Ankole Culture & History
Experience the rich heritage of the Banyankole people, renowned for their prized long-horned cattle and ancient traditions.
Igongo Cultural Centre
Heritage of the Banyankole
Location: Mbarara, approx. 256 km SW of Kampala
Showcases the heritage of the Banyankole (Ankole) people, known for their prized long-horned cattle.
Interactive Experiences:
- Traditional cattle milking
- Making ghee (clarified butter)
- Brewing Tonto (traditional banana beer)
Biharwe Eclipse Monument
First Recorded Eclipse in Uganda
Location: Biharwe Hill, at Igongo Cultural Centre
Commemorates the first recorded total solar eclipse in Uganda on April 17, 1520 AD. The solar event terrified King Olimi of Bunyoro, who abandoned his war booty, which was seized by Nkore's King Ntare and named "from heaven." This historic event marked a turning point in the region's dynastic conflicts.
Bachwezi Archaeological Sites
Explore the enigmatic ruins of the Bachwezi Empire, one of Uganda's most fascinating archaeological mysteries.
Bigo Bya Mugyenyi
Uganda's Largest Ancient Site
Location: Sembabule District, approx. 212 km from Kampala
Uganda's largest ancient site, featuring extensive earthworks dating from approximately AD 1300 to 1500.
It indicates a well-organized urban center and is believed to have served as the capital of the enigmatic Bachwezi Empire, alongside the Ntusi site.
Ntusi Site
Most Valuable Archaeological Site
Location: Sembabule District, approx. 157 km West of Kampala (air)
A historical site dating from the 10th to 15th century AD, comprising over 50 smaller sites, including two prominent mounds.
"Bathroom" in Runyankole, named after Chwezi King Wamala
Glass and cowrie-shell beads indicate contact with the Indian Ocean
Kigezi: The Switzerland of Africa
Known for its terraced mountain slopes and deep valleys. The Abakiga people, known for their hardworking nature and vigorous Ekizino dance, primarily inhabit this area.
Lake Bunyonyi
Africa's Most Beautiful Lake
Location: Approx. 347 km SW of Kampala (air)
Regarded as Africa's most beautiful lake, it is one of the continent's deepest, featuring 29 islands.
Free from bilharzia, hippos, and crocodiles
Akampene Island
The Island of Punishment
A famous island on Lake Bunyonyi where, traditionally, Bakiga girls who became pregnant out of wedlock were abandoned to starve as a social deterrent. This dark chapter in local history serves as a reminder of changing cultural values.
Kisiizi Falls
Beautiful Natural Site
Location: Rukungiri District, approx. 326 km SW of Kampala (air)
A beautiful natural site with a somber history, where Bakiga girls pregnant out of wedlock were executed by being pushed over the cliff. Today, it stands as a stunning waterfall and historical landmark.
Experience Abakiga Culture
The Abakiga people are renowned for their hardworking nature and the vigorous Ekizino dance. Visit traditional homesteads, witness terraced farming techniques passed down through generations, and experience the warmth of Kigezi hospitality.
Bunyoro & Tooro Kingdoms: Dynastic History
Discover the powerful kingdoms that shaped Western Uganda's history through centuries of royal dynasties and cultural traditions.
Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom
Successor to the Ancient Kitara Empire
The successor to the ancient Kitara Empire (of the Bachwezi Dynasty). It was established by the Ababiito clan (Luo people) in the 16th century, dominating through control of salt mines and superior iron smiths.
Omukama Chwa II Kabalega, who resisted the British for five years, is now declared a National Hero of Uganda.
Tooro Kingdom
Breakaway Kingdom
Established in 1822 when Kaboyo Olimi I broke away from Bunyoro. The kingdom maintains its distinct identity and royal traditions to this day.
Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV was enthroned at the age of three in 1995, making him one of the world's youngest monarchs.
Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru Caves
The Breasts of Nyinamwiru
Location: Approx. 8 km from Fort Portal
A geological site associated with the Bachwezi. The stalactites, which constantly drip water, are said to be the breasts of Princess Nyinamwiru.
Legend: Princess Nyinamwiru was mutilated by her father, King Bukuku, for refusing an arranged marriage. The dripping stalactites are believed to represent her breasts, creating a powerful folklore site.