Affordable Accommodation in Entebbe

Finding Affordable Accommodation in Entebbe, Uganda

A Brief Introduction to Entebbe

Entebbe is a town located in Central Uganda, about 29 miles southwest of the capital city Kampala. It sits on the shores of Lake Victoria and is home to Entebbe International Airport, Uganda’s main international air gateway.

Entebbe is a popular tourist destination due to its scenic beaches on Lake Victoria as well as its close proximity to many attractions like the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, and the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre. However, accommodations in Entebbe tend to be more expensive compared to other parts of Uganda due to its popularity with tourists.

Fortunately, there are still affordable accommodation options available in Entebbe for travelers on a budget. This article will cover some of the best affordable places to stay in Entebbe.

Budget Hotels in Entebbe

Hotel Africana

Located right in the center of Entebbe along the shores of Lake Victoria, Hotel Africana offers basic but clean rooms starting at 80,000 UGX per night. It has an outdoor pool and restaurant serving local dishes. Wifi is available.

Good Times Hotel Entebbe

A bit farther from the lake but still within walking distance, Good Times Hotel Entebbe has rooms from 60,000 UGX. It has a pool, restaurant, and free parking. Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, TV, and wifi.

Sunrise Inn Entebbe

Sunrise Inn is one of the most affordable options in Entebbe, with rooms for as low as 40,000 UGX. It has a pool and restaurant. While rooms are basic, they are kept clean and have private bathrooms. Wifi is available.

Lake View Guesthouse

Located a 10-minute walk from the airport, Lake View Guesthouse has rooms from 50,000 UGX with lake views. It has a restaurant, free parking, and wifi throughout. Rooms are equipped with fans, TV, and private bathrooms.

Other Affordable Accommodation Types

Hostels and Dormitories

If you’re traveling solo or with friends on a tight budget, consider staying at a hostel in Entebbe. Some good options include The Nest Hostel Entebbe and Red Chilli Hideaway, which offer dorm beds from 15,000 UGX per night.

Budget Guesthouses

Small guesthouses like Olive Guest House and Kisasa Lodge offer basic rooms with shared bathrooms starting at 30,000 UGX per night. They may lack amenities but offer a local, affordable experience.

Homestays

Contact local tour companies to inquire about homestay options, where you can rent a room in a private home starting around 20,000 UGX per night. Homestays offer cultural immersion and local hospitality.

FAQ

Q: What areas of Entebbe should I avoid if staying on a budget?

A: The most expensive areas to stay in Entebbe are along the lake shore in central Entebbe and around the Botanical Gardens. Areas farther from the lake like Kitubulu tend to be more affordable.

Q: Is it safe to travel to Entebbe alone?

A: Entebbe is generally very safe for travelers. Just use normal safety precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night. The police presence is strong around the airport area as well.

Q: What transportation options are available from Entebbe Airport?

A: From Entebbe International Airport, you can take a taxi (starting at 30,000 UGX), shuttle bus (5,000 UGX), or public bus (2,000 UGX) to locations in Entebbe town. Many budget accommodations offer free airport pickups too.

Q: Are there any activities for budget travelers in Entebbe?

A: Yes, the Entebbe Botanical Gardens only costs 5,000 UGX to visit. You can also check out Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary day trips starting at 60,000 UGX. Free activities include walking along the lakeshore and visiting markets in Entebbe.

Q: What areas offer the best value for money accommodation in Entebbe?

A: The Kitubulu area and inland parts of Entebbe like Nsambya tend to offer the best value accommodation as they are farther from the lake but still close to amenities. Budget hotels like Good Times Hotel also deliver good value for modest prices.