Things to do and see in Entebbe
Sitting on a peninsula surrounded by Lake Victoria less than an hour’s drive south of Kampala, Entebbe is a pleasant town of 80,000 inhabitants. Once the capital of Uganda during British colonial rule, the town continues to host the official residence of the president, a small number of ministries, and United Nations missions. Entebbe is often the first town in Uganda visitors see since it is also where the international airport (‘EBB’) is located.
Top Places & things to See and Do in Entebbe
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Visit the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre
Set on the shores of Lake Victoria this former zoo boasts of a wide variety of indigenous wildlife housed in natural settings. Lions, rhinos, giraffes, birds, and much more is spread out over a large area with beautiful walkways. Entrance fees go to support the maintenance of the centre as well as animal conservation efforts throughout the country. A small restaurant serves simple local dishes.
Learn more about Entebbe Wildlife Education Centre
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Visit the Uganda Reptile Village
An African rock python, three-horned chameleon, and forest cobra are just a few of the many species of fascinating reptiles you can find at the Uganda Reptile Village on the edge of a village just north of Entebbe. Founded and run by a local boat captain with a vision, the “snake park” makes for a fun and educational visit.
Learn more about the Uganda Reptile Village in Entebbe
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Visit the Ngamba Island – ” The Chimpanzee Sanctuary”
Situated on a small rainforested island a short boat ride from Entebbe, this sanctuary provides the perfect habitat for the rehabilitation of chimpanzees. Some of the rescued chimps are orphans and others were born into captivity without the required skills to make it on their own. The sanctuary staff care for the lovable apes and, in time, attempt to reintroduce them into wild populations. Day and overnight trips to this amazing experience can be organized. Just ask us about the options when booking your tour.
Interested in Ngamba Island? Read: Ngamba Island – “The Chimpanzee Haven”ings to Do and See in Entebbe
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Visit the Entebbe Botanical Gardens
Located on 40 lakeside hectares (98 acres), the Entebbe Botanical Garden is an excellent place to relax and observe nature. Visitors are given the chance to see a wide variety of flora endemic to Uganda and other tropical climates. Bird watchers will marvel at the sounds and sights of so many species. And several monkey families also call the garden home. This is a lovely place to spend a few hours or even enjoy a picnic on the peaceful grounds – making it one of the things to Do and see in Entebbe.
Learn More about the Entebbe Botanical Gardens.
- Enjoy a Sunset Cruise on Lake Victoria
Lake Victoria is one of the largest lakes in the world. Why not go on a late afternoon boat cruise among small islands on your way towards the equator line as you view the sunset towards the horizon? Watch the fishermen cast their nets and enjoy the snacks and drinks provided on board.
If you are an avid bird watcher and have a bit more time we can also incorporate a visit to the Mabamba papyrus swamp area – home to several pairs of the rare shoebill stork. As well as the possibility of seeing these elusive birds, there is an abundance of other water birds, wildlife such as otters, and much more to view amongst the tranquil waters of this area.
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Wine & Dine in Entebbe Things to Do and See in Entebbe
Entebbe has a variety of restaurants to choose from – some like Faze 3(only 05 minutes to Entebbe Airport), 2 friends beachside restaurant & Bar, Goretti’s Pizzeria, Bar and Grill, Beach Island Cafe, and Thai Garden Restaurant all located along the beachside of the famous Lake Victoria – after you order have patience – enjoy a drink as the food comes.
Read More about The Best Places to Wine & Dine In Entebbe.
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Indulge in Shoebill Tracking in Mabamba
Mabamba Swamp – a short trip from Entebbe is a very popular day trip through African villages to Mabamba Swamp – one of the best places in Uganda to see the Shoebill Stork and other water birds.
For the indent birders, we can arrange a boat trip right from Entebbe that takes you through the swamp – there will be lots of birds to spot en route.
And for our friends that want to burn some calories cycling through the villages to Mabamba, we also got something for you. See Our Daily departures for the popular Half Day Shoebill tracking Tour Starting in Entebbe for as low as $55per person.
- Visit the Equator in Entebbe
While most visitors to Uganda might only have read and learned about the equator crossing sign often seen if you are on a Uganda Safari heading west into Popular Safari parks like Lake Mburo, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Kibale Forest). There is an opportunity for one to also visit the Equator while in Entebbe. The equator in Entebbe crosses through lake victoria and there is a sign erected on Lwaji Island where you can have a photo of yours taken.
Readers Digest: While the visit can be arranged as a stand-alone activity, we recommend that you book it as a combo with any one or two Lake Victoria activities such that you can do more and yet save money.
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