Where to stay in Uganda

Hotels

There is a broad range of hotels from budget to high-end in Uganda. More expensive, international-standard hotels and resorts can be found in Entebbe, Kampala and Jinja, and there are also some upmarket lodges in some of the country’s national parks. Some hotels also offer bandas, which are separate rooms or cottages, within the hotel complex. Cheaper hotels are found in main centres, as well as smaller towns and even villages. Since June 2013, hotels in Uganda are required to charge VAT, which meant increases of up to 18% on hotel bills throughout the country.

Bed and breakfast

There are several good bed and breakfast options in Kampala, Entebbe, Jinja and other larger towns. These are usually friendly, clean and comfortable, with en-suite bathrooms. Many also offer laundry facilities and internet.

Camping

Most national parks and major tourist spots now have organised camping sites, which are generally guarded, but campers should be well prepared and take the necessary equipment and precautions. Camping costs around $5 per person per night and $10 in the national parks.

Other accomodation

Lodges:  All of the major national parks offer accommodation in game lodges, including Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Parks. Standards vary from basic lodges to high-end luxury tented or permanent lodges with swimming pools and top-quality restaurants.

Budget hotels: These are generally basic, but clean and comfortable, often with a reasonable restaurant attached. Many have ensuite bathrooms, running hot and cold water and mosquito nets. Rooms will have a fan, but won’t always have air-conditioning.

Guesthouses: Generally catering to local customers, guesthouse standards vary from moderate to very basic accommodation in cell-like rooms around a central courtyard, with shared bathroom facilities. This is the option for shoestring travellers, with rooms from US$5-10 for a double. Newer properties are likely to be cleaner and better run.

Youth hostels: There is an international youth hostel in Kampala in Namirembe which can accommodate up to 100 people. There’s a common room with TV and the hostel offers tourist information and can book tours to national parks.

Backpacker hostels: There are several backpacker hostels in Kampala, Entebbe and Jinja, with many able to arrange adventure activities, travel and tours to major attractions and national parks within Uganda.