Uganda has always been on my travel wish list. As Kenya’s neighbor, I often heard people call it “The Pearl of Africa,” and I wanted to understand why. What made Uganda so special? What did travelers see, feel, and experience there?
That curiosity finally pushed me to book a trip. What followed was a one-week journey filled with nature, culture, warm people, and unforgettable memories.
Uganda is a landlocked country in East Africa known for its green landscapes, rich traditions, and friendly people. From the moment you arrive, you feel welcome. Uganda doesn’t just look beautiful, it feels like home.
One interesting thing about Uganda is its leadership system. The country has both a president and a cultural king, known as the Kabaka. This shows how Uganda respects both modern government and traditional leadership.
Journey from Kenya to Uganda
On 23rd December 2025, I traveled from Kenya to Uganda for a one-week stay. I flew with Safarilink and booked a return ticket costing USD 330.
The journey started at Wilson Airport in Nairobi. We flew to Kisumu International Airport, where we stopped for about 45 minutes to clear immigration. After that, we boarded the same aircraft for a 50-minute flight to Entebbe. The process was smooth, well organized, and stress-free.
Arrival in Entebbe & Currency Exchange
We landed at Entebbe International Airport, which sits beautifully along the shores of Lake Victoria. There are several currency exchange bureaus at the airport.
Although you can exchange money directly into Ugandan shillings, I first changed mine into US dollars, as the exchange rate was better.
Where to Stay in Entebbe: MUTI Café & Restaurant
For my first two nights, I stayed at MUTI Café & Restaurant, paying USD 160 for two nights.
MUTI Café is eco-friendly and surrounded by greenery. It is perfect for travelers who love quiet spaces and nature. The gardens are peaceful and help you slow down after travel.
The food was fresh and delicious, and the staff were warm and welcoming. The stay felt personal, calm, and relaxing.
Ugandan Culture, People & Town Life
Ugandan culture is simple, calm, and community-focused. People are friendly and genuinely welcoming.
The most common means of transport are:
- Boda bodas (motorbikes)
- Shared taxis (matatus)
Uber is available but more expensive than in Kenya, so many people prefer boda bodas.
Ugandan food is rich and filling. Breakfast is usually a full meal called katogo, made with matoke cooked with meat or vegetables. I also tried roasted grasshopper (senene), a popular seasonal snack.
Fruits in Uganda are very affordable. Mangoes and passion fruits sell for as little as 5 Kenyan shillings, and the pineapples are incredibly sweet with no sour taste.
Christmas in Nature: Nkima Forest Lodge
On 25th and 26th December, my cousin and I spent Christmas at Nkima Forest Lodge.
We took a 45-minute boat ride from Nakiwogo Market across Lake Victoria, which slowly introduced us to the peaceful forest environment.
The lodge offers:
- Guided forest walks
- Leisure games
- Sunset viewpoints
- An infinity pool ideal for yoga
- Cozy bonfire evenings
The cottages blend beautifully with nature. It rained throughout our stay, and the sound of rain made the experience even more peaceful.
One unforgettable moment was seeing a black snake near the lodge. The staff explained that it was non-poisonous, which challenged my long-held belief that all snakes are dangerous.
Exploring Kampala: City Energy & Nightlife
After Nkima, we traveled to Kampala, Uganda’s capital city. Kampala is busy and vibrant, similar to Nairobi, but slightly smaller.
Motorbikes dominate city transport, making movement fast and flexible.
Kampala’s nightlife is energetic and lively. While Nairobi starts winding down around midnight, Kampala’s nightlife comes alive after midnight. Most of the music is in Luganda, giving the experience a strong local feel.
We stayed in an Airbnb, paying about KES 4,000 per night, and spent two exciting days exploring the city before returning to Entebbe for my flight home.
Final Thoughts: Why Uganda Is the Pearl of Africa
This trip was truly eye-opening. From peaceful forest retreats and eco-friendly stays to lively city nights and rich local food, Uganda offered a deep and meaningful travel experience.
If you are looking for a destination that combines nature, culture, warmth, and adventure, Uganda is the perfect place to visit. It is easy to see why it is proudly called The Pearl of Africa.
I hope this article inspires you to explore Uganda for yourself. For more travel stories, guides, and tips, feel free to reach out to Travel Moran.
