Kampala City Tour - Full Day (Private)
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Kampala City Tour - Full Day (Private)

Active
(2 reviews)
9h - 10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This full-day Kampala tour offers a rich dive into Uganda’s history, culture, and spirituality, beginning in the CBD with landmarks like the Independence Monument, Nakasero Market, and the Cultural Centre. Explore the Buganda Kingdom at the Kabaka’s Palace, Royal Mile, and historic monuments, then enjoy panoramic city views from the Gadhafi Mosque. Visit the UNESCO-listed Kasubi Tombs to connect with royal heritage, drive through Makerere University, and wander the bustling Kalerwe Market. Pause for reflection at the serene Baha’i Temple and explore the Uganda National Museum, before concluding at the Uganda Martyrs’ Shrine for a moving spiritual and historical experience.

Available options

Kampala City Tour - Full Day (Private)

Pickup included

What's included

Local lunch and mineral water on tour
An English-speaking driver-guide
Entrance fees at selected stopovers
Shared transport in a 4WD Minibus

Detailed itinerary

1

The tour begins with uptown Kampala Sights:
Explore key landmarks of Uptown Kampala, including the Independence Monument, Mutesa II Monument, World War II Monument, Parliamentary Building, Bank of Uganda (est. 1966), Uganda National Cultural Centre (est. 1959), and Kampala Capital City Authority headquarters.
Visit Nakasero Market, established in 1895 and relocated to its current city center location in 1905. Along the way, admire Hindu temples, including Shree Swaminarayan Mandir, and other culturally significant sites.

2
Stop 2

Buganda Kingdom Tour.
From Kampala’s CBD, continue to the Buganda Kingdom and visit the Kabaka’s (King’s) Palace. Explore the Idi Amin Armory, view historical machine guns, and browse the palace pictorial while learning about Buganda’s rich history. Drive past Kabaka’s Lake and visit the Nantawetwa Monument, a site opened only when the King travels from the palace to the Buganda Parliament. Continue along the Royal Mile, sightseeing landmarks such as Bulange (Buganda Parliament), the Kabaka’s Monument, Zakaria Kisingiri House, and the Buganda Clan Symbols.

3
Stop 3

Gadhafi Mosque and City Views.
As you continue through 1980s-era Kampala, stop at the Gadhafi Mosque, a gift from the late Col. Muammar Gadhafi.
Climb the minaret for a breathtaking 360-degree view of Kampala’s famous seven hills, taking in landmarks such as Fort Lugard (est. 1800 by Capt. Frederick Lugard) and Old Kampala Senior Secondary School, where Rwanda’s President Kagame once studied.

4
Stop 4

Visit Kasubi Tombs (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Next, visit the Kasubi Tombs, a revered spiritual and cultural site for the Baganda. The tombs serve as the burial ground for the last four Kabakas (Kings) of Buganda and remain a Centre for the royal family. Traditional rituals and cultural practices are still observed here, preserving Buganda’s rich heritage through generations.

5

Makerere University Sightseeing.
From Kasubi, drive through Makerere University, Uganda’s largest and oldest academic institution (est. 1922) and Africa’s third oldest university. Explore landmarks such as the Old University Library (est. 1949), the Main Administration Building (since 1941), and the Education Monument.

6

Kalerwe Market and the Baha’i Temple.
On your way to the Baha’i Temple, pass through Kalerwe Market, Kampala’s vibrant second-largest local market, perfect for snapping photos or picking up fresh fruits.

Continue to Kikaya Hill to visit the Baha’i Temple, a unique spiritual landmark in Africa. Take a moment for peaceful reflection inside the temple and wander through the lush gardens, capturing memorable photos.
Important Notice: The temple is closed on Mondays.

