Located in the hilly terrain of Kisoro District Southwest of Uganda, Lake Mutanda is a little-known gem. It is one of Africa's most beautiful lakes, set in a striking setting of expansive, lush, and verdant mountains.
Composed of at least 15 islands with thick trees and plants filled with fresh-clear water. The lake is surrounded by stunning landscape, including expansive highlands covered with greenery, plantations and terraced crops along the slopes. The beautiful cloud-covered peaks of the Virunga Mountain Volcanoes serve as the perfect backdrop to this wonderful sight. Three of the eight major volcanoes in the Virunga Mountain Range, which straddles the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are shared by Uganda.
The three mountains that make up Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are Mt. Muhavura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo. These are clearly seen, rising in the distance over Lake Mutanda and the vast hills, with white clouds drifting across their summits. Awe-inspiring panorama is created over Lake Mutanda in the morning when dense clouds of mist cover the verdant mountains.
Only one of the 15 islands in Lake Mutanda is inhabited by a local people, and only a few have been able to support plantations of crops and trees. A few of the other islands are uninhabited and covered in overgrown vegetation with a diverse species.
Mutanda Island, which bears the lake's name, is the largest island. The "Abagesera" tribe inhabits this island. They cultivate crops like sugar cane, bananas and peas. This island is mostly covered in trees and bushes. Local worshipers from the mainland canoe to the island to attend services at the church that has been built on top of it.
Two islands were given the name Punishment Islands because they were used as punishment dumps for criminals and other outcasts of society. Unwanted people from the area would be tied up and sent to the island, where they would be left to die, along with unmarried pregnant girls, the elderly who had no one to care for them, thieves and other criminals. On these islands, other people would be slain and dumped. On the islands, there are caves containing skeletal remains. Because it is thought that these two islands are haunted by the dead, the locals are afraid of them and don't even venture upon them.
The Python Island, which is home to pythons, is another fascinating island. However, python sightings are uncommon.
Due to the area's high elevation and cold weather, which is adverse to many species, there aren't many birds to be found here. Sunbirds, the Great Cormorant, the Pied and Malachite Kingfisher and others are some of the common birds. Otters frequent the lake, although there are just a few fish species like Cat & Mad Fish.
For a chance to see these giant snakes, go to the Python Island. A hot day is a wonderful time to catch them. In Lake Mutanda, the pythons mostly devour fish and other aquatic animals. Visit the punishment islands as well as the caves that contain the victims' skeleton remains. Visit the local village and church while visiting Mutanda Island, and bring some donations for the residents. The island provides a vantage point from which to enjoy stunning lake views.
Take a ride on the calm waters, feel the peace and quiet, travel among the islands, and take in the breathtaking scenery while watching some animals, like birds and otters. It offers such a relaxing experience only witnessed on Lake Mutanda.
You can only get amazing spots for stunning views of Mutanda and the volcanoes by hiking to and around the lake.
The mountainous terrain surrounding Lake Mutanda is pretty thrilling to bike on with nice mountain bikes.
When to visit Lake Mutanda?
Uganda has a tropical climate, which means that it is always warm and does not experience any significant seasonal fluctuations. Anyone can travel to Lake Mutanda at any time of the year.
