Lake Mutanda
Lake Mutanda is a little freshwater lake located in the extreme southwest of Uganda, adjacent to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The Rutshuru River, which flows northward to Lake Edward, drains the area.
Lake Mutanda is just a 30-minute drive from the town of Kisoro.
At an elevation of 1,800 meters, it is an excellent location for hiking, with stunning vistas of the Virunga Mountains.
Uganda – Pearl of Africa – Lake Mutanda & Bwindi
Volcanoes around Lake Mutanda
Which volcanoes surround Lake Mutanda
Three extinct volcanoes are visible from the lake: Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabyinyo, and Mount Gahinga.
If you are an avid hiker, it is advisable to take a pair of durable walking boots, as you will not want to forfeit the breathtaking vistas that these trails provide.
Hiking at Lake Mutanda
Mount Muhabura, ‘The Guide’
Mount Muhabura translates to ‘the guide’ in Kinyarwanda, Rwanda’s official language. Mount Muhabura, with an elevation of 4,127 meters, ranks as the third highest peak in the Virunga Mountains.
This arduous walk, characterised by a gradual ascent across rugged terrain, generally requires an entire day to complete.
The trip, while physically strenuous, offers stunning vistas of Lake Edward, Bwindi, and the summit of the Rwenzori Mountains.
Ensure to pack a camera to document the breathtaking panoramic vista. You will contemplate it for years ahead.
Mount Gahinga
Mount Gahinga, at an elevation of 3,473 meters, is lesser in height than both Mount Muhabura and Mount Sabyinyo. In Kinyarwanda, ‘Gahinga’ signifies ‘a heap of stones’.
The trail is more gradual and appropriate for novice hikers. On the day of your hike, you are required to purchase a hiking permit for $75 and participate in a health and safety briefing.
Bamboo flourishes on the inclines of Mount Gahinga, where one may find bamboo woods teeming with diverse animals, including the endangered mountain gorilla and the majestic sunbird.
The picturesque walk commences at 07:00 on a gradual ascent and will require approximately 6 hours to complete.
Mount Sabyinyo ‘Old Man’s Teeth’
Mount Sabyinyo is referred to locally as ‘Old Man’s Teeth’ because the summit resembles worn dentition. Mount Sabyinyo, with an elevation of 3,669 meters, is the oldest volcano in the range.
Numerous hiking trails exist, each presenting different levels of difficulty. It comprises three peaks, the foremost being the Sabyinyo Gorge, characterised by dense flora. This location is renowned for avian observation; however, remain vigilant for golden monkeys!
The second peak entails across the border between Rwanda and Uganda.
The third summit is arduous. You will be using your hands in conjunction with ladders. Nonetheless, if you are prepared for the task, you will simultaneously be in Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo.
Things to Do in Lake Mutanda
Garama Cave visit
Lake Mutanda offers attractions beyond hiking. Numerous activities are available for those disinterested in hiking.
Exploring the Garama Cave significantly enhances one’s comprehension of the indigenous civilisations. This tourism route was established through a partnership between the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and The United Organisation for Batwa Development in Uganda.
The trail is intended to assist the Batwa, who occupied the caverns for numerous years prior to their recent resettlement. Batwa guides will provide a tour of the 340-meter-long cave and offer insights into their culture and lifestyle.
2. Island Tours
Lake Mutanda comprises 15 small islets. Mutanda Island is populated by a clan known as the Abagesera. The Abagesera have constructed a church atop the island, where they receive local believers from the mainland.
Journey to the island via a traditional dugout canoe or a vessel. From this vantage point, you will be able to observe the landscape from an alternative perspective and engage with the local inhabitants. To immerse yourself in the culture, you may participate in community walks and visit the local church.
Intrepid explorers may traverse the Punishment Islands, formerly inhabited by societal outcasts of the region. It houses skeletal remains, and certain locals assert that it is haunted.
More adventurous visitors may venture to Python Island to observe the indigenous snakes.
Canoeing
If you want to get off the ground and onto the water, canoeing is a terrific way to discover the lake. This is one among the most soothing hobbies, as the water is noted for being tranquil.
Navigate effortlessly over the serene seas from one island to another. It is possible to observe many birds and otters.
Mountain Biking
Adrenaline enthusiasts can devote hours to biking on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains.
Experience the wind swiftly passing your face as you down a steep incline, with gravity drawing you towards the shores of Lake Mutanda, where your lakeside resort awaits.