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Entebbe Old Airport Terminal
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The Entebbe Old Airport Terminal is a building of immense historical significance, forever linked to the dramatic 1976 hostage situation and subsequent rescue mission. Built in the 1970s, the terminal served as Uganda's primary international gateway until the new terminal complex was constructed. On June 27, 1976, an Air France flight was hijacked to Entebbe, and the hostages were held in the transit hall of this very terminal. The crisis culminated on July 4, 1976, with Operation Entebbe, a daring commando raid by the Israel Defense Forces. The raid resulted in the rescue of over 100 hostages. The building sustained significant damage during the assault, particularly to the control tower. Today, the old terminal still stands and is primarily used for VIP and special government flights. Bullet holes have been left on the walls, serving as a silent testament to the events of 1976. For many, it is a site of pilgrimage and a memorial to the victims and heroes of that tense international episode.
- Location: Uganda
- Top sights: Park Shoebill - Shoebill birding boat trip · Horizon Resort · Waiya Bay
- Nearby: Mpigi (22 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 86 | 82 | 175 | 223 | 176 | 61 | 49 | 84 | 108 | 149 | 185 | 138 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The old airport terminal is usually not open to the public as it is a restricted area. You can view the historic building from the outside along the fence.
Typical hours
The outdoor area is accessible 24/7 as it's part of the airport fence. Best time to visit is during daylight hours when the area is clearly visible and safe.
Photography
Photograph the terminal from the walkway along the fence, but avoid security areas. The best perspective is from the road leading to the current airport's main entrance.
Time needed
Allow about 15 to 20 minutes for the exterior viewing and reading any information panels. A longer stay is not worthwhile as the interior is inaccessible.
Combine with
Combine this visit with a walk through Entebbe Botanical Gardens, just 10 minutes away. Also nearby is the Entebbe Wildlife Education Centre worth a visit.
Getting there
The old terminal is on the grounds of Entebbe International Airport, reachable by taxi or boda-boda from Entebbe town. Public buses from Kampala go to the airport, then a short walk.
Insider tip
Read up on the history of Operation Entebbe before your visit to better appreciate the site. Bring binoculars to spot details of the old architecture from a distance.
Geography
Facts
- The site of the 1976 hijacking of Air France Flight 139.
- The rescue mission was carried out by Israeli commandos on July 4, 1976.
- 102 hostages were rescued during the raid.
- The Israeli unit commander, Yonatan Netanyahu, was killed in action.
- The building is now used for UN missions and presidential flights.
- Bullet holes from the raid are still visible on the building's exterior.
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Sights in the town Entebbe Old Airport Terminal (4)
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Frequently asked questions
What is the old Entebbe terminal?
A historically significant airport area in Entebbe.
Can it be visited?
Only partially, often security restrictions are in place.
Why is it historically known?
Because of the 1976 Entebbe operation.
Is photography allowed there?
No, photography at the airport is usually forbidden.
How do I get to the airport?
By taxi or shuttle from Kampala.
Entebbe Old Airport Terminal: where is it located?
Entebbe Old Airport Terminal is located in Uganda.
Entebbe Old Airport Terminal: what is there to see?
Highlights include Park Shoebill - Shoebill birding boat trip, Horizon Resort, Waiya Bay.
Entebbe Old Airport Terminal: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Entebbe Old Airport Terminal: why is it worth visiting?
The Entebbe Old Airport Terminal is a building of immense historical significance, forever linked to the dramatic 1976 hostage situation and subsequent rescue mission.
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