Things To Do
in Masaka

Steamed and mashed green plantain, often served with groundnut sauce, beef or fish; available in most local eateries and homestead meals.

Must-Try!

A popular Ugandan street-food: a chapati rolled with eggs, vegetables and optional meat; easy to find at markets and roadside stalls.

Fresh fish from Lake Victoria, usually grilled and served with sides like posho, rice or matooke; available at lakeshore landing sites and local restaurants.

A savory, often creamy sauce used with matooke or rice; widely served and made locally.

The busiest market in town for fresh produce, fruits, roasted maize, fresh fish and street snacks; great for photography and sampling fresh local produce.

Informal fish-landing markets where you can watch catches come in and try freshly grilled fish and local accompaniments; busy in the mornings and late afternoons.

Friendly greetings matter—say hello in Luganda (e.g., 'Gyebale ko' to a worker or 'Wasuze otya' in the evening) and use a handshake when meeting someone; show respect to elders.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages, religious sites or attending formal events. Shorts and sleeveless tops are fine in casual settings but avoid very revealing clothing.

Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially in rural areas or religious settings; a small gift or offering is polite if you take close portraits.

Respect local customs regarding hospitality and food sharing; it’s polite to accept small offers of food or drink if offered by hosts.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. For table service at hotels and midrange restaurants, a 5–10% tip is common if service is good. Small tips (a few hundred to a couple thousand UGX) are appreciated by guides, porters and drivers. For informal stalls and street vendors tipping is unusual.

Cash (Ugandan shillings) is widely used, especially in markets and for small purchases. Mobile money (MTN Mobile Money, Airtel Money) is common and accepted by many businesses and taxi/boda drivers. Credit and debit cards are accepted at some hotels and larger restaurants, but don’t rely on cards in smaller establishments; ATMs are available in town but can run low on cash occasionally.

Expect frequent heavy showers which can make dirt roads muddy and slow travel to rural spots; vegetation is lush and birdlife is active. Carry a waterproof jacket and allow extra travel time.

Generally pleasant temperatures, less rain and clearer skies; ideal for outdoor activities, birdwatching and photography. Nights can be cooler; bring a light layer.

Intermittent rains return, with humid conditions and occasional downpours; good for nature trips but expect occasional road disruptions.

Warmer temperatures and drier conditions make travel straightforward, but midday heat can be strong. Hydration and sun protection are important.

The dominant ethnic and linguistic group in the Masaka area, with strong cultural traditions and the Luganda language widely spoken.

Many residents are engaged in agriculture — banana, cassava, coffee, and fishing on nearby lakes — forming the backbone of the local economy.

A sizeable young population active in small-scale trade, services and informal businesses around markets and transport hubs.

A mix of Christians (Catholic and Anglican are prominent), Muslims, and other faith communities, with religious life playing a strong role in social organization.

Vegetarian options can be found (matooke, beans, groundnut sauce, vegetables and rice). Communicate clearly — many dishes include meat or fish by default. Markets and basic eateries offer fresh produce to assemble simple vegetarian meals.

Vegan choices exist but are more limited; request no dairy or eggs and favour stews made with vegetables, beans and groundnut sauce. Bring snacks if you have strict needs.

Staples like matooke, posho (maize meal) and rice are naturally gluten-free. Be cautious with chapati and baked goods which contain wheat; ask about cross-contamination at shared stalls.

Eat cooked hot foods and peel fruit you buy from street vendors; drink bottled or treated water if unsure of water safety.