Established in 1923 by the East African Railways, Masindi Hotel has a rich legacy that reflects the heritage and evolution of Uganda over the past century.

Masindi Hotel – A Historical Journey

1923: The Beginning

Masindi Hotel was built in 1923 by the East African Railways to accommodate passengers traveling along the railway line. Its strategic location in Masindi made it a key stopover for travelers exploring the region.

1930s-1950s: A Hub for Explorers

During the early 20th century, Masindi Hotel became a popular destination for explorers and adventurers. Among its notable guests was the famous writer Ernest Hemingway, who stayed at the hotel during his African safari in the 1930s. His presence added to the hotel’s allure, attracting more international visitors.

Post-Independence Era

After Uganda gained independence in 1962, Masindi Hotel continued to thrive as a landmark of hospitality. The hotel witnessed significant historical events and played host to numerous dignitaries and tourists exploring the country’s beauty.

The Hemingway Bar and Historical Significance

In honor of its famous guest, the hotel established the Hemingway Bar, which has since become a cherished spot for visitors. The bar, along with the hotel’s historical significance, offers guests a unique blend of nostalgia and comfort.

Renovations and Celebrations

In preparation for its 100-year celebration, Masindi Hotel underwent extensive renovations to preserve its historical charm while providing modern amenities. Despite challenges, including those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the hotel has maintained its commitment to excellence.

Present Day: A Heritage of Hospitality

Today, Masindi Hotel stands as a testament to Uganda’s rich history and resilience. Each room block is named to honor different aspects of its past, and the Kabalega Restaurant’s art gallery showcases artifacts from the Bunyoro Kitara Empire, adding cultural depth to the guest experience.

A Natural Haven

The hotel is not just a historical landmark but also a haven for nature lovers. Our gardens host rare species of birds, making it a delightful destination for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.

Masindi Hotel continues to be a beacon of hospitality, offering a blend of historical charm and modern comfort to guests from around the world. We invite you to experience the unique heritage and warm hospitality that has defined Masindi Hotel for over a century.

We look forward to welcoming you to Uganda’s oldest and most storied hotel.

Book a tour of the hotel when you arrive! This walking tour is designed to provide you with a comprehensive experience of Masindi Hotel and its unique offerings. Take your time to soak in the ambiance and hospitality that define this iconic establishment.

Begin your exploration at the grand main entrance of Masindi Hotel, notable for its colonial-style facade that reflects the elegance of its early days.

Step into the lobby, where colonial and modern design elements harmoniously blend. Admire the vintage furniture, historical photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of the hotel’s establishment in 1923 by the East African Railways.

Stroll through the hotel’s lush gardens, offering a peaceful retreat with well-manicured lawns, tropical flora, and shaded seating areas. Keep an eye out for the rare bird species that call these trees home.

Visit the renowned Hemingway Bar, known for its classic cocktails and warm ambiance. Ernest Hemingway himself stayed in room 8 to recover from his plane crash in Murchison Falls National Park.

Guests can immerse themselves in leisurely activities such as board games, reading from the bar’s library collection, or engaging in a friendly game of pool or table tennis. The atmosphere, steeped in literary history and a rustic charm, makes Hemingway’s Bar a must-visit spot for both literary aficionados and travelers seeking a serene retreat.

Named after the legendary warrior King Kabalega of the Bunyoro Kitara empire, the Kabalega Restaurant doubles as an art gallery showcasing artifacts from the empire’s history – a testament to the vibrant culture and traditions of the region. Each artifact tells a tale of the traditional African life of the peoples who thrived here. The Kabalega Restaurant offers not just a meal, but an immersive experience that honors the spirit and heritage of one of Africa’s great leaders.

Historical Significance

Explore the hotel’s rich history, including its role as a gathering place for early explorers and colonial administrators. Each block of rooms is named to reflect its unique history, such as the African Queen block where Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn stayed during the filming of African Queen.

Souvenir Shop

Browse the hotel’s souvenir shop, offering a variety of unique gifts and keepsakes to commemorate your visit.

Courtyard

Relax in the hotel’s courtyard, featuring a life-size chess board, pool table, table tennis, darts, and plenty of seating areas. Take a moment to unwind and reflect on the hotel’s history.

Walking tour of Masindi

Begin your tour at the historic Masindi Hotel, known for its colonial architecture and rich history dating back to the early 1920s. Take a moment to appreciate the building’s design and perhaps enjoy a meal or refreshment at the hotel’s restaurant.

Walk through the bustling Masindi Market, where you can experience the vibrant local culture and purchase fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to interact with locals and get a sense of daily life in Masindi.

Visit the nearby Sir Samuel Baker’s Fort, a historical site built-in 1872 by the famous explorer Sir Samuel Baker. The fort served as a military outpost during the exploration and colonization period and offers a glimpse into Uganda’s colonial past.

Stop by the Masindi Cultural Center, which showcases the traditional culture and heritage of the local Bunyoro people. Explore exhibitions of artifacts, traditional music, dance performances, and learn about the region’s history.

Visit St. Mary’s Cathedral, a beautiful Catholic church in Masindi known for its stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance. Take a moment to admire the church’s interior and learn about its history.

Nestled near the bustling town of Masindi in Uganda, the Polish Church in Nyabyeya stands as a poignant reminder of a unique and often overlooked chapter in the history of World War II. This church not only serves as a place of worship but also as a historical beacon that sheds light on the extraordinary journey of Polish refugees who found a temporary home in Uganda.

The Polish Church in Nyabyeya stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Polish community. This historical landmark highlights the global impacts of World War II and the interconnected histories of Poland and Uganda. Visiting the church offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the themes of exile, resilience, and the universal quest for peace and sanctuary.

This is a beautiful old hotel on 6 1/2 acres of well maintained grounds. The current owners are doing a remarkable job of restoring it to its former beauty. I love it here! Marilyn Drury • Canada

Prior to visiting the hotel, I had read a lot about it and I was excited about the trip to Murchison Falls. I’m happy to report that I wasn’t disappointed by what I saw and felt. The hotel is beautiful, clean, great decor, food was excellent! Their service was second to none. They made me feel at home. From the moment you walk in, you feel the warmth and welcoming love of the place right at the gate.

Did you know that Masindi Hotel was built in 1923 and it is Uganda’s oldest hotel? And that Ernest Hemingway the writer spent his time here recovering from not one but two plane crashes? In fact what I liked most is that the room that Ernest Hemingway stayed at the hotel and his room, is still in place.

I highly recommend this hotel for any traveller who plans to visit Uganda. Thank you Masindi Hotel family for making my stay a memorable one. I will definitely be coming back. Masaa Leboo • Kenya

Feel free to reach out to the team at Masindi Hotel if you have any questions or need further information.