Ihimba Hot Springs

Ihimba hot springs are found in Kabale district (approximately 8 kilometers south of Kabale Town), South-western Uganda near the Kabale-Katuna road, surrounded by the eucalyptus forest and derive their name from the Bahima people who occupy the area. Just like most hot springs in Uganda, the Ihimba hot springs are said to possess healing powers, owing to the presence of chemicals and minerals like Lithium sulphate, Potassium chloride, Calcium phosphate, Sodium chloride, and Calcium chloride. Locals (Bakiga) of the Kigezi sub-region and far visit the area for healing against skin ailments, rheumatism, and backache among others.

A visit to this site also introduces tourists to Bahima communities, where unique cultures can be experienced. Other tribes living around the hot springs include the Banyarwanda, Banyankole and Bafumbira with unique cultures and traditions while exploring during and visit the hot springs.

While here, tourists also have the chance to experience the daily lives of the people and also purchase souvenirs from the local craft shop to take back home.  The hot springs are generally clean but unpleasant pools on the side of the houses partially obstructed by the eucalyptus forest.

Besides the Ihimba hot springs, Uganda is endowed with other hot springs across the country and they include Kitagata, Sempaya, Amoropii, Rwajimba, Kanangorok, Buranga, Rwajimba hot springs, Kibiro hot springs, and many others. Tourists exploring these hot springs can stay within Kabale Town where several budget accommodation facilities, midrange, and luxury can be found. However, besides the hot springs, Uganda is a popular destination for big five animals, mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, over 1061 species of birds as well as butterflies among others.

Due to the location of Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National parks within South-western Uganda, tourists visiting the Ihimba hot springs can also include the two mentioned gorilla trekking destinations to have the once in a lifetime opportunity of encountering the endangered giant Apes in their natural habitats.

Hot to get to the Ihimba hot springs

These hot springs can be reached from the popular Kabale-Katuna road found at only 8 kilometers off the main highway.

Therefore, the Ihimba hot springs are one of the popular hot springs within South-western Uganda due to their beautiful appearance and perceived healing powers by the people of Rwanda and the Bakiga people of Kigezi sub-region. People suffering from rheumatism as well as other ailments visit the Ihimba hot springs for healing.