AFRICAN CODING CONTEST 2026 • KAMPALA VISITOR GUIDE
Planning your trip to Uganda? This guide highlights practical accommodation, apartment-style stays, transport, food and interesting places to explore around the two main participant locations: Makerere University and the National ICT Innovation Hub at UICT–Nakawa.
STAY NEAR MAKERERE
Booking's current Makerere search highlights nearby options including Makerere University Guest House, Mt. Zion Hotel Annex and Jarin Hotel; current listing prices vary by date. View current Makerere hotel availability →
Located on Flame Road within the university area. Current listings describe free Wi-Fi in public areas, restaurant, breakfast and free parking. Makerere University School of Medicine also describes it as secure accommodation suitable for first-time visitors.
Current listings place the property on Makerere Hill Road and show it among the budget hotels near Makerere University. A good option to compare when keeping accommodation costs in mind.
A guest-house style option on Upper Mawanda Road. Current map listings show it as a lower-cost Kampala accommodation option, making it worth comparing with hotel rooms.
STAY AROUND NAKAWA / NTINDA / BUGOLOBI
Located on Plot 137/139 Ntinda–Nakawa Road. Current listings describe free Wi-Fi, parking, a restaurant, meeting rooms and 24-hour reception.
Current map listings place Val Heights 200 m off Ntinda–Kisaasi Road and show a relatively modest current listing price compared with many central Kampala hotels. Verify the exact room and dates before booking.
A Bugolobi option with a large pool and garden setting. Current listings show free parking, Wi-Fi, restaurant and airport pick-up options.
AIRBNB / APARTMENT-STYLE STAYS
Airbnb's current Kampala/Ntinda pages show apartment rentals with kitchens, Wi-Fi and workspaces; current Ntinda listings start around $10/night before taxes and fees, but exact pricing depends on dates and occupancy. Explore Airbnb apartments in Ntinda →
Entire condo for up to 3 guests; current listing describes proximity to Makerere University, Kasubi Tombs and central Kampala, with Wi-Fi, kitchen and workspace.
View AirbnbTwo-bedroom apartment near Makerere and Mulago Hospital with high-speed internet, kitchen, washing machine and free parking; suitable for a small group.
View AirbnbCurrent listing describes easy access to Makerere University, food markets, restaurants and shopping, with Wi-Fi, workspace and secure free parking.
View AirbnbCurrent listing in central Ntinda; one bedroom, Wi-Fi, kitchen, free parking and hot tub. Suitable for solo travellers or couples.
View AirbnbCurrent listing highlights easy access to public/private transport, fast fibre internet, a nearby market and Capital Shoppers.
View AirbnbA current 3-bedroom Bugolobi listing can accommodate up to 7 guests and is near Bugolobi Market and Village Mall — useful for group bookings.
View AirbnbGETTING AROUND
Uganda Civil Aviation Authority says the airport is connected to Kampala by a 42 km all-weather road; the drive normally takes about 40 minutes by car, with heavier traffic in the morning and evening. The CAA advises arriving passengers to use clearly marked yellow-band Airport Taxis and notes public transport is also available.
CAA travel guidanceUber's current Kampala guide supports on-demand and scheduled rides, including airport trips, and offers UberXL for groups of up to six. Use the app to see a live fare estimate for the chosen route.
Uber Kampala guideSafeBoda currently offers SafeBoda motorcycle rides and SafeCar car rides in Uganda. Its site describes trained, trusted drivers and cashless payment options. For international visitors, use the app and follow its in-app safety guidance.
SafeBoda UgandaFOOD & EASY MEALS
Opposite Makerere University main gate at Ham Towers. Current map listing shows an UGX 1–20,000 price band and daily service. View location
On Sir Apollo Kaggwa Road in the Makerere area; current map listing places it in a UGX 20–40,000 range and shows extended hours. View location
At Nakawa Division on Ntinda II Road; a convenient option for participants based around the Hub/Nakawa side. View location
EXPLORE KAMPALA
A major Buganda heritage site and UNESCO World Heritage property. The site is about 5 km from Kampala city centre; its official guidance describes it as a significant cultural and religious centre.
Visit siteOn Old Kampala Hill, with guided tours and panoramic city views from the minaret. Dress modestly and follow visitor guidance at the site.
ExploreA cultural hub on Kira Road celebrating Uganda's heritage through music, dance, storytelling and food.
Kampala TourismExplore performing arts and pick up locally made crafts and souvenirs.
ExploreA historic Buganda route connecting major royal and administrative heritage landmarks.
ExploreKampala Tourism describes the city as a blend of history, culture, cuisine and modern urban energy. Build a short, sensible itinerary around the competition schedule.
Kampala Tourism PortalBOOK SMART
Check exact event location, distance, Wi-Fi, power backup, breakfast, cancellation rules and whether the property can issue a receipt/invoice if needed for an organisation.
Allow extra time during peak traffic. Share your destination and booking details with a trusted colleague or host, and use established ride-hailing or clearly identified transport services.
Compare an apartment with multiple bedrooms against separate hotel rooms; the better value depends on the number of travellers and the length of stay.