Cities in Uganda

Uganda Cities

Uganda is a lively, landlocked country in East Africa. Kampala is the capital and largest city. There are also several other cities in Uganda.

Uganda borders Kenya to the east, South Sudan to the north, and the Republic of Congo to the west. To the south, it shares borders with Rwanda and Tanzania.

Kampala City of Uganda

Uganda’s city Kampala received its name from the impala animal. It is Uganda’s largest economic, political, and social hub. The city of seven hills extends to Lake Victoria. This lake is Africa’s largest freshwater lake and the main source of the Nile.

Kampala is the top city to live in East Africa. It beats its neighbors: Kigali, Nairobi, and Dar es Salaam. Kampala City is fast-growing. It attracts investors and has improved facilities in East and Central Africa.

There are many things to do and places to see in Kampala. The top attractions are:

  • Uganda National Museum
  • Uganda Martyrs’ Shrine
  • Namirembe Cathedral
  • Rubaga Cathedral
  • Uganda National Mosque
  • Bahai Temple
  • Kasubi Tombs
  • Kabaka’s Palace
  • Nakasero Market
  • Independence Monument
  • Kabaka’s Lake
  • Shopping malls
  • Vibrant nightclubs
uganda martys shrine
Uganda Martyrs Catholic Shrine Basilica, Namugongo.

Kampala is 40.8 kilometers from Entebbe International Airport. The two cities interconnect, relying on each other in many ways.

Main Cities in Uganda.

Entebbe City

Entebbe City hosts Entebbe International Airport. This airport is key for international travel. Right now, all international flights use this airport. New airports, like Hoima/Kabalega International Airport, will open soon. The city is almost surrounded by Lake Victoria. Many hotels and beaches line Africa’s largest lake in Entebbe.

This city is appealing due to its modern infrastructure and attractive scenery. Tourists love this city for its airport, nice hotels, and open roads. Most safaris start or finish in Entebbe. Popular activities include boat trips, chimpanzee tours, birding, fishing, and kayaking.

Here are the best places to check out in Entebbe:

  • Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC)
  • Lake Victoria
  • Entebbe Botanical Gardens
  • Entebbe Beaches
  • Ngamba Island
  • Mabamba Swamp
  • Shopping malls

Jinja City

Jinja City is Uganda’s top tourism destination, known for its history and industries. It’s only 78 km from Kampala, making it easy for tourists to visit any time. You don’t need much planning for a trip to Jinja—pack your bags and get going.

Jinja City stretches to the Lake Victoria shoreline. It is also home to the source of the Nile River, making it an adventurous place.

source of the nile
Source of the Nile – Jinja

Jinja City offers many activities. You can enjoy thrilling options like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and boat trips. You can enjoy kayaking, fishing, and nature walks. Join community tours, go quad biking, or try horseback riding. Birdwatching is fun too! Don’t miss annual events like Nyege Nyege.

Key places to visit in Jinja include:

  • The source of the Nile
  • Lake Victoria
  • The River Nile
  • Mabira Forest
  • Uganda Railway Museum
  • Itanda Falls

There are many more things to explore!

Mbarara City

Mbarara City is famous for its bizarre long-horned cattle. Ranches around the city host many herds. It is the largest city in Western Uganda. The country’s most accessible national park is right next door. You can take a quick game drive in this park as you are heading to Bwindi.

Lake Mburo National Park has zebras, impalas, giraffes, buffalo, warthogs, and hippos. To enjoy this park, combine game drives and boat trips. The park also offers birdwatching, nature walks, and horseback safaris.

Key historical sites near Mbarara city are:

  • Igongo Cultural Centre
  • Biharwe Eclipse Monument
  • King’s palace
  • Nkokonjeru tombs

Gulu City

Gulu City is a charming and rich cultural destination in northern Uganda. Its bright streets attract many tourists. Visitors explore nearby parks and historical sites like Fort Patiko. Kidepo Valley and Murchison Falls National Parks are also close by.

Mbale City

Mbale is a city at the base of Mount Elgon, an extinct volcano situated on the Uganda–Kenya border. This city is an ideal place to start from if you plan to hike Mount Elgon National Park.

This national park is best explored on foot. It offers great adventures for nature lovers hiking on various trails. Hiking to see animals, beautiful scenery, and Sipi Falls is a rewarding experience. Local people are the Gisu, known for their unique cultural ceremonies like Imbalu.