Mbale - Discovering Uganda

Travelling to Mbale

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Mbale, a pretty good destination in Uganda (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Mbale and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Mbale, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Uganda, here's everything to know about Mbale for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Mbale

Mbale is a town in Eastern Uganda, located at the foothills of Mount Elgon. It is the third-largest metropolitan area in the country after Kampala and Entebbe, with a population of approximately 350,000 people. Mbale is known for its picturesque scenery, which includes the Wanale Ridge and Mount Elgon National Park. It is also recognized as a hub of cultural diversity and home to various ethnic groups such as the Bagisu, Iteso, and Basoga. The town is famous for its coffee production and its proximity to several other popular tourist destinations, including Sipi Falls, Kapchorwa, and the source of the Nile River in Jinja.

What to visit in Mbale

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Mbale, Uganda: 1. Mount Elgon – This is a dormant volcano that lies on the border of Uganda and Kenya. It has the second highest peak in Uganda and offers great hiking and trekking opportunities. The mountain is also home to various wildlife such as buffalo, elephants and leopards.
2. Sipi Falls – These are a series of three waterfalls situated on the slopes of Mount Elgon. The falls are accessed through a beautiful hiking trail that offers great views of the surrounding plains and valleys.
3. Wanale Hill – This is a scenic hill located just outside Mbale town that offers beautiful views of the town and the surrounding countryside.
4. Nyero Rock Paintings – These are ancient rock paintings that date back to over 3,000 years ago. They are located in the Nyero Rock Site and are believed to have been created by early human settlers in the area.
5. Bamasaba Cultural Centre – This centre displays the rich cultural heritage of the Bamasaba people of Mbale. It features traditional dances, music and art and provides a great opportunity for tourists to learn about their culture.
6. Nabuyonga Cave – This is a historical site that was used as a hideout by the Bamasaba during the colonial era. It is located on the slopes of Mount Elgon and is accessed through a scenic hiking trail.
7. Mbale Central Market – This is a bustling market located in the heart of Mbale town. It offers a great opportunity for tourists to experience the local culture and buy souvenirs.
8. Uganda Wildlife Education Centre – This is a wildlife sanctuary that is home to various animals such as lions, elephants, and monkeys. It offers a great opportunity for tourists to see and learn about wildlife in Uganda.
These are just some of the tourist attractions in Mbale, Uganda. Each of them offers a unique experience for tourists, and if you are planning a trip to Uganda, you will definitely want to include some of these destinations in your itinerary.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Uganda, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Mbale.

When to go on holiday to Mbale

The best time to go on holiday to Mbale, Uganda is during the dry season, which runs from December to February and June to August. During these months, you can expect generally sunny days with less rainfall. The temperatures are also cooler, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the town. However, remember that Mbale is located close to the equator, so temperatures are consistent throughout the year. If you prefer to avoid crowds and high prices, it is best to avoid the peak season, which is December to January and June to July.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Mbale

There are a few different ways to get to Mbale, Uganda depending on where you are coming from.
If you are coming from the capital city of Kampala, you can take a public bus or a private taxi. The journey typically takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
If you are coming from Entebbe Airport, you can take a private taxi or hire a driver to take you to Mbale. It's about a 5-6 hour drive from Entebbe to Mbale.
If you prefer to fly, you can take a flight from Entebbe Airport to Soroti Airport, which is the closest airport to Mbale. From Soroti, you can take a taxi or private car to Mbale, which is about a 2-3 hour drive.
It's recommended to check with local tour operators or travel agencies for more information on specific transportation options and schedules.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Mbale, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Mbale

Here are some typical foods of Mbale, Uganda with a short description: 1. Matooke - A dish made from mashing green bananas and serving them with a peanut sauce and vegetables. It is a staple food in the country.
2. Ugali - A simple dish made from maize flour and water, often served with beans, meat or spinach.
3. Eshabwe - A rich sauce made from butter, salt, and cheese. It is often served with matooke, ugali, or cassava.
4. Chapati - A flatbread made from wheat flour, oil, and water. It is a popular breakfast dish in Mbale.
5. Rolex - A type of Ugandan street food that consists of an omelette rolled up in a chapati.
6. Luwombo - A dish made by steaming meat or fish together with vegetables in banana leaves. It is usually served with matooke or cassava.
7. Nsenene - A kind of grasshopper that is considered a delicacy in Uganda, especially during the rainy season. It is usually fried or roasted and served with salt.
8. Kikomando - A dish of fried beans and chapati. It is popular among students, traders and low income earners.
You can find general info about typical foods in Uganda here.

