Lutembe Bay Wetland System- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Lutembe Bay Wetland System, located in Wakiso District at the northern edge of Lake Victoria's Murchison Bay, is a Ramsar-designated site recognized for its ecological significance. Covering 98 hectares, the wetland is separated from the main lake by a floating papyrus island and functions as a vital breeding ground for species such as lungfish and Clarias catfish. It supports over half of the global population of White-winged Black Terns during migration seasons and is home to several globally threatened bird species and endangered cichlid fish. With more than 100 butterfly species, including three classified as rare, Lutembe Bay is one of Uganda's most biologically diverse wetland habitats. Beyond its biodiversity, the wetland plays a crucial hydrological role in filtering pollutants from urban runoff and wastewater originating from Kampala, thus protecting the ecological balance of Murchison Bay. Despite its importance, the area faces growing pressure from horticultural expansion, industrial development, and land conversion. Conservation efforts are ongoing, led by NGOs and supported by the Uganda Wildlife Education Center, located just 5 kilometers away. For travelers interested in birdwatching, ecology, or wetland conservation, Lutembe Bay offers insight into the complex interactions between urban development and fragile freshwater ecosystems.