16 Feb What can I do in Entebbe?
If you’re a traveller flying into Uganda, then you’ll probably be familiar with Entebbe as the home of the country’s international airport. It would be a shame to see it just as a stop-off point, though. That’s because it’s a destination that’s well worth exploring on its own terms, although life is conducted at a more relaxed pace than in Kampala. There is lots to see and do – and not least is Entebbe Botanical Gardens.
What is there to see at Entebbe Botanical Gardens?
Entebbe Botanical Gardens offer the chance to relax, walk, and enjoy a truly stunning landscape. It has been described as the ideal introduction to the Pearl of Africa (the nickname that Winston Churchill gave to Uganda) and it’s difficult to disagree.
Set on the shores of beautiful Lake Victoria and located just a short distance from the airport, these stunning gardens and woodlands are home to 115 species of birds and several primates. Wander through the lush tropical scenery and see if you can spot a squirrel, black and white colobus or a vervet monkey.
(Rumour even has it that the first black and white Tarzan films were shot here.)
First laid out in the late 19th century, the gardens also feature unusual plants, trees and butterflies. Many people choose to incorporate a visit on the first or last day of their holiday – and we think that it’s well worth the diversion.
Birdwatching in Entebbe
There is a fantastic array of birds to be seen at Entebbe Botanical gardens, as well as other places around Entebbe too.
Lutembe Bay birding can be done by both boat and walking on the shores. Birds that can be found here include Black Heron, Papyrus Gonolek, Black Shouldered Nightjar, Wattled Starling, Rufous Bellied Heron, Little Stint, Marsh Sandpiper, Blue-Headed Coucal, Purple Heron, Intermediate Egret, Black Coucal, African Moustached Warbler.
Bird species at Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre include Pectoral Sandpiper, Ringed plover, Black Headed Gonolek, Grey Capped Warbler, Icterine Warbler, Spectacled Weaver, Rufous Bellied Heron, Tawny Flanked Prinia, Giant Kingfisher, Ruff, Northern Crombec, Orange Weaver.
To make the most of your experience, you may want to pack a pair of binoculars. An experienced local guide will also prove an invaluable source of expertise.
Entebbe Wildlife Education Centre
Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) – formerly Entebbe Zoo – is home to a wide variety of Uganda’s wildlife, including chimpanzees, lions and giraffes, and offers visitors a range of one-of-a-kind, behind-the-scenes experiences.
Originally established as a centre for wild animals who were sick, orphaned or confiscated from illegal trade, the centre’s primary purpose is now providing world class conservation education. It also offers a selection of affordable accommodation options.
Enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Victoria
Boating across Lake Victoria is a must-do activity for visitors to Uganda and setting off from Entebbe is a perfect opportunity to head out towards the Equator line or head out to a local island. Watch the sun set over the horizon and see fishermen cast their nets, all while enjoying snacks and drinks provided on board.
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary is accessible by boat from Entebbe and is home to orphaned chimpanzees rescued throughout Uganda.
Other activities available at Entebbe
- See how fishing boats are made by local craftsmen
- Enjoy birding at various locations in and around Entebbe, which includes forest, open water, swamp and woodland
- Uganda Reptile Village
- Craft shops and open-air markets
- A spot of relaxation with swimming and spa treatments in one of Entebbe’s lovely hotels (which also allows clients to freshen up before flying home if it’s on their last day)
We can include an Entebbe attraction as part of our tailor-made holidays in Uganda. If you would like to make an enquiry, simply complete our enquiry form or email us at enquiries@ventureuganda.org