Discover Kampala Through these Top 5 Luxurious Hotels
Golden Tulip
A Flower in the Centre of the city, Golden Tulip is an amazing new hotel everyone needs to pay a visit. Located in the heart of Kampala right opposite Fairway Hotel another legendary hotel we will discuss another day, tall and proud for everyone to see, this hotel screams new and classy! It is new and ready to be filled with memories. Currently on the Jumia Travel site you can book it and experience the calm and breezy ambience. At night the place is lit up it’s almost reminiscent of Christmas. With two restaurants, Golden Tulip gives you an opportunity to have options. Mosaic restaurant is decked out with the cutest chairs and the table setting is exquisite. The menu comprises of quick to go snacks like sandwiches and burgers to Italian and Indian cuisine. Two dishes worth recommending is the Spaghetti Bolognaise and the Chicken Sizzler which you can have with rice/roast potato or mashed potato.Currently on the Jumia Travel site, you can book it and experience the calm and breezy ambience.
Emerald Hotel
Also in the Nakasero area, Emerald Hotel is another top hotel to check out if you are looking for a great experience. From the entrance the hotel gives you that islandy feel as you are welcomed with palm trees. If you love Indian and Ugandan cuisine, this is the perfect place to go to. Their menu has several dishes that could interest your pallet. It also has Wi-Fi, very key if you are planning to have a business meeting or you just need to update your apps (yes millennials, they have you sorted!). Looking for a dream deal for a couple of nights,going as low as 120,000 the Jumia site has you covered.
Forest Cottages
If you are looking for a getaway in the middle of the city because you are unable to take the time off to go too far, Forest Cottages is the hotel to explore. Located on Naguru hill in Bukoto Old Kira road, this hotel gives you the feel of a cabin holiday in the Alps. With a beautiful view of nature like indigenous trees and shrubs it gives you a cozy feel and you are bound to leave super relaxed and distressed from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Urban by City Blue
If you love to swim and are looking for fancy pool to dive into, well Urban by City Blue will have you covered. If swimming is not your cup of tea then a drink by the pool side would still be a wonderful idea. It is very spacious with a very calm and relaxing atmosphere. You could also book some of their amazing rooms and would be treated to a complimentary breakfast and for lunch guests can order some exquisite Italian food from Café Mamba. Outdoor dining facilities are available at the terrace and balconies
Premier Boutique Hotel
Found on Mutungo Hill, this is another luxurious hotel that you need to check out if you are in Kampala. It is the perfect venue for a small get together whether bridal or baby shower as well as wedding or business meetings that might require you to stay in that area for a couple of day. It has a well-stocked stylish bar and a restaurant area that provides a buffet for local and continental cuisines. With a Wi-Fi hotspot you are able to keep up with emails and work in a quiet away from town location.
You are able to find all these hotels online and at affordable rates; have a beautiful experience in Kampala while here. Don’t get stuck in the routine of picking or going to the same old locations. For more information visit Hotels Uganda’s website.
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A Week Through Kampala’s Favourite Restaurants
Kampala is the capital city of Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa.” Uganda has many delicious cuisines many of which represent the tribes and cultures served across the country.
Kampala being the capital city and central business hub of the country, has a vast array of restaurants that boost of delicious food with cuisines from all the major cultures of the world.
Take a week and visit are a few of these favourite restaurants around Kampala.
Bon Appetite
There are many local food eateries around Kampala that cater to the needs of many Ugandans and have stood the test of time but Bon Appetit’s still stands out. The restaurant which has been in business for decades still boosts of big crowds during rush- hour; lunch and breakfast. Their katogo is one of the most ordered on Jumia food. The local food menu is available throughout the day just to keep your tummy happy and healthy.
Cafe Javas
Recently adding an eighth installation of restaurant branches to its portfolio, Cafe Javas holds the top spot for being one of the most frequented eateries in town. The restaurant chain started out as an extension to City Oil petrol stations and has grown into a formidable brand name in the country. Javas serves a variety of cuisines ranging from Indian, European to Ugandan. Drop in for their “big breakfast” combos. All their restaurants adhere to Halal standards set by the Uganda Muslim Council.
