Top 8 Best Things To Do In Mbale Uganda : Mbale is located in Eastern Uganda, around 230 kilometers northeast of Kampala. Mbale is located at the foot of Mount Elgon, Uganda’s second tallest mountain. Mbale’s history extends back to Uganda’s colonial era, and some of the town’s historic structures are still in use today.
Mbale’s picturesque location near Mount Elgon National Park, Sipi Falls, and the Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve has made it a popular tourist destination. In this post, we’ll look at all you can do in and around Mbale, Eastern Uganda, to make the most of your visit and stay. Here are the Things to do in Mbale City
- Hiking
Hiking is a popular tourist activity in and around Mbale. You can walk inside Mount Elgon National Park or see the famed Sipi Falls and Wanale Cliff. There are numerous routes available, and you may enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding areas.
- Pay a visit to Mount Elgon National Park.
Mount Elgon is Uganda’s second highest peak, and its summit contains the world’s largest mountain crater. Mount Elgon is a dormant volcano that was formerly taller than Africa’s tallest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro. Many animals and birds can be seen in Mount Elgon National Park, as well as the shifting mountain climate, which is truly breathtaking.
- Visit Sipi Falls
Sipi Falls is a set of three stunning waterfalls located in Kapchorwa, just outside of Mbale Town. Sipi Falls trips are quite popular among both native Ugandans and international visitors.
- Birdwatching
Uganda is home to over 1000 bird species, and the grounds around Mbale are ideal for birdwatching. You can go birdwatching in various woodland areas as well as wetlands.
The Kapkwai Forest Exploration Center is ideal for birders because it has the majority of the bird species found in Elgon National Park. The cinnamon chested bee-eater, golden-winged sunbird, and Doherty’s bush-strike are all common species. The majority of the birds seen here are woodland and Afro-montane moorland endemics.
- City Walk in Mbale
Mbale, like other Ugandan towns, has a more relaxed atmosphere than Kampala. It a great spot to walk around and observe the different historic buildings, interact with locals, and really connect with the city. As a town with a strong coffee culture, you can stop at any of the local restaurants for a cup of coffee served the way the people do.
- Nyero Rock Paintings
The Nyero rock drawings are located around 60 kilometers north of Mbale. The Nyero rock drawings are among the best in the region and in Uganda as a whole.
- Participate in the Imbalu Ceremony.
The Imbalu (male circumcision) is a traditional Bagisu tribespeople event that symbolizes the initiation of boys in manhood. The ceremony creates a joyous environment in the Elgon region, with music blasting, captivating dance, and plenty of food. The opening ceremony is normally held in August of each even-numbered year. It is a fantastic cultural experience that can only be had in Mbale. Because the Imbalu ceremony has a schedule, you should first learn about it and organize your Mbale visit accordingly.
- Photography
Visiting Mbale and the surrounding environs provides an amazing photographic opportunity. You’ll be utilizing your camera at every turn, from the ‘small town with history’ feelings to the endless waterfalls, gorgeous scenery, culture, and more. Take a look at this photography on safari guide to learn everything you need to know about snapping images on your Uganda safari vacation.
FINAL THOUGHTS
For many years, Mbale’s tourist attractions appeared to be on the rudder, but that has quickly changed, and Mbale and the entire Elgon Region are now popular tourist destinations. Mbale visits are best paired with hiking the Sipi Falls, climbing Mount Elgon, or taking a longer Eastern Uganda Safari that includes a visit to Kidepo Valley National Park.
