Uganda as a nation has got a very strong cultural heritage with several regions with Kingdoms that describe different tribes and their culture and these include Buganda, Toro, Bunyoro, Busoga and Rwenzururu kingdoms. Ugandans are remarkably hospitable people with a diversity of rich cultures and lifestyles each one with its traditional dance.

Cultural dances and their corresponding tribes

These cultural dances are locally described as Runyege and Entogoro dances by Batoro, Batuku and Banyoro of Western Uganda, Kitaguriro by Banyankore people, Bwora and Otole dances by Acholi people of Northern Uganda, Mwanga cultural dance performed by Bagisu people usually during their circumcision (Imbalu) ceremonies, Agwal cultural dance by the Alur people of West Nile, Muwogola and Nankasa dances by Baganda of central Uganda, Irongo and Nalufuka dances by Basoga people, Akembe dance by Iteso people of Eastern Uganda,  Gaza dance by Lugbara people of West Nile region, Kikebe dance by Bakonzo people in western Uganda mainly on the slopes of mount Rwenzori and Endonga cultural dance of Karamojong the Agro pastoral herders mainly found in the Northeastern region of Uganda.

Besides cultural dances, Uganda’s culture and traditions are expressed through local Arts and crafts made from local materials such as papyrus reeds, clay and wood. These art and crafts include weaved baskets, wood carvings, and beaded jewellery. All these and many more can be found at all points of the country for example in craft/gift shops, hotels/lodges, urban galleries and national Threats. Always consider taking on a cultural tour while on a safari to Uganda and exploring the beautiful culture of Ugandans in the known destinations.  Saso Uganda Safaris takes you on a cultural tour to cultural sites and more Eco-tourism in Uganda and Rwanda.

Some of the cultural sites in Uganda —

Kasubi Royal Tombs

This is a very important cultural site in the Buganda Kingdom located 5km from the capital city Kampala on Kasubi hill. This cultural site is a UNESCO heritage place and is known in history as the burial ground of four Baganda Kings locally referred to as” Kabaka“. Much Respect and Royalty are given to this site as it holds great historical treasures in the Baganda kingdom and for several centuries the Ganda rituals have been performed in this same place. This is a worthwhile place to visit while on a tour of Uganda.

Namugogo Martyrs shrine

This is a vital shrine in history, especially for Christians. It is known as a laying ground for over twenty-two (22) catholic Christian converts and twenty-three (23) of Anglican Christians who were brutally executed following the orders of Kabaka Mwanga ii in 1886. A lot of pilgrims are made to this place yearly by both Roman Catholic Christian churches and Anglican churches both within the country and across the Global a public holiday that is celebrated every 3rd June of the year to remember and pray for fellow Christians who gave out their lives for Christ’s case.

Sezibwa Falls

These fascinating spiritual falls hold a unique significance to the Baganda people. These falls are found in the Mukono district a few kilometres from Kampala. These falls have interesting spiritual features that Baganda people define and believe as a tradition.

Besides being a site they also create amazing sightings of various bird species, spectacular waterfalls as well as Rock climbing. Include Sezibwa falls on your next trip/tour to Uganda and have a memorable experience with the existing attractions to explore. These are major cultural sites that you wouldn’t exclude on your trip while in Uganda, there are many more sites across the country to mention but a few.

Contact us for any information regarding Uganda Culture and Traditions.