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Entebbe Layover Guide (EBB)

What are you looking for in EBB?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Entebbe Airport (EBB) is an international airport located in Entebbe, Central Uganda. It’s situated about 40 km (25 miles) from Kampala, the capital city. The airport was officially opened in 1951. Kampala is Uganda’s largest city and a vibrant cultural hub. It’s known for its bustling markets, historical sites, and welcoming atmosphere. The region also offers lush greenery and access to Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, providing scenic views and recreational activities.

Can you leave Entebbe Airport (EBB) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
Most travelers can leave Entebbe Airport during a layover if they obtain a Uganda Transit Visa, valid up to 7 days. Citizens of visa-exempt countries and those staying airside under 24 hours don’t need one. A yellow fever certificate and onward ticket are required. (more info)

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Uganda Wildlife Education Centre Home to rescued wildlife, this center offers immersive experiences with lions, giraffes, rhinos, and more. Learn about conservation efforts and enjoy feeding sessions and guided tours amidst lush grounds. (Time required: 2–3 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi or moto taxi, ~10 min. / official site)
• Entebbe Botanical Gardens These historic gardens showcase indigenous and exotic flora, tranquil walkways, and scenic Lake Victoria views. Perfect for birdwatching, picnics, and photography in a serene environment maintained by Uganda’s Department of Forestry. (Time required: 1–2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi or boda taxi, ~10 min.)
• Lake Victoria Boat Cruise Enjoy a relaxing cruise on Africa’s largest lake, exploring nearby islands, spotting waterbirds and fishermen. Options include sunset cruises, fishing trips, and visits to lakeside villages for authentic cultural insight. (Time required: 1.5–2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi to jetty, ~10 min.)
• Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary Accessible by boat, this island sanctuary cares for orphaned chimpanzees rescued from illegal wildlife trade. Observe feeding sessions, learn rehabilitation techniques, and support conservation initiatives in a forest setting. (Time required: 4–5 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi to Smacks jetty ~10 min + boat ~45 min. / official site)
• Uganda Reptile Village Meet and learn about native reptiles, including crocodiles, snakes, and tortoises. Guided tours provide talks on species conservation, venom safety, and the village’s role in rescue and rehabilitation. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi, ~10 min.)
• Entebbe Main Market Bustling market selling fresh produce, artisan crafts, fabrics, and street food. Experience local commerce, sample tropical fruits like jackfruit and mango, and purchase unique Ugandan souvenirs from friendly vendors. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi, ~5 min.)
• Marina Beach Relax on sandy shores of Lake Victoria, swim, sunbathe, and enjoy beachside refreshments. The popular Marina Beach offers volleyball, boat rides, and panoramic lake vistas under swaying palms. (Time required: 1–2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi, ~5 min.)
• Entebbe Craft Village Supporting local artisans, the craft village offers handmade baskets, wood carvings, and jewelry. Browse stalls to find culturally inspired gifts, watch craftsmen at work, and engage in fair-trade shopping. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi, ~10 min.)

Things to Do in Entebbe Airport (EBB)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Karibuni Lounge, open 24/7 in the international departure area, offers comfortable seating, showers, complimentary snacks, alcoholic and soft drinks, Wi‑Fi, TVs, conference rooms, fax and telephone facilities. Walk‑in access is available (~US $15–30), and lounge has been recently expanded to include play and smoking rooms. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
Nearby hotels include Protea by Marriott Entebbe, offering onsite rooms and shuttle service. Other options near Entebbe town and along the Kampala highway cater to all budgets. Rooms provide restful stays, air‑conditioning, restaurants, and transport links—ideal for layovers or overnight stays. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
No dedicated rest area, quiet zone, or cots airside. Passengers may rest in seating areas but should guard belongings and prioritize safety. Sleeping in the terminal is possible but spartan—bringing a travel pillow or choosing a busy, monitored spot is advised.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free Wi‑Fi is available in the main departure concourse, reachable airside. Easy World internet café is located in the arrivals hall. Power outlets are available sporadically in departures. Lounge provides reliable Wi‑Fi and charging outlets for guests.

SIM/eSIM Card: Sim cards (e.g., MTN) can be purchased and registered in arrivals, often taking 30+ minutes. Passport/ID required. Providers include MTN; registration may take longer during peak times. Prices vary—expect basic data and voice packages suitable for Uganda travel. » Find out where and how to buy SIM card/eSIM in our Entebbe Airport (EBB) sim/eSim page.

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Metered airport taxis line up landside; identifiable by “Airport taxi” stripes and regulated by cooperatives. Secure and fairly priced. Booking in advance or using registered services is recommended during busy periods. Fares vary by destination but are convenient and available 24/7.

Train: No train service is available to or from Entebbe Airport. more info

Bus: Public bus/matatu services don’t pick up directly at the terminal. Travelers must walk or take a taxi to Kitooro or the bus park opposite the K Hotel in Entebbe town. Fares to Kampala are low (~5,000 UGX), but journeys involve multiple transfers. more info

Shuttle: Airport shuttle services and shared transfers are available through private operators offering door‑to‑door rides to Kampala, Entebbe, and beyond. They operate 24/7, with options for shared, group, or private vehicles. Prices vary based on destination and vehicle type.

Car rentals: Major car‑rental firms are available onsite: Hertz, Europcar, Super Shuttle, Auto Relay. Rentals can be arranged at airport counters. Ideal for travelers seeking flexible mobility in Kampala or Uganda. Booking in advance is advised; payment mostly by cash or card. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Airport parking includes short‑ and long‑term spaces landside. Phase III expansion plans include a new multi‑storey car park. Current surface lots suffice for stays but can fill during peak times. Rates and availability vary; bringing cash is advisable.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

Left‑luggage office with lockers is available in the arrivals hall. Perfect for layovers or exploring town. Rates are modest and based on duration. Secure and monitored—ideal for short‑term baggage storage. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Entebbe Airport (EBB) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks