Passing through Entebbe International Airport? A layover in Entebbe is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 45 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of EBB:
- Can you legally enter Uganda? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 45-minute journey each way by Taxi / Matatu, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the UGX. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
How to Get Into Entebbe
You have two main options for getting from Entebbe International Airport into town:
- Taxi / Matatu: About 45 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 65 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
What to See and Do in Entebbe
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Entebbe, two standouts are:
- Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Entebbe Botanical Gardens — A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at EBB, check out Pearl Lounge or Duty-Free Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Entebbe: Goretti’s Beachside Pizzeria and Grill and Faze 3 Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Entebbe Airport Restaurant or Coffee & Snack Bar. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Entebbe, budget roughly $27 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $11 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $6 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Entebbe.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at EBB aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Entebbe itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and EBB is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Entebbe and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at EBB.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Entebbe exploring the streets or relaxing at EBB, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.