Get the Best Deals on One Way Car Rentals in Uganda
Getting the best deal on one-way rentals in Uganda isn’t an easy task! But here is how you can get the best deal on a one-way rental while on Uganda safari holiday.
Check the rates
One-way rental prices in Uganda can change from day to day, location to location or from time to time just like it is with gasoline rates. Rather than bumping into the first rental price you get; it is better to spare sometime to research online. This can earn you the best deal on one-way rentals in Uganda.
Scan various travel deal sites
Nearly all car rental companies in Uganda have websites displaying their fleet of rentals for visitor road trips. They attach rates to every rental car and this can help you make comparisons to find the best rates with best offers. Where results indicate a significantly better deal than the rest then take a step to pay a visit to hire company site, put your specifics. Also, be mindful of hidden taxes/extra fees when scanning for best deals via aggregator site.
Skip airport hire car locations
Yes, hiring a car for your one-way travel in Uganda at Entebbe Airport can be convenient but they are costly. The rates for one-way rental at the airport can be higher than if you rented the same car outside. Take a few kilometers from the airport and you can land yourself the best deal.
Rental cars at airport location usually come with location taxes and fees which the agency/company can transfer to clients. Where you prefer one hire company over the other, search for its site to ascertain on the locations nearby than airport. Also, be mindful of the rate differences. For best deals, contact one-way car hire Uganda and you won’t be left in regrets on your Uganda safari!
Consider club/card discounts
There is possibility that you can secure a better hire deal without even knowing it. If you are a member somewhere, you may be eligible for coupon codes which earn you some savings. On the other hand, prepaying for hire car can also earn you some discount in case you make the best use of your credit card. Some of these memberships partner with most rental companies and their members enjoy some discounts provided you pay using their card.
Check out for discount codes
Uganda has many rental companies and at times some of them don’t provide rental deals. Before considering renting a car with any rental company, first, search for company’s name in the coupon site’ search box to get active coupon codes. Go ahead to paste the code into the promo code box. This will help you take note of rates differences as you identify for the best deal.
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Best 20 Restaurants Where to Eat in Kampala
Uganda as a nation loves food, and no celebration is ever complete without a feast. As a result there is no shortage of eating places in the country. Food is generally cheap and there is something to suit every pocket and taste.
Prices range from a mere Ush. 5000 to 60,000 a head depending on what you have and where you choose to dine.
Local:
Available in most places. Try the “Nyoma Choma” available most drinking places also referred to as “drinking joints”. But the favourite places for “nyoma choma” are:- Kabalagala or commonly referred to as “Half London”, Kisementi, Wandegeya and Bamboo nest in Bugolobi.
The favorites are “Past Leaders” an affectionate name for pork. Fried or roasted chicken also available at almost all “joints”. Most of the hotels in Kampala serve extensive menu of local Ugandan cuisines, the most famous being the “Luwombo” – a delicious stew steamed in banana leaves – a must try!. Uganda’s fresh water fish is also highly recommended especially the Nile Perch and the Tilapia.
Italian:
For really good, classic Italian dishes, try Mamba Point, run by Guido and Fiona. Fancy a superb pizza with tilapia fish followed by an exotic ice cream! try the Mammamia on the terrace of the Speke Hotel.
Indian:
Indian restaurants are also well represented in Kampala.
Sam’s near Farmer Choice, the Haandi in the commecial Plaza serves delicious North Indian cuisine from the Punjab (you may watch the Roomali Roti being made in its kitchen through a large window). The Maharaja serves curries and tandoori cuisine in delightful surroundings at the Speke hotel, and, at the Masala Chaat House you may enjoy the delicious Dosas and Uttapams of South India. An excellent vegetarian restaurant serving truly delicious Indian delicacies can be found in Dewinton Road opposite the Crafts Market. Highly recommended.
Greek:
Andy the Greek located on Acacia Avenue, (run by Andy and Marie) provides spectacularly accomplished traditional Hellenic dishes, meze and superb seafood in a comfortable and very welcoming environment.
Chinese:
Ms. Fang Min is the perfectionist of Chinese food at the Fang Fang restaurant located Communications House 1st floor, offers a varied menu cooked by three chefs, each specializing in a different provincial Chinese cuisine. A truly superb Thai Restaurant can be found on road called Krua,
European:
If you are a fan of fondues, try Le Plein Vent for a mouthwatering and substantial meal. You could be forgiven for thinking that you’re in Paris when eating at The Crocodile Cafe and Bar.
