Kingdoms of Uganda: Buganda, Bunyoro, Toro, Busoga, Ankole and Rwenzururu
Uganda's kingdoms remain important cultural institutions even though they hold no political power.
Before colonial rule, much of what is now Uganda was organised into kingdoms. Several were abolished in 1967 and restored as cultural institutions in 1993. Today the main ones are Buganda, Bunyoro-Kitara, Toro, Busoga and the Rwenzururu kingdom, and a number of other communities have cultural leaders.
Visitors can see palaces, royal tombs and cultural centres, especially in and around Kampala and Fort Portal. See the Buganda heritage tour, the Kasubi Tombs and the Kingdom of Toro.
This guide is part of our Uganda people, culture and history guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.
At a glance
- Restored: 1993 as cultural institutions
- Main kingdoms: Buganda, Bunyoro-Kitara, Toro, Busoga, Rwenzururu
- Best to visit: Kampala, Fort Portal
- Role today: Cultural, not political
The Main Kingdoms
- Buganda: the largest, centred on Kampala and Mengo; see Buganda heritage.
- Bunyoro-Kitara: in the west, linked to the legendary Bachwezi.
- Toro: based in Fort Portal; see Toro.
- Busoga: around Jinja.
Visiting Royal Sites
The Kasubi Tombs are the best known; you can also visit the Uganda Museum for royal artefacts.
Culture in Your Itinerary
See culture and heritage tours and cultural safaris.
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Related Tours, Guides and Resources
- Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
- Uganda safari packages
- Uganda travel guide
- How to book a Uganda safari
- Plan your safari with our team
Itineraries That Include This Experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Uganda Safari Pages
- Uganda People, Culture and History: Kingdoms, Tribes, Dances, Crafts and Landmarks
- How Many Tribes Are in Uganda? Ethnic Groups and Peoples of Uganda
- Kingdom of Toro: History, the Omukama and Fort Portal Palace
- The Bachwezi Empire: Legend and Ancient Earthworks of Western Uganda
- Namirembe Cathedral (St. Paul's) in Kampala: History and Visiting Guide
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