Uganda is about to step onto the biggest stage in African football. In mid-2027, the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) comes to East Africa, with Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania sharing hosting duties under the “Pamoja” bid. For Ugandans, it is a moment of huge national pride. However for visitors, it is a chance to pair the match-days atmospheres with mountain gorillas, chimpanzees savannah sunsets and the warmth of the Pearl of Africa. This guide covers what you need to know about AFCON 2027 in Uganda and how to plan the trip.
What Is AFCON 2027?
The Africa Cup of Nations is the continent’s premier football competition for national teams, run by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The 2027 edition is a landmark for several reasons.
- It is the first AFCON jointly hosted by three countries.
- It marks the tournament’s 70th anniversary and is the last to be held in an odd-numbered year, as AFCON moves to a four-year cycle from 2028.
- 24 teams will compete.
Uganda’s Local Organising Committee has confirmed the tournament will run from June 19 to July 18, 2027. Some reports differ by a day on the closing date, so check CAF’s official calendar when planning.
Where Will AFCON 2027 Matches Be Played in Uganda?
Uganda is expected to use two main stadiums: Mandela National Stadium and Hoima City Stadium. Lira has also been mentioned as a possible host city in some reports.
Mandela National Stadium (Namboole), Kampala. This is Uganda’s best-known football arena, in Namboole Bweyogerere close to the capital’s hotels, restaurants and nightlife. Kampala is the natural base for most fans.
Hoima City Stadium. This newer venue in western Uganda puts matches near the oil-rich Bunyoro region. It is also within reach of Murchison Falls National Park, so football and wildlife can share one itinerary.
Why the Timing Suits a Safari
June and July fall in Uganda’s long dry season, which is one of the best times to travel in Uganda for:
- Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking trails are drier and easier to walk.
- Wildlife gathers around water sources in Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls and Kidepo, which makes game drives more rewarding.
- Roads to national parks are in better condition.
The same dry-season conditions that make the football comfortable also make the safari excellent.
Make the Most of Your AFCON Trip: Experiences to Add
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi or Mgahinga. Spending an hour with a wild mountain gorilla family is the experience most travellers remember longest. Permits are limited and demand will be high around the tournament, so book months ahead.
Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest. Kibale has one of the highest primate densities in Africa and is a good option if gorilla permits sell out.
Murchison Falls National Park. Watch the Nile force through a narrow gorge, then take a launch cruise past hippos, crocodiles and elephants. It pairs well with Hoima matches.
Queen Elizabeth National Park. Look for the famous tree-climbing lions in Ishasha and boat cruise the Kazinga Channel.
Jinja and the Source of the Nile. Go white-water rafting, kayaking or bungee jumping or just relax by the river.
Kampala city culture. Visit the Uganda Museum, the Kasubi Tombs, and the craft markets, and don’t miss a “rolex” (egg-and-chapati roll) from a street vendor.
Practical Tips for Fans
Book early. Hotels, lodges and flights will fill quickly in June and July. Secure accommodation and park permits as soon as your plans are firm.
Check entry requirements. The East Africa Tourist Visa covers Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda, which is useful if you plan to cross borders.
Health preparations. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required, and most travellers take malaria prevention. Talk to a travel clinic before departure.
Plan for traffic. Kampala’s roads get busy on match days. Leave early, use ride-hailing apps such as Bolt or Uber, and allow extra time to reach the stadium.
Carry mobile money and some cash. Mobile money is widely used in Uganda, but cash in Ugandan shillings is handy for markets and small vendors.
Combine Uganda with Kenya or Tanzania
Because the tournament is shared across East Africa, a multi-country trip is easy to imagine. Fans could follow their team across borders, then add the Serengeti, Maasai Mara or Zanzibar’s beaches. Uganda’s gorillas and chimpanzees fit neatly into the same journey.
Plan Your AFCON 2027 Uganda Trip
AFCON 2027 is a chance to see Uganda at its most vibrant: stadiums full of songs and drum and some of Africa’s best wildlife a day’s drive away. The fans who plan early will get the best accommodation, permits and prices. Whether you want a match-day weekend in Kampala, car hire or a two-week journey with gorillas, Murchison Falls and the Nile, a good itinerary makes it easy.
Contact Uganda tourist guide to build a custom Uganda trip around the matches, or explore more guides on UgandaTouristGuide.com. Whatsapp us +18182906623