Updated
Kabale is the main town of the Kigezi highlands in south-west Uganda, about 400 km and 7–8 hours by road from Kampala and close to the Rwanda border at Katuna. Set at around 1,800–2,000 metres among steeply terraced hills, it is cool and green, and it is the gateway to Lake Bunyonyi, about 30 minutes away, and to the southern and eastern sectors of Bwindi. It has banks, fuel, a market and simple hotels, making it a practical last stop before gorilla country.
What Kabale offers
The town is busy and practical rather than a sight in itself. Stock up on cash, fuel, snacks and anything you forgot, and walk through the market to see Kigezi produce such as sorghum, Irish potatoes and beans. Most visitors stay at Lake Bunyonyi rather than in town, as the lake lodges are more scenic. The terraced landscape around Kabale, farmed by the Bakiga, is one of the most photographed in Uganda. See our guide to Bakiga culture.
Getting to the gorillas from Kabale
From Kabale, the Rushaga sector of Bwindi is about 2 hours, Nkuringo about 2.5–3 hours via Kisoro, and Ruhija about 2 hours on a winding mountain road. Buhoma in the north is further, about 3–4 hours. Kisoro and Mgahinga are about 1.5–2 hours to the west on a good tarmac road. See our guide to Bwindi’s sectors.
Lake Bunyonyi and the border
Lake Bunyonyi, with its many islands, canoe trips and lodges, is the main reason travellers linger near Kabale. The Katuna border crossing to Rwanda is about 30 minutes south, and Kigali is around 2–3 hours beyond it, making Kabale a common route for trips that combine both countries. The gorilla permit costs US$800, or US$600 in April, May and November. See our guides to Lake Bunyonyi and the Kigali to Bwindi tour.
Frequently asked questions
About 400 km, or 7–8 hours by road.
About 30 minutes by road.
Rushaga and Ruhija, both about 2 hours away.
Yes, the Katuna border is about 30 minutes away.
