Entebbe

Entebbe is a relaxed resort on the shores of Lake Victoria. It makes a pleasant stopover, very convenient for the international airport.

Although it has ceded all wider functions to nearby Kampala, Entebbe was a British colonial administrative and commercial centre in the late 19th century. Dating from this time is the National Botanical Garden - well laid out and notable for abundant birdlife among its indigenous trees.

The Wildlife Education Centre is based around its animal orphanage, protecting rare and threatened species. Residents include lions, less often seen small predators and black rhino. The famous shoebill stork may also be seen at close quarters.

Operation Entebbe is depicted in the Last King of Scotland as elite Israeli commandoes rescue hostages from the hijacked Air France plane. The self-inflicted humiliation, in 1976, was the beginning of the end for President Idi Amin.