Al fresco dining in the beautiful gardens of the Gallery Cafe combines really good food with attractive pictures and don’t miss enjoying an authentic taste of Ugandan cuisine at the the Kampala Casino on Thursdays.
Read MoreCar Rental Deals in Uganda
Looking for information about car rental deals in Uganda? Are you planning to visit Uganda? Are you confused about where to get the cheapest Uganda car rentals? Take heart Uganda like other tourist countries have all means of transport and its easy to land on discount car rentals in Uganda at any time, In this article, we shall concentrate more on how to go about car rental in Uganda.
There are many types of vehicles to hire from Uganda car rental companies depending on the number of people you have. There are those for three people, then minibusses that can carry up to 9 people.
One thing for sure is that Uganda has the worst roads so the best way to travel in Uganda is to hire your vehicle if you can manage. It will be good if you can get yourself a 4 wheel drive vehicle. This will help you to maneuver the bad roads.
Uganda weather is some times unpredictable and for that matter, a four-wheel-drive vehicle will guide you in times of rainy seasons.
As the competition for tourists in Uganda is the order of the day, it will not be hard for you to get the best but cheap if you know how to bargain. Ugandans are trick they will never give you the last price at first, so make sure to bargain first.
Another thing you should put into consideration when going about car rental deals in Uganda is that you must know how far you want to travel and for how many days you will need that vehicle. For those who use the vehicle for long days are normally given a discount compared to those for one day.
Uganda is a small country that is easy to circumnavigate within days and this will be easy if you have your vehicle. With many tourist attractions scattered all over the country, it will be impossible to travel by public means and some places are far from public transport means.
It is easy to rent a car in Uganda. What you have to do is look on the internet or use your airline agent to book for you one. I bet, there are no other means of sightseeing in Uganda other than using Uganda car rental Companies. And the best of all is that they are cheap and affordable.
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Kampala City Yange – A Clean Sweep
Cleaning might not be your idea of fun but Kampala City Yange wants to change all that. Monthly cleaning exercises are taking on a party feel in Kampala. The people who initiated the programme are still holding their breath hoping that this, like many other start-up activities in the city, will not die an early death. But with growing participation and attention Kampala City Yange (My City), could be the next big activity to attend in Kampala.
Modeled on Rwanda’s monthly clean-up dubbed, Umuganda, City Yange aims to get everyone in Kampala to drop everything one Saturday of the month to clean the city.
City Yange’s premise is that it takes more than just the city authorities to keep Kampala clean. Even with garbage trucks to take trash out to the dumping area in Kiteezi, Kampala still suffers from excessive rubbish strewn on roadsides and in open areas. Cleaning it up will take everyone’s participation – and prevention.
KCCA do have regular cleaning teams who start as early as 4am. Unfortunately, their hard work is usually completely undone by midday from those coming into the business districts. The three million people who descend on Kampala each day to trade are simply too much for the cleaning programmes. A more enduring initiative is clearly necessary to get people to maintain and pick up after themselves.
This is where City Yange comes in. Participation has been steadily growing since the exercise was launched in November 2011. Last weekend, the latest clean-up effort by City Yange was based in the Bwaise suburb and it attracted the biggest gathering so far.
KCCA has fully embraced City Yange and at the events KCCA workers provide gloves, masks, hoes and rakes. T-shirts and aprons are also in abundance for everyone involved.
In previous months, the cleaning has centred on other areas – such as the New Taxi Park. Drivers were encouraged to take a few hours off to clean up the place where they do their business.
Isaac Rucci, a former member of the 1990s boy band, Limit X and a few friends of his are the brains behind City Yange. According to Rucci, it is designed to instill a sense of belonging in Kampala dwellers. “If we can start thinking differently about our environment, it could lead to greater development for the city,” Rucci says.
Festive music and ‘celebrities’ working alongside others who attend seem to be two of the biggest drawing forces. Social media sites are alive with invites to the next programme just before the date and media newsmakers all saying they shall be there cleaning which helps to attract a larger crowd.
City Yange make sure to emphasise that it is easy to get involved as well as participate. Rucci says it is a throwback to olden days in Buganda where a similar programme, Bulungi Bwansi (Beauty of the Land) was a normal fixture on the calendar. No one was ever forced; people just knew when it was time to get cleaning. “That is what we want to see in Kampala,” Rucci states.
On the cleaning days the action starts at 8am and goes on until 1pm. Each event focuses on a different area and the volunteers involved unblock drainage pipes, sweep dust off the roads, dig up weeds and cleaning up garbage or the mess left by animals. There is no flinching; the dirtier the garbage, the more honourable it is to clean it up.
