Things to do in Western Uganda
Discover the best attractions and experiences Western Uganda has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore royal sites and historic landmarks that tell the story of Western Uganda’s kingdoms and colonial era.
Tooro Palace (Fort Portal)
The royal palace of the Tooro Kingdom, a center of culture and history in Fort Portal.
Fort Portal Cathedral
A historic cathedral with colonial-era architecture in Fort Portal.
Museums
Small regional museums showcase local culture, history, and the natural world.
Rwenzori Museum – Kasese
Exhibits on the Rwenzori mountains, local culture and natural history.
Fort Portal Local History Museum
Displays on the Fort Portal area’s people and heritage.
Religious Monuments
Visit significant churches and religious sites that reflect the region’s spiritual landscape.
St. Patrick's Cathedral, Fort Portal
Historic church with a distinctive colonial-era design.
Our Lady of Sorrows Shrine, Fort Portal
A local religious site often included in Western Uganda itineraries.
National & Theme Parks
World-class parks offering gorilla trekking, game drives, boat safaris, and mountain adventures.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Forest home to endangered mountain gorillas with forest hikes.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Protected volcanic area on the border with Rwanda and Congo.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Iconic savannah park with abundant wildlife and the Kazinga Channel.
Semuliki National Park
Lowland rainforest with hot springs and wildlife.
Lake Mburo National Park
Compact park known for its herds, birds, and easy access from Mbarara.
Neighborhoods
Explore the towns and districts that form Western Uganda’s scenic backbone.
Fort Portal
Bustling gateway town to Kibale and the Rwenzoris, with markets and cafes.
Kasese
River town at the foothills of the Rwenzoris with great mountain views.
Mbarara
Commercial hub of Ankole with lively markets and Western Uganda flavor.
Kabale
Highland town near Lake Bunyonyi with cooler climate and scenic outlooks.
Free Things to Do
Take in Western Uganda’s natural beauty and viewpoints without a booking.
Lake Bunyonyi viewpoints
Take in panoramic views over the island-studded lake.
Rwenzori foothill vistas
Walks along public trails with dramatic mountain scenery.
Kazinga Channel viewpoints
Relax at public overlooks and watch wildlife along the water.
Gastronomy
Taste rustic Ugandan flavors that thrive in Western Uganda kitchens.
Luwombo
A traditional steamed stew composed of meat or vegetables in banana leaves.
Matooke with groundnut sauce
Steamed plantains served with a rich peanut sauce.
Rolex (street-style omelette wrap)
A popular quick snack found in towns across the region.
Nightlife
Evenings in Western Uganda tend to be relaxed with local bars and live music.
Fort Portal town bars
Casual spots offering local drinks and music.
Evening cultural performances in Tooro area
Short traditional shows in some venues.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and seasonal events showcase Western Uganda’s heritage.
Toro cultural dances
Traditional dance performances from the Tooro people.
Fort Portal cultural nights
Evening showcases of local music and storytelling.
Sports
Adventure and outdoor activities that fit Western Uganda’s landscapes.
Rwenzori foothill trekking
Light to moderate treks with mountain scenery.
Game drives in Queen Elizabeth NP
Classic wildlife viewing across the savannah and wetlands.
Off the Track
Less-visited corners and community walks that reveal local life.
Ruboni Community Village walk
Cultural walk through a Rwenzori foothill community.
Kyaninga Lake viewpoints
Scenic views over the crater lake near Fort Portal.