Accommodation in Kampala need not cost you an arm and leg, be it in the heart of the city or in its suburbs, there is plenty of good affordable places. There are no peak seasons and therefore no need to worry about lack of good budget space. The only notable exception is when the city is hosting big global conferences.
Generally, you should always be able to secure something nice. Seasons such as Christmas can come with unpredictable rates. Some hoteliers reduce rates to cash in on visiting foreigners running way from winter and occasional returning Ugandans. Likewise, other hoteliers may hike rates to cash in on the sudden rise in number of guests. However, other than holiday season, you’ll find rates in Kampala remain fairly consistent.
City centre
Havana hotel: is located in the city in what can be called lower Old Kampala just close to the New Taxi Park (now under renovation). It has wall-to-wall carpeted air-conditioned rooms. There are international channels to watch on television besides other facilities for email, Internet and the minibar. Its location is within access of shopping malls, banks and other facilities.
There is a wide range menu of Indian, Tandoori, continental dishes and African cuisine. There is a bakery should you opt for something that feels home made. Internet, email and fax services are available. The venue also plays host to wedding receptions and private parties. Double rooms ($60), single ($55), double self-contained ($60), single self-contained ($50), double non self-contained ($45) and single non self-contained is at ($40).
City suburbs
Aminaz Garden Place is in Kololo, one of Kampala’s upscale suburbs. It is within walking distance from Kampala Golf Club. Here, there are eight spacious and private rooms with garden views. Executive single air conditioned rooms are at $65 and double ones at $85. Other single rooms are at $55 and double at $75. An extra bed is on offer at $20.
Aminaz has a garden restaurant, which serves both continental and local dishes. Other facilities include Internet, telephone and fax services. Laundry services are available at a charge. Breakfast is served in the dining hall from 7.30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Dinner and lunch are served at an extra charge. Lunch time: 1:30 am to 2:30 pm and Dinnertime: 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Namirembe Guest House: Dubbed, “A million dollar view” by a visiting American guest, Herberta Smith, management went on to adopt this as its slogan. It is within a walking distance of many places of interest such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Kabaka’s Palace, Kasubi Tombs and several shopping centres.
The Golf Course and the National Museum are 10 minutes’ drive away. Conference rooms range from 50 to 100 seats. Other services include laundry and dry cleaning, guided tours, car hire, rentals and transport to the airport. Salon services include facial and body massage, hair styling and braiding, manicure and pedicure. Rooms include single ($30), standard single ($45), standard twin ($55), double ($50) and family room ($70). Contact Tel. 041 273778, (0)772 434506, Fax. 0414 273904, e-mail: ngh@utlonline.co.ug
Diplomate Hotel: located at Muyenga tank hill road, the hotel has a scenic view of Kampala. The view is even better at night with several lights making it look like a huge Christmas decoration. It is one of those hotels that have stood a test of time should you want to know its history. In pursuit of a nice view of the city, from a vantage point, this is just the place. Accommodation includes standard single and double rooms at $45 and $55 while twin rooms are at $65. Contact: +256-312-262858 / 9.
You may also consider Minister’s Village Hotel, Backpackers Hostel Red Chilli Hideaway, Bencathy Hotel, Ntinda Close Motel, Buziga country resort and The College Inn.
Most hotel rates are non-negotiable but when you book in advance or as a group, you may have a discount. An Internet search for more information on hotels is always a must. You can check on the hotel’s history for issues to do with security, noisy neighourhoods and extra unexplained costs before booking. Those with children should also check to see which ages are offered free space or lower rates. And remember, if you’re off to enjoy Kampala’s legendary nightlife, always ask if the hotel is easily accessible in the wee hours of the morning. Enjoy your stay.
