Masindi in Western Uganda

Masindi lies in the central west of Uganda and has around 98,000 inhabitants (2024 census). For Uganda the town is significant above all from an agricultural point of view, for Masindi is still regarded as the centre of tobacco growing – even though the sector has shrunk considerably (BAT withdrawal in 2014).

Masindi was of greater importance in the past, for the town lies on formerly important trade routes from the Congo to Mombasa (Kenya) and from Kampala to Sudan. Owing to the unrest in the Congo and Sudan, however, these routes have lost their significance.

There is nothing impressive for travellers to see in the town itself. In the immediate surroundings, however, lies Murchison Falls National Park, so that you can start your safari day trips from Masindi. The same applies to the nearby Budongo Forest Reserve – one of the best-preserved rainforest areas in East Africa.

Only 50 km away to the south-east lies the Ziwa Rhino & Wildlife Ranch (around 33 white rhinos). Here the so far very successful attempt to reintroduce the white rhino in Uganda is under way. The road is asphalted and in good condition; you can reach the rhinos from Masindi in around 50 minutes.

Further Links

• Background information on Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda
• Background information on Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
• Hotels and accommodation in Masindi, Uganda