Things To Do
in Bombo

Bombo is a vibrant town located in the central region of Uganda, approximately 30 kilometers north of the capital city, Kampala. Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, Bombo serves as a key administrative center for the Luwero District. The town is surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, making it an attractive destination for nature lovers.

Additionally, Bombo is home to several historical sites and is a gateway to exploring the diverse landscapes of Uganda.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Bombo Military Barracks, where you can learn about the history of the Ugandan military and its significance in the region.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a traditional Ugandan lunch at a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely stroll through the town market to experience the local culture and shop for handicrafts.

evening
:

As the sun sets, visit a local bar to enjoy some live music and mingle with the locals while savoring a cold Ugandan beer.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

After breakfast, head to the nearby Nakasongola Wetlands for bird watching and a guided nature walk to explore the unique flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Return to Bombo for a traditional lunch and then visit the Bombo Cultural Center to learn about the local Baganda culture and view traditional crafts.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a dinner at a popular local eatery, followed by a night walk through the town to experience its vibrant atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
🍺Local beer$1.50
🚕Taxi ride within town$2
👜Handicrafts from the market$10
🍏Fresh fruit from market$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be unreliable.
  • Some areas may have inadequate healthcare facilities.
  • "Oli otya?" - How are you?
  • "Webale" - Thank you.
  • "Ndi musanyufu" - I am happy.
  • "Nsanyuse okukulaba" - Nice to meet you.
  • "Tugende" - Let's go.

Places to Visit in Bombo

Visit one of these nice places.

Bombo Military Barracks

Capture the historical architecture and the vivid life of military personnel.

Nakasongola Wetlands

A beautiful landscape perfect for nature photography, especially for birdwatchers.

Bombo Market

The vibrant colors and bustling activity provide excellent opportunities for candid street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bombo

Bombo offers a delightful array of local dishes, showcasing the rich flavors of Ugandan cuisine. You can find everything from traditional staples to street food that tantalizes the taste buds.

Bombo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Matoke

Steamed green bananas, often served with groundnut sauce.

Must-Try!

Luwombo

A traditional stew made with meat, vegetables, and groundnut sauce, served with posho.

Rolex

A popular street food item consisting of a chapati rolled with eggs and vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bombo Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies.

Street Vendors

Numerous street food vendors offer a variety of snacks, including fried plantains and samosas.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bombo experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season lasts from December to February, characterized by warm temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F). The wet season, from March to May, brings heavy rainfall, leading to cooler temperatures. The cooler months from June to August see temperatures dropping slightly, providing a pleasant climate for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A handshake is a common greeting; it is polite to greet everyone in a group.

Modesty in Dress

Dress conservatively, especially in rural areas and when visiting cultural sites.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to older individuals by standing when they enter a room or addressing them first.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bombo is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night and be vigilant with personal belongings. It is advisable to stay informed about local conditions and heed any travel advisories.

Tipping in Bombo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip service staff around 10% of the bill in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some establishments accept mobile payments and credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December - February)

Expect warm temperatures and minimal rain, ideal for outdoor activities.

Wet Season (March - May)

Frequent rains can make travel challenging, but the landscape is lush and vibrant.

Cool Season (June - August)

Temperatures are cooler, making it pleasant for exploration, though occasional rains may occur.

Transitional Season (September - November)

A mix of dry and wet conditions; perfect for photography as the scenery changes.

Nightlife Guide

Bombo at Night

Bombo's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with various local bars and restaurants offering live music, especially on weekends. You can find a mix of traditional music and contemporary hits, creating an enjoyable atmosphere for socializing. While the nightlife is not as bustling as in larger cities, the warmth of the local community makes for a memorable experience.

Hiking in Bombo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ngoma Hill Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and is suitable for all skill levels.

Bombo Hills

This trail provides a more challenging hike with rewarding views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Bombo by plane.

Entebbe International Airport (EBB)

Located approximately 60 km from Bombo, it serves as Uganda's main international airport, providing connections to various global destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bombo is relatively walkable, with most amenities and attractions located within a short distance from each other. The town has pedestrian paths, although some areas may be uneven. Walking is a great way to explore local shops, markets, and cultural sites.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Baganda

The Baganda are the predominant ethnic group in the region, known for their rich cultural traditions and history.

Bantu Groups

Other Bantu-speaking groups also inhabit the area, contributing to the cultural diversity of Bombo.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Bombo, with community teams and local matches drawing large crowds.

Netball

Netball is also widely played, particularly among women and girls, with local competitions held regularly.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bombo is generally light, with most roads being manageable. Public transportation mainly consists of matatus (shared taxis) and boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis), which are convenient for getting around. However, be cautious and ensure safety when using these modes of transport.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bombo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, with options like beans, vegetables, and matoke.

Gluten-Free

While many dishes are gluten-free, confirm that sauces and side dishes do not contain wheat.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Bombo are limited, with a few local clinics and hospitals available. For serious medical issues, it is recommended to travel to Kampala, where larger hospitals offer a wider range of services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers healthcare needs.

Discover Uganda

Read more in our Uganda 2025 Travel Guide.

Uganda Travel Guide