Kampala Nightlife

Renowned throughout East Africa for its infamous nightlife Kampala is quickly becoming a major site on traditional safari circuits.  With a variety of bars, clubs, and hangouts placed throughout the city there is always something going on during the week, with things really kicking off on the weekend.  Here are a list of some of our favorite local hangouts.

Bubbles O’Leary

Self proclaimed as Uganda’s only Irish bar, Bubbles is an infamous local haunt drawing an eclectic clientele of expats and Kampala business professionals.  Weekdays provide a more relaxed atmosphere with local bands performing and trivia nights, while the weekends draw large and rowdy crowds.  A relaxed garden setting and outdoor patio surrounds the classic Irish pub structure which is notorious for holding dance parties that last till morning.  Their excellent Irish stew is the perfect cure for the morning after hangover.

Cayenne

Located in Ntinda not far from the center of Kampala, Cayenne is a large open-aired venue that plays a mixture of Indian and Western hits on most nights.  Frequented by Kampala’s elite the drinks are pricey, but you are paying to be seen.  Rarely getting busy till well after midnight, when it does pick up it is a party not to miss.

Iguana

Situated near the center of town Iguana is fairly new bar that already has a large following.  The upstairs venue and outside patio plays a variety of techno and house music, which brings in a younger crowd of expats, volunteers, and locals.  With several couches clustered around the dance floor it is the perfect place to drink a cold beer and people watch throughout the night.

Mish Mash

Another popular hangout, Mish Mash is located in the heart of the city along Accacia Avenue.  The large sprawling lawn is transformed into a dance floor during the weekend where an eclectic mix of international covers and African pop music is played.  Behind the main building lies  a bar and several secluded tables for those wanting a calmer  and more relaxed evening with friends.

Capital Pub

An infamous local haunt Capital Pub is located along the Kablagala strip, or as locals call it the “Tijuana of Uganda.”  Crowded and sweaty this local bar plays a range of Ugandan music and African hits throughout the night.  Locals often come here to play pool and to enjoy the cheap beer.