Kampala, Uganda
Someone grabs your arm. A taxi goes off-route. A guy won't leave you alone. This free guide covers what to say and do.
CBD has authentic chaos, markets, business energy during daytime. Heavy police but pickpocketing is bad - hide valuables. Empties and becomes unsafe after 6pm. Daytime only destination, constant alertness required.
The CBD is packed from dawn to evening - thousands commute here for work, shopping, business. Modern office buildings, shopping malls, and chaotic street markets selling everything. Safe during business hours (roughly 8am-6pm) when streets are full of workers, shoppers, and police. You'll see suited executives, market vendors calling prices, boda-bodas weaving through gridlock, tourists navigating the chaos. English in formal businesses, Luganda in markets. The energy and authenticity are real, but pickpockets work the crowds hard, especially around taxi parks and markets. Keep your phone hidden and valuables secured. After 6pm when offices close, the area empties fast and becomes unsafe - everyone lives elsewhere and takes taxis home. The switch from busy daytime to empty nighttime is dramatic. Good for daytime exploration and experiencing real Kampala, but leave well before dark.
Daytime Safety
GoodNight Walking Safety
PoorHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
ModeratePickpocketing Risk
HighScam Risk
HighPolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
PoorSolo Dining
GoodDrug Activity
ModerateHomelessness Visibility
HighGetting By in English
GoodThings can happen when you're traveling solo — the pushy vendor, the guy who won't leave, the uneasy walk home at night. This free guide covers 10 of them and what to actually do.
"Exciting during day but overwhelming crowds"
"Hide phone and valuables - pickpockets everywhere"
"Interesting to see but don't stay past 5pm"
"Police around but stay alert"
"Daytime only - take taxi back before dark"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Kampala's 24/7 party district. High energy, significant safety concerns late at night. Go in groups, use taxis constantly, stay alert. Not for first-time visitors or anyone prioritizing safety.
Hipster scene with live music, trendy bars, creative crowd. Safer than Kabalagala but still need caution at night. More authentic than diplomatic areas. Avoid northern Kamwokya slums completely.
Middle-class area with government officials and young professionals. Authentic Kampala life, good amenities, Ndere Cultural Centre for traditional performances. Safe during day, more affordable than upscale areas. Standard nighttime precautions.
Help other women stay safe in Kampala Central / CBD
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.