Arriving at Entebbe International Airport (EBB) marks the start of your Ugandan adventure. Getting to Entebbe city or your hotel doesn’t have to be stressful. This guide covers your options, from readily available taxis to pre-booked transfers, helping you choose the best balance of cost, convenience, and comfort.
Official airport taxis are usually found just outside the arrivals hall. Look for a clearly marked taxi stand, and it’s a good idea to confirm the driver is authorized. Don’t accept offers from individuals approaching you *inside* the terminal; these are often unofficial and can lead to inflated fares. Before you start your journey, always agree on a price with the driver. Negotiating is common, but be polite and reasonable. Expect to pay between 20 and 40 USD for a trip to Entebbe town, depending on traffic and your exact destination.
For a smoother experience, especially after a long flight, consider a pre-booked private transfer. These services typically include a driver meeting you inside the arrivals hall with a sign displaying your name. When booking, confirm the meeting point details and ensure the price is all-inclusive – any potential extras should be clearly stated. Private transfers generally cost between 30 and 60 USD, offering a fixed price and peace of mind. They’re a great option if you value convenience and a direct route to your accommodation.
Shared shuttles or minibuses are a more budget-friendly option, but they involve multiple stops and can take longer. These are usually found outside the airport and operate on set routes. They’re best suited if you’re traveling to a common destination and aren’t in a hurry. Expect to pay around 10 to 20 USD for a shared shuttle. Public buses are also available, but they require navigating local transport hubs and may not be ideal with luggage. The journey will be significantly longer and less comfortable than other options.
The time it takes to reach Entebbe city center or nearby towns varies. During off-peak hours, a taxi or private transfer might take 20 to 40 minutes. However, traffic, especially during rush hour, can easily extend this to 60 minutes or more. Consider the time of day when planning your journey. Popular destinations include Kampala (approximately 60-90 minutes, 40-70 USD), Jinja (approximately 2-3 hours, 80-120 USD), and Masaka (approximately 3-4 hours, 90-150 USD).
| Option | Time Range | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 20-60 minutes | 20-40 |
| Private Transfer | 20-45 minutes | 30-60 |
| Shared Shuttle | 45-90 minutes | 10-20 |
| Public Bus | 90+ minutes | 5-10 |
Times and prices vary by traffic and season.
Look for the clearly marked taxi stand just outside the arrivals hall. Avoid accepting rides from people approaching you inside the terminal.
Yes, using official airport taxis is generally safe. Always agree on a price before starting your journey.
A private transfer or taxi is the most convenient option for Kampala, taking around 60-90 minutes.
Expect to pay between 20 and 40 USD, depending on traffic and your exact destination.
If you value convenience and a fixed price, a pre-booked transfer can be a great option, especially after a long flight.
Shared shuttles are cheaper but involve multiple stops and take longer. They're best for budget travelers heading to common destinations.
Public buses are available, but they require navigating local transport and aren’t ideal with luggage.
Traffic is the biggest factor. Rush hour can significantly increase travel time.
US dollars are widely accepted, but having some Ugandan Shillings is useful for smaller purchases.
Tipping isn't mandatory, but rounding up the fare is appreciated for good service.
If you've pre-booked a transfer, contact the company to inform them of the delay. They usually monitor flights.
Your hotel or guesthouse can often provide helpful advice and arrange transport for you.