How to Get to Entebbe

Entebbe is easily accessible via Entebbe International Airport, Uganda’s main international gateway. The airport is conveniently close to town, and it takes only ten to fifteen minutes to reach most hotels and popular attractions. This proximity makes Entebbe a favourite for short stays, overnight layovers and day tours.

A CLOSER LOOK AT ENTEBBE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Entebbe International Airport was officially opened in 1951 during the British colonial era, making it one of the oldest international airports in East Africa. Over the decades, it has undergone several upgrades and expansions to accommodate the growing number of visitors to Uganda.

Today, the airport operates flights to and from major destinations, including:

• Nairobi
• Kigali
• Addis Ababa
• Dar es Salaam
• Johannesburg
• Dubai
• Doha
• Istanbul
• Amsterdam
• Brussels
• London (seasonal or connecting operations depending on the airline)

Several international airlines operate through Entebbe, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, KLM, Turkish Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Rwanda Air and Uganda Airlines, which connects to key African routes and selected international destinations.

The airport continues to improve its facilities with new terminals, modern lounges and enhanced security, ensuring a smooth experience for travellers.

TOP ATTRACTIONS IN ENTEBBE

Entebbe Botanical Gardens

Established in 1898, the Entebbe Botanical Gardens are a tranquil paradise for nature lovers. Home to a wide variety of indigenous and exotic plant species, playful monkeys, colourful butterflies and countless birds, the gardens offer a peaceful retreat for walking, photography or guided nature tours.

The Tarzan Forest

One of the most interesting parts of the gardens is the woodland area believed to have been used as a filming location for the original Tarzan movie in the early twentieth century. This section, often called the Tarzan Forest, is characterised by towering trees draped in hanging vines, dense undergrowth and a wild, ancient atmosphere.

Walking through this part of the garden feels like stepping into a cinematic jungle scene. The combination of thick vegetation, mysterious pathways and natural soundscapes gives it a magical charm that visitors love.

Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC)

Formerly known as the Entebbe Zoo, UWEC is an educational sanctuary that offers close encounters with some of Uganda’s most iconic wildlife. It houses rescued and rehabilitated animals such as lions, chimpanzees, rhinos, leopards, giraffes and many more. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, behind the scenes experiences, keeper talks and the chance to feed giraffes.

Lake Victoria Sunset Cruises

Take a relaxing boat ride or sunset cruise on Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa. These cruises offer breath taking views, fresh lake breezes and excellent bird watching opportunities. They are perfect for couples, families or solo travellers looking to enjoy a peaceful evening on the water.

Mabamba Swamp for Shoebill Tracking

Located just forty five minutes from Entebbe, Mabamba Swamp is a globally recognised birding hotspot and one of the best places in Africa to see the rare Shoebill Stork. Canoe tours take visitors through the narrow channels of the swamp, offering opportunities to see over three hundred bird species.

BEST RESTAURANTS AND CAFES IN ENTEBBE

Entebbe has a growing food scene with a good mix of local and international options. Popular places include:

• Goretti’s Beachside Pizzeria for fresh grilled fish and pizzas
• 2 Friends Beach Restaurant for seafood dishes with lake views
• Café Javas for modern café dining
• Local street food stalls for a taste of the famous Rolex or fresh tilapia from the lake

WHERE TO STAY IN ENTEBBE

Entebbe caters to every type of traveller with a range of accommodation options:

Luxury

• Hotel number five
• Protea hotel by Marriott Entebbe
• Lake Victoria Serena golf resort and spa

Midrange

• Keba express hotel
• The Boma hotel Entebbe
• Best western premier garden hotel

Budget

• Airport guest house
• African roots guesthouse
• Entebbe backpackers

Many hotels offer airport transfers and scenic views of Lake Victoria, making the town ideal for both relaxation and adventure.

Shopping and Local Experiences

Explore Victoria Mall for shopping, dining and supermarkets. Visit craft markets for souvenirs such as jewellery, African fabrics and handmade carvings. Local markets offer fresh fruits, vibrant street snacks and an authentic taste of Ugandan culture.

Day Trips from Entebbe

• Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary: A boat ride away, home to over fifty rescued chimpanzees.
• Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: A great stopover on the way to Murchison Falls National Park.
• Ssese Islands: A remote set of islands on Lake Victoria, perfect for travellers seeking peace and adventure.

Why Visit Entebbe, Uganda?

Entebbe is not just a stopover, it is a destination filled with beauty, culture and natural charm. With its biodiversity, peaceful lakeside atmosphere, wildlife encounters and easy access to major attractions, Entebbe offers a refreshing start or end to your Uganda safari.

Whether you are birding in Mabamba, exploring the historical Tarzan Forest or watching the sunset over Lake Victoria, Entebbe invites you to experience the gentle rhythm of lakeside life in the Pearl of Africa.