Legends Bar Kampala
Before it was Legends, the bar and restaurant had the rugby crowds thundering loud on the weekends whenever there was a game. Now, Legends thunders with rugby, pulsates with music and serves sumptuous buffets at lunch time. The buffet menu served is local food that changes everyday of the week so as to give your palate a tour of Ugandan dishes. And then when you are done partying through the night, you can try the delicious roasted meats from the grill.
Chok Di Thai
A little taste of Thailand in Uganda on a cold evening after a long day at work is all you need. Located alongside Moyo close in Kampala, Chok Di Thai opened for business in 2014 and has been serving up delicious Thai cuisines since then. Try the curry or stir fries they might keep you going back.
Nanjing Restaurant
Chinese cuisines vary in tastes and style of cooking and Nanjing has done well in showcasing what he Republic offers. Nanjing has two branches all easily to access in the Kololo neighbourhood with a view to behold as you dine.
Bufundas
These are several hidden restaurants around Kampala serving some of the best local food dishes at the cheapest prices. Bufundas is plural for kafunda which can be loosely translated to meaning a makeshift restaurant. They are usually located downtown, construction sites or washing lots around Kampala. Servings in bufundas are sufficient enough to keep you coming back, that is why most people leave their offices at lunch for those sumptuous meals.
Mythos Greek Taverna
A unique and quite rare dining experience is what Mythos as it’s commonly known offers you delicious greek food and tailored cocktails from the in-house mixologist. Mythos has been in business since 2014, the thoughtfulness that went in the interior design makes you appreciate the beauty of greek architecture in the restaurant. Their best moments are during the dinner rush and lest we forget, sundays with the sumptuous Congolese buffet.
Khana Khazana
Indian food is world reknown to be full of delicious flavours and you will find it all at Khana Khazana located alongside Acacia Avenue. When at Khana Khazana make sure to ask for their signature dish; Khazana chicken curry with naan/bread/ rice.
Yujo Sushi Bar and Izakaya
Sushi is not just a trend, sushi is part of the traditions and culture of the Japanese people. Yujo Izakaya has a sushi bar where the chef prepares for you delicious sushi bites as you sip on Sake (rice wine). And if Sushi is not your cup of tea, the hot kitchen will entice you with flavours that will take you to the hills and valleys of Japan. Yujo Izakaya is a traditional Japanese restaurant and tavern.
Holy Crepe
How about breakfast with a view of Kololo and Naguru? Holy Crepe is a creperie that serves you delicious waffles, fried chicken and crepes. The breeze in Kololo will calm your spirits, as you sip on fresh juice made from fruits grown in Uganda as you wait for your meal.
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What To Do In Uganda – Tips For Foodies
When you think of foodie destinations around the world, Uganda may not feature on the top list. But, there is a reason that makes Uganda a special foodie destination of its own. Its rich multi-cultural heritage is remarkably worth appreciating as visitors have plenty to experience. In most of the Uganda safari lodges, hotels, camps, guesthouses, etc, visitors are presented with a range of meal choices- all carefully prepared and offering a taste that blows visitors’ minds.
Where you eat matters a lot while on Uganda safaris. There are several eating options to consider in Uganda including restaurants, hotels, lodges, guesthouses, etc. In Kampala, some of the best places- restaurants/hotels to consider eating from include Royal View Hotel, Sheeba’s Palace, Eureka Place Hotel and Suites Ltd, Mediterraneo Restaurant, Café Javas, 2K restaurant, Khana Khazana, etc.
Know your budget
Some places are expensive and others are relatively affordable. As a traveler, you must know your budget and where to eat from depending on your wallet size. There are classic budget, mid-range, and luxury restaurants, hotels, lodges, etc all spread in Uganda.
What to eat- Uganda dishes to try out
Uganda is a multicultural nation and everyone has something to have a taste. Here are some of the incredible dishes to try out Luwombo, Katogo, groundnut sauce, muchomo, posho, and Rolex.
Health Tips-Hygiene
While there is plenty to eat, not all are worth putting in the stomach. Your health matters a lot on any safari. On the streets of Kampala, you will come across people selling food but it is good to be keen on the hygiene of the place before you think of eating something. This is why in most cases we recommend that you settle in a clean and good setup restaurant or hotel in town and have something. Yes, there is plenty on the streets including roasted chicken, meat, etc but we don’t want you to have a running stomach at the end of the day.