The plan for the future is to promote the programme so that Kampala residents take it up on their own. While the organisers take the action to different parts of the city this won’t be sustainable unless a city-wide movement to clean-up – and prevent littering – is embraced without reliance on KCCA or City Yange. However, with the excitement around the event, it might not be too ambitious of KCCA’s Sandra Natukunda to wish that, “Soon, every last Saturday of the month will be a public holiday in Uganda, so as to have everyone actively involved in the exercise.”
Getting involved depends on how connected you are on the social networks. Facebook and Twitter are the best places to start. From journalists to preachers to social activists, anyone who is anyone on the social scene is co-opted to push the agenda. If you want to get involved go to either City Yange’s Facebook site: Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CityYange or their website: http://www.cityyange.com/. If your school, company, or group is looking for a great way to give back to the city this is it!
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10 Tips to Enjoying Kampala Nightlife
One of the most vibrant things about Uganda is the Nightlife like no other place. Kampala’s Nightlife gives you the feeling of being in Las Vegas hence worth experiencing while on a safari in Uganda. Is it live music or bars? You can experience it in Kampala. Bars stay open till dawn which is why it is said that “Kampala is the City that never sleeps”. Some of the prominent spots to visit for unforgettable Nightlife experiences in Uganda include Centenary Park, Acacia Avenue, Kisementi, Ntinda, Kabalagala Salsa Nights, and the Industrial area among others.
However, like any0ther busy City, you need to be cautious and follow some safety and security guidelines to have an enjoyable Nightlife Experience in Kampala, and these include;
Don’t leave drinks unattended to
This is important to avoid strangers putting anything in your drinks to make you pass out. If this happens, then you lose everything you have. Even when the drinks are covered by the waiters or waitresses, don’t leave them unattended unless if there is a trusted person.
Do not flash money around
Avoid showing people that you have a lot of money especially foreign currencies such as US Dollars, UK Pounds, and Euros when going out at night within Kampala City. This draws more attention from the people including thieves hence making you a potential target for robbery and even death.
Avoid displaying your expensive phone and other valuables
Expensive gadgets such as smartphones are also targets for theft hence always keep them far from the eyes of onlookers because you can’t know who or when you will be robbed. If you put it in the open, you will realize it has varnished and your sim card removed. Therefore whether you are going to the toilet or in a public place, keep your gadgets out of sight or better still leave them in the Hotel room when going out and instead carry a cheap button phone.
Security at the Night clubs
Interestingly, most nightclubs and bars have security personnel commonly known as “bouncers” as well as armed security guards to ensure the safety and security of “night lovers”. All revelers are scanned and searched before accessing the places. The most important thing is to move with any kind of identification in case of emergencies.
Always move with a Ugandan who has lived in Kampala for a long time
If you are in Kampala for the first time, it is advisable to move with a trusted local/Ugandan while on your night out. This will keep you out of a lot of trouble or help with bargaining and translating in the case of local languages. However, this will cost you some extra shillings although it’s worth it because you will enjoy your time.
Use special Hire Taxi especially Uber Taxis
If you are leaving the bars or nightclubs late in the night, it’s important to hire special hire taxis especially Uber drivers instead of random Boda Boda riders because some of them are robbers. The Hotel can negotiate better prices for you because discounts can be offered than when you negotiate yourself.
The use of drugs is prohibited
Any kind of drugs including cocaine, marijuana, Mira (Mairungi), or heroine are totally prohibited in Uganda. A minimum (Shs 80, 000) or more for foreigners will be charged if found with illegal drugs, hence avoid trouble (jail) during your Uganda safaris.
Be careful with the Night flowers (sex workers)
There are some places in Kampala you will find prostitutes/sex workers. They might be attractive, speak fluent English but remember that the rate of HIV/AIDS is high in Uganda than in your home country hence doesn’t let beauty blind your eyes and common sense. Make sure to use ABC (Abstain, Be faithful, and Condom use) to prevent regretting your time in Uganda. Some of these sex workers will even rob you of your phones, money, and other valuables.
Always move with Common sense
Make sure to move with common sense. Don’t drink too much alcohol, be aware of conmen, and don’t trust anyone while on your night out in Kampala, so be extra careful. With this and more tips, you will have unforgettable Kampala nightlife.
Read MoreBest 8 Weekend Trips You can Take from Kampala
Everyone desires to live in Kampala but time reaches when you will feel the need to escape from the city bustle. And weekend trips are definitely the best alternative to you that city escape and you will experience something unique. Choosing that one exceptional place for your weekend trips from Kampala may also seem challenging but with the check list below, you will get back home when filled with lots of memories.
