Mbarara City, Uganda’s “land of milk and honey”, is unquestionably Uganda’s second-biggest urban hub after its capital Kampala. Mbarara is the gateway to the southwestern region of the country with a rich Ankole cultural heritage. Whether you’re into history, cattle, or busy markets, the Mbarara tour hits all the spots. Mbarara’s roads are smoother, the tourism vibe is up, and the Ankole pride is evident. Starting early at Nkokonjeru, then lunch at Igongo, and ending up with the long-horned cattle at Emburara is the most remarkable feeling.
Royal tombs at Nkokonjeru
The best way to kick off the Mbarara City tour is to start at Nkokonjeru royal tombs in Kakiika, about 3 km west of Mbarara’s center off the Bushenyi road. This is where the last two Ankole kings, that is, Omugabe Edward Solomon Kahaya II, who died in 1944, and Omugabe Sir Charles Godfrey Rutahaba Gasyonga II, who also died in 1982, are laid to rest. Eight other graves dot the site, housing royals and other prominent figures from the Ankole Kingdom, abolished in 1967 by Milton Obote. Recently refurbished after years of neglect, the tombs got a polish with a modern structure and slabs, thanks to local efforts trying to reclaim history. The spot is quiet, and a must for anyone digging into Banyankole roots.
Igongo Cultural Museum
Next stop after Nkokonjeru is just 12 km east to Biharwe along the Mbarara-Masaka highway, and that’s the Igongo Cultural Centre. Opened in 2011 by President Museveni, this spot is undoubtedly the heartbeat of Ankole culture. The Eriijukiro Museum inside is a whole treasure serving guests with long-horned cattle artefacts, milk gourds, spears, and regalia from the kingdom’s old glory days. The cultural village out back shows how Banyankole lived centuries ago with grass huts, grinding stones, the works. The restaurant serves Ankole dishes like “eshabwe” and millet bread. The gardens are lush, stunning, and the Nkwanzi craft shop has souvenirs for guests who would be interested in items like a beaded necklace or a book on Ankole’s 500-year history.
Eclipse Monument.
Right across from Igongo, guests can now hike up Biharwe Hill to the Eclipse Monument. This trio of pillars marks a wild tale from 1520 AD when an eclipse frightened a Bunyoro king mid-invasion, saving Ankole’s cattle. Historians put it as the Great Lakes region’s only dated pre-colonial event. The 1-hour trek is not as short but demands physical fitness. At 1,362 meters, the view of Mbarara’s sprawl is exceptional.
Local Market.
The Mbarara Central Market is right in the heart of Mbarara. The market is an overload with vendors up and down, piles of matooke, fresh tilapia from Lake Nakivale, and Ankole ghee in gourds. Today, it’s busier than ever, with Uganda’s tourism boom driving foot traffic. Cash is key here, as a few thousand shillings get you snacks like roasted maize or a woven basket. It’s kind of chaotic, colorful, and pure Mbarara vibe.
Omugabe Palace at Kamukuzi
Guests can now head to Kamukuzi Hill, 1 km off the Mbarara Bushenyi road, for the Omugabe Palace. This was the Ankole king’s residence until the kingdom fell in 1967. Renovated in 2023, it’s now open to the public, with the 1930s architecture intact, like red tiled roofs and whitewashed walls. Inside, guests will spot the king’s main house, the old parliament “Lukiiko” hall and Mbaguta’s Monument honoring the kingdom’s first prime minister. Today, they’ve added interactive tours like traditional dance and storytelling. The spot offers the most spectacular views of the city.
Long-horned Ankole cattle at Emburara Farm Lodge
Emburara Farm Lodge is just 10 km southwest of Mbarara, situated in Nyamitanga. This is the guests’ opportunity to see the iconic long-horned Ankole cattle, a true definition of Mbarara and Ankole heritage. Sighting the majestic beasts with horns curved like a tire is a breathtaking feeling while on the Mbarara tour. Guests are also allowed to milk these cows hands-on by themselves. Guests can also watch them graze across rolling pastures. A half-day experience at Emburara Farm Lode also includes a farm tour and a taste of fresh milk or ghee.
