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Entebbe, also known as “the city that never sleeps,” has a lot to offer, including its top attractions, exciting hangouts, excellent nightlife and culture, events, restaurants, lodging, and more.

Located on the banks of the scenic Lake Victoria, Entebbe is a charming, lush town that was the capital of the British protectorate in its early years. The city draws in tourists who enjoy it for its close proximity to natural attractions and leisurely pace of life as well as significant historical monuments.

Must-See Attractions in Entebbe

Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

This Sanctuary receives juvenile chimpanzees who are brought in for rehabilitation and a fresh start on the stunning island. One would have to use a boat or public ferry to get to the Ngamba island chimpanzee sanctuary. Once on the island, you can watch the chimps (or even participate) as they feed from their cages before leaving to return to the forest.

The Equator

Get here and take an iconic picture standing with one foot in the north and the other in the southern hemisphere. Also, take a moment to notice how the sun rises and falls rather so fast at the equator, and see how water drains straight downwards contrary to the north and southern hemispheres. You will also find out that you are 3% lighter while at the equator line.

National Botanical Gardens

This eco-zone found on the shores of Lake Victoria is an excellent spot for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous shorebirds. It is highly commendable for its birding experience, nature walks, biking and rest assured that you will come across some monkeys. The National Botanical Gardens are a conservation area for over 300 tree species that have been in existence for centuries.

Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (Zoo)

This was established in 1952 with the major aim of rescuing and rehabilitating injured and orphaned wildlife. It is a collection of over 400 indigenous wild animals, 500 plant species and over 250 bird species. The animals protected here include; zebras, antelopes, monkeys & chimps, giraffes, cheetahs, rhinos, warthogs, lions and many more including birds like the shoebill, African fish eagle and reptiles.

Mabamba Swamp

Mabamba wetland is home to globally endangered bird species like the rare Shoebill stork and the beautiful blue swallow. It is a sanctuary for over 260 bird species and is only accessible via canoe ride. It is located on the Northwest of Entebbe Peninsular, along the edge of Lake Victoria. It got its name from the local fishermen due to a huge quantity of lungfish “Mamba”, the most sought-after fish by fishermen as well as a favorite food for the shoebill. 

Uganda Reptile Village

The Uganda Reptile Village is a Community-Based Organization established in 2003 to teach the community the importance of reptiles in the ecosystem and to encourage their conservation. It is home to 20 reptile species and over 50 reptiles including Black mamba, Jameson’s mamba, Rock Pythons, Vipers, Egyptian & Forest Cobras, Puff adders, Tortoises, Monitor lizards, Crocodiles along with Chameleons and many more.

Kigungu Historical Site

Located on the shores of Lake Victoria, this holy ground is where the story of the Catholic religion in Uganda begins. The first Catholic missionaries (Brother Amans and Fr. Mon Maple Lourdel) first landed here more than a century ago.

TOP REASONS TO VISIT

From its picturesque shores along Lake Victoria to its rich biodiversity and vibrant culture, Entebbe offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and adventure.

  1. Amazing hospitality
  2. Wildlife viewing
  3. Ideal weather
  4. Rich history and culture
  5. Vibrant markets
  6. Bird watching
  7. Scenic views
Best Time To Visit Entebbe

The best time to visit Entebbe is during the dry season months of January, February, July, and August. Because of Lake Victoria’s moderating effect, Entebbe experiences a milder climate than the rest of the nation during this time of year.

THE TEMPERATURE OF ENTEBBE CITY

The climate in Entebbe is tropical savanna. Every month is warm, and there are rainy and dry seasons. In Entebbe, the average annual temperature is 23°C. With an average humidity of 79%, it is dry for 87 days out of the year.

BEST TIME TO VISIT ENTEBBE BY SEASON

The Best Seasons for Planning Your Entebbe Safari Tours are;

Wet season: March to May

Dry Season: December to February, June to September.

Entebbe Tour Activities

Entebbe has a lot to offer with its varied fauna, breathtaking scenery, and rich cultural legacy. It’s a fascinating travel destination that has made a come-back with several opportunities to enjoy Entebbe Tour activities.

Bird watching

With its diverse habitats ranging from wetlands to forests, Entebbe is a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. On the shores of Lake Victoria, you can spot a multitude of waterfowl species, including African fish eagles and pied kingfishers. Explore the lush forests of the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), where colorful sunbirds, turacos, and hornbills flit among the trees. Don’t miss out on the Mabamba Swamp, renowned for its elusive shoebill stork sightings.

