Entebbe International Airport

Entebbe International Airport (EBB) is not only the main air gateway to Uganda but also one of the most picturesque aviation hubs in Africa. Located on the shores of the legendary Lake Victoria, it welcomes travellers with breathtaking views of the endless expanse of water. As the country's key transport hub, the airport connects Uganda with dozens of cities around the world and serves as the starting point for unforgettable safaris and adventures in the "Pearl of Africa".

Entebbe Airport, serving as the main hub for the national carrier Uganda Airlines, is constantly being modernized for passenger convenience. Recent terminal expansion has increased capacity and added modern check-in counters, new boarding gates, and an improved baggage handling system. Travellers have access to all necessary services: from duty-free shops, cafes, and restaurants to currency exchange points and car rental offices. VIP services are also available, allowing for expedited formalities upon arrival or before departure.

The airport holds historical significance due to the old terminal, which became world-famous following the renowned "Operation Entebbe" hostage rescue mission in 1976. The airport handles both international and domestic flights, making it a convenient starting point for travel throughout Uganda. It is important to note that public transport does not run directly to the airport terminal, so it is best to use a taxi or arrange a transfer in advance to get to the city or your hotel.

Below is the contact information for Entebbe International Airport (EBB). We recommend always checking the official resources for the most up-to-date data before your trip.

• Official Website: Main information about the airport is available on the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) website: www.caa.co.ug
• Helpdesk Phone: +256 414 352 000 / +256 312 352 000
• Airport Address: Kampala Road, Entebbe, Uganda
• Email: aviation@caa.co.ug
• Social Media: For live updates and news, follow the official Uganda Civil Aviation Authority pages on X (formerly Twitter) — @UgandaCAA and on Facebook — Uganda Civil Aviation Authority.
• Lost & Found: For questions regarding lost or damaged luggage, you should primarily contact your airline's representative office at the airport directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general inquiries and passenger support, you can use the main airport helpdesk phone number.

Getting to Entebbe International Airport (EBB), the main air gateway of Uganda, is quite straightforward. The airport is located in the city of Entebbe, approximately 40 kilometres from the capital, Kampala. There are several transport options available to suit any budget and travel style.

Taxi or Private Transfer — this is the most popular and convenient method. The journey from central Kampala to the airport takes between 1 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions, which can be very heavy. You can use official airport taxis, order a car via apps (such as Uber or Bolt, which are popular here), or arrange a transfer with your hotel. The cost of the trip varies, so it is recommended to confirm the price in advance or use the meter in the app. This is the most comfortable and safe option, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

Public Transport — this is a budget alternative for more experienced travellers. Route taxis, known as matatus, run along the Kampala – Entebbe route. They depart as they fill up and follow the main road. Note that matatus do not enter the airport grounds themselves, so you may need to walk a short distance or use a motorcycle taxi (boda-boda) for the final leg of the journey. This method is not recommended for tourists with large luggage or those who value comfort and predictability.

Car Rental offers maximum freedom of movement, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas. Both international and local rental companies operate at the airport and in major cities. An international driving permit is usually required for rental. Be prepared for left-hand traffic and busy traffic conditions in the capital region.

For those arriving in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is available at Entebbe Airport. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking. Rates depend on the duration of parking.

Entebbe International Airport (EBB) is the primary air gateway to Uganda, and its structure is quite simple and intuitive for travellers. In effect, the airport consists of one main terminal complex that serves both domestic and international flights, although it is often nominally divided into "old" and "new" parts.

The main, or new, terminal handles all international flights. Its layout is standard and logical: the arrivals area is located on the ground floor, where passengers pass through immigration control, collect baggage, and go through customs inspection. The departures area is located on the first floor and includes airline check-in counters, security checkpoints, passport control, and boarding gates. The old terminal, located nearby, is used primarily for domestic flights and some regional and charter flights.

Navigation within the airport is not difficult. Since all international operations are concentrated in one building, you will not have to worry about long transfers between terminals. Signs in English will help you easily find your way to the necessary counters, gates, or service desks. The transfer between the international and domestic zones also does not take much time and is done on foot.

To go through all pre-flight procedures calmly, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance. For international flights, the standard recommendation is to arrive at least 3 hours before the scheduled departure. This time is usually sufficient for check-in, baggage drop, as well as passing through several stages of security and passport control, where queues may form during peak hours.

Overall, thanks to its compact size and clear layout, Entebbe Airport is convenient for passengers. The main tip for navigation is to check your flight information on the electronic screens immediately upon arrival in the departures area to find your check-in counter and boarding gate number, and keep your documents ready.

The history of Entebbe International Airport (EBB) is closely intertwined with the history of Uganda itself. Its predecessor, a landing strip, was built as early as 1929. However, the official opening of the main passenger terminal took place in 1951, with Princess Elizabeth, the future Queen of Great Britain, participating in the ceremony. Located on a picturesque peninsula on the shores of Lake Victoria, the airport initially served as a crucial transport hub for the British Empire in East Africa.

