Hostels in KAMPALA, UGANDA

Celebrating Life in Kampala, Uganda

Kampala is the capital of Uganda and its largest city. The city is planned into 5 boroughs for ease of governance. It is Uganda’s most important centre related to transport and economic activities. Kampala commands good infrastructure making it a good commercial centre. The city experiences a tropical type wet and dry climate. The city is colder as compared to other parts of Uganda and experiences 2 spells of rainy seasons.

Accommodation Options
There is something about Kampala that most people feel at home very easily. It has accommodations suiting every pocket from budget hotels to 5 star hotels. Rest houses, youth hostels and guesthouses are readily available here. Most places are connected via internet and mobile networks. Many private tour operators are available who help tourists through transport and accommodations here.

History
The king of Buganga, Mutesa 1 developed this area as a hunting ground. The earlier area had hills and abundant wetlands. The city was known as the place of seven hills earlier. Entebbe was Uganda’s capital earlier and Kampala replaced it in 1962.

Popular Places
Uganda Museum and Ugandan National Theatre here attract a whole lot of visitors. Mosque at old Kampala is known for its architecture and frequented by the faithful. Kampala houses one of the 7 Bahá'í Houses of Worship known as the mother temple of Africa.  People who come to experience the Ugandan safaris mostly take a halt in Kampala.  The densely populated city is known for its greenery with people calling it the pearl of Africa. Garden City is a popular shopping centre which has a bowling alley and a movie theatre. Kampala Rd, Bombo Road, & Jinja Road are popular streets where visitors will find everything from eateries to gift shops.

Getting Around
City bus is the safest option of travelling here. Local motorcycles called boda bodas are popular with local people. Main airport for Kampala is the Entebbe International Airport situated just 35 miles from the city. Air Uganda has its headquarters in Kampala. Local guides who can double up as chauffeurs are recommended. Minibus taxis are also available.

Places of Entertainment
The city hosts many restaurants offering various cuisines like Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Thai, and European apart from the traditional Ugandan food. Most tourists shop for souvenirs and other African products. Concerts (with traditional instruments) in both Luganda and English languages attract many local and foreign visitors. Pubs, bars and lounges create exciting night life in Kampala. Weekend parties are fun and well attended by visitors. Casinos and nightclubs offer exciting entertainment options.

Languages Spoken
English is a popular language here at tourist locations in Kampala. Swahili, Luganda, other Ugandan dialects along with languages of Asian immigrants are also spoken here.

Currency
Ugandan Shilling is the official currency used here. It is further divided into cents like one Shilling equals to 100 cents. ATMs are safe, but it is better to get your currency converted at the airport or any of the several banks in Kampala. Visitors can keep an eye on the news and updates of currency conversions through internet.