Entebbe is situated on the Lake Victoria peninsula, approximately 37 kilometers southwest of Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. The city is home to the State House, the official residence and office of Uganda's President, as well as the nation's main international airport, Entebbe International Airport.

Things to do in Entebbe and the surrounding areas

1. Nature Walk in the Botanical Gardens

The Entebbe Botanical Gardens has a variety of tree species that support a wide range of birds, butterflies, and primate species, including monkeys. Conducting a nature walk is a worthwhile experience for guests because it offers an array of activities that include leisure, education, and conservation.

2. Boat cruises on Lake Victoria

On Lake Victoria, private and scheduled sunset leisure cruises are available at 17:00 hrs and last for approximately two hours. These boats are powered by outboard engines and are fully equipped with passenger amenities, including lifejackets and rain suits. Additionally, the boats are equipped with essential safety equipment, including a first aid kit, tracking devices, and a mobile phone for communication.

During the boat cruises, you view the sun over the horizon and watch the fishermen cast their nets and enjoy the snacks and drinks provided on board.

3. Bird watching

Entebbe town and its surroundings are excellent birding spots for forest and water birds. The birding spots in Entebbe include Mabamba Swamp, renowned for its prehistoric shoebill, and the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, which are home to a diverse range of forest birds. Other birding locations include the Kigungu landing site and Mugula Cultural Ground, which are popular for their migratory bird populations, as well as Lutembe Bay.

4. Explore Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

The Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary is a protected area situated on a 100-acre island in Lake Victoria, 23 kilometers from Entebbe town. Out of the total area (100 acres) occupied by the sanctuary, 95 acres are forested and separated from the human camp by an electric fence. It serves as a permanent home for 52 orphaned chimpanzees rescued from illegal poaching. As these chimpanzees are unable to survive in the wild, the sanctuary provides them with a safe and natural environment in which to live.

The sanctuary is open to the public who pay an entrance fee every day of the year, with two daily scheduled viewing sessions. These sessions offer visitors an exceptional opportunity to observe chimpanzees very closely and to participate in high-quality educational programs about the apes.

Traveling to Ngamba Island is by boat from the Entebbe dock. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes by speedboat or 90 minutes by a standard motorized canoe.

5. Explore Nakiwogo Market in Entebbe

While visiting Entebbe, guests are invited to explore the vibrant Nakiwogo market. This bustling center of commerce and social activity offers a dynamic atmosphere where visitors can observe local vendors selling a wide array of goods and community members gathering to discuss daily news.

By exploring the local markets, visitors observe an authentic local business setting. The market’s bustling environment offers a comprehensive and rich understanding of how the community lives, works, socializes, and thrives on a day-to-day basis.

6. Sport Fishing

Hotels and resorts along Lake Victoria's shores in Entebbe and Ssese Islands boast numerous fishing spots that invite anglers to cast their lines for sport fishing. During these excursions, participants savor moments of exhilaration, unwind in the calm, and soak in breathtaking views. This pastime adds a recreational twist to the East African safari, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural world.

Anglers catch a variety of fish species during sport fishing expeditions, including Nile Perch, Tilapia, Tiger Fish, Catfish, and Barbel (yellow fish).

7. Modern Accommodation facilities

Entebbe town offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors from around the world, whether they are traveling for leisure, vacations, or honeymoons. There are numerous categories of accommodations with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Luxury hotels and resorts are situated strategically within the town or along the shores of Lake Victoria. These provide guests with exceptional services, delicious cuisine, warm hospitality, and unforgettable experiences during their vacation or honeymoon.