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Running in Kampala

Bright colours, headbands and the tightly laced sneakers of a runner have become an everyday sight in Kampala’s landscape. John, a self-professed running addict, runs for 30 minutes most mornings through his neighbourhood in Naguru. He has been running for three years now and while initially the reason was to keep healthy now he runs because he enjoys it. When he goes three days without running he says he feels a little unbalanced. Whenever John runs, he now sees more people on the trail with him. To him, this is a good indication that more people are taking up running or that those already involved are being consistent with it.

Running is easy because there are next to no rules. John refers to it as the lazy man’s exercise. All you need, he says, is some road and to put one foot in front of the other. It is cheap and there is no special gear required. You do not even need a map although some runners choose to run designated trails. Like any venture he urges some caution. His golden rules are running in well lit places and carrying your cell phone.

For the aesthetic mind, a scenic route is a good choice. In Kampala, those interested in a bit of a challenge can run on hilly terrain. While there are a number of running trails in the city many people, like John, choose to run near their homes or workplaces for convenience.

WalkJogRun.net is a U.S. based website dedicated to mapping running trails. People from across the world can map their running or walking courses. Caitlin Seick, a marketing associate at WalkJogRun.net, confirms that they have some routes in Uganda which were all created by members on the site. Some of their routes can be found at: http://www.walkjogrun.net/running-routes/Uganda/.

Running goes beyond just exercise for WalkJogRun.net. They also partner with charity organizations to promote running events such as the recently held Run Awake 5k for the Achon Uganda Children’s fund.

For others, it is easier to run in a group. The Kampala Hash House Harriers are the most well-known running group in the city. Although they are dedicated runners it appears that running is their secondary objective – the primary one being to meet people and have a good time. As they say, they are drinkers, with a running problem or runners with a drinking problem.

The eccentricities of the group are widely detailed – members can be ‘punished’ for stretching before a run, or showing up with a new pair of shoes by having to drink a beer, or soft drink, out of one of their shoes. Punishments can range from having beer tossed at you to you having to wear a toilet seat around your neck while kneeling inside a circle of the other runners.

The Kampala Hash House Harriers meet on Mondays at 6pm at an earlier communicated place and run a trail set by the trail master. This can be anywhere in the city so the routes are posted online. Martin Fowler, known to the group as ‘Hacking Bush’ (nicknames/hash handles are another custom of the group) says membership is as easy as simply showing up with 8,000 UGX. The trails change constantly.

In addition to the weekly runs, the Hashers also hold a number of running events. In February, the Hashers tackle the 7 Hills Run around Kampala, an affair that is topped off by lots of celebration and drinking, of course. Another event on their calendar is the Jinja Relay in early July. The Hash Bash is the final running event of the year. All this fun also has some heart to it. At the end of the year they give a surplus of their collections to a charity of their choosing. Find them on their Facebook page.

Popular Marathons

There are annual Marathons in Kampala. The biggest group of runners in the city can be spotted at these events;

• Kabaka Birthday Run: This is organised in April every year in remembrance of the birthday of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II. This event normally runs on the Sunday before 13th April, the birthdate of the Kabaka. The event attracts thousands of Ugandans in Kampala and it has the 5km, 10km and 21km. There is always a Community cause for this event. More details about the Buganda Road race can be found on their site and Facebook page. https://www.bugandatourism.com/events/kabaka-birthday-run
•  The MTN Kampala Marathon: The marathon is held in November every year and there is a particular cause to run for! It has the 42km, 21km and 10km legs. It also caters for disabled participation. Both professional and amateur runners dabble at the yearly event. Preparations for this are serious as there is a generous prize for the winner.
• The Buganda Road Race is another annual running event organised by the Buganda kingdom.

Organizations and communities such as the International School of Uganda also hold charity runs.

Discovering Reliable Car Rentals in Kampala

Renting a car for self-drive exploration in Kampala with a reliable Uganda car rental provides the flexibility and freedom to navigate the city and venture into the countryside at your own pace. Named Pearl of Africa by Churchill, it has a lot to offer from game viewing to sceneries, and culture. These have attracted a lot of tourists’ attention to visit the country either on guided or self-drive road trips. Here’s a comprehensive guide to finding reliable self-drive car rental services in Kampala:

Choosing the Right Rental Company

When selecting a car rental company in Kampala, consider the following factors to ensure reliability and quality service:

• Reputation: Opt for well-established rental agencies with positive reviews from previous customers. Research online or ask for recommendations from fellow travelers.
• Fleet Options: Look for companies offering a diverse range of vehicles, including compact cars for city driving, SUVs for off-road adventures, and 4WDs for exploring rural areas and national parks.
• Condition of Vehicles: Ensure that the rental vehicles are well-maintained, clean, and equipped with essential safety features. Check the age of the fleet and inquire about regular servicing and maintenance.