Fishing Safari

Strategically located on the shores of Africa’s largest freshwater lake, Entebbe offers unparalleled opportunities for fishing enthusiasts. Cast your line into the sparkling waters of Lake Victoria, teeming with an abundance of fish species including Nile perch, tilapia, and catfish. Join a guided fishing safari and navigate the serene waters aboard traditional wooden boats.

Wildlife viewing

Entebbe boasts remarkable opportunities for wildlife viewing. From the captivating Reptile Village to the Chimpanzee Sanctuary, Entebbe offers unparalleled wildlife encounters. Dive into the vibrant ecosystem at Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), where lions, giraffes, and chimps roam. Explore lush botanical gardens teeming with exotic flora.

Get the true taste of Entebbe City with Gazelle Safaris Africa. Visit our website right away to learn more about the top Entebbe City Tour Activities. Get the best selections as you explore the Entebbe travel guide.

Entebbe at a Glance

Here is Entebbe At A Glance to get a better understanding of the city.

Basic Information

Official name: Entebbe City

Area: 56.2 sq. km

Divisions

  • Division A
  • Division B

Population

Total: 70,000

Language

Official language: English and Luganda

  • Banks
  • Hotels
  • Shops
  • Restaurants
  • ATMs

Key Economic Sectors

  • Trade
  • Service

Transport

Roads in fair condition

Public transport is widely accessible

Health

Health sector is in a fair state

Malaria is a major health problem to look out for.

Quick Facts About Entebbe

PEOPLE

Entebbe’s residents are renowned for their warm hospitality, vibrant traditions, and welcoming demeanor, creating a friendly and inclusive atmosphere for visitors to experience.

MONEY

The official currency of Uganda is the Ugandan shilling (UGX). ATMs are widely available throughout the city, making it easy for visitors to access cash.

GEOGRAPHY

Entebbe is situated on a peninsula extending into Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest freshwater lake. Surrounded by water on three sides, the city offers picturesque views of the lake and its lush, green shores.

ACTIVITIES

Popular activities in Entebbe include visiting the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre to see indigenous wildlife, exploring the Botanical Gardens, and enjoying water sports on Lake Victoria.

WEATHER

Entebbe has a tropical climate, with relatively consistent temperatures year-round. The city experiences two rainy seasons from March to June and from October to December. It experiences a short dry season from December to February.

TRANSPORT

Transport options in Entebbe include taxis, boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis), and matatus (minibus taxis). Entebbe International Airport is Uganda’s main airport with domestic and international flights connecting Entebbe to destinations across Africa and beyond.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Want to arrange a trip to Entebbe? With our online Uganda travel advice on visas, embassies, transportation, healthcare, currency, and what to read, you can start planning your city tour right away. Entebbe tour packages make organizing your trip easy and economical.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Entebbe good for tourist activities?

 Entebbe is an excellent destination for tourists, offering a variety of activities such as visiting the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, exploring the Botanical Gardens, and relaxing on the shores of Lake Victoria.

2. What is the best time to visit Entebbe?

The best time to visit Entebbe is during the dry season, which runs from June to August and December to February. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant, and wildlife viewing opportunities are at their peak.

3. What is the most common way to get around Entebbe for a tourist?

The most common way to get around Entebbe as a tourist is by using taxis, boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis), or hiring a private car with a driver. Additionally, some hotels offer shuttle services for their guests.

4. Where do I stay during an Entebbe Tour?

Entebbe offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, including luxury resorts, boutique hotels, guesthouses, and budget-friendly lodges. Some of these accommodations are located near the shores of Lake Victoria, providing scenic views and easy access to attractions.

5. What currency should I carry while traveling to Entebbe?

The official currency of Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). It’s advisable to carry Ugandan Shillings for smaller purchases and transactions. ATMs are widely available in Entebbe for currency exchange and cash withdrawals. You can also access forex bureaus to change your money to the local currency.

6. Is Entebbe safe for tourists?

 Entebbe is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as with any destination, it’s essential to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas and when using public transportation.

7. What languages are spoken in Entebbe?

Just like in Kampala, the primary languages spoken in Entebbe are English and Luganda. English is widely used in tourist areas like hotels. But you will likely hear other local languages such as Luganda, especially in more rural areas.