
Buganda Road Craft Market
A bustling marketplace in Kampala offering a vibrant array of authentic Ugandan handicrafts, from intricate wood carvings to colorful textiles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better selection

Buganda Road Craft Market
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better selection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling marketplace in Kampala offering a vibrant array of authentic Ugandan handicrafts, from intricate wood carvings to colorful textiles.
"Discover unique treasures and practice your bargaining skills at this lively hub of Ugandan artistry."

💰 Master the Art of Haggling
Prices are negotiable! Start lower than you're willing to pay and meet in the middle. :moneywithwings:
🚶♀️ Explore Every Stall
Don't settle for the first shop. Wander through to find unique pieces and better deals. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Intricate Wood Carvings
Discover detailed wooden sculptures, masks, and figurines showcasing Ugandan artistry.

Vibrant African Textiles
Explore colorful Kitenge fabrics, woven baskets, and unique clothing items.

Handmade Jewelry
Find unique necklaces, bracelets, and earrings crafted from beads, seeds, and local materials.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigate the Market Maze
Authentic Souvenir Hunting
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Master the Art of Haggling
Prices are negotiable! Start lower than you're willing to pay and meet in the middle. :moneywithwings:
🚶♀️ Explore Every Stall
Don't settle for the first shop. Wander through to find unique pieces and better deals. :walking:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Kampala can be warm. Carry water, especially if you plan to spend a few hours browsing. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Colors
The market is incredibly photogenic! Ask vendors before taking close-ups of their crafts. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Master the Art of Haggling
Prices are negotiable! Start lower than you're willing to pay and meet in the middle. :moneywithwings:
🚶♀️ Explore Every Stall
Don't settle for the first shop. Wander through to find unique pieces and better deals. :walking:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Kampala can be warm. Carry water, especially if you plan to spend a few hours browsing. :droplet:
📸 Capture the Colors
The market is incredibly photogenic! Ask vendors before taking close-ups of their crafts. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Buganda Road Craft Market for its wide selection of authentic Ugandan handicrafts and the vibrant shopping experience. While the bargaining can be intense, most find it a fun part of the culture. Some note that prices can be high initially, requiring negotiation skills.
"Handicraft stores"
Abdulrahman Alhumaidi
""
Romy Billionaire
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Ashraf Tour Guide
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The market is centrally located on Buganda Road in Kampala. You can easily reach it by taxi or boda-boda (motorcycle taxi). Many locals know it simply as the 'craft market'.
Yes, many local taxis and minibuses (matatus) pass by or near Buganda Road, making it accessible via public transport from various parts of Kampala.
From Entebbe Airport, you can take a taxi directly to the market, which is about a 45-60 minute drive depending on traffic. Alternatively, take a taxi to Kampala city center and then a local taxi or boda-boda.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to browse the Buganda Road Craft Market. You only pay for the items you choose to purchase.
The market is generally open daily from morning until early evening, typically around 8 AM to 6 PM. However, hours can vary slightly depending on the vendors.
No booking is required to visit the market. It's a walk-in experience for shoppers.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Bargaining
Absolutely! Bargaining is a key part of the shopping experience here. Vendors expect you to negotiate prices, so don't be shy to offer a lower price and work towards a compromise.
You'll find a wide array of Ugandan handicrafts, including wood carvings, beaded jewelry, woven baskets, Kitenge fabrics, leather goods, and traditional art pieces.
Look for items that show intricate detail and craftsmanship. While most vendors are genuine, comparing prices and quality across different stalls can help. Some vendors, like Ndugu Creations, have dedicated shops within the market.
The local currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). Some vendors may accept US Dollars, but it's best to have Shillings for smaller purchases and better rates.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, you can generally take photos of the crafts and the market atmosphere. However, it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up shots of vendors or their specific displays.
There are no official restrictions, but be mindful of people's privacy. Avoid intrusive photography and always ask if you're unsure.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Souvenir Seekers on a Budget
Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Bargaining
It's also helpful to have an idea of what similar items cost if you've seen them elsewhere. However, the unique nature of handmade crafts means prices can vary. The goal is to reach a price that both you and the vendor are happy with. Many visitors find the bargaining process to be a fun and engaging part of their cultural experience.
Discovering Unique Ugandan Crafts
Beyond these popular items, keep an eye out for leather goods, pottery, and traditional musical instruments. Some stalls specialize in specific crafts, so take your time to explore. For instance, Ndugu Creations offers unique items and has a shop within the market, suggesting a focus on curated pieces. The sheer variety ensures that whether you're looking for a small memento or a significant piece of art, you're likely to find something special that captures the spirit of Uganda.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit