Welcome to our Exploring Kapchorwa series! In these blogs, we share highlights from our time in this special part of Uganda, covering the activities we’ve tried, the people we’ve met, and the beauty of the area. We hope to inspire you to discover it for yourself.
🤝 A warm welcome to Kapchorwa
On our first day, we decide to take a walk around town to get a feel for the area. Two local guides, Shadrack and Joshua, join us. Both grew up in Kapchorwa and seem to know everything about the town: Its history, culture, and daily life.
We start the walk at Home of Friends Guesthouse, our home base in a quiet part of town. Within the first few meters, we already notice how friendly the people are. Many greet us with warm smiles and curious glances!😊
People in Kapchorwa Town
🏃 The local running track
Not far from the Guesthouse, we come across the local running track. At the time, only a few guys are playing soccer in the middle field, but Shadrack explains how bustling it gets in the mornings. Groups of runners, school sports activities, and casual joggers all share the space.
Kapchorwa is famous for its world-class runners, and seeing the track makes me excited to learn more about this part of the culture.
A visitor meeting Olympic Champion Stephen Kiprotich at Boma Grounds in Kapchorwa Town
Walking through town
From there, we head into the busy town center. Shops, market stalls, and boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis, commonly called bodas) fill the streets.
Music blasts from large speakers on nearly every corner, often overlapping and blending into a lively, rhythmic background. It’s chaotic but in the best way, a vibrant heartbeat of daily life. 🎶
🌄 A stunning valley view
Leaving the hustle behind, we reach our first viewpoint. From here, the landscape surrounding Kapchorwa stretches out before us, an endless valley of rolling hills and farmland. It’s breathtaking.
Shadrack mentions that we'll actually walk through this very valley during the Wilderness Hike later in the week. Knowing that makes the view even more exciting.
Kapchorwa Town early morning. Picture taking from Stanbic Bank.
Different neighborhoods
This part of the walk takes us through a more modest area of town. The houses here are simpler, but the people are just as welcoming. Children wave enthusiastically as we pass, giggling when we wave back.
We also walk through a middle-class neighborhood, noticeably quieter and more private. It’s interesting to see the contrast, each area has its own unique character and charm.
Back along the main road
Our route back takes us along the busy main road. Vendors line the street, selling fresh fruits and vegetables. Bodas zip past, and small groups gather for a chat. It’s late afternoon, and the town’s vibrant energy is in full swing.
Chapatti maker along the streets of Kapchorwa Town
💚 A memorable first day
This walk is the perfect introduction to Kapchorwa. What stands out most is how friendly everyone is. We learn that Kapchorwa means ‘Home of Friends,’ and we can definitely feel that here.
Shadrack and Joshua are incredible guides, answering all our questions and sharing personal stories that help us better understand life in this part of Uganda.
Kapchorwa leaves a lasting impression, and we’re already excited to explore more!
Some fun facts
🏍️ Boda-bodas: The name boda-boda comes from “border-to-border.” These motorcycles were originally used to transport people across borders.
⚰️ The Hospital Cemetery: One unique spot in town is the hospital cemetery, located at the top of the valley. Graveyards are rare here, as people are typically buried next to their homes. This cemetery is now rarely used, and parts of it have even been repurposed as farmland.
🐐 Animals Around Town: Cows, chickens, goats, pigs, and dogs roam freely, mostly minding their own business. Animals here serve a practical purpose rather than being pets. It’s a stark contrast to Western views on animals and food production. Something that really made us think!
📍 Practical INFORMATION
Distance: 6.5 km
Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Best Time: Afternoon
Bring: Comfortable shoes, water, and some cash if you’d like to buy anything.
Top Tip: 👉 Go with a guide! Someone like Shadrack or Joshua makes all the difference. Their stories and knowledge truly bring the town to life.