Things To Do
in Gulu
Gulu is a vibrant town located in northern Uganda, known for its rich culture and history. The town serves as a hub for trade, commerce, and transportation in the region. Gulu is surrounded by lush green landscapes and offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
The people of Gulu are known for their warm hospitality and resilience in the face of past conflicts.
- "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): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Gulu Cultural Center. Engage with local artisans and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Acholi people.
After lunch, take a guided tour of the historical sites around Gulu, including the old colonial buildings. Enjoy the vibrant street life as you explore markets and local shops.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner. Experience traditional Acholi cuisine and listen to local music.
Begin your morning with a nature walk in the nearby hills, enjoying the scenic views and fresh air. Look out for local bird species and unique flora.
In the afternoon, visit the local farms and learn about sustainable agricultural practices from the farmers. Participate in hands-on activities if you wish.
Conclude your day with a relaxing evening by a bonfire. Share stories with fellow travelers or locals while enjoying locally brewed beverages.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diversity
- Accessibility to natural beauty and wildlife, including national parks
- Growing tourism industry and investment opportunities
- Community-oriented population and strong social ties
- Improved infrastructure and transportation over the years
- Limited access to advanced healthcare facilities
- Economic challenges and high levels of poverty
- Poor infrastructure in some areas, including roads and utilities
- Vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters
- Security concerns and past conflicts affecting stability
Best Activities in Gulu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning waterfalls, wildlife, and boat safaris in this national park located near Gulu.
Enjoy activities such as whitewater rafting, boat cruises, and fishing along the scenic Nile River.
Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting traditional villages and engaging in cultural experiences.
Discover the beautiful landscapes and diverse flora and fauna through hiking and nature walks in the surrounding areas of Gulu.
Places to Visit in Gulu
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of Gulu town and is a popular spot for taking photos.
Provides stunning views of the town and surrounding landscapes, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
An opportunity to capture the vibrant atmosphere and bustling life of the town.
Food in Gulu
Gulu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish featuring meat, groundnuts, and vegetables, steamed in banana leaves. It's a must-try for experiencing authentic Ugandan flavors. You can find Luwombo at local restaurants and street food vendors in Gulu.
Must-Try!
Acholi Malakwang is a hearty stew made with greens, groundnut paste, and a choice of meat, such as chicken or goat. It's commonly served with matoke or millet bread. Visit local eateries and markets to savor this regional delight.
Ovaltine Dug is a popular local drink made from Ovaltine, milk, and sugar. It's a comforting beverage often enjoyed at cafes and tea stalls across Gulu.
A unique delicacy in Gulu, roasted grasshoppers are a crunchy and protein-rich snack. Look for vendors selling these flavorful treats in local markets and street food stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of indigenous produce, from fresh fruits and vegetables to spices and grains. It's also a prime spot to sample street food like rolex (chapati wrapped around eggs and vegetables) and grilled meats.
Pece Market is renowned for its array of fresh fish, a staple ingredient in many local dishes. Visitors can sample grilled fish and other seafood preparations prepared right at the market stalls.
For a natural and sweet treat, keep an eye out for the Bee Me Honey street vendor who offers an assortment of locally sourced honey and honey-based products.
Waragi, a popular Ugandan gin, is best sampled at local waragi stands scattered around Gulu. It's a great way to mingle with locals and savor this beloved spirit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Gulu, it is important to show respect for elders by using formal language and gestures. Younger individuals are expected to greet elders first and avoid addressing them by their first names.
Hospitality is highly valued in Gulu. It is customary to welcome guests with warmth and generosity, offering food and drinks as a sign of respect and friendship.
Certain topics such as politics, religion, and cultural traditions are sensitive and should be approached with care and respect for differing viewpoints. It is important to avoid causing offense when discussing these subjects.
Safety
Tipping in Gulu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Gulu, Uganda. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or for services.
Payment in Gulu, Uganda is primarily done in cash, especially in local markets and smaller establishments. Some larger businesses may accept credit cards, but it's always best to have cash on hand. Mobile money services like MTN Mobile Money and Airtel Money are also widely used for transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for safaris and outdoor activities, with cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall.
Expect heavier rainfall, lush vegetation, and possible road closures, but also a great time for birdwatching and exploring the countryside.
Gulu at Night
Hiking in Gulu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful reserve that offers scenic walking and hiking trails through varied landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities.
A popular hiking destination with breathtaking views from the summit and a challenging trail that attracts many trekking enthusiasts.
Known for its rugged savannah and hills, this park offers hiking trails that lead you through stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
A serene forest area that provides a tranquil atmosphere for hiking amid diverse flora and fauna.
While primarily known for its waterfalls, the park offers several hiking trails that lead through beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Gulu by plane.
The main international airport serving Uganda, located near the town of Entebbe, approximately 375 km south of Gulu.
Located in Kigali, Rwanda, this airport is about 400 km southwest of Gulu and serves as a major gateway for international flights in the region.
Located in Nairobi, Kenya, approximately 800 km southeast of Gulu, it is one of the busiest airports in Africa and offers numerous international flights.
A smaller airport located in Arua, Uganda, about 205 km west of Gulu, providing regional flights and some international connections.
Located in Mbarara, Uganda, approximately 350 km southwest of Gulu, it serves regional flights and is being developed to increase capacity.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Gulu, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditional customs.
A significant ethnic group in the region, part of the larger Luo peoples found in East Africa.
Though primarily from central Uganda, some Baganda reside in Gulu, engaging in trade and business.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups that coexist in Gulu, contributing to the area's diversity.
Gulu has hosted refugees from neighboring countries and Internally Displaced Persons due to past conflicts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Gulu, with many local leagues and community teams actively participating in matches and tournaments.
Basketball is gaining popularity among the youth in Gulu, with several schools and communities forming teams and holding regular games.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and community events, attracting both male and female players in Gulu.
Running and track events are popular in Gulu, with many local competitions promoting fitness and talent development.
Netball is particularly popular among women and girls in Gulu, with schools and clubs regularly organizing matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gulu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and vegan options are becoming more available in Gulu, especially at international restaurants and cafes. Look for establishments like Coffee Hut and Endiro Coffee that cater to these dietary preferences.
While gluten-free options may not be widely advertised, many restaurants in Gulu are accommodating to dietary restrictions. Establishments such as The Boma Hotel and Endiro Coffee provide gluten-free selections upon request.