Getting there
HOW TO GET TO NGAMBA ISLAND, UGANDA
Travel from Kampala to Entebbe
By Road:
- Private Car or Taxi: The drive from Kampala to Entebbe takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Public Transport: You can take a matatu (shared taxi) or a bus from Kampala to Entebbe. These are readily available and relatively inexpensive.
From Entebbe to Ngamba Island
Boat Ride:
- Speedboat: This is the fastest option, taking approximately 45-50 minutes.
- Traditional Motorized Canoe: A more leisurely option, taking about 90 minutes.
Getting around
GETTING AROUND NGAMBA ISLAND, UGANDA
Ngamba Island is relatively small, making it easy to explore on foot. Here are some tips on how to move around the island:
Walking
Footpaths:
- The island has well-maintained footpaths that connect various parts of the sanctuary, including the chimpanzee viewing areas, visitor center, and accommodation facilities.
Guided Tours:
- Most visitors opt for guided tours, which are highly recommended. The guides are knowledgeable about the island’s wildlife and can provide valuable insights and information.
Accommodation
ENTEBBE ACCOMMODATION AND WHERE TO STAY IN ENTEBBE, UGANDA - CENTRAL REGION
HOTELS AND RESORTS IN ENTEBBE, UGANDA
Airport Side Hotel Entebbe,
Mapeera Lane, Entebbe
Washarika Boutique Hotel,
Kisalu Rd, Entebbe
Santa Maria Health Resort
Uringi Cres Rd, Entebbe
El Amo Lakeview Villa,
Entebbe
Sundiata beach resort,
Buwaya entebbe, Kampala
Betty Ethiopian Hotel,
Buku Rd, Entebbe
Migingo Suites Entebbe,
Kiwafu Rd, Entebbe
Hotel Royal Nest,
Kateregga Road, Entebbe
Lake Point Villa,
Research Rd, Entebbe
The Boma Hotel,
Gowers Road, Entebbe
Rosemary Courts,
Mugwanya Rd, Entebbe
Jacmel Hotel,
Kiwafu Rd, Entebbe
Skyway Hotel
Mugula Rd, Entebbe
LODGES IN ENTEBBE, UGANDA
Pelican Lodge and Marina,
Ssebugwawo road, Entebbe
Nkima Forest Lodge,
Ziba
Mabamba Lodge,
Mabamba
Tilapia Lodge,
Lulongo, Buwaya, Entebbe
Buvi Lodge,
Busambaga Road, Buvi
COTTAGES IN ENTEBBE, UGANDA
Prestige Resort Cottages,
Entebbe
Dream Jet Cottages,
Uringi Cres Rd, Entebbe
BED AND BREAKFAST ENTEBBE, UGANDA
Anna's Bed and Breakfast
3 Combe Rd, Entebbe
Aivilo Home,
Gerald Musoke Road, Entebbe
Oslo Gardens,
Entebbe
GUESTHOUSES IN ENTEBBE, UGANDA
Gorilla Africa Guest House - Entebbe, Uganda
14 Jinja Rd, Entebbe
Airport link Guesthouse Entebbe
Buwaya Rise, Entebbe
Cycad Entebbe Guest House,
53 Church Rd, Entebbe
Lake Victoria Country Home
Research Rd, Entebbe
Carpe Diem Guesthouse,
Entebbe
Blue Monkey Guest House
Buwaya, Entebbe
Plastic Bottles House,
Kasanje Rd, Lulongo
Airport Guesthouse,
Mugula Rd, Entebbe
Mission Guest House,
Buku Rd, Entebbe
The Hive Guesthouse,
Njeru Walk, Entebbe
Secrets Guest House,
Kyanvubu Rd, Entebbe
The Guinea Fowl,
9 Mugula Rd, Entebbe
The House Entebbe,
Bishop Close, Entebbe
CAMPING SITES IN ENTEBBE, UGANDA
Ngamba Island Tented Camp
Entebbe
Hummingbird Camp,
Edna Rd, Entebbe
APARTMENTS IN ENTEBBE, UGANDA
The Abode Apartments Entebbe,
Alice Reef Rd, Entebbe
Rose Garden House,
Entebbe
RESTAURANTS IN ENTEBBE, UGANDA
Nepalaya Restaurant and Bar, Entebbe (A multi cuisine Restaurant)
Kalungi Aangan Guest House/Restaurant & Bar
New African Village Bar And Restaurant
Middle East Restaurant & Cafe Entebbe
Betty Ethiopian Restaurant and Inn
Imperial Carnival restaurant (beach)
Goretti's Pizzeria And Bar Entebbe
Hope's Kitchen Restaurant and Bar
Ma's Top View Restaurant & Bar
4 Points Bar and Restaurant Ltd
Signature Restaurant anc Cafe
New Four Turkeys Restaurant
Sabano Cravings Restaurant
F$Jolel corner Restaurant
Ponnus restaurant Entebbe
The Rolex Guy Entebbe
Hinriksh restaurant Bar
Palms Beach Restaurant
Country Bar Restaurant
