Kabale - Discovering Rwanda

Travelling to Kabale

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kabale, a pretty good destination in Rwanda (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kabale 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 Kabale, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Rwanda, here's everything to know about Kabale for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kabale

Kabale is a town located in the southwestern region of Rwanda, near the border with Uganda. It is the capital of the Kabale District and is known for its scenic beauty, with rolling hills covered in green tea plantations and misty valleys. The town has a population of around 50,000 people and is situated at an altitude of over 1,900 meters, making it one of the highest towns in Rwanda. Kabale has a subtropical highland climate with temperatures ranging from cool to mild year-round, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the nearby national parks and natural attractions.

What to visit in Kabale

Kabale is a beautiful town located in Southern Rwanda which is endowed with natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and interesting historical sites. Here are some of the top tourist attractions of Kabale: 1. Lake Bunyonyi - This lake is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Rwanda. It is a perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding hills and beautiful islands. Visitors can go swimming, canoeing, birdwatching, or take a boat ride to explore the lake's islands.
2. Hot Springs - Kabale has a number of natural hot springs that are believed to have healing properties. The most popular hot springs in Kabale are the Nyamyirimo Hot Springs, which are located close to Lake Bunyonyi.
3. Rugezi Marsh - This marsh is a birdwatcher's paradise, as it is home to over 200 species of birds. Visitors can go on a guided bird-watching tour, or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery of the marsh.
4. Gahinga Batwa Trail - This guided cultural tour offers visitors a chance to learn about the Batwa people who once lived in the forests around the Mgahinga National Park. Visitors will learn about the Batwa way of life, their hunting and gathering skills, and medicinal plants.
5. Mgahinga National Park - Located near Kabale, Mgahinga National Park is home to a variety of primates and other animals such as gorillas, golden monkeys, and forest elephants. Visitors can go on guided nature walks and hikes, and also trek to visit the gorillas.
6. Virunga Volcanoes - These majestic peaks are a popular destination for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. The Virunga Volcanoes offer spectacular scenery, and visitors can trek to the top of Mount Gahinga, Mount Sabyinyo, and Mount Muhabura.
7. Echuya Forest Reserve - This 3,900-hectare forest reserve is home to a variety of primate species, including chimpanzees, and over 150 bird species. Visitors can go on guided walks and hikes to explore the forest.
Each of these attractions offers a unique experience to visitors and provide a glimpse into the beauty and cultural diversity of the Kabale region.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Rwanda, 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 Kabale.

When to go on holiday to Kabale

The best time to visit Kabale in Rwanda is during the dryer months from June to September and December to February. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, and there is less chance of rain. However, it's important to note that Rwanda doesn't experience extreme weather changes, thus you can visit Kabale throughout the year, but you should pack for both sunny and rainy conditions.

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

How to get to Kabale

Kabale is actually a city located in Uganda, not Rwanda. It is situated in the southwestern region of Uganda, very close to the border with Rwanda.
To get to Kabale from Rwanda, you can take a bus from Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, to the border town of Cyanika. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Kabale, which is only about 8 kilometers away. If you are flying into the region, the nearest airport is the Kigali International Airport in Rwanda. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to travel to Kabale. It's important to note that you will need to have a valid visa to enter Uganda if you are not a citizen of a visa-exempt country. You can apply for a visa online or upon arrival at the airport.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kabale, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kabale

Kabale is actually a town in Uganda, not Rwanda. However, here are some traditional Ugandan foods that you might find in Kabale: 1. Matoke - This is a classic Ugandan dish made from steamed and mashed green bananas. It is often served with meat or a savory sauce.
2. Eshabwe - This is a traditional Ugandan sauce made from ghee (clarified butter) and salt. It is often served with matoke or other starchy foods.
3. Chapati - This is a flatbread that is similar to Indian roti. It is made from wheat flour, salt, and water, and is often served with curry or other spicy dishes.
4. Rolex - This is a popular street food in Uganda that consists of a thin omelette rolled up with vegetables and sometimes meat. It is often eaten as a breakfast or snack food.
5. Posho - This is a staple food in Uganda that is similar to polenta or grits. It is made from maize flour and water, and is often served with a stew or sauce.
You can find general info about typical foods in Rwanda here.

Is Kabale an expensive destination for tourists?