Rental Requirements and Documentation

• Driver’s License: You’ll need a valid driver’s license from your home country. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended and may be required by some rental companies.
• Insurance: Verify that the rental agreement includes comprehensive insurance coverage, including third-party liability, collision damage waiver (CDW), and theft protection. Understand the terms and conditions regarding insurance claims and deductibles.
• Deposit: Some rental companies may require a security deposit, which is refundable upon returning the vehicle in good condition.

Booking Process and Additional Services

• Reservation: Book your rental vehicle in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure availability and competitive rates.
• Additional Services: Inquire about additional services offered, such as GPS navigation systems, child seats, and roadside assistance. Confirm any extra fees associated with these services.

Pricing and Payment

• Cost Transparency: Request a detailed breakdown of rental costs, including daily rates, insurance fees, and taxes. Clarify fuel policies (full-to-full or full-to-empty) to avoid unexpected charges.
• Payment Options: Most rental companies accept major credit cards for payment and deposit purposes. Confirm any foreign transaction fees with your bank.

Customer Support and Emergency Assistance

• 24/7 Assistance: Choose a rental company that offers round-the-clock customer support and emergency assistance in case of breakdowns, accidents, or other issues during your rental period.
• Local Knowledge: Seek recommendations from the rental company regarding driving routes, traffic regulations, and safety tips specific to Uganda and Kampala.

Conclusion

Finding a reliable self-drive car rental service in Kampala is essential for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience in Uganda. By selecting a reputable rental company, understanding rental requirements, and preparing adequately for your journey, you can explore Kampala and its surroundings with confidence and convenience. Plan ahead, choose the right vehicle for your needs, and embark on a memorable self-drive adventure in Uganda’s vibrant capital city.

What Makes Self driving the best Option?

There are many reasons that make self-drive the best option when hiring a car over the others. Discover what makes self-drive the best option when renting a car in Uganda or why you should get a self-driving car rather than driver guided rental vehicles. Self-drive tours by far have become more popular than ever before. They are a preferred option that allows visitors to explore the wonders of Uganda with ease.

If you are contemplating between hiring a car for self-drive and driver guided rentals, then it is high time it ended. Here is what makes self-drive the best option when hiring a car for a holiday in Uganda.

Hygiene

Hygiene on a road trip is essential although some people tend to ignore it. Self-drive rental cars are the best options, especially if you want a means that guarantees you good hygiene on your road trip. This is especially during hard times like pandemic outbreaks. Hiring self-drive cars allows you to maintain hygiene unlike other means of travel like public transportation.

Using self-drive rental cars, it is possible to monitor or ensure that everyone has sanitized or the car is properly sanitized. Even in terms of interior hygiene itself, self-drive cars accommodate fewer people which makes it easier to observe good hygiene.

Privacy

Self-drive rental cars are the best option because they guarantee visitors ultimate privacy while on the road trip. You do not get disrupted or inconvenienced on your road trip like it is a case with public transportation. On self-drive road trip, you can be with your partners, friends or family. This is not the case with public means where you come across other categories of people with different behaviors.

Self-drive rental cars for road trips allow you to bond with your dear ones. The conversation is kept within yourselves throughout the road trip. You crack jokes, laugh and converse with no one watching or listening to you. It is the best way to keep secret while you enjoy your holiday or share memories.

Safety and security

Safety and security are essential on any road trip in Uganda/East Africa. Unlike other means like buses or taxis where drivers are forced to work for long hours with little rest, self-drive rentals allow you to have enough time to rest, relax and so on. You can simply park aside and take a nap any time you feel thus reducing any chances of road accidents.

When it comes to road traffic rules, often, visitors on self-drive tour observe the speed limit and other security protocols. Besides, the self-drive cars are fitted with safety gear like seat belts in all the seats which won’t be the case with public buses.

Pocket-friendly

Self-drive rental cars are available for hire at the pocket-friendly prices making them the best option compared to driver guided car hire. As low as USD 50, you can hire a car for a self-drive tour in Uganda. This makes self-drive the most cost effective means of getting around Uganda.

Flexibility

Self-drive is the best option of getting around Uganda thanks to its flexibility. On a road trip, visitors can make stopovers at any point and any time of the day. As a result, you have freedom to explore the destination to the fullest compared to when in a driver guided road trip or public transportation. This makes it the best option for visitors in search for convenient ways of getting around Uganda.

Comfort and convenience

Self-drive rental cars guarantee you ultimate comfort and convenience on a road trip in Uganda compared to public transportation. They come are ideal, especially if you are traveling with elderly family members or young children. While on self-drive, you save yourself from encountering unfamiliar groups, a factor commonly experienced in public transportation.

