Mbarara - Discovering Uganda

Travelling to Mbarara

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Mbarara, 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 Mbarara 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 Mbarara, 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 Mbarara for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Mbarara

Mbarara is a city located in southwestern Uganda. It is the largest city in the Ankole sub-region, and it serves as the administrative center of Mbarara District. The city has a population of around 195,000 people, and it is known for its vibrant cultural scene, as well as its many shopping centers and markets. Mbarara is also home to Mbarara University of Science and Technology, one of the leading universities in Uganda. The city is surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful scenery, making it a popular destination for tourists who enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities.

What to visit in Mbarara

Here are some popular tourist attractions in Mbarara, Uganda with some information about each one of them: 1. Lake Mburo National Park - This park covers an area of 370 square kilometers and is home to a variety of wildlife, including zebras, impalas, buffaloes, and birds like shoebills, African fish eagles, and herons. Visitors can enjoy game drives, boat trips on Lake Mburo, guided nature walks, and horse riding safaris.
2. Igongo Cultural Center - This center showcases the culture and traditions of the Ankole people of western Uganda. It has a museum that displays traditional artifacts, tools, and clothing, and offers guided tours. There is also a restaurant that serves local cuisine and a craft shop.
3. Buranga Hot Springs - These natural hot springs are located about 20 kilometers north of Mbarara town. Visitors can soak in the hot mineral water, which is said to have therapeutic properties, relax in the surrounding gardens, and learn about the local legends and beliefs associated with the springs.
4. Nshenyi Village - This is a traditional village where visitors can experience the rural way of life of the Ankole people. Activities include milking cows, making ghee and local brew, weaving, and dancing to traditional music.
5. Rwizi Archipelago - This is a group of islands located in Lake Rwizi, near Mbarara. Visitors can go on boat tours, bird watching, fishing, and camping. The islands are also home to a variety of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and waterbucks.
6. Mbarara Golf Course - This is an 18-hole golf course located within the Mbarara University campus. Visitors can enjoy a round of golf, or relax at the clubhouse and restaurant. The course has scenic views of the surrounding hills and countryside.
7. Mbarara Market - This is one of the biggest and busiest markets in western Uganda, where visitors can buy local produce, fruits, vegetables, and unique crafts. It's a great place to experience the hustle and bustle of everyday life in Mbarara.
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.

When to go on holiday to Mbarara

The best time to go on a holiday to Mbarara, Uganda is during the dry season, which is from June to August and from December to February. During this period, you will enjoy the best weather conditions with sunny and warm days, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as safaris, wildlife viewing, and hiking. The wet season, which runs from March to May and from September to November, can make activities more challenging, as the environment is wetter, and some roads may be difficult to navigate. However, this season is also a great time to visit for bird watching as migratory birds are present in large numbers.

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

How to get to Mbarara

Mbarara is a city located in southwestern Uganda. Here are the different ways to get there: 1. By air: The closest airport to Mbarara is the Mbarara Airport, but it mostly serves domestic flights. The most convenient airport is the Entebbe International Airport, located in Kampala, which is about 3-4 hours drive from Mbarara. From there, you can take a private or public taxi, or a hired car to Mbarara.
2. By bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Kampala and Mbarara. You can take a bus from the Kampala bus terminal to Mbarara and the journey can take between 4 to 5 hours. Some of the popular bus companies include Gaaga Bus, Link Bus, and Post Bus.
3. By car: You can hire a private car and driver to take you from Kampala to Mbarara. Alternatively, you can also rent a car and drive yourself, but it's recommended to hire a driver who is familiar with the roads and driving conditions in Uganda.
I hope this helps!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Mbarara, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Mbarara

1. Akaro: This is a popular dish in Mbarara, made from mashed plantains or yams which are mixed with ground peanuts or peanut butter. The dish is usually served with a side of vegetables or meat.
2. Kabalega: This is a type of stewed goat meat that is cooked with a spicy gravy made from tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices. It is typically served with rice or ugali, a popular staple in East Africa.
3. Chapati: This is a type of flatbread that is popular throughout Uganda and other East African countries. Chapati is made from a mixture of flour, water, salt, and oil, rolled into thin circles and then cooked on a hot griddle until it is browned and crispy.
4. Matooke: This is a type of banana that is popular in Uganda, especially in the western part of the country where Mbarara is located. It is often cooked and served in a variety of ways, including boiled, steamed, mashed, or fried.
5. Rolex: This is a popular street food that is often sold in the markets of Mbarara and other Ugandan cities. A rolex is essentially an omelette that is wrapped in a chapati and filled with vegetables and meat. It is a quick and tasty snack that is perfect for eating on-the-go.
You can find general info about typical foods in Uganda here.

