Home Search by budget Destinations Beaches Interactive map Services Booking Collections Ratings VIP Club
Find flights Book transfer
Home / Destinations / Kampala

Kampala

Uganda · City · UGX · 0.347600, 32.582500
Family friendly 7.6/10 · Rank 297 of 2 709
Best season: June-August, December-February

Best for

Kampala suits lovers of urban tourism, culture, and nightlife, as well as those who want to see modern Uganda. The city is not suitable for lovers of quiet seclusion and beach holidays.

Best season

June-August, December-February

Daily budget
$64.00 (≈ 5 371 ₽)
For 7 days
$448.00 (≈ 37 596 ₽)
Kampala is the vibrant capital of Uganda, spread across seven hills near Lake Victoria, where modern office buildings stand alongside traditional African markets and colonial mansions. As the country's political and economic hub, the city amazes with its energy and contrasts, from the chaotic Owino Market to the tranquil Nakasero Hill with its elite villas. Key attractions include the Kasubi Tombs (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Gaddafi National Mosque, and the Uganda Museum. Kampala is the perfect place to experience the authentic life of East Africa.
Summer
28.0°C
Winter
18.0°C
Search by budget Atmosphere Pros and cons Climate Attractions Excursions Prices FAQ
Search by budget
Enter an amount — we'll show destinations within your reach
Description and atmosphere

Energy

active

Pace of life

fast

Local character

The residents of Kampala are a mix of various ethnic groups of Uganda, including the Baganda, as well as immigrants from other countries. They are known for their hard work, hospitality, and love of traditions. The city takes pride in its cultural diversity and modern appearance.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Capital of Uganda: the largest city in the country with developed infrastructure.
  • Rich cultural heritage: museums, temples, and the royal palace.
  • Diverse gastronomy: from street food to fine dining restaurants.
  • Affordable prices: accommodation, food, and transport are significantly cheaper than in Europe.
  • Friendly locals: Ugandans are known for their hospitality.
  • Vibrant nightlife: bars, clubs, and restaurants operate until morning.
  • Direct flights from Moscow: convenient transport accessibility.

Cons

  • No sea: the nearest beaches are on Lake Victoria, but these are not sea beaches.
  • Hot summers: temperatures can reach 30°C, which can be difficult for some tourists.
  • Traffic jams: during rush hours, moving around the city can take a long time.
  • Transport remoteness: no direct flights from Russia, need for a connection.
  • Limited English: communication may be difficult in remote areas.
  • Malaria: the risk of malaria requires preventive measures.
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
22.7°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
27.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
28.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
20.7°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
25.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
18.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
March-May, September-November
Attractions

Kasubi Tombs

The national shrine of Uganda on Kasubi Hill. Impressive architecture and panoramic views of Kampala. A must-visit place.

Uganda National Museum

A museum dedicated to the history, culture, and nature of Uganda. The collection includes archaeological finds, ethnographic items, and works of art.

Buganda Royal Palace

The historic palace of the kings of Buganda. Impressive architecture and cultural heritage.

Owino Market

One of the largest markets in Kampala, selling fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts. An excellent place to get acquainted with local culture.

Munyonyo Beach

A picturesque beach on Lake Victoria. A popular place for relaxation and water sports.

Kampala Nightlife

Kampala is known for its vibrant nightlife. Bars, clubs, and restaurants operate until morning.

Murchison Falls National Park

A national park 300 km from Kampala, known for Murchison Falls and rich wildlife.

Best areas

City Centre

The administrative and commercial centre of Kampala with hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Kololo

A prestigious area with upscale homes, embassies, and restaurants. Panoramic views of the city.

Nakasero

A residential area with affordable hotels and local cafes.

Muyenga

An area with upscale homes and panoramic views of Lake Victoria.

Entebbe

A suburb of Kampala with an international airport and beaches on Lake Victoria.

Bugolobi

An area with vibrant nightlife, bars, and restaurants.

Must-try food

Matoke

Steamed or stewed green bananas. The main side dish in Uganda.

Posho

Cornmeal porridge, a traditional dish. Served with vegetables or meat.

Rolex

A thin wheat flour chapati rolled with meat and vegetables. Popular street food.

Samosas

Fried pies filled with meat or vegetables. A popular snack.

Nile Perch

Fresh fish from Lake Victoria, grilled or breaded.

Chapati

A thin wheat flour flatbread, served with beans or meat.

Groundnut Sauce

A thick peanut sauce, served with matoke, rice, or meat.

Where to go next

Entebbe

A city 40 km from Kampala, known for its international airport and beaches on Lake Victoria.

Murchison Falls National Park

A national park 300 km from Kampala, known for Murchison Falls and rich wildlife.

