2025 Ultimate Guide to Entebbe International Airport, Uganda
Nestled on the shimmering northern shores of Lake Victoria, Entebbe International Airport (EBB) serves as Uganda’s primary aerial gateway, often referred to as Kampala Airport due to its proximity to the capital.
Built in the 1950s as a colonial-era hub, the airport was formally opened in 1951 after extensions to accommodate larger aircraft like the de Havilland Comet.
Today, it’s Uganda’s only international airport, handling over 1.1 million passengers in the first half of 2025 alone, with a record 243,089 international travelers in August—marking the highest monthly traffic in its history.
As the entry point for most tourists, EBB welcomes adventure-seekers bound for gorilla treks in Bwindi or safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park, blending modern efficiency with the Pearl of Africa’s natural charm.
Whether you’re searching for flights to Entebbe or Entebbe Airport arrivals, this guide covers everything from the Kampala Airport code (EBB) to Entebbe Airport to Kampala transfers.
Location & Accessibility of Entebbe International Airport
Located in Entebbe town, about 6 km southwest of the airport itself, EBB sits 40 km southwest of Kampala, Uganda’s bustling capital.
The journey from Kampala to Entebbe International Airport typically takes 40–45 minutes by car, depending on traffic, thanks to the Entebbe–Kampala Expressway—a 23-km toll road completed in 2018 that slashes travel time from the previous two hours. This upgrade has made accessing Uganda’s main airport smoother for both locals and visitors.
Getting to and from EBB is straightforward. Taxis, known as “special hires,” are readily available outside arrivals; official airport taxis are marked with a yellow band and black “AIRPORT TAXI” lettering for safety.
Private transfers offer door-to-door service, ideal for groups or those with heavy luggage. Many hotels provide complimentary shuttles, while ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt operate reliably, connecting seamlessly to Kampala or Entebbe town.
For budget travelers, minibuses (matatus) run from Entebbe town to Kampala’s taxi parks, though they require a short initial taxi ride from the airport (about 10–15 minutes).
Public buses like the Pineapple Express shuttle depart thrice daily from a dedicated station, covering the route in 90 minutes. With these options, Entebbe Airport to Kampala transfers are hassle-free, setting the tone for your Ugandan adventure.
Airlines & Destinations
Entebbe International Airport buzzes with connectivity, serving as a hub for 23 airlines flying to 33 destinations across 22 countries as of August 2025.
Major carriers include Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, and Kenya Airways, alongside regional players like RwandAir and Air Tanzania. The national carrier, Uganda Airlines, dominates with direct flights to key hubs, enhancing Uganda’s global links.
Popular routes from EBB include Dubai (Emirates and FlyDubai, multiple daily), Doha (Qatar Airways), Nairobi (Kenya Airways), Kigali (RwandAir), Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), Johannesburg (Ethiopian Airlines), and Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines).
Uganda Airlines offers directs to London Gatwick (8 hours 40 minutes), Mumbai, Lagos, and Abuja, with expansions boosting tourism.
New additions like Flynas’ Riyadh-Entebbe service since January 2025 have spiked Middle East traffic. Domestic flights via Aerolink Uganda connect to Kasese, Kihihi (Bwindi gateway), Kisoro, and Pakuba for seamless safari access.
For Entebbe Airport flight schedule today (September 19, 2025), expect around 37 arrivals, including Kenya Airways from Nairobi (KQ 420, est. 09:06), Uganda Airlines from Nairobi (UR 203, 09:11), RwandAir from Kigali (WB 434, 10:06), and FlyDubai from Dubai (FZ 619, 10:05).
Check live updates via the UCAA app or Flightradar24 for delays. With Uganda Airlines’ fleet growth, flights to Entebbe are more frequent, making it easier to plan your Uganda main airport arrival.
Facilities & Services at Entebbe International Airpot
Entebbe International Airport’s facilities blend functionality with comfort, supporting its role as East Africa’s growing hub.
The airport features two terminals: the older one for domestic and regional flights, and the state-of-the-art international terminal opened in 2007, spanning 20,000 square meters with air-conditioned lounges, efficient check-in counters, and dedicated departures/arrivals halls.
VIP lounges, including the government-exclusive facility and the pay-per-use Karibuni Lounge (airside, with showers), cater to weary travelers—economy passengers can access for a fee via lounge programs.
Duty-free shops stock Ugandan crafts, coffee, and spirits alongside global brands; currency exchange bureaus and ATMs (Visa/Mastercard accepted) handle forex needs.
Restaurants and bars serve local favorites like matooke and Rolex alongside international cuisine, with a landside cafeteria for quick bites.
Car rental services from Avis and Budget are available in arrivals, perfect for self-drive tourists exploring Uganda’s roads.
Health facilities include first-aid stations and COVID-19 testing points, though requirements have eased by 2025. Lost & found and baggage handling are efficient, with minimal reports of issues; declare valuables at customs to avoid duties (allowance: 1L alcohol, 200 cigarettes).
Free Wi-Fi is patchy, so pack a power bank. Parking is automated, with short-stay fees at UGX 5,000/hour for saloons (revised November 2024 to fund upgrades). Overall, Entebbe Airport facilities prioritize safety and convenience, earning high marks in the 2023 ICAO audit.