Entebbe
Entebbe is that one place anyone planning for weekend trip from Kampala should consider a must-visit while on Uganda safari. A visit to Entebbe offers the best relaxation and chilling experience for anyone in need for affordable weekend trip. It is set on the scenic shores of Lake Victoria the world’s largest fresh water lake, approximately one hour’s drive off Kampala capital city. It is accessible by special hire taxi, private vehicle or matatu bus. Its strategic location makes it a perfect weekend/romantic getaway in Uganda. There are many places for visitors to stay, bars and restaurants as well as a lot more for you do including visiting the Botanical gardens, boat trip on Lake Victoria, visit to the reptile village, relax on its beautiful sandy beaches.
A visit to Entebbe also lets you explore the Uganda Wildlife Education Center where most rescued wildlife species are taken care of. Move around or embark on an exceptional behind the scene tour for you to interact with locals.
Jinja
Popular as adrenaline adventure capital in East Africa, Jinja prides itself as a home to the source of the Nile. Jinja is about 2-3 hours’ drive from Kampala capital city and straddles just on the banks of the River Nile. A weekend trip in Jinja lets you take part in various thrilling adventure experiences including white water rafting, kayaking, boat cruise, boat cruise, jet boating, bungee jumping, horseback riding around the local communities adjacent the Nile.
Sipi Falls
Head out to Sipi Falls in Eastern Uganda to explore and experience this scenic site. The Sipi Falls is comprised of 3 magical waterfalls and it is approximately 6 hours’ drive from Kampala. It is set at elevation 1775 at th foothills of Mount Elgon and it is perfect to explore on Uganda safari especially by enthusiastic hikers. Hiking to the Sipi Falls lets you feel and refresh yourself with fresh air and get the best of its breathtaking sceneries.
Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park is 4 hours’ drive away from Kampala making Uganda’s most accessible park. Its easy access makes it the perfect weekend getaway from Kampala capital city. Lake Mburo National Park was established in 1983 and sits in an area of about 270sq.kms which also makes it one of the smallest national parks in Uganda.
A visit to Lake Mburo National Park while on Uganda safari lets you explore and experience its diverse wildlife species which sprawl in its vast savanna grassland including among others lions, leopards, buffaloes, Rothschild giraffes, impalas, warthogs, klipspringer, burchells zebras, hippos, topis, elands, jackals and over 350 bird species including martial eagles and red-faced barbets in the acacia-wooded savannah, pelicans, fish eagles, herons, papyrus yellow warblers and African fin foots in the wetlands, bronze tailed starling, crested crane, Coqui Francolin, Emerald-spotted Wood, Rufous-bellied Heron, Bateleur, blue napped coucal, Nubian woodpecker, pennant winged nightjars, swamp flycatchers, go away bird, bronze tailed starling, shoebill stork.
A weekend gateway to Lake Mburo National Park allows you take part in different activities including game drives through its magical savannas, bird watching, boat cruise, horseback riding to mention but a few.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Founded in 1997, the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is set in Nakasongola district about 7 kilometers away from the Kampala-Gulu highway and about 176 kilometers from Kampala. It is where the wild Rhinos thrive which makes them the major attractions within the Sanctuary. However, it also inhabits about 300 species of birds including among others the African pied wagtails, Barred warblers, Curlew Sandpiper, African pygmy kingfisher, Fan-tailed widow cuckoo, the Dark-caped yellow warblers, the double-toothed barbets, Eurasian Hobby, Emerald-spotted wood Dove, Africa morning Dove, Egyptian goose, Common waxbills, African open-billed storks, crested francolins, the African Paradise Flycatcher, Augur buzzard, Crowned hornbills, Dusky tit, Bare-faced go-away bird, Black and white Manikin, Eastern grey plantain eater, Barn swallow, Bat Hawk, Red-knobbed coot, the red-rumped swallow, Red-throated Wryneck, red-winged Doves, Ross’ turaco, Sacred Ibis, Rufus-billed herons, Saddle-billed storks, the Sand Martins, Black and white shrike flycatcher, Goliath Herons, Black-crowned waxbills, giant kingfishers, yellow-fronted canary, black crowned Tchagra, foxes weaver, the black-bellied Bustard, shoebill storks, Red-headed weavers, Scaly-throated honey guide, Scarlet-chested sunbirds, sedge warblers, wood sandpiper, semi-colored flycatcher, the grey-backed fiscal shrike, Blue-napped mouse bird, grey-backed Camaroptera, blue-cheeked bee-eater, Green wood hoopoe, blue-breasted kingfisher, green crombec, white0winhged terns, Black-winged bishop, greater blue-eared starlings, black-shouldered kites, great sparrow hawks, black kites, grey crowned cranes, great reed warblers, great egret, black-headed gonoleks, yellow-billed shrike, grassland Pipit, black Cuckoo, Senegal Coucal.
Visitors on Uganda safari to Murchison Falls National Park the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the best stopover point. While here, you can embark on rhino tracking, nature walks among other activities.
Murchison Falls National Park
Set in Northwestern Uganda about 4-5 hours’ drive away from Kampala, Murchison Falls National Park is of no doubt a premier safari destination in the pearl of Africa. It is an exceptional weekend gateway destination worth exploring while on Uganda safari. Murchison Falls National Park sits in an area of about 3840 square kilometers which makes it the largest of all the ten national parks in Uganda. Its iconic tourist attraction is Murchison falls-which is one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls which you can witness squeezing itself in a narrow gorge of not more than 8 meters before plunging about 43 meters. A weekend trip in this national park offers you a chance to explore its huge concentration of wildlife including among others the African bush elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopards, chimpanzees, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, warthogs, as well as over 451 bird species including the rare shoe-billed stork, dwarf kingfisher, Goliath heron, white-thighed hornbill and great blue Turaco.
Kibale Forest National Park
Set in Western Uganda, approximately 5 hours’ drive away from Kampala, Kibale Forest National Park is another most incredible site worth exploring on weekend trip. It is a perfect site to visit by primate lovers, especially if you are interested in chimpanzee tracking experiences. Kibale Forest National Park is the ultimate destination for primate safaris in Uganda given its unique concentration of 14 different primate species. It sits in an area of about 795sq.kms, inhabiting about 13 primate species including over 1500 chimpanzees, red tailed monkeys, red colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, pottos, bush babies, olive baboons, L’Hoest monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys as well as over 350 bird species.
Ssese Islands
Ssese Islands are magical islands on Lake Victoria and comprised of 8 different islands. They feature untouched pristine rain-forest with Bugala Island being the largest of all, about 3 hours by ferry. These islands are perfect for weekend trips and offer the best relaxation and chilling environment for you and your dear ones. Others include Banda Island which is about 4 hours boat ride from Entebbe, Bulago Island to popular Pineapple Bay Resort.
In summary, think of weekend gateway and think not beyond the above listed places and you won’t be left regrets in your life!
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5 Tips for a Successful Self Drive in Uganda
To have a vacation outside your country is often a relaxing option, but sometimes there is nothing better than taking a self drive holiday tour on Ugandan roads. Car rental companies in Uganda prepare countless self-drive itineraries for travelers willing to visit Uganda. Uganda is one of the top tourist destinations in the world with lucrative car rental services for the visitors like car hire services, airport transfer services, booking accommodation for their clients and providing full camping gear services. Below are tips to make your next self drive holiday safari on the open road a seamless experience in Uganda.
Preparation in advance
For every self drive safari either in your home country or in a foreign country has to be planned at the initial stages. This will enable you to prepare in advance for everything needed for a safari. It will give time to get the costs of a safari and be prepared with the necessary documents like the passport, national identity card, medical forms and enough clothes for the journey. As the saying, the early bird catches the warmth, your preparation will enable the service providers (car rental companies in Uganda) too be prepared and reserve the best car you would use with the emergency items for the whole journey.
Safety is paramount. Uganda is a country that is peacefully and safe to travel due to the stability that has been witnessed for the last 30 years. However, personal safety is necessary. With your already booked car rented from one Kampala’s best service providers (car rental companies), you should be vigilant about your car and other personal property especially when you are within the city Kampala. Though the city is comprised of hospital people, you should know that there are different people including the merciful ones and the ruthless ones! There are petty thieves whose aim is to steal accessories from your car such as mirrors, lights, indicators, etc. You should also take note of not leaving your valuable items on display such as laptops – these attract thieves who can forcefully break into your car. Here you are recommended to lock your car properly and raise the wind seals when you are in the traffic jam.
Parking
You should endeavor to park in safe places. While in Kampala, make sure that you park in the right parking spaces. You shpuld always remember to pay for your parking tickets given that if they are kept unpaid, you can end up paying a heavy fine.