Kabale is actually located in Uganda, not Rwanda. However, to answer your question, Kabale can be considered a relatively affordable destination compared to other popular tourist destinations in Africa. The cost of travel and accommodations may vary depending on your budget, preferences, and travel style. But in general, there are various affordable accommodations available such as guesthouses, lodges, and hostels. Food and transport are also generally affordable. However, prices may increase if you opt for more luxurious or high-end options. It's always best to research and plan your budget accordingly to make the most of your trip.

Where to find accomodation in Kabale

Kabale is actually a town in Uganda, not Rwanda. In Kabale town, there are several areas where tourists can find accommodation depending on their preferences and budget. Some popular areas include: 1. Town center: This area has a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget to mid-range hotels. It is also convenient for accessing transportation to other parts of Kabale.
2. Lake Bunyonyi: This is a scenic area located about 8km from Kabale town and offers stunning views of the lake. There are several lodges and campsites around the lake where tourists can stay and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
3. Mutanda Lake Resort: This is a luxury resort located about 20km from Kabale town and overlooking Lake Mutanda. This area is ideal for tourists who want a more secluded and luxurious experience.
4. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: For tourists visiting Kabale to go gorilla trekking, staying in lodges near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is recommended. This area is about 50km from Kabale town but offers easy access to the park.
You can check hotel prices at Kabale here:
Booking.com

Is Kabale a safe destination for tourists?

Kabale is actually a district located in Uganda, not Rwanda. However, both Rwanda and Uganda are generally considered safe places for tourists to visit. Rwanda is known for being one of the safest countries in Africa, with a stable political situation, low crime rates, and a high level of police presence in urban areas. The country has a strong tourism industry and has taken many steps to ensure the safety of its visitors. Uganda, including the Kabale district, is also considered relatively safe for tourists. However, as with any place, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone or at night. Always take appropriate safety measures such as keeping your valuables secure and avoiding isolated areas.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Rwanda here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kabale.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kabale the most?

Kabale, also known as the "Switzerland of Africa," is a scenic town located in southwestern Rwanda. It offers a unique mix of adventure, culture, and nature experiences, making it a great destination for a variety of travelers. Couples looking for a romantic getaway can enjoy the breathtaking views of the rolling hills, serene lakes, and waterfalls that surround the town. There are also several cozy lodges and resorts that offer private cottages and spa treatments for couples to relax and unwind.
Young people looking for fun can explore the town's vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs that offer live music and entertainment. There are also several outdoor adventure activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking that are sure to get the adrenaline pumping.
Families with children will also enjoy Kabale, as there are many family-friendly activities available. These include guided nature walks, visits to local farms, and cultural experiences such as traditional dance performances and craft workshops.
Overall, Kabale is a diverse and beautiful destination that has something to offer for everyone, regardless of age or travel interests.

How to get around Kabale

Kabale is actually a district in southwestern Uganda, not Rwanda. The most common modes of transportation in Kabale are buses, taxis, and boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis). Buses usually cover longer distances within the district and can be board from the central bus park. Taxis, on the other hand, are mostly used for shorter distances within the town, while boda-bodas generally cover shorter distances and can navigate through traffic more easily.

What to see around Kabale

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Kabale, Rwanda: 1. Lake Bunyonyi - This beautiful lake is just a short drive from Kabale, offering scenic views and opportunities for swimming, fishing, and kayaking.
2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park - This park, located just over the border in Uganda, is home to rare mountain gorillas as well as other wildlife like golden monkeys and buffalo.
3. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park - Also in Uganda, this park is renowned for its populations of mountain gorillas and offers guided treks to see these magnificent creatures up close.
4. Nyungwe Forest National Park - Located in southern Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest is home to impressive biodiversity, including 13 different primate species.
5. Queen Elizabeth National Park - This park in Uganda is a bit farther from Kabale, but offers some amazing wildlife sightings including elephants, lions, and hippos.
6. Musanze Caves - These fascinating limestone caves are located in the nearby town of Musanze and offer guided tours to explore their unique formations.
7. Kigali Genocide Memorial - While not quite a day trip from Kabale, this powerful memorial in the capital city of Kigali is worth visiting if you're interested in learning more about Rwanda's history and culture.
For every travel information about Rwanda you can click here.

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