Is Mbarara an expensive destination for tourists?

Mbarara is generally considered a moderately priced destination for tourists. The cost of living and travel expenses in Mbarara can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, mode of transportation, accommodation, and the activities you choose to do. However, compared to other popular tourist destinations in Uganda or East Africa, Mbarara is generally less expensive. To get a better idea of the costs you can expect in Mbarara, research the prices of accommodation, food, transportation, and tourist attractions in advance of your trip and compare them with other destinations in the region.

Where to find accomodation in Mbarara

Mbarara has a few different areas where one can find accommodations that are suitable for visiting the attractions in the area: 1. Mbarara Town: This is the main commercial center of the city and has a variety of budget, mid-range, and luxury hotels, making it a convenient place to stay for visitors.
2. Kakoba: This is a more residential area in Mbarara that has a number of guesthouses and lodges available for visitors.
3. Nyamitanga: This area is just a short distance north of the city center and offers a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and homestays.
4. Lake Mburo National Park: If you're planning on visiting Lake Mburo National Park, which is located about 30 km east of Mbarara, there are several lodges and campsites within the park that offer accommodation.
You can check hotel prices at Mbarara here:
Booking.com

Is Mbarara a safe destination for tourists?

Mbarara is generally considered a safe place for tourists in Uganda. However, as with any city, there are certain precautions that visitors should take to ensure their safety: - Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night.
- Keep an eye on your belongings and do not flaunt expensive items such as cameras or jewellery.
- Be cautious when using ATMs as card skimming can occur. It's best to use ATMs located in secure areas such as shopping malls or hotels.
- Follow local customs and dress modestly, especially in religious areas, to avoid causing offence.
Overall, with some basic safety measures, tourists should have a safe and enjoyable time in Mbarara.
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 Mbarara.

What type of travelers will enjoy Mbarara the most?

Mbarara, Uganda can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers, including couples, young people looking for fun, and families.
For couples, Mbarara offers scenic views and romantic getaways such as the Lake Mburo National Park where they can observe wildlife on game drives, take swamps walks and boat rides.
For young people looking for fun, there are exciting activities such as hiking to the scenic spots in the region and visiting cultural attractions like the Igongo cultural center to learn about the Ankole culture and lifestyle.
For families, Mbarara offers family-friendly accommodations, kid-friendly activities at Lake Mburo National Park and Igongo Cultural Center, and enjoyable outings at the various markets and shopping centers in town.
Overall, Mbarara is a destination that has a lot of variety and is suitable for all types of travelers.

How to get around Mbarara

The most common modes of transportation in Mbarara (Uganda) are boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis), taxis, and buses. Boda-bodas are generally the quickest and most convenient option for short trips, while taxis and buses are better for longer journeys. However, it's important to note that boda-bodas may not always be the safest option, so it's important to exercise caution and wear a helmet if you choose to use them.

What to see around Mbarara

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Mbarara, Uganda: 1. Lake Mburo National Park - This park is located about 30 minutes drive from Mbarara and is known for its wildlife, including zebras, elands, and impalas. You can take a game drive or a boat ride on the lake.
2. Igongo Cultural Center - This cultural center is located in the town of Biharwe, just outside Mbarara. It features a museum that tells the story of the Ankole kingdom and showcases the region's art and craftwork.
3. Buhoma Community Rest Camp - This camp is located in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which is about a 3-hour drive from Mbarara. The forest is home to half of the world's population of endangered mountain gorillas, which you can see on a guided trek.
4. Rubirizi Hot Springs - These hot springs are located about 1.5 hours drive from Mbarara and are said to have healing properties. You can relax in the hot water and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
5. Rwizi Rock - This rock formation is located in Rwampara, just outside Mbarara, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It's a great spot for hiking and picnicking.
For every travel information about Uganda you can click here.

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