What to do Around Entebbe Town

Exploring Entebbe: A World of Attractions and Activities

Are you curious about what Entebbe, Uganda has to offer? Well, look no further, because Entebbe is a place that never ceases to amaze. Whether you’re a visitor or a long-term resident, you’re in for a treat with an abundance of attractions and activities that can make your time here unforgettable.

Unveiling Lake Victoria’s Treasures

Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest freshwater lake and the world’s second-largest, only after Lake Baikal in Siberia, stands as one of Uganda’s leading tourist destinations. Nestled on almost all sides by the town of Entebbe, Lake Victoria offers a range of activities for visitors to indulge in. You can choose to swim in its clear waters, go fishing, embark on boat cruises, paddle a canoe, explore the nearby islands, or simply unwind by the lake’s tranquil shores.

A Day at the Beaches

Entebbe, being a town surrounded by water, boasts some of Uganda’s finest and most popular beaches. These sandy sanctuaries include Lido Beach, Entebbe Resort Beach, Sports Beach, Aero Beach, and Spena Beach. Additionally, hotels and resorts in Entebbe have their own private beaches, such as Anderita and Botanical Beach Hotels. On weekends, these beaches come alive with locals and revelers from Kampala and neighboring towns, often accompanied by lively music and boat cruises.

Sailing into the Sunset

Entebbe is home to one of Uganda’s oldest sailing clubs, a bustling hub of activity on weekends. Visitors can observe traditional-looking dhows setting sail with a multitude of revelers into the vast Lake Victoria. Sporting competitions are frequently organized at the club, showcasing the fastest boats and fostering a spirit of friendly competition. A visit to the Entebbe Sailing Club is perfect for a memorable weekend with friends or family. Sunset boat cruises, complete with food and drinks, offer a fantastic journey from the Wildlife Conservation Education Centre to some of the Ssese Islands.

Entebbe International Airport: A Gateway to the World

Entebbe town proudly hosts Uganda’s only international airport. Positioned near the shores of Lake Victoria, the airport, located approximately 25 miles from Kampala, accommodates a variety of UN and humanitarian aircraft, ready for missions to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, and South Sudan. It serves as a significant link to the rest of the world.

Retreating to the Botanical Gardens

Established in 1891, the Entebbe Botanical Gardens are a historic site where it is believed one of the original Tarzan movies was filmed. This tranquil oasis is a popular hangout for both locals and tourists seeking a quiet place to unwind and connect with nature. Boasting impressive biodiversity, the gardens are considered crucial learning centers for scholars both locally and abroad. Visitors can explore the gardens for plant identification and birdwatching, with the chance to spot monkeys, including the black-and-white colobus and vervet monkeys. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the numerous avian species calling the gardens home.

The Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Center (Entebbe Zoo)

Popularly known as Entebbe Zoo, this center has become a leading educational facility on wildlife within Africa. It was initially opened in 1952 for the purpose of rescuing animals and later transitioned into a full-fledged zoo. The center continues to rehabilitate rescued animals from poachers, releasing them back into the wild when feasible. It features a remarkable collection of wildlife and stunning scenery, offering a quicker alternative for those without the time to visit national parks. At this center, visitors can observe various species of monkeys, mammals, birds, and reptiles in their natural habitats.

The Reptile Sanctuary: A World of Slithering Wonders

The Reptile Sanctuary is a captivating and valuable initiative dedicated to conserving reptiles while offering an exciting experience to tourists. This is not just a fascinating destination; it’s also a noble endeavor. The resources generated from visitors contribute to saving even more reptiles, benefiting the communities where these creatures may accidentally cross paths with humans. Visitors can expect to encounter various snakes, chameleons, tortoises, turtles, monitor lizards, and crocodiles. For the adventurous, the option to hold chameleons, tortoises, and turtles is available. Despite any rumors of being run down, our perspective is that this sanctuary is definitely worth the 8.3-kilometer journey.

Delving into Uganda Virus Research Institute

The Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) plays a pivotal role in health research concerning human infections and diseases related to viral causes. This institution offers expert advice, fosters partnerships and communication, and serves as a hub for training and education.

Exploring Entebbe’s Vibrant Markets

To truly immerse yourself in local life and culture, make your way to Entebbe’s primary markets. The town features two main markets: one is located near the first Shell gas station on the route from Kampala, and the other is situated in Kitooro. Additionally, smaller markets open on specific days of the week, such as the one in Abaiita Ababiri on the Kampala-Entebbe road.

Entebbe is an urban gem, where the adventure never ends, and visitors can discover a myriad of treasures while reveling in the serene atmosphere, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re exploring Lake Victoria, relaxing at the beaches, or taking in the town’s rich history, Entebbe has something for everyone to enjoy.