CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Top Things to Do in Kampala & Best Day Trips Nearby

Explore Uganda’s Capital with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

Before heading into the wild for your unforgettable gorilla trekking experience, take time to explore Kampala—Uganda’s vibrant, energetic capital. From cultural icons and historical sites to wildlife centers and forest escapes, Kampala and its surroundings offer the perfect pre-safari adventure.

Here’s your ultimate travel guide to the best things to do in and around Kampala, curated by the experts at Safari 2 Gorilla Tours.

Top Things to Do in Kampala

1. Explore the Uganda Museum

Dive into Uganda’s rich cultural heritage with exhibits on traditional life, music, archaeology, and ethnography—the perfect introduction to the country’s diverse history.

2. Visit the Kasubi Royal Tombs (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

This sacred site is the burial ground of Buganda kings and a masterpiece of traditional Ganda architecture. A must-see for those interested in royal history and local spirituality.

3. Climb Namirembe and Rubaga Cathedrals

Perched on Kampala’s famous hills, these twin cathedrals offer sweeping city views and insight into Uganda’s religious heritage.

4. Tour the Gaddafi National Mosque

One of Africa’s largest mosques, featuring Islamic architecture and panoramic views of Kampala from its towering minaret.

5. Walk Through Mengo Palace & Buganda Parliament (Bulange)

Explore the historic seat of the Buganda Kingdom. Learn about Uganda’s monarchy, see the torture chambers from Idi Amin’s regime, and visit the magnificent Lukiiko (parliament) building.

6. Namugongo Martyrs Shrine

One of Uganda’s most important religious pilgrimage sites, honoring the Christian martyrs who were executed in 1886. The impressive basilica is a spiritual and architectural landmark.

7. Discover the Uganda Wildlife Education Center (UWEC)

Sometimes called the “Entebbe Zoo,” UWEC offers an ethical wildlife experience close to Kampala, with rescued lions, rhinos, chimps, and more in a naturalistic setting.

8. Join a Boda Boda or Walking Tour

Get local! Ride through Kampala’s bustling streets, explore hidden alleys, taste street food, and meet the people behind the city’s electric energy.

9. Sample Authentic Ugandan Cuisine

Try “rolex,” “luwombo,” “matoke,” and more at top local spots like 2K Restaurant, Yaya’s, and The Lawns. Don’t leave without sipping fresh juice or Uganda’s beloved gin, Waragi.

10. Shop at Buganda Road Craft Market

Pick up handcrafted jewelry, wood carvings, woven baskets, and batik fabrics—perfect as souvenirs or gifts.

11. Watch Traditional Dances at Ndere Cultural Centre

Enjoy live cultural performances with music, storytelling, and dance from across Uganda’s ethnic communities.

12. Experience Kampala’s Nightlife

After sunset, Kampala comes alive. Dance at Guvnor, sip cocktails at La Venti, or vibe with creatives at Motiv Kampala.

Best Day Trips from Kampala

1. Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary (Lake Victoria)

A short boat ride from Entebbe, this island sanctuary is home to over 50 rescued chimpanzees. Enjoy guided tours, feedings, and conservation education in a pristine tropical setting.

Perfect for: Animal lovers, families, eco-tourists.

2. Mabira Forest Reserve

Just 1.5 hours east of Kampala on the way to Jinja, Mabira offers lush trails, birdwatching, ziplining, and nature walks. It’s Uganda’s largest remaining rainforest.

Perfect for: Nature lovers, hikers, birders.

3. CTC Conservation Center – Mpigi

This ethical wildlife sanctuary focuses on rescued primates and big cats. It’s an easy 1.5-hour drive from Kampala and great for families.

Perfect for: Wildlife fans, conservation supporters.

4. Equator Line – Kayabwe

Stand with one foot in each hemisphere at Uganda’s iconic Equator marker. Enjoy quirky science demos, great photo ops, and local crafts.

Perfect for: Science lovers, Instagrammers, souvenir hunters.

5. Mabamba Wetlands – Shoebill Stork Tour

Located about an hour west of Kampala, this swamp is world-famous for sightings of the rare and prehistoric-looking Shoebill Stork.