Keep the rules of traffic on the road
Like any other country in the world, Uganda has rules governing the roads. It drives on the left hand side like Britain that colonized her. To have a successful self drive in Uganda, these rules should be maintained to their limit. Rules like do not drive under the influence of alcohol, do not over speed, do not over load, do not drive while on phone should be practiced on the high ways. Besides that, your self drive safari will be a disgrace in Uganda because of not following the rules of the road. Common sense while on the road should also be applied like helping other drivers who need help in case of a mechanic default.
Keep some money in your pocket
Though you have planned your self drive journey in Uganda, you should maintain a minimum balance in your pocket to help and buy whatever you had not planned in the budget. Don’t lean by your shopping card because they may not apply in Uganda since the major super markets are in mostly found in the urban centers and some scarce shops off the roads in Uganda. Not only for the surplus will be used for shopping, also parking fees and fuel costs in Uganda since these car rental agencies do not give full tank for hiring their cars in Uganda.
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Top Backpacker Hostels in Kampala
Kampala is a capital city of Uganda the Pearl of Africa, a land full of adventures, beautiful weather, wildlife and some of the most unique primate species, no wonder people flock from across the world to get the life time primate searching experience in the forest jungle forests. Even for travelers who have booked safaris, you will definitely need lodging facilities in Kampala before or after your trip. Here are some of the top backpackers Hostels in Kampala that you can try out and enjoy every moment of your stay in Uganda. It may be a long or short stay depending on your travel arrangement but be sure of affordability rates.
Fat Cat Backpackers Kampala
Staying at fat cats backpackers make you feel the real world of Uganda unlike what you read in magazines and brocures.There is nothing as wonderful like waking up in the city centre of Kampala surrounded by great views and fresh air. Fat cats provide guests with private and shared rooms all with private toilets convenient for friends, couples and family. Besides they focus most on guests interests for example when you want a dorm in a single sex room, it’s just a matter of informing the staff at the time of booking and find it all fixed. The beds are wide with comfortable mattresses and soft pillows giving a restful relaxing night all through. If you are the partying type, them look no further than the magnificent Kisementi Mall just outside the hostel with lots of fun places, restaurants, café’s , bars and shopping centre. Fat cats also offers more than what you can imagine, free wifi, multiple balconies or lounges , green garden, and massive roof terrace which might just be the best place in the city for a sundowner.
Backpackers Hostel
Do you long for a hostel close to the city centre and that accessed by both public and private means of transport and wake up in the natural surrounding?.Backpackers hostel is simply the best found in 2 kilo meter distance from the city centre and accessed by both private and public means of transport. The hostel has all you need for a comfortable stay , gardens, bar area, internet Café, chilling veranda, private rooms and dormitories in single and double arrangements for those who want to explore a private life at affordable rates. The surrounding is clean, well maintained with basic cooking facilities and camp refrigerators. Besides Backpackers hostel is very convenient for all kinds of travelers including those on Uganda gorilla tracking safaris, wildlife, volunteerism, charity and much more.
Grand Global Hotel
The latest addition which is very near to the capital is convenient for nightlife. You can visit them in Makerere hill just bellow Makerere University, 10 minutes drives from Kampala city centre off sir Apollo Kagwa road. Grand Global hotel serves all budgets including backpackers plus moderate spenders on business and travel holidays. Their rooms are private with inside bathrooms all can be occupied for brief and long stays. The rooms are cozy offering cool ambiance compared to other backpacker hostel alternatives. Free Wifi and DSTV is another service you will find here. They offer contemporary rooms that are clean and smartly decorated with beautiful photography, wooden beds plus flat-screen televisions. The restaurant and bar is welcoming with a number of meals and drinks served depending on your stay arrangement either full board or Bed & Breakfast. Other hostels in Kampala to check out include, Kampala youth hostel, Ewaka guest house, Red chilly,Icu guest house, premier inn, Kampala city Annex, Amponye etc.
Read More14 Tourist Activities to Do in Kampala
Looking to exploring Kampala, the capital of Uganda? There are lots of interesting things to do in the city of hills. From leisurely activities to interesting cultural tours, there are amazing activities that you can engage in while in Kampala. Here are 14 things to do in the city;
Go Shopping
Kampala is an exciting city for shoppers as everything you may need is readily available. Most shopping in Kampala is concentrated in shopping malls and up market large chain supermarkets and shopping centres. Beautiful views, good restaurants, malls like Village mall, Oasis mall, Acacia, Garden City for shopping are found in Kampala. Then go street shopping in Kikubo, Gazaland, Galilaaya for new stuff, Super markets like Aponye, Freedom city, Nakumatt, Tuskys, Shoprite. Places like Lugogo, Nakumatt, Garden city, make someone feel and atmosphere of typical western shopping malls, with a mix of supermarkets, luxury goods and fast food outlets. If you want luxury goods, especially European and American brands, then the following malls are probably your best bet if you like to do all you’re shopping in one place.