Tilly's Ribshack & Bar
Hot & Cold Resturant
Homely Restaurant
Dinners Restaurant
Emiboozi Restrobar
Nabta Restaurant
Tides Restaurant
Trafyz Delights
One9 Lounge
Rooftop at K
Cafe Jambo
Carpe Diem
Cafe Tenda
DM's Café
Café Javas
Faze 3
What to bring
WHAT TO BRING TO NGAMBA ISLAND, UGANDA
Clothing and Footwear
- Lightweight, Breathable Clothing: The weather can be warm, so pack light and comfortable clothes.
- Long-sleeved Shirts and Pants: These help protect against insects and sun exposure.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so sturdy and comfortable shoes are a must.
- Hat and Sunglasses: To protect yourself from the sun.
Personal Items
- Sunscreen: High SPF to protect against sunburn.
- Insect Repellent: Essential for keeping mosquitoes and other insects at bay.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities.
- Personal Medications: Bring any necessary medications you might need.
Gear and Accessories
- Camera: To capture the beautiful wildlife and scenery.
- Binoculars: Great for bird watching and spotting distant wildlife.
- Backpack: A small daypack to carry your essentials while exploring the island.
Miscellaneous
- Rain Gear: A lightweight rain jacket or poncho, especially if you’re visiting during the rainy season.
- Snacks: While meals are usually provided, having some snacks can be handy.
Accommodation Essentials (if staying overnight)
- Toiletries: Basic toiletries like toothbrush, toothpaste, and soap.
- Comfort Items: Anything that makes your stay more comfortable, like a travel pillow or a book.
Climate and when to visit
CLIMATE OF NGAMBA ISLAND, UGANDA
Ngamba Island experiences a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by warm temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year. Here are the key features of the island’s climate:
- Temperature: The island enjoys warm temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The warmest months are usually January and February.
- Rainfall: Ngamba Island receives substantial rainfall, with two main rainy seasons:
- Long Rainy Season: From March to May, with April being the wettest month.
- Short Rainy Season: From October to December.
- Dry Seasons: The island experiences two dry seasons:
- First Dry Season: From June to August.
- Second Dry Season: From December to February.
WHEN TO VISIT NGAMBA ISLAND
Best Time to Visit Ngamba Island
The best time to visit Ngamba Island is during the dry seasons when the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing:
- June to August: This period is ideal for visiting as the weather is cooler and drier, making it easier to explore the island and participate in activities like chimpanzee feeding sessions and bird watching.
- December to February: Another excellent time to visit, with warm and dry conditions perfect for enjoying the island’s natural beauty and wildlife.
ACTIVITIES AND WILDLIFE VIEWING
During the dry seasons, the island’s trails are more accessible, and the chances of rain disrupting your plans are minimal. This makes it an ideal time for:
- Chimpanzee Viewing: Participate in the twice-daily feeding sessions and observe the chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
- Bird Watching: With over 120 bird species, the dry seasons offer optimal conditions for spotting a variety of birds.
- Nature Walks: Explore the island’s diverse flora and fauna without the hindrance of muddy trails.
TIPS FOR VISITING
- Book in Advance: Ensure you book your trip and accommodations in advance, especially during the peak dry seasons.
- Pack Accordingly: Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera to capture the stunning wildlife and scenery.
