Mbarara, with its population of some 97,500 (2024), is both the largest conurbation in south-west Uganda and the administrative and commercial centre of the district named after it which came into being in 2005. On 7th August 2015 it was granted city status, and that status went live on 1 July 2020 having been delayed by elections.
Built on an elevated basin that forms part of the African Rift Valley and nestled amongst hills and shallow valleys,at an average elevation at about 1,147 metres (3,763 ft) above sea level, Mbabara was almost destroyed in the internal Ugandan conflicts of 1972, 1979 and again in 1985 before emerging into the vibrant and bustling city it is today complete with good shopping, restaurants, hotels, night clubs and bars as well as a museum and mearby national park.
Named after a tall grass locally known as Emburara (Hyperemia ruffa), Mbarara is often seen as a gateway to the Great Lakes Region, some 180 miles south-west of Kampala, modern Mbarara has a cosmopolitan flavour with a population of both locals as well as Rwandans, Indians, Asians, Chinese and Somalis.
It has a number of tourist attractions (see below) as well as nationally respected institutions of learning such as Ntare School where a number of African presidents were educated, Mbarara High School, Mbarara University of Science and Technology and Bishop Stuart University.
Mbarara is good for a short stay particularly if you have been travelling and want some decent food and accommodation but you will probably run out of things to do after three or so days once you have recharged your batteries and you will be ready to move on as you further explore Western Uganda.
Oh, and make sure you stock up at the local supermarkets if you are heading south as it's the last decent place to pick up food in supermarkets before you reach Rwanda! Did we mention that Mbarara is very hot and busy? No? Okay, Mbabara is VERY hot and busy so keep an eye out for the boda motorcyclists who are everyone. Including the pavements. If you know of other tourist attractions in Mbarara to add to this online guide, get in touch and let us know using our contact form.
