KABAKA'S TRAIL

The Kabaka’s trail is also popular as the heritage trail and it is what gives visitors on cultural safari in Uganda insight into the unique culture of the Buganda Kingdom. Buganda Kingdom features as the oldest kingdom in Uganda and Kabaka is the title given to the King. The history of Buganda Kingdom can be traced back to the 13^th century when it was founded. Exploring the Kabaka’s trail or heritage trail on Uganda cultural tour involves an in-depth exploration of about the 6 amazing heritage sites Buganda Kingdom boasts of. The heritage trail covers about 50kms starting from Kampala and it also lets you explore the unique traditions, artifacts, dances, music performance, history, enjoy the stories told by the elders, discover the spiritual healing and have a taste of Buganda’s traditional dishes.

Below are some of the heritage sites to explore on Kabaka’s trail

Kasubi tombs 

Kasubi tombs are set on Kasubi Hill, approximately 5kms from Kampala capital city center. It is a burial site where the 4 of the Buganda Kings were buried; Kabaka Mutesa 1, Kabaka Mwanga II who also passed on while in exile on the Seychelles Islands and Kabaka Sir Edward Mutesa II who passed on in exile in London. A visit to this cultural site is possible on Kampala city tour. 

Katareke Prison Ditch

This prison ditch is located in Buddo along Masaka road just after Nsangi by-pass. It is endowed with a unique history of Buganda and that is why it should be a must-visit on Uganda cultural safari. The site is where King Kalema made a ditch for his siblings due to fear that he would be overthrown. 

Naggalabi-Buddo Coronation Site

This heritage site sits on Naggalabi-Buddo Hill, about half an hour drive from Kampala city center. It is from this site that the King of Buganda was coronated and it has been in existence for about 800 years. While here you can also visit the Buganda House-a place where the crowned prince lives for 9 days after he is crowned as Kabaka and the Mbonelede tree which features as among the oldest trees in Buganda Kingdom. It was also used as a Court by Kintu.

Nnamasole Kanyange Tombs

This is where the Queen Mother of King Suuna II was laid to rest. It is what connects the mother Queen with the Son. Nnamasole Kanyange tombs are close to Wamala Royal Tombs. There are myths about this area, it is claimed that Kabaka II feared to leave the mother and others believe that he wanted to keep watching the mother and that is why the tombs are near each other. The Queen Mother was such a beautiful and influential figure to the Royal Court. 

Wamala Royal Tombs

These royal tombs are half an hour drive away from Kampala city center. They are found on Kampala-Hoima road. The site is where King Suuna II was buried. 

Ssezibwa Falls

As you head toward the East, a visit to Ssezibwa waterfalls should be a must-do on Uganda safari. This is one of the magical waterfalls with rich history and unique culture of Buganda. It served as a favorite meeting point for the King of Buganda. Other kings even planted trees including King Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II. 

Nnamasole Baagalayaze Tombs

This heritage site is where the mother of King Mwanga II was laid to rest. She died around 1916 and the site is considered as a place of hope, learning and celebration. 

In summary, Uganda is blessed with unique cultures and numerous cultural sites to uncover the country’s rare history and distinct cultures. Hitting on the Kabaka’s trail is such a memorable cultural experience visitors on Uganda cultural safari shouldn’t miss out to uncover the unique traditions and cultures of Buganda Kingdom.