Kasese Travel Guide (Western Uganda/Uganda/East Africa/Africa)

Introduction to Kasese

Located in Western Uganda, Kasese is a hidden gem for travelers seeking to explore the country’s natural wonders, cultural treasures, and outdoor adventures. Nestled at the foot of the Rwenzori Mountains, commonly known as the Mountains of the Moon, Kasese offers a diverse landscape of towering peaks, lush valleys, and sparkling lakes.

The town of Kasese is the main hub for tourism, with a good range of accommodations, restaurants, and transport connections. Kasese is also a gateway to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most popular wildlife reserves.

List of Places to Visit in Kasese

When it comes to places to visit in Kasese, there is no shortage of options. From museums and historical sites to outdoor adventures and scenic views, Kasese has something for everyone.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kasese has a rich cultural history, and there are a number of museums and historical sites that reflect this heritage.

Kaiso Tonya Cultural Village: This open-air museum showcases the traditions and lifestyles of the local Bakonzo people. Visitors can take a guided tour through the village, learn about traditional crafts, and watch cultural dances and performances.
Kasanda Heritage Site: This site is home to some of the oldest rock paintings in Uganda, dating back to the Stone Age. The paintings depict hunting scenes, social rituals, and other aspects of ancient culture.
Nyamwamba Cultural Centre: This centre is a hub for cultural activities in Kasese, hosting events, workshops, and performances that celebrate the local music, dance, and folklore.

Natural Attractions of Kasese: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kasese’s natural beauty is one of its biggest draws, with a wide range of outdoor adventures and scenic views.

Rwenzori Mountains National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the Rwenzori Mountains, Africa’s third-highest peaks. Visitors can take multi-day hikes to explore the rugged terrain, passing through pristine forests, glacial valleys, and alpine meadows.
Queen Elizabeth National Park: This park is renowned for its wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffalo, and hippos. Visitors can take game drives, boat safaris, and walking tours to spot these animals in their natural habitats.
Kazinga Channel: This 32-kilometer channel connects Lake Edward and Lake George, offering a prime viewing spot for aquatic wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kasese

For those seeking to explore Kasese’s natural beauty on foot or bike, there are a number of well-marked trails and routes to choose from.

Rwenzori Central Circuit: This 7-day circuit takes hikers through the heart of the Rwenzori Mountains, passing by glaciers, waterfalls, and remote mountain villages.
Katwe Bike Trail: This self-guided bike tour takes visitors through the scenic Katwe area, passing by salt mines, traditional homesteads, and beautiful scenery.
Maramagambo Forest Walk: This short hike takes visitors through the lush Maramagambo Forest, where they can observe primates, birds, and other wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Kasese: Activities and Tours

In addition to the natural and cultural attractions, Kasese offers a variety of activities and tours that cater to different interests and budgets.

Chimpanzee Tracking: Visitors can go tracking Chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge Conservation area, and enjoy a rare view of chimpanzees and other primates.
Gorilla Trekking: Visitors can go gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park, one of the few places in the world where these magnificent creatures can be seen up close.
Cultural Experiences: Visitors can take part in a variety of cultural experiences, such as traditional dance and music performances, cooking classes, and homestays with local families.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kasese

To make the most of your time in Kasese, consider the following week-long itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Kasese Day 2-3: Hiking in Rwenzori Mountains National Park Day 4-5: Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park Day 6: Fortress Hike and Kasenda Heritage Site Tour Day 7: Cultural Experience in Nyamwamba Cultural Centre

Food and Drink Scene of Kasese

Kasese’s food and drink scene is a reflection of its diverse cultural heritage, with influences from Uganda and the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo.

Must-Try Dishes

Luwombo: This traditional dish is made with chicken or beef, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed with a variety of spices and vegetables.
Matoke: This steamed dish is made from mashed plantains and often accompanied by a stew or sauce.
Ugali: This maize-based dish is a staple in Uganda, served as a side dish for stews and curries.

Local Beverages

Waragi: This locally distilled gin is a popular drink in Uganda, often mixed with tonic water, soda, or fruit juice.
Banana Beer: This sweet, fermented beer is made from bananas and sorghum or millet, and is a staple in many rural areas.

Where to Stay in Kasese: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kasese offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Some of the most popular options include:

Rwenzori Backpackers: This hostel offers budget-friendly dorm rooms and private rooms, as well as camping facilities.
Sandton Hotel Kasese: This hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, as well as a restaurant and bar.
Mweya Safari Lodge: This luxury lodge is located within Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering stunning views and top-notch service.

What to Buy in Kasese: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For those looking to bring home a piece of Kasese, there are a variety of souvenirs and local products to choose from.

Rwenzori Art Centre: This cooperative offers handmade crafts and souvenirs made by local artisans, including baskets, textiles, and jewelry.
Kasese Main Market: This bustling market offers a wide range of local products, including fresh produce, spices, and fabrics.

Local Culture and Customs of Kasese

Kasese is home to the Bakonzo people, who have a rich cultural history and tradition. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, and avoid behavior that could be considered disrespectful or offensive.

Best Time to Visit Kasese

The best time to visit Kasese is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and January to February. During this time, the weather is mild and the wildlife is easier to spot.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kasese

Do:

Respect local customs and traditions.
Dress modestly in public places.
Try local cuisine and traditional dances.
Bargain respectfully in markets.

Don’t:

Disrespect local customs or religious sites.
Wear revealing clothing in public places.
Photograph people without their permission.
Touch or feed wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kasese

Kasese is generally a safe destination for tourists, with low rates of crime and violence. Visitors should use common sense and take precautions to ensure their own safety, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables secure.

Health in Kasese

Travelers to Kasese should be up-to-date on routine vaccines, as well as vaccines for hepatitis A and typhoid. Malaria is also a risk in some areas, and visitors should take precautions such as using mosquito nets and insect repellent.

Getting to Kasese: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kasese is easily accessible by road and air, with a range of transport options available.

Airports Near Kasese

The nearest airport to Kasese is the Kasese Airfield, which offers domestic flights to other parts of Uganda. The Entebbe International Airport is the main international airport in Uganda and is approximately a 7-hour drive from Kasese.

Bus Stations Near Kasese

Visitors can take a bus from Kampala or other major cities to the Kasese Bus Station. Buses in Uganda are affordable and comfortable, but travelers should be prepared for long travel times and occasionally bumpy roads.

Other Options

Private taxis and car rentals are also available for those seeking more flexibility and comfort.

How to Get Around in Kasese

The town of Kasese is relatively small and easy to navigate on foot or by bike. Taxis and buses are also available for longer journeys or those seeking to explore further afield. Visitors can also arrange tours and activities through local tour operators.

Where to Go Next from Kasese: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

For those looking to continue their travels beyond Kasese, there are a number of nearby destinations and excursions to consider.

Fort Portal: This small town is located approximately 4 hours from Kasese and offers a range of cultural and outdoor activities.
Jinja: This town is located approximately 8 hours from Kasese and is known as the adventure capital of Uganda, offering activities such as white-water rafting and bungee jumping.

Conclusion

Kasese is a treasure trove for travelers seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and natural wonders. With its stunning landscape, rich cultural history, and warm hospitality, Kasese is a destination that should not be missed.

Kasese Image Gallery

A 2006 view of Kasese and the mountains beyond