Top 5 Amazing Places To Visit When You Self Drive Kampala

Known as the “City of Seven Hills,” Kampala is Uganda’s capital and its busiest commercial hub, sitting close to Lake Victoria and only about 40 km from Entebbe International Airport. It is also one of the most rewarding cities in East Africa to explore on your own schedule. If you choose to self drive in Kampala city, you can royal tombs, hilltop cathedrals, live cultural shows and lively evening spots together in whatever order suits you, without waiting on tour groups or fixed timetables.

Kampala’s attractions are spread across different hills and neighbourhood, which makes having your own vehicle a real advantage. This guide covers five of the best places to visit, along with practical tips to make your drive easier.

1. Kasubi Tombs: The Heart of Buganda’s Royal Heritage

Perched on Kasubi Hill, a short drive northwest of the city centre, the Kasubi Tombs are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the burial place of several Buganda kings (Kabakas) and members of the royal family. The main building, with its vast thatched dome made from reeds and wood, is a masterpiece of traditional Ganda architecture.

The site remains deeply spiritual for the Baganda people. A fire damaged the main tomb building in 2010, and restoration work has continued since, so check current visiting conditions before you set out. A local guide on site can explain the rituals, symbolism and history, which makes the visit far more meaningful.

Self-drive tip: Roads around Kasubi can be busy and narrow in places. Allow extra time and avoid weekday rush hours.

2. Mengo Hill: Lubiri Palace, Bulange and Kabaka’s Lake

Mengo Hill is the political and cultural centre of the Buganda Kingdom. Here you will find the Lubiri (the Kabaka’s palace), the Bulange (the kingdom’s parliament building), and the Kabaka’s Lake, a large man-made lake dug in the 19th century.

The area gives you a window into how the Buganda Kingdom, one of the largest and most influential traditional kingdoms in Uganda, has shaped the country’s identity. Tours often include the grounds, stories of the kingdom’s history and the royal drive that links the palace to the Bulange.

Self-drive tip: The roads around Mengo are lively with boda-bodas and pedestrians. Drive slowly, stay alert and park in safe, designated areas.

3. Ndere Centre: An Evening of Music, Dance and Culture

Located in Ntinda, the Ndere Centre is one of Kampala’s best-loved cultural venues. Its performances bring together traditional dance, drumming and song from different regions and ethnic groups across Uganda, and the shows are energetic, colourful and welcoming to visitors.

Performances typically take place in the evening on selected days of the week, and many visitors combine the show with dinner at the venue. You can also pick up handmade crafts and souvenirs. Because schedules and ticket prices can change, confirm details with the centre before you go.

Self-drive tip: An evening show means returning after dark. Book your ticket in advance, plan your route home beforehand, and use well-lit roads.

4. Religious Landmarks: Faith and History on Seven Hills

Kampala’s skyline is shaped by places of worship, many of them with remarkable stories. Highlights include:

• Namirembe Cathedral: The oldest Anglican cathedral in Uganda, sitting on a hilltop with wide views over the city.
• Rubaga Cathedral: The seat of the Catholic Archdiocese of Kampala, standing on its own hill.
• Gaddafi National Mosque: One of the largest mosques in East Africa, with a minaret that offers panoramic views of the city.
• Baha’i Temple: A serene domed temple set in landscaped gardens on Kikaaya Hill, welcoming visitors of all backgrounds.
• Namugongo Martyrs Shrine: A major pilgrimage site, honouring the Christian martyrs of the 1880s, which draws visitors from across Africa each June.

Together these sites reflect Uganda’s religious diversity and its history. Since they sit on different hills, driving yourself lets you fit several into a single day.

Self-drive tip: Dress modestly and be ready to remove your shoes at certain sites. Hilltop access roads can be steep, so take it slowly.

5. Entertainment and Family Fun: Kampala After Dark and Beyond

Kampala has a well-earned reputation for its social scene. Evenings bring live music, bars, restaurants and clubs across neighbourhood such as Kololo, Bugolobi, Muyenga and Ntinda. For families, the city offers play parks, swimming pools, theatres, golf courses and sports venues, so there is something for every age.

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If you enjoy live theatre and the arts, the National Theatre and other performance venues host regular events. Sports fans can catch matches at local stadiums, and rugby supporters will find the game has a strong following in the city.

Self-drive tip: If you plan to go out for the evening, designate a sober driver or arrange a taxi or ride-hailing service. Never drink and drive.

Practical Tips for Driving in Kampala

Driving in the capital is easier with some local knowledge:

• Drive on the left. Uganda uses left-hand traffic.
• Avoid peak hours. Weekday mornings and evenings are the busiest, so plan sightseeing for mid-morning or early afternoon.
• Expect boda-bodas. Motorcycle taxis weave through traffic, so give them space and check mirrors often.
• Use a navigation app. Google Maps or Waze can help you find routes and avoid congestion.
• Park safely. Choose secure, designated parking and never leave valuables in view.
• Carry your documents. Keep your driving licence, rental agreement and ID with you at all times.

Which Car Is Best for Self Drive in Kampala?

For city sightseeing, a compact saloon or small SUV is usually all you need. It is easier to park, uses less fuel and handles Kampala’s busy streets with ease. If you plan to continue on to a national park after your city tour, a 4×4 gives you extra comfort and ground clearance on rougher roads.

Rent A Driver Uganda offers a range of rental cars in Uganda for both options, with flexible rental periods and the choice of self-drive or a professional driver.

Ready to Self Drive in Kampala?

Kampala rewards curious travellers, and the best way to see it is at your own pace. Whether you want to walk through the royal tombs, enjoy a night of live culture or explore the city’s hilltop landmarks, having your own car makes the experience smoother and more flexible.

Contact Rent A Driver Uganda today to reserve your vehicle and start planning your trip. You can call/chat on +256-700135510 or email to info@rentadriveruganda.com.