Easy accessibility

You can have access to your dream Uganda self-drive rental with ease from your reliable car hire service provider or company. When choosing a self-drive vehicle, you can make a choice on one that best suits your travel desires. There are multiple self-drive vehicles to choose for road trips and each is perfect for different kinds travel desires. Whether you need a car for an outdoor adventure or self-drive in the city, business road trip, there is an option for you.

Important self-drive tips

When hiring a car for self-drive in Uganda or any destination, these travel tips should be kept in mind.

• Inspect the car: Before you set off from the parking, conduct thorough inspection on the self-drive vehicle you have chosen for your road trip. During the inspection, you should take note of damages or any issues, fuel level and also take time to familiarize yourself with the features and controls of the car.
• Plan your road: Have a well-planned road trip with defined stopover points en-route, destinations to visit, restaurants and accommodation.
• Hire 4×4 rental car: Do not pick any car for self-drive road trips. A 4×4 self-drive rental car is best suitable for self-drive tours in Uganda or any part of East Africa. This is ideal, especially if your road trip will take you to the toughest terrains like the hillside of Kigezi highlands.
• Respect the environment: While on a road trip, nature should be respected. Do not throw rubbish anyhow but rather have your used items in one container in the vehicle. You can dump everything in one point on arrival rather than throwing things through the windows.
• Respect park regulations: If your self-drive road trip involves exploring national parks in Uganda, then ensure that you observe the set park regulations as much as you can. Respect wildlife as they freely roam in their habitat, drive at a minimal speed as indicated in the signpost in the park, do not hoot as this can scare away wildlife and others. Disrespecting the rules and regulations in place may come with heavy charges which perhaps you never planned for.

Conclusively, opting for self-drive tours/rental cars guarantees you multiple benefits including flexibility, freedom to explore the destinations, privacy, cost-effectiveness, safety and security on a road trip.

Nyama Choma: Best Places Where to Eat Meat in Kampala

Where Uganda has taken roasted and fried pork to an art form neighboring Kenya has their own: Nyama Choma, or roasted beef. In fact, Nyama Choma means ‘roasted meat’ in Kiswahili.

Nyama Choma is prepared by basting chunks of beef with a mixture of salted water while it roasts on the grill. It takes an average of thirty minutes to prepare and roast and is served either on a large plate or tray depending on the quantity you have ordered. When ordering, and depending on how many kilos you are prepared to consume, you can usually choose which you beef cut you prefer.

Nyama Choma is served either chopped into bite-sized pieces or brought as whole. As is custom, it is always served with side dishes like Kachumbari (a salad of diced tomatoes and onions), Ugali (a thick porridge made from maize meal), Mukimu (a dish made from a mixture of maize, potatoes and mashed vegetables) or French fries. Much like with pork, it is common for Nyama Choma fans to have a drink or two as they devour their meal.

Nyama Choma joints aren’t easy to find in Kampala but we have scouted out some of the finest so you don’t have any excuse not to try it!

Jeans Pub in Namuwongo is very popular among the nyama choma community – especially among Kenyans living in Uganda. “These guys prepare Nyama choma the proper way,” said Deejay Tumz a Kenyan national who has lived in Kampala for over five years. There, nyama choma is served with kachumbari, mukimu or ugali depending on your preference and a kilo is 20,000 UGX.

In Kansanga, right next to KIU Main Hostels, is Kungo Maito. This place is a favourite of Kenyan nationals living in Kampala as its nyama choma is relatively cheap. Served with sukuma wiki, a plate is as low as 2,500 UGX. A kilo goes for 20,000 UGX and half is 10,000 UGX.

Kruchy Bites is also another nyama choma place near Chicken tonight in Kansanga. Nyama choma here costs 16,000 UGX a kilo and half is 8,500 UGX without any accompaniments.

Nyama Point can be found in the Kamwokya Center on Old Kira Road. A kilo of choma here is 17,000 UGX. Half a kilo costs 9,000 UGX and side dishes such as sukuma wiki, spinach, ugali and roasted matooke are as low as 1,000 UGX per portion. They serve their nyama choma grilled, deep fried and pan fried. Nyama choma here is served on skewers or as whole meat which on their menu is referred to as tumbukiza.

In Bugolobi, opposite Nakumatt Supermarket, is Roosters. A kilo of Nyama Choma at this place costs 17,000 UGX and half a kilo is 8,500 UGX. A side dish of kachumbari, sukuma wiki, ugali or a combination of the three costs an extra 3,000 UGX.

