Things To Do
in Soroti

Soroti is a vibrant city located in eastern Uganda, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. The city serves as a commercial hub for the surrounding agricultural regions, producing crops like sorghum and millet. Soroti is also home to the famous Soroti Lake, where visitors can enjoy recreational activities and observe local wildlife.

With its friendly inhabitants and lively markets, Soroti offers a unique blend of traditional Ugandan life and natural beauty.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Soroti
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to Soroti Lake for a morning walk and bird watching. Enjoy the serene environment and take photos of the sunrise over the water.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the local markets such as the Soroti Central Market, where you can experience the hustle and bustle of local trade. Sample fresh fruits and buy handmade crafts.

evening
:

End your day by dining at a local restaurant, enjoying traditional Ugandan dishes, followed by a stroll through the town center, where you can engage with locals and experience the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Adventure
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Soroti Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region. The museum houses various artifacts and exhibits.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the surrounding countryside, where you can visit local farms and interact with the farmers, learning about their practices and crops.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a visit to a local café for a drink and some live music, or explore the nightlife options in the city.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
🥤Soft drink$1
🚌Local bus fare$0.50
🏨Budget hotel per night$20
🛍️Craft souvenirs$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be less reliable.
  • Language barriers may exist for non-local speakers.
  • "Oli otya?" - How are you?
  • "Webale nyo" - Thank you very much.
  • "Ndi muzungu" - I am a foreigner.
  • "Sula bulungi" - Good night.
  • "Asante" - Thank you.

Places to Visit in Soroti

Visit one of these nice places.

Soroti Lake

A picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for sunrise and sunset photography.

Soroti Central Market

Capture the vibrant life and colors of the local market, bustling with activity.

The Soroti Museum

A heritage site that offers insight into the local culture, perfect for cultural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Soroti

Soroti offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the flavors of Uganda, influenced by local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Soroti Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Luwombo

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

Must-Try!

Matoke

Steamed green bananas often served with a savory sauce.

Posho

A staple food made from maize flour, similar to polenta.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Soroti Central Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, street food, and local snacks.

Street Vendors

Various vendors sell fried snacks, grilled meats, and fresh fruits along the streets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Soroti has a tropical climate with two main seasons: a wet season and a dry season. Temperatures typically range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) throughout the year. The dry season from December to February is characterized by sunny days, while the rainy season from March to May brings heavy rainfall, fostering lush greenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

It is polite to greet locals with a handshake and inquire about their well-being.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas; traditional attire is respected.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to elders by addressing them properly and listening attentively.

Safety Guide

Safety

Soroti is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Keep personal belongings secure and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. It's also wise to drink bottled or boiled water to avoid waterborne diseases.

Tipping in Soroti

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory; rounding up the bill or giving 10% is common in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but mobile money services like M-Pesa are popular for transactions.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to February)

Expect sunny weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

Rainy Season (March to May)

Frequent rains can lead to muddy conditions, but the landscape becomes lush and vibrant.

Cool Season (June to August)

Milder temperatures are pleasant for travel, but occasional rains may occur.

Transitional Season (September to November)

Expect fluctuating weather; it's good to be prepared for both sunny and rainy days.

Nightlife Guide

Soroti at Night

Soroti's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, offering a variety of local bars and cafés where you can enjoy live music and socialize. The atmosphere is friendly, and many venues serve local beer and snacks. While the nightlife is not as bustling as in larger cities, it provides a unique opportunity to experience local culture and meet residents.

Hiking in Soroti

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Elgon National Park

Located about 60 km from Soroti, this park offers stunning trails through diverse ecosystems and scenic views.

Sipi Falls

About 90 km away, Sipi Falls features several hiking trails leading to breathtaking waterfalls amidst lush landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Soroti by plane.

Soroti Airport

Located approximately 7 km from the city center, Soroti Airport serves domestic flights and is the primary airport for the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Soroti is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions and markets are located close to each other. Pedestrian pathways are available, but some areas may lack proper sidewalks. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and stay aware of traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bagisu

The Bagisu people are one of the largest ethnic groups in the region, known for their agriculture and traditional practices.

Basoga

The Basoga community is known for their rich cultural heritage, particularly in music and dance.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is immensely popular in Soroti, with local teams and community matches often held.

Cricket

Cricket is also enjoyed, with local leagues and schools participating in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Soroti is generally light compared to larger cities. Public transportation primarily consists of boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) and matatus (shared taxis), which are widely used. However, be cautious when using boda-bodas, as safety practices can vary.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Soroti.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be tailored for vegetarians, such as stews and vegetable dishes.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options are limited, dishes like matoke and posho are inherently gluten-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Soroti include public hospitals and private clinics. While basic medical services are available, serious medical conditions may require travel to larger cities like Kampala. It's recommended for travelers to have travel insurance and carry necessary medications.

Discover Uganda

Read more in our Uganda 2025 Travel Guide.

Uganda Travel Guide