Protea Hotel Entebbe: Location, Updated Prices 2025, Menu

Nestled on the shimmering shores of Lake Victoria, just a whisper away from Entebbe International Airport, Protea Hotel Entebbe stands as a beacon of luxury and convenience in one of Africa’s most vibrant gateways.

As part of the renowned Marriott International portfolio, this 4-star resort seamlessly blends modern elegance with the natural beauty of Uganda’s landscapes.

Whether you’re a weary traveler touching down for a quick layover, a business executive sealing deals in the region and looking for where to stay in Entebbe, or a safari enthusiast gearing up for gorilla trekking in Bwindi, Protea Hotel Entebbe offers an inviting retreat that promises relaxation, sophistication, and unforgettable experiences.

A Storied Legacy on the Shores of Lake Victoria

The story of Protea Hotel Entebbe is intertwined with the evolution of Uganda’s hospitality scene and the broader narrative of Entebbe as a colonial-era hub turned modern travel nexus.

Entebbe, meaning “seat” in Luganda, was established in the late 19th century as a British administrative outpost, owing to its strategic position on Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake.

The area’s botanical gardens, planted in 1898, and its role as the site of Uganda’s international airport since 1972 have long made it a pivotal entry point for explorers, diplomats, and adventurers.

Protea Hotel Entebbe traces its roots to the early 2000s, when it opened as a mid-tier property under the Protea brand—a South African hospitality chain acquired by Marriott in 2014.

This affiliation elevated its status, infusing global standards into a locale rich with local flavor. Originally designed as a serene escape for airline crews and transit passengers, the hotel has grown into a full-fledged resort, expanding to 85 rooms and suites by 2024.

Its architecture—a harmonious mix of low-rise, two- and three-story buildings—echoes the tropical modernism of East African design, with whitewashed walls, expansive verandas, and lush gardens that pay homage to the nearby Entebbe Botanical Gardens.

Over the years, Protea has hosted dignitaries, celebrities, and regional summits, cementing its reputation as a neutral ground for diplomacy.

In 2025, it continues to thrive, hosting events like the Inter-University Council for East Africa’s scholarship mobility scheme meetings and Uganda Civil Aviation Authority’s regulatory training sessions.

These gatherings underscore its role not just as a hotel, but as a venue fostering East Africa’s progress. As Uganda’s tourism rebounds post-pandemic, with visitor numbers surpassing pre-2020 levels, Protea remains a cornerstone, blending historical charm with contemporary allure.

Protea Hotel Entebbe Location

What truly sets Protea Hotel Entebbe apart is its unbeatable location. Situated at 36-40 Sebugwawo Drive, along Entebbe Road, the property is a mere 1 km (about a 3-minute drive) from Entebbe International Airport, making it the closest luxury option for arrivals and departures.

Despite this proximity, the hotel feels worlds away from the hustle of runways; guests often remark that aircraft noise is minimal, thanks to thoughtful landscaping and the buffering embrace of Lake Victoria.

Overlooking the lake’s glassy expanse, Protea offers direct waterfront access, with manicured lawns rolling down to the water’s edge.

This positioning not only provides breathtaking sunsets but also facilitates easy excursions into Entebbe’s treasures. The Entebbe Botanical Gardens, a 5-minute drive away, boast over 300 tree species and served as a filming location for early Tarzan movies.

The Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), formerly Entebbe Zoo, just 2.2 miles north, rehabilitates orphaned animals and offers interactive encounters with chimpanzees and shoebills. For birdwatchers, Mabamba Swamp, 3 miles west, is a hotspot for rare shoebill storks.

Entebbe itself is a 40-minute drive from Kampala, Uganda’s bustling capital, allowing seamless day trips to markets, mosques, and the Kasubi Tombs.

For adventure seekers, the hotel serves as an ideal base for safaris: Queen Elizabeth National Park’s tree-climbing lions are a 5-hour drive away, while Bwindi Impenetrable Forest’s mountain gorillas beckon from a scenic 8-hour journey.

Locally, guests can rent bicycles to pedal through suburban streets or join canoe outings on the lake. The Entebbe Golf Club, nearby, caters to fairway fans, while the Sailing Club hosts regattas. In essence, Protea’s locale transforms it from a mere stopover into a launchpad for Uganda’s diverse offerings.

