Fort Portal

Uganda, Africa

Nestled in the heart of Uganda, Fort Portal is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including the stunning Rwenzori Mountains and lush tea plantations. It serves as a gateway to the nearby Kibale National Park, famous for its diverse wildlife and chimpanzee tracking experiences. Visitors can explore the captivating crater lakes, enjoy cultural experiences with local tribes, and savor delicious Ugandan cuisine. Its vibrant community and rich heritage make Fort Portal an appealing destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Other

Airport

Bunia

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Fort Portal

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Kibale National Park

Experience chimpanzee tracking in lush rainforest.

Booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Amabere Caves

Discover stunning waterfalls and unique stalactites.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Lake Nkuruba

Enjoy kayaking and bird watching on the lake.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Crater Lakes

Take in breathtaking views from volcanic craters.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Fort Portal Market

Experience local culture and vibrant market life.

No booking required
6

Est. 6 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Hike in Rwenzori Mountains

Challenge yourself with stunning mountain hikes.

Booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Toro Botanical Gardens

Explore diverse plant species in a serene setting.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go on a Cultural Tour

Immerse in local traditions and heritage experiences.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-18 (#207 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Uganda Shilling

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Ganda

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Matoke or Matooke

VE

Steamed green bananas dish. (National dish)

Luwombo

Meat stew with groundnut sauce.

Posho

VE

Maize porridge, staple food.

Rolex

V

Rolled chapati with eggs and vegetables.

Groundnut Sauce

VE

Peanut sauce, often served with dishes.

Phrases to learn

English

Ganda

Hello

Gyebale ko

(Jeh-bah-leh koh)

Yes/No

Yee / Nedda

(Yay / Ned-dah)

Thank you

Weebale

(Weh-bah-leh)

Excuse me

Nsonyiwa

(N-soh-nee-wah)

How much?

Meka?

(Meh-kah)