Updated
Kabale, at about 1,800 m in the terraced Kigezi highlands, is the main town on the road to Bwindi’s southern sectors and Lake Bunyonyi. It is a useful place to break the journey, buy supplies and use banks, and it has a few attractions of its own: walks through terraced hills, a lively market, the colonial-era White Horse Inn and easy access to Lake Bunyonyi a short drive away.
In and around town
Kabale’s central market is busy and colourful, especially on market days, with produce from the surrounding farms. Short walks or bike rides into the hills show the region’s famous terraces, built to farm the steep slopes. The town has banks, ATMs, supermarkets and fuel stations, the last reliable ones before the parks.
Day trips
Lake Bunyonyi is about 8 km away, with canoe trips, island visits and birding. The southern sectors of Bwindi, Rushaga and Nkuringo, are about two hours away, and Ruhija is a similar distance. Kisoro and Mgahinga are further west.
Where to stay
Kabale has budget and mid-range hotels and restaurants, but most visitors prefer to stay at Lake Bunyonyi. The gorilla permit costs US$800, or US$600 in April, May and November. See our guides to Lake Bunyonyi, the road from Kabale to Bwindi, Kampala to Kabale and restaurants in Kabale.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, for supplies, banks and as a base for Lake Bunyonyi.
About two hours to the southern sectors or Ruhija.
About 8 km.
Its terraced hills and as the gateway to Bwindi and Bunyonyi.
