Best things to do in Mbale

Best things to do in Mbale

Mbale is located around 230 kilometers northeast of Kampala in Eastern Uganda. The city of Mbale lies at the foot of the non-active Mount Elgon – Uganda’s second tallest mountain.  Formerly Mbale town was elevated by the government of Uganda to city status due to its growth and development.

Mbale city’s history dates back to Uganda’s colonial days and some of the old buildings are still in active use in the tow n.

Mbale’s idyllic location near mount Elgon National Park, Sipi Falls, and the Pian Upe Wildlife reserve have made it an interesting tourist attraction worth visiting.

In this article, we’ll take a look at all the things you can do to enjoy your visit and stay in and around Mbale in Eastern Uganda.

What to do in Mbale City

City Walk in Mbale

Mbale, like other Ugandan city, has an entertaining feel when compared to the fast pace of Kampala. This makes it a good place to walk on foot and see the various old building, interact with locals, and really connect with the place.

As a town with a deep culture of coffee, you can stop at any of the local restaurants for a cup of coffee that is prepared the way locals often take their coffee.

Hiking

One of the top tourist activities to do around Mbale is hiking. You can visit the popular Sipi Falls, and Wanale cliff, or hike inside Mount Elgon National Park.

There are many routes and you get to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

Visit Mount Elgon National Park

Mount Elgon is Uganda’s 2nd tallest mountain and its summit encloses the world’s largest mountain caldera. Mount Elgon is a dormant volcano that was at one time taller than Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s tallest mountain.

In Mount Elgon National Park, you will be able to see many animals and birds as well as the changing mountain climate that is simply stunning.

Visit Sipi Falls

Sipi Falls is a series of 3 beautiful waterfalls in Kapchorwa just a short drive out of Mbale Town. Sipi Falls tours are very popular with both local Ugandans and visitors from outside Uganda. Safari vacations and travel services brings you a full itinerary enlightening all the things to do in Sipi Falls.

Bird watching

Uganda is home to more than 1000 different bird species and the areas around Mbale are good for bird watching. You can visit the various forested areas as well as wetlands for large numbers of birds.

The Kapkwai forest exploration center offers excellent opportunities for birders since it has most of the bird species found in the Elgon national park. Common species include cinnamon chested bee-eater, golden-winged sunbird, and Doherty’s bush strike. Most of the birds recorded here are forest birds and Afro-montane moorland endemics.

Nyero Rock Paintings

The Nyero rock paintings are located around 60 km north of Mbale town. The Nyero rock paintings are one of the finest rock art signs in the region and Uganda as a whole.

Attend the Imbalu Ceremony

The Imbalu (safe male circumcision) is a legendary ceremony among the Bagisu ethnic group that marks the initiation of boys into manhood. The ritual brings a festive atmosphere to the Elgon region and the Music blares, the dance is engrossing, and food is in plenty. The opening ceremony is usually around the Month of August of every even-numbered year.

This is a great cultural experience that you can only enjoy in Mbale. Since the Imbalu ceremony has a schedule, safari vacations and travel services recommends that you should first know the schedule and plan your Mbale visit properly.

Photography

Visiting Mbale and the areas around present incredible opportunities for photography. From the ‘small town with history’ vibes to the countless waterfalls, stunning views, culture, and more, you will be using your camera at every turn.

Take a look at this photography on safari guide to help you to understand all the ins and outs of taking photos while on your Uganda safari holiday.

Note:

For many years, Mbale’s tourist attractions seemed to run under the rudder but that has quickly changed and now Mbale and the entire Elgon region is a selling tourism destination. Visits to Mbale are best combined with Hiking the Sipi Falls, Climbing Mount Elgon, or even doing a longer Eastern Uganda safari that includes a visit to Kidepo Valley National Park.

Safari vacations and travel services  helps clients plan for the entire trip to Mbale  and other tourist destinations in Uganda and Rwanda, we continue and book permits where it’s needed, transport and accommodation all on client’s behalf to avoid inconveniences after you’ve readily arrived for the safari. For inquiries and more information feel free to contact us