Still in the Bugolobi area is Bamboo Nest. The only type of Nyama Choma served is goat’s meat on skewers. Each skewer costs 8,000 UGX and has 4 pieces of nyama. If you are interested in any side dishes, Kachumbari costs 3,000 UGX, cassava, Sukuma wiki, avocado portions start from as low as 1,000 UGX. They don’t serve ugali.

Rock Catalina is a bar in Ntinda town that has stood the test of time. A plate of nyama choma starts from as low as 6,000 with accompaniments of kachumbari and sukuma wiki. Half a kilo costs 12,000 UGX while a kilo is 24,000 UGX. As their banner indicated, they pride themselves in preparing nyama choma in the Kenyan style.

Triple R formerly known as R&R, located in Ntinda new market, is another place that serves nyama choma. A plate of Nyama Choma costs 7,500 UGX.

10 Best Places Where to Dine Out With Kids

Most families – whether big or small – would like to go out as a family but are restricted by having entertainment for their children. Very few restaurants and hotels in Kampala have facilities that cater for the needs of families with children. Below are a few that do in hopes that both parents and children can go out and have an enjoyable and relaxing time.

Hotel International in Muyenga has a kid’s park that is open all week long. While it is open all day, every day it is more visited on weekends and holidays. Parents can lounge in the gardens, restaurant or at the bar while the children in the park are looked after by a child minder. The park has a bouncing castle, a variety of swings, cartoon characters to mingle with the children, ice cream and cotton candy. There is also a swimming pool with a life guard on duty to guard the children. For those children who are aqua phobic, they can enjoy a donkey ride around the grounds. Hotel International: For more details call: +256414 510 204/2, +256 774 682 082, +256 774 680 037. Email: hotelinternational2000ltd@gmail.com and website www.hotelinternational2000.co.ug.

Centenary Park also has a playground at Vitamin Café, right next to Effendy’s Turkish Restaurant. They have child minders watching the child which allows parents to relax any of the other eateries in Centenary Park. Vitamin Café has food and soft drinks for the children and parents should place their child’s order before leaving and the miner’s will ensure that the children are well taken care of in their absence. The activities offered for the include: swings, slides, baby swings, and a bouncing castle. This children’s park is open for birthday parties and reservations can be made. Plot 34-38, Jinja road, Kampala, tel: +256 772 498215, +256 702 332288, email: sarakizito@centenaryparkuganda.com, info@centenaryparkuganda.com.

Vitamin Café: This is an amazing restaurant where you can have good time with your kids.

Café Roma in Muyenga (pictured above) also has facilities for children between the hours of 11.30am and 8.00pm. They have trained child miners who watch children on the playground which has a trampoline, swings, a slide, sandpit, and tree house. Children can also colour cartoon pages, or doodle on a chalkboard. If they would like they can also make their own pizza for lunch or dinner! Café Roma: Plot 689 Muyenga road, Kampala. Tel: +256 (0) 792 501 847. Email is cafferomauganda@hotmail.com

Silver City Spur is a steak restaurant located in Golf Course Hotel. They have well trained minders to take care of children of all ages and they are open all week. The children activities offered include: cartoon movies, play stations, trampoline, and face painting. They organize birthday parties and give away free party bag gifts and balloons. Silver City Spurs: Reservations can be made online: reservations@golfcoursehotel.com or by calling +256 414 563500, +256 312 302280. For more details: www.golfcoursehotel.com.

Tips for Hanging Out With Kids

Going to a restaurant that doesn’t have child minders, or entertain children needn’t be an unpleasant experience if you are prepared ahead of time. First, make sure your children know how they are expected to behave at a public restaurant.

Second, make sure they know that they are responsible for not only the family having a nice time but also the people dining around you having a nice time.

Third, consider a reward for good behavior – such as a dessert or other treat.

Fourth, consider bringing along some quiet activities to keep children occupied while at the restaurant. A book, puzzle, colouring pages, and crayons can do the trick. Remember that restaurants are, at once, very exciting to children, and very boring. There’s a lot of waiting for things that doesn’t normally happen during meal times at home and there’s a lot going on around them.

Hanging out with the kids at restaurants shouldn’t be a dreaded event. Find a location that meets your needs and your children will enjoy and have a great weekend together as a family.

Yujo Izakaya Japanese Restaurant

The owners of Yujo are young and enthusiastic about everything Japanese, a penchant reflected throughout the restaurant. Check the bottoms of the soy sauce cups if you’re unsure – no Chinese makes or models here. Everything in the restaurant is authentically Japanese including the ingredients 90 percent of which are from Japan.

The first dining area strikes the right mood being calm, cautiously lit, and open and with six to eight tables surrounding a large bar/sushi counter that seat about 20. There is also an ‘Izakaya’ dining area in another building where patrons sit on traditional tatami mats on the floor and eat from low tables.

