
Uganda National Mosque (Gaddafi Mosque)
East Africa's largest mosque, a stunning architectural marvel with panoramic city views from its minaret.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the spiritual atmosphere

Uganda National Mosque (Gaddafi Mosque)
Best Time
Experience the spiritual atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
East Africa's largest mosque, a stunning architectural marvel with panoramic city views from its minaret.
"Climb the minaret for incredible city views and admire the blend of global craftsmanship."

👗 Modest Dress Required
Cover shoulders and knees. Scarves are provided if needed.
💰 Tip Your Guide
Local guides enhance your visit; tipping is appreciated.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Minaret City Views
Minaret Tower
Ascend to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of Kampala's seven hills. A truly unforgettable perspective.

Stunning Islamic Architecture
Main Prayer Hall
Admire the intricate details, stained glass from Italy, and imported furnishings that showcase a blend of global craftsmanship.

Historical Significance
Throughout the Mosque
Learn about its history, from initial construction by Idi Amin to completion as a gift from Muammar Gaddafi.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code is Key
Climb for City Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Modest Dress Required
Cover shoulders and knees. Scarves are provided if needed.
💰 Tip Your Guide
Local guides enhance your visit; tipping is appreciated.
🚶♀️ Climb the Minaret
Incredible city views await at the top!
📸 Capture the Details
The architecture and interiors are incredibly photogenic.
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Modest Dress Required
Cover shoulders and knees. Scarves are provided if needed.
💰 Tip Your Guide
Local guides enhance your visit; tipping is appreciated.
🚶♀️ Climb the Minaret
Incredible city views await at the top!
📸 Capture the Details
The architecture and interiors are incredibly photogenic.
🙏 Respectful Visit
Be mindful of prayer times and worshippers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Gaddafi Mosque for its stunning architecture, historical significance, and the breathtaking panoramic views from its minaret. The guided tours are informative, and the opportunity to witness prayer calls adds to the spiritual experience. Some visitors note the strict dress code, though robes are available.
"While on Kampala City Tour, Visiting Gaddafi Mosque is a “Must do “Activity ! The Mosque is rich in history as it was first built by President Iddi Amin who unfortunately was exiled before its completion until the former President of Libya took responsibility of reconstructing it.
It is made of beautiful architectural designs of African, Arabic and European decent!
While at the Mosque tower, you are able to view the seven hills that made Kampala of today!
I would highly recommend visiting the Mosque during your Kampala city tour!"
Bukiire Africa Wildlife Safaris
"Lively domestic. Enjoyed the tour guide. Witnessed the call to prayer while inside. We were able to climb to the top of the minaret and see the whole city from a bird’s eye view."
Nicole Samaha
"This mosque is on the hill at the center of Kampala. I highly recommend the climb on top of the minaret. The interior is an interesting mix of Arabic and African craftmanship."
martin chamussy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Uganda National Mosque, also known as Gaddafi Mosque, is located on Old Kampala Hill. You can easily reach it by taxi or boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) from anywhere in Kampala. Many city tours include it as a stop.
Yes, taxis and boda-bodas are readily available around the mosque area, making it easy to continue your journey or return to your accommodation.
Consider booking a guided Kampala city tour that includes the Gaddafi Mosque. This often simplifies transportation and provides historical context.
The mosque is situated on Old Kampala Hill, offering a central point for exploring other historical sites within the city.
While possible, it's a significant walk uphill. Taking a taxi or boda-boda is generally recommended for comfort and efficiency.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee, and you will be assigned a local guide who will explain the mosque's history and significance.
The mosque is generally open to visitors outside of prayer times. It's best to check current hours upon arrival or with your tour operator.
The entrance fee typically covers access to the mosque grounds and the minaret climb. Confirm this with the ticket office.
Visitors are generally asked to wait until after prayer times to enter the main prayer halls to respect worshippers.
Information on group or student discounts is not widely publicized, but it's worth inquiring at the ticket counter.
🎫 🕌 Onsite Experience
Modest attire is mandatory. Women must cover their hair, arms, and legs. Men should wear long trousers and cover their shoulders. Scarves and robes are available for loan.
