Things To Do
in Kasese
Kasese, a western Uganda town at the foot of the Rwenzori Mountains, serves as a gateway to dramatic highland scenery and wildlife-rich parks. The town sits amidst tea estates, rivers, and green hills, inviting outdoor lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. Expect warm hospitality, lively markets, and easy access to iconic landscapes like the Rwenzoris and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
With its cool highland climate and scenic backdrop, Kasese offers a compelling mix of adventure and village life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with an early morning safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where the golden rays of the sun illuminate the lush landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, buffalo, and the famous tree-climbing lions as you traverse the park in a guided vehicle. The sounds of birds chirping and the rustling of leaves create an enchanting atmosphere as you immerse yourself in Uganda's rich wildlife.
After the morning adventure, enjoy a packed lunch by the scenic shores of the Kazinga Channel, where you can relax and watch hippos and crocodiles basking in the sun. Following lunch, embark on a thrilling boat cruise along the channel, providing an excellent opportunity for birdwatching and spotting wildlife along the banks. The afternoon light casts a magical glow over the water as you enjoy the serene beauty of your surroundings.
As the sun sets, return to your lodge for a delightful dinner featuring local Ugandan cuisine, where you can share stories of the day's adventures. After dinner, gather around a fire to listen to traditional Ugandan music and stories from locals, deepening your connection to the culture. Enjoy the cool evening breeze while gazing at the stars, bringing a perfect end to an exhilarating day.
Start your day by visiting the bustling markets of Kasese Town, where local vendors showcase fresh produce, handmade crafts, and vibrant fabrics. Engage with local artisans and learn about their crafts, from basket weaving to pottery, while enjoying the lively atmosphere filled with laughter and chatter. Take time to savor a cup of Ugandan coffee from a nearby café, immersing yourself in the local lifestyle.
In the afternoon, visit the Rwenzori Mountains National Park visitor center to gain insights into the region's unique ecosystem and diverse wildlife. Afterward, embark on a guided cultural tour of nearby villages, where you can interact with the Bakonzo people and learn about their traditions, dances, and daily life. Share a meal with a local family, experiencing authentic Ugandan hospitality firsthand.
As evening settles in, return to Kasese Town for a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional dishes such as matoke and posho. Take a leisurely stroll through the town, soaking in the vibrant nightlife and perhaps stopping by a local music venue to enjoy live performances. Conclude your night with reflections on the rich cultural experiences you encountered throughout the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥗Mid-range restaurant meal | $8-20 |
| ☕Coffee/tea in cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚕Local transport (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs and market goods | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and easy access to Rwenzori and QE National Park
- Warm hospitality and cultural richness
- Relatively affordable compared to other East Africa destinations
- Pleasant cool climate in highland areas
- Limited nightlife and nightlife venues
- Roads can be rough in rainy seasons
- Limited international flight connections directly to Kasese
- Healthcare facilities may require travel for complex care
- "Habari" - Hello / How are you?
- "Asante" - Thank you
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Samahani, naweza kupiga picha?" - Excuse me, can I take a photo?
- "Naweza kupata maji?" - Can I get water?
- "Msaada tafadhali" - Help please
- "Tutaonana baadaye" - See you later
Places to Visit in Kasese
Visit one of these nice places.
Elevated viewpoints near Ruboni Village offering dramatic photos of the Rwenzori peaks and valleys.
Colorful market scenes with vendors, spices, produce, and local textiles.
Crystalline lakes and dramatic valley scenery with snow-capped peaks on clear days.
Nearby cascades and rivers perfect for landscape and long-exposure photography.
Food in Kasese
Kasese Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed plantains served with a creamy peanut sauce; a staple meal widely found in households and eateries.
Must-Try!
A traditional dish where meat or mushrooms are steamed in banana leaves with vegetables and spices.
Maize meal (posho) served with stewed beans or greens; a common, filling option.
Freshly cooked tilapia or other fish from Lake George or surrounding rivers, often grilled or fried.
Rolled chapati with eggs or vegetables, roasted maize, and samosas for quick bites on the go.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling morning market offering fresh produce, street foods, and local crafts.
Local market area near Kilembe with produce and ready-to-eat meal options.
Popular quick bites like rolex, roasted maize, samosas, and sweet potatoes sold by vendors along streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a smile and a handshake; use the right hand; be polite when approaching elders.
Ask permission before photographing people; some might require a small tip.
Modest clothing in towns; dress more conservatively in rural areas and during visiting religious sites.
Avoid sensitive political topics; show interest in local customs and culture.
Safety
Tipping in Kasese
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for guides, drivers, and service staff; typical amounts are small, around 1,000–5,000 UGX per person for a service, more for longer tours.
Cash is commonly used, especially UGX; some places accept mobile money or credit cards at larger hotels; carry small denominations.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with cooler evenings; easier trekking conditions but some trails can be dusty; good for mountain photography.
Heavy rains and humidity; lush landscapes and roaring rivers but trails can be slippery; pack rain gear and gaiters.
Kasese at Night
Hiking in Kasese
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
World-class trekking routes including acclimatization walks and high-altitude circuits; guide services required.
Scenic valley hikes with views of forests and river gorges near Kasese.
Accessible waterfall viewpoints suitable for day hikes and photography.
Airports
How to reach Kasese by plane.
Small domestic airport offering regional flights and connections to the region; best coordinated with a driver for onward travel.
Uganda's main international hub near Kampala; access Kasese by road or domestic flights; many international connections here.
Rwanda's major airport; a possible gateway for travelers continuing to Uganda's western region; road or air transfer options exist.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in Kasese, with rich cultural traditions and language; many residents speak Runyakitara and Swahili in addition to English.
People from Tooro and neighboring districts contribute to Kasese's diverse population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Uganda, with local clubs, street games, and community fields.
Growing popularity in towns and schools; organized games and competitions occur on weekend evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kasese.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common; ask for greens, beans, matooke, and cassava dishes; clarify no fish or meat if necessary.