Arua - Discovering Uganda

Travelling to Arua

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Arua, a pretty good destination in Uganda (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Arua and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Arua, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Uganda, here's everything to know about Arua for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Arua

Arua is a town located in the northwestern part of Uganda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is the largest town in the West Nile sub-region and is the administrative center of Arua District. Arua is known for its vibrant markets, including the Arua Central Market, and is an important transportation hub connecting Uganda with neighboring countries. The town has a population of around 82,000 people and is home to a variety of ethnic groups, including the Lugbara, Kakwa, and Madi. Arua is also a popular destination for tourists visiting Uganda due to its proximity to national parks, such as Murchison Falls National Park and the nearby Rhino Fund Uganda.

What to visit in Arua

1. Arua Hill - This is a hill located in Arua town, and it offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding areas. It's a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers.
2. Oli Health Center - This is a former leprosy center that has been turned into a museum. It tells the story of the leprosy epidemic in Uganda in the 1940s and 1950s.
3. Arua Central Market - This is one of the largest markets in the West Nile region of Uganda. It's a great place to shop for local crafts and to try some of the traditional foods of the area.
4. Rhino Camp - This is a wildlife reserve that's home to a number of species, including elephants, giraffes, and rhinos. It's a great place to go on a safari and see some of Uganda's iconic wildlife.
5. Catholic Cathedral - This is an impressive Catholic cathedral in the heart of Arua. The architecture is stunning, and it's a great place to learn about the Catholic faith in Uganda.
6. Arua Airport - This is the main airport in the region, and it's located just outside of Arua town. It's a great place to take a scenic flight over the region and get a bird's eye view of the landscape. 7. Adumi Hills - This is another hill located about 50 kilometers from Arua town. It's a popular hiking spot and offers great views of the surrounding areas.
8. Murchison Falls National Park - While not within the boundaries of Arua, this national park is located about 250 kilometers to the southeast and is a popular attraction for visitors to the region. It's home to stunning waterfalls and incredible wildlife, including elephants, lions, and hippos.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Uganda, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Arua.

When to go on holiday to Arua

The best time to go on holiday to Arua, Uganda is typically during the dry months of December to February and June to September. During these months, the weather is generally warm and dry, and there is minimal chance of rain. However, keep in mind that Arua can be visited throughout the year. The rainy season, which is from March to May and October to November, can bring heavy rain that may limit outdoor activities. If you plan to visit during these months, be sure to bring appropriate rain gear.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Arua

Arua is a town located in Northern Uganda. Here are some options to get there: 1. By air: You can take a flight to Arua Airport from Entebbe International Airport in Kampala, or from other airports in Uganda. There are several airlines that operate daily or weekly flights to Arua.
2. By bus: There are several bus companies that operate daily buses to Arua from Kampala and other major towns in Uganda. The journey takes about 6-8 hours depending on the route and traffic.
3. By taxi: You can take a taxi from Kampala or other towns in Uganda to Arua. This is a faster option than the bus, but it can be more expensive.
4. By private car: You can also rent a car or hire a private driver to take you to Arua. This gives you more flexibility and allows you to stop at any point of interest along the way.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Arua, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Arua

Arua, located in northern Uganda, has a unique food culture with a variety of delicious dishes that reflect the region's rich ethnicity and local produce. Here are some of the typical foods of Arua: 1. Ekwang: A traditional dish that is made of cocoyam, peanut paste, and meat (usually beef or fish) that’s wrapped in leaves and steamed. 2. Malakwang: Another traditional dish, malakwang is made of vegetables like sorghum leaves, groundnuts, and sesame seeds. It’s a thick stew that’s usually served with millet bread or rice. 3. Groundnut soup: A soup made of groundnuts (peanuts), beef, and local vegetables like pumpkin leaves. It’s usually eaten with starchy foods like cassava or posho (maize flour porridge). 4. Chapati: A popular flatbread that’s made with wheat flour, oil, and water. It can be eaten on its own or used to scoop up stews or curries. 5. Lwokobi: A stir-fry made with cocoyam leaves, groundnuts, and dried fish. 6. Oluwombo: A dish made of marinated beef, chicken or fish that is wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. 7. Matooke: A staple dish in Uganda, matooke is made of mashed bananas that are cooked and wrapped in banana leaves. It’s usually eaten with stews or curries. 8. Rolex: A popular street food in Uganda, rolex is an omelette made with veggies and rolled up in a chapati. It’s a quick and filling meal/snack that’s easy to eat on the go.
Overall, the food in Arua is quite tasty and nutritious, with plenty of flavorful dishes to try!
You can find general info about typical foods in Uganda here.

