Things to Do in Mbarara and the Ankole Region

Most visitors drive straight through Mbarara on the way to somewhere famous, and that is our loss and their missed opportunity. The city sits at the centre of the Ankole region, called Nkore by the people who live here, and a day or two gives you a side of Uganda that the national parks do not show.

Begin with the cattle. Ankole cattle, with their enormous curved horns, are the emblem of this region and they are part of our own logo. Arrange a homestead visit and you can meet the herders, learn how cattle are named, milked and honoured in song, and taste fresh dairy products. It is a warm, hands-on cultural experience with no stage in between.

Add a cultural stop. The Igongo Cultural Centre on the edge of the city presents Ankole history and traditions through displays, food and crafts, and it is a helpful primer before you meet people on the road. Check opening times before you go.

Wander the city itself. Mbarara is a busy market town with a large student population, and the central markets are full of fruit, vegetables, fabrics and household goods. Roadside stalls sell roast meat, sweet potato and other snacks, and a slow walk with a local guide is an easy way to feel the pace of everyday life.

Climb a hill for the view. Mbarara is built over a series of ridges and valleys, and an evening viewpoint gives you a sweeping look over the city as the sun drops. It is a good place for a cold drink and to plan the next day's route.

Explore the countryside. The rolling farmland around the city, with banana groves, small trading centres and church spires, is best seen on a half-day drive with stops to talk to people. Market days bring the most life, and a guide can tell you which villages hold the busiest ones.

Use Mbarara as a base for day trips. Lake Mburo National Park is about an hour away and makes an easy day of game drives and boat trips. Lake Bunyonyi and Kabale are a morning drive south, and Queen Elizabeth National Park is a short half-day beyond.

Plan your time. One full day covers a homestead visit, the cultural centre and an evening viewpoint. Two days let you add Lake Mburo as a day trip. If you are heading to Bwindi or Queen Elizabeth, an overnight in Mbarara breaks the journey nicely and lets you start fresh.

We are based here, so we can arrange all of this for you, from transfers to guides to homestay meals. Tell us how long you have and what you enjoy, and we will suggest a plan that fits.