3 Days Itinerary in Mbarara, Uganda - Travel Guide
Grit and Glory: 3 Days in Mbarara, Uganda
| Days | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Day 1 - City Rhythm and Ugandan Cuisine |
| 2 | Day 2 - Lake Mburo National Park excursion |
| 3 | Day 3 - Ankole Cultural Center and departure |
Introduction
Witness the undulating beauty, rich cultural history and captivating wildlife that abounds in Mbarara, Uganda. This 3-day journey will take you through vibrant city pulses into the heart of rustic life, unveiling Uganda's best kept secrets. We'll venture from dusty city streets, edged with colorful markets, to soul-stirring picturesque landscapes. Prepare to step into a world that dances to the drums of its own rhythm!
Day 1 - City Rhythm and Ugandan Cuisine
Our adventure begins in the heart of Mbarara town – a bustling urban center against a stunning backdrop of rolling hills. Our first step, we'll explore City Market, an absolute visual feast. Grab your shopping bags and jump into the hubbub; don't just observe, but immerse in a trade culture that spills with vegetables, fruits, handcrafts, and more. After bucket lists of walking, sit at one of the local 'kafundas' for a traditional Ugandan dish. How about a plate of scrumptious matoke, steamed banana mashed and served with groundnut sauce? Don't forget the side of freshwater fish or beef. Now that you're fueled, let's step into history at the Uganda Museum - a window that allows us to peek back in time. From early colonial periods to prehistoric fossils of Uganda, it's sure a ride back in time. To close our day, we'll have dinner with a panoramic view of city's twinkle from Kashaka Hill.
Day 2 - Lake Mburo National Park excursion
Buckle up your seat belts for a heart-throbbing safari in Lake Mburo National Park. Traversing through the Savannah grasslands whilst spotting an eland or impala is like watching a National Geographic documentary, don't you think? Only, it's vividly real! Keep an eye out for bird species; this park hosts over 350 bird types. Ready for an afternoon adventure? Add excitement to your day with a horse-riding safari or mountain biking during your visit. As night falls, set up camp or find your comfort in the wilderness lodges and let the ambience serenade you to a peaceful sleep.
Day 3 - Ankole Cultural Center and departure
On our final day, we'll visit the Ankole Cultural Center. Brace yourself for a true introduction to the beautiful Ankole culture. Listen to the jangling rhythms of the Akadinda - a traditional musical instrument - and watch folk dances that make your heart flutter. Have you ever milked a long-horned Ankole cattle? Well, here's your chance! As we depart, we'll pause at the Mbarara Southern Bypass highway for a panoramic shot of the city that was our home for three endearing days. And with that memory in our pocket, we bid farewell to Mbarara's warmth and hospitality.
William Adams
FAQs about this
3 day itinerary in
Mbarara
Ideal time to visit Mbarara is during the dry seasons of December to February and June to September, when wildlife viewing is generally more accessible and the weather is more forgiving.
Local people in Mbarara speak Runyankole, a Bantu language. However, English and Swahili are widely spoken and understood as well.
Indeed, Mbarara is generally safe for tourists with the usual precautions applicable. However, like any other destination, it is recommended to stay polite, be aware of your possessions and respect the local customs and norms.