3-Day Uganda Martyrs Trail Pilgrimage

Last updated October 2026. Planned by Victoria Kayaga, founder of Afraeka Adventures, with over 7 years in East African tourism.

Uganda Martyrs trail pilgrimage: quick answer

The Uganda Martyrs trail pilgrimage is a 3-day guided journey through Kampala, Namugongo and Mityana. It follows the route of the Uganda Martyrs, young Christians who were put to death in 1885 and 1886 for refusing to renounce their faith.

You travel with a private driver-guide who explains the history at each stop. Day 1 covers the Kampala martyrdom sites, Day 2 is spent at the Namugongo shrines and museum, and Day 3 is a day trip to Mityana before you return to Kampala.

Day-by-day summary of the Uganda Martyrs trail

Day 1, Kampala martyrdom sites. You visit the Munyonyo Martyrs Shrine, Nakivubo and Mengo, with a stop at Rubaga Cathedral. The evening is free to rest.

Day 2, Namugongo. You spend the day at the Catholic Martyrs’ Shrine and Basilica, the Anglican Martyrs’ Shrine and the museum. There is time set aside for prayer and reflection.

Day 3, Mityana and return. You take a day trip to Mityana to follow the trail westward, then drive back to Kampala.

Who this pilgrimage suits

This pilgrimage suits individual pilgrims, parishes and faith groups. The trail is open to travellers of every background, and we adapt the pace and the visits to your group, your faith tradition and your travel dates.

Martyrs’ Day is observed on 3 June at Namugongo and draws very large crowds. If you plan to travel then, book accommodation and transport early.

What is and is not included

Included: a driver-guide and transport for the sites in the itinerary, and guided visits at the shrines and the museum.

Not included: international flights, visa fees, travel and medical insurance, personal expenses and tips. Tell us your budget and preferred hotel type when you request a quote, and we will price accommodation, meals and transport for your dates.

Practical tips for the Uganda Martyrs trail pilgrimage

Dress modestly at all places of worship, and bring comfortable shoes for the shrine grounds. Allow quiet time at each site, because the guide’s explanations and your own prayer are the heart of the day.

If you want a shorter or longer option, see our Uganda Martyrs trail full-day tour, our Namugongo martyrdom day tour or the 5-day multi-faith pilgrimage.

Frequently asked questions

Who were the Uganda Martyrs?

They were a group of young Christians, 22 Catholics and 23 Anglicans, killed in 1885 and 1886 under Kabaka Mwanga of Buganda for refusing to renounce their faith.

When is Uganda Martyrs’ Day?

Martyrs’ Day is observed on 3 June at Namugongo. Book early if you plan to travel then.

Is this pilgrimage only for Christians?

No. The trail is open to travellers of every background, and we can adapt the visits to your group.

Is accommodation included?

Accommodation is quoted for your dates and budget when you request a quote.

Related guides and sources

Read more in our guide to religious tourism in Uganda and our Martyrs’ Day 2027 pilgrimage guide. For general travel information, see the Uganda Tourism Board. Request a free quote and we will reply by email.

The Uganda Martyrs trail pilgrimage in more detail

Day 1: the Kampala martyrdom sites

The Uganda Martyrs trail pilgrimage begins in Kampala. You visit the Munyonyo Martyrs Shrine, Nakivubo and Mengo, with a stop at Rubaga Cathedral. Your private driver-guide explains the history at each stop, from the young Christians who were put to death in 1885 and 1886 for refusing to renounce their faith. The evening is free to rest, which matters because Day 2 is a full day of walking and prayer.

Day 2: Namugongo

Day 2 is spent at Namugongo, the heart of the trail. You visit the Catholic Martyrs’ Shrine and Basilica, the Anglican Martyrs’ Shrine and the museum. There is time set aside for prayer and reflection, and the guide shares the stories of the 22 Catholic and 23 Anglican martyrs. Many pilgrims find it helpful to move slowly and to keep some quiet time at each site.

Day 3: Mityana and return

On day 3 you take a day trip to Mityana to follow the trail westward, then drive back to Kampala. The day completes the route and gives you a wider sense of how the story spread beyond the capital.

Planning your pilgrimage

The trail suits individual pilgrims, parishes and faith groups, and it is open to travellers of every background. We adapt the pace and the visits to your group, your faith tradition and your travel dates. Martyrs’ Day draws very large crowds to Namugongo, so book accommodation and transport early if you plan to travel then. Our Martyrs’ Day 2027 pilgrimage guide covers the details.

Practical tips

Dress modestly at all places of worship, and bring comfortable shoes for the shrine grounds. A driver-guide, transport for the sites and guided visits at the shrines and the museum are included. Accommodation, meals and transport are priced for your dates once you tell us your budget and preferred hotel type.

Making it your own

If you want a shorter or longer option, see our Uganda Martyrs trail full-day tour or the 5-day multi-faith pilgrimage. You can also read our guide to religious tourism in Uganda. Send us your questions and we will reply by email with a personal quote.