Best Things to Do in Kabale: Explore Uganda’s Hidden Gem with a Local Guide

Nestled in the southwestern highlands of Uganda, Kabale is a cool, lush paradise known for its breathtaking landscapes, cultural richness, and proximity to major attractions like Lake Bunyonyi and the Virunga Volcanoes. Whether you’re a backpacker, birdwatcher, solo adventurer, or culture enthusiast, this scenic town has a wide range of activities that promise an unforgettable experience.

In this detailed guide, Hillary — a professional local guide and wildlife photographer — shares the best things to do in Kabale for an authentic and immersive journey. From canoeing on Lake Bunyonyi to exploring ancient caves and traditional markets, this article gives you the ultimate Kabale travel plan.

📲 For personalized tours and local expertise, contact Hillary directly via WhatsApp +256726436969 or email hillary@hillaryugandatrips.com.

1. Discover Lake Bunyonyi – The Jewel of Kabale

Glide Across Africa’s Second Deepest Lake

Lake Bunyonyi is undoubtedly the top thing to do in Kabale. Known for its 29 misty islands, serene waters, and birdlife, the lake is perfect for boat rides, nature photography, and peaceful retreats. Join Hillary for a sunrise or sunset canoe tour, where you’ll glide across the glassy water and learn about the local legends surrounding each island — including Punishment Island, Bushara, and Bwama.

Birdwatching and Island Hopping Adventures

If you’re into birdwatching, Lake Bunyonyi is a haven for over 200 species including grey-crowned cranes, herons, and kingfishers. Hillary offers tailored birdwatching photography safaris that take you to secluded spots only locals know. You can even camp on the islands or enjoy locally cooked meals with a panoramic view.

Relax at Lakeside Eco-Lodges

Many eco-lodges dot the lake’s edges, offering beautiful views and easy access to the water. Hillary Uganda Trips partners with lakeside stays like Byoona Amagara and Lake Bunyonyi Rock Resort, ensuring a comfortable and responsible travel experience.

Explore more on my blog: Budget Travel Guide to Lake Bunyonyi

2. Hike the Hills of Kabale for Panoramic Views

Kabale’s Rolling Terraces and Highland Trails

Kabale is nicknamed the “Switzerland of Africa” thanks to its lush terraced hills and cool climate. Guided hikes with Hillary take you through Buhoma highlands, Kachwekano ridge, and Rugarama hills, offering spectacular panoramic views of the region, including Lake Bunyonyi and Rwanda’s volcanoes in the distance.

Village Walks and Cultural Interaction

While hiking, you’ll pass through local homesteads, meet the Bakiga people, and learn about their traditions, farming techniques, and community life. Hillary’s cultural treks include storytelling sessions, dance demonstrations, and visits to traditional earth houses.

Ideal for Photography and Nature Lovers

These scenic hikes are perfect for travel photographers. With Hillary’s expertise in wildlife and landscape photography, you’ll get guidance on the best angles and times for capturing that perfect shot.

3. Visit the Kabale Main Market

A Burst of Color, Culture, and Local Flavor

No visit to Kabale is complete without a trip to the Kabale Main Market, where you’ll experience the hustle and bustle of local life. Walk among friendly vendors selling bananas, avocados, millet flour, crafts, and colorful kitenge fabrics. It’s the best place to try traditional Ugandan street food, like rolex (a rolled chapati with eggs and vegetables), roasted maize, or grilled meat skewers.

Handicrafts and Cultural Souvenirs

Support local artisans by purchasing handmade jewellery, wood carvings, woven baskets, and leather sandals. Hillary will help you interact with vendors and understand the meaning behind these items — ensuring you take home more than just souvenirs, but stories and connection.

Practice Responsible Tourism

By shopping locally with Hillary, your visit supports small businesses and sustainable tourism in Kabale. He’ll also guide you to fair trade cooperatives and women-led groups for ethical purchasing.

4. Explore the Batwa Cultural Experience

Learn From Uganda’s Indigenous Forest People

Just outside Kabale, Hillary offers guided trips to Batwa communities — the indigenous forest-dwelling people who once lived in the Bwindi and Echuya Forests. This deeply immersive tour includes traditional music, dance, fire-making, and storytelling that reflects their deep connection to the forest.

A Cultural Journey with Impact

This is more than a cultural show — it’s a chance to support Batwa families, learn about the injustices they’ve faced, and be part of their cultural preservation. Hillary works directly with these communities to offer fair compensation and respectful experiences.

Combine with Nature Walks and Birding

You can easily combine the Batwa Experience with birding in Echuya Forest or a scenic drive along the Kabale-Kisoro road, which is one of Uganda’s most beautiful routes.

More on this: The Batwa Experience at Lake Bunyonyi

5. Take a Day Trip to Kisoro via the Kabale-Kisoro Highway

One of Uganda’s Most Scenic Drives

The road from Kabale to Kisoro winds through the Kigezi Highlands, with breathtaking views of Lake Bunyonyi, terraced farms, and the majestic Virunga Volcanoes. Hillary offers private day tours with multiple stops for photography, village visits, and even surprise viewpoints that most tourists miss.

Connect to Gorilla Trekking Adventures

Kisoro is the gateway to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, making Kabale a convenient stopover for gorilla trekking safaris. Hillary can arrange 3-day budget gorilla tours that start or end in Kabale, with seamless transport and authentic local guidance.

👉 Read more: How to Get to Kisoro

6. Visit the Kabale Museum and Local Churches

Discover Kabale’s Colonial and Religious History

Located near the town center, Kabale District Museum offers a small but insightful collection of Bakiga cultural items, colonial photos, and ancient tools. For history lovers, this stop helps you understand the transformation of the region from ancient kingdoms to modern settlements.

Nearby, visit All Saints Cathedral and other historic churches that showcase colonial architecture and vibrant community worship — especially on Sundays.

Learn with a Local Guide

With Hillary by your side, these visits come alive with storytelling and context that’s often missing from guidebooks or signs. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Kabale’s complex heritage.

7. Attend a Bakiga Traditional Dance Performance

Celebrate Kabale’s Cultural Vibrancy

If you’re in town on weekends or during a festival, don’t miss a Bakiga dance performance. This high-energy dance involves drumming, stamping, and call-and-response singing. Hillary can organize community-based performances where you’re welcome to join in, learn the moves, and enjoy a traditional meal afterward.

A Real Connection With Kabale’s People

Unlike commercial shows, Hillary’s performances are hosted by real villagers and youth groups. You’ll engage with dancers, learn the meanings of the songs, and even wear traditional attire if you’d like.

8. Taste Local Cuisine at Hillary’s Recommended Eateries

Eat Like a Local in Kabale Town

From roadside chapati stalls to hidden local joints, Hillary knows the best spots to eat in Kabale. Sample dishes like:

Eshabwe (a white sauce made from ghee)
Kalo (millet bread)
Boiled matoke with peanut sauce
Roast goat and Ugandan waragi (banana gin)

For travelers interested in food culture, Hillary also offers cooking experiences with local families.

Plan Your Kabale Adventure With Hillary

Whether you’re seeking peaceful nature escapes, cultural immersion, or adventure photography, Kabale offers something unique. And with Hillary as your guide — a seasoned local expert and wildlife photographer, your trip becomes more than a holiday. It becomes a story worth telling.

📲 Start planning today!
WhatsApp: +256726436969
Email: hillary@hillaryugandatrips.com

Best Things to Do in Kabale with a Local Guide