Eat local food
Most of the food prepared in Uganda is freshly harvested in the gardens. This means you have rich food with minerals free of preservatives. The restaurant management purchase and cook them, ready for consumption, and no need to refrigerate them. You will be served it hot to allow you to have a true taste of freshly harvested foods.
Be keen while wandering around
While in the search for what to eat, be keen on taxis, trucks, boda-bodas, etc. At times, they don’t alert you and not to be knocked, always stay alert while crossing or walking on the streets. As a pedestrian, you must be super careful while wandering around the streets.
Eat like a local
Uganda is a country of plenty, and if the budget is tight, there are options. You can try out a well-prepared Rolex. This is one of the cheapest foods in Uganda and can be enjoyed in a restaurant or takeaway.
Avoid following crowds
You have seen a crowd running after someone then you follow- this isn’t acceptable. There are many incidences that cause such crowds, perhaps protests, etc, and what follows perhaps teargas. Better to stay alert regardless of the fact that such incidences rarely happen and even when they occur, it is on a small scale.
Be respectful
Uganda is a friendly country- anyone you meet gives a great smile of a warm welcome and while looking for what to eat, don’t be disrespectful. Dress decently while considering the cultures of the locals.
Keep the street clean
After you have used containers of your food, don’t throw them on the streets. Keep them in the container in your vehicle and they will be dumped in a specific location on your arrival at the destination. Besides, avoid displaying your expensive phones while on the streets of Kampala or any city/town.
Read More5 Tips for Easier Parking in Cities
City parking has never been an easy task-from finding a perfect place to keep you and the car safe to preventing obstructive parking as well as preventing car break-ins. simply living in the City is one of things that worry potential car buyers or those planning to visit the City soon. Finding safe parking as well as driving is always a concern for any driver but worry not because we bring you the 5 tips for easier City parking.
Go through our 5 tips for easier City parking to keep you and the Car safe during your road trip in Uganda;
Make sure that all your valuables are kept out of sight
You are probably aware that keeping valuables out of sight is applicable almost everywhere-when travelling solo, staying in a Hotel and now during City parking. Most car thefts and break-in during Car parking happen when you leave your wallet, expensive jewelry, Ipad, tablet or camera exposed.
It is therefore recommended to always stash these items in areas where people outside the Car won’t see or be able to take as the car is parked in the City. Some travellers keep valuables under Car seats or in the glove compartment while bigger items are normally placed in the boots of the Car and secured with a key. It’s not as if the windows have to be locked at all times and therefore, feel free to open them but only a little to make it difficult for thieves to reach down in trying to unlock the door.
First check your surroundings when pulling out
While it seems obvious, emphasis is needed when finding easier City Parking by first checking your surroundings while pulling out of the Parking lost within the City Center. If you don’t pay close attention, you are likely to run into accidents, resulting from commotion and chaos hence vigilance is required at all times. It is therefore advisable to check all mirrors for other road users-cars, motorbikes as well as pedestrians and any other distractions on your way and if you are packed along the roadside, make attention to your shoulder to make sure that there aren’t any oncoming cars within the blind spot.
Avoid parking near or within Emergency service centers (like ambulances, fire trucks and others) and these places always have signs.
Be extra cautious of Parking Garages
It is undeniable that Parking garages help in keeping the Car safe from natural elements (sunshine, rain and others) but they rarely keep it safe from other people. In most cases, the City parking garages are hot spots for thieves and other criminals who might take advantage of ignorant car owners. In most cases, these criminals take advantage of people who easily get distracted hence might be difficult to protect themselves. For this reason, it is important to become aware of your environment by not using headphones, not talking on phone and avoiding distraction.
Keep in your Car in case it breaks down
You always have to feel safe when driving through the City but in case of car breakdowns in remote and isolated places, precaution is required. Keep in mind that when the place is remote and new to you, it would be a bad place for you. For this reason, make sure to raise the Car hood in addition to turning on your emergency lights as you stay in the Car. Even if someone stops to offer assistance, you can always open the window slightly and talk to them.
Park in the right spots
Getting the right parking spot is important when finding City Parking and one principle is not parking too far from the City Center. However, also parking too close to crowded areas is challenging and stressful for most drivers.
Read MoreTop 5 Rental Cars in Kampala
Having the right ride is one of the most crucial things to keep in mind when thinking of renting a car in Uganda. It is undeniable that having an uncomfortable car is the most incredible spoiler of Safaris because you are likely to delay on the road, miss some interesting activities or even get involved in unpleasant situations like accidents.
