Short answer: The Uganda Martyrs trail links the places in and around Kampala connected to the 1880s martyrdoms. The main stops are Munyonyo, Mengo, Old Kampala, Kiyinda in Mityana, and the Catholic and Anglican shrines at Namugongo. You can see the central Kampala and Namugongo sites in one long day, or add Mityana over three days.
Last updated: 29 October 2026. Site details come from the sources linked below; confirm opening times before you travel.
The Uganda Martyrs trail is less a single path than a chain of places, each tied to a moment in the story of the 45 young Christians killed under Kabaka Mwanga II. Walking or driving it in order helps you see how the story moved from the royal court to the execution ground. This guide lists the stops and shows how to plan the route.
What is the Uganda Martyrs trail?
The Uganda Martyrs trail follows the places linked to the martyrdoms of 1885 to 1887 in the Kingdom of Buganda. It is promoted as a pilgrimage route by the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda, which describes the journey from Munyonyo to Namugongo on its Uganda Martyrs trail page.
If you are new to the history, read who the Uganda Martyrs were first. It explains the dates, the people and why 3 June matters, so the stops below will mean more.
The six main stops on the Uganda Martyrs trail
| Stop | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| 1. Munyonyo | The king’s palace stood here, and the killings began in this area. The Martyrs’ Shrine at Munyonyo is a thanksgiving monument for the 1964 canonisation. |
| 2. Mengo | Mwanga moved to Mengo from Munyonyo, and the condemned followed him. |
| 3. Old Kampala | Matia Mulumba was left here after torture and died after three days, according to the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda. |
| 4. Kiyinda, Mityana | Mawaggali was killed here on 31 May 1886. A cathedral now stands on the land. |
| 5. Namugongo Catholic basilica | Where most of the Catholic martyrs were burned on 3 June 1886. |
| 6. Namugongo Anglican shrine | The execution site for the Anglican martyrs, with a museum that opened in 2015. |
Sources differ on small points, such as which martyrs died at which site, so guides may tell the story with slightly different details. That is normal for oral history, and a good guide will tell you when accounts disagree.
For the detail at the final stops, see our Namugongo Martyrs Shrine guide.
How long does the trail take?
It depends on how deeply you want to go. Munyonyo, Mengo, Old Kampala and Namugongo can be linked in one long day by road. Adding Mityana makes the trip longer, so most groups give it a separate day.
| Option | Best for |
|---|---|
| Namugongo day tour | Visitors with a few hours who want the main shrines |
| Full-day trail tour | A single day from Munyonyo to Namugongo |
| 3-day pilgrimage | Parishes and groups who want prayer time and Mityana |
| 5-day multi-faith pilgrimage | Groups who also want mosques, the Bahai Temple and the Nile |
Walking pilgrims and Martyrs’ Day
Many pilgrims walk to Namugongo, some for several days. Some go barefoot, others carry crosses or pray along the way. Their journeys end at the shrines on 3 June, Martyrs’ Day.
You do not need to walk to follow the trail, but if you are visiting around Martyrs’ Day, expect road closures, security checks and large crowds. Our Martyrs’ Day 2027 accommodation guide covers where to stay.
Tips for visiting the trail sites
- Start early. Kampala traffic builds quickly, and the sites are easier to enjoy in the morning.
- Dress modestly. Cover shoulders and knees at every church and shrine. See our dress code guide.
- Hire a guide. The story is told across sites, and a guide connects them.
- Check opening times. Shrines and museums may close for services or events.
- Ask before photographing. Especially people at prayer.
You can also combine the trail with other faith sites, such as the Kampala National Mosque and the Bahai Temple in Kampala. Our religious tourism in Uganda page lists every itinerary.
Uganda Martyrs trail FAQs
Where does the Uganda Martyrs trail start and end?
The trail described by the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda runs from Munyonyo to Namugongo, following the route the condemned travelled. Many tours add Mityana as an extra stop.
Can I do the Uganda Martyrs trail in one day?
Yes, the Kampala-area stops and Namugongo can be linked in one long day with a driver. Add Mityana or time for prayer and you will want two to three days.
Is the trail only for Christians?
No. Visitors of all faiths take the trail to learn about Uganda’s history. Treat the sites as places of worship, dress modestly and follow the guide’s advice.
Do I need a guide?
You can visit without one, but a guide links the sites and explains the history, which helps because the stops are spread across Kampala and beyond.
How do I book a Uganda Martyrs trail tour?
Send us your dates, group size and faith tradition and we will quote a programme. Request a free quote.
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About the author: Victoria Kayaga
Victoria Kayaga is a Ugandan-born safari expert and the founder of Afraeka Adventures, with over 7 years of experience in the East African tourism industry. She specializes in gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris and multi-country itineraries across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania.
