Masindi Hotel

During a recent business trip with my company Safari Lux Travel accompanied by photographer partner Tom, we were warmly welcomed by Opio at the historic Masindi Hotel in Uganda. To our surprise, we even caught a glimpse of the Queen Mother of Bunyoro during our stay. Opio, a passionate storyteller with a deep knowledge of the Bunyoro Kingdom’s rich history, immediately began sharing tales of King Kabalega, the British colonial era, Hemingway, and the filming of The African Queen. The Masindi Hotel has hosted great kings, queens, and adventurers—and the walls seem to echo with their stories. We specifically requested Room 8, famously known as the Hemingway Room. This was where Ernest Hemingway recuperated after surviving two plane crashes in the African bush in 1954. Bruised, burned, and mistakenly declared dead, Hemingway emerged days later—alive, battered, and reportedly celebrating with gin and champagne. He spent time here healing, reflecting, and writing. As I sat at the same reading table where he once crafted his legendary prose, I felt his presence. I was reminded of two profound truths: great stories often arise from what didn’t go as planned—and every setback, no matter how dramatic, might become part of the greater narrative we’re meant to tell. If you want to be part of a great chapter of history, I encourage you to stay at Masindi Hotel. The staff are friendly and professional, the atmosphere is rich with heritage, and the dining was a pleasant surprise—we enjoyed a Chinese dinner, and it was great to see such a diverse menu.

Beautiful historical hotel, the oldest in Uganda. Stayed here for 2 nights and loved the vibe. Very good food and staff and owners are extremely helpful and friendly. Super clean. Excellent internet and hot showers! Highly recommended.

Excellent Service the room were super clean and modern.The stuff were friendly and we experienced an easy check in process.although it is the oldest hotel in Uganda it was very modern and up to date.This is a place i hope to revisit again.A plus for me is how the owner treats the stuff.

We love this hotel so much. I think it is my favourite hotel in Uganda. Steeped in history and a timeless magic. The decoration is simple and perfect. The Hemingway room has a certain magic. the staff a re wonderful and the sizzling Chinese dishes are perfect. perfect location in the middle of Masindi town. we came for one night and we stayed three.

The 100-year old hotel definitely has a colonial feel to it. The restaurant serves delicious meals with pleasant music in the background. Best Palak Paneer in the country. All the other dishes were delicious too. Friendly staff. The washrooms are very clean at all times.

Strategically located well, Convinient to all travellers, Historical Hotel with amazing History in Uganda’s rich Culture Lovely staff… clean and Comfortable I recommend anyone who would wish to stay in Masindi, stay at Masindi Hotel Also you can access Murchison falls park from this Hotel