Short answer: The walking pilgrimage to Namugongo is the journey thousands of Ugandans make on foot to the Martyrs Shrine before 3 June. Some walk for days, a few barefoot or carrying crosses. Walks are organised by dioceses and parishes, so the best way to join is through a church group.
Last updated: 29 October 2026. The 2026 national event was cancelled, so check with your diocese before planning a 2027 walk.
Every year, a walking pilgrimage to Namugongo carries people from across Uganda to the place where the martyrs died. It is one of the most moving sights in East Africa. This guide explains how the walk works, who organises it, and how visitors can take part or watch respectfully.
How the walking pilgrimage works
Pilgrims set out from their home dioceses, often days or weeks before Uganda Martyrs Day on 3 June. Many walk long distances, and some go barefoot or carry crosses as an act of penance. Groups arrive from places such as Kabale, Mbarara, Fort Portal, Masaka and Lugazi, and some camp at the shrine for about a week before the day.
Walks are organised by dioceses and parishes rather than by a single central body. That is why routes, start dates and support differ from group to group.
An example: the 2025 walk from Lira
In 2025, about 1,000 pilgrims left Lira on 16 May and walked roughly 380 km to Namugongo. They stayed at parishes and mission schools along the way, were given meals, and travelled with health workers and security escorts.
That shows how structured a large walk can be, though smaller walks are more basic.
What changed in 2026 and what to expect in 2027
The 2026 national event was cancelled during the Ebola outbreak, and walkers were affected, including more than 70 pilgrims from the DRC who were in Kasese. Uganda declared the outbreak over on 28 July 2026. Kasese Diocese is leading the 2027 celebration, according to the Uganda Episcopal Conference. Read our guide to Uganda Martyrs Day for the latest on dates and plans.
How to join or watch the walk
- Join through a parish or diocese. Organised groups have food, shelter and security.
- Do not walk alone on rural roads. Large groups are safer and easier to support.
- Prepare your body. Train with long walks, break in your shoes and carry water.
- Protect yourself from the sun and rain. Bring a hat, a light rain jacket and spare socks.
- Be a respectful observer. If you are watching, ask before photographing pilgrims and never block the road.
We do not organise the walks ourselves. If you want to meet pilgrims at the shrine or build a visit around the final days, we can plan transport, guides and a place to stay for your group.
Visiting the shrine after the walk
Most pilgrims end at the Namugongo Martyrs Shrine. Nearby you can see the Uganda Martyrs Museum and learn about the man who led the group, Charles Lwanga. For the full background, see who the Uganda Martyrs were. Our page on religious tourism in Uganda lists every pilgrimage itinerary, including the 3-day Uganda Martyrs trail pilgrimage.
Walking pilgrimage to Namugongo FAQs
How far do pilgrims walk to Namugongo?
It depends on where they start. In 2025 a group of about 1,000 left Lira and walked roughly 380 km. Others come from nearer dioceses and walk shorter distances.
Who organises the walking pilgrimage to Namugongo?
Dioceses and parishes organise the walks. They arrange routes, overnight stops at parishes and mission schools, meals, health support and security escorts.
Can tourists join the walking pilgrimage to Namugongo?
Visitors can join through a parish or diocese group. Organised groups are safer than walking alone, and a local guide can help you contact one.
When do pilgrims start walking to Namugongo?
Many leave days or weeks before Uganda Martyrs Day on 3 June. Start dates differ by diocese, so check with the group you plan to join.
Can you help plan a visit around the walking pilgrimage?
Yes. We can arrange transport, guides and stays around the final days of the walk. 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.
