Kaynela Farms in Bwemulamira, Kayunga, welcomed Ugandan writers from the 2025 Top 30 Tourism and Travel Writers for a one-day educational and experience-based visit ahead of this year’s Kaynela Farm Fest. The visit was part of the final phase of the 2025 Travel Writing Competition, where writers are required to craft a conservation-centered story inspired by their experience at the farm.
A LEARNING EXPERIENCE ROOTED IN SUSTAINABILITY: CULTURE, FOOD, AND THE KAYNELA EXPERIENCE
The trip offered the writers an up-close look at Kaynela’s model of agro-tourism, sustainability, and community-driven conservation. From organic farming systems to cultural encounters and hands-on experiences, the visit provided diverse angles for storytelling in line with this year’s theme, “Encounters that Inspire Conservation.”
These experiences mirrored what Farm Fest guests can expect during the festival’s guided farm tours, where visitors move through similar sections to understand how conservation, farming, culture, and innovation all connect at Kaynela.
The timing of the visit worked well for both sides. As the writers explored the farm to gather ideas for their submissions, they were also stepping into the same environment that hundreds of guests will soon experience during the Farm Fest on December 24th–26th — including the food, culture, sustainability practices, and relaxed outdoor setting that the festival is known for.
During the visit, the writers were served a range of local dishes prepared using ingredients grown on the farm, enjoyed in an open-air setup with wooden cutlery and handmade serving pieces. This farm-to-table approach is also part of the Farm Fest’s identity, featuring fresh food, eco-conscious tools, and a calm outdoor dining atmosphere.
The Ankole cultural session the writers attended also reflects one of the festival’s core experiences. Farm Fest guests will enjoy cultural depth beyond the Ankole traditions, as most cultures from different regions of the country will be represented.
LOOKING AHEAD TO THE 2025 KAYNELA FARM FEST
As preparations continue for the festival, this year’s edition promises the same blend of food, culture, and entertainment that made last year’s carnival successful — now with an even wider range of activities.
Accommodation Rates
Tents:
•Single – UGX 705,000
•Couple – UGX 1,290,000
•Family of Four – UGX 2,450,000
Cottages & Lodges:
•Couple – UGX 3,670,000
•Family of Four – UGX 4,490,000
Each package covers accommodation, meals, entertainment, and access to all festival activities.
WHAT GUESTS CAN EXPECT
Guests can look forward to a line-up that blends culture, food, learning, and relaxation in one space. Some of the key experiences include:
•Traditional food showcases from different regions
•Cooking demonstrations using fresh farm produce
•Cultural exhibitions
•Live entertainment throughout the event
•Birding experiences
•Guided farm tours
•Carpentry displays and hands-on learning
•A relaxed outdoor atmosphere suitable for families, groups, and solo travelers.
The festival is designed to give visitors a full feel of agro-tourism food, culture, farming, nature, and community all in one place.
A GLIMPSE BACK AT THE PREVIOUS EDITION
Last year’s carnival drew large numbers for its food alley, different cultural showcases, and evening entertainment. This year builds on that energy with more food options, expanded cultural segments, and additional activities designed to give visitors a complete agro-tourism experience.
By hosting both the writers and the annual festival, Kaynela Farms continues to show how tourism, storytelling, conservation, and community experiences can come together in one space.