The good news is that we offer a wide range of rental cars in Kampala City to make your choices from, thus wherever you are planning to travel to within the Capital and regardless of your transport requirements, we promise to provide the perfect Rental Car with our numerous options. For the Cars we offer, their descriptions are also listed to allow you make the right decision and therefore, here are the top 5 Rental Cars in Kampala City;
The Toyota Rav 4
The Toyota Rav 4 is one of the top Rental Cars used in Kampala and is SUV manufactured under the “Toyota Motors” Brand-one of the top Car manufacturers in the World. This small car is wither 2-doored and 4-doored, the latter having a capacity of carrying 4 passengers who enjoy comfort in addition to enough legroom. For the car features, expect enough cargo space in the rear, air-conditioning, FM Radio/CD Player and a USB Drive. This is considered the most economical all-round for weekend getaways and business trips.
The Safari land Cruiser
Built for long distance road trips, the Safari Land Cruisers are 4X4 to explore the stunning but untamed wildernesses of Uganda. Interestingly, they have exquisite features such as the pop-up roof, a cooler box where you can put all kinds of drinks for your road trip, wells-paced seats for ultimate comfort and most importantly have huge tyres with the capability of maneuvering through the roughest of terrains. This means that if you ever need a Rental Car for your business and filming projects, bush safaris and Camping Tours, look no further than the Safari Land Cruiser.
Safari Van
Are you planning a memorable road trip with seven of your closest friends or work colleagues? Or is it a Camping safari? You will need to rent a robust safari van that cannot only accommodate all of you but also carry your cargo throughout the road trip. Of the features, expect pop-up roof ideal for game viewing, a cooler box to keep your drinks at the right temperature for the hot weather and are interestingly 4WD to comfortably maneuver through rough terrains. Most group safaris are conducted by this Rental Car and can accommodate a total of 8 passengers with comfortable seats, functioning air-conditioning, ample space for legroom and cargo, and CD Player/FM Radio.
Land Cruiser Prado
State of art engineering, beautiful interiors and comfortable seats with enough legroom and cargo space of Land Cruiser Prado is just amazingly indulgent. This is another remarkable 4X4 Station Wagon car under the Toyota Motors-one of the best manufacturers of automobiles based within Kyoto, Japan. If you are planning a road trip for couples or a small group of close friends, the Land Cruiser Prado is one of the best choices of Rental Cars in Kampala City. Accommodation up to 5 passengers, there is enough legroom, adequate space for your luggage as well as amenities like sunroof, Air-conditioning and CD Player/FM Radio. Whether it’s a business or leisure trip, City excursion, Park adventures, Airport transfers or special projects, simply book for the Land Cruiser Prado.
The Coaster Bus
If you are looking for an affordable Rental Car for a group road trip to National Parks, projects, City Tours and Airport transfers, then choose the Coaster Bus. It is a mid-sized Car with a carrying capacity of 28-30 people that also include the driver. Some of the riveting features in this Rental Car are small Television, air-conditioning, cooler box, a high roof, well-spaced seats with enough legroom and a CD/DVD Player or FM Radio. Not only that, light cargo is kept in the roof rack while the heavy one on the side cargo holder.
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Car Rental Tips Every Ugandan Traveler Should Know
Car rental services have continuously become the most sought-after alternative of traveling in East Africa especially by most holidaymakers. It is the safest and affordable option for holidaymakers to get to their destinations without worries of uncertainties like it is a case with public means. With car rental services, safari-goers enjoy ultimate freedom to navigate through Uganda or any of East African destinations at ease.
Before getting into Uganda or East Africa for a holiday, you must plan appropriately for it and renting a car is remarkably one essential step you shouldn’t leave out. To ensure that you have the most memorable holiday, here are some important tips for car hire in Kampala;
Conduct adequate research and find the best car deal
When looking for the best rental car deal, no need to be on a rush. Ensure you have adequate time and begin a search for available rental cars in Uganda before your actual Uganda road trip. This can guarantee you the best rental car deal of your dream that suits your travel interests in Kampala, Uganda safari parks or any other destination in this Pearl of Africa.
