“Entebbe”, in the widely spoken local Bantu languages, means a seat/chair. Prior to Uganda becoming a British protectorate, the country used to have structured, functioning and strong Kingdoms. Central Uganda was under the biggest Buganda Kingdom.
It is said that, Entebbe area (before it got the name), was one of the places where the Buganda Kingdom chief used to sit and adjudicate legal cases. It’s from this background that the place got the name ‘Entebbe’ (the Chief’s seat).
Entebbe first became a British colonial administrative and commercial center in 1893 when Sir Gerald Portal, a colonial Commissioner, used it as a base. Since then, it has been a home and official residence to Uganda’s presidents until now.
In 1947, Entebbe International Airport, was inaugurated. The airport made Entebbe one of the most important places in the country and until now, it’s the main entry point to the Pearl of Africa.
Entebbe airport became more popular when the most daring counter-terrorism operations in the world’s history occurred in 1977. The soldiers from an elite unit of the Israeli army freed over 100 hostages following a hijacking by a group of Palestinian and German militia – Ride on Entebbe.
Entebbe has grown into a vibrant city with local markets, religious centers, landing sites, schools, hospitals, research centers, resorts, beaches, offices for major Government departments and above all, official residence to the country’s president.
The existence of such important assets of National importance, has made Entebbe one of the safest places to live, walk, tour, work, reside and establish the best resorts and hotels of all classes.
Adventure Consults conducts walking tours of Entebbe town. The guided walking tours start from the doorstep of your accommodation lasting about 2 hours (minimum), and can go up to 5 hours or full day depending on personal interests, fitness and weather.
Here are some of the popular yet less known landmarks. Guests are at liberty to cover all or pick those of key interest. A vehicle is on standby to pick you from any point in an event you feel like ending your trip and don’t want to walk anymore.
Discuss with Adventure Consults guide if you have any concerns or would like to make any adjustments.
Kigungu catholic/missionary site; This is where the first Catholic Missionaries (known as White Fathers) landed on the 17th February 1879. Ideal for those interested in religious history. A combination of Christianity, Catholicism and Islam shall be discussed. You will also learn about the Uganda martyrs.
St John’s church Entebbe: Built by the first colonial Anglican Missionaries in Entebbe (1939) and is one of the oldest buildings in the country. Learn more about Uganda’s Christianity history.
Uganda’s official residence of the president/state house; You will have a view the president’s home, which was originally colonial governor’s mansion. You can only see from outside due to restricted entry. No photography allowed, so listen to your guide for rich history.
Entebbe town: With a day time population of about 70,000 people, the old city boasts of clean streets, bars, restaurants and local markets. Walk past the old hospital, police post, post office, local shops, and banks.
The Local market: You will visit the local markets and shops, have a test of fresh fruits and vegetables. Have an experience of local shopping both new and second hand merchandise.
Rolex snack stalls: whereas the rest of the world knows Rolex as a classy watch, in Uganda, it’s a popular snack; a combination of vegetables, eggs wrapped in a chapati. Make yourself one and taste.
The freedom tree: Right next to the market, is a less known fenced off giant tree yet of significant importance to the history of Uganda’s independence. It is here that back in the 1950s, great men sat to discuss initial stages of liberating Uganda from colonial rule. Listen to the guide for very rich history!
Entebbe lakeside walk; a relaxed 2km walk along the primeval waters of the world’s second largest fresh water lake. Meet the ladies that earn a living from selling fish. Meet the locals relaxed at the beach. Have a meal at one of the first-class restaurants in the area.
After a good meal (optional), walk to the Gorilla Conservation café; This is a social enterprise of Adventure Consults’ conservation partner – Gorilla Conservation coffee. The none profit organization helps local coffee farmers living next to the Gorillas around Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Listen to an interactive talk as you enjoy your cup of coffee – saving Gorillas, one sip at a time!
You will cross the main Entebbe – Kampala Road and walk through the green side of Entebbe, see both old and new ministry offices, go past the ever-green botanical gardens and the calm Entebbe Golf course as you head back to the hotel.