The wait staff are numerous, attentive and knowledgeable – which is good as anyone less than a sushi aficionado will find the six page menu daunting. There were eight staff on the dining floor serving seven tables plus two chefs behind the counter.

The chefs have had 15 years training in Japanese cuisine and it shows in the dishes produced. Yujo’s does serve an ample variety of Japanese dishes so it would be a shame if it became pigeon-holed as a ‘sushi restaurant’ with customers not venturing on to other items. The Katsu Don (a bowl of rice topped with a deep fried pork, egg and vegetable) had a disappointing lack of promised leeks (being cheekily replaced by scallions) and vegetable but despite this was comparable to what one would find in London. The sushi was also comparable to decent London sushi restaurants. Sushi can be ordered a la carte or by platter with platter prices varying from 29,000 to 78,000. The platters were fresh and plentiful with only the shrimp being unimpressively chewy and the maki rolls being loosely rolled.

Starters vary from Miso Soup at 7,000 to Tempura, Udon, Tataki and Katsu up to 26,000. Other mains are in the 24,000-38,000 range. The drinks menu bears an extensive non-alcoholic section with concoctions veering inventively from the standard Kampala list of a couple of sodas and a juice options. Wine is served by bottle (up to 75,000) or by the glass (7,900).

Four other items bear special mention. First, parking is street side so can be limited. Second, unless dining early book a table – especially if your party is over four people – or you will find a wait or be seated at the bar. Third, the choices in background music on any given evening are bemusing – take notice – ranging from the greatest hits of the 60′s-80′s to South American pan pipes. Fourth, the toilets seem to have been imported from outer space and should be visited for the sake of themselves. The sinks, also of modern design and without taps seem impossible to switch on but it can be accomplished by twisting the faucet spout.

Overall, if diners are looking for a solid Japanese dining experience they can now find it in Kampala. If they’re looking for a magnificent experience perhaps Air Uganda could be persuaded to put a flight on to Tokyo.

The restaurant is open Mon-Sat, 12-3pm and 6-10:30pm. Closed on Sundays. Find Yujo on Facebook

4 Best Uganda National Parks to See Amazing Wildlife

Here are four national parks in Uganda that offer great wildlife viewing opportunities: Murchison Falls, Lake Mburo, Queen Elizabeth and Kidepo. Murchison and Queen turn out to be the most popular and have the highest concentration of wildlife so far. Lake Mburo and Kidepo are less visited compared to the rest but offer equally good wildlife viewing experiences.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is apparently the most popular national park in Uganda and has the highest population of mammals and bird life. Murchison Falls comes next to it and has larger mammals inclusive of the Rothschild Giraffe – a specie that cannot be found in Queen.

These destinations equally contribute to Uganda’s status of being a great wildlife viewing destination on the African continent. It might not be among the best, but does have the kind of experience every tourist would expect from a wildlife safari.

One of the national parks – Kidepo Valley National Park was named the 3rd best safari park on the African Continent by Cable News Network (CNN) in 2013. This milestone turned out to be a cornerstone to a virgin isolated national park that was always known for insecurity. Kidepo sits on the wild frontier region of North-Eastern Uganda and turns out to be one of the best spots for wildlife viewing in Uganda. If you are brave enough to take on the 12 – 14 hours drive or have the capacity to opt for scheduled / chartered flights, you should definitely visit this park. The park is very secure to visit.

Kidepo Valley National Park

The remote and less explored Kidepo Valley National Park is a 1,442 square kilometres national park in the Karamoja region in northeast Uganda. Kidepo is rugged savannah, dominated by the 2,750 metres Mount Morungole and transected by the Kidepo and Narus rivers. This park harbors a lot of big cats and some species of wildlife that cannot be found else where in Uganda. Ostriches can only be found here and cheetah’s on rare occasions.

The main reason why few people visit the Kidepo National Park is the distance. The journey usually lasts for about 14 hours by road and at times you will have to divide it into two days. The best way to access this park is by using chartered flights. You will spend roughly two hours flying ans cut your distance short. Truth be told! Safaris to Kidepo are one of the best you will ever experience in Uganda.

Murchison Falls National Park

The popular Murchison Falls National Park sits on the shore of Lake Albert, in northwest Uganda. It’s known for Murchison Falls, where the Victoria Nile River surges through a narrow gap over a massive drop. Park wildlife includes elephants and hippos, and there are chimpanzees in the Kaniyo Pabidi mahogany forest. The Lake Albert Delta is home to rare shoebill storks. There are game fish in the cascades of Karuma Falls.

