Kampala City Tour -The City of Seven Hills

Kampala is Uganda’s Largest and capital city, nestled on the shores of Lake Victoria in central Uganda. It covers an area of about 8451 sq km and has a rapidly growing estimated population of about 6.8 million people. Back in time, Kampala was a reserved hunting ground for the Kabaka of Buganda, home to the largest population of Impalas known as the “Hill of Impalas.” Kampala consists of the largest and most powerful Buganda Kingdom, with a centralized governance and social structure system. Kampala is a dynamic and ever-evolving metropolis that seamlessly blends rich history, diverse culture, and Modern energy with a unique blend of traditional values and urban fair.

In this blog, we take you through the captivating Kampala city tour starting from the vibrant local markets, iconic landmarks, and historical sites that will guide you as you plan your safari to Uganda including the Kampala city tour that will create beautiful memories on your safari in Uganda.

What to see on Kampala City Tour | Kampala City Tour Attractions & Activities

Kabaka’s Palace: Located in the heart of Kampala at Mengo Hill overlooking the city of Kampala. Kabaka’s palace is the official residence of Kabaka of Buganda Kingdom. Kabaka’s Palace was constructed during the time of Kabaka Mutesa II between 1894 and 1901 as a royal residence and a symbol of power, heritage, and traditions of Buganda known as “Lubiri.”

Tourists on a Kampala city tour will have a chance to learn Buganda people’s traditions, customs, and clans. Take a short walk to Idi Amin’s Torture chamber many political opponents, suspected dissidents, and ordinary citizens were detained, tortured, and sometimes executed.

Kasubi Tombs: Kasubi Tombs was recognized as a world UNESCO site in 2001 and is situated on Kasubi Hill. Kasubi tombs are known as the burial grounds of the Buganda kings. The tombs are grass thatched in circular with traditional materials such as wood, reeds, and grass which reflects the religious and cultural beliefs of the Buganda kingdom.

Kasubi Tombs is also known as the Muzibu Azaala Mpanga which means the house of royal spirits. In the Buganda kingdom they believe the kings are not dead, but just resting thus referring to Kasubi as the Resting grounds for Kabakas.

Gaddafi National Mosque: Gaddafi National Mosque sits on one of the 7 hills of Kampala – Old Kampala Hill in the heart of Kampala. Gaddafi National Mosque is named after the late Libyan president Muammar Gaddafi who offered assistance in the construction of the Mosque in 2001 and was completed in 2008.

Gaddafi National Mosque is an iconic landmark that accommodates about 35,000 worshippers and is one of the Biggest Mosques in East Africa. Tourists on a Kampala City Tour visiting Gaddafi National Mosque are encouraged to dress modestly when visiting the mosque just like Muslims do by covering their shoulders and legs. Women are required to wear a headscarf.

Owino Market: also known as St. Balikudembe Market and one of the largest and busiest markets in Africa. The market is named after a religious martyr who was killed there during the regime of Kabaka Mwanga in Buganda Kingdom. Owino Market is a popular shopping ground for fresh produce, second-hand clothes, and unique crafts which portrays Uganda’s economy and Culture.

 Explore Uganda’s diverse culture crafts and local foods that offer an opportunity to interact with the local population thus creating beautiful unforgettable memories on your Uganda city tour experience.

Buganda Road Craft Village: Buganda Road Craft Village is located in the heart of Kampala offering arts and crafts to both local and international tourists. Most tourists to a Uganda safari usually buy souvenirs reflecting Uganda’s rich heritage and artistic traditions from this craft village as they conclude their itineraries.

Travelers who may wish to collect memories on their Uganda safaris can have beautiful handmade jewelry and unique textiles that will create everlasting memories.

Bahai Temple: located on Kawempe Hill and a house of worship for worshipers of Bahai Faith. The Bahai Temple is open to tourists of all faiths. Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and engage respectfully with the environment and the Bahai teachings.

Ndere Cultural Centre: Located in Kisasi -Kampala is Uganda’s premium cultural destination with a wide artistic venue for over 10,000 tourists and visitors seeking a cultural experience in Uganda. Ndere Cultural Centre is not just a tourist destination but also plays a great role in conserving Uganda’s culture through traditional dances, arts, and drama.

Namugongo Martyrs Shrine: Uganda’s popular and biggest religious site remembered for over 45 Ugandans who were brutally executed and burnt by the kabaka of Buganda on 3rd June in 1885 for their faith by Kabaka Mwanga.

These young men are regarded as Martyrs and canonized as saints by Pope Paul VI in 9164. Today, the Uganda Martyrs are commemorated on 3rd June every year by thousands of worshipers with a service of pilgrimage. 

Is Kampala Safe for Tourists?

Kampala is generally considered a safe tourist destination for visitors on Kampala City tours and Uganda safari with vibrant rich cultural experiences, historical sites beautiful buildings offering a wonderful experience. However, just like any other Urban center, tourists are advised to take some precautions regarding their health and safety when navigating through the streets in town.

Travel Tips for Safety Stay in Kampala

• Stay alert
• Avoid overcrowded places
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Stay in well recognized Hotels
• Respect local culture and customs.

Is Kampala worth visiting?

Definitely! Kampala is a must-visit destination on your Uganda safari offering a unique blend of rich culture, history, vibrant markets, and modern amenities, all set against a backdrop of scenic hills and views of Lake Victoria. Kampala city is absolutely worth visiting where visitors enjoy a wide range of cultural experiences starting from the unique local foods, and rich cultural heritage sites to arts and craft centers offering a memorable experience.

When is the best time to visit Kampala?

Kampala receives a tropical kind of climate characterized by mild temperatures throughout the year. Kampala city experiences 2 dry seasons running from December to February and June to August and 2 wet seasons from March to May and September to November. The best time to visit Kampala is all year round depending on your travel plans. However, the dry season is always regarded as the best time. As you plan your trip for the Kampala city tour and Uganda gorilla trekking safari, it is important to consider the weather when the roads are clear with favorable temperatures for your safari.

Accommodation in Kampala

Kampala city consists of a variety of accommodation facilities offering different budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels and boutique accommodations to more affordable guesthouses. On your Uganda safari, you will find plenty of accommodation choices such as;

Luxury accommodation in Kampala

• Kampala Serena Hotel
• Sheraton Kampala Hotel
• Pearl of Africa Hotel
• Mestil Hotel and Residences.

Midrange boutique accommodation in Kampala

• Kampala Boulevard suites
• Forest Cottages
• Hotel African

Budget-Friendly accommodation

• The Mackinnon Suites
• Emin Pasha Hotel
• Red Chili Hideaway
• Dolphine suites.

As you plan to embark on a Kampala city tour, you can also combine your tour with exploring the source of the Nile or Remarkable Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Wildlife safaris.