THE URBAN GAZETTE — WEEKEND CITY GUIDE
A curated list of top experiences in Kampala, Entebbe, Jinja, Mbarara, Gulu, and Fort Portal.
- KAMPALA — The Weekend Pulse of Uganda
🌞 Saturday
Morning
Brunch at Cafesserie, Kisementi – Perfect for a slow morning with artisan coffee, pastries, and hearty brunch plates.
Craft Shopping at Buganda Road Craft Market – A colorful stop for jewelry, art, fabrics, and souvenirs.
Afternoon
Cultural Tour at Kasubi Tombs – UNESCO site offering deep insights into Buganda heritage.
Views & Cocktails at Skyz Hotel Naguru – Great for panoramic city views and relaxed afternoon drinks.
Evening
Live Music at National Theatre or The Bistro – Kampala’s weekend music culture shines with Afro-fusion, soul, and acoustic sets.
Party Trail: Kisementi → Acacia → Kololo – High-energy nightlife featuring bars, lounges, and dance spots.
🌤 Sunday
Nature Escape at Ndere Cultural Centre – Family-friendly shows in the evening, green outdoor spaces during the day.
Lakeside Dining at Speke Resort Munyonyo – Ideal for sunsets, boat rides, and serene lakeside meals.
Sunday Market at Motive – Art, thrift fashion, vinyl music, food stalls, and pop-up creative showcases.
- ENTEBBE — Lakeside Ease & Nature
🌞 Saturday
Morning
Walks at Entebbe Botanical Gardens – Quiet trails, monkeys, lush greenery; perfect for photography.
Visit Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) – Interactive encounter with wildlife in a well-curated sanctuary.
Afternoon
Lunch at Faze 3 – Iconic lakeside dining with great views and fresh meals.
Beach Day at Aero Beach or Lido Beach – For sun-seekers, jet skis, volleyball, or relaxed lounging.
Evening
Sunset Boat Cruise on Lake Victoria – Scenic twilight ride for couples and groups.
🌤 Sunday
Mabamba Shoebill Tour – One-of-a-kind birding experience accessible by canoe.
Coffee & Chill at Anna’s Corner – Cozy spot for reading, remote work, or connecting with friends.
- JINJA — Adventure Capital of East Africa
🌞 Saturday
Morning
White-water Rafting on the Nile – For adrenaline lovers (Grade 5 rapids).
Quad Biking or Horse Riding – Explore riverside villages and scenic landscapes.
Afternoon
Lunch at Jinja Sailing Club – Incredible lakeside atmosphere.
Visit the Source of the Nile – Calm boat ride to the historic point recorded by explorers.
Evening
Dinner at Jinja Nile Resort – Fantastic river views with quiet, elegant dining.
🌤 Sunday
Kayaking or Stand-up Paddle Boarding – Leisurely water activities for the calm Sunday mood.
Craft Shopping at Jinja Market – Handmade jewelry, baskets, paintings, and fabrics.
- MBARARA — The Land of Milk & Honey
🌞 Saturday
Morning
Squeeze in a Farm Tour – Many dairy farms around the city offer guided experiences and tasting.
Breakfast at Café Havana – Cozy brunch options before your day begins.
Afternoon
Nature Walk at Lake Mburo National Park – Short drive; perfect for zebras, antelopes, and guided walks.
Lunch at Igongo Cultural Centre – Traditional Ankole dishes and a museum tour.
Evening
Nightlife at Vision Empire or Agip Motel Bar – Lively music and local social scene.
🌤 Sunday
Relax at Biharwe Hill Viewpoint – Quiet scenic afternoon with spectacular valley views.
Café Stop at Oxford Inn – Great for coffee and winding down before the week starts.
- GULU — Northern Vibrance & Culture
🌞 Saturday
Morning
Visit Gulu Main Market – Fresh produce, Acholi crafts, and feel of local life.
Breakfast at Coffee Hut – Popular café with pastries, smoothies, and breakfast staples.
Afternoon
Cultural Visit to Boma Grounds – Insight into Acholi traditions, dances, and crafts.
Lunch at The Iron Donkey – Creative menu with a quiet garden setup.
Evening
Nightlife at The Roche or BJz Lounge – Northern Uganda’s top weekend party energy.
🌤 Sunday
Layibi Rocks Hike – Beginner-friendly hike with beautiful views of Gulu town.
Afternoon Chill at TAKS Art Centre – Art exhibitions, live performances, and creative workshops.
- FORT PORTAL — Tourism City of Crater Lakes
🌞 Saturday
Morning
Crater Lake Tour – Hikes around Lake Kyaninga, Lyantonde, and Nyinambuga; breathtaking scenery.
Visit Tooro Botanical Gardens – Educational and peaceful green retreat.
Afternoon
Lunch at Dutchess Hotel – Known for excellent meals and scenic gardens.
Explore Amabere Caves & Waterfall – Cultural legends + stunning natural caves.
Evening
Dinner at Gardens Restaurant – Calm setting with a wide menu selection.
🌤 Sunday
Rwenzori Mini-Trek – Not a full climb, but scenic nature trails around the foothills.
Coffee Tasting at Mountains of the Moon Coffee Shop – Specialty brews in Uganda’s coffee heartland.