Perfect for: Birdwatchers, photographers, eco-tourists.

6. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Track Uganda’s only wild rhinos on foot at this 3-hour drive north of Kampala. Accompanied by rangers, it’s a rare chance to see these majestic creatures up close.
Perfect for: Wildlife enthusiasts, Big Five seekers.

7. White Water Rafting & Adventures in Jinja

A top adrenaline-pumping day trip! Raft the rapids of the River Nile, try kayaking, or visit the Source of the Nile for a relaxing cruise.

Perfect for: Adventure lovers, groups, thrill-seekers.

Final Thoughts: Add Kampala to Your Safari Itinerary

Kampala is more than just a stopover—it’s an experience. Rich with culture, history, food, and exciting excursions, it’s the ideal way to start or end your Uganda safari.

Safari 2 Gorilla Tours Tip:

Spend 2–3 nights in Kampala to explore top attractions and enjoy 1–2 unforgettable day trips before heading to Bwindi or Mgahinga for gorilla trekking.

Ready to explore the heart of Uganda?

Click here to book your Kampala adventure and gorilla trekking safari today with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours!

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Explore Kampala National Theatre with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

Discover Uganda’s Cultural Heart: A Visit to Kampala National Theatre with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

Before or after your thrilling gorilla trekking experience in Uganda’s lush jungles, take a moment to explore the vibrant cultural scene of the capital. Kampala National Theatre, also known as the National Theatre of Uganda, offers a rich immersion into the country’s artistic soul—and Safari 2 Gorilla Tours is here to guide you every step of the way.

What Is Kampala National Theatre?

Built in 1959, the Uganda National Cultural Centre (UNCC)—home to the Kampala National Theatre—is a historic and architectural gem located in the heart of Kampala. It’s not just a performance space, but a cultural hub where Uganda’s music, dance, drama, film, and poetry come to life.

Why Visit the Theatre?

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we believe that a true Ugandan experience goes beyond wildlife. Here’s why a visit to the National Theatre is a must:

  • Live Performances: Catch captivating local productions ranging from traditional dance troupes to modern African plays, storytelling, and spoken word.
  • Craft Markets: Outside the theatre, explore artisan markets with handmade Ugandan crafts, ideal for souvenirs.
  • Local Cuisine: The on-site café and nearby eateries serve authentic Ugandan dishes—perfect for refueling after a cultural showcase.
  • Cultural Connection: Interact with local artists and performers, gaining insights into Uganda’s heritage through creative expression.

A Perfect Pairing: Culture + Nature

Combine your visit to the National Theatre with our Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla Safari packages. Whether you’re beginning your trip in Kampala or wrapping up your adventure, this cultural stop adds depth and color to your Ugandan journey.

Travel with Us
Safari 2 Gorilla Tours offers customizable itineraries that include city tours in Kampala along with your gorilla trekking adventure. Let us take care of transport, tickets, and timing—so you can focus on experiencing the best of Uganda.

Click here Book your cultural add-on today, and let Safari 2 Gorilla Tours show you Uganda through both its wildlife and its rich traditions.

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Ndere Cultural Center: Where Uganda’s Heartbeat Meets Heritage

When planning your Uganda safari, gorilla trekking in Bwindi or Mgahinga is often the star attraction. But to truly grasp the soul of the Pearl of Africa, you must experience its cultural roots — and there’s no better place than Ndere Cultural Center in Kampala. Safari 2 Gorilla Tours blends adventure and culture seamlessly, offering a chance to explore the wild and the wondrous in equal measure.

A Cultural Feast Before the Wild
Ndere Cultural Center is more than just a performance space — it’s a celebration of Uganda’s 56 tribes through dance, music, storytelling, and cuisine. Located in the quiet Ntinda suburb of Kampala, this cultural haven provides visitors with an authentic, vibrant, and often breathtaking showcase of Uganda’s diverse traditions.

Why Include Ndere in Your Safari 2 Gorilla Tours Itinerary?

1. Cultural Immersion Before Gorilla Trekking:
Most gorilla tours start or end in Kampala. A night at Ndere Center is the perfect cultural appetizer or finale. The lively performances educate and entertain, offering a meaningful context for your wildlife encounters in the rainforest.