Photography is generally allowed in designated areas, but it's important to be respectful and avoid photographing people during prayer.
A visit, including the guided tour and minaret climb, usually takes about 1-2 hours.
The climb involves many stairs and may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues. However, you can still enjoy views from lower levels.
The mosque features a blend of African, Arabic, and European architectural influences, with imported materials like Italian stained glass and Turkish carpets.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within the mosque premises. However, numerous local eateries and restaurants are available in the surrounding areas of Kampala.
You can find a variety of Ugandan cuisine, including local staples like matoke (steamed plantains), ugali (maize porridge), and various grilled meats and stews.
As a predominantly Muslim country, Kampala offers abundant halal food options, especially in areas with a significant Muslim population.
Explore the local markets or ask your guide for recommendations on authentic Ugandan dishes in nearby restaurants.
It is generally recommended to drink bottled or purified water to avoid any potential stomach issues.
📸 📸 Photography
The minaret offers stunning panoramic city views. The intricate interior details, stained glass windows, and the grand prayer hall are also excellent subjects.
While generally permitted, avoid photographing individuals without their consent, especially during prayer times. Be respectful of the sacred space.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for both exterior and interior shots. Early morning can also be good before crowds build.
Tripod usage might be restricted, especially during busy periods. It's advisable to check with mosque authorities upon arrival.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the grand scale of the mosque, while a standard zoom can handle interior details. A phone camera is also sufficient for most visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the minaret climb offers amazing views, consider your children's stamina and comfort with heights. If they are young or have mobility concerns, focus on exploring the beautiful prayer halls and learning from the guide. Ensure everyone adheres to the modest dress code, and utilize the provided scarfs and robes if needed.
🕌 Muslim Travelers
As a major Islamic center, you'll find ample halal food options in the vicinity. The mosque's central location in Kampala also makes it convenient for planning your itinerary around prayer times and exploring other parts of the city.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Focus on capturing the interplay of light through the stained glass windows, the intricate patterns of the carpets, and the calligraphy on the walls. Be mindful of respectful photography, especially during prayer times, and inquire about any restrictions on equipment like tripods.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels and Global Influences
This fusion of global artistry creates a unique and visually captivating experience for visitors. The interior is spacious and designed to accommodate thousands of worshippers, reflecting its importance as a central hub for the Muslim community in Uganda. The blend of African craftsmanship with Middle Eastern and European elements makes it a fascinating study in architectural heritage.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the mosque holds historical weight, having been initiated by President Idi Amin before its completion under Gaddafi's patronage. This layered history adds another dimension to its significance, making it more than just a building but a symbol of past eras and international relations.
Experiencing Kampala from Above: The Minaret Climb
The climb itself is an adventure, with numerous steps leading you upwards. While it requires some physical effort, the reward is immense. From the vantage point, you can identify key landmarks and appreciate the sprawling urban landscape. Even climbing to a mid-level offers a fantastic perspective, so don't feel discouraged if the full ascent seems daunting.
This elevated experience provides a unique context for your visit to Kampala, allowing you to see the city in a way that ground-level exploration cannot offer. It's a moment to pause, take in the scenery, and truly connect with the vibrant capital of Uganda.
Respectful Visitation: Dress Code and Etiquette
If you arrive without appropriate attire, the mosque provides free scarfs and robes for visitors to borrow. This thoughtful provision ensures that everyone can participate in the experience without feeling excluded. It's a good idea to check the fit and comfort of borrowed items.
Beyond attire, maintaining a respectful demeanor is crucial. Be mindful of prayer times and avoid loud conversations or disruptive behavior within the mosque premises. Your cooperation helps preserve the peaceful and spiritual atmosphere for worshippers and fellow visitors.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit