How to Find Hotels in Kampala, Uganda

Kampala is the capital of Uganda, a country on the rebound. Every year, more tourists arrive in what was once known as "the pearl of Africa." Here's how to book accommodations for your visit.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet connection
• Passport

Find Accommodations

1. Visit the Web site for the Uganda Tourist Board (see Resources below). You'll find links to tour operators as well as images of notable properties in Kampala and other areas.

2. Enjoy personalized lodging. Most accommodations are run by private owners and often are extensions of organizations, businesses or churches.

3. Save money with inexpensive options. Most accommodations cost less than budget hotels in the United States.

4. Book a Western-style room. Kampala does have international hotel chains that cater mainly to governmental entities and business travelers. Prepare to pay more for them, however.

5. Remember that the concept of luxury in Uganda is vastly different from European or Western standards. Luxury in Kampala means having a mosquito net around your bed, with carpeting (perhaps).

Get to Kampala

6. Bring U.S. dollars or euros with you. Arriving at Entebbe International Airport, you will need cash to process your visa.

7. Expect long visa lines at Entebbe.

Travel Around Kampala and Greater Uganda

8. Travel to Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa. Taxis are your best friend in Kampala, and you most likely will take them everywhere.

9. Hire a private car and guide driver when you travel outside Kampala. This is, of course, a more expensive option, but you will see much more. Guides can take you to exciting places you won't find in any travel folder.

Tips & Warnings

• The Uganda Tourist Board doesn't offer online booking on its Web site, nor does it list a designated booking phone number.
• Book your accommodations online through a tour operator's Web site for access to package deals.
• Kampala sits on the equator, so structure your trip around the rainy seasons, when the mosquitoes aren't as thick. August features light rain and is generally mild.
• Women in Uganda typically wear skirts that cover the knees--never pants. If you want to fit in, you might want to follow suit.
• Chances are your room will not have a lock unless you're staying in a high-end hotel.
• Many Kampala hotels require you to bring your own mosquito netting. This is a common practice in budget accommodations.
• Do not travel outside Kampala by night, especially without a guide.