Activities
Thames Hotel Entebbe, Nearby Attractions and Things in Entebbe
With some of the most inspiring lakeside surrounding us, Thames Hotel Entebbe is the ideal destination should you wish to include activities into your plans.
Natural Attractions in Entebbe
Entebbe, Uganda, has several natural attractions. Here are more natural attractions to explore in Entebbe, Uganda
Uganda Wildlife Education Centre Entebbe, Uganda
Entebbe is the location of the Uganda Wildlife Education and Conservation Center (UWEC). The Center also serves as the national zoo.
While it functions primarily as a zoo, this centre is actually a world-class animal refuge that has benefited from international assistance in recent years.
Most of the animals on display were once injured or were recovered from poachers and traffickers. Star attractions include chimpanzees (a good alternative to pricier Ngamba Island), southern white rhinos, lions, leopards and shoebill storks. Keep an eye out for the baby elephant wandering about too.
A variety of programs gets you closer to the animals, including chimp encounters, behind-the-scenes tours and zookeeper for the day (adult/child); book your (UWEC) Entebbe Zoo tour directly through responsibletourismcompany.com
There are long-term volunteering opportunities at Uganda Wildlife Education and Conservation Center (UWEC) and the Entebbe attraction has on-site lodging.
Kitubulu Forest and Beach: Nature walks and beach relaxation with scenic views of Lake Victoria.
Entebbe is also home to the historical site in Kigungu where the first catholic missionaries Brother Amans and Father Mon Maple Lourdel landed to establish the catholic faith in Uganda.
Zika Forest: A forest where the Zika Virus was first discovered, with insect studies and nature exploration.
Entebbe Crafts Village: A marketplace featuring local handicrafts, jewelry, and art.
State House: The official residence and office of the President of Uganda.
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary Entebbe, Uganda Africa
This sanctuary in Lake Victoria is home to around 50 orphaned chimps that have been rescued from elsewhere in Uganda and are being rehabilitated as much as possible on this thickly forested island. Day trips to see the residents are superb. Plan ahead and you can join the overnight experience and a forest-walk with the chimps, who'll climb all over you. It's a 50-/90-minute speedboat or motorised canoe ride from Entebbe to get here.
Located 23 km southeast of Entebbe in Lake Victoria, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, or 'Chimp Island', is home to over 40 orphaned or rescued chimpanzees who are unable to return to the wild. Humans are confined to one of the 40 hectares while the chimps wander freely through the rest, emerging from the forest twice a day for feeding at 11am and 2.30pm. This coincides with visitor arrival times to the island, with viewings of the chimps via a raised platform.
While it can't compare to the experience of seeing chimps in the wild, especially due to the large electrified fence that separates chimp from human, it still makes for a worthwhile excursion to observe the animals' remarkable behaviour. Guides here are informative, and there are individual profiles for each chimp, detailing both their distinct personalities and history. There are also big monitor lizards in residence and abundant birdlife.
The island is a project of the Chimpanzee Sanctuary & Wildlife Conservation Trust, which arranges bookings for day trips and accommodation.
Rates are based on a minimum group of two, though one individual can go at a higher rate. It's cheaper with larger group sizes. The half-day trip includes entry, guide and boat transport. Two trips depart from Entebbe per day: in the morning at 9am, returning at 12.45pm, or departing at 12.45pm and returning by 4.45pm.
The CSWCT also offers an overnight experience (first night/additional nights US$539/185) in a self-contained, solar-powered safari tent. Rates include lodging, full board, transport, activities and entry, based on two guests. Check the website for add-on activities.
Arrive via speed boat (50 minutes) or motorised canoe (90 minutes) from the Entebbe dock. Those who arrive via their own transport must pay an entry fee (adult/child US$35/15).
Entebbe Botanical Gardens Entebbe
Entebbe Botanical Gardens: A 37-acre garden featuring stunning plants, trees, and wildlife, including monkeys and birds.
Laid out in 1898, these expansive gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll. The highlights are its pockets of thick rainforest, which locals claim some of the original Tarzan films were made in, and excellent birdwatching with 115 species (USh10,000 per guide). You'll see plenty of monkeys, including black and white colobus, and tree squirrels too.
Uganda Reptiles Village Entebbe
Get up close to some of the world's deadliest snakes, including mambas, cobras, puff adders and vipers, as well as chameleons, crocs and lizards, all of which are rescued or injured. It's around 3km off the Entebbe–Kampala road, about a 20-minute drive from Entebbe.
Ssese Islands, Kalangala, Lake Victoria Tour
Ssese Islands: An archipelago of 84 islands in Lake Victoria, perfect for island-hopping and relaxation.
