Old Taxi Park

The Old Taxi Park is centrally located in Kampala. You can easily reach it by local boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis), regular taxis, or by walking if you are in the city center. It's a major landmark, so most drivers will know it.

While apps like Uber and Bolt are available in Kampala, they primarily operate for private car hires. For the local matatu experience within the Old Taxi Park, you'll rely on traditional methods of finding a ride.

The Old Taxi Park serves as a hub for routes connecting Kampala to various city suburbs like Entebbe, Bugolobi, Ntinda, and Nakawa, as well as many towns across Uganda.

Yes, the Old Taxi Park is the primary point for many upcountry journeys. You'll find vehicles heading to numerous towns and regions throughout Uganda.

Look for directional posters on top of the vans and listen for conductors calling out their destinations. If you're unsure, ask a conductor or a local for assistance.

No, there is no entrance fee to enter the Old Taxi Park itself. You only pay for your actual taxi fare once you board a vehicle.

The park operates throughout the day, from early morning until late evening, to accommodate the constant flow of travelers.

Fares are typically paid in cash (Ugandan Shillings) directly to the conductor or driver once you are seated in the matatu.

No, taxis do not have fixed departure times. They depart once all seats are occupied, which can vary depending on the route and time of day.

Advance booking is generally not a feature of the Old Taxi Park. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis as vehicles fill up.

The atmosphere is one of 'organized chaos' – bustling, noisy, and energetic, with hundreds of matatus, conductors, and passengers. It's a sensory experience!

While generally safe, it's a very crowded place. It's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid displaying expensive items.

You'll find numerous street vendors selling snacks, fruits, drinks, and various local goods. It's a great place to grab a quick bite. +1

Absolutely! The vibrant scenes, the sheer number of vehicles, and the local interactions make it a fantastic spot for capturing authentic Ugandan life. +1

If you're just passing through to catch a taxi, it might only take a few minutes. If you want to soak in the atmosphere and observe, allocate at least 30 minutes to an hour.

You won't find formal restaurants inside the park. However, there are many street vendors selling a variety of local snacks, fruits, and quick meals. +1

Expect local favorites like roasted meat, chapati, fruits such as mangoes and bananas, and various fried snacks.

As with any street food, it's advisable to choose vendors that appear clean and busy. Many travelers enjoy the local fare without issues.

There are many local eateries and restaurants in the surrounding streets and markets of Kampala that offer more substantial meals.

Yes, bottled water and various soft drinks are readily available from the numerous vendors within and around the park.

The sheer volume of matatus, the dynamic interactions between conductors and passengers, street vendors, and the general hustle and bustle are prime subjects. +1

It's always respectful to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. However, capturing the general scene is usually fine.

Early mornings and late afternoons offer interesting light. The midday sun can be harsh, but the energy of the park is constant.

Some suggest getting a slightly elevated view, perhaps from a nearby building or overpass if accessible, to capture the scale of the park.

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful. A smaller, discreet camera or smartphone is also good for candid shots without drawing too much attention.