Lake Mutanda Travel Guide: Top Sights in Uganda, Tours & Travel

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Lake Mutanda- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Natural Scenery; Uganda; 5 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 4 hours

Lake Mutanda is a scenic freshwater lake located in Uganda's Kisoro District, about 20 kilometers north of Kisoro town and roughly 1,800 meters above sea level. Set in the shadow of the Virunga Mountains—Mount Muhabura, Mount Sabinyo, and Mount Gahinga—it offers panoramic views of volcanic peaks and a network of small islands scattered across its surface. The lake is part of a larger watershed system, drained by the Rutshuru River, which flows northward into Lake Edward. It is the second-largest lake in southwestern Uganda and sits within a transitional zone between cultivated farmland, papyrus swamps, and montane forest. The area around Lake Mutanda is known for its high biodiversity and proximity to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, home to mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. The lake's shores and islands host wetland and forest habitats that support species such as the African clawless otter, various reptiles, and numerous bird species including kingfishers, ibises, and the crested crane. With its blend of volcanic geology, freshwater ecosystems, and nearby primate conservation efforts, Lake Mutanda provides a unique vantage point for understanding the ecological complexity of Uganda's southwestern highlands.

Operators offering tours in Uganda

Attractions in Uganda

Bwindi

Murchison Falls National Park

4.8

Kidepo Valley National Park

4.6

Kibale National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park

4.4

Lake Bunyonyi

4.2

Sipi Falls

4.2

Kampala

Reviews of Lake Mutanda

Joshua Sserwadda

5
Reviewed: 2024-01-04

It was good experience. Nice view and cool breeze. The only problem are the roads that lead there. You can't risk your shocks going there in a small car. You need those big stick shift vehicles and trusted 4wheels. I really felt the bumps at heart.
David Bakeine

5
Reviewed: 2022-06-29

Have lately discovered that Lake Mutanda is one of the less visited yet the most diverse lake in Uganda. With colorful birds like the Ross's Turaco, with the Giant Kingfisher, Malachite, pygmy, and Pied Kingfishers, with a resident Bat colony that's preyed on by the resident African Fish Eagle, Palmnut vulture and the Black kite, from the high altitude plants such as the Giant Lobelia, a 2 hour boat trip on Lake Mutanda must be on your bucket list. To crown the tour, visit the caves to see the remains of people who lived 700 years ago! Visit spectacular islands including the historic Gahiza Island Retreat, formerly a punishment Island! You will be fascinated.
Apollo Kwesiga Kamugisha

5
Reviewed: 2022-05-01

Such a beautiful scenery.... Esp for honeymooners
KIMULI FAIZO

5
Reviewed: 2022-04-07

FAIZO TOURS AND CAR RENTALS UGANDA, we do all car rental services at the cheap price. We have 4x4 cars good for all types of the road in Uganda like:- Land cruisers, Toyota Super Custom, Rav4 e.t.c. For bookings, please WhatsApp:- +256783687261 or +256760176150(call)
Edison N

5
Reviewed: 2017-11-21

Spectacular lava-dammed lake located in Kisoro district. Perfect location for canoeing after trekking the gorillas in Bwindi or Mgahinga parks