Situated a few kilometers north of Mbarara town on the Masaka-Mbarara road, the Igongo Cultural Centre is a collection of Art crafts, Photos, Information Panels, Norms, Customs, Traditions and the history of the people of South Western Uganda (Ankole people). It also exhibits the culture of South Western Uganda and her neighboring kingdoms like Toro, Bunyoro, and others.
The Igongo Cultural Centre was opened by His Excellency the President of Uganda, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, on the 25th/December/2010 to promote the cultural heritage of south-western Uganda which is enclosed in the centre’s motto “Wisdom is rooted in the Past”. Within the centre, visitors can find the Eriijukiro museum – a tour of which takes like half an hour; Eitaramiro cultural village showing the evolution of typical Nyankore and Kigezi households; twenty two bed accommodation; restaurant (where you can try locally sourced traditional dishes of millet bread, Matooke and ghee, along with a local drink made from millet or sorghum), the Nkwanzi craft and book shop and the Mburo gardens which feature historical sculptures of animals and people.
Visitors can explore how their grandparents lived with a collection of historical artifacts brought to life with clay models and featured presentations. The cultural village showcases a traditional homestead complete with real milk gourds, calabashes, hides and skins and a fireplace together with grinding stones, millet flour and farming tools. The Igongo Cultural Centre also features information about the ancient tribes and clans of Uganda. A visit here is really worthwhile, especially if you’re a cultural avid!
Igongo Cultural Centre & Country Hotel:
Igongo Cultural Centre & Country Hotel is a leading recreational complex consisting of the captivating and one of the best museums in Uganda, Eriijukiro (the museum of South Western Uganda), a traditional restaurant, bar, luxurious & a spacious 5 star hotel nestled exactly 12 kilometers along the scenic Masaka-Mbarara highway.
It is the ultimate destination for lovers of history, art, culture and comfort. A staple of ultimate African luxury, Igongo blends comfort, relaxation and recreation in an environment offering beautiful scenery and beautiful gardens that capture the imaginations of both the young and the old. The complex is an attraction to a diversity of people and cultures both local and international.
With ample parking space and security, the complex has two entrances; one of which is a drive through the expansive gardens to the entrance of the hotel where guests are welcomed by a concierge. The entrance into the hotel’s lobby and foyer presents a beautiful artistic view of various art and culture exhibited.
Igongo comprises of an exceptional management team that runs it efficiently and effectively to make sure that it lives up to its promise of superior and excellent service. Igongo presents an elegant, executive and refreshing settling for tourists, hotel guests, day trippers and families who seek an enjoyable and memorable experience in a sophisticated and relaxing atmosphere.
Starting as a stop-over and resting place for travelers and tourists along the Masaka-Mbarara Highway, Igongo opened its gates in 2010 and has since emerged as the premier venue offering history, art, culture, food and the best accommodation with superior service in Western Uganda. You can visit this amazing place after or before exploring Uganda’s western and southwestern Parks like Bwindi Impenetrable (gorilla safaris), Queen Elizabeth (wildlife safaris), Kibale Forests (chimpanzee safaris), Semuliki (birding expeditions), Rwenzori Mountains (mountaineering), and Lake Mburo National Parks.