Travel Tips for Passengers
Navigating Entebbe International Airport is straightforward, but savvy tips ensure a smooth start. Security checks require liquids in a 1L transparent bag; medications and baby food are exempt.
Prohibited items include weapons, lighters (to certain destinations like India), and e-cigarettes. Yellow fever vaccination proof is mandatory for entry—carry your card.
Baggage rules vary: Uganda Airlines allows 23kg checked (1–2 pieces economy) and 7–10kg carry-on; excess fees apply (pool for groups).
Arrive at least 3 hours before international flights, 2 for domestic, to account for queues. For Entebbe Airport arrivals, expect immigration lines during peaks—use e-visas via immigration.go.ug for faster processing.
First-time travelers to Uganda: Download the UCAA app for live status; declare cash over $10,000. Tipping isn’t obligatory but appreciated (UGX 1,000–2,000 for porters).
Stay hydrated—Lake Victoria’s humidity hits 80%—and exchange money at the airport for small UGX notes. Respect local customs: modest dress near religious sites. With these, your Kampala Airport name (Entebbe International) experience transitions seamlessly to Uganda’s wonders.
Parking at Kampala Airport
Parking at EBB caters to all: Short-stay (first hour: UGX 5,000 saloons, 8,000 vans, 10,000 trucks) suits quick pickups; long-term starts at UGX 30,000/day, then 10,000/additional (UGX 200,000 after 30 days as deterrent). No barriers on short-stay lots—avoid long-term to dodge clamps
Hotels Near Entebbe Airport
For layovers or early flights, hotels near Entebbe Airport offer respite with Lake Victoria views. Luxury options like Protea Hotel Entebbe (1 km away, from $193/night) boast lakeside pools, spas, and free shuttles—ideal for unwinding with Ugandan cuisine.
Mid-range picks include Admas Grand Hotel (9.2/10 rating, free airport shuttle, pool, and wellness center) and Airport View Hotel (8.4/10, budget-friendly from $38, with lake views and concierge).
Budget stays like Golden Quest Hotel (from $18) or Abyssinia Guesthouse (from $21) provide clean rooms and breakfast, often with transfers.
For eco-vibes, Blue Berries Hotel (walkable to beaches, fitness center) or 2 Friends Beach Hotel (lush gardens, Lake Victoria dining) suit nature lovers.
Executive Airport Hotel offers generators for power outages, ensuring reliability. Book via Trip.com or Booking.com for deals; many include free breakfast and proximity to attractions like the Botanical Gardens.
Transport from the Airport
Post-arrival, Entebbe Airport to Kampala transport is efficient and varied. Taxis cost UGX 100,000 ($25) for up to four, taking 40–60 minutes via the expressway—book Uber/Bolt for metered fares or official airport cabs to avoid touts. Private transfers run $30–50, including meet-and-greet.
Hotel shuttles are free at many properties, while the Pineapple Express bus (UGX 42,000/$12 one-way) departs thrice daily, arriving in 90 minutes.
Buses and minibuses (UGX 5,000–7,000 total, 1–2 hours) suit budgets but involve transfers in Entebbe town. Driving yourself? Fuel costs $6–9; tolls are UGX 8,000. For safety, stick to licensed operators—Viator offers reliable 24/7 services from $25.
Tourism Connection
Entebbe International Airport isn’t just a transit point—it’s the launchpad for Uganda’s tourism gems. Many safari operators, like us, specializing in bespoke wildlife adventures, start trips right from EBB, offering seamless pickups for gorilla permits or game drives.
Its lakeside location ties directly to attractions: Stroll the Entebbe Zoo (UWEC, 3 km away) for orphaned chimps and other wildlife species, or boat to Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary (20 minutes by speedboat) for close encounters.
Lake Victoria beaches and the Entebbe Botanical Gardens (1 km) provide idyllic layover spots, while the Entebbe Crafts Village buzzes with artisan souvenirs.
As passenger numbers surge—213,217 in June 2025, driven by tourism promo—EBB underscores Uganda’s eco-appeal, connecting flyers to the “Pearl of Africa.”
Future Developments & Upgrades
Entebbe International Airport is on a transformative trajectory, with a $325 million expansion accelerating to position it as East Africa’s premier hub.
Phase 1 (92% complete as of August 2024) includes a new 20,000-sq-m terminal (82% done, opening June 2025), enhanced baggage systems, and Uganda Airlines’ HQ.
Runway resurfacing and an expanded apron for 100 aircraft boost capacity to 6 million passengers annually by 2033. Government plans under Vision 2040 emphasize modernization, with new shuttles from Kiira Motors and cybersecurity workshops enhancing ops.
Amid record traffic (1,133,366 passengers H1 2025), these upgrades promise efficiency, supporting trade and tourism growth.
Conclusion
More than a mere airstrip, Entebbe International Airport embodies Uganda’s resilient spirit—its expansions and traffic surges heralding a vibrant future as the gateway to the Pearl of Africa’s unparalleled beauty, from misty mountains to savanna spectacles.
Whether decoding the Uganda Airport code (EBB) or plotting your Entebbe Airport flight schedule today, EBB ensures your journey begins with promise.
Ready to dive in? Book your Uganda safari today and begin your journey through Entebbe International Airport—where the skies meet the soul of Africa