Kampala

Description

Kampala is the capital and largest city of Uganda, sitting on the northern shores of Lake Victoria and historically known as the “City of Seven Hills.” It is administered by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) which manages city planning, services and development.

Kampala grew from a collection of hills and settlements into the nation’s political, commercial and cultural centre during the colonial era and after independence. Many of today’s administrative structures and landmarks date to the 20th century.

Geography & Neighborhoods

Kampala sits at roughly 1,200–1,300 m above sea level on rolling hills north of Lake Victoria. Prominent neighbourhoods include the Central Business District (CBD), Nakasero, Kololo, Makerere, Ntinda, Kabalagala, Namuwongo, and Old Kampala — each with distinct residential, commercial or institutional characters.

Economy & Key Industries

Kampala is Uganda’s economic hub: finance, wholesale/retail (markets like Owino), hospitality and services dominate. The city hosts major banks, corporate offices, central markets, ministries and many NGOs and international agencies. Tourism, retail, real estate development and informal trade are major contributors to the city economy.

Transport & Connectivity

• Air: The nearest international airport is Entebbe International Airport, ~40–46 km from Kampala by road; travel time typically ~1–1.5 hours depending on traffic.
• Roads & public transport: Kampala has a dense road network, matatu/minibus services, boda-boda (motorcycle taxis) and app-based taxis; traffic congestion is a major daily issue. KCCA runs road and traffic projects to improve flow.

Education & Research

Kampala hosts Uganda’s major higher-education and research institutions, most notably Makerere University, one of East Africa’s oldest and largest universities (wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes). Many colleges, international schools and vocational institutes are also in the city.

Health Services

Kampala is the location of Uganda’s largest public referral and teaching hospital, Mulago National Referral (Mulago National Specialised) Hospital, plus several private hospitals and clinics that serve Kampala and national referral functions.

Culture, Tourism & Attractions

Top visitor spots in/near Kampala include: Gaddafi National Mosque (Old Kampala), Kasubi Tombs (historic royal burial site, UNESCO-affiliated site), Baha’i Temple, Uganda Museum, Kabaka’s Palace sites, major markets, and vibrant nightlife/eating districts. Uganda Tourism Board lists Kampala as a common start/end point for national itineraries.

Climate & Best Time to Visit

Kampala has a warm, humid equatorial climate with two rainy seasons (typically March–May and September–November). Average annual temperatures roughly range from about 16–28°C (62–82°F); rainfall and humidity are substantial; dry season months (June–August) are often considered the best for travel. For month-by-month climate data consult climate summaries like WeatherSpark or Climate-Data.

Safety & Public Health

• Kampala is generally safe for visitors but, like many large cities, has petty crime (pickpocketing, snatch theft); normal urban precautions apply.
• Health: Kampala’s major hospitals and clinics provide emergency care, but travellers should check current public-health alerts.