Located in the southwestern region of Uganda, Kabale town is the main town of the larger Kabale district and serves as its headquarters. Kabale is sometimes nicknamed “kastone,” which means “a small stone” in the local language of Rukiga.
Kabale is bordered by Rubanda district to the south, Kanungu district to the northwest, Rukiga district to the north, and Rukungiri district to the west.
Kabale town is approximately 420 kilometers away from Kampala, which is a 6-hour drive, and a 3-hour drive from Kigali city in Rwanda. According to the 2014 national population census, Kabale has approximately 49,667 inhabitants, and its population grows at a rapid rate of at least 4% per year, making it one of the most populous towns in Uganda.
Kabale town and its surroundings form a pure destination to explore and admire the amazing attractions synonymous with this region. Both inside and outside Kabale, you can discover various attractions, from its hospitable people to its chilly weather and romantic terraced hills.
Kabale also shares attractions with its neighboring districts, such as beautiful landscapes, mountains, game parks, and activities like hiking and nature walks that can be enjoyed while visiting.
Kabale Uganda Tourism
Lake Bunyonyi
Well known for being the second deepest lake in Africa, Lake Bunyonyi is located in southwestern Uganda between the districts of Kabale and Rubanda. It is situated only 8km outside of Kabale town amidst the misty Kigezi highlands. Activities such as canoeing, bird watching, cultural encounters, visiting the traditional healer Sam Mulisa, swimming, and hiking are among the many activities available at Lake Bunyonyi.
Kisiizi Falls
Kisiizi Falls straddles the borders of Kabale and Rukungiri districts, lying along the Kyabamba River in Rukungiri amidst the Kigezi highlands. While at Kisiizi Falls, visitors can engage in birding, spotting species like the Grey Heron, Pied Crow, and Turaco, among others. Photography of the beautiful falls set against green scenery is another popular activity. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a forest walk in the small pockets of forests near the falls and experience the culture of the resident Bakiga people.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Located in the southernmost district of Kisoro, just a 2-hour drive from Kabale, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers mesmerizing experiences. Known for gorilla trekking, volcano hiking, cultural encounters with the Batwa people, and bird watching, with iconic species like the Black Kite, White-necked Raven, and Speckled Mousebird. Mgahinga also provides the opportunity to trek the rare golden monkeys found in the park.
Great Lakes Museum
The Great Lakes Museum is located in Muhanga, situated between the expansive plains of Ntungamo and the hills of what is now Rukiga (formerly Kabale) district. This museum houses a collection of ancient items and artifacts that depict the rich history of the numerous clans who have inhabited western and southern Uganda. You can visit this fascinating place on the highway approach to Kabale town from Kampala.
Caves & Scenic Rocks
Kabale town boasts historical physical features that were of great importance to ancient inhabitants and continue to captivate visitors today. Caves are among the iconic attractions, once used as hiding places by ancient warriors. Some notable caves include Nyakagera Cave on Kabaraga Hill near Kabale town.
Accommodation in Kabale
In Kabale, finding accommodation is not a concern, as the town offers a range of options from budget to luxury. For luxury accommodation, Kabale town boasts establishments like Bird Nest Resort, White Horse Inn, Arcadia Cottages, and many others.
For mid-range options, hotels such as Summit Safari Lodge on Muhanga Hills, Bunyonyi Safaris Resort, Bunyonyi Eco Resort, and Riverside Hotel are available. Budget travelers can choose from facilities like Cephas’ Inn, Green Hills Hotel, and Engagi Guest House, among others.
You can reach Kabale town by air or road. A flight to Kabale takes approximately 30-45 minutes, while a road trip from Kampala/Entebbe takes about 6-7 hours. Kabale is a town full of fun and adventurous activities that should not be missed on a Uganda safari.
