Things To Do
in Arua
Arua is a vibrant town in northwestern Uganda, perched near the borders with the DRC and South Sudan and serving as the gateway to the West Nile region. It combines rolling hills, river valleys, and green countryside with a lively market culture and friendly, welcoming people. The area around Arua includes forest reserves, wetlands, and opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and riverfront vistas.
From Arua Hill viewpoints to the nearby Zoka Forest Reserve, the town offers a relaxed pace and a rich blend of cultures, including Lugbara and other West Nile communities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Arua Airport and be greeted by your local guide who will assist you with your luggage. Check into your accommodation and freshen up before exploring the local area. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café to soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
After lunch, take a guided tour of Arua town, including a visit to the bustling markets filled with local handicrafts and fresh produce. Engage with the friendly locals and discover the rich culture and history of the area. Visit the Arua Hill where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Dine at a local restaurant that offers traditional Ugandan cuisine, allowing you to experience the flavors of the region. Share stories and laughter with fellow travelers while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere. Cap off your evening with a walk around the town to take in the beauty of the night.
Embark on an early morning safari in Murchison Falls National Park, where you may spot elephants, giraffes, and lions. Enjoy the stunning landscapes as the sun rises, illuminating the park in golden light. Your guide will provide insights into the diverse wildlife and ecosystem.
After a morning of adventure, have a picnic lunch by the Nile River, surrounded by nature's beauty. Take a boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls, where you can witness the powerful waters and spot hippos and crocodiles basking in the sun. Relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this natural wonder.
Return to your accommodation for a delicious dinner and unwind by the campfire under a starlit sky. Share experiences from the day's safari with your group, fostering camaraderie. Reflect on the day’s adventures and anticipate what the next day will bring.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5 L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🚕Short taxi or boda ride within town | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-2 |
| 🛏️1 night in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly people and a welcoming, relaxed pace
- Access to Zoka Forest Reserve and diverse West Nile culture
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Healthcare and transport can be basic outside the main towns
- "Webale" - Thank you
- "Gyebale ko" - Hello (Luganda) / Greetings
- "Oli otya?" - How are you? (singular)
- "Wasuze otya?" - Good morning
- "Nsonyiwa" - Sorry / Excuse me
Places to Visit in Arua
Visit one of these nice places.
A vantage point above the town offering sweeping views of Arua’s grid, surrounding plains, and river valleys.
A lush forest on the edge of town ideal for bird photography, lush canopies, and nature shots.
Shoreline scenes, fishing boats, and sunset silhouettes along the Nile basin near Arua.
Food in Arua
Arua Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed plantains served with a rich groundnut sauce, a staple in many households.
Must-Try!
Grilled or fried freshwater fish served with matooke or cassava and a tomato-onion sauce.
A savory peanut-based sauce cooked with greens and maize or cassava.
Warm, comforting porridge made from millet flour, often eaten for breakfast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub where you can taste fresh produce, roasted maize, groundnuts, and fried snacks.
Street-food vendors offering grilled meats, roasted cassava, and fresh fruit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a smile and a handshake; ask before taking photos of individuals; dress modestly, especially in religious sites and village settings.
Seek permission before photographing people, avoid intrusive actions, and show courtesy in markets and public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Arua
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service; 5-10% in restaurants if no service charge is included. Guides and drivers often appreciate small tips.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile money (MTN Mobile Money, Airtel Money) is very common for day-to-day payments. Credit and debit cards are less commonly accepted outside larger venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically clearer skies and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and urban sightseeing; temperatures are warm to hot, with cooler evenings on higher ground.
Rain showers can be heavy at times; trails may be slippery, but landscapes are lush and photography can be dramatic; carry rain gear.
Arua at Night
Hiking in Arua
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Guided forest walks with opportunities to photograph birds and wildlife.
Moderate ascent offering city views and sunset photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Arua by plane.
Small domestic airport serving Arua and surrounding West Nile communities; flights to Entebbe and other regional hubs.
Uganda’s main international gateway with connections to Africa, Europe, and beyond.
Regional airport near Gulu offering domestic connections and broader access to Northern Uganda.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the major ethnic groups in West Nile; language and culture are central to much local life.
Another significant community in the region with distinct traditions and cuisine.
A Luo-speaking group found in the broader West Nile area.
A Luo-based community contributing to the region’s cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in town, with local games and informal matches common in the evenings.
Played in schools and community centers; local leagues occasionally organize events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arua.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Emphasize vegetarian dishes like millet porridge, greens with peanut sauce, plantains, and beans; communicate clearly with kitchen staff about any meat or fish ingredients.