2. Authentic Ugandan Cuisine:

Enjoy a traditional buffet under the stars — often featuring matooke, groundnut sauce, grilled meats, and fresh tropical fruits. Dining at Ndere is an experience in itself.

3. Family-Friendly Entertainment:

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, the Ndere Troupe’s energy and storytelling are universally engaging and accessible.

4. Convenient Location:

Easily accessible from Kampala or Entebbe, the center also provides accommodation — ideal for travelers easing into or out of their safari schedule.

Sample Itinerary: Safari 2 Gorilla Tours + Ndere Night

  • Day 1: Arrival in Kampala. Evening cultural show at Ndere Center.
  • Day 2: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
  • Day 3: Gorilla trekking adventure.
  • Day 4: Community walk, Batwa cultural experience, return journey.
  • Day 5: Departure or optional tour extensions.

Booking with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

Safari 2 Gorilla Tours specializes in tailored Ugandan experiences that go beyond wildlife. By integrating cultural touchpoints like Ndere Cultural Center into your itinerary, the company ensures your journey is as enriching as it is exhilarating.

Ready to explore Uganda’s culture and creatures?

Click here to Let Safari 2 Gorilla Tours guide you from the rhythms of the drum to the whispers of the jungle.

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Discover the Mystical Kasubi Tombs: A Royal Legacy in the Heart of Kampala

Nestled on the lush Kasubi Hill, just a few kilometers from the bustling center of Kampala, lies one of Uganda’s most revered cultural treasures — the Kasubi Tombs. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this sacred site is more than a burial ground; it is the spiritual heart of the Buganda Kingdom and a powerful symbol of Uganda’s rich cultural heritage.

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we believe that every journey should blend adventure with deep cultural immersion. That’s why we invite you to step beyond the safari trail and explore the timeless legacy of the Kabakas (kings) of Buganda.

A Living Museum of Buganda Culture

The Kasubi Tombs are the final resting place of four Buganda kings and continue to serve as a spiritual center for the Baganda people. The site is built almost entirely from organic materials — reed, thatch, and wood — showcasing exceptional traditional architecture. At the heart of the complex is the Muzibu Azaala Mpanga, a massive circular structure where the kings lie in eternal rest.

While on a guided visit with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, you’ll gain rare insight into royal rituals, clan symbols, and the day-to-day practices of one of Africa’s most influential kingdoms.

Rebirth After Fire

In 2010, a devastating fire destroyed much of the main tomb structure. But thanks to the unity of the Baganda and international support, restoration efforts have brought the site back to life. Visiting today means witnessing both the resilience of a people and the enduring power of cultural preservation.

Combine Culture with Adventure

Your trip to Uganda doesn’t have to be all about wildlife (though we love our gorilla safaris in Bwindi!). With Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, you can tailor your itinerary to include Kampala cultural tours, and the Kasubi Tombs are an unmissable highlight. Pair your visit with stops at the Kabaka’s Palace, Namugongo Martyrs Shrine, or Ndere Cultural Center for a rich, full-day cultural experience.

Plan Your Visit

  • Location: Kasubi Hill, Kampala
  • Best Time to Visit: Year-round (mornings are ideal for guided tours)
  • Duration: 1–2 hours
  • Accessibility: Easily reachable via paved road from central Kampala

Book a Cultural Safari Today

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we go beyond the wild — connecting you with Uganda’s living heritage. Whether you’re drawn to ancient traditions or want to walk in the footsteps of kings, the Kasubi Tombs promise a truly unforgettable experience.

Contact us today to include the Kasubi Tombs in your customized Uganda safari itinerary!

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Discover Ugandas Rich Heritage at the Uganda Museum

Uncover Uganda’s Hidden Treasure: A Visit to the Uganda Museum

When most travelers dream of Uganda, their minds race to misty mountains, dense forests, and the awe-inspiring sight of mountain gorillas in the wild. But there’s another side to Uganda — one equally enriching, deeply rooted in history and culture. Welcome to the Uganda Museum, the country’s oldest and most comprehensive cultural institution.