Is Arua an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Uganda, Arua can be considered a bit more expensive due to its position as a commercial center. However, the cost of living and travel expenses in Arua are generally still lower than many other major tourist destinations around the world. It also depends on the type of activities and accommodation you choose. Luxury hotels and upscale tours can be pricier, while budget accommodations and experiences like local food markets can be more affordable. In short, while Arua might be slightly more expensive than other destinations in the area, it is still quite affordable compared to many other top tourist destinations.

Where to find accomodation in Arua

In Arua, Uganda, the best areas to find accommodation would be in the center of town near Arua Hill or in the neighborhoods of Mvara or Oli. These areas offer easy access to the town's markets, shops, restaurants, and other local attractions. Additionally, accommodations in these areas are conveniently located near public transportation hubs, making it easier for visitors to explore other parts of the city.
You can check hotel prices at Arua here:
Booking.com

Is Arua a safe destination for tourists?

Arua, Uganda is generally a safe place for tourists, but it is important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety. It is recommended that visitors avoid travelling alone at night, especially in secluded or unfamiliar areas. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to prevent theft or pickpocketing. It's always a good idea to travel with reputable tour companies and avoid accepting unsolicited offers for transportation or accommodation. Additionally, make sure to research the local customs and laws before your trip to avoid any cultural misunderstandings.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Uganda here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Arua.

What type of travelers will enjoy Arua the most?

Arua in Uganda is a destination that can be enjoyed by all types of travelers. However, it may appeal more to families and adventure seekers.
Families will appreciate the tranquil environment and the many outdoor activities that can be enjoyed in Arua. They can visit the National Park and enjoy game drives, bird watching, nature walks, and cultural tours. These activities are great ways for families to bond and create memories.
For young people looking for fun, Arua may not be the ideal destination. The town is relatively quiet, and there are not many entertainment options beyond the national park. However, they can still enjoy the stunning natural beauty, such as the scenic Nile River and the beautiful waterfalls in the region.
Couples looking for a romantic getaway may find Arua appealing because of its peaceful and serene environment. They can enjoy romantic walks in nature, relax beside the winding Nile River, and indulge in the luxury of the region's many hotels and lodges.
All in all, Arua is an excellent destination for travelers who want to experience the beauty of nature and immerse themselves in local culture.

How to get around Arua

In Arua, Uganda, the most common mode of transportation for getting around the city are Boda- boda (motorcycle taxis), taxis and buses. Boda-bodas and taxis are generally available at most street corners and bus stations. Buses operate on fixed routes and passengers can flag them down from the side of the road.

What to see around Arua

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Arua, Uganda: 1. Murchison Falls National Park - This is Uganda's largest national park and it is situated about 2 hours away from Arua. The park offers stunning views of waterfalls and wildlife.
2. Rhino Sanctuary – It is located about 1 hour from Arua and it is a good place to see Uganda's rhinos in their natural habitat.
3. Arua Hill - This is a beautiful hill situated just outside of Arua town, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
4. Bugungu Wildlife Reserve - This is a great place to see various wildlife species such as elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes.
5. Lake Albert - It is about a 45-minute drive from Arua town and it is a great place to enjoy some outdoor activities such as fishing or boating.
6. Kidepo Valley National Park – Even though it's a bit far from Arua (5-6 hours' drive), Kidepo Valley is a must-visit place if you're interested in wildlife and nature. It's one of the most remote and least visited parks in Africa, but it offers a unique opportunity to see some wildlife species that can't be found anywhere else in Uganda.
For every travel information about Uganda you can click here.

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