Entebbe, a charming lakeside town nestled on the shores of Lake Victoria, is one of Uganda’s most beautiful and underrated destinations. Located just 40 kilometres from Kampala, Entebbe is home to Entebbe International Airport, making it the first stop for most travellers visiting the Pearl of Africa.
With its serene atmosphere, lush botanical gardens, stunning lake views, and wildlife encounters, Entebbe offers the perfect blend of relaxation, nature, and adventure. Whether you’re arriving in Uganda or wrapping up a safari, Entebbe is the ideal place to unwind and explore.
How to Get to Entebbe
Entebbe is easily accessible via Entebbe International Airport, Uganda’s main international gateway. From the airport, it takes only 10 to 15 minutes to reach most hotels and attractions in town. The town’s proximity to the airport makes it a favourite for travellers seeking short stays, overnight layovers, or day tours.
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, monkeys, butterflies, and birds, the gardens are perfect for a peaceful walk, birdwatching, or a guided nature tour. It’s also believed to have been a filming location for the original Tarzan movie.
- Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC)
Formerly known as the Entebbe Zoo, UWEC is an educational sanctuary that houses rescued and rehabilitated wildlife such as lions, chimpanzees, giraffes, rhinos, and more. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, behind the scenes experiences, and even feed giraffes up close.
- Lake Victoria Sunset Cruises
Take a boat ride or sunset cruise on Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa. Enjoy beautiful lake views, birdwatching opportunities, and a relaxing atmosphere that’s perfect for couples, families, or solo travellers looking to unwind.
- Mabamba Swamp for Shoebill Tracking
Just 45 minutes from Entebbe, Mabamba Swamp is a globally recognized birding hotspot and one of the best places in Africa to spot the rare and prehistoric looking Shoebill Stork. Birdwatching tours by canoe are available daily and offer the chance to see over 300 bird species.
Best Restaurants & Cafés in Entebbe
Entebbe boasts a growing food scene with great local and international options. Visit Goretti’s Beachside Pizzeria for fresh grilled fish and pizzas with lake views. Try 2 Friends Beach Restaurant for seafood, or Café Javas for a modern café experience. For a local bite, don’t miss a freshly made Rolex (rolled chapati with eggs) or Uganda’s famous tilapia fish served at the lakeside.
Where to Stay in Entebbe
From budget hostels to luxurious resorts, Entebbe caters to all types of travellers:
Luxury: Hotel No.5, Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe, Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa
Midrange: 2 Friends Beach Hotel, Boma Hotel Entebbe, Best Western Premier Garden Hotel
Budget: Airport Guesthouse, African Roots Guesthouse, Entebbe Backpackers
Many hotels offer airport transfers and stunning views of Lake Victoria, making Entebbe a great place to relax before or after your safari adventure.
Shopping & Local Experiences
Explore Victoria Mall for shopping, dining, and supermarkets. Visit local craft shops for souvenirs like handmade jewellery, African prints, and wood carvings. Take a walk through Entebbe’s local markets for fresh fruits, street snacks, and local culture.
 Day Trips from Entebbe
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary: A boat trip away, this sanctuary is home to over 50 rescued chimpanzees living on a forested island.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: If you’re heading toward Murchison Falls, stop at Ziwa to see Uganda’s only wild rhinos.
Ssese Islands: Take a ferry to these remote islands on Lake Victoria for a true off the beaten path beach getaway.
 Why Visit Entebbe, Uganda?
Entebbe is not just a stopover it’s a destination in its own right. With its rich biodiversity, peaceful environment, scenic lakefront views, and easy access to wildlife and nature, it offers a refreshing start or end to your Uganda safari. Whether you’re birding in Mabamba, relaxing by the beach, or enjoying local culture, Entebbe is the perfect place to experience the gentle rhythm of Uganda’s lakeside life.