Everyone likes to occasionally receive something for free, whether they are stingy oil tycoons, budget-conscious NGO employees, or backpacking travellers. For those with the means, Kampala offers a plethora of benefits. The top activities that you can do for free are listed below.

 Free things to do in Kampala

1. Visit the Baha’i Temple There is only one Baha’i temple on each continent, and Africa’s happens to be in Kampala. The beautiful domed cathedral sits on a hill surrounded by peaceful gardens, and since the Baha'is are such an inclusive faith, anyone is welcome to tour the grounds or enjoy a Sunday service.
2. Explore Owino Market: Located in the centre of Kampala's downtown, this post-apocalyptic market appears to have been built more out of whimsy and fragments than anything substantial. You may find practically everything in the narrow, muddy halls of this indoor/outdoor bazaar. High-end jeans? Verify. rosy boa? Verify. A feather completes the fedora. Verify. 1970s disco outfit? Select your hue. But take caution—pickpockets are common, and women are frequently harassed when they're by themselves.
3. Attend a Local Church Service: Church services in Uganda are so vibrant that it's difficult to not enjoy them, whether you consider yourself religious or not. Look for one where a significant portion of the worship involves dancing. You'll burn more calories than at Kabira Aerobics Club.
4. Visit the Parliament Building. Kampala, the capital of Uganda, is home to a number of amazing landmarks, one of which is the parliament building, which is conveniently situated on Parliament Avenue. The building requires an appointment to enter, but it's entertaining to stand in front of it and consider the decisions that will shape this fifty-year-old nation.
5. Wander around the art galleries. As Kampala's art scene flourishes, so too do the galleries, which are multiplying and getting better all the time. Check out Umoja, the Makerere gallery, Tulifanya, Afriart, MishMash, and, by the time you read this, possibly others.
6. Locate the Monuments: Kampala is home to several impressive historical markers, such as one commemorating independence, one unveiled in 2007 for the Commonwealth meeting, and one unveiled this year in honour of the country's 50th anniversary.
7. Play Football/Soccer: Kampala offers a match for all skill levels, from beginners to collegiate players. There are several pitches close to schools, and youngsters will be happy to include you in a game. Weekend pickup games featuring more committed players are also common.
8. Learn to Salsa: Lotus Mexicana and the National Theatre both provide free sessions. Go online to find the dates!
9. See the Old Taxi Park: The Old Taxi Park is the de facto throbbing heart of downtown Kampala. From above, the ubiquitous white and blue taxi vans resemble a whirl of bustling ants as they drive in and out. A few fantastic viewpoints can be located (and captured on camera).
10. Watch a sunset: Kampala is a great place to see sunsets because of all its hills. Ascend a hill, locate a viewpoint, gather with others, and enjoy a magnificent display of nature's creations.

Do you have any favourite free things I didn’t mention? Leave them in the comments!

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Bonus: Almost Free Stuff

1. Visit the Gadaffi Mosque. This is one of Kampala's greatest values for just 10,000 shillings, especially if you climb the spire and see a panoramic view of the city.
2. Travel to Jinja in a matatu. You may travel the two to three hours to Jinja, the Nile River's source, for just 5,000 shillings. Once there, there are lots of other things to do with your money, or you can just find a location on the river and spend a few hours relaxing.
3. Boda Tour of Kampala: Hop on one of the popular boda boda motorcycle taxis and take a journey around the city. Make your own inexpensively, or use an expert like Walter's Boda Boda Tours. In either case, there's no more genuine way to experience this vibrant city.