Kampala City
Kampala City: The capital of Uganda, Kampala City, is one of Africa’s fastest-growing cities and has drawn a sizable number of tourists who come to take in the beautiful scenery.
The Republic of Uganda‘s capital and largest city is situated in the center of the country. With views of more than seven hills—Mengo, Kololo, Nakasero, Namirembe, Old Kampala, Rubaga, and Makerere—the city is situated in the Wakiso district subdistrict. Additionally, the city is divided into the following divisions: Kawempe, Makindye, Nakawa, Kampala Central, and Rubaga.
The history of Kampala is founded on the area’s geolocation, which dates back to the British colonial overlords who first came to the Buganda Kingdom under the reign of Mutesa I. The Impala, a ridged-horned African antelope, occupied the region at the time. When the colonialists arrived, they gave the region the name “hill of Impala.” Later on, this evolved into the occupied Old Kampala, which eventually became Kampala, the Ugandan capital.
The city sits 1,190 meters (3,900 feet) above sea level and covers 68 square miles of land and 5 square miles of water. In the south, it shares a boundary with Lake Victoria, one of the biggest freshwater lakes on Earth. With an annual growth rate of 4.03 percent, Kampala is one of the fifteen fastest-growing cities in the world. It serves 1,650,800 people who reside in the city and work there on a regular basis. The city’s buildings transition from Asian architectural styles to more contemporary or fresh construction.
The political leadership and authorities that oversee the city’s everyday operations and routines are in charge. With permanent succession, the Kampala City Council Authority is a corporate entity. Subject to administrative divisions, it manages the capital city on behalf of the national government. The Kampala City Council’s ministries and those in charge of metropolitan issues are part of the political leadership.
Important Kampala Attractions
Lake Victoria: One of the most striking sights one behold when arriving in Kampala is the freshwater lake that borders the city to the south. It is the second largest lake in the world and one of the great lakes of Africa. Often referred to as Lake Nyanza, it is encircled by numerous tourist destinations, including fishing landing spots along its borders. Another city attraction is the River Nile, which originates there.
The oldest cathedral in Uganda is Saints Paul’s Cathedral Namirembe, which was constructed in 1890 by church missionaries and serves as both the diocese cathedral of Namirembe diocese and the provincial cathedral of the Church of Uganda. It is situated atop Namirembe Hill, one of Kampala’s hills. The cathedral’s architectural beauty is a must-see when visiting the city, and the peaceful setting is ideal for gatherings with friends and having a picnic.
The Uganda Museum is a location that houses Uganda’s cultural legacy and offers a preview of its ethnological and natural-historical exhibits. It is situated along Kira Road, on plots 5 and 4 kilometers from Kampala City. It serves as a reminder of the nation’s rich history. The museum is open to everyone interested in learning more about Uganda‘s history. The location is available to everyone during business hours and is an excellent venue to have parties in its backyard.
The largest mosque in Uganda is the Uganda National Mosque, which was constructed and finished in 2006 by the Libyan government, led by the late President Muammar Gadhaffi. He gave this as a present to the Muslim community in Uganda. The mosque, which can hold 25,000 worshippers, is situated on Old Kampala Hill. The building is so large that from its highest towers, visitors can get a 360-degree panorama of the Kampala hills.
The Bahai Temple is a magnificent work of art situated on Kikaya Hill, approximately 4 kilometers from Kampala city. One of the biggest Bahai temples in Africa is dedicated to the Bahai religion. This eye-catching building can accommodate over 600 people and has an 84-foot diameter. The location is very serene, ideal for picnics, and has a picturesque view thanks to the flowers. Anyone looking for a terrific experience in a peaceful setting is welcome to visit.
Bulange and Lubiri, the craft markets, the Uganda Martyrs Shrine, and the Rubaga Cathedral are further destinations in Kampala.
Activities conducted in Kampala
The Boda Boda, a motorbike taxi, is the most convenient way to go around Kampala, where a lot of activities take place. From uptown to downtown, these machines can take you anywhere at any time.
The new and old taxi lots: When you first arrive in the city, the ancient and modern taxi parks greet you. These are situated in the city’s downtown and can accommodate over 500 taxis that run across Uganda‘s transportation system, namely in Kampala.
You are welcomed by the many arcades, complexes, and plazas that have opened and others that are still being built. Anything you want to buy can be found in these buildings, starting with the clothing, food, and electronics that are widely available in Kampala. We have you covered with the nearby malls on the uptown side, such as Garden City, Victoria Mall, and Acacia Mall along Acacia Avenue.
The Uganda National Cultural Centre, also called the National Theatre, hosts a variety of fantastic live performances of dance, theater, and music in its auditorium.
Additional locations for an unparalleled experience include the Ndere Troupe in Ntinda, Owino market, and Wandegeya market.
Accommodations
Both locals and various tourists visiting Kampala can make use of the many lodging options available.
The Sheraton Kampala Hotel is a classy hotel located in the heart of Kampala, about a 15-minute walk from the city’s Nakasero market. This four-star hotel offers chic accommodations, free WiFi, and eating options include an English pub and Tandoori grill. A tennis court, an outdoor pool, and a gym are also available. There is a paid 24-hour airport shuttle available.
One of the nearest locations in Kampala is the Kampala Serena Hotel, which offers a variety of amenities like a restaurant and outdoor space, free WiFi, and a calm and pleasant atmosphere. Baggage storage, a tour desk, and a fitness center are additional amenities. Security is assured, and the rooms are opulent.
The Hilton Garden Inn Kampala offers lodging along with a restaurant, a bar, and free private parking. The facility offers free WiFi throughout, an outdoor pool, and views of the city.
Mestil Hotel and Residences: The hotel has a restaurant, a fitness center, an outdoor pool, and free private parking. The four-star hotel offers guests access to a garden and a bar, and each room has a view of the garden. It offers room service, currency exchange, and a front desk staffed around-the-clock.
Additionally, there are several hotels that allow pets, such as Perl Cottages, Amari Comfort Homes, and Izera Serviced Suites.
As a starting point for their Ugandan tours to several national parks, such as Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kidepo National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, and other tour sites, travelers can spend the night at these hotels.
The ideal time to travel to Kampala
For the greatest weather, Kampala is best visited in May through August or December through January. January, July, and August have the fewest possibilities of rainfall and the lowest humidity in the region, while May has the highest humidity and the most chances of rain.