One of Kampala's premier sights, the prominent National Mosque (widely known as the Gadaffi Mosque) was begun by Idi Amin in 1972 but only completed in 2007 with a donation from Colonel Gadaffi. The hour-long tour allows you to scale its soaring minaret for the best views of Kampala, and takes you within its gleaming interior. Free entry for Muslims.
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
1.05 MILES
Built in 1922, this small palace is the former home of the king of Buganda, though it has remained empty since 1966 when Prime Minister Milton Obote…
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
29.46 MILES
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…
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
29.43 MILES
Located 23km southeast of Entebbe in Lake Victoria, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, or 'Chimp Island', is home to over 40 orphaned or rescued…
Uganda Wildlife Education Centre
18.9 MILES
While it functions primarily as a zoo, this centre is actually a world-class animal refuge that has benefited from international assistance in recent…
5.42 MILES
This centre for Ugandan contemporary artists includes exhibit space, a library, workspace and resource centre. It is in the process of moving to a nearby…
1.44 MILES
The Unesco World Heritage–listed Kasubi Tombs are of great significance to the Buganda kingdom as the burial place of its kings and royal family. The huge…
16.12 MILES
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…
2.61 MILES
This classy little gallery features works by serious local artists. Downstairs has changing monthly exhibits, while upstairs is a permanent collection,…
Nearby Kampala attractions
0.62 MILES
This huge domed Anglican cathedral, finished in 1919, has a distinct Mediterranean feel. In years past the congregation was called to worship by the…
0.62 MILES
Just down from Namirembe Cathedral, this small-scale gallery sells quality paintings by local artists at affordable prices.
0.78 MILES
Right in the city centre, this temple has elaborate towers and a swastika-emblazoned gate. Peek inside to see the unexpected dome.
0.8 MILES
A great place to learn about the history and culture of the Buganda Kingdom; guided tours take you inside the parliament building, providing interesting…
0.86 MILES
Established by the Ugandan Culture Centre in 1964, Nommo is a reliable spot for quality artwork.
0.93 MILES
Small, but definitely worth a visit, with fascinating monthly exhibitions; check the website for events. There are also some cool sculptures on the…
1.05 MILES
Built in 1922, this small palace is the former home of the king of Buganda, though it has remained empty since 1966 when Prime Minister Milton Obote…
1.33 MILES
Open to the public, a visit to parliament is an interesting way to spend an hour or two. You can either tour the building or see the government in action …