10 Best Clubs in East Africa

1. Bubbles O’learys: club in Kampala, Uganda

Let’s kick things off with the most famous club in the party capital of East Africa, Kampala. Originally an Irish pub, Bubbles has become a staple in Kampala's nightlife scene. Half indoors, half outdoors, covered by the branches of massive trees, the hits pump through the night. Bubbles is a wild club where pretty much anything goes. If you knock back twelve tequila shots and start dancing on tables, nobody will bat an eye. The club is also known for its game-playing and pairing dances. Picture older men grinding against the backsides of Ugandan girls in glittery dresses with child-sized waists, or handsome Ugandan guys with dreadlocks and swooning (often European) chicks on their muscular arms. If you're looking to score, Bubbles is the place to be!  

2. The Alchemist: club in Nairobi, Kenya

At The Alchemist in Nairobi, you’ll find a vibrant mix of hipsters, expats, and travelers. This club is hot and happening, and everyone with a little rhythm in their body heads here. Get low on the R&B nights, or sway back and forth to reggae. If you prefer to stomp your heels to techno, The Alchemist has you covered! But even culture seekers will have a blast here. They screen films and organize flea markets, making it a spot for both dancing and discovering something new. The Alchemist is perfect if you're feeling a bit homesick, because with so many expats around, it almost feels like you're in the Netherlands—except with palm trees and warm weather!  

3. Havoc Nightspot: club in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

If you’re in Dar es Salaam and feeling like flaunting your finest outfit, definitely pay a nighttime visit to Havoc Nightspot. This club feels like a shiny spaceship inhabited by elite aliens. The round glass windows offer a stunning view of Dar’s skyline, and the glowing disco floor calls for you to show off your sexiest dance moves. Loosely translated: it’s all about being in the sky, with diamonds on your neck, living your best glamorous life!

4. Guvnor: club in Kampala, Uganda

If you're in the capital of the Pearl of Africa and ready to strut in your tallest heels, Guvnor is the place to be. This club is a hotspot for Ugandan celebrities sporting oversized sunglasses and eye-popping bling around their necks. Upon arrival, you’ll find shiny cars parked outside and a red carpet leading you to pose for a photo. Make sure to book a VIP table, where you’ll get a hefty bottle of drink for that extra exclusive feel. The fun part? You’ll hardly see any foreigners here—it's all about the locals and Afrobeat tracks keeping the vibe alive!

5. Signature: club in Kisumu, Kenya

In the lively Kenyan town of Kisumu, where our own Charlie's adventure once began, the nightlife is alive and kicking with sizzling nightclubs. Signature is always packed, so you won't be short of physical contact with your attractive fellow party-goers. This club is hot and sexy but far from trashy. Dance the night away to Nigerian beats while various body parts rhythmically grind against you. When you stumble out of the club at dawn, satisfied and with flushed cheeks, you'll know that partying back in the Netherlands will never be the same again.

6. Cholo’s: club in Zanzibar, Tanzania

A large part of East Africa borders the Indian Ocean, offering stunning coastlines. So, a beach club should definitely be included in this list. If you happen to be on Zanzibar, an island in Tanzania with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, make sure to visit Cholo’s. This sandy, wooden, back-to-bounty club is located right on the beach. At Cholo’s, you can enjoy cold sundowner beers and cocktails while lounging in a comfy beach chair. Or, you can dance barefoot all night long with sand between your toes. Cholo’s plays a mix of top-40 hits, attracting tourists with stiff hips, but that’s quickly forgotten after a midnight dip in the warm ocean water.

7. The Bourbon: club in Jinja, Uganda

In Jinja, a city in Uganda, the second-longest river in the world, the Nile, originates. Nestled in the lush bush along the rugged banks of the Nile, you’ll find this hidden party gem. Cocktails go down like lemonade, ice-cold beers, and lively parties with a vibrant mix of African and Western music styles. The young German owner, Tobias, is a true gin enthusiast and ensures it flows generously into tropical mixes through the Bourbon. You can come here to meditate by the river sounds, lounge with a cold drink in hand, or dip your toes in the water during sunrise.

8. The Square: club in Kampala, Uganda

Did you accidentally hop on a plane to Berlin? No worries, you’re just in Uganda, even though this club in the middle of an industrial area has the same raw vibe. The Square sits on top of an industrial building, offering stunning views of the hills of Kampala lit up at night. The Square isn’t exactly a club, but more of an event space where pounding EDM parties are held and hipster Ugandans – but mostly expats – drink their beers. Popular, often female DJs spin hypnotic tribal house all night while dance battles unfold on the concrete dance floor. This industrial space is also used for various other events, from swinging reggae bands to artistic photography exhibitions.

9. Havana: bar in Nairobi, Kenya

Havana is your best bet if you're looking to make some new friends in Nairobi. This bar, which is supposed to be indoors, has people chatting in front of their door at least every thursday, friday, saturday. You'll find a mix of expats, tourists and Kenyans here who all mingle, have a drink and celebrate the weekend. Aiming for a long night? Then start here and move towards the neighbours, Muze, later in the evening.  

10. Sheba Lounge: club in Mombasa, Kenya

Sheba Lounge in Mombasa is a vibrant Ethiopian-themed club located by the Indian Ocean, offering the perfect spot to lounge and unwind. You’ll be surrounded by the sweet scent of hookah smoke, and if you need a bit of fresh air, head up to the rooftop terrace. Whether it's Tuesday or Saturday, Hakuna Matata – Sheba Lounge is buzzing almost every day. The place is filled with hip people, large cocktails, beautiful faces, and even more stunning booties, all accompanied by great beats. What more could you want for a fun night out?