Tourist Attractions in Hoima City, Uganda
Hoima Tourist Attractions: Hoima is a beautiful town, and it’s also one of Uganda’s districts in the western region. It is also a location of the King’s palace of the Omukama of Bunyoro. It is located 200 kilometres by road northwest of Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, a 4-hour drive from Kampala.
Historically, Hoima became a district after Bunyoro split into two sections: the southern part, which is Hoima, and the northern part in Masindi. Both towns are connected to Uganda’s popular national parks, renowned as Murchison Falls and Kibale National Park. Besides visiting the parks, there are other attractions to explore while in Hoima. Below is a list of the tourist attractions visitors can encounter or visit in Hoima as follows;
Mparo tombs sit about 4 kilometers along Masindi road. Originally, Mparo was the capital of Bunyoro in 1872 and was the famous residence of King Omukama Kabalenga. Unfortunately, Kabalenga passed on, and his body was buried in Mparo tombs after he died in 1923. The tombs are a historical site compared to the popular royal tombs in Kasubi for the Buganda kingdom. And those interested in visiting this place are given a guide to walk you around as they explain historical information through different rituals, beliefs, history, and practices that are associated with the tombs.
Bunyoro Kingdom –Bunyoro Royal Palace
The Bunyoro Kingdom is one of the great kingdoms in Uganda that still embraces and preserves its culture and traditions, and a tour here will reveal interesting cultural practices and beliefs. You will also visit the King Omukama of Bunyoro, who is the traditional leader. Above all, the Kingdom boasts the most attractive cultural sites to visit. You can also get chances to learn a lot more about the history of the Kingdom’s beliefs and customs.
On your visit to Hoima city, you will have a great opportunity to visit the royal palace where the Omukama of Bunyoro, His Highness Solomon Gafabusa Iguru, resides.
On your visit to the palace, you will be able to see the traditional nine-legged throne that is swathed in leopard skins. You will also watch the bark cloths, spear, and royal headwear, and musical instruments which are displayed around. If you wish to visit the entire palace, it’s advisable to book in advance.
Katasiha Fort and Caves
The Katasiha Fort and Caves is a very rewarding site located 2 kilometers away from the city and is one of the best-preserved historical places in Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom, which was once the biggest fort in the region, constructed by General Colville after King Kabalega abandoned Mparo in 1893. They had to provide security around by digging an 8-meter deep trench surrounding the place.
Kabwoya Game Reserve
This reserve is located 70 kilometers away from Hoima and extends to the shores of Lake Albert and around the Albertine escarpment. Kabwoya Game Reserve is home to a diversity of wildlife living in this region, such species are Uganda kobs, Jackson’s hartebeest, and other wildlife species include Buffaloes, warthogs. The popular activity here is Game viewing, which is more interesting in the morning hours when most of the animals are out grazing.
Anglican Church in Hoima
The Anglican Church is a gathering place for believers, which is located 2 kilometers away from the main town on the Butiaba road. The church has a beautiful setting that attracts visitors in the morning hours of the day.
Visit Lake Albert
Lake Albert is located a short distance away from Hoima city, and you can extend your trip there and enjoy a boat trip, visit fishing villages, and local communities. It is also a good bird-watching spot with a variety of bird species at the Lake’s shores. You could wind up your visit with a taste of the day’s fresh catch – deep fried and tasty!
Adding a visit to Hoima city on your Uganda Tours will enable you to visit Budongo Royal Mile, which is a great birding spot, and Murchison Falls Park for a wildlife safari. Note that you can easily organize a visit there on your own, either using public or private means of transport. We, however, encourage you to always use a tour operator to coordinate your trip. You can book with us at Achieve Global Safaris for a smooth and memorable adventure.
