All you need to know about the things to do and see on Lake Mutanda : Lake Mutanda is one of the most scenic and small fresh water lakes in the entire African continent located in south western Uganda in Kisoro district a few kilometers from Kisoro town the headquarters of the district, Mutanda is a majestic sight to glimpse situated on the hillock of three Virunga mountain ranges that is mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga and mount Sabyinyo. These volcanoes create an a marvelous scenic scene view filled with white wispy clouds which are seen rotating around the peaks, from Kampala the capital city of Uganda Lake Mutanda lies in the southwest direction at a distance of 454 kilometers by road.
Lake Mutanda is a scenic haven dominated by many lovely magnificent islands numbering to 15 in number which are covered by attractive grasslands cover which is a dwell to small animals and only one of these islands is tenant by the local community which practice several activities like crop and tree planting and the rest are dwellers to wildlife. Lake Mutanda is extracted by Rutshuru River which flows north wards to Lake Edward. The lake is also is surrounded by gleaming alluring landscape which is tranquil by rotating hills which are covered by luscious trees, shrubs and terraces of crops which make your visit to this lake very interesting and exciting.
Mutanda and its islands are dwellers to a variety of attractive wildlife which are easily spotted. The wildlife in the lake and islands involves birds, fish and snakes. Bird species for example Pian-tailed whydah, great cormorant, pied kingfisher, malachite kingfisher and sunbirds. Lake is not inhabited by many bird species since it is in the high altitude location which facilitate the cold weather conditions at the lake which are very unfavorable to bird life. Other wildlife living around Lake Mutanda and the islands involves three types of fish that is caught that’s to say cat and mad fish, snakes like pythons, chameleon, monitor lizard, clawless otters and hippopotamuses. The weather around Lake Mutanda is delightful, with gentle breezes, cool nights, and sunny days. Embrace the serene ambiance accompanied by the imposing presence of the Virunga Volcanoes.
There are abundant activities and sights to experience on and around Lake Mutanda, making it a must-visit destination in Uganda. Including Lake Mutanda in your safari itinerary guarantees an unforgettable experience, as it stands among the most stunning lakes in Africa and beyond.
Things to do and see around Lake Mutanda
Canoeing
Canoeing is one of the most spectacular activities offered on Mutanda . A boat ride on Lake Mutanda in a locally made canoe is a thrilling adventure that most tourists love to experience while visiting this part of Uganda. As you ride on the lake you get to enjoy the cool breeze of the lake and the beautiful scenic views around the lake and also you get to see many bird species such as Pin-tailed Whydah, Kites, Malachite Kingfisher, weaver birds, Great Cormorant, Ibis, the Grey-crowned cranes, pied kingfishers and many more. For those who love to swim, the lake is safe for swimming and you can swim as you go on a boat ride.
Gorilla Trekking
For tourists looking to trek gorilla from the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, the safari lodges around Lake Mutanda is strategically located to enable them trek gorillas and explore Lake Mutanda while on safari.
Visiting the islands
A safari to Lake Mutanda without visiting the islands is never complete, Mutanda is dotted with many beautiful islands such as Punishment Island, Python Island and many more. Visiting the islands is done through a boat on the waters of Lake Mutanda, you get to encounter many mysteries of the islands such as skeletal caves on Punishment Island and Python Island which is a home to python snakes.
Hiking around Lake Mutanda
Lake Mutanda is surrounded by numerous hills making it a hikers paradise and to access the lake is only done by hiking, while hiking you get to enjoy beautiful breath-taking scenic views, hiking to and around one of the most fabulous hikes is a two-day hike from Buhoma to Nkuringo and then on the second day down to Lake Mutanda and a canoe trip across the Lake before it ends. Many other hikes and nature trails are found here that are most enjoyable, and you can easily stay here for a week and not explore it all.
Mountain biking
Mountain biking around Mutanda is an adventurous activity though a bit challenging, this safari involves riding through the rocky landscape surrounding the lake. While on the biking safari you get to enjoy the scenic views of greenery covered hills, mountain biking requires you to be physically fit and the activity doubles as an entertaining one and also for exercising. As a tourist on this activity Biking around Lake Mutanda gets enough experience the thrill of mountain biking as you explore the scenic surroundings of Lake Mutanda.
Sightseeing and photography
Lake Mutanda is a very picturesque lake with scenic sights making the lake Mutanda best for sightseeing, the lake also offers a great opportunity for taking wonderful memorable pictures.
Batwa cultural encounter
Batwa cultural encounter showcases the cultural side of your safari to Mutanda. The Batwa people were these forests were habitat for the ancient gatherer-hunter Batwa pygmies, though the Batwa people were original inhabitants of the forest, the Batwa has a rich history that predates the arrival of other ethnic groups in southwest Uganda. Unfortunately, the Batwa were evicted from Mgahinga Gorilla Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in 1991, becoming conservation refugees outside their beloved forest. Despite their displacement, it is still possible to witness how they once lived in harmony with the forest and experience their unique perspective as the original custodians. A visit in these forests you will enjoy cultural dances and songs, interact with the elders, spot the Batwa practicing local hunting tactics, building style using local materials and many more
Accommodations in and around Lake Mutanda
When on a Uganda safari visiting Lake Mutanda, they are a lot of accommodation facilities ranging from budget to luxury , you can stay at the midrange accommodation facilities strategically located in the area like Mutanda Lake Resort which offers comfortable accommodation for gorilla trackers, bird watchers and hikers of the nearby Bufumbira Mountains and Chameleon Hill Lodge which is conveniently located in the extreme southwestern corner of Uganda, about 550Km from Kampala where guests stay in colored chalets and surroundings that cater for their every need.
This article provides you with ideas regarding things to do and see around Lake Mutanda, book with Achieve Global Safaris for the best experience
