The Mystical Challenge to Rwagimba Hot Springs in Uganda

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Rwagimba hot springs are found within the Albertine rift in the western part of Uganda, the magnificent springs are breathtaking with very interesting legend stories attached to them. They are found in Bunyangabu district in the Tooro Kingdom of Kitara Region.

The hot springs whose water boil beyond 100 degrees in some part are adjacent to River Rwimi whose water runs from Rwenzori mountains as cold below -10 degrees. At a point where the hot springs water meets the river water forms a kind of swimming pool with relatively hot water where visitors spend several hours lying in water wondering at the natural make of the place.

The natives of the place believe that the springs cure a lot of infections when they bath from the springs, people who don’t prefer going to the spas in towns just get in this natural waters and get a more satisfying taste than even in a spa.

Taking a relaxation bath in Rwagimba/Rwajimba Hot Springs in Tooro Western Uganda

Rwagimba hot springs are famous to the people of Tooro kingdom because its believed that their Kings (Omukama) used to frequent the springs for relaxation and healing. The king’s subjects would lift him up on their shoulders and take him to the springs and the springs were only used by the king and some of the kingdom chiefs with permission.

While visiting the springs, tourists can hike on the spectacular rolling hills for striking views and cool enjoyment. Most locals flood the springs even on Sunday mornings when others are going to church others are on the move to springs looking for healing powers.

Apart from Visiting the Rwagimba hot springs, Uganda is endowed with other hot springs that tourists can visit such as; Kitagata hot springs, Buranga hot springs, Amoropii hot springs, Nyansimbi hot springs, Ssempaya hot springs, Ihimba hot springs, Kibiro Hot springs among others.

Rwagimba hot springs is not only believed to heal the natives but also their livestock. Most of the Tooro people bring their sick cattle to be healed in the splendid springs. Others believe that the springs have gods attached to their healing hence come here to worship.

Rwagimba hot springs can be accessed from Kampala to Fort Portal or from Kampala to Kasese. Its approximately 25 kilometers from Fort Portal-Kasese rod and then drive to Kinyampanika primary school which is about 7 kilometers in Katebwa Sub county where you will trek the hills.

Apart from the enchanting hot springs that can be found in Uganda, the country is gifted with various bird species some of which are endemic to Uganda, there are also various national parks for example Queen Elizabeth National Park can be combined with an itinerary to Rwagimba hot springs. The park offers tourists with a thrilling wilderness safari and its tree climbing lions you can not find anywhere except Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania.

Tourists visiting the Rwagimba hot springs can come along with their parked food and enjoy it besides the springs. For those who would love to sleep there, there is a camping ground but you come along with your own camping equipment. But there are also various accommodations along Fort Portal to Kasese area.

Rwagimba hot springs are found within the Albertine rift in the western part of Uganda, the magnificent springs are breathtaking with very interesting legend stories attached to them. They are found in Bunyangabu district in the Tooro Kingdom of Kitara Region.

The hot springs whose water boil beyond 100 degrees in some part are adjacent to River Rwimi whose water runs from Rwenzori mountains as cold below -10 degrees. At a point where the hot springs water meets the river water forms a kind of swimming pool with relatively hot water where visitors spend several hours lying in water wondering at the natural make of the place.

The natives of the place believe that the springs cure a lot of infections when they bath from the springs, people who don’t prefer going to the spas in towns just get in this natural waters and get a more satisfying taste than even in a spa.

The curative water of Rwagimba/Rwajimba Hot Springs in Tooro Western Uganda

Rwagimba hot springs are famous to the people of Tooro kingdom because its believed that their Kings (Omukama) used to frequent the springs for relaxation and healing. The king’s subjects would lift him up on their shoulders and take him to the springs and the springs were only used by the king and some of the kingdom chiefs with permission.

While visiting the springs, tourists can hike on the spectacular rolling hills for striking views and cool enjoyment. Most locals flood the springs even on Sunday mornings when others are going to church others are on the move to springs looking for healing powers.

Rwagimba hot springs is not only believed to heal the natives but also their livestock. Most of the Tooro people bring their sick cattle to be healed in the splendid springs. Others believe that the springs have gods attached to their healing hence come here to worship.