While on a search for the right and best car deal, we advise you not always rush to make a choice on the first agency or company that appears on your eyes. Take time, look through more, then make your considerations and comparison on different aspects like services, rates and other offers you may enjoy when you rent a car with that car hire company.
Though some holidaymakers tend to be taken by the lowest rates, it also puts them into a risk of bumping into undesirable services. With adequate research, it is possible to get the right rental car that is suitable for your road trips in Kampala Uganda.
Get in touch with car rental service provider
Once you have made up your mind to deal with a particular car hire service provider in Kampala/Uganda, next is for you to get in touch with its team. Being a premier car rental company in Uganda, it is possible to reach us online, by phone or walk in to our offices and we shall have your dream car reserved for you. Online, a visitor can send us an email provided on our website-fill into a contact form before you send the email.
It is also possible to contact our reservation team on phone contacts provided on the website. In case you are nearby, you can simply walk into our offices to have a look at our car rental services.
Book online
At this stage, we believe that you already know the kind of rental car to use for your road trip in Kampala Uganda. This means, you must then make confirmation on its availability with car rental agency/company. The car hire company will require you to make a deposit of amount of the total price of the car hire. Once you have made the deposit, we make sure that your preferred rental car is booked for you. The balance will be needed upon your arrival to pick a car or pay online through PayPal, Pesapal, bank (on the account the company provides you) or any mode of payment that shall be provided to you by our reservation team.
Essentials
At the time of booking your rental car in Uganda, you will be asked to send your scanned copies of documents. In case of holidaymakers in need for a vehicle for a self-drive tour in Uganda, a valid driver license or national ID/Passport will be required. The original copies of your documents will be needed on the date of picking your rental car in Uganda. The reservation team will need to take a look at them before handing the car over to you.
What your car hire price includes
The price of car rental in Uganda includes comprehensive insurance, local taxes and visitors enjoy unlimited mileage if traveling within the country. The comprehensive insurance covers the specific number of damages. However, it is always good to inquire your car hire service provider about what the rates cover before.
Confirm your car pick up location
While making booking for your rental car in Uganda or Kampala, let us know of the location and time you want the vehicle to be delivered. It can be within Kampala capital city or Entebbe city; this is because delivering a car outside the 2 places may attract additional charge. Once you have done so, be guaranteed of picking up your car at that agreed location whether you are on self-drive or driver guided safari. But in case the car is available within other places such as Mbarara city, Jinja city, Mbale, Gulu, Masindi, Kasese and others, you may not incur extra cost on car delivery.
Inspect the car
Prior setting off, conduct thorough inspection on the car to be certain it is the one you booked and it is in its better condition. Aside from taking a look at the picture, ensure that it doesn’t have or has some scratches and dents or even take note of them, if the windows and doors work or not, if the indicators work well, if the engine is serviced and the car’s general cleanliness.
Available features in the car plus other facilities
Comfort and safety are essential when finding a car for your road trip in Uganda and therefore, it is important to inquire from your car hire service provider if some features exist in the vehicle. They include among others air conditioners, comfortable seats, central locking plus airbags. In case you plan to go for game viewing in any of the Uganda safari savanna parks, then the car you plan to use should have a pop-up roof.
Drop off time and location
When picking up your rental car in Uganda, the car hire service provider will require you to drop off the car upon your return. This should be done on agreed point and at a particular time which should be complied with to avoid incurring extra charges you didn’t plan for.
Read More5 Best Cars for Business Travel in Kampala
Kampala isn’t only the capital city of Uganda but also the busiest town with several businesses attracting most people to transact, conference, meet or conduct events and many other aspects. There are several areas where businesses in Kampala and Uganda at large are conducted in and outside the capital city. Getting to areas to have your business, meeting, conference done isn’t easy if you don’t have the means. Uganda car hire offer the best alternative to travelers to have their business trips achieved in Kampala or any other big town within the country. Here are our 5 best rental car deals worthy hiring for your business trip/tour in Kampala.
4×4 Range Rover Sport
A full-time 4×4 Range Rover Sport is one of the best rental cars we have for you to achieve your dreams on a business trip in Kampala Uganda. Our Range Rovers are uniquely designed with a distinct exterior and ultimately comfortable interior. We have several of stylish Range Rover Sport Rental cars suitable for all your business trips, conferences, meeting or event desires in Uganda.
