Hotels in Kampala

Kampala: Where Lush Gardens Meet Majestic Hills and Sacred Temples

Kampala, the vibrant heart of Uganda, is a captivating blend of culture, history, and stunning landscapes. Nestled among rolling hills, the city boasts lush gardens and iconic landmarks like the Temple of the Bahá'í Faith and the majestic Rubaga Cathedral. Stroll through bustling markets, savour delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions at the Uganda Museum. With its warm hospitality and lively atmosphere, Kampala offers a unique urban adventure for every traveller—from cultural enthusiasts to those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. Discover the essence of Uganda in this dynamic city where past and present beautifully intertwine. For our best hotel rates in Kampala and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Kampala

Some of the best places to stay in Kampala are Muyenga, Ntinda and Bugolobi. Kampala's Muyenga, Ntinda, and Bugolobi offer unique experiences for travellers. Muyenga is known for its scenic hills and vibrant expat community, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Ntinda features lively markets and local dining, while Bugolobi boasts a mix of modern amenities and cultural spots. Accommodation ranges from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, with comfortable rooms and competitive rates widely available. Each area provides a welcoming atmosphere for exploring Uganda's rich culture and hospitality. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Kampala:

1. MuyengaOpens in a new window: Muyenga is a vibrant area well-known for its rich cultural heritage, featuring attractions like Kibuli Mosque and Kabaka's Palace. Its proximity to the Parliament of the Republic of Uganda adds a business flair, making it suitable for various travellers. For your stay, consider Koki HotelOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel that caters to business and romantic getaways, offering amenities like a conference centre and spa services. Latitude 0 DegreesOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel, is ideal for spa enthusiasts and features a full-service spa alongside business facilities. Additionally, Le Petit Village Hotel & SpaOpens in a new window provides a similar spa experience with accessible business amenities, ensuring a relaxing and productive stay.
2. NtindaOpens in a new window: Ntinda is perfect for families and cultural enthusiasts, with key sites like Ndere Cultural Centre and Uganda National Museum nearby. It offers a variety of accommodation options, including Evelyn ApartmentsOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel featuring fitness facilities and diverse dining options, making it suitable for active families. Nob View HotelOpens in a new window is another great choice, combining business amenities with golf activities, ensuring a well-rounded experience. For spa lovers, The Venti Hotel & SpaOpens in a new window provides excellent relaxation options and business facilities.
3. BugolobiOpens in a new window: Bugolobi is a family-friendly area steeped in culture, with attractions such as Kibuli Mosque and Uganda National Museum. For a reliable stay, Best Western Plus The Athena HotelOpens in a new window offers solid business amenities, making it a great choice for corporate travellers. Khalifa Executive SuitesOpens in a new window is another 4-star option that focuses on business needs, providing various meeting facilities. Lastly, Royal SuitesOpens in a new window is ideal for families, offering child-friendly amenities while catering to business needs, ensuring comfort and convenience for all guests.

Things to do in Kampala for first times

A visit to Kampala offers a captivating blend of lush hills, vibrant gardens, and serene lakes, perfect for nature enthusiasts. Spend three days enjoying activities like birdwatching, hiking, and live music, while soaking in breathtaking sunrises and immersing yourself in the local theatre scene. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Kampala:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure in Kampala by visiting Rubaga Cathedral, a stunning architectural masterpiece perched atop a hill with breathtaking views of the city. After exploring the cathedral, make your way to Namirembe Cathedral, which is known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and serene atmosphere. Conclude your day by visiting the Buganda Parliament, where you can learn about the rich cultural heritage and political history of the Buganda Kingdom.
• Day 2: Your day kicks off at Kabaka's Palace, an important historical site that reflects the grandeur of Buganda's royal heritage. Next, head to the Gaddafi National Mosque, a striking mosque with impressive domes and minarets, offering panoramic views of Kampala from its rooftop. Afterward, visit Kibuli Mosque, an important religious site, where you can appreciate its peaceful surroundings and beautiful architecture, making for a thoughtful end to your day.
• Day 3: Start your exploration at the Uganda National Museum, where fascinating exhibits showcase the country's history, culture, and biodiversity. Following your museum visit, enjoy a cultural experience at Ndere Cultural Centre, where you can witness captivating performances that celebrate Uganda's diverse traditions. Wrap up your itinerary at the Baha'i House of Worship, a tranquil space that promotes unity and peace, providing a reflective conclusion to your Ugandan adventure.

4 tips to find a great Kampala hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Kampala is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. Domestic travellers should aim to book their flights at least one month in advance for the best deals, while international travellers should make their reservations at least three months ahead to secure cheaper rates. To truly appreciate the city's great value for money, plan to stay for at least 3-4 days, allowing you to explore its beautiful gardens and hilly landscapes.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're on the lookout for last-minute deals to Kampala, Hotels.com offers a great way to snag affordable accommodations. You may discover enticing discounts by checking out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the website, where hotels often have reduced rates as your travel dates approach. To ensure you stay informed about potential flash sales and exclusive promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’re more likely to catch the best hotel deal before it slips away.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may allow you to save on hotel expenses in Kampala.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or city centres often offers convenience but usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and the ease of reaching the places you wish to visit.

Best time to go to Kampala

Kampala experiences its lowest average temperature in June, at 69.6°F (20.9°C), while February is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 73.4°F (23.0°C). April is usually the wettest month. February, July, and September are the peak travel months in Kampala, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, May, October, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.