If you’re in Kampala, Uganda, and love seafood, you can’t miss the MULUNGU Fish Market! Located by the beautiful shores of Lake Victoria near Munyonyo, Kampala, this lively market is filled with delicious fresh fish and the energetic vibe that makes Uganda’s capital so special.
As you approach the market, vendors rush over to try and sell you their fish. Unlike in some other markets, these vendors are generally polite when they come up to you, making it a great chance to kick off your experience at the mulungu fish market. Since the market also functions like a restaurant, they can prepare the fish however you like. Every time I’ve visited, I’ve chosen to have it deep-fried, served with fries and sweet potatoes on the side. The cost changes based on the size of the fish and the sides you choose, but typically, a fish plate costs around 35,000 – 55.000 shillings UGX.
Also, don’t forget to keep yourself hydrated! There are many different drinks to choose from. You can find a wide range of local beverages. They offer everything from regular Coca-Cola branded sodas to delicious, freshly squeezed sugar cane juice. You will find the price of these drinks to be above average than the rest of area, but are normal for restaurants.
Tips for visiting
Ideal Visiting Hours: Get there early in the day to snag the freshest seafood and soak in the lively atmosphere of the market.
Negotiating Prices: You can often negotiate prices, so feel free to bargain a bit. Most vendors will start out with a very high price if they see you are a foreigner.
Cleanliness: The market can get pretty busy, so keep hygiene in mind when buying food. Choose vendors who keep their stalls tidy.
The Bar Above The Fish Market
There’s a neat little bar located above the fish market where you can enjoy a cold Nile, which is the most common local beer in Uganda, after having some fish. Sundays tend to be super crowded, so if you’re looking for a quieter experience, it’s better to visit on a different day.
Honestly, the bar is not just a place to grab a drink; it’s a spot where people come together. I used to hang out with my friends there all the time. It has a stunning view of Lake Victoria, and you can even get fresh fish to eat if you don’t want to sit by the little dirt area behind the market. Plus, there’s always fun entertainment, making each visit unforgettable. Whether you live nearby and need a break or you’re a visitor wanting to experience the local nightlife, this bar is a must-see that really shows off the lively spirit of Kampala.
Boat Ride
Just 5 meters away from the market, there are a few different boats where you can take a boat ride. I’ve gone on these rides a couple of times with my wife just to enjoy the experience. They can be a bit pricey depending on how long you want to ride, but I think it’s worth it!
Horse Ride
At Speke Resort, you have the chance to go on a horse ride right inside the resort. The ride takes about 30 minutes and costs 100,000 shillings per person if a remember correct – their website prices is outdated. It’s a great way to create some unforgettable memories, and capture some nice pictures.
How to get there ?
If you find yourself in or near Kampala, most Boda drivers will know the Mulungu fish market in Munyonyo. Just tell a boda driver to take you there and make sure to agree on a price before you hop on. Remember to use your common sense when riding bodas, since some drivers might not be as skilled as others. If you’re willing to pay a bit more, you can also ask the boda driver to wait for you at the Mulungu fish market while you enjoy your meal.
You can also download the Uber app or the SafeBoda app. They might be a little pricier, but they are safer, and you know the price upfront, so you won’t have to deal with bargaining with anyone.
Mulungu Fish Market is in or near:
- Munyonyo
- Speke Resort
- Munyonyo Roundabout
- Mulungu Beach
- Jahazi Pier
Final Thoughts
Going to Mulungu Fish Market is a fantastic experience for anyone who loves fresh seafood and a fun vibe. The tasty food, stunning views of the ocean, and warm hospitality make for a dining experience that you’ll remember for a long time. Whether you’re a seafood expert or just want to try something new, this place is a must-visit for a delicious adventure.
So, the next time you find yourself by the coast, don’t forget to check out Mulungu Fish Market and enjoy the amazing flavors of the sea. Your taste buds will be super happy!
oh and before I forget, you can eat every part of the fish (minus the bones) because they have taken away the parts that aren’t good to eat when they cooked the fish. So if you’re feeling adventurous, give the head a try! It’s actually tastier than you might think.