Things To Do
in Arua
Arua is a bustling town located in northwestern Uganda, near the borders with South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Known for its vibrant marketplaces and diverse cultural influences, Arua is a melting pot of different ethnic groups and languages. The town serves as a commercial hub for the surrounding region, attracting traders and visitors from neighboring countries.
Arua is also home to a number of NGOs and humanitarian organizations working to support refugees and communities affected by conflict in the area.
- "Oli otya" - How are you?
- "Webale n'amaani" - Thank you very much
- "Nkwagala" - I love you
- "Buli kimu" - Everything is okay
- "Tukole musana" - Let's work together
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Arua Central Market where you can experience local culture and crafts. Enjoy fresh fruits and artisan goods from various vendors.
Take a scenic drive to the nearby Murchison Falls National Park, where you can embark on a wildlife safari. Be on the lookout for elephants, giraffes, and various bird species.
Return to Arua and unwind at a local restaurant serving Ugandan cuisine. Enjoy a meal while mingling with locals and other travelers.
Head to the hills surrounding Arua for a guided nature trek. Witness stunning views and diverse flora and fauna in the lush greenery.
Have a picnic lunch amidst nature, soaking in the tranquility that surrounds you. Optionally, engage with local communities and learn about their traditions.
End your adventurous day with a cozy campfire experience, sharing stories with your trek group. Savor some local snacks under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Arua has a rich cultural heritage with diverse ethnic communities.
- The city is strategically located as a trade hub near the borders of Uganda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
- Arua is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including hills and rivers, providing opportunities for nature-related activities.
- There are numerous community development initiatives aimed at improving healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
- The cost of living in Arua is relatively low compared to larger Ugandan cities.
- Arua faces challenges with infrastructure development, including inadequate roads and public transport.
- Limited access to healthcare facilities and services can be a concern for residents.
- The city's economy is still developing, which may result in fewer job opportunities and lower salaries compared to larger urban areas.
- Access to high-quality education facilities can be limited, impacting educational outcomes.
- The region can experience political instability and conflict due to its proximity to South Sudan.
Best Activities in Arua
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a tour of the Rhino Camp to see rhinos in their natural habitat and learn about conservation efforts to protect this endangered species.
Take a safari through the Murchison Falls National Park to see a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and lions, as well as the impressive Murchison Falls.
Places to Visit in Arua
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Arua town and its surrounding landscape, perfect for photography and sightseeing.
A natural preserve with scenic beauty, ideal for capturing the lush greenery and wildlife in photographs.
Provides a unique aerial perspective of the region, presenting great opportunities for aerial photography.
Food in Arua
Arua Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty stew made with groundnut sauce, vegetables, and often served with matoke (cooked and mashed green bananas). The savory and nutty flavors make this a must-try local dish.
Must-Try!
A traditional dish made from ghee, often accompanied by millet or sorghum bread. Its rich and buttery taste is a unique experience for visitors seeking authentic Ugandan flavors.
A popular Ugandan street food made from a rolled chapati filled with eggs, vegetables, and sometimes meat. It's a quick and flavorful snack often found at local street stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where visitors can find a variety of fresh produce, meats, and spices, as well as ready-to-eat street food such as samosas, mandazi (sweet fried bread), and grilled meats.
Explore the vibrant street food scene in the Oli Division area, where vendors offer a wide range of local delicacies such as cassava chips, grilled maize, and rolex rolls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Arua, Uganda, it is important to greet people with respect. Handshakes are a common form of greeting, and it's customary to use the right hand when greeting or receiving items from others.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Arua, Uganda. It is important to show deference to elders in both words and actions, and to be attentive and courteous when interacting with them.
When visiting or living in Arua, Uganda, it's important to dress modestly to show respect for the local culture. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothing, and both men and women should dress in a neat and conservative manner.
Safety
Tipping in Arua
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Arua, Uganda is not a common practice. It is usually not expected in restaurants or for other services.
Cash is the primary mode of payment in Arua, Uganda. Some establishments may accept credit cards, but it is always best to carry local currency for transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Arua, Uganda as it offers pleasant weather and minimal rainfall. Expect sunny days and cooler nights.
During these periods, expect heavy rainfall and higher humidity. May experience lush green landscapes but also muddy roads and potential travel disruptions.
Another good time to visit as the weather is relatively dry and warm, offering favorable conditions for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
Arua at Night
Hiking in Arua
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast national park featuring scenic hikes, diverse wildlife, and stunning views of the Murchison Falls, where the Nile River explodes through a narrow gorge.
Known for its rugged beauty and diverse ecosystems, this park offers hiking opportunities through savannas, rivers, and hills with exceptional wildlife viewing.
Part of the Rwenzori Mountains, this area features challenging hikes with breathtaking views, glaciers, and diverse flora and fauna.
This park features trails along the Semiliki River and hot springs with opportunities for bird watching and unique flora exploration.
A trail that connects Fort Portal to Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering views of the surrounding landscapes and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Arua by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Uganda, located in Entebbe, approximately 370 km from Arua.
Located in Kigali, Rwanda, it is about 450 km from Arua and serves as a major hub for East Africa.
Located in Nairobi, Kenya, approximately 800 km from Arua, it is one of the busiest airports in Africa.
Located in Zanzibar, Tanzania, roughly 830 km from Arua, it serves as an international gateway to the island.
Located in Mwanza, Tanzania, about 800 km from Arua, it provides both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Arua, comprising various clans and subgroups with rich cultural traditions.
An ethnic group predominantly found in the Northwestern region, known for their distinctive language and traditions.
An ethnic group mainly settled along the banks of the Albert Nile, with a culture centered around agriculture and fishing.
A significant ethnic group in the Arua district, known for their unique customs and vibrant community life.
A smaller group comprising migrants and communities with ancestral ties from other regions, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Includes various smaller groups and migrants from other parts of Uganda and neighboring countries, contributing to the multicultural landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Arua, played both professionally and at the community level. Local clubs participate in regional leagues, and local enthusiasts engage in informal matches in fields and streets.
Basketball has gained popularity, particularly among the youth. Local schools and universities have teams that compete in various competitions, contributing to the growth of the sport in the area.
Volleyball is enjoyed by both men and women and is frequently played in schools and community centers. Local tournaments are held to promote the sport.
Athletics, particularly running, has a following in Arua, with local athletes participating in various competitions. The region has produced several notable athletes who compete at national and international levels.
Rugby is emerging as a popular sport in Arua, with efforts made to establish teams and leagues. The sport is particularly appealing to youth and educational institutions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arua.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Ugandan cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants and cafes in Arua offer vegetarian and vegan options such as bean stews, vegetable curries, and fresh fruit plates. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly to ensure suitable meals.
Gluten-free choices can be found at select eateries, particularly those with international menus. Dishes like grilled fish, rice-based meals, and fresh salads can be good options for those following a gluten-free diet.