Tour the eighty-four forested islands make up this archipelago, home to more primates, birds and fish than humans.
Ssese Islands White sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and palm trees make the idyllic Ssese Islands in Lake Victoria the ultimate place to catch your breath on your travels through Uganda If you’re looking for a place to slow right down, Ssese’s lush archipelago of 84 islands along Lake Victoria’s northwestern shore boasts some stunning white-sand beaches.
There’s something for everyone; quad bike, community walk, island hopping, forest walk, guided safari walk, jet ski ride, sportfishing, sunset cruise or grab a good book and relax.
There are canoes for hire, but swimming is not advised due to the risks of bilharzia.
Most Ssese Islands stays on the beach have nightly bonfires, which is a great way to relax with a few drinks after enjoying one of Ssese’s famous sunsets. Some stays also have swimming pool.
Park Shoebill Tour
Park Shoebill is a recreational center offering outdoor activities and educational programs. Located on Bussi Island, 8 Km from Nakiwogo landing site Entebbe.
Equator Entebbe (2-3 hours Boat Tour)
Equator Entebbe - Tour of the Equator line in Lake Victoria’s island From Nakiwogo Landing site It takes approximately 1 hour to get to Lake Victoria’s Lwaji Island. Lwaji Island is one of the three equator markers in Uganda. Others are found at Kayabwe in Masaka and Queen Elizabeth National Park. Visit the Equatorial Line on the Equator Entebbe Tour (Uganda) aboard the motorise engine boat in Entebbe. We will head to Info Island to visit the lookout for the different water birds such as Pelican, kingfisher, grey-headed gull, and yellow bill. We, then, will visit the Rock at Equator Entebbe.
You will also see monitor lizards, otters, and magical sunsets all its attractions to get the best picture with one. Trip to equator Entebbe at Lake Victoria. We pick you up from any hotel or guest house around Entebbe.
And it takes 20 minutes to get to the landing site where we board the boat from. We take one hour and 15 minutes to reach at sign of equator Entebbe at lwanji island in the middle of the way going Boat Trip and beautiful sunsets - Cross the equator - Visitors love the fish and Boat Ride on this lake,
A boat trip on Lake Victoria is a must do! Either take one of the fancy ones (on a speed boat) new Uganda Wildlife Education Centre - Entebbe Zoo (UWEC) or the shared one (near 2 Friends Guest house in Manyago).
Try to go on the sunset trip - the views are fabulous. Including watching the planes land at the nearby Entebbe airport. And yes, cross the equator (quite close) - keep a watch on your GPS and ensure you take a 'screenshot' to record your presence on the equator in the middle of the Lake!
About Lake Victoria - Biggest Lakes in the world
Lake Victoria: Take a boat tour, go fishing, or simply enjoy the scenic views of Africa's largest lake.
Lake Victoria is a huge lake covering 3 East Africa countries Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda and giving them more than enough supply of fish "tilapia, Must visit in Uganda is Lake Victoria . Lake Victoria is known to be the 2nd largest freshwater lake, and is the source of the White Nile River. Source of world's longest river
Mpanga Forest Reserve Uganda
About 35km out of Kampala, the 453-hectare Mpanga Forest Reserve is a decent option if you want to escape the chaos of Kampala for a day or two. It's best known for its 181 species of butterfly, while red-tailed monkeys can be seen during the day and bushbabies during guided night walks (USh20,000 per person). Most travellers visit on a day trip, but there's lodging at Mpanga Ecotourism Site.
Makanaga Wetlands, Uganda
Makanaga Wetlands (part of the larger Mabamba Wetland System) is a good place to spot shoebills. It's roughly a 60km drive from Entebbe, accessed via Kampala–Masaka Rd, taking the road down from Kamengo trading centre.
Mabamba Swamp, Lake Victoria Entebbe
Mabamba Bay Swamp: Explore the wetlands and spot the Shoebill stork on a guided tour.
Located on the northern shore of Lake Victoria, Mabamba Swamp is just 12 km west of Entebbe.
Mabamba will captivate birders and non-birders alike. The wetland is Uganda’s most important birding site, and it is home to over 300 bird species.
Mabamba is an area of immense ecological importance. In 2006, the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands awarded Mabamba Swamp the status of a ‘Wetland of International Importance’ since it contains globally threatened species.
BirdLife International recognises the Mabamba Swamp as an Important Bird Area (IBA).
A rustle in the reeds prompts you to raise your binoculars. Suddenly, the papyrus parts to reveal a mass of grey feathers. Lowering your binoculars, you come face to face with a prehistoric giant. The Shoebill stretches to showcase its 8-foot wingspan and welcomes you to its swamp.