Mercedes Benz
When it comes to executive rental cars, none beats our Mercedes Benz car hire. We have the best luxury Mercedes Benz categories from Daimler AG that is credited for its classic luxury cars ranging from Mercedes Benz E class, Mercedes Benz C class, Mercedes G class and many others. If luxury SUVs of Mercedes Benz category that you are looking for then look no further than our exceptional luxury Mercedes Benz G class. Our luxury Mercedes Benz rentals offer exceptional executive treat for you while on business trip in Kampala Uganda.
4×4 Toyota Rav4
Toyota Rav4 rentals aren’t only suitable for self-drive tours but also for business trips in Kampala Uganda. Our Rav4 rentals are compact and Japanese automotive made Toyota. They are among the best SUVs you can rent while on business trip in Uganda or self-drive trip. We have Rav4 rental choices with capacity of 3-5pax and comes with plenty of room for you to have your legs stretched and luggage packed.
Land Cruiser
Rent the best Land Cruisers for your business trips, guided safaris, self-drive trips and other safaris. We have a range of comfortable Land Cruisers for hire and they are suitable for your business road trips in Kampala or outside the capital. They range from Land Cruiser V8, Land Cruiser GX, Land Cruiser Prado TX and others. These are available in full-time 4×4.
Premio
Hire Premio, one of the best sedan cars suitable for all your business trips in Kampala Uganda. Our Toyota Premio rental cars are pocket-friendly and they come with 4 doors, adequate room for luggage with capacity of 5pax inclusive of the driver. You can rent our Premio cars alone or plus a professional driver. They are suitable for visitor road trips on paved routes.
With above 5 best rental car deals, count your business trip in Kampala Uganda achieved. Contact our reservation team and your dream car rental can be reserved for you as soon as possible.
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Road Tripping Uganda: What You Need To Know
As the road network in Uganda continues to improve, the possibilities for in-country road trips are multiplying. There is almost nowhere in Uganda that can’t be reached in a day by car and, depending on your tolerance for hours on the road, the country is becoming increasingly accessible. But, before you leap into the car and drive off toward the horizon there’s a few things you should consider when planning your road trip in Uganda. As the old adage goes, ‘failing to prepare is preparing to fail’ and cross-country road trips are no exception. In fact, the key to a safe and memorable road trip in Uganda is proper organization. KAMPALA CITY’s guide to road trippin’ in the Pearl of Africa will help to get organized before you get on the road.
- Where are we going? Sounds like an obvious place to start, but working out exactly how long you have for the trip will inform the route you take and what have time to reach. Be realistic about how much you can pack into a trip, and remember that journey times in Uganda depend heavily on the prevailing weather and state of the roads. A little reconnaissance goes a long way. Find someone who has travelled a route recently to find out if there’s anything you should know.
- Do you have the right car for the job? Is your car appropriate for the trip that you are planning? Is your Toyota Corolla really going to be able to handle the murram roads of Northeastern Uganda, or the washboard dirt roads in Murchison? Think about where you want to go and make enquiries about the state of the roads in that region, or national park, before making a decision on the vehicle.
- In good repair? Even if you have the right vehicle it still won’t do you any good if it breaks down due to disrepair. Take the opportunity to get the car serviced and fix any niggling problems which could turn into bigger ones en route. Are your brake pads almost worn down? Now is a great time to get them changed before you need to perform an emergency stop in front of a herd of elephants.
- Got breakdown covered? What would happen if you did break down on route? Carrying a few simple tools in the boot may well come in handy. While Ugandan mechanics are some of the best in the world at keeping nearly anything on the road you might have a problem that is beyond even the most resourceful of mechanics. If this sounds like past experience with your vehicle, think about looking into breakdown cover with the Automobile Association of Uganda (www.aau.co.ug) which offers roadside rescue all over Uganda.
- Spare tyres? An absolute necessity for any journey are spare tyres. Check the spare tyre that is already in the car for damage or punctures. All too often we change a tyre, stick the damaged one back in the car and forget to get it fixed. Poor road conditions on murram or debris all make for great flat tyre potential. Make sure you have a jack and all the necessary equipment for changing it should your tyre get punctured. City Tyres in town can help you out with checking your tyres before you go.
