Arua

Arua is the main city of the West Nile sub-region in north-western Uganda, located approximately 40 km from the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The city is a major trading hub for the region and serves as a gateway to the Congo and South Sudan. Arua has a distinctively cosmopolitan character, with significant Congolese and South Sudanese trading communities alongside the native Lugbara population.

The Lugbara people are the dominant ethnic group, and Lugbara and English are widely spoken. Arua has grown rapidly and is now the second-largest city in northern Uganda after Gulu.

By Plane

Arua Airport (RUA IATA) has daily flights from Entebbe operated by Uganda Airlines and Aerolink (about 1 hour).

By Train

There is no passenger train service to Arua.

By Car / Road

Buses from Kampala travel to Arua (6–7 hours) via Gulu. The road is paved. Private taxis from Kampala cost around 400,000–500,000 UGX.

Boda-bodas are the main transport within Arua. The city centre is walkable in parts. Private taxis are available for longer trips.

• Arua Market — A vibrant market with Congolese and South Sudanese goods alongside local produce

• Arua Hill — A viewpoint overlooking the city and surrounding countryside

• St. Joseph's Cathedral — The Catholic cathedral in Arua, an important religious centre

• Ediofe Hills — Located on the outskirts with scenic views

• Cross the border into Congo's Orientale Province for a day trip (visa required)

• Visit local Lugbara communities to learn about their culture and traditions

• Birdwatching in the surrounding savannah and woodland areas

• White Castle Restaurant — Popular for international and local dishes
• Arua Hill Restaurant — Ugandan and Congolese cuisine
• Street food — Grilled fish from the Nile, rolex, and samosas

Local bars serve Nile Special and Club beer. The influence of the DRC is noticeable in the local drinking culture. Bottled water is recommended.

• Budget: Arua Backpackers (dorm from 20,000 UGX) and Arua Guest House (basic rooms from 25,000 UGX)
• Mid-range: White Castle Hotel (rooms from US$50) and Arua Hill Hotel (from US$60)
• Upscale: New Arua Hotel (from US$70)

Arua Market is known for Congolese goods (gold, foodstuffs), handwoven baskets, and papyrus crafts. The cross-border trade makes for an interesting shopping experience.

• Koboko (40 km north) — Northernmost town in Uganda
• Yumbe (60 km east) — Refugee settlement area
• Gulu (200 km east, 4 hrs) — Acholi regional capital
• Moyo (120 km east) — West Nile town on the South Sudan border
• Adjumani (150 km east, 3 hrs) — Refugee settlement hub