Cultural Experiences in Entebbe
Entebbe Uganda, offers several cultural experiences. Here are some unique and immersive activities to consider / book in Entebbe, Uganda:
Bugonga Church in Entebbe
In Entebbe, Uganda, both Catholic churches and cathedrals, including Church of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary Bugonga Catholic Church, Holy City Entebbe and St. John's Church, are listed as attractions.
Specifically, Bugonga Church (Church of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary Bugonga Catholic Church) is a significant historical site, being one of the oldest Catholic churches and marking the spot where early missionaries met with Kabaka Muteesa
Kigungu Missionary Landing Site Entebbe, Uganda
Entebbe is also home to the historical site in Kigungu where the first catholic missionaries Brother Amans and Father Mon Maple Lourdel landed to establish the catholic faith in Uganda.
In 1879, two French missionaries crossed Lake Victoria and landed on the Kigungu Peninsular near Entebbe Town. They were the first Catholic missionaries to arrive in Uganda, and an annual pilgrimage still convenes at the site of their landing.
Bafrika Creationz - Art Gallery Entebbe Tour
Michael the owner is very talented and produces jaw dropping art pieces inspired by African culture and nature.
The high quality of his work reflects the fixed prices but we considered them fair - would not recommend visitors expect to haggle like in the nearby markets. Expect unique, inspirational and high quality pieces of art at a fraction of the cost in the west. Also they take a card and will wrap your piece very carefully to travel home. Writing this from the airport, the flight attendants allow travelling with it as part of hand luggage
Activities to do in Entebbe
Lake Victoria Island Cycling Tour from Entebbe
Lake Victoria: Enjoy fishing, boat cruises, canoeing, or simply relaxing by the lake shores. Be cautious of bilharzia and hippos.
Boat Tours: Take a guided tour to explore the lake and its surroundings.
Fishing: Try your hand at catching some of Lake Victoria's famous fish
Entebbe Town Tour
On the shores of gorgeous Lake Victoria, Entebbe is an attractive, verdant town that served as the capital city during the early years of the British protectorate. Today it’s the relaxed pace of life and nearby natural attractions that give the city its charm.
Beaches and Leisure
Aero Beach: A private beach with scenic views, statues, and old planes to explore, offering swimming, sunbathing, and boat cruising.
Lido Beach: A popular beach with stunning views of Lake Victoria, offering swimming, sunbathing, and boat cruising.
Land Adventures in Entebbe
Entebbe, Uganda, has several land adventures. Here are some of land adventures to explore in Entebbe, Uganda:
Entebbe Golf Club:
Entebbe is home of the Oldest Golf course in East Africa called Entebbe Golf Club which was established in 1900, with scenic views and recreational activities.
Restaurants in Entebbe
Victoria Mall: A shopping center with gift shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Faze 3 Restaurant: A restaurant serving Indian and British cuisine with outdoor seating and live music
Anna's corner 4.2 KM
Anna's Corner is located in the middle of Entebbe and is set in a beautiful garden. While listening to great music, reading one of the local papers or one of our books we offer a great variety of fantastic coffees, cakes, breakfast, pizza, pasta, burger,
Maanzo Aperitif Bar & Restaurant 1.9 KM
MAANZO Aperitif Bar and Restaurant is a unique spirits and gastronomic experience unequalled in Uganda and East Africa. It provides an uncompromising atmosphere of varied entertainment saturated with delightful culinary flavors from Africa, Asia, Caribbea
COFFEE HOUSE
Carpe Diem 5.4 KM
Our restaurant takes advantage of some of the best views over Lake Victoria and the airport in Entebbe. Watch the planes glide over the lake as the red African sun melts into the horizon behind you.
THAI
Thai Garden Restaurant 6.1 KM
Enjoy authentic Thai food with a fine dining flair. Experience the best Thai cuisine and friendly staff at this beachfront restaurant in Uganda/
O's Bar Entebbe Across from the golf course, this happening bar has outdoor decking, indoor lounge and sport on the TV.
Red Rooster Entebbe Restaurant
CUISINES: Bar, International, Pub
MEALS: Lunch, Dinner, After-hours, Drinks
FEATURES: Seating, Television, Serves Alcohol, Outdoor Seating, Private Dining, Parking Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Wine and Beer, Free Wifi, Table Service, Live Music, Jazz Bar, Sports bars
4 Points Ltd. Bar & Restaurant
The 4 Points is one of tourists favorite restaurants in Entebbe. The food is very good and the prices are reasonable.
Muti Garden Cafe and Restaurant Entebbe
Muti is a garden cafe, restaurant and guesthouse in the gateway town of Entebbe, Uganda.
