In Kampala there are two big backpackers. The taxi drivers know them and will greet you with ‘Chili? Backpackers? Where you going?’ Most backpackers who’ve passed through Kampala will have stayed at one of these places, many having done a rafting trip to Jinja with one of the affiliated rafting companies.
So how do you decide which one to stay at? You read this! I’ve stayed at both and can offer up some advice if you’re still on the fence. The problem is that both places are decent and there’s no real standout. But each has it’s pluses and minuses that I’ll share with you here.
Red Chili
This backpacker’s is out in the boonies. It’s set on beautiful grounds with lush trees and even a resident pig, but it really is out of the way. If you’re looking to enjoy hostel life before heading off on a rafting trip then it’s a great choice but if you’re in Kampala to enjoy the lively nightlife then Red Chili, tucked away down many scary, potholed roads (more than usual) might not be the best option.
The hostel bar is lively and a nice place to hang out with some comfy chairs. There are some larger tables which makes it easy to meet other travellers as you’re likely to be sitting with others. The food is pretty good and they even had real maple syrup on their pancakes! They have free internet on their computers and free wifi if you have your own. It wasn’t working the night I arrived but kicked in the following morning and it was pretty quick. Staff here are pretty friendly and the folks in the kitchen are really nice, too.
The showers are hot… almost too hot although that’s not something I’d ever complain about! The major downfall with this place (besides the location) is the beds. They’re pretty uncomfortable and the mosquito net tried to suffocate me several times.
Backpackers
This hostel is a lot more central and if you’re arriving by bus it’ll be your best bet as it’s pretty close to the Jaguar bus terminal and to the Old Bus Station as well. If you’re arriving from Rwanda you’ll actually drive right past it so ask your driver if he’ll drop you off.
This place didn’t feel as cozy as Red Chili, but there is still a lot of green space to enjoy. The common bar area isn’t as nice and the many small tables make meeting people a bit tricky. The internet here is free as well with three computers for you to use or wifi if you have your own. The connection was patchy and when it did work, it was really slow. On first impressions, staff here weren’t as friendly as at Red Chili. The food was good but they didn’t have many of the things on their menu.
The best thing about this place has to be the beds. I stayed in the dorm and it was one of the nicest dorm beds I’ve ever encountered. Made of wood, a pretty good mattress, great pillow and really nice sheets and a blanket. The mosquito net was also a bit saggy but after a few repairs it was fine. The showers closest too me didn’t have hot water on any of the three days I tried them. I was only actually able to locate one where it worked which was a small trek to the other side of the hostel.
