
AFCON 2027 Guide
October 31, 2026
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AFCON in Uganda 2027 will bring Africa’s biggest international football tournament to East Africa. Uganda will co-host the competition alongside Kenya and Tanzania from 19 June to 17 July 2027.
For football supporters, this creates an exciting opportunity to explore Uganda beyond the stadiums. Visitors can discover Kampala, Lake Victoria, national parks, and mountain gorillas during the same holiday.
At Zamunda Travels Uganda Ltd, we help international visitors organise private transport, accommodation, and wildlife safaris. This guide explains the confirmed tournament information and how to plan your visit.
Quick answer: AFCON in Uganda 2027 will run from 19 June to 17 July. Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania will jointly host the tournament. Uganda is preparing stadiums in Namboole, Hoima, and Lira. However, final CAF match allocations, finals ticket prices, and ticket release dates still require official confirmation.
Uganda will participate automatically as a host nation. However, qualification matches continue for other African teams.
The remaining qualification programme runs through March 2027. Therefore, the final tournament lineup will become clearer closer to the competition.
These are 2026 qualifier prices only. They are not confirmed prices for AFCON 2027 finals matches.
Accommodation planning depends on the confirmed match venue.
Kampala, Entebbe, and Hoima offer different advantages. However, hotel availability for specific AFCON dates requires direct confirmation.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is famous for its mountain gorillas.
Visitors join guided treks to search for habituated gorilla families in their natural habitat.
Once visitors reach the gorillas, standard trekking permits allow up to one hour of observation.
However, the forest walk may take several hours.
Therefore, travellers should allow enough time for the journey, trekking activity, and return transfer.
Murchison Falls National Park offers wildlife viewing and Nile boat excursions.
Visitors may see elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, hippos, and antelope species.
Lions also inhabit the park, although sightings depend on conditions.
Additionally, the famous waterfall is a major attraction.
Murchison Falls can be a useful safari extension for travellers spending several days in Uganda.
This programme suits visitors who want football and a short wildlife experience.
However, travellers interested in gorilla trekking should consider a longer holiday.
For example, a ten-day programme could include Bwindi and another western Uganda destination.
Zamunda Travels can customise the route according to confirmed matches and available safari permits.
For example, a seven-day holiday requires accommodation, meals, and local transport.
Next, travellers can add match tickets and sightseeing activities.
Finally, include a contingency allowance for unexpected expenses.
Rates change, so confirm current prices with Zamunda Travels.
Confirmed Dates and Tournament Facts
The official tournament name is TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027. Pamoja means together in Swahili. The name reflects the partnership between Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. CAF confirmed the tournament dates on 2 May 2026. The opening match will take place on Saturday, 19 June 2027. Meanwhile, the final is scheduled for Saturday, 17 July 2027. CAF has not yet confirmed which country will stage the opening match or final.
Confédération Africaine de Football
| Tournament details | Confirmed information |
|---|---|
| Competition | Africa Cup of Nations |
| Edition | AFCON PAMOJA 2027 |
| Host countries | Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania |
| Opening match | 19 June 2027 |
| Final | 17 July 2027 |
| Participating teams | 24 |
| Uganda national team | Uganda Cranes |
| Uganda qualification | Automatic as co-host |
| Uganda’s final match schedule | Not yet published |
Confédération Africaine de Football
Which Stadiums Will Host AFCON 2027 in Uganda?
Uganda’s preparations involve three major stadium projects. These include Mandela National Stadium, Hoima City Stadium, and Akii-Bua Stadium in Lira. However, preparation and inspection do not guarantee a stadium’s final match allocation. CAF must approve the competition venues and publish the official fixture schedule.Mandela National Stadium, Namboole
Mandela National Stadium stands in Namboole, east of central Kampala. It is one of Uganda’s best-known sporting venues. The stadium has hosted international football matches involving the Uganda Cranes. CAF inspected Mandela National Stadium during its September 2026 preparation programme. Inspectors also reviewed hotels, airports, transport, and other tournament facilities.
Confédération Africaine de Football
For international visitors, Kampala offers a practical accommodation base. The city has hotels, restaurants, shopping centres, and transport services.
However, match-day traffic may affect journeys to Namboole.
Hoima City Stadium
Hoima City Stadium is located in western Uganda. The venue forms part of Uganda’s preparations for major international football competitions. Importantly, Hoima is already hosting Uganda Cranes qualifying matches. FUFA confirmed a Uganda–Botswana qualifier there for 14 November 2026.
FUFA: Federation of Uganda Football Associations
This demonstrates the stadium’s role in international football. However, its final AFCON 2027 match allocation still requires CAF confirmation.
Visitors planning to attend matches in Hoima should consider accommodation and transport early.