The Murchison Falls Park is home to 76 species of mammals including four of the “Big Five”, with huge herds of buffaloes and elephants, well-camouflaged leopards and a healthy population of lions. It is also known for its giraffes; in Uganda these can only be viewed here and in Kidepo Valley. Other species viewed regularly along the game tracks include Jackson’s hartebeest, bushbucks, Uganda kob, waterbucks and warthogs. Resident crocodiles and hippos as well as other, visiting wildlife are found along the river.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is in southwest Uganda. Leopards roam the Mweya Peninsula, which lies beside Lake Edward. Nearby Lake Katwe is a huge volcanic explosion crater. Boats on the Kazinga Channel float past hippos and Nile crocodiles. Chimpanzees inhabit the Kyambura Gorge. Trails lead to bat caves in the central Maramagambo Forest. The Ishasha area is home to tree-climbing lions and shoebill storks.

With an astonishing 5000 hippos, 2500 elephants and over 10,000 buffalo thriving in its grasslands and shorelines, Queen Elizabeth National Park guarantees sightings of some of Africa’s most iconic species. Hearing the elephants’ calls reverberate around Queen’s crater-filled valleys is a magical experience. Other common herbivores include warthogs, waterbuck, Uganda kob and topi, as well as the sitatunga antelope.

Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is a compact gem, located conveniently close to the highway that connects Kampala to the parks of western Uganda. It is the smallest of Uganda’s Savannah national parks and underlain by ancient Precambrian metamorphic rocks which date back more than 500 million years.

The small in size Lake Mburo National Park has varied habitats support 68 mammal species. Rarities include impala, which, in Uganda, only lives in Lake Mburo, and Burchell’s zebra and eland which are found only here and in Kidepo. Other species include warthog, buffalo, oribi, Defassa waterbuck and reedbuck. Leopard and hyena are also present while crocodile and over 300 hippos are found in the lake. Previously extinct in the park, lions have recently been sighted again.

Kampala Embraces Yoga

It seems a bit strange that contorting your body into impossible shapes can bring physical relief. Practitioners of yoga, however, swear there are countless benefits of yoga including increased immunity and a well toned body.

Yoga is used to curb emotional and psychological stress and although the uptake has been slow, Ugandan’s are latching onto the practice.

Amelia Kabuye, a Ugandan legal assistant started yoga to get a bit of exercise but realized that the benefits were far greater than she had imagined. Yoga brought a ‘balance’ to her being; a thing she says is difficult to put into words.

For Alex Ochom, a Ugandan instructor, yoga is most effective when it comes to stress relief saying, “We live in a very stress filled time, I feel that yoga can be a good solution to that.” He has been teaching yoga since 2009 and has seen a steady increase in the number of Ugandan students, especially this year.

With a taekwondo and gymnastics background, he was looking for a more active form of yoga. He was surprised to find that yoga wasn’t all about ohming, a mantra that is repeated normally at the start and end of a yoga session. A misconception many Ugandans share. He settled into Ashtanga yoga because it is more physically demanding and incorporates balancing, cardio, breathing and strengthening of the body.

Alex’s classes have students from beginner to advanced levels so he tailors the classes to all their needs. The first barrier he finds to the up-take of yoga is the financial expense. On average a class costs about 20,000 UGX a price that is high for the average Ugandan.

In a bid to spread this philosophy and provide the youth with a positive activity, he charges some students less. He is also currently looking for a free space where he can instruct people and where people can practice yoga at no cost. The idea of a TV show in the morning is one he feels would help reach Ugandans en masse. The second challenge is that most who have heard about yoga think that it is a religion.

Angela Inglish, a yoga instructor in Makindye, says she has encountered this problem. This may be because yoga originates from India where Hinduism and Buddhism are predominant religions. Latim Obonyo Umbi, an instructor at annaE’s studio believes it may also be because yoga writings are in Sanskrit, the language of Hinduism.

While there are regular attendees Angela would love to see more Ugandan’s in her class. She prefers Vinyasa Yoga because it is less rigid and non-repetitive. “It allows you to switch up the styles,” she says.

At annaE’s in Bukoto, Anna Erlandsdotter and Latim Obonyo Umbi, the instructors, have new dynamic blends of yoga such as Kick Off Yoga and Happy Hour Recovery Yoga which is best for one recovering from a long night out. They believe that yoga can be tailored to whatever the individual needs. Pregnant women or couples can have particular blends.

Anna who has been in Uganda for three years sees a change in yoga, “It is becoming more dynamic,” she says. She attributes this to the entry of new yoga teachers into the market. Before, the yoga was taught more by Indian teachers who focused more on the philosophy.

annaE’s studio also offers private classes to not more than five. Latim says this way the individuals get maximum attention.

