How to Enjoy Movies in Kampala: A Guide to the Best Cinemas and Snacks
What are the best cinemas in town? And what are the best snacks to sneak in or enjoy before or after the show?
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If you are looking for a fun and relaxing way to spend a few hours in Kampala, going to the movies might be the perfect option. You can escape the hustle and bustle of the city, watch the latest blockbuster or indie flick, and munch on some delicious snacks. But where should you go? What are the best cinemas in town? And what are the best snacks to sneak in or enjoy before or after the show? Don’t worry; we have you covered. Here is our guide to the best movie-going experience in Kampala.
Garden City Cinema: The Budget-Friendly Choice
This is the oldest and cheapest cinema in Kampala, located in Garden City Mall. For only 16,000 UGX, you get a ticket and a soda, and you can lounge in their simple but cosy waiting area. The cinema is basic but well-maintained and has reliable show times.
If you want to grab some snacks before or after the show, you have plenty of options in the mall. You can get some ice cream or hit the gym if you are feeling guilty. You can also shop at the Uchumi supermarket and get some candy or popcorn to sneak into the cinema. We won’t tell anyone!
The Hub Cinema: The Luxurious Choice
This is the newest and most expensive cinema in Kampala, located in Oasis Mall. It is owned by the same group as Garden City Cinema but offers a more modern and comfortable movie experience. The tickets cost 20,000 UGX, but you get a free soda. The cinema is shiny and air-conditioned and has a fancy lounge area for you to hang out before the show. The bathrooms are also stylish and clean.
The best part about this cinema is its location. It is near Nakumatt supermarket, where you can get some chocolate or chips to sneak into the cinema. But the real treat is the frozen yoghurt stand on the ground floor of the mall. It is styled after the ‘create your own fro-yo’ shops in the West, where you can choose your flavours and toppings. It is delicious, but pricey. It is worth it, though, as a pre- or post-show snack. You might even want to pay the extra shillings at The Hub just for the frozen yoghurt.
3D Cinema Magic: The Action-Packed Choice
This is the first and only 3D cinema in Kampala, located in Naalya. It opened in March 2013 and specialises in action movies. You can watch the latest hits like The Wolverine, Pacific Rim, and Man of Steel in 3D with a great sound system. The tickets are 16,000 UGX and include a free soda. The cinema is also spacious and cool.
The cinema is located in a mall, so you can also get some snacks from the nearby shops. But if you are looking for a more social movie-watching experience, you can also check out some bars and events around town that show movies on occasion. Mish Mash, The Hub (not the cinema, but the workspace), and Alliance Francaise are some of the places that screen movies or football matches from time to time.
Century Cinemax at Arena Mall: The Ultimate Movie Experience
Century Cinemax at Arena Mall in Kampala is an all-3D cinema that boasts multiple screens and the latest in HD Surround Sound System. It introduces you to the world of Dolby Atmos and 3D triple beam technology, offering a unique cinematic experience. It also boasts the largest screen in the country.
The cinema is modern, with state-of-the-art multiplexing and Dolby Sound, showing the latest movies. It’s a great place to catch the latest blockbusters like The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, Tiger 3, Butterfly Tale, The Marvels, Freelance, and Trolls Band Together.
The Arena Mall offers a variety of dining options, making it a perfect spot for a meal before or after your movie. You can also do some shopping or enjoy other entertainment options available in the mall.
Final word
Going to the movies in Kampala is a great way to have fun and relax. You have three cinemas to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. You can also enjoy some snacks before or after the show, or sneak some into the cinema. Whatever you choose, you are sure to have a good time. So go see a movie, eat all the popcorn, drink some Pepsi in a glass bottle, and enjoy the show.
What's your favourite cinema? Please leave us a comment.
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