Craft Markets
While Uganda may not be known within Africa for its crafts, there are good markets where you buy souvenirs after taking a Uganda Safari. There are local souvenirs as well as those imported from Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo. There are various craft markers within Kampala to find craft markets that offer good options for souvenirs. The largest craft market is on Buganda Road, Central Kampala and is open 7 days a week. Be careful to shop around and haggle before buying anything. Cheaper and often better, however, is the Jukali handicraft village commonly known as the ‘Friday craft market’ up in Nsambya, off Gabba rd. It operates to some extent every day but as you can guess from the name only really comes into full force on Fridays. It has a good selection of artwork, jewelry, wooden and stone sculptures as well as a small amount of fabrics.
Visit the Bahai Temple
There are thousands of people in Uganda that practice the Bahai faith and there are only seven Bahai temples in the world. One of these temples is located on the outskirts of Kampala, on top of one of Kampala hills. You can walk through the beautiful gardens or get a short tour and information about the Bahai faith and other related information. It’s a very peaceful and serene environment with great views. Just pay a visit as long as you are in Kampala.
Saint Paul’s Cathedral Namirembe
The Saint Paul’s Cathedral Namirembe is another place of worship with a great view of the city of Kampala. Being the oldest cathedral in the city, Namirembe Cathedral is the regional cathedral of the Church of Uganda. The current building, which was constructed using bricks, is the fifth to be built, as previous structures were ruined. It is almost 100 years old and is held to be one of the most noteworthy places of worship in Africa.
Kasubi Tombs
There is much history to be explored in Kampala. Kampala is a part of the Buganda Kingdom which is currently ruled by Kabaka Ronald Mutebi II. With the four Kabakas buried at the same site, the Kasubi Tombs became to be known as an important Shrine in Buganda’s history. Each prince and princess who is a descendant to any of these four Kings is buried at Kasubi behind the main shrine. More so, the site has also become culturally important as the cemetery of the royalty of the Buganda Kingdom.
Rubaga Cathedral (Saint Mary’s Cathedral)
There are many cathedrals and other places of worship in Kampala, and at least one is always included in visitors’ itinerary of things to do in Kampala. Rubaga Cathedral is located on one of Kampala’s original hills, Lubaga. It’s the base of the Catholic Church in Uganda. The Cathedral was built in the early 20th century, on land donated by the King of Buganda to missionaries and a Bishop. The views from the cathedral are amazing; the cathedral’s exterior and the building itself are very grand and well built. There’s also a statue of St. Mary in the front and a memorial to the first African Catholic bishop in Uganda.
Uganda National Mosque (the Gaddafi Mosque)
This mosque provides one of the best views of Kampala and is located on top of Kampala Hill. The building is huge and beautifully constructed with a winding staircase that brings you to the top of the prayer tower. It’s the biggest mosque in Kampala, accommodating up to 35,000 people in its main seating area, gallery and terrace. Visitors are allowed to tour and photograph the building. Colonel Muammar Gaddafi contracted to have it built and then gifted it to Uganda for use by the Muslims. The mosque was originally named after Gaddafi but was changed to Uganda National Mosque after his death.
Makerere University
The first university in Kampala and also in Britain’s East African colonies, Makerere is still the most highly regarded. The university boasts interesting architecture and wide-ranging gardens. Alumni include prime ministers and well known intellectuals. Nobel Prize-winning author V.S. Naipaul spent time here as a writer-in-residence, and American travel writer and novelist Paul Theroux once taught from the University.
Mengo Palace
Built in 1922, the palace is the former home of the king of Buganda although it has remained empty since 1966 when Prime Minister Milton Obote ordered an attack to remove Kabaka Mutesa II, the then president. The Kabaka’s Palace sits on Mengo Hill. It’s also called the haunted mansion, because so many were killed on the grounds in Idi Amin’s torture chambers. The palace is mostly uninhabited and being repaired, so it’s inaccessible to tourists, but guided tours of the prison chambers are available.
Owino Market
Owino Market is a chaotic, yet organized marketplace where you can find unique souvenirs, beautiful African print fabrics and any other thing you can think about. There are all types of second hand clothing and shoes in very good condition and tailors abound for any alterations you may need. You can also sample the local cuisine as you wait your clothes from tailors.
