What do you know about Kanungu as a tourist destination? This is a question that has intrigued many travelers considering a trip to this area. Truth be told, Kanungu is a place worth visiting, despite being Uganda’s most remote, it boasts beautiful scenic areas.
Kanungu District was formerly part of Kabale District, created in 2001 by the 6th Parliament. It currently borders Rukungiri District to the north and east, Rubanda District to the south, Kisoro to the southwest, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west.
Apart from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kanungu is also known for one of the largest cult killings in human history, orchestrated by the self-proclaimed pastor, Joseph Kibwetere.
Joseph Kibwetere, whose cult numbered over 25,000 members, convinced his followers that the world would end in 2000 and that God would descend to Earth—a prophecy that never materialized.
In March 2000, about 1,000 members of Kibwetere’s Movement for the Restoration of the Ten Commandments of God perished in a fire at his church, located approximately 2km south of Kanungu town.
The remains of this church are still preserved, offering visitors a glimpse into this dark chapter of history. Thus, a trip to Kanungu District is both enriching and sobering, with its beautiful scenery encompassing the Kigezi highlands, expansive tea plantations, conical hills dotted with lively homesteads, seasonal rivers, and much more.
The distance between Rukungiri and Kanungu towns is about 44km, taking over 2 hours by bus, but with the current road upgrades, this travel time is expected to reduce to just 1 hour. The roads may become challenging during rainy seasons, but this should not deter you from exploring the hidden treasures of this remarkable destination.
Tourism is a significant source of income, drawing travelers from around the world who come to Kanungu each year in hopes of encountering the rare mountain gorillas that inhabit the nearby Buhoma sector in the north of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Bwindi is renowned for hosting about half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, with the other half found only within the Virunga Massif—a volcanic range spanning Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Many other activities are continually enjoyed by travelers who visit Kanungu District.
Dark Tourism
In March 2000, about 1,000 members of the notorious Kibwetere’s Movement for the Restoration of the Ten Commandments of God were tragically killed in a fire at his church, located roughly 2km south of Kanungu town.
This historical site has attracted numerous tourists to Uganda. It’s one of the places you shouldn’t miss on your safari in Uganda to learn about the history of Joseph Kibwetere and his followers.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Located 45km from Kanungu town, this park is renowned for its endangered mountain gorillas. Bwindi National Park welcomes tourists from all over the world who come for gorilla trekking and habituation experiences in the Buhoma gorilla region.
Besides mountain gorillas, visitors can enjoy encounters with Batwa pygmies, explore the dense impenetrable forest, and observe various bird species, among other activities.
Cultural Encounters
These mainly involve the Batwa pygmies residing in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi forest. They offer insights into their former forest life, demonstrating traditional practices such as fruit gathering, hunting, and shelter-building.
Today, the Batwa live on the forest outskirts, where visitors can learn about their traditions, history, songs, and performances.
Other activities include birding, hiking, and nature walks, among others.
Accommodation in Kanungu Town
Accommodation options range from luxury to budget, including Buhoma Community Campsite, Crested Crane Hotel, Bwindi Lodge, Silverback Lodge, Buhoma Lodge, and many others.
Kanungu is located in the southwestern region of Uganda, 450km from Kampala—the capital, an 8-hour drive away.
The route passes through Kampala – Mbarara – Rukungiri – Kanungu, offering views of the Uganda Equator Monument, expansive Ankole plains dotted with endangered long-horned Ankole cows, bustling Mbarara town, the Igongo Cultural Center providing insights into the cultures of western Uganda tribes, and more.
