A long layover in Gulu is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Gulu Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 90 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at ULU:
First, verify that you can enter Uganda — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 90 minutes into Gulu, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — local currency is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Gulu from ULU
You have two main options for getting from Gulu Airport into town:
- local transport: About 90 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 110 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.
Luggage Storage at ULU
Luggage storage options at ULU can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Gulu for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
What to Budget for Your Gulu Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Gulu might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What to See and Do in Gulu
If you head into Gulu, here are two things worth checking out:
Gulu Main Market is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Gulu is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside ULU, you can spend time at Relax in the Airport Waiting Area or try Airport Kiosk for Snacks & Drinks. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Hotel Pearl Afrique Restaurant and The Hub Gulu are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Gulu.
- At the airport: ULU Airport Snack Bar and Departure Gate Refreshments will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at ULU for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Gulu or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
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 ULU.
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
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Gulu count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave ULU. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.