Entebbe

Introducing Entebbe

Entebbe is a lakeside city in southern Uganda. It sits on a peninsula on the northwest shore of Lake Victoria, 35 kilometers north of Kampala, accessible by road. It sits at an altitude of 1,180 meters and has a population of 21,000. Founded in 1893, it served as a British colonial stronghold from 1905 to 1962. Because it houses Uganda's only international airport, it is known as "Uganda's gateway to the world."

As a typical lakeside city, Entebbe is a famous tourist destination in Uganda, with charming scenery and a large number of foreign tourists visiting every year. Tourism revenue has become a major source of income for the city. Before Uganda's independence in 1962, Entebbe was the capital of Uganda.

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Most Popular FAQs for Entebbe

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Entebbe is a historic city located on the shores of Lake Victoria, Uganda. It was the former capital of Uganda and remains an important administrative and transportation hub. Entebbe is home to Uganda’s international airport and has a significant place in Uganda's colonial and post-colonial history, including the famous 1976 hijacking rescue mission at Entebbe International Airport.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Entebbe is located approximately 37 kilometers south of Kampala, Uganda’s capital. The easiest way to reach Entebbe is by taxi or private car from Kampala. Public buses are also available, and Entebbe can be reached by walking from nearby local areas, though it is quite spread out.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions in Entebbe are open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the dry season (from June to September), as the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities such as safaris, lake tours, and botanical garden visits.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entry fees vary by attraction. For example, the Uganda Wildlife Education Center (UWEC) charges around $10 for foreign visitors, while the Entebbe Botanical Gardens may charge a small entry fee of around $3. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through local tour operators for guided visits.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is not typically necessary for most attractions in Entebbe, although it’s recommended to book for guided tours or during peak tourist seasons to ensure availability. A day or two in advance is usually sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

For a relaxed visit, you should allocate about 2-3 hours for the Uganda Wildlife Education Center, 1-2 hours for the Botanical Gardens, and 1-2 hours for the lake tour. Overall, a full day in Entebbe should allow you to visit the major attractions comfortably.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Uganda Wildlife Education Center (UWEC) for wildlife enthusiasts.
• The Entebbe Botanical Gardens for nature lovers and bird watchers.
• The scenic shores of Lake Victoria for boat tours and peaceful walks.
• The historical Entebbe Old Airport site, known for the 1976 hijacking rescue operation.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at major attractions like the Uganda Wildlife Education Center and the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. Tours are typically available in English, with some guides offering services in other languages depending on demand.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The view of Lake Victoria from the Uganda Wildlife Education Center.
• Birdwatching opportunities at the Entebbe Botanical Gardens.
• The scenic lakeside viewpoints along Entebbe Road.
• The historical Entebbe Old Airport offers a unique photographic perspective of Uganda’s aviation history.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a visit to the Uganda Wildlife Education Center to see the native wildlife, followed by a stroll through the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. Afterward, take a relaxing boat trip on Lake Victoria. Finish the day with a visit to the historic Entebbe Old Airport and nearby attractions.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not common in Entebbe, as most attractions close in the evening. However, some hotels may offer evening entertainment, and private night-time boat tours may be arranged on Lake Victoria.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Entebbe is generally not as crowded as Kampala or other major tourist destinations in Uganda. Weekdays, especially in the morning, are less crowded, while weekends and public holidays can attract more local visitors.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most tourist attractions have basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and rest areas. The Uganda Wildlife Education Center has a café, while larger hotels in Entebbe provide full-service dining. You can also find shops and markets near the airport and along the main road.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Entebbe's main attractions are generally accessible to elderly visitors and children. However, some areas may have uneven terrain or require walking on natural trails. The Uganda Wildlife Education Center and Botanical Gardens are mostly wheelchair accessible, though some areas may still be challenging for visitors with limited mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in Entebbe, particularly for small purchases and entry fees at local attractions. Mobile payments such as MTN Mobile Money and Airtel are widely accepted, and credit cards may be accepted at larger hotels and restaurants in the area.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby restaurants include The Faze 3 Restaurant, Café Javas, and The Boma Entebbe, offering a range of international and local cuisine. The Uganda Wildlife Education Center also has a small café offering light meals.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at most restaurants in Entebbe. Halal food is also available in the area, particularly near the airport and local markets where diverse eateries cater to various dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Boma Entebbe, a popular mid-range hotel with excellent service.
• Protea Hotel Entebbe, located near the airport with comfortable facilities.
• Gorilla African Guesthouse, a budget-friendly option near Lake Victoria.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, accessible by boat from Entebbe.
• The Ssese Islands, an archipelago on Lake Victoria known for its beaches and nature.
• The Mabamba Wetland, famous for birdwatching, including the rare shoebill stork.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, you can find souvenir shops selling traditional Ugandan crafts, including beads, baskets, wooden carvings, and fabrics. These items are available at markets near the airport or tourist sites.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From Entebbe, you can easily continue your trip by taxi, private car, or public transport to Kampala or other parts of Uganda. For longer distances, flights are available from Entebbe International Airport to various destinations across East Africa.