The market sells nearly anything you can think of, but the best buys for foreigners are on the African print fabrics sold here by length, and the wide range of second-hand clothes and shoes, including many designer labels. There is also quite an interesting Voodoo market, selling all sorts of wonderful things if you can manage to negotiate the maze and find it! As always make sure to haggle and keep your personal belongings close and don’t wear any obvious jewelry or big handbags.
Visit the Kabaka’s Lake
The Kabaka’s lake is located in Ndeeba along Rubaga road a few kilometers from kampala the city centre. It is neighbored by Rubaga Miracle Center and St Lawrence University. It is one of Uganda’s and Africa’s longest-surviving man-made lakes. The lake occupies an area of 2 km2 and estimated 200feet deep.
Apart from the unique history and tradition that is attached to this lake, it also attracts people as they go to relax there. It is also a home to different bird species. The lake can easily be accessed from the city center. Taxis are available in both old and new taxi park that can drop you to either Ndeba or along Rubaga Road.
Read MoreTraveling by Car in Uganda- Pros & Cons
Whereas most travelers prefer traveling by car, this means of transportation equally has advantages and disadvantages. At the end of day, you have to sit down and weigh the options and get best choice that meets your interest. Travelers who may not wish to travel using public transportation means and prefer traveling privately need to be keen. We have tried to list a number of pros and cons of traveling by car which we feel can be of great help to you while on safari in Uganda.
The pros of traveling by car in Uganda
There is flexibility
There is nothing more enjoyable than traveling by car that allows you to do things at your own pace. This is one of the most incredible pros that you shouldn’t ignore. When it comes to making a stopover, you can do it at your own time and above all there is total freedom to be enjoyed while on Uganda’s remotest routes to the magnificent national parks. And given the fact there is no luggage restriction; a visitor simply takes almost the whole house to the destination of their choice though not true but at least you are able to pack what is enough that you feel can help you while on safari. Besides, you love pets; this is the best way to transverse in Uganda. Pets at times allowed on planes or even trains though at times they tend to stress, you can have fun with them while on trip in Uganda.
Reliability
Each and every traveler needs a car that is reliable. Public transportation means have for long been famous for delaying and even cancel the trips and this is kinder disruptive for any one who has limited time to spend in Uganda. You do not need to get stranded on the way, rent a car in Uganda with our reliable car rental company and you will be assured of achieving your dreams in Uganda.
Amazing views
A trip without spectacular views is equivalent to staying at home. While in the destination like Uganda, the main aim of travel is for you to catch a glimpse of what brought you and which is why traveling by car is the best way to go. A land cruiser or a safari van with a pop up is amazingly one of the best options for you. While you are in the plane, you won’t catch all that you expected but with the car there is more room to catch a glimpse of several attractions.
Saves money
When it comes to travel, there is no one who wants to go back with no money in the pocket. Using a car for your road trip in Uganda is the best way for you to remain with something in the pockets for buying at least something along the way. Imagine you are with the rest of your friends and you have reached a specific place and they are all buying stuff and you keep watching. And in case you hire a car with luxurious room, there is no need to book a room for the night, you can simply use it and make things easier for you.
The cons of traveling by car in Uganda
Long distances
Most safaris in Uganda like any other destination take longer time to reach where you intend to view attractions. You real spend hours while on the road and still the place doesn’t want to be reached. An example is traveling from Kampala to Kidepo Valley National Park for its exceptional wildlife or Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for mountain gorilla trekking. You will spend nearly the whole day while on the road. But things can be simpler when you rented a four by four safari car that can help you to transverse through all the road conditions in Uganda.
Bad weather conditions
Like any destination, some weather conditions are unavoidable. This can be disadvantageous to you especially where the state of roads is not up to date. When it rains the whole situation becomes disgusting for life. With our four by four safari cars, you can easily transverse through these muddy and slippery roads to the national parks. There is need for you consider weather conditions prior traveling to any destination in Uganda to avoid any disappointments while on the way.
Hidden charges
Another disadvantage is when you are told about other extra charges after you have reached the destination to pick the car to take your safari or you incur additional costs because of mechanical conditions. Before hiring a car, take your time and check everything to avoid getting disappointed while on long trip. You should also consider investing in a few essentials while planning to go on road trip for long haul. As well, do not leave out the small gadgets such as phone or cup holder, GPS and sun visor. This will reduce lots of other costs that you may incur while on car hire agency in Uganda.
In conclusion, traveling in Uganda by car has both advantages and disadvantages. Before setting off for your trip in Uganda, you need to first weigh both of them so as to come up with the best option and also not to be disappointed while on your road trip.
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