Fly through a fair share of airports and honestly Entebbe international airport OR Kigali International airport will become one of your favorites. European and Middle East airports are too big and busy, most African airports are too hectic, while American airports are on security overload. Here’s why I think Entebbe/Kigali international airports rocks.

1. Shopping!
Generally you may not be much of a shopper, but when it comes to awesome African crafts, you will like to have some souvenirs for yourself. I’m always in a crazy rush when I fly, especially international flights. No matter how much I plan, I never have time to get all the last minute gifts I want to take to my overseas friends. Lucky for me the selection of African crafts at Entebbe airport is excellent. It may be a little more expensive than your average craft market but the quality and selection of African craft on offer are worth the few extra bucks. I can never resist the little beaded trinkets, funky African earrings, beads or wood carvings.

2. The Airport Taxis
Entebbe is definitely a town that is challenged when it comes to public transport. That’s why it’s such a pleasure to travel with the airport taxi. Using the taxi is convenient to get to the airport from the major hubs, especially during rush hour where the roads are a mess. Even better, I don’t have to brave the airport traffic to fetch family and friends from the airport anymore. I just tell them to hop on the airport taxi and fetch them from my house gate.

3. Parking services
If the airport taxi isn’t working for you, my biggest tip for Ugandan residents to make air travel less painful is to use one of the Entebbe airport parking services. It takes the hassle out of parking, so you don’t need to get to the airport as early as you normally would. It’s especially useful for early morning departures / late arrivals and making the airport peak time rush easier. The Parking is very reliable and it offers the most competitive price and they wash your car at an extra charge. For someone who never has time for the car-wash, this is perfect!

4. Airport Security
Airport security at Entebbe airport is fairly painless and quick, both through domestic and international departures. You will seriously appreciate how quick and easy airport security at Entebbe International airport is. It also helps that the staff are friendly.

5. Range of Food Options
Compared to other international airports, food at Entebbe International airport is well priced with a good variety on offer – from your standard fast food fare to more exotic and healthier options. Try these restaurants for a quick smoothie and good coffee.

6. Airport Lounges
Experience a few of the lounges at Entebbe International airport, which are of the highest standards in comparison to some of the ones you have experienced in your international travels. The service has always been excellent with a good choice of fresh food and beverages.

7. Ugandan hospitality
From the security people to the sweet cleaning, you will always find the staff at the Entebbe airport friendly. A few times I’ve been through the Duty Free area, there has been a lively display of local music, drums and dance that makes my heart swell with pride. Besides entertaining the tourists, I think it a great way to entice travelers to buy more Ugandan made souvenirs before departure.

8. African Music
I love that there’s always proudly Ugandan and international music playing in the background. This is especially comforting when you’ve been overseas for a while, and you arrive off the plane tired and homesick. Your first impression is the sweet sounds of local music or African music welcoming you to the pearl of Africa “Home sweet home”.

9. Ugandan Art and Exhibitions
Entebbe airport has some stunning Ugandan art adorning its halls. Check out some of the massive portraits in the arrivals baggage collection area. Check for modern Ugandan in craft shops around the airport.

10. Range of services
There’s a host of useful services available at Entebbe airport, especially useful for the frequent traveler. You can do your banking, get your hair done and even have a quickie massage should you have time to spare before your flight. The Entebbe international airport also has a pharmacy, doctors and a post office. While other international airports are huge and impersonal, I find the size of Entebbe international airport just right not to be too crowded (barring peak times), with most parts of the airport within a 5 minute walk.
What I appreciate most about Entebbe airport is that it caters for a travelers needs with convenience.

Do you have any tips for travelers using Entebbe/Kigali International airport? Feel free to leave any comment right here!