#Travulous names their best in Entebbe and Kampala

The Best of Entebbe and Kampala

Where to Stay and What to do?

There aren’t many countries on the African continent that can match Uganda for sheer beauty and diversity. Home to approximately half the world’s population of mountain gorillas, there are a great selection of activities for visitors to enjoy, from rafting the rapids of the Nile and going in search of Kibale’s elusive chimpanzees, to cruising the Kazinga channel in search of hippos and elephants, and admiring the abundant wildlife and spectacular falls in Murchison Falls National Park.

As most visitors to Uganda will spend either a pre or post safari stop-over in Entebbe or Kampala, we have compiled in this month’s newsletter an overview of both cities, including the best places to stay, a list of popular activities for visitors to enjoy, and a description of their respective histories.

Located in the Lake Victoria hinterland and situated approximately 35 kilometres apart from each other, Kampala is Uganda’s capital and the country’s economic and social hub, whereas Entebbe, which is located on the shores of Africa’s largest lake and is home to Uganda’s only international airport, provides fly-in visitors with a pleasant introduction to the country.

Talk to us if you would like to find out more about either city, including the possibility of adding any one of our suggested accommodation suggestions into your next Ugandan safari itinerary.

HOW DO THEY COMPARE?

Kampala

Overview

Kampala is located in the southern part of Uganda, north of Lake Victoria. Built on a series of hills, Kampala is Uganda’s largest city and current capital. The majority of Uganda’s companies are headquartered in Kampala, with the city’s main exports consisting of sugar, tobacco, tea, coffee, and cotton.

History

For several years, Kampala was the political centre of the Buganda Kingdom. In 1890, Captain Lugard of the British East Africa Company set up camp on Kampala Hill. The arrival of the railway line connection from Mombasa in 1901 became the catalyst to Kampala transforming itself into Uganda’s trading centre.

Activities

Kampala is a bustling city, offering its visitors a good choice of restaurants, bars, cafés, shopping centres and activities. Kampala highlights include the Uganda Museum, National Theatre, Nakasero & Saint Balikuddembe markets, and the hills of Kampala with their churches, mosques and international hotels.

Entebbe

Overview

Entebbe, with its relaxed ambience and pace of life, is a charming city situated about 35 kilometres from Kampala on the shores of Lake Victoria in southern Uganda. At an elevation of 1,146 metres (3,760 feet) above sea level, Entebbe benefits from a consistent moderate summer climate.

History

Uganda’s capital was moved from Kampala to Entebbe in 1905. This lasted until 1962, when Kampala regained its status after Uganda became independent from the UK. Today, Entebbe is home to the only international airport in the country, and to the official residence of President Museveni.

Activities

Entebbe provides its visitors with a good selection of activities, including a visit to the Wildlife Education Centre, Entebbe Botanical Gardens, Lake Victoria, Entebbe Golf Club, Ngamba Island and Mabamba Swamp. There are also a good selection of restaurants, bars, cafés and shops to chose from.

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