Things To Do
in Kasese
Kasese is a town located in western Uganda near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It serves as the administrative and commercial center of Kasese District. The town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including the Rwenzori Mountains and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Kasese has a diverse population with people from various ethnic groups, including the Bakonzo, Bamba, and Basongora.
- "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): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $12
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a guided trek in the stunning Rwenzori Mountains, known for their breathtaking views. Make sure to take in the unique flora and fauna endemic to the area.
Enjoy a packed lunch on the mountain before continuing the trek. Capture beautiful photos of the lush landscapes and maybe spot some wildlife.
Return to Kasese for a traditional Ugandan dinner at a local restaurant. Unwind and share stories of your adventure with fellow travelers.
Begin with an early morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park to witness lions, elephants, and buffalo. The sunrise over the savannah adds to the excitement of spotting wildlife.
Enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, where you can see hippos and various bird species up close. Relax and take in the picturesque views of the surrounding park.
Head back to your lodge for dinner and a chance to recount the day's exciting wildlife encounters. You might also catch the sunset over the park, which is a sight to behold.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural diversity and vibrant local traditions.
- Proximity to Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including the Rwenzori Mountains.
- Friendly and welcoming communities.
- Growing tourism sector, providing economic opportunities.
- Limited infrastructure and healthcare facilities.
- Challenges with transportation and accessibility.
- Vulnerability to climate change impacts, such as flooding and drought.
- Economic dependence on agriculture, which can be affected by market fluctuations.
- Occasional political instability in the region.
Best Activities in Kasese
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning Rwenzori Mountains and trek to the Margherita Peak, the third highest peak in Africa.
Embark on a thrilling safari to encounter diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and hippos, amidst the park's picturesque landscapes.
Enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where you can spot various bird species, crocodiles, and hippos while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Places to Visit in Kasese
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities of the snow-capped peaks and unique landscapes.
Provides stunning views of diverse wildlife, savannah, and crater lakes, offering excellent photo opportunities.
Known for its picturesque views of the Kazinga Channel and the panoramic landscapes of the park.
Food in Kasese
Kasese Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh tilapia from Lake George, seasoned with local herbs and spices, and grilled to perfection. Best enjoyed at lakefront restaurants like Relaxing Point Resort.
Must-Try!
A staple dish made from steamed green bananas, often served with peanut sauce or meat stew. Look for Matoke at local eateries and food stalls.
Delicious and filling street food made from mashed bananas and flour, deep-fried until crispy. You can find Kabalagala at various street food vendors throughout Kasese.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, meats, and local food vendors. Explore the market's vibrant stalls to find a variety of street foods such as grilled meats, samosas, and fresh fruit juices.
This lively market is a great spot to sample traditional snacks like Rolex (a Ugandan street food made from eggs and vegetables wrapped in a chapati), as well as to mingle with locals and experience the authentic hustle and bustle of Kasese.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kasese, it is important to greet people with respect, using phrases like 'How are you?' and 'Good morning' in the local language to show politeness and consideration for others.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Kasese, and it is customary to show deference and consideration for older individuals in the community.
Wearing modest and respectful clothing is important in Kasese, particularly when visiting religious sites or attending community gatherings.
Safety
Tipping in Kasese
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kasese, Uganda, tipping is not as common as it is in some other countries. However, in upscale hotels, restaurants, or for exceptional service, a 10% tip may be appreciated.
Cash is the most common form of payment in Kasese, Uganda. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller businesses or rural areas. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash when traveling in Kasese.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Kasese is during the dry season when the weather is cooler and there is less rainfall. This is also the optimum time for gorilla trekking and hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains.
Expect heavy rainfall during this season, resulting in lush green landscapes and vibrant vegetation. The wet season is not ideal for outdoor activities, but it offers a unique opportunity to witness the natural beauty of the region.
During the shoulder season, the weather is generally good, and it's a great time to explore the national parks, take boat trips on the Kazinga Channel, and enjoy wildlife viewing.
Kasese at Night
Hiking in Kasese
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Home to several hiking trails, the park features the stunning Rwenzori Mountain range with its unique flora and fauna, offering a variety of trekking experiences.
These established trails within the Rwenzori Mountains offer hikers various routes with varying difficulty levels, showcasing breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems.
As part of the Rwenzori range, Mount Stanley is a popular hiking destination known for its challenging trails and impressive glaciers.
Another stunning peak in the Rwenzori Mountains, offering adventurous hikes and breathtaking views from the summit.
While not primarily known for hiking, the park offers several trails that lead to scenic viewpoints and allow visitors to experience the local wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Kasese by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Uganda, located approximately 377 kilometers from Kasese, serving international flights.
The main international airport in Rwanda, located around 400 kilometers from Kasese, known for connecting Rwanda with many global destinations.
An airport serving Arua, Uganda, located approximately 382 kilometers from Kasese, handling both domestic and limited international flights.
A small airport located around 280 kilometers from Kasese, primarily serving domestic flights but with potential for international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A Bantu-speaking ethnic group primarily found in southwestern Uganda.
A pastoral community known for their cattle herding, primarily residing around the Rwenzori Mountain region.
An ethnic group native to southwestern Uganda, traditionally engaging in agriculture and cattle rearing.
An ethnic group from the Tooro Kingdom, known for their rich cultural heritage and agricultural practices.
An ethnic group with origins from Rwanda, living in different regions of Uganda including Kasese.
The largest ethnic group in Uganda, predominantly residing in the central region but also present in Kasese.
A sub-group of the Bagisu people, they are also present in the Kasese area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Kasese, with many local teams and a passionate fanbase. Matches often draw large crowds, and the sport is played on various levels, from amateur to semi-professional.
Cricket has gained popularity in Kasese, especially among the youth. Local leagues and tournaments are organized, and the sport is played in schools and community fields.
Volleyball is also widely played in Kasese, with recreational and competitive teams participating in local tournaments. The sport enjoys a good following among both men and women.
Basketball is becoming increasingly popular in urban areas of Kasese, with many youth engaging in the sport in schools and community centers.
Athletics, particularly long-distance running, is popular in Kasese due to Uganda's strong tradition in the sport. Local events often showcase talented runners from the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kasese.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Ugandan cuisine often incorporates meat, many restaurants and cafes in Kasese offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for options like steamed or roasted vegetable platters, fresh salads, and plant-based stews.
Gluten-free options may be more limited, but some eateries in Kasese accommodate gluten-free diets by offering rice-based dishes, grilled meats, and naturally gluten-free local delicacies.