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we don’t just guide you through the wilderness — we connect you with the soul of the nation. A visit to the Uganda Museum is the perfect complement to your gorilla trekking safari, offering a broader perspective of Uganda’s vibrant heritage.

A Gateway into Uganda’s Past
Founded in 1908, the Uganda Museum in Kampala is the oldest in East Africa and an essential stop for history and culture lovers. It houses a vast array of exhibits showcasing Uganda’s diverse cultures, tribes, and traditions. From tools and household items used by ancient civilizations to traditional clothing, art, and crafts — every item tells a story.

Step into the ethnography gallery and wander through life-size traditional huts representing different Ugandan ethnic groups. It’s an immersive experience that helps visitors appreciate the incredible diversity within Uganda.

Feel the Rhythm: Traditional Ugandan Music

One of the most interactive parts of the museum is its music gallery, where visitors can explore traditional instruments like the adungu, endongo, and engoma. This section comes alive with sound, offering travelers a chance to feel the pulse of Uganda through its music.

Journey into Prehistory

The museum also boasts an impressive collection of prehistoric artifacts, including fossils, stone tools, and ancient bones that date back millions of years. These displays provide a compelling link to humanity’s origins and underline Uganda’s role in the cradle of civilization.

Extend Your Adventure: Culture & Safari in One

Looking to make the most of your time in Uganda? We recommend extending your tour to combine a museum visit with other nearby highlights. Consider adding a Kampala City Tour, where you’ll explore vibrant markets, religious landmarks, and historical sites.

For those craving more wildlife, add a short extension to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to track rhinos on foot, or journey north to Murchison Falls National Park for breathtaking waterfalls, river safaris, and classic Big Five game drives.

All our tours are customizable — we’ll build your itinerary around your interests.

Your Safari, Your Story

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we believe a great safari is about more than just seeing animals — it’s about experiencing Uganda in all its forms. The Uganda Museum gives you context, culture, and connection — enriching every moment of your journey.

Ready to explore more?

Subscribe to one of our upcoming tours, or let us craft a personalized itinerary just for you. Whether you’re here for gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, or cultural exploration, we’re here to guide your way.

Don’t just visit Uganda — experience it.
Click here  to subscribe to a trip or speak with our expert team about planning your dream safari.

CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Explore Gaddafi Mosque with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

Discover Uganda’s Spiritual Heart: Gaddafi Mosque Tour with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

Uganda is best known for its wild encounters with mountain gorillas and its breathtaking natural landscapes—but before you head into the jungle, there’s a cultural gem waiting for you in the heart of Kampala: the Gaddafi National Mosque. With Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, you’ll experience the perfect blend of spiritual discovery and natural adventure.

A Landmark of Faith and Unity

Located on Old Kampala Hill, the Gaddafi Mosque—officially known as the Uganda National Mosque—is the largest mosque in Uganda and one of the most iconic religious structures in East Africa. Commissioned by the late Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, it was gifted to the Muslim community of Uganda as a symbol of pan-Africanism and religious unity.

The architecture is breathtaking: elegant minarets, golden calligraphy, and beautifully crafted interiors that reflect Islamic artistry and African culture. It can host over 15,000 worshippers, making it a vital part of Uganda’s religious life.

Climb to Kampala’s Highest Viewpoint

A highlight of the visit is climbing the towering minaret, which offers a panoramic 360-degree view of the city’s seven hills. It’s the best place in Kampala for travelers to take in the bustling capital—from the red-tiled rooftops to distant views of Lake Victoria.

Trip Extension: From Cityscape to Forest Trails
Our Kampala City Tour, including the Gaddafi Mosque, can be added as a trip extension before or after your wildlife safari or gorilla trekking experience. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in Uganda’s cultural richness before heading to the serene wilderness of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or the wide plains of Murchison Falls National Park.

Be Part of the Journey

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we don’t just take you to see gorillas—we guide you through Uganda’s full story: its cities, its people, and its spiritual landmarks. Our expert guides provide insights into local life, religious traditions, and the country’s history that you won’t find in any guidebook.

Click here to book your tour today and add a meaningful cultural experience to your Ugandan adventure.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a group, we invite you to explore with us—from the mosque to the mountains.