Mbarara Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and how to get around in Mbarara, Uganda, with our comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Mbarara

Mbarara is a city located in Western Uganda, in East Africa. It is the largest city in the Western region and the fifth-largest city in Uganda. Mbarara is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and diverse wildlife.

The city is situated at an altitude of 1390 meters above sea level, and it has a tropical climate with an average temperature of 25°C. The best time to visit Mbarara is between June and September when the weather is dry and sunny.

Mbarara has a population of over 195,000 people, who are mostly Banyankole and Bahima people. English and Swahili are the official languages spoken in Uganda, but many locals also speak Runyankole.

List of Places to Visit in Mbarara

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Igongo Cultural Center: This center showcases the culture and traditions of the Ankole people, including their traditional attire, dances, and tools.
  • Ntusi Catholic Mission: This is one of the oldest Catholic missions in the country, founded in 1906 by White Fathers.
  • Kikagati Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Banyankole people.
  • Bihanga Eco-Tourism Site: This is an eco-tourism site that offers guided bird walks, cultural visits, and fishing trips on Lake Mburo.

Natural Attractions of Mbarara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Mburo National Park: This national park is home to over 350 bird species and various wildlife, including zebras, buffalos, and antelopes. Visitors can participate in game drives, nature walks, and boat trips.
  • Rushere Hill: This hill offers a scenic view of the surrounding landscape, including Lake Mburo, Rwizi River, and Mbarara town.
  • Bweyale Hill: This hill is a popular spot for hiking and camping, with several picnic areas and campsites.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mbarara

The hills surrounding Mbarara offer numerous hiking and biking trails, including Bihanga Eco-Tourism Site, Rushere Hill, and Bweyale Hill.

Best Things to Do in Mbarara: Activities and Tours

  • Game drives in Lake Mburo National Park
  • Nature walks in Bihanga Eco-Tourism Site
  • Boat trips on Lake Mburo
  • Hiking and camping on Rushere Hill and Bweyale Hill
  • Cultural visits to the Igongo Cultural Center
  • Biking tours in the countryside

Week-Long Itinerary for Mbarara

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Mbarara, check into accommodation
Day 2 Game drive in Lake Mburo National Park
Day 3 Visit the Igongo Cultural Center
Day 4 Hike and camp on Rushere Hill
Day 5 Nature walk and fishing trip in Bihanga Eco-Tourism Site
Day 6 Boat trip on Lake Mburo
Day 7 Depart from Mbarara

Food and Drink Scene of Mbarara

Must-Try Dishes

  • Eshabwe: This is a traditional dish made from ghee, served with millet or cassava bread.
  • Rugoma chicken: This is a popular dish made from locally-raised chicken, cooked in peanut sauce.
  • Kalo: This is a staple food in Uganda made from cassava or millet flour, served with beans or goat stew.

Local Beverages

  • Waragi: This is a distilled gin made from bananas or cassava.
  • Uganda Waragi: This is a popular brand of Waragi in Uganda, commonly served with tonic water and lime.
  • Beer: Uganda has several local beer brands, including Bell Lager and Nile Special.

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

  • Pearl Gardens Hotel: This is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Mbarara, offering spacious rooms, a pool, and a restaurant.
  • Lake View Resort Hotel: This hotel is located on the shores of Lake Mburo, offering scenic views and comfortable rooms.
  • Igongo Cultural Center Guest House: This guest house is located within the Igongo Cultural Center and offers traditional-style rooms and a museum tour.

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

  • Handcrafted baskets: These are made from local materials, including palm leaves and banana fibers.
  • Artwork: Mbarara has many talented artists who produce beautiful paintings and sculptures.
  • Traditional attire: You can purchase clothing made from local fabrics, including Rwenzori cotton and barkcloth.

Local Culture and Customs of Mbarara

The Banyankole and Bahima people have a unique culture that revolves around cattle keeping. They are known for their love of cattle, and their traditional dances and songs are often performed during cattle ceremonies.

When visiting Mbarara, it is important to dress conservatively and respect local customs, including removing your shoes before entering someone’s home.

Best Time to Visit Mbarara

The best time to visit Mbarara is during the dry season, between June and September. During this time, the weather is sunny and warm, and wildlife is easier to spot.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mbarara

Do:

  • Dress conservatively
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try local food and drinks
  • Learn a few words in Runyankole

Don’t:

  • Take photographs without permission
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions
  • Wear revealing clothing

Safety and Health

Safety in Mbarara

Mbarara is a relatively safe city, but visitors should take precautions to avoid petty theft and pickpocketing. It is also recommended to avoid walking alone at night and to use reputable taxis or public transportation.

Health in Mbarara

It is recommended to receive a yellow fever vaccination before traveling to Mbarara. Visitors should also take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, as malaria is prevalent in the region. It is also recommended to drink bottled water and avoid raw fruits and vegetables that may have been washed in tap water.

Getting to Mbarara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mbarara is located approximately 280km from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. The most convenient way to travel to Mbarara is by private car, which takes approximately 4-5 hours. Visitors can also take a bus from Kampala, which takes approximately 6-7 hours.

Airports Near Mbarara

The closest airport to Mbarara is the Entebbe International Airport, located approximately 260 km away.

Bus Stations Near Mbarara

The main bus station in Mbarara is located in the city center, and buses connect Mbarara to other cities in Uganda and neighboring countries.

Other Options

Private taxis and rental cars are available for hire in Mbarara.

How to Get Around in Mbarara

The best way to get around in Mbarara is by taxi or boda-boda (motorcycle taxi). Visitors should negotiate the fare before beginning the journey.

Where to Go Next from Mbarara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kampala: The capital city of Uganda is located approximately 280km away from Mbarara and is known for its vibrant atmosphere and historical landmarks.
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park: This national park is located approximately 250km away from Mbarara and is home to various wildlife, including elephants, lions, and hippos.
  • Lake Bunyonyi: This lake is located approximately 200km away from Mbarara and is a popular spot for water activities, including swimming and canoeing.

Conclusion

Mbarara is an incredible destination that offers a mix of cultural experiences, natural attractions, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, history, or local cuisine, Mbarara has something to offer. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect itinerary for your trip to Mbarara.