Located in Kigezi region in South Western Uganda, close to the borders of Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is Kabale, a relaxed and friendly town often used as a stop-off point for travelers visiting the gorgeous lake Bunyonyi, Africa’s deepest lake dotted with beautiful islands, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a home for the endangered mountain gorillas and lake Mutanda. It has a mild climate due to its high altitude which makes it a great place to see all the region’s lakes, valleys plus wildlife. It is also the chief town of Kabale district and is mainly inhabited by the Bakiga, also known as the “People of the highlands.”
History.
Kabale means “small stone” named after a small piece of local iron whose heavy weight attracted many people from distant places to see and handle it. Kabale district was nicknamed “Switzerland of Africa” the time when Uganda was still a British protectorate due to its hilly nature and coldness. At that time, Kabale was the seat of the former Kigezi district administration, with the Bakiga as the predominant inhabitants who are known to be bold, majestic, strong and very hardworking people.
Tourist Attractions.
Kabale is an attractive sight-seeing safari destination with various attractions you should not miss out on seeing, some of which include lake Bunyonyi, one of the world’s natural wonders also known as “the place of birds” with 29 islands scattered across its waters, Edirisa cultural museum with many representations of Bakiga lifestyle, Ihimba hot springs greatly valued for its healing properties, the small but scenic waterfalls in Nalweyo sub-county along the Musizi river and the Kahuriro falls in Kiryanga sub-county, the largest drum in East Africa that belongs to Bukumi Christian Parish and the Nyakagyera cave, a home of bats plus birds and a former hide-out for the Batwa pygmies, with an entrance masked with an overgrowth of shrubs and trees.
Safari Activities.
There are many activities in which you can involve while in Kabale and these include wildlife/game viewing and bird watching in Bwindi impenetrable national park, a home of the endangered mountain gorillas, mountain hiking especially around the lake, nature walks where you will enjoy the breath-taking views of the beautiful lake Bunyonyi and you can also visit and explore the Kitagata hot springs in Rubanda. Kabale has a large number of caves and rocks coupled with forest vegetation which provided protection and shelter for the Batwa people during tribal wars and these are must-explore destinations
Accommodation.
Kabale has various accommodation options from where you can refresh, eat something, relax or take a rest. These range from basic to luxury and are affordable that is to say hotels, lodges, guesthouses and campsites, some of which include Cepha’s Inn, Green Hills Hotel, White Horse Inn, Capricorn Hotel, Kabale Guest house, Kibale Hotel and Engagi Guest House.
To book or inquire about a tour to Kabale town , please send us an email at info@ugandasafaribookings.com or call us directly on +256-700135510 to make reservations.
