Tourist Activities and What to Do Around Entebbe Town

Gracefully perched on the northern shores of Lake Victoria, Entebbe is Uganda’s serene gateway — a town where air travelers first touch African soil and where many end their safari adventures with a calm lakeside retreat. Once the seat of colonial administration, today Entebbe blends historical charm, tropical beauty, and relaxed lakefront living. Though often considered just a transit point, this quiet town is a destination in its own right, brimming with nature, culture, and adventure. From boat cruises on Lake Victoria to encounters with rescued wildlife and botanical wonders, here’s a guide to the best tourist activities and things to do around Entebbe Town.

Visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC)

Commonly known as Entebbe Zoo, the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre is one of the town’s most visited attractions. Established in the 1950s, UWEC is both a sanctuary and an educational facility, home to rescued animals representing Uganda’s rich biodiversity. Visitors can see lions, chimpanzees, giraffes, rhinos, leopards, and several bird species in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitats.

For a more immersive experience, the “Keeper for a Day” program allows visitors to participate in animal feeding, cleaning, and care alongside trained keepers. It’s an intimate way to learn about wildlife conservation and Uganda’s ongoing efforts to protect endangered species.

Explore the Entebbe Botanical Gardens

Established in 1898, the Entebbe Botanical Gardens are among the oldest in Africa, offering a peaceful sanctuary of tropical flora and exotic birdlife. Spanning over 40 hectares along the Lake Victoria shoreline, the gardens boast towering trees, colorful blooms, and gentle walking trails.

Bird enthusiasts can spot hornbills, sunbirds, and African grey parrots, while monkeys — especially vervet and colobus — leap playfully through the branches. The gardens also hold cinematic fame as one of the filming locations for the original 1940s Tarzan movie, and it’s easy to see why: the lush greenery feels almost primeval.

A guided walk through the gardens reveals medicinal plants, indigenous trees, and butterflies flitting above the lawns — a perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Take a Boat Cruise on Lake Victoria

Entebbe’s proximity to Lake Victoria, the world’s second-largest freshwater lake, makes it a perfect starting point for boat cruises and aquatic adventures. You can join a morning or sunset cruise to enjoy panoramic views of the lake’s vast expanse, visit nearby islands, or watch the golden hues of sunset reflecting on the water.

One of the most popular excursions is a boat trip to Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, about 23 kilometers offshore. The sanctuary, managed by the Chimpanzee Trust, provides a safe home for orphaned and rescued chimpanzees. Visitors can observe these intelligent primates up close, especially during feeding times, while learning about their rehabilitation and conservation.

Other islands worth visiting include Bulago Island, known for its sandy beaches and luxury lodges, and Ssese Islands, a cluster of 84 islands offering relaxation, birdwatching, and fishing adventures.

Discover the Mabamba Bay Wetland

A short drive from Entebbe leads to Mabamba Bay, one of the best birding sites in Uganda and a designated Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. Here, visitors can embark on canoe excursions through narrow papyrus channels in search of the elusive shoebill stork, a prehistoric-looking bird that has become a symbol of Ugandan birdlife.

Beyond shoebills, Mabamba is home to over 300 species of birds, including African jacanas, malachite kingfishers, and papyrus gonoleks. The early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography and bird sightings, making this excursion a must for nature enthusiasts.

Relax at Entebbe’s Beaches

Entebbe’s laid-back vibe comes alive at its Lake Victoria beaches, where locals and travelers gather to unwind. Lido Beach, one of the oldest, is known for its weekend parties and lively atmosphere, while White Sands Beach, Aero Beach, and One Love Beach offer more relaxed environments with restaurants, palm trees, and views of fishermen gliding across the water.

At sunset, the air fills with laughter, music, and the scent of grilled tilapia — a simple yet quintessential Entebbe experience.

Visit the Entebbe Crafts Village

For a taste of Uganda’s creative spirit, stop by the Entebbe Crafts Village, located along the airport road. Here, artisans display handwoven baskets, African fabrics, wood carvings, jewelry, and souvenirs that make perfect keepsakes. Chatting with local craftspeople adds a personal touch to your shopping experience and supports small-scale artists in the community.

Explore the Uganda Reptile Village

Located about 3 kilometers from Entebbe town, the Uganda Reptile Village offers an educational and exciting encounter with some of Africa’s most misunderstood creatures. The sanctuary houses over 20 reptile species, including snakes, tortoises, chameleons, crocodiles, and monitor lizards.

Knowledgeable guides explain their behavior, ecological importance, and conservation status, helping visitors appreciate the vital role these animals play in maintaining ecological balance. It’s an excellent stop for families and anyone curious about Uganda’s lesser-seen wildlife.

Enjoy the Local Culinary Scene

Entebbe’s restaurants and lakeside cafés offer a delightful mix of international and Ugandan cuisine. Don’t miss a chance to try freshly grilled tilapia, caught straight from Lake Victoria, served with matoke (plantains) or chips. Popular dining spots include Faze 3, 4 Points Lodge, and Anna’s Corner Café, known for their scenic settings and friendly service.

For a more local experience, explore small eateries and markets where you can sample rolex (a rolled chapati with eggs and vegetables) or sip Uganda’s rich locally grown coffee.

Visit the State House and Historical Sites

While the Uganda State House in Entebbe is not open to the public, visitors can admire it from the outside as a symbol of the country’s modern political history. The nearby Entebbe Golf Club, founded in 1901, is one of East Africa’s oldest and still welcomes visitors for a round of golf or a peaceful stroll through its manicured greens.

A short distance away lies St. John’s Church, a colonial-era structure that reflects the architectural style of early missionaries and administrators who once governed from Entebbe before the capital moved to Kampala.

Visit the Victoria Mall and Entebbe Markets

If you wish to mingle with locals or enjoy a modern shopping experience, Victoria Mall provides restaurants, supermarkets, souvenir shops, and banking services. For a more authentic experience, Kitooro Market offers colorful displays of tropical fruits, vegetables, crafts, and the rhythm of daily Ugandan life — a perfect spot for photography and interaction.

A Gateway to Uganda’s Natural Wonders

Entebbe is more than an arrival or departure point — it’s a microcosm of Uganda’s beauty, offering a gentle introduction or soothing conclusion to any safari. Its lakeside charm, lush gardens, and easy pace make it an ideal stopover before heading to destinations like Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, or Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

From cruising on Lake Victoria to exploring botanical gardens and birding in Mabamba Bay, Entebbe captures the peaceful soul of Uganda — a place where adventure and relaxation coexist effortlessly.