Luxurious Accommodations: Comfort Redefined

Step into Protea Hotel Entebbe, and you’re greeted by 85 spacious rooms and suites across six categories, each designed for tranquility and functionality.

Standard Guest Rooms, starting at 25 square meters, feature queen or twin beds, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, high-speed Wi-Fi (complimentary for Marriott Bonvoy members), air-conditioning, electronic safes, mini-bars, and en-suite bathrooms with rain showers and complimentary toiletries. Many boast balconies with partial lake views, though some airport-facing options lack them.

For more indulgence, Larger Guest Rooms add space and upgraded linens, while Executive Suites—ideal for families or extended stays—span 50 square meters with king beds, separate lounges, and extra bedding options.

All accommodations emphasize contemporary African aesthetics: warm earth tones, local artwork, and sustainable materials like bamboo flooring. Hair dryers, irons, and tea/coffee facilities are standard, ensuring self-sufficiency.

Families appreciate interconnecting rooms and the children’s pool area, while business travelers benefit from ergonomic desks and 24-hour room service.

As of 2025, renovations are underway (March 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026), focusing on room refreshes during business hours to minimize disruption—think updated fixtures and enhanced energy efficiency. Pets are occasionally accommodated, subject to availability, adding a homey touch for animal lovers.

Protea Hotel Entebbe Prices: Value in Every Stay

Protea Hotel Entebbe’s pricing reflects its premium positioning as a 4-star lakeside resort, with rates varying by season, room type, and booking platform.

As of September 2025, standard guest rooms start from approximately $228 per night for a single occupancy, including taxes and fees, though prices can fluctuate to $150–$300 depending on demand and low-season discounts.

For instance, Larger Guest Rooms or lake-view options often range from $250–$350, while Executive Suites command $400–$500 for added space and amenities.

These rates typically encompass breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and access to the pool and fitness center, but exclude spa treatments or premium drinks.

Below is a table summarizing the pricing details for accommodations at Protea Hotel Entebbe, with only the Room Type and Price Range (USD per Night) columns included, as requested:

Room Type	Price Range (USD per Night)
Standard Guest Room	$150–$300 (approx. $228 base)
Larger Guest Room	$250–$350
Executive Suite	$400–$500
Single	$50-$100

Notes:

Prices are approximate, based on September 2025 rates, and include taxes and fees.
Rates fluctuate depending on season, with low-season discounts (April–June, September–November) potentially lowering prices, and peak seasons (July–August, December) pushing rates higher.
Exclusions include spa treatments and premium drinks.

Booking directly through Marriott.com or the Bonvoy app unlocks exclusive deals, such as 10–20% off for members or packages bundling airport transfers.

Platforms like Booking.com and Agoda frequently offer flash sales, dropping rates to $180 in shoulder seasons (April–June or September–November), while peak times like July–August or December holidays push prices toward the higher end.

Single supplements add $50–$100, and children under 12 stay free with parents. Overall, guests praise the value, especially for the included shuttle and serene setting, making it a smart choice for transit stays without breaking the bank.

What time is check out at Protea Hotel Entebbe

The check-out time at Protea Hotel Entebbe is 10:00 AM.

This standard policy applies to most reservations, though late check-out may be available upon request (subject to availability and potential fees). For personalized arrangements, contact the hotel directly or via their Marriott booking confirmation.

Amenities and Services: A World of Wellness and Convenience

Protea Hotel Entebbe excels in amenities that cater to every whim, creating a self-contained oasis. At its heart is the year-round outdoor pool, complete with a shallow kids’ section and cabanas for lounging under the equatorial sun.

Adjacent, the spa offers massages, facials, and body treatments using local ingredients like shea butter, with al fresco options overlooking the lake. Fitness enthusiasts can hit the gym or join weekly ballet classes by the water— a unique touch promoted in 2025.

Dining is a highlight, led by Tides Restaurant, where à la carte menus fuse international fare with Ugandan specialties like matoke (steamed plantains) and tilapia fresh from the lake.

Open seven days, it serves breakfast buffets with fresh juices and lake-view dinners under the stars. The Terrace Bar beckons for cocktails at sunset, while a crafts shop stocks Ugandan beads and batiks. For families, bicycle rentals encourage exploration, and the free airport shuttle (notify in advance) eases logistics.