Some say yoga is egotistical because it focuses on the self but Anna believes it’s altruistic and is glad more Ugandan women come to the class. “Women are the care givers. It is only when we take good care of ourselves that we can take care of others,” she says.

Alex teaches a class at Acacia Yoga and Wellbeing Center on Monday and Friday at 6pm and on Wednesday at 9am for 40,000 UGX a class.

Angela teaches a class at the American Recreational Association on Wednesday at 9am for 45,000 UGX.

Classes at annaE’s are on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 7pm, on Friday at 7am and on Saturday at 9am. They charge 125,000 UGX for 5 classes and 30,000 UGX for a single class. They also teach at Kabira Country Club where non-members pay 45,000 UGX a class.

All teachers offer private classes.

There is a new Facebook page where you can keep updated on all the goings on of Yoga and other wellness activities in Kampala: https://www.facebook.com/WellnessUganda

AnnaE’s studio is on the tarmac road above Kampala International School found here. Once there, you can call them on 0776035587. You can also find them on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/annaEs/142934362505575

We will provide links to maps for the following locations as soon as we can:

• The Acacia Yoga and Wellbeing Center
• The American Recreational Association in Makindye
• The Kabira Country Club

Top 10 Tourism Activities to Do in Kampala

The idea of spending a day in Kampala is good.  After all you never want to visit a country like Uganda and depart without seeing its capital Kampala which grown big spreading over 21 hills. It is a busy city with a population of 1.4 million people, and during the day, some streets downtown can have traffic jam congestion and that’s why there are lots of boda bodas/ motorcycles (such as Uber, Safe Boda, Taxify) because it’s easy to use and ride to many sights and attractions within a short time.

Kampala’s top attractions such as are found in the city center within a walking distance while others are in a driving distance in its suburbs such as Kasubi, Mengo, Old Kampala, and Makerere University, Kamwokya. While you may expect to start early morning at around 9am, you may not see everything. So if you have got a day in Kampala, here are a few options to give you an itinerary of the places you would like to visit.

Sightseeing around Kampala

Kampala sightseeing bus is the only sightseeing bus tour service in Kampala. It offers the best way to see lots of sites of Kampala city in a short amount of time just 4-5 hours drive. The Kampala sightseeing bus is double decked and features Wi-Fi and a drink and snacks on board. It sets off by 10am at BMK house next to hotel Africana and the afternoon schedule begins at 2pm from the same venue. It moves slow to allow everyone take pictures of some of the sites of Kampala including the independence monument, Uganda parliament where you might spot some politicians, Sheraton hotel, Naksero market, kabaaka’s lake, Lubiri Kabaka’s palace, natawetwa monument, Bulange the parliament of Buganda kingdom, lubaga and namirembe cathedrals, kasubi tombs, Makerere University, mulago hospital among others. There are some stops for refreshments at selected places.

Go shopping at craft village at national theatre and Buganda road or around malls, supermarkets and food markets

Kampala has a thriving scene of arts and crafts, malls and supermarkets and food markets. If you are looking for arts and crafts, souvenirs, visit craft village at National Theatre and Buganda road, there you will find shop and stall after another full of colorful African arts and crafts made in Uganda and those imported from around the great lakes countries. Spend some time exploring the shops to buy your favorite items and remember to bargain for lower prices. Great shopping centers located within the city Kampala include Acacia mall, mega standard supermarket, shop rite and many other large supermarkets. If you want to see food scene or grab fresh fruits, Nakasero market uptown is a great starting point with a variety of fresh fruits.

Independence monument

Uganda obtained her independence from the British imperial government on 9^th October 1962. The independence monument tells a story of freedom from British imperialist rule. Visitors will see a 6 feet monument portraying a woman holding and raising up a child to touch the sky. While the Ugandan independence occurred without any bloodshed, however the woman is depicted to be rising from the bondage of slavery and colonialism. No matter the political reasons associated with the site, the monument remains impressive and historical for Uganda. It is located in its garden between grand imperial and Sheraton hotel making the site difficult to miss.

Find some culture

Uganda museum located 1.5 km from Kampala along kira road in Kamwokya is a great place to start. Uganda museum was founded in 1902; it has over a million collections.

You will find a guide to take you through exhibitions to explore the history, culture, wildlife and traditional life of Uganda. For art, the Margret trowel art galleries in Makerere University and at national theatre are home to great paintings.

Gaddafi mosque

A day in Kampala would not be complete without a visit to Gaddafi mosque. The Uganda national mosque is situated on old Kampala hill. It is famous for its 50 meters high tower. When you climb at the top, take pictures and marvel at the spectacular views of the entire Kampala city straddling over 21 rolling hills.