Is Mbale an expensive destination for tourists?

Mbale, Uganda is generally an affordable destination for tourists. Prices for accommodation, food, and transportation are typically lower than in more popular tourist destinations in the country, such as Kampala or Jinja. However, the cost of travel can vary depending on the season and the activities you plan to do. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices beforehand to create a budget for your trip. Additionally, bargaining with vendors and using public transportation can help you save money during your stay in Mbale.

Where to find accomodation in Mbale

In Mbale, Uganda, the best areas to find accommodation would be in the city center or close to the Central Business District (CBD). This area offers great access to restaurants, shopping centers, and the major tourist attractions in Mbale. Another area you could consider is the outskirts of town around Mount Elgon National Park, where you can find lodges and guesthouses for a peaceful and serene getaway.
You can check hotel prices at Mbale here:
Booking.com

Is Mbale a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Mbale in Uganda is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's always important to exercise caution and take necessary precautions. Petty crime is not uncommon, so it's advisable to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Additionally, it's always a good idea to stay informed about the local customs and culture and to be respectful of them. Overall, if you stay aware and take the necessary safety measures, you should be able to enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to Mbale.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Uganda here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Mbale.

What type of travelers will enjoy Mbale the most?

Mbale, Uganda is a great travel destination for various types of travelers. Here are some categories of travelers that might enjoy Mbale the most: - Nature lovers: Mbale is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including Mt. Elgon National Park, Sipi Falls, and Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve. It's a great place for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
- Adventure seekers: If you're looking for some adrenaline-pumping activities, Mbale has plenty to offer. You can go white-water rafting on the Nile, bungee jumping over the Nile, and rock climbing in Sipi Falls.
- Culture enthusiasts: Mbale has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can learn about the Bagisu cultural practices, including the male circumcision ceremony. There are also several festivals throughout the year, such as the Imbalu festival.
- Families: Mbale is a family-friendly destination, with activities suitable for children such as tours of coffee plantations and visits to the Mbale municipal museum.
Ultimately, Mbale offers something for everyone, whether you're a couple looking for a romantic retreat, a group of young adults seeking adventure, or a family looking for a fun and educational vacation.

How to get around Mbale

The most common transportation options to move around Mbale in Uganda are boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis), matatus (shared taxis or minibuses), and private taxis. Boda-bodas are the quickest and most readily available, but they can be dangerous and may not be suitable for all travelers. Matatus are a cheaper option and operate on set routes, while private taxis offer more comfort and flexibility but are more expensive. It's important to negotiate prices with drivers beforehand and confirm the route before starting the trip.

What to see around Mbale

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Mbale (Uganda): 1. Sipi Falls - a beautiful waterfall in the hills of Kapchorwa, about 30km from Mbale.
2. Mount Elgon National Park - a park that straddles the Uganda-Kenya border offering breathtaking views of the mountain, vegetation and wildlife.
3. Nyero Rock Paintings - ancient rock art located in Kumi district, about 72km from Mbale.
4. Wanale Hill - located in Mbale town, this hill provides a panoramic view of the town, surrounding plains, and the mountain ranges in the distance.
5. Imbalu Cultural Centre - located in Bumasikye village, the centre offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the Bagisu culture and their traditional initiation ceremony (Imbalu).
6. Tororo Rock - an impressive rock formation located in Tororo town, about 45km from Mbale.
7. Busitema Forest Reserve - a forest reserve located in Butaleja district, about 58km from Mbale. Visitors can enjoy bird watching and nature walks.
8. Sironko District - this district is located east of Mbale and has several tourist attractions, including the stunning Mutoto Cultural Site, the beautiful Nabuyonga Forest Reserve, and the Wanale Cliffs.
Hope this helps!
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