Kibale National Park

A national park 300 km from Kampala, known for its chimpanzees and other primates.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

A national park 400 km from Kampala, known for its elephants, lions, and other animals.

Jinja

A city 80 km from Kampala, known for its waterfalls and the source of the Nile.

Lake Victoria

The largest lake in Africa, a popular place for fishing and water sports.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
high
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт Энтеббе (EBB).
Check flight prices Putivator
Compare prices from 800+ airlines — Putivator
Search
Visa
Visa requirements
required
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
June-August, December-February
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$90.00
≈ 7 553 ₽
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$150.00
≈ 12 588 ₽
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$120.00
≈ 10 070 ₽
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽
Book a hotel Partner
Over 2 million hotels — Trip.com
Find
Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$1.50
≈ 126 ₽
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$1.50
≈ 126 ₽
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.60
≈ 50 ₽
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽
Burger
Average price for a burger
$4.50
≈ 378 ₽
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$4.50
≈ 378 ₽
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$21.00
≈ 1 762 ₽
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.26
≈ 22 ₽
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$1.50
≈ 126 ₽
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽
Airport transfer Putivator
Comfortable transfer — Putivator
Book
Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
—
Tiqets — museums & landmarks Kampala Partner
Museums, parks, tours - Tiqets
Find
Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$1.30
≈ 109 ₽
eSIM for travellers Partner
Internet in 200+ countries — Yesim
Connect
Frequently asked questions
Kampala: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is June-August, December-February. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Kampala: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +28.0°C, during the day — up to +27.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Kampala: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +18.0°C, during the day — up to +25.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Kampala: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on March-May, September-November. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Kampala: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $64.00 (≈ 5 371 ₽) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Kampala: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $15.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $50.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $90.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $150.00 per night, an apartment — $40.00 per night, a villa — $120.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Kampala: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $3.00, dinner at a restaurant — $10.00, a cup of cappuccino — $1.50, a 0.5L beer — $1.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.60. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Kampala: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $21.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.26, a short taxi ride — $1.50, car rental — $40.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Kampala: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Kasubi Tombs — The national shrine of Uganda on Kasubi Hill. Impressive architecture and panoramic views of Kampala. A must-visit place.; Uganda National Museum — A museum dedicated to the history, culture, and nature of Uganda. The collection includes archaeological finds, ethnographic items, and works of art.; Buganda Royal Palace — The historic palace of the kings of Buganda. Impressive architecture and cultural heritage.; Owino Market — One of the largest markets in Kampala, selling fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts. An excellent place to get acquainted with local culture.; Munyonyo Beach — A picturesque beach on Lake Victoria. A popular place for relaxation and water sports.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Kampala: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Matoke — Steamed or stewed green bananas. The main side dish in Uganda.; Posho — Cornmeal porridge, a traditional dish. Served with vegetables or meat.; Rolex — A thin wheat flour chapati rolled with meat and vegetables. Popular street food.; Samosas — Fried pies filled with meat or vegetables. A popular snack.; Nile Perch — Fresh fish from Lake Victoria, grilled or breaded.; Chapati — A thin wheat flour flatbread, served with beans or meat.; Groundnut Sauce — A thick peanut sauce, served with matoke, rice, or meat.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Kampala: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: City Centre — The administrative and commercial centre of Kampala with hotels, restaurants, and shops.; Kololo — A prestigious area with upscale homes, embassies, and restaurants. Panoramic views of the city.; Nakasero — A residential area with affordable hotels and local cafes.; Muyenga — An area with upscale homes and panoramic views of Lake Victoria.; Entebbe — A suburb of Kampala with an international airport and beaches on Lake Victoria.; Bugolobi — An area with vibrant nightlife, bars, and restaurants.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Kampala: is a visa required?
Visa: required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Kampala: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт Энтеббе (code EBB). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $21.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Kampala: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — UGX. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $64.00 (≈ 5 371 ₽). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Kampala: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Kampala: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Kampala: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Entebbe — A city 40 km from Kampala, known for its international airport and beaches on Lake Victoria.; Murchison Falls National Park — A national park 300 km from Kampala, known for Murchison Falls and rich wildlife.; Kibale National Park — A national park 300 km from Kampala, known for its chimpanzees and other primates.; Queen Elizabeth National Park — A national park 400 km from Kampala, known for its elephants, lions, and other animals.; Jinja — A city 80 km from Kampala, known for its waterfalls and the source of the Nile.; Lake Victoria — The largest lake in Africa, a popular place for fishing and water sports.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.6/10
Overall rank: 297 of 2 709
Rank among cities: 101

Best season

June-August, December-February

Useful information

Currency: UGX
Coordinates: 0.347600, 32.582500