be effortless. Top choices include the well-known Deuces, Café Cheri, or the new The Big Kafunda, an open-air venue featuring a restaurant and DJ.
If music and dancing aren’t to your liking, Kampala also has a flourishing food scene, with numerous restaurants offering excellent international cuisines. Sample some of the best steak at Divino, savor fish and chicken at Bistro, enjoy sizzling Korean pork at Miso Garden, or indulge in delicious pizza and pasta at Mediterraneo.
The Kampala Lesson
Uganda may be renowned for its landscapes and wildlife, but Kampala is where the energy resides. To miss it would be to overlook a vital aspect of Uganda’s identity: the country’s vibrant heart.