Akii-Bua Stadium, Lira
Akii-Bua Stadium is another major project associated with Uganda’s tournament preparations. The stadium is located in Lira, northern Uganda. Its name honours John Akii-Bua, Uganda’s Olympic gold medallist. However, supporters should not assume Lira will host a particular AFCON match until CAF confirms the final venues. The safest approach is to follow official announcements before booking non-refundable accommodation.AFCON Uganda Tickets: Prices and How to Buy
Ticket information is one of the most important details for travelling supporters. As of this update, CAF’s final tournament ticket prices and release dates could not be independently verified. Uganda’s AFCON PAMOJA website contains ticketing information and directs visitors towards an online ticket platform. However, that alone does not establish an approved finals price list. Therefore, supporters should confirm ticket announcements directly through CAF and authorised tournament channels.Are AFCON 2027 tickets already on sale?
A verified general-sale launch date for the 2027 finals was not established during this research. However, tickets for Uganda’s 2026 qualifying matches are separate from finals tickets. For example, FUFA announced the following prices for Uganda against Botswana on 14 November 2026:| Ticket category | Qualifier price |
|---|---|
| Ordinary Lower | UGX 20,000 |
| Ordinary Upper | UGX 30,000 |
| VIP | UGX 150,000 |
FUFA: Federation of Uganda Football Associations
To avoid scams, use verified organisers and official ticket announcements. Also, avoid purchasing tickets from unknown social media accounts.
How to Travel to Uganda for AFCON 2027
Entebbe International Airport is Uganda’s main international gateway. The airport serves Entebbe, near Lake Victoria. Kampala lies approximately 40 kilometres away by road, depending on the route and destination. A private transfer to Kampala often takes around one to two hours. However, heavy traffic can increase journey times. Therefore, our guides at Zamunda Travels recommend arriving at least one day before an important match.Uganda visa requirements for AFCON visitors
Uganda operates an official electronic visa application system. Travellers who require visas should apply through the government’s immigration portal before departure. The application process includes submitting travel documents and receiving an electronic decision. Additionally, visitors should check their passport validity. Uganda’s immigration guidance specifies at least six months of passport validity for relevant visa applicants. Some nationalities qualify for visa exemptions. Therefore, requirements depend on the traveller’s citizenship.
Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities+1
Updated yellow fever requirements
Uganda’s immigration authority issued an important announcement on 2 October 2026. The notice states that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is no longer mandatory for entry into Uganda.
NCIC
However, this entry rule does not replace medical advice about vaccination.
Travellers should consult a qualified travel health professional about yellow fever protection, malaria prevention, and routine vaccinations.
Also, check the latest official requirements before travelling in 2027.
Where to Stay During AFCON in Uganda

Kampala, Uganda’s capital, offers accommodation, restaurants, and cultural attractions for visiting football supporters.
Kampala accommodation
Kampala is a convenient base for visitors attending matches around Namboole. Areas such as Ntinda, Naguru, Kololo, and central Kampala offer various accommodation choices. However, hotel location should match your transport arrangements. A shorter distance does not always mean a faster journey because traffic varies.Entebbe accommodation
Entebbe suits visitors arriving late or departing early. The town offers hotels, restaurants, and activities around Lake Victoria. However, travelling from Entebbe to Namboole can take considerable time during busy periods. Therefore, staying in Kampala may be easier for visitors attending several matches.Hoima accommodation
Visitors attending matches in Hoima should prioritise accommodation within a practical driving distance of the stadium. Hotel facilities and available room categories vary. Moreover, tournament demand may affect room availability and booking conditions. Zamunda Travels can help travellers request suitable accommodation and arrange private transfers. Planning tip: Before paying for accommodation, confirm the match location, cancellation policy, and transport arrangements.Things to Do in Uganda During AFCON 2027
Uganda offers several activities for visitors who want more than football. Whether you have one free day or an entire week, there are experiences worth considering.Explore Kampala’s culture
Kampala is Uganda’s capital and a centre for culture, business, and entertainment. Visitors can explore local markets, restaurants, and historical attractions. For example, the Uganda Museum introduces travellers to Uganda’s history and cultural heritage. The Kasubi Tombs also offer insight into the Buganda Kingdom. However, visitors should confirm current access arrangements.Visit Entebbe and Lake Victoria
Entebbe offers a quieter atmosphere than central Kampala. Visitors can explore the botanical gardens or enjoy activities around Lake Victoria. Additionally, the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre provides information about Uganda’s native wildlife. These activities can fit into a free day before departure.Discover Jinja and the Nile
Jinja is a popular destination for adventure activities. Visitors can enjoy Nile boat excursions, white-water rafting, and other outdoor experiences. However, rafting requires suitable safety equipment and professional supervision. Our guides recommend allowing a full day for a Jinja excursion from Kampala.Combine AFCON in Uganda With a Wildlife Safari
One of the best ways to extend an AFCON holiday is to explore Uganda’s national parks. Uganda offers mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee experiences, wildlife game drives, and birdwatching. At Zamunda Travels, we recommend planning these activities around confirmed football fixtures.Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Visitors attending AFCON 2027 can extend their holiday with mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park offers wildlife safaris and Nile boat excursions for visitors extending their AFCON 2027 holiday.
Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park
Kibale National Park is one of Uganda’s leading chimpanzee destinations. Visitors can join guided forest walks to observe chimpanzees. The park also supports other primate species and rich forest biodiversity. However, chimpanzee permits should be arranged in advance.Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo offers a shorter safari option for visitors travelling from Kampala. The park supports zebras, impalas, buffaloes, and other wildlife. Depending on availability, travellers can enjoy game drives and guided nature activities. Therefore, it can suit visitors with limited time between football matches.Sample Seven-Day AFCON Uganda Holiday
The following itinerary combines football, culture, and wildlife. It assumes a confirmed match near Kampala. However, the programme can change according to CAF’s final fixtures.| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive at Entebbe International Airport and transfer to Kampala |
| Day 2 | Kampala city tour and cultural experiences |
| Day 3 | Attend a confirmed AFCON match |
| Day 4 | Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park and enjoy a game drive |
| Day 5 | Morning wildlife activity and return to Kampala |
| Day 6 | Explore Entebbe and Lake Victoria |
| Day 7 | Airport transfer and departure |
How Much Does an AFCON Uganda Holiday Cost?
The total cost depends on travel dates, hotel category, match tickets, and activities. As of this update, verified AFCON 2027 finals ticket prices are not available. Therefore, a reliable holiday quotation should separate confirmed costs from estimates.| Expense | Budget consideration |
|---|---|
| International flights | Airline, departure city, and booking date |
| Accommodation | Hotel category, number of nights, and room type |
| Match tickets | Official finals prices once published |
| Transport | Airport transfers and match-day journeys |
| Meals | Daily food and drinks |
| Safari | Vehicle, guide, accommodation, permits, and park fees |
| Insurance | Medical and travel disruption cover |
Weather and Packing Tips for AFCON 2027
June and July generally fall within Uganda’s drier seasons. However, rainfall remains possible, especially in forested regions. Kampala often experiences warm days and cooler evenings. Therefore, visitors should pack clothing suitable for changing weather. Useful items include comfortable shoes, lightweight clothes, a rain jacket, sunscreen, and a power bank. Also, carry your passport, travel documents, and any prescribed medication. For gorilla trekking, bring sturdy footwear, long trousers, and rain protection.Safety Tips for AFCON Visitors
Large football tournaments attract busy crowds. Therefore, visitors should use reliable transport and follow stadium security instructions. Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying large amounts of cash. Additionally, allow enough time for stadium entry and security checks. Travellers should monitor official travel advisories before departure. For wildlife activities, follow the instructions of trained guides and park rangers.Common Mistakes to Avoid
The first mistake is booking hotels before confirming match venues. Another is assuming that qualifier ticket prices apply to the finals. Some visitors also underestimate travel times between Kampala and western Uganda. For example, gorilla trekking cannot comfortably fit into a short afternoon excursion from Kampala. Finally, avoid buying tickets or safari services from unverified sellers. Good planning helps protect your time and travel budget.Plan Your AFCON 2027 Uganda Safari With Zamunda Travels
AFCON in Uganda 2027 will offer a chance to experience international football alongside Uganda’s wildlife and culture. Whether you want a Kampala city tour, gorilla trekking, or a wildlife safari, Zamunda Travels can help organise your journey. Our team can arrange private transport, accommodation requests, and personalised safari itineraries. We can also adjust your holiday around confirmed match dates. Contact Zamunda Travels Uganda Ltd Website: www.zamundatravels.com Email: info@zamundatravels.com WhatsApp: +256 704 705 606 Explore Uganda beyond the football stadium. Contact Zamunda Travels to plan your AFCON 2027 holiday.Frequently Asked Questions
When will AFCON 2027 take place in Uganda?
AFCON 2027 will run from 19 June to 17 July 2027. Uganda will co-host the tournament with Kenya and Tanzania. However, the exact dates of matches played in Uganda depend on CAF’s final fixture allocations. Supporters should confirm those details before booking stadium-specific accommodation.Which stadiums will host AFCON 2027 in Uganda?
Uganda is preparing Mandela National Stadium in Namboole, Hoima City Stadium, and Akii-Bua Stadium in Lira. However, CAF has not yet published the final match allocations for these venues. Travellers should monitor official announcements before booking non-refundable hotels or transport for a particular stadium.How much are AFCON 2027 tickets in Uganda?
Official prices for the AFCON 2027 finals have not been independently verified. FUFA has published prices for individual qualifying matches, but those prices do not apply automatically to the finals. Supporters should wait for authorised ticket announcements and avoid paying unverified sellers.Do I need a visa or yellow fever certificate to visit Uganda?
Visa requirements depend on nationality. Many travellers must apply through Uganda’s official electronic visa system. However, some nationalities qualify for exemptions. Uganda’s immigration authority announced in October 2026 that yellow fever vaccination certificates are no longer mandatory for entry. Recheck the rules before travelling in 2027.Can I combine AFCON 2027 with gorilla trekking?
Yes. Visitors can combine football matches with gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. However, Bwindi is far from Kampala, so several additional travel days are advisable. Gorilla permits should also be reserved early. Zamunda Travels can arrange a private safari around confirmed football fixtures.Related posts
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