The most dramatic event in the airport's history was Operation Entebbe in July 1976. An Air France passenger plane flying from Tel Aviv to Paris was hijacked by terrorists and landed in Entebbe. The hostages were held in the old terminal building. During a daring counter-terrorism operation conducted by Israeli special forces, most of the hostages were rescued. This event gained worldwide fame and forever entered the airport's history. The old terminal building, where the main events took place, has been preserved to this day and is used for domestic flights and military purposes.

In the early 1970s, a new, more modern terminal was built to cope with growing international passenger traffic. However, following the events of 1976 and during a period of political instability in the country, the airport fell into decline. A new era for Entebbe Airport began in the 1990s and 2000s, when large-scale reconstruction and modernization programmes were launched. Runways were expanded, the passenger terminal was renovated, and new cargo complexes were built.

Today, Entebbe International Airport is Uganda's main air gateway, receiving flights from all over the world. Its expansion continues, aimed at increasing capacity to several million passengers per year. An interesting fact: thanks to its location on the equator and proximity to the vast Lake Victoria, the airport offers pilots and passengers unique views during takeoff and landing, making it one of the most scenic airports in Africa.

Entebbe International Airport (EBB) offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Whether you are arriving in Uganda or departing from it, you will find a wide range of services here to make your journey more pleasant.

For those wishing to have a snack or do some shopping, the airport features restaurants and cafes offering both local and international dishes. In the shops, including Duty Free, you can purchase souvenirs, gifts, cosmetics, and other goods. To relax in a quieter environment, passengers can make use of the lounges, including VIP lounges, which offer snacks, beverages, and a more secluded atmosphere.

Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay in touch with loved ones or attend to work matters. Special stations are provided for charging electronic devices. Financial services are represented by bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points, where you can easily exchange money upon arrival or before departure.

The airport caters to all categories of passengers. In case of necessity, you can visit the medical centre for first aid. Rooms for mothers and children are equipped for travellers with little ones. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance, including escort services and special equipment for boarding.

If you have a long layover or an early flight, hotels of various comfort levels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. For business travellers who need to hold a meeting or work, conference rooms and business centres equipped with all necessary facilities may be available at the airport.

At Entebbe International Airport (EBB), passengers will find several options for a snack or a full meal, located both before and after passport control. The selection of establishments caters to different tastes and budgets, ranging from a quick coffee to a leisurely dinner before departure.

Landside (Before Passport Control), in the public access area, there are establishments convenient for those meeting passengers or those who have arrived at the airport early. For example, you can visit one of the cafes of the popular local chain Café PAP to drink high-quality Ugandan coffee, eat a sandwich, or enjoy fresh pastries. This is an excellent option for a quick and quality snack.

The majority of restaurants and lounges are concentrated Airside (Departure Area), after passing through security control. Here, travellers can relax while waiting for their flight. One of the most well-known establishments is Karibuni Restaurant, which serves dishes of both Ugandan and international cuisine. This is a great opportunity to try local delicacies, for example, grilled Tilapia fish from Lake Victoria. Other cafes and lounges also operate in the departure area, offering light snacks, salads, and beverages.

Regarding special dietary requirements, vegetarian dishes can usually be found in restaurants like Karibuni. Halal options are generally available given the local context. However, choices for vegans or passengers on a gluten-free diet may be limited, so it is recommended to check the ingredients with the staff. Prices at the airport are typically higher than in the city. Most establishments in the departure area operate according to the flight schedule, serving passengers of early morning and late evening flights.

Travelling through Entebbe International Airport (EBB), the main air gateway of Uganda, will be easier and more pleasant if you prepare in advance. Follow these tips to ensure your flight goes smoothly from check-in to boarding.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 2 hours. This will give you enough time to complete all formalities without rushing. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. However, note that you will still need to drop off your luggage at the designated counter.

Security Checks. Be prepared for several stages of security screening. Keep your passport, boarding pass, and other necessary documents ready, including your visa and international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever — having this is strictly mandatory for entry into the country. During checks, remain calm and follow the instructions of airport staff.

Hand Luggage and Seat Selection. Standard rules for carrying liquids (in containers up to 100 ml) apply here as well. Ensure there are no prohibited items in your hand luggage: sharp objects or flammable substances. Electronics, especially power banks, must be carried only in hand luggage. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat will offer you magnificent views of Lake Victoria during takeoff or landing, while an aisle seat provides more legroom and freedom of movement.

Transfer Passengers. If you have a connecting flight in Entebbe, follow the "Transit" or "Connections" signs. Depending on your itinerary and airlines, you may need to go through security control again. Check in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Always check the boarding gate number on the information screens, as it may change.

Customs Control upon Arrival. Fill out the immigration card and customs declaration, which are usually distributed on the plane. Honestly declare all goods and cash if they exceed the established limits. Be prepared to present your Yellow Fever vaccination certificate once again.

Economy and Comfort. To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it at the drinking fountains after passing security control. You can also bring light snacks with you. Although there are exchange bureaus at the airport, the rate may not be the most favourable. It is recommended to have a small amount of local currency (Ugandan Shillings) for minor expenses.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be entitled to drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. If you have travel insurance, contact your insurance company to inquire about possible compensation.