- Packed enough jerrycans? There is no such thing as too many jerrycans on a road trip. Not only can they be used for carrying spare fuel, but also water for your radiator and drinking. They can come in handy for makeshift repairs. When planning your trip, think about how many trading centres have fuel stations. Running out of petrol in the middle of Kidepo can be avoided by careful planning of fuel consumption. Now is a good time to work out how much your vehicle uses and how much fuel you will need for your trip. Fill up the vehicle, and jerrycans, at every opportunity. Fuel supply can be unpredictable in rural Uganda, and don’t bank on the national parks having fuel readily available for sale either.
- Maps and guides? Asking for a map in Uganda is often met with a blank stare, or the receipt of a map from 1962. This is starting to change as the country becomes more accessible and tourism increases. Aristoc in Garden City stocks some good maps of popular destinations such as Queen Elizabeth and the Crater Lakes which are adequate for the purposes of navigating. Distances are often an approximate measure which can make fuel calculations tricky, but for estimations of what can be covered in a day they are fine. Don’t forget that features on ordinance survey-style maps may no longer exist (such as forests which have since been felled) if the maps haven’t been recently updated. Your best guide these days is your GPS on a smart phone and google maps – as long as you have internet access you can find your way in some of the most remote locations.
Finally, buckle up, pick a playlist for the journey and make the most of Uganda’s stunning scenery. You haven’t seen Uganda until you’ve seen it by road!
Read More6 Major Spots to Check Out in Kampala
Kampala is the capital city of Uganda. Kampala was founded in the 19th Century, when the king of Buganda had his seat in the hills. The name “Kampala” originated from a British Lord Captain Frederick Lugard on which he built his fort. Originally, the city was limited to a small area of about 50 square kilometers. Historically, this city was dominated by wetlands and hills which form natural breeding grounds for Impala and other members of the antelope species. The Kabaka or King of Buganda ruled this place and turned the hills into his hunting grounds. To date, Kampala city is made up of five divisions namely: Kawempe, Nakawa, Central, Rubaga and Makindye division and each division is represented by a member of Parliament to enable services reach the common man.
As far as security is concerned, Kampala city is tightly guarded by a number of police posts and Army barracks among other security forces. Tight security in Kampala has enabled people to do a number of activities day and night however, less work at night in Kampala but chilling takes the bigger percentage. Would you like to take a tour in Uganda and experience Kampala Nightlife? If you’re ready to get your taste, here’s a look at six major spots you could check out during your visit to the city.
Centenary Park in Kampala central division –
Centenary Park is a small area of bars and restaurants off the side of a shopping mall. It’s more conducive to a few friendly drinks with friends than a night of shenanigans. Laftaz Comedy Lounge hosts events during the week, with plenty of lounge seating to kick back on with a cocktail and enjoy the show. Alternatively, bars like Kyoto are perfect for spreading out with some friends and a round of beers.
Acacia Avenue in central division –
Acacia Avenue is among the shinier streets in Kampala and home to the Acacia Mall and some few higher-end apartments and hotels. If you want to entertain your friend please add Acacia Avenue on your list because the place is littered with bars, restaurants and nightclubs. For me it was the perfect spot to catch up on some sports. Further along the avenue are bars such as The Wink and Casablanca, attracting a more local crowd. For this reason, they’re perhaps a little more intimidating for the regular tourist. The hustle and bustle of Kampala during the day transforms into vibrant nightlife after dark.
Ntinda in Nakawa division –
Not far from Acacia Avenue is the Ntinda area, which is somewhat of a more contemporary and chic area of the city. Its indie flavour makes it quite popular with students, and it’s also littered with little restaurants and bars (some of which are a bit high on the price scale). Koko Bar, filled with stylish students at night, blares music out its windows into the street. A few blocks away — just outside Ntinda — is the popular Cayenne, which doubles as a restaurant and is one of the more well-known bars in town.
Kabalagala in Makindye division –
Kabalagala is strategically situated at Ggaba road making it easier to connect to Gaba beach and other beaches at the shores of Lake Victoria. I wouldn’t say Kabalagala is dangerous, but it is definitely a different vibe than places like Acacia Avenue, and if it’s your first day on the continent, you may feel a little out of your depth. The clubs are big, loud, and crowded, so if that’s your scene, this is where you should head. Basic common sense is more than enough to keep you safe. There are also many venues to choose from, so it’s a good idea to head there with a local friend or guide to help you bar-hop through the best of them.