7
Stop 7

Tour the Uganda National Museum.
Visit the Uganda National Museum, East Africa’s first and oldest museum, established in 1908 and relocated to its current site in 1954. Explore its rich displays of Uganda’s history, culture, and heritage, a perfect highlight of your city tour. After a lunch break at a local restaurant, continue to the Martyrs’ Shrine, an important spiritual and historical site commemorating Uganda’s Christian martyrs.

Afterward, enjoy lunch at a restaurant, and continue to conclude your tour at the Martyrs Shrine.

8
Stop 8

Religious visit to the Uganda Martyrs’ Shrine.
Conclude your tour with a visit to the Uganda Martyrs’ Shrine, the sacred site where Christian martyrs were persecuted between 1885 and 1887 under Kabaka Mwanga II of Buganda. This revered location is a major pilgrimage destination, drawing hundreds of thousands every 3rd June.

Explore The Basilica, constructed over nine years from 1967 and consecrated on 7th February 1993 by the Pope. The shrine has also welcomed three papal visits: Pope Paul VI (1969), Pope John Paul II (1993), and Pope Francis (2015). Your visit includes the Martyrs Museum and the Holy Water Lake, offering a profound insight into Uganda’s spiritual and historical legacy.

Following an informative tour of the shrine; return to the hotel.

What's not included

Tips and gratuities
Expenses of a personal nature
Soft drinks and alcohol

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.5
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Kampala

Kampala, the capital and largest city of Uganda, is known for its vibrant culture, bustling markets, and lush surroundings. The city offers a mix of urban life and natural beauty, with numerous attractions and a rich history.

Top Attractions

Uganda Museum

The Uganda Museum offers a comprehensive look at the country's history, culture, and natural heritage. It houses a wide range of exhibits, including traditional artifacts, historical documents, and wildlife displays.

Historical 2-3 hours Free-Budget

Baha'i Temple

The Baha'i Temple, also known as the Mother Temple of Africa, is a stunning architectural landmark and a place of worship for the Baha'i faith. Its beautiful gardens and serene atmosphere make it a popular spot for visitors.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Kampala Botanical Gardens

The Kampala Botanical Gardens is a lush oasis in the heart of the city, featuring a wide variety of plant species, walking paths, and picnic areas. It's a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

Nature 1-2 hours Free-Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Matooke

A traditional dish made from mashed plantains, often served with meat or vegetables.

Main dish Vegetarian option available

Rolex

A popular street food consisting of a rolled chapati filled with eggs, vegetables, and sometimes meat.

Snack Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Luwombo

A traditional dish where meat or fish is steamed in banana leaves with vegetables and spices.

Main dish Vegetarian option available

Popular Activities

Hiking Boating Wildlife safaris Spa treatments Coffee shop visits Gardens Museum visits Historical tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August, December to February

These months offer the best weather with lower rainfall and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

18-26°C 64-79°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Luganda, Swahili
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Ugandan Shilling (UGX)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Kampala is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Exercise caution, especially at night and in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Avoid walking alone at night
  • • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air
  • Entebbe International Airport • 35 km from city center
By bus

Kampala Bus Terminal, New Park Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are affordable but can be crowded. Routes are numerous but may not be clearly marked.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, SafeBoda

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kololo Nakasero Kabalagala

Day trips

Lake Victoria
30 km from Kampala • Half day to full day

Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa and offers a variety of activities, including boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
180 km from Kampala • Full day

The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a conservation area where visitors can see rhinos and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Murchison Falls National Park
300 km from Kampala • Overnight

Murchison Falls National Park is known for its stunning waterfalls and diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and hippos.

Festivals

Uganda International Film Festival • November Kampala City Festival • July

Pro tips

  • Visit the Uganda Museum early in the morning to avoid crowds
  • Try local street food at Owino Market for an authentic experience
  • Explore the Baha'i Temple during the early morning for a peaceful and serene atmosphere
  • Use app-based taxis like Uber or SafeBoda for a safer and more convenient travel experience
  • Book accommodations and tours in advance during peak seasons to ensure availability
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 14-85
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 6
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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