Lost in Kampala: Finding Your Way Through Iconic Landmarks

Kampala is a city where visitors often get lost. I was one of them. The roads are winding and confusing. The best way to start building your mental map is to identify some key landmarks. They are well-known by boda boda and taxi drivers, so you can ask them for directions. If you can find a landmark near where you want to go, you have a better chance of figuring out the rest! Additionally, Kampala is known for its bustling markets and vibrant street life, which can further add to the confusion for first-time visitors. However, embracing the chaos and immersing yourself in the local culture can also be an exciting adventure.

 

Central Kampala

Crested Towers:These two large buildings with blue facades are among the most distinctive landmarks in Kampala. They are located near Garden City and Parliament, opposite the Serena Hotel, and within easy reach of downtown, Nakasero Hill, and Kololo.

Garden City:This is not only a landmark but also a popular destination for many people. It was the first enclosed mall in Kampala. Now it has to compete with Oasis Mall, which is right next to it, and a few others.

Parliament: The tall tower on the Parliament building in Uganda makes it easy to spot from afar. It is appropriately situated on Parliament Avenue, which crosses Kampala Road at Nando’s.

Nando’s: This used to be an oasis of western-style food, but now it has more rivals in its niche. However, its location at the corner of Kampala Road and Parliament Avenue makes it a useful reference point.
The Gaddafi Mosque:The Gaddafi Mosque, also known as the National Mosque of Uganda, is one of the largest mosques in Africa. Its towering minarets and golden dome add a touch of grandeur to the cityscape. The mosque's strategic location on top of a hill allows it to be visible from various vantage points, making it a prominent landmark in Kampala.

Old Taxi Park:This is not very visible from a distance, but its location in the heart of downtown Kampala and its importance for cheap transportation make it a great place to know. Old Taxi Park is a bustling hub where thousands of taxis and minibuses converge, providing an essential mode of transportation for both locals and tourists. The park's central location also makes it a convenient starting point for exploring the city's attractions and markets, offering a glimpse into the vibrant energy of Kampala's urban life. 

Clock Tower: This intersection has a huge clock tower, as its name suggests. It connects Kampala/Entebbe Road with the road leading to Kibuli and Nsambya.

Nakasero Market: Nakasero Market is a bustling and vibrant marketplace that offers a wide variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious street food. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking to immerse themselves in the authentic sights, sounds, and flavours of Kampala's vibrant culture. 
 

Northeast Kampala

Kabira Country Club: This exclusive club is located on Kira Road in Bukoto, between Lugogo Bypass and Kololo.
Kisimenti Mall: This is a large parking lot with supermarkets, bars, and restaurants around it. It is at the base of Kololo Hill, near Kira Road.
Lugogo Mall and Forest Mall: These outdoor malls have stores like Game and Shoprite, as well as branches of most major banks. They are on the corner of Jinja Road and Lugogo Bypass.

Southeast Kampala

US Embassy: This is a secure compound with marines and lawns. It is on Gaba Road, on the far edge of Nsambya from town. It is close to Kabalagala, Muyenga, and Kansanga.

Italian Supermarket: This is a supermarket on the top of the hill, on the way from Kabalagala to Muyenga. It is near the International Hospital and Little Donkey Mexican Restaurant. If you turn right around the supermarket, you will enter Muyenga proper.
 

East Kampala

Industrial Area: This district of warehouses, reminiscent of Dickensian times, lies along Old Port Bell Road between Town, Bugolobi, and Namuwongo.
Bugolobi Shell: This popular petrol station is located on the edge of Bugolobi, near Old Port Bell Road. It faces Jazz Supermarket and Hotel Le Bouganviller and has a cosy Italian restaurant next to them.

Makerere University Business School (MUBS): Also known as 'moobs', MUBS is a short distance from Jinja Road in Nakawa. It is close to Lugogo, Bugolobi, and Naguru.

Spear Motors: This showroom displays Mercedes and other luxury car brands. It is a prominent landmark at an intersection on Jinja Road, halfway between town and Kireka. One of the roads leads to Ntinda.

Namboole Stadium: This stadium is the hub of Ugandan professional sports. It is situated on Jinja Road between Kireka and Bweogerere (try saying that out loud). You will see it on your way to Mukono or Jinja.