The idea behind Muti is to create a contemporary African cafe in a tranquil, family friendly garden environment.
Using the best fresh local produce, our international menu offers freshly-prepared gourmet baguettes & wraps, healthy and vegetarian options, pizzas and great Ugandan coffee.CUISINES: European
SPECIAL DIETS: Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, Drinks FEATURES: Table Service, Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Parking Available, Wine and Beer, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Dog Friendly
TEAM BUILDING
If you have a dedicated team building event in mind, Muti Garden Café and Restaurant Entebbe the hotel has extensive grounds outside and equally extensive spaces inside, whatever you require.
Muti Garden Café and Restaurant Entebbe has team building Instructors partners based in Entebbe and Kampala and it has activity providers on our doorstep too.
We will manage everything for you and even bring the activities to our resort, or if that’s not possible we’ll arrange for you to get there.
Here’s just a flavour of the type of team building and activities Muti Garden Café and Restaurant Entebbe Guesthouse Entebbe can provide:
Here’s just a flavour of the type of team building and activities Thames Hotel Entebbe can provide:
- Highland Games
- Watersports
- Off Road Driving / Quad Biking
- Cycling
- Treasure Hunts
- Archery Competitions
- Zipwire Trekking
- Go Karting (off site)
Institutions Near by Thames Hotel Entebbe, Uganda
- Nkumba University Entebbe
- Entebbe International University
- University of Kisubi Entebbe
- St Mary College Kisubi
- Fisheries Training Institute Entebbe
Landmarks Near by Thames Hotel Entebbe, Uganda
- Entebbe Catholic Parish Church Bugonga
- St. Johns Church Entebbe
- Seventh-Day Adventist SDA Entebbe Central Church
- Watoto Church Entebbe
- St Marks Church Namate
- Entebbe Post Office
Museums Near by Thames Hotel Entebbe, Uganda
- Entebbe Geological Survey Museum
- Fort Lugard Museum Kampala
- Uganda National Museum Kampala
- Ssemagulu Museum Kampala
Thames Hotel Entebbe, Uganda Parks Children Parks
- Entebbe Children's Play Park
- Disney Amusement Play Park in Entebbe
- Kids Paradise Garden Bwebajja in Entebbe
- Lido Beach Entebbe
- Peniel Beach Hotel Entebbe
Shopping areas Nearby Thames Hotel Entebbe, Uganda
Markets in Entebbe
Kitooro Market Entebbe: Market is designed with modern facilities and a strategic layout to accommodate a wide range of businesses
Pearl Supermarket Entebbe: Pearl Supermarket is one of the leading and old supermarkets in Entebbe, Uganda. The store offers fresh meats, dairy produce, home merchandise in Entebbe Town.
Entebbe Juakali Centre Crafts Market: Explore Entebbe Juakali Centre's crafts, artisans, and cultural significance. Immerse yourself in Uganda's artistry.
Nakiwogo Market Entebbe: Nakiwogo Market in Entebbe is a popular local market where vendors sell a variety of goods. It's known for its fresh food and is a place where locals and tourists can experience Ugandan culture.
Abayita Ababiri Market:
Abayita Ababiri in Entebbe has grown from a small trading center into a bustling urban hub. It features supermarkets, banks, petrol stations, and schools, and is located where the new Entebbe-Kampala Highway connects with the older road.
Abayita Ababiri Market sells agricultural organic fresh produce, groceries, and traditional music
Malls in Entebbe
Entebbe, Uganda offers a variety of shopping experiences, from vibrant markets to modern malls. Here are some top recommendations:
Victoria Mall Entebbe: Love it or loathe it, mall culture has well and truly arrived in Uganda, with this shiny new complex opening in 2013.
Imperial Shopping Mall Entebbe
Located on Lugard Avenue in Entebbe, Imperial Mall is a one stop state-of-the-art shopping mall. From Banks, Cinema, Supermarkets to Boutiques & Cafes.
Airports Nearby Thames Hotel Entebbe, Uganda
- Entebbe International Airport
- Kajjansi Airfield, Route aeroport
Railway stations
Most popular cities Near by Thames Hotel Entebbe, Uganda
- Entebbe
- Kawuku
- Kisubi
- Abayita Ababiri
- Kajjansi
- Kampala
Start planning your Uganda safari tour vacation with our list of the best day trips from Entebbe by road.
The best day trips from Entebbe by road: charming town, lush forests, and friendly people
Enjoy easy day trips from Entebbe with Uganda’s Top Rated Safari Tour Operators in Uganda | Responsible Tourism Company 1 of all Uganda eco tours and explore Uganda.