Business facilities shine with a conference center, meeting rooms, and banquet halls accommodating up to 200, equipped with AV tech and high-speed internet.

Laundry, dry cleaning, and concierge services round out the offerings, with 24/7 security ensuring peace of mind. Sustainability efforts include water conservation and solar panels, aligning with Marriott’s global ethos.

Culinary Delights and Social Scenes

Food at Protea is more than sustenance—it’s a celebration of Uganda’s bounty. Tides’ menu evolves seasonally, featuring grilled lake perch, vegetarian curries, and wood-fired pizzas, with vegan and gluten-free options aplenty.

Breakfast, from 6:30 AM, includes tropical fruits, artisanal breads, and omelet stations. The Terrace, with its breezy vibe, pairs craft beers with small plates, drawing locals for weekend brunches.

In 2025, the hotel amps up social events: graduation packages with themed dinners and photo ops, and lakeside barbecues tied to nearby White Sand Beach’s rave Saturdays. These gatherings foster a communal spirit, blending global guests with Ugandan flair.

Protea Hotel Entebbe Menu

Below is a table summarizing the pricing details for the culinary offerings at Protea Hotel Entebbe’s Tides Restaurant and The Terrace, as described in the provided section:

Dining Venue	Meal Type	Price Range (USD)	Menu Highlights
Tides Restaurant	Breakfast (Buffet)	$15–$20	Fresh juices, pastries, eggs to order, Ugandan staples like chapati
Tides Restaurant	Lunch (À la carte)	$20–$30	Salads, sandwiches, pizzas
Tides Restaurant	Dinner (À la carte)	$25–$40	Grilled tilapia and Nile perch, curries, steaks, plantain-based dishes, desserts like tropical fruit platters and chocolate lava cake
The Terrace	Small Plates	$10–$15	Samosas, spring rolls, paired with craft beers or wines
The Terrace (Events)	Special Event Menus	$30–$50	Themed menus with pairings like grilled meats and cheeses for “Wine Down by the Lake” evenings

Notes:

Prices are approximate and based on 2025 rates, subject to change depending on season and availability.
Tides Restaurant accommodates up to 250 guests and operates seven days a week.
Special event menus, such as those for “Wine Down by the Lake” or lakeside barbecues, may include additional offerings tied to themed events like graduations or White Sand Beach collaborations.

Guest Experiences: Voices from the Lake

Guest feedback paints Protea as a reliable 3.5- to 4-star haven, with TripAdvisor’s 440 reviews averaging 3/5 bubbles as of September 2025, ranking it #8 of 60 Entebbe hotels. Praises abound for the serene location—”an oasis near the airport,” as one 2025 reviewer noted after a medical trip.

Couples love the romantic sunsets (value: 4/5), families the pool (4.5/5 for kids), and solos the shuttle (5/5 convenience).

Common kudos include friendly staff—”efficient and warm,” per a June 2025 guest—and clean, comfy rooms. Dining scores high (4/5), with Tides lauded for fresh seafood.

Drawbacks? Occasional service hiccups, like delayed shuttles in traffic, and higher prices ($150–$250/night) due to its premium spot.

Looking Ahead: Renovations, Events, and Sustainability

As 2025 unfolds, Protea buzzes with updates. The ongoing renovations promise sleeker rooms and eco-upgrades, wrapping by early 2026.

Events calendar includes aviation trainings and scholarship forums, plus seasonal packages like September’s “New Month Fresh Starts” with lakefront yoga. Sustainability shines: rainwater harvesting and plastic reduction align with Uganda’s green tourism push.

Why Choose Protea? Your Essential Takeaways

Protea Hotel Entebbe isn’t just a stay—it’s a serene interlude in Uganda’s adventure tapestry. Book via Marriott for perks like free Wi-Fi and upgrades; expect $150–$300/night, with check-in at 2 PM and out by 10 AM.

Ideal for all travelers, it scores high on accessibility (free parking, shuttles) and versatility. In a nation of raw beauty and warm welcomes, Protea encapsulates the best of both—polished luxury amid untamed splendor. Whether unwinding poolside or plotting your next safari, this lakeside retreat ensures every moment gleams.