Uganda’s Nature Reserve and Ecotourism Paradise

A rare hidden and valuable treasure less or unexplored. A true definition of nature’s beauty.  Lake Nkuruba reserve is a beautiful ancient crater swallowed up in the forested surroundings. Lake Nkuruba is a crater lake hidden in the natural forested gem reserve. This place supports the breeding of the wildlife though deforestation is the dominant threat here

Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve & Community Campsite is a nature reserve and ecotourism project located in Uganda. It was established in 1991 to protect the ancient forest habitat surrounding a volcanic crater lake, known as Lake Nkuruba. 

Here are some key points about Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve:

Location: Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve is situated in Uganda and is known for its lush forest habitat and volcanic crater lake. It is located near Kibale National Park, which is famous for chimpanzee trekking.

Biodiversity: The reserve is rich in biodiversity and supports various species of birds and primates. Notable species include the Great Blue Turaco, black and white colobus monkeys, and the endangered Uganda red colobus.

Activities: Visitors to Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve can engage in a range of activities, including chimp trekking in nearby Kibale National Park, hiking in the Rwenzori Mountains, and birdwatching in the lush forest.

Accommodation: The reserve offers accommodation options, including camping under trees frequented by monkeys and a Lakeside Cottage with views of the picturesque lake.

Community Involvement: Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve & Community Campsite is an ecotourism project with a non-profit focus. The funds generated from visitors go back into supporting nature conservation and improving the livelihoods of the local community.

Day Visitor Entry Fees: To support the conservation efforts of the reserve, there is a small entry fee for day visitors. The fee varies for non-residents, residents, and East African visitors.

Guided Walks: The reserve offers guided walks through Nkuruba Forest, with opportunities to explore nearby attractions like viewpoints, waterfalls, and village markets.

Nearby Attractions: Lake Nkuruba also serves as a convenient starting point for exploring other nearby attractions in Uganda, such as Queen Elizabeth National Park (known for tree-climbing lions) and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (known for gorilla trekking).

Accommodation at Lake Nkuruba reserve is available at a friendly cost. For updates, contact Jewel safaris today.  The Hilltop camp is ideally the best spot for excellent views of the crater: F or the privacy conscious, secure the cottages here.

Location

Lake Nkuruba reserve is located 25km south of Fort portal town. The lake sits astride the stunningly magnificent beautiful landscapes of the Rwenzori Mountain ranges and Kibale forest national park.

Attractions At Lake Nkuruba Reserve

Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve & Community Campsite offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors who want to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and wildlife of the area. Here are some of the main attractions you can enjoy at Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve:

• Lake Nkuruba: The reserve is centred around Lake Nkuruba, a volcanic crater lake. The lake itself is a picturesque and tranquil spot, where you can relax, take in the scenery, or even go for a swim.
• Primate Viewing: Lake Nkuruba is home to various primates, including black and white colobus monkeys and the endangered Uganda red colobus. Visitors can often observe these primates in their natural habitat, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife photography.
• Birdwatching: The reserve is rich in birdlife, making it a great destination for birdwatchers. Species like the Great Blue Turaco and the Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill can be spotted in the lush forested areas.
• Chimpanzee Trekking: While Lake Nkuruba itself is not a location for chimpanzee trekking, it serves as a convenient base for visitors interested in trekking with chimpanzees in nearby Kibale National Park, which is renowned for its chimpanzee populations.
• Hiking: The reserve offers various hiking opportunities, including exploring the surrounding forested areas, visiting waterfalls like the Mahoma waterfall, and hiking to scenic viewpoints like the ‘Top of the World.’ The Rwenzori Mountains are also nearby for more extensive hiking adventures.
• Community Interaction: Lake Nkuruba is not just a nature reserve; it’s also a community project. You can interact with the local community and gain insights into their way of life. Visiting the Rwaihamba village market is one way to experience local culture.
• Wildlife-Rich Nature Reserve: The reserve itself is a wildlife-rich area, and even without venturing far, you can encounter various flora and fauna. Take a stroll through the reserve to appreciate its natural beauty.
• Camping: If you’re looking for a unique camping experience, the campsite offers the opportunity to camp under trees frequently visited by monkeys, allowing you to connect with nature up close.
• Lakeside Cottage: For those seeking more comfortable accommodations, the Lakeside Cottage provides a secluded and picturesque setting overlooking the lake.

Gateway to Nearby Attractions: Lake Nkuruba also serves as a starting point for exploring other nearby attractions in Uganda, such as Queen Elizabeth National Park for tree-climbing lions or Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking.

These attractions make Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve a versatile destination for nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, hikers, and those looking to support conservation and community development efforts in the region.

What to do Lake Nkuruba.

Visiting Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve & Community Campsite offers a variety of activities and experiences for nature enthusiasts and travelers looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and culture of the area.

Here’s a list of things you can do at Lake Nkuruba:

Nature Exploration: Take leisurely walks or hikes through the nature reserve to explore its lush forest, diverse flora, and fauna. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and take in the sights and sounds of the forest.

Primate Watching: Lake Nkuruba is home to various primate species, including black and white colobus monkeys and the endangered Uganda red colobus. Spend time observing and photographing these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

Birdwatching: The reserve is a paradise for birdwatchers. Keep your binoculars handy to spot a variety of bird species, including the Great Blue Turaco and the Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill.

Lake Activities: Relax by the tranquil Lake Nkuruba, take a swim, or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for unwinding and connecting with nature.

Chimpanzee Trekking: While Lake Nkuruba itself doesn’t offer chimpanzee trekking, it serves as a convenient base for arranging chimpanzee trekking adventures in nearby Kibale National Park, known for its chimpanzee populations.

Hiking: Explore the hiking trails within the reserve, which can lead you to scenic viewpoints like the ‘Top of the World‘ or the beautiful Mahoma waterfall. The nearby Rwenzori Mountains also offer excellent hiking opportunities.

Camping: If you enjoy camping, you can camp under the trees that are frequented by monkeys, providing a unique and immersive camping experience.

Lakeside Cottage: For those seeking more comfortable accommodations, the Lakeside Cottage offers a secluded and picturesque setting overlooking Lake Nkuruba.

Community Interaction: Engage with the local community to learn about their culture and way of life. Visiting the Rwaihamba village market is a great way to experience local culture and support the community.

Support Conservation: By staying at Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve & Community Campsite, you contribute to conservation efforts and the well-being of the local community, as the project is non-profit and funds generated from visitors go toward these goals.

Gateway to Nearby Attractions: Lake Nkuruba can also serve as a starting point for exploring other nearby attractions in Uganda, such as Queen Elizabeth National Park for tree-climbing lions or Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking.

Guided Walks: Take advantage of guided walks offered by the reserve’s tourist guides. These walks can lead you through the forest, to viewpoints, and other nearby attractions, providing informative and enjoyable experiences.

Whether you’re interested in wildlife viewing, hiking, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing in a natural setting, Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve & Community Campsite offers a range of activities to suit various interests and preferences.

There are several tours to this part of the world in Uganda, just engage the Jewel safaris team and you will be served with your best itinerary.

https://jewelsafaris.com/6-days-uganda-tour/

https://jewelsafaris.com/10-days-uganda-gorillachimpanzee-wildlife-safari/

https://jewelsafaris.com/4-days-gorilla-habituation-and-culture-safari/

https://jewelsafaris.com/5-days-kidepo-national-park-safari/