Eating out

Eating out restaurants and options in Kampala are limitless. There are many restaurants cater to all prices, and are open all day long and at night making Kampala a haven for food lovers, with every type of cuisine found around the world. Besides, there’s a famous Royal dish of Buganda kingdom called “Luwombo, a blend of chicken, beef, G-nuts, Matooke wrapped and cooked in a banana leaves. Make sure to taste it if you really want to delight your food experience.

Book on your phone and order for food if you have Jumia app. It lists the favorites and gives discounts when you order online. Find the reviews of many restaurants is endless on trip advisor including Mediterraneo, Café Javas, Lawns, Fang Fang Restaurant for Chinese, Yuzo Izakaya for Japanese, African pot.

Explore Buganda Kingdom Palace and Parliament

The Lubiri (royal palace f Kabaka of Buganda and Bulange (parliament) are some of the most famous buildings in Kampala.  The palace was built in 1922 and bulange in 1958. Visitors can tour the two historical sites by a guided tour to learn history, culture and traditions of Buganda. The torture chamber inside Bulange gate, tells the political history of Uganda during Obote and Idi Amin regimes.

The walk the royal mile walk which connects the entrance gates of the palace and Bulange features monuments of leopards, lion, monkeys, mud fish which you can learn about the culture and traditions of various clans of Buganda, the largest traditional kingdom that dates back from the 13^th century when it was formed.

Kasubi royal tombs

This UNESCO world heritage site is a burial ground for the former 4 Kabaka’s of Buganda Kingdom. It was built in 1882 and remained intact until 2009 when it was destroyed by fire.

Top Places to Eat the Best Pizza in Kampala

Kampala the capital city of Uganda has endless choices for places to eat the best pizza. You can spend around US$8, all this depends on your taste and budget. Here are some of the restaurants that have been carefully handpicked and are preferred by many travelers and culinary enthusiasts. Many of the restaurants are reasonably priced for the foreign travelers and they are quite cozy and suitable for individuals, families and larger groups of travellers. These restaurants include the following;

Domino’s pizza
This is a sort of copy of the domino’s pizza in the United States of America but there is no comparison. You won’t fail to like their pizza, it’s the best, the cheese and Domino’s price ranges from US$5.99 for the large pepperoni pizza. It is a perfect value for money and one of the best pizzas in town.

Café Roma
This is a great restaurant with great tasty food and their pizza is without doubt excellent. It does have pepperoni but the salami instead is extra lovely.

Palm café pizzeria and bar
This has got the wood fire oven pizza, great toppings, crispy crust and the best price. It kind of reminds you of the New York style pizza and there is lots of cheese. It is located before the Reste corner on the left up from Kabalagala.

Antonios Grill
This attracts a crowd of majorly young revelers and it is just about everything in between. This restaurant is filled with the conversations of nearly a hundred people eating, drinking and chilling. Their main cuisine is pizza but they also serve African, international and burgers. They open every day from 7:00am to 11:00Pm. Antonios provide free parking, takeaway, family friendly and home / office delivery. It is suitably located in Nakasero, central Kampala.

Café Ceylon is a restaurant and a café
This prepares and serves a unique fusion of gourmet, art and culture around Kololo. It surely stays so true to its authentic dishes like Lumprais and also swaying away to serve you with delicious French pastries. The cuisines served include pizza, café and burgers. They work every day from 6:30am to midnight and it is located at Kira road Kamwokya, a suburb in Kampala. They offer facilities like free parking lot and takeaway.

Cayenne Restaurant and lounge
This is located in the Centre of Bukoto and it offers various cuisines ranging from Indian dishes, Italian and Pizza to continental options. One can enjoy their pizza while relaxing at the cool breeze of the swimming pool and cozy up in the style low-slung or one may feel more comfortable chilling at the high car bar counter. Their main cuisine is pizza, burger and multi cuisines. They are open the whole week from Monday to Saturday and facilities offered include; free parking lot, happy hour, full bar, delivery, family friendly and takeaway.

Mr. Tasty
This is a new definition to fast foods, everything related to the good chicken, delicious pizzas, burgers and good fries are what define Mr. tasty. Whenever you are just go try them out because it has many branches like Mr. tasty Ntinda, Mr. tasty freedom city, Mr. tasty Lugogo and Mr. tasty Shoprite clock tower. They operate every day from 8:00am to 10:00 pm. The facilities offered include free parking lot, delivery, take away and dine in.

Taste Budz restaurant
This is located on the capital shoppers building in Ntinda. It is the very first thing one sees due to its perfectly colored banners in white and red. The seats are very cosy and comfortable as one sees in through the glasses. It serves fast foods only like pizza, burger and chicken. They provide facilities like the free parking, take away, dine in, disabled access and also family friendly.

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