Many people flock to Rwagimba/Rwajimba Hot Springs in Tooro Western Uganda

Rwagimba hot springs can be accessed from Kampala to Fort Portal or from Kampala to Kasese. Its approximately 25 kilometers from Fort Portal-Kasese rod and then drive to Kinyampanika primary school which is about 7 kilometers in Katebwa Sub county where you will trek the hills.

Apart from the enchanting hot springs that can be found in Uganda, the country is gifted with various bird species some of which are endemic to Uganda, there are also various national parks for example Queen Elizabeth National Park can be combined with an itinerary to Rwagimba hot springs. The park offers tourists with a thrilling wilderness safari and its tree climbing lions you can not find anywhere except Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania.

Tourists visiting the Rwagimba hot springs can come along with their parked food and enjoy it besides the springs. For those who would love to sleep there, there is a camping ground but you come along with your own camping equipment. But there are also various accommodations along Fort Portal to Kasese area.

Activities around Rwagimba Hot Springs

The Hot springs in Uganda have contributed to Uganda being called the Pearl of Africa. In fact, there are plenty of them.

These hot springs complement a chain of other tourist attractions in Uganda such as roaring rivers, lakes, mountains, wildlife, and the country’s rich culture.

The hot springs in Uganda make for a great picturesque location if you want to keep memories of your safari trip to Uganda. 

The areas around the water springs also offer an opportunity to participate in other activities such as baths, rock climbing, hiking, or nature walks on your trip to the falls.

Exploring these hot springs will give you a proper insight into what Uganda is all about especially when it comes to culture and nature.

Rwagimba hot spring is a great place for relaxation over the weekend or during a holiday break. Most of them are close to bigger towns and cities and offers a cool and serene environment. Moreover, Hot springs tourism is cheap compared to Uganda’s other destinations. The other activities around Uganda’s waterfalls are: –

Bathing: Like most hot springs Rwagimba forms good bathing points with warm flowing water. If you are a water lover and want to play with nature, then no one will stop you.  I mean who can discourage you from plunging into these waters after completing more difficult tusks like hiking.

Photography: If you are looking for a place to take great photos, then the hot springs could just be the place you are looking for. Apart from the hot springs, the beautiful green environment, rocks and trees look good on the camera. You could take photos while playing games within places around the springs or during the nature walks.

Hiking and Climbing Rocks: This involves hikes on places above the hot springs where you will be able to see the water steam raising above to the clouds. The hikes may be challenging for those who are not fit but the final reward is great views of the hot springs and surrounding scenery. You may even spot animals and other creatures along the way.

Birdwatching: The areas surrounding most hot springs are covered by forests which is a sanctuary to many bird species. Birders will find these places very amazing.

Nature Walks: This is arguably the most attractive activity after viewing the beautiful hot springs. The surrounding forests are the first place to go to. The main trees types are always bamboo, Muvule, Musizi, Mahogany, fig, Eucalyptus and Ebony trees. Some areas also have a lot of bushes and shrubs.  With the help of a local Guide, you will also spot more birds, butterflies and small primates. Some walks can be prolonged to include visits to local farms and plantations in the surrounding areas.

Village Walks: There are several villages in the vicinity of each hot springs. Intentional tourists who come to these sights often wish to have close encounters with the local villagers to experience life in an African home. Students from different schools in Uganda also choose these places as a perfect ground for field work and research.

Cultural Experience: Like most hot springs in Uganda have a cultural connection based on the cultures around each hot springs. Before Christianity and other forms of religion became widespread in Uganda, the local people had their traditional religions. Those who are interested in learning more about the ancient cultural practices of the people of Uganda can visit the shrines to learn about their ancient gods and spiritual beings.

Contact us to plan your Hot Springs safari to Uganda simply by a call or whatsaap at +256392156562 or send an email to kitararcc@gmail.com or kitara.ktcnet@gmail.com

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About the author

We are the people of Kitara Foundation for Regional Tourism, we are involved in tourism and hospitality programing in Uganda and neighboring countries. In this site we share our adventures, experiences and our work around the region and give you lessons about travel, tourism and hospitality management, activities you can get involved in. You can visit our gallery, watch videos or join our trekking adventures to the best attractions that mainstream tourism does not bring out- “the hidden Uganda”. We offer training and Support to all participants and entrepreneurs in Tourism and Hospitality. We are involved in Nature Conservation and Culture Preservation through Community empowerement and Capacity Building.