Mbarara is a bustling town in Uganda with many attractions that set it apart from other areas. Its main draw is Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Nile Breweries, Mbarara Century bottling company, a steel plant, and Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital. It's also home to renowned schools like Ntare School, Mbarara High School, and Mayhill High School.

Here are some of the key attractions in and around Mbarara:

Cultural Sites: Explore Ankole's cultural heritage at sites like Nkokonjeru tombs, the burial place of former kings, and the administration block at Kamukuzi.

Gorilla Trekking: While not in Mbarara itself, nearby Bwindi Forest and Mgahinga National Park are home to half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas. These parks are easily accessible from Mbarara, making gorilla trekking a must-do activity.

Lake Mburo National Park: This park, now mainly in Kiruhura district, offers exciting activities such as game drives to spot buffaloes, zebras, leopards, and more. You can also enjoy bird watching, sport fishing, and launch cruises.

Igongo Cultural Centre: Located along the Kampala-Mbarara highway, this museum showcases the rich history and culture of southwestern and western Uganda. It offers insights into the local culture, wildlife, and serves delicious dishes with accommodation facilities.

Ankole Long Horned Cattle: Visit farms along the Kampala-Mbarara road to see these iconic cattle, a symbol of wealth in Uganda.

Kinyankole Culture: Experience the vibrant culture of the Banyankole people, known for their cattle-keeping tradition, distinct dress code, and traditional music and dance.

Water Bodies: Mbarara is blessed with water bodies like Lake Nakivale, River Ruizi, and Lake Kachera, offering opportunities for picnics, canoeing, fishing, and wildlife spotting.

Food: Indulge in local delicacies like Bongo (a type of milk), local yogurt, matooke, kalo, and more.