In Kampala, they use Type G power plugs and outlets. The voltage is 240V, and the frequency is 50Hz.
⚠️ So, you’ll need a travel adapter in Kampala. Their plugs and outlets are different from the Type A and B ones we use back in the States.
Quick Overview of the Plugs in Kampala:
- Plug type in Kampala: G
- Standard voltage: 240V
- Frequency: 50Hz
- Need a travel adapter? Yes, you do need a travel adapter
- Need a voltage converter? Don’t assume — check the power specs
- Recommended plug adapter: One Beat Travel Plug Adapter
Every piece of information here is confirmed with official electrical guidelines, IEC international standards, and firsthand insights from travelers worldwide.
Power Outlets in Kampala
In Kampala, they use Type G power plugs and outlets.
Type G
Type G outlets have three rectangular prongs in a triangular layout and built-in fuses. Other plug types won’t fit without an adapter.
The Only Travel Adapter You’ll Need in Kampala
Don’t let the wrong adapter ruin your trip. We don’t sell them, but we’ve done all the research to find the best one for Kampala—so you can charge up stress-free. Here’s the one we recommend:
If you’re already on your way—or even at your destination—and realized you forgot a power adapter, no big deal. In most countries, you can usually grab one at the airport or pick one up at a nearby shop.
That said, it’s a smart move to get one ahead of time for your next trip. You’ll know it works, skip the last-minute scramble, and avoid getting stuck with a cheap one that might not hold up.
Kampala is often visited together with Rwanda, Kenya, or Tanzania. Always check which plug type you’ll need before you go.
Do You Need a Voltage Converter?
Your electronics must match the voltage of the country you’re visiting, and in Kampala, the voltage is different from the 120V we use in the U.S. That means you’ll probably need a converter.
Always double-check the label on your device before using it abroad. If it shows “100-240V, 50/60 Hz”, your device is dual voltage and works on both 120V and 220-240V power sources without a converter. This is common for laptops, tablets, smartphones, cameras, and electric toothbrushes.
Which Travel Devices May Need a Converter?
Don’t want to guess which converter works? Here are the best-reviewed ones worth checking out.
| Device | Need Converter? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Phone | ❌ No (usually) | Most modern phone chargers are dual voltage (100–240V) |
| Laptop | ❌ No (usually) | Check the power brick label for 100–240V |
| Hairdryer | ✅ Yes (often) | High wattage; many models are not dual voltage |
| Electric toothbrush | ⚠️ Check voltage | Some models are 110V only |
| Camera / DSLR | ❌ No (usually) | Most chargers are dual voltage |
| Power bank | ❌ No | Charges via USB, adapter is enough |
| Electric shaver / trimmer | ⚠️ Check voltage | Older or cheaper models may not support 230V |
| Tablet / iPad | ❌ No | All models are dual voltage |
| Portable fan | ✅ Yes (sometimes) | Many models are not compatible with 230V |
| Game console | ⚠️ Check voltage | Newer consoles like PS5 and Xbox are often dual voltage — check to be sure |
| Bluetooth speaker | ❌ No (usually) | Charges via USB |
| E-reader (Kindle, etc.) | ❌ No | USB charging only, no converter needed |
Top Travel Essentials to Pack
Some items are worth their spot in your bag. These travel-friendly tools are small, light, and surprisingly useful.
Power Bank
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More About Kampala
Kampala is Uganda’s electric, hill-knotted capital—home to nearly 1.9 million city residents and over 6 million in the metro area. Built across seven original hills (now grown much more), the city blends bustling markets, lively nightlife, and green hills for skyline views. It’s a hub of history, culture, and commerce—sites like the Uganda Museum and Kasubi Tombs pack deep meaning alongside vibrant street life. Kampala hums with the energy of street vendors, music, and boda-boda (motorbike) taxis weaving through city blocks.
Owino Market and Nakasero Market are major draws—vibrant trading hubs where locals source everything from clothing to fresh catch off Lake Victoria. Neighborhoods like Kabalagala and Kololo come alive after dark with cafés, live music venues, and night food scene serving chic meal deals and even roasted grasshoppers for the adventurous. At the Ndere Cultural Centre you can catch traditional dance, drama, and music shows that feel alive and rooted in local identity. It’s urban, messy, real—and endlessly fascinating.
For U.S. travelers Kampala offers a full-throttle city experience without the overwhelm. English is widely spoken, buses and tuk-tuks make exploring simple, and you’ll find clean hotels and guesthouses in most areas. Street food and local eateries feel safe and flavorful, and guided day trips are easy to book—whether it’s to a national park, the equator line, or an arts festival. It’s the kind of capital that reveals layers over time—colorful, chaotic, welcoming—and full of stories to take home.
Kampala uses the same plugs and outlets as the rest of Uganda.