Activities to Do in Entebbe Town

Set along the northern shores of Lake Victoria, Entebbe Town is Uganda’s tranquil gateway to the wild — a charming lakeside retreat where nature, history, and culture blend seamlessly. Once the seat of colonial government, Entebbe is now a vibrant yet laid-back town filled with lush gardens, wildlife sanctuaries, beaches, and cultural experiences.

Whether you’re arriving for a safari or winding down after gorilla trekking, Entebbe offers plenty of relaxing and exciting activities to make your stay memorable.

1. Visit the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC – The Zoo)

Commonly known as the Entebbe Zoo, UWEC offers an educational and interactive introduction to Uganda’s wildlife. You’ll meet rescued animals that can no longer return to the wild — including lions, elephants, chimpanzees, leopards, rhinos, crocodiles, and shoebill storks.

Visitors can book behind-the-scenes experiences such as Keeper for a Day, where you help feed and care for the animals, or Chimpanzee Close-Up, which lets you interact safely with these intelligent primates under supervision.

It’s perfect for families, first-time visitors, or anyone who wants a preview of Uganda’s rich biodiversity.

2. Explore the Entebbe Botanical Gardens

Founded in 1898, the Entebbe Botanical Gardens are among the oldest in East Africa. The gardens sprawl along Lake Victoria’s edge and feature a mix of indigenous forest, tropical trees, and exotic plant species.

A guided walk reveals colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, butterflies, and over 100 bird species, including hornbills and kingfishers. The gentle lakeside trails and shaded lawns make it a great spot for photography, bird watching, or a peaceful picnic.

Fun fact: several scenes from the original 1940s Tarzan films were shot here!

3. Go Bird Watching at Mabamba Bay Wetland

Located about 13 km west of Entebbe, Mabamba Bay is one of the best places in Africa to spot the rare Shoebill Stork. This vast papyrus wetland on Lake Victoria’s edge hosts over 300 bird species, including the African Pygmy Goose, Goliath Heron, and Malachite Kingfisher.

Birdwatching here is done by canoe, gliding silently through papyrus channels as expert local guides help you find the elusive shoebill and other wetland birds.

Mabamba is a Ramsar-listed wetland, making it a must-visit for any birder visiting Uganda.

4. Relax on Entebbe’s Beaches

Entebbe is blessed with several beautiful Lake Victoria beaches, perfect for relaxing after a safari or flight.

Popular options include:

• Lido Beach: The oldest and liveliest beach, known for music and weekend parties.

• Aero Beach: Famous for its quirky aircraft sculptures and local hangouts.

• White Sands Beach & Imperial Resort Beach: Family-friendly spots with quiet waters, bars, and restaurants.

• One Love Beach (owned by Bobi Wine): A chill spot known for its music scene and sunsets.

Swimming is allowed in designated areas, though always check local conditions due to lake currents and water safety.

5. Visit the Uganda Reptile Village

Located just a few kilometers from the airport, the Uganda Reptile Village is a community conservation initiative that rescues and displays various reptile species. You’ll see snakes, chameleons, monitor lizards, tortoises, and crocodiles, and learn how these creatures fit into Uganda’s ecosystem.

Guided tours are educational, interactive, and great for families or wildlife enthusiasts.

6. Take a Boat Cruise on Lake Victoria

A boat trip on Lake Victoria offers both relaxation and adventure. Options range from short sunset cruises to half-day excursions to nearby islands.

• Sunset Cruises: Enjoy cool breezes, golden skies, and cold drinks as the sun dips over Africa’s largest lake.

• Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary: Take a speedboat or motorboat to meet orphaned chimpanzees cared for by the Jane Goodall Institute.

• Fishing Trips: Lake Victoria is home to the famous Nile perch, making it ideal for sport fishing excursions.

Cruises can be arranged through local operators or from hotels along the waterfront.

7. Explore Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Just 23 km from Entebbe, Ngamba Island is a forested refuge for orphaned chimpanzees rescued from the illegal pet trade. Visitors can take a half-day or full-day boat trip to the island, watch chimp feeding sessions, and learn about their rehabilitation and conservation.

It’s an intimate and moving experience that supports the sanctuary’s long-term conservation work.

8. Stroll Through Entebbe Town and Local Markets

Take a leisurely walk through Entebbe town center to experience daily Ugandan life. Visit Kitooro Market or Victoria Mall to browse local produce, crafts, and souvenirs.

Try fresh Tilapia fish, local snacks like Rolex (chapati rolled with eggs), or tropical fruits such as mangoes and pineapples. The friendly locals and colorful stalls give you a true taste of Uganda’s vibrant culture.

9. Visit the Entebbe Crafts Village

Located near the airport, the Entebbe Crafts Village features shops selling handcrafted jewelry, baskets, carvings, and textiles made by Ugandan artisans. It’s the perfect place to buy authentic souvenirs while supporting local craftsmanship.

10. Visit the State House Lookout & Historical Sites

Though entry to the Uganda State House (the President’s official residence) is restricted, its surrounding area offers scenic viewpoints and a glimpse into Entebbe’s colonial history. You can also visit St. John’s Church (built in 1903) or the Aero Beach Aviation Museum, which displays retired aircraft near the lake.

11. Go Cycling or Nature Walks in the Environs

Explore Entebbe’s quiet roads and lakeside trails by bicycle or on foot. Several guesthouses rent bikes, and guided cycling tours can take you through fishing villages, palm-lined paths, and viewpoints overlooking Lake Victoria.

Nature lovers can also explore Mabira Forest (a short drive away) for zip-lining and canopy walks.

Best Time to Visit Entebbe

Entebbe enjoys a mild tropical climate year-round thanks to Lake Victoria’s moderating influence. However, the best time to explore outdoor attractions is during the dry seasons:

• December to February

• June to September

Birding and photography are excellent year-round, but the wet months (March–May and October–November) bring lush greenery and migratory birds.

Entebbe Town is more than a gateway to Uganda’s safaris — it’s a destination in its own right, where nature, wildlife, and relaxation meet. From birdwatching at Mabamba to chimpanzees on Ngamba Island, from peaceful gardens to vibrant beaches, Entebbe captures the calm, welcoming spirit of the Pearl of Africa.

Whether you stay a night or a week, Entebbe invites you to slow down, breathe, and soak in the gentle rhythm of life by Lake Victoria.