The Industrial Area in central division –
If you like your nightlife experience with a bit of flash, the Industrial Area is your best place to chill from. While in Industrial area expect to see blazers, high heels, short skirts, shiny sofas, and glitter. There are several clubs in this part of town, but Club Guvnor, Club Silk, and Club Play among others are the devilish trio that keep people sliding on the dance floor until sunrise.
Salsa nights –
Latin dance scene in Kampala. Salsa is big, along with other dances like bachata and kizomba. Almost every night of the week the dance community will gather in one of the bars around the city, usually starting with a free (or very cheap) beginner’s lesson followed by social dancing. This is a great way to meet new people, learn new things and meet Kampala to people up close.
10 Apps that will Make Your Life in Kampala Easier
You cannot fail to admit that technological advancements have led to so many improvements in the general daily activities for almost everyone in the world. When you look at living within the city years before and in this modern time, there is a huge leap. A lot can be found at a click of a mouse or even a call away instead of you moving miles for them.
One of the leading start-up hubs is Uganda, and believe it or not, techies are getting creative by the day. Lately, you will find an app for almost everything in the country. As long as you have Internet connection, these apps will make your life a little easier.
Uber
Maybe one of the newest on the market, Uber is an international transportation app owned by Uber Technologies Inc. The company joined the Ugandan market in 2016 and has been helping Ugandans acquire safe transportation options around Kampala and Entebbe at affordable prices. Uber is available on both android and iOS, and prices range from Ush5,000 to Ush80,000 — depending on the distance travelled.
Safeboda
Termed as the “uber of bikes,” is a transportation app for a company that came into business in 2014. The concept was to provide Ugandans with safe boda boda travel options and help reduce the many motorcycle related accidents and crime in the country. Safeboda boasts of more than 500 registered boda boda rides who are trained in first aid and adhere to traffic rules. The app is in its nascent stages and might have a few bugs here and there but it is an essential. Safeboda can be downloaded for both Android and iOS.
Yoza
The word yoza can be translated to mean “wash” in Luganda. This is a laundry app that connects users to someone who can do their laundry at a price within the user’s location. Yoza App prices are categorised in packages which range from Ush100,000 for four months to Ush1,000,000 for six months. Packages specifically meet the user’s needs, be it a family or just a student. You can download the app for free on your App store.
Yoza has been profiled by international media houses such as CNN and The Financial Times.
Jumia Apps
Jumia Group is an e-commerce group of companies with offices around Africa. In Uganda, Jumia has; Jumia Travel, Jumia Food, Jumia, Jumia Jobs, and Jumia House. All apps help you do everything from the touch of your phone and can be downloaded for free on both Android and iOS. Jumia Travel is a hotel and flighting booking website with travel packages, Jumia Food helps you order food from restaurants around Kampala to Lubowa. Jumia House will help you buy or rent real estate around the country while Jumia Jobs is a human resource services company that helps you find a job or hire someone.
Quick Taxi
Launched in January 2017, the transportation app is so far another cheaper option to Uber. The taxis are owned by the company so clients can get easy feedback on driver behaviour when they report. You can download the free app and try it today.
Pearl Guide
For travel and tourism, the Pearl Guide is one of the best go to Apps and even better they have travel campaigns every year that will take you around the Uganda for a small fee. The app gives you a guide of almost everything social happening within Kampala.
Uganda Hospitals
How about an App that helps you know locations of registered medical facilities within your vicinity? The free App is quite vital because we all do not know when an emergency might strike.
Uganda Hospitals app is only available for android.
Banking Apps
Over the years banking has evolved and in Uganda, many of the financial institutions have caught up. Banks like Stanbic, Centenary, Barclays among many other have apps that facilitate online transactions as well as other financial activities for their clients.
Teleco Apps
With the growth of technology has come apps that help you not stress calling your mobile carrier’s customer care every time you have a problem. All you have to do is download apps like MTN UG Assistant and you have your queries worked on.
TV Apps
You do not have to own a TV to follow up with local news or any other shows on television. You can now download free apps for NTV Uganda or NBS TV to keep you updated. Kindly remember it is not safe to use these apps while driving or walking on the street.
History of Uganda
Learn more about the history of Uganda with this wonderful App and if you are history buff you know how useful this is. You can download this app for free on your App and lose yourself in a collection of events that predate the 1800s.