Lake Mutanda

Lake Mutanda is situated in Kisoro District, southern Uganda, 20 kilometers north of Kisoro town, which houses the district headquarters. This site is situated 454 kilometers by road southwest of Kampala. It is located in the foothills of the Virunga Mountain Range, at an elevation of 1,800 meters. The three volcanoes in Uganda, specifically Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabinyo, and Mount Gahinga, are seen from Lake Mutanda. The lake contains multiple islets. The lake is emptied by the Rutshuru River, which courses northward to Lake Edward. The ecosystem of the islands in the lake and the adjacent countryside comprises lakeside woods and wetland habitats that serve as a refuge for the endangered mountain gorilla.

Lake Mutanda is undoubtedly a concealed gem inside the rugged terrain of Kisoro, Southwestern Uganda. Lake Mutanda is renowned for its crystalline waters, surrounded by towering old volcanoes, rendering it one of the most magnificent lakes. It is a preferred location for relaxation following gorilla trekking in Mgahinga National Park or Bwindi National Park.

Geographical position and altitude

Lake Mutanda is a small freshwater lake located in the Kisoro District in Southwestern Uganda. Situated at an elevation of 1800m, this remarkable region offers an exceptional hiking experience with certain breathtaking vistas of the Virunga Volcanoes: Mt. Sabinyo, Muhabura, and Gahinga. This freshwater lake comprises approximately 15 remarkable islands, including Python Island and Mutanda Island, and offers spectacular vistas. The Rutshuru River, which runs northward, drains into Lake Edward.

Lake Mutanda is reachable in thirty minutes from Kisoro town. The lake sustains various species, including birds such as grey-crowned cranes, sunbirds, kingfishers, and pin-tailed whydahs, as well as snakes, frogs, chameleons, African clawless otters, and multiple fish species. Mgahinga National Park and Bwindi National Park, located close, provide sanctuary for a variety of primate species and avifauna, including cormorants, pin-tailed whydahs, sunbirds, and pied and malachite kingfishers.

Around Lake Mutanda

Lake Mutanda is encircled by three remarkable extinct volcanoes, including Mount Gahinga, Mount Muhabura, and Sabyinyo Volcano, each providing stunning distant vistas.

Alongside the mountain gorilla and golden monkey in the adjacent Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, the lakeside ecosystem hosts a diverse array of flora and fauna endemic to this region. The avian species including kingfishers, kites, ibises, and Uganda’s national bird, the crested crane. Weaver bird nests are frequently observed amid the reeds near the lakeshore. The lake shore hosts a diverse array of bird species, as well as many species of snakes, chameleons, monitor lizards, and frogs. There exists a diverse and plentiful array of insect life as well. The distinctive mammals of Lake Mutanda comprise the African clawless otter. The hippopotamus was native to the region, but the last sighting was at Lake Mutanda in 1994.

Mutanda Island, situated at an elevation of 1,790 meters, is the largest of the islands in Lake Mutanda. The Lake is a volcanic freshwater lake in the region, attributed to local springs and streams.

Activities on Lake Mutanda: Canoeing

Canoeing is a notable aquatic activity available on a safari on Lake Mutanda. The experience is more unsettling, and the sea is completely tranquil. The lake exhibits unparalleled beauty, enhanced by its picturesque islands and adjacent volcanoes.

Explore the Islands

Lake Mutanda comprises 15 picturesque islands, renowned for their striking beauty. They offer a vantage point for breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings. The most notable island to explore is Mutanda Island, which is also inhabited by the Abagesera clan. The clan possesses a church situated atop the island, where local worshippers from the mainland convene for prayers. Access to Mutanda Island is achievable by a canoe voyage utilizing a traditional dugout canoe.

Trekking

During the Lake Mutanda trip, you may participate in a guided hike around the lake with a knowledgeable guide. During the climb, anticipate appreciating the breathtaking vistas of the lake and the adjacent volcanoes.

Mountain cycling

Lake Mutanda is ideally located, providing extensive terrain for bike activities. The mountainous terrain surrounding the lake is stunning and ensures the most magnificent vistas.

Explore Garama Cave

A visit to Lake Mutanda offers numerous options to enhance your holiday experience. A local guide will accompany you on a fulfilling trip to explore Garama Cave, which formerly served as a haven for the Batwa pygmies.

Volcanic trekking in the adjacent Mgahinga National Park

Mount Muhabura

Mt. Muhabura, named from the Kinyarwanda term meaning ‘the guide,’ is at an elevation of 4,127 meters. It is the third highest Virunga Volcano, necessitating a full day to complete the hard hikes associated with it. At the top, one can appreciate the vistas of the adjacent Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Lake Edward, and the Rwenzori Mountain ranges.

Gahinga Volcano

Gahinga Volcano is diminutive, reaching an elevation of 3473 meters, and its name originates from the native term “Gahinga,” signifying a mound of stones. This volcano offers moderate hikes, and hiking permits may be obtained for USD 75.

Mount Sabinyo

Sabinyo Volcano, also known as Old Man’s Teeth, ascends to an elevation of 3,669 meters and is recognized as the oldest volcano. Sabinyo features several hiking trails, each presenting unique levels of difficulty. The primary areas of attraction encompass the Sabyinyo Gorge path and the border route.

Accommodation options

Recommended lodging options for overnight stays at Lake Mutanda include Lake Mutanda Resort and Chameleon Hill Lodge. Other lodges in proximity to Lake Mutanda include Mondi Lodge Kisoro, Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge, and Gahiza Island Retreat, among others.