Lake Mutanda is a stunningly beautiful lake located in southwestern Uganda. It is situated at an altitude of 1,800 meters above sea level and covers an area of about 18 square kilometers. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

One of the most popular activities to do at Lake Mutanda is to take a boat ride on the lake. Visitors can hire a local fisherman to take them out on the water and enjoy the serene surroundings. The lake is also home to a variety of fish species, including tilapia and Nile perch, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. The area around Lake Mutanda is also home to several gorilla trekking tours, as it is located close to both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These parks are home to some of the last remaining mountain gorillas in the world, and visitors can go on guided treks to observe these incredible animals in their natural habitat. In addition to gorilla trekking, visitors to Lake Mutanda can also go on nature walks and hikes in the surrounding hills. There are several trails that lead through the lush green forests, providing visitors with an opportunity to observe a variety of bird species and other wildlife. There are several activities that visitors can engage in at Lake Mutanda, which is located in southwestern Uganda. Some of the most amazing activities these visitors engage in are;

Canoeing and Kayaking:

One of the most popular activities on Lake Mutanda is canoeing and kayaking. Visitors can rent canoes or kayaks from local operators and paddle around the lake, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains. This is a great way to explore the lake and get some exercise at the same time.  

Boat cruise / Tour:

A boat cruise on lake Mutanda is a 1 or 2 hrs memorable experience where travelers get to closely explore and feel the beauty of this lake. On this boat cruise, visitors are given a guided tour of Lake Mutanda and are opened up to so many mysteries while they learn about its cultural history, the 15 islands, and its formation. The boat ride is by either a motorized boat, or a locally made canoe which visitors enjoy most.  

Hiking:

The hills and mountains surrounding Lake Mutanda offer some excellent hiking opportunities. Visitors can explore the various trails that wind through the hills, taking in the beautiful scenery along the way. Some popular hiking destinations include Mount Muhavura, Mount Sabinyo, and Mount Gahinga.  

Bird Watching:

Lake Mutanda is home to a wide variety of bird species, making it a popular destination for bird watchers. Visitors can spot a range of birds, including African fish eagles, kingfishers, herons, and more.  

Mountain gorilla trekking: 

Mountain Gorilla trekking can be done in Bwindi impenetrable National park which is 1.5 to 2 hrs away from lake Mutanda. Most travelers combine Gorilla trekking with a visit to Lake Mutanda is a famous activity that draws so many tourists every year. A visit to lake Mutanda should be complemented by a visit to the great Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for Gorilla trekking experience. Other activities that visitors can enjoy at Lake Mutanda include fishing, swimming, Island tours, and visiting nearby villages to learn more about local culture and traditions.  Lake Mutanda is a beautiful destination that offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.  

Where to stay when you visit Lake Mutanda.

One of the most popular accommodation options in Lake Mutanda is the Mutanda Lake Resort. This resort offers comfortable and spacious cottages that are equipped with all modern amenities such as en-suite bathrooms, hot water, and electricity. The resort also has a restaurant that serves delicious local and international cuisine, a bar, and a lounge area where guests can relax and enjoy the stunning views of the lake. Another great option for accommodation in Lake Mutanda is the Chameleon Hill Lodge. This lodge is situated on a hill overlooking the lake, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The lodge has ten uniquely designed cottages that are equipped with all modern amenities such as en-suite bathrooms, hot water, and electricity. The lodge also has a restaurant that serves delicious local and international cuisine, a bar, and a lounge area where guests can relax and enjoy the stunning views of the lake. For those who are looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are several guesthouses and campsites available in and around Lake Mutanda. One such guesthouse is the Amasiko Homestay, which offers basic but comfortable rooms at an affordable price. The guesthouse also has a restaurant that serves local cuisine.  

How to get to lake Mutanda

By Air: To get to Lake Mutanda by air from EBB (Entebbe International Airport), you can take a domestic flight to Kisoro Airstrip, which is the nearest airport to the lake. Several airlines operate flights from Entebbe to Kisoro, including Aerolink Uganda and Eagle Air. Once you arrive at Kisoro Airstrip, you can hire a taxi or take a public bus to Lake Mutanda, which is approximately 20 kilometers away. The journey takes around 30 minutes by road. BY ROAD: To get to Lake Mutanda by road from Entebbe or Kampala, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to Kisoro, which is approximately 460 km southwest of Kampala. The journey from Kampala to Kisoro takes about 9-10 hours depending on the mode of transport and traffic conditions. Once you reach Kisoro, Lake Mutanda is only 20 km away and can be reached by taking a taxi or boda-boda (motorcycle taxi). The journey from Kisoro to Lake Mutanda takes about 30 minutes It’s worth noting that the road to Lake Mutanda can be bumpy and difficult to navigate, especially during the rainy season. Therefore, it’s recommended to hire a four-wheel-drive vehicle with an experienced driver to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Overall, Lake Mutanda is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Uganda. Its stunning natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and proximity to gorilla trekking tours make it an ideal location for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.  You can book your Safaris to Uganda through Jewel Safaris one of the most experienced tour operator in Uganda. They specialize in East African safaris and make customized packages that are pocket friendly.