Kampala

Kampala is the capital and biggest city of Uganda with an estimated population of about 1680000 people. About 5 political divisions make up Kampala capital city including Makindye, Kawempe, Rubaga, Nakawa, and Kampala central divisions. It is Africa’s 13^th fastest growing city.

Kampala is surrounded by other towns including Luweero, Mpigi, Mukono, Buikwe, Jinja and Entebbe. It is popular as a city of 7 (seven) hills (Mengo, Makerere, Mulago, Nakasero, Rubaga and Kibuli. but currently, it covers several hills. Kampala derives its name from word “impala.” The present Kampala was home to countless impalas, but due to the growing city they got displaced.

The 3 of the hills in Kampala are subdivided into 4 religions. Mengo is for Anglicans, Kibuli & old Kampala are dominated by Muslims, Rubaga for catholic. Nakasero hill is where most public administration and residences are found.

Why visit Kampala in Uganda?

Kampala isn’t only a commercial hub but also an incredible tourism destination. It has a long list of well-established hotels including Protea Hotel in Kololo, Kampala Serena Hotel, Sheraton Kampala Hotel, Pearl of Africa and more.

Plenty of tourist attractions/sites –cultural and historical sites including the Uganda National Museum, National Mosque (Gadhafi Mosque)- where you can enjoy aerial views of the city. Other tourist sites include the Baha’i temple, Makerere University a learning center and also the best spot to find interesting bird species.

Visit Uganda Martyrs shrine basilica in Namugongo, Kabaka’s Lake, Kings Palace, Kasubi tomb site, Namirembe cathedral, Buganda craft village,

Vegetation cover- Kampala is comprised of numerous habitats including wetlands and hills. The swamps & wetlands in Kampala include Kansanga, Lubigi, Nakivubo, Kinawataka and Kyetinda swamp.

Geology and climate

Kampala is found on the East African plateau. It is lying at the 2 arms of the East African rift and on the Northern limits of Tanzania. Kampala experiences tropical climatic conditions with record of 2 seasons: dry and wet season. However, there is no true dry spell in Kampala. The heaviest precipitation is experienced starting from August to December, February to June.

Cultural institutions

The main cultural institutions include Ugandan National Theatre and Uganda Museum. Ndere cultural centre –located in Kisasi, Kampala, is the best area to enjoy cultural entertainment. At Ndere, you can be entertained by different cultures, dances and music performances.

How to reach Kampala

From Entebbe city/airport to Kampala is 45 minutes’ drive and from Jinja city, you will drive for about 80 km.