Lake of Mutanda is one the most scenic lake nestled high about 1800m asl between the towering steep highlands in the south-west tip of Uganda. This 22 square/km lava dammed lake was formed when river Rutshuru was blocked by flowing lava from Virunga Mountain ranges flooding the whole river valley system. Perfectly located between the gorilla parks of Mgahinga Gorilla NP and the southern trailheads of the UNESCO site of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Lake Mutanda is often used as a base for gorilla and golden monkey tracking experience. Sitting a few kilometers from Kisoro town, it is well serviced by a series of quality accommodations suiting all budgets and abounds with numerous activities to keep one busy.
Activities to do at Lake Mutanda
-
Take a Canoeing expereince to explore the historical Islands
While at Lake Mutanda, take a guided dugout canoe experience just like the locals do and explore some of historical islands that dot this scenic lake. Many of these islands possess a cultural significance to the local Bafumbira and were used as punishment or refuge sanctuaries. Culture aside, the landscapes are amazing including the towering Virunga ranges in the south of the lake. Experience lasts anywhere between 2/4hrs.
-
Bird Watching
Dedicated birdwatchers will be rewarded by over 150-species recorded here along the lakes’ extensive reed and marsh edges. Of interest is the White-winged Swamp Warbler, Highland Rush Warbler, Lesser Swamp Warbler, Augur Buzzard, Mountain Buzzard, Great Crested Grebe, Red-knobbed Coot, African Jacana, Pink-backed Pelican, Yellow-billed Duck, Hamerkop, African Darter, Long-tailed and Great Cormorant and more. On an extended birding excursion along the heavily cultivated water edges, highlights will include the skulking and shy Grey-capped Warbler, Black-headed Weaver, Chubb’s Cisticola, African Stonechat, Red-chested Sunbird, Northern-collared Sunbird, White-eyed Slaty Flycatcher, Bronze Sunbird, Streaky Seedeater, Western Citril, Yellow-bellied Waxbill, Holub’s Golden Weaver and more.
-
Hiking and Community Experience
The towering and terraced highlands that surround Lake Mutanda are both scenic and offer incredible views to the islands and the far Virunga Mountain ranges on the horizon. Explore on a gentle hiking expereince that follows local trail giving you opportunity to interact with local folks, learn of their lifestyle and agricultural practices. The local guides that lead these experiences will share with you a diverse culture of Bafumbira and Bakiiga people that inhabit the lakesides and terraced hillsides.
-
Biking
For adrenaline adventurers, a biking tour around these terraced highlands will give one a true biking experience and both scenic views. This local guided experience will take one biking along village paths offering an opportunity of first-hand interactions with the local population, vibrant trading centers and farmlands.