Kabaka’s Lake | Uganda’s Largest Manmade Lake

Kabaka’s Lake | Uganda’s Largest Manmade Lake: it was constructed in 1880 by the 52 tribes of Buganda under the orders of “Kabaka Mwanga II” who was the king by then. This Lake is located in  Kampala City, in Rubaga division in Ndeeba. It is between the ring road and the Nabunga road and covers over 2 km2with a depth of about 200 feet.

Why the Lake was constructed

Though most of the people obeyed the king, the parish chiefs, prince and princesses refused to adhere to the command. The king was annoyed when he heard of this so he went and joined his people to dig. However, the action embarrassed the royals compelling them to join the dig. The Kabaka wanted the lake to be a channel connecting to Lake Victoria. This was for easy access to his other palace built in Mulungu hill by his father Kabaka Muteesa II before his death. Besides, he also wanted it to act as an escape corridor during the British armed conflicts in Buganda.

The Kabaka was a rather callous and notorious king; he wanted to be the only leader the civilians followed. When he heard that there were Baganda (Uganda Martyrs) worshiping a different King called God, he had them killed. This stirred up religious wars in Buganda that abruptly interrupted the construction before the lake was connected to Munyonyo. Besides, the environment around the lake has magnificent views with frequent surrounding air. It has also got two small islands which have green vegetation and trees which are home to bird nests creating a beautiful scenery. 

What to do at Kabaka’s Lake
Explore the Kabaka’s palace

The Lake is adjacent to the Kabaka’s Palace also known as “Twekobe” which means working together. The 52 clans of Buganda came together again to build the palace in 1922 during the reign of Kabaka Daudi Chwa. Though the palace was destroyed in 1966 due to civil wars in the region, the ruins are still a beautiful sight to explore. With the help of a guide, you can also visit the torture chambers. In fact, this is where former President Idi Amin would take his enemies.

Birding

The lake is a birding paradise with numerous bird species as most of them are seen floating on water. Some of these include; Egrets, Crested crane, King fishers, African jacana, Egyptian goose, African fish eagle, etc. It has also become a relaxing place for people who sit here as they listen to sounds of birds.

Canoeing

Here, you will enjoy a canoe ride operated by the locals. While on the canoe, you will enjoy the beautiful scenery of the islands. You will as well spot a number of bird species.

Fishing

Fishing is one of the most activities since the lake has got a number of fish species. These include; Nile tilapia, mud fish, lung fish, not to mention but a few. While here, you will interact with the fishermen about the different fishing methods. You will also be given a chance to participate in this activity depending on your interest.

How to get there

The lake is 5 kilometers from the Kampala Capital City situated in Ndeeba between Nabunga Road and Ring Road.

Samuka Island Excursion

Samuka Island Excursion : this is a unique island Nestled just off the shores of Jinja, Uganda about 9 kilometers from the Source of the Nile on Lake Victoria. It is situated on Kaivali Island in Jinja, taking only one and a half hours away from the crowd in Kampala. The island is a bird sanctuary with over 50 bird species both migratory and resident birds. You will have a chance to spot different bird species which include; white egrets, long tailed cormorants, pelicans, etc. It is also a booking site for different amusing activities that can be enjoy on water. These include; white water rafting, bungee jumping, Quad bike, half or full day fishing trips, kayaking, jet ski, tubing, etc.

The island is of peace, tranquility and serenity, not only does it offer perfect accommodation for both business and leisure discerning travelers but also a great place for a honeymoon getaway and a birder’s paradise. With a boat ride of nearly 20 minutes from the Source of the Nile. Laze in the gardens, swim in the outdoor pool or enjoy a meal or a cool drink at the restaurant. With a spectacular choice of relaxing in a secluded spot, the beautiful sceneries, natural beauty and the waterfront setting altogether to create your stay perfect and  unique to refresh the mind, body and delight the senses. So take a trip to replenish your energy and calm yourself.

How to get there

Boats to the island are available at Rumors, the gateway to Samuka Island. You can also get a boat from Masese and Jinja sailing club.

Ngamba Island Uganda | The Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Ngamba Island Uganda | The chimpanzee sanctuary : is nestled South-East of Entebbe City, near the Equator on Lake Victoria in Uganda. The sanctuary was established in October 1998 to care for both orphaned and rescued chimpanzees all over East Africa. Most of them were rescued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) from poachers and they are victims of illegal poaching for pet trade and bush meat.

Ngamba Island is 100 acres (40 ha) of the rainforest hosting over 49 orphaned chimpanzees surrounded by the peaceful waters of Lake Victoria. The Island also offers an excellent secondary forest that provides habitat for the chimpanzees and other wildlife species. These include; fish eagles, spiders, otters, fruit bats, monitor lizards, not to mention but a few. The Island harbors a wide variety of natural wildlife and provides a diversity of natural foods for the chimpanzees. 

What to do at the Island
Guided forest walk

Overnight visitors at Ngamba island chimpanzee sanctuary can participate in guided forest walks. Here, being part of the team involves going out with the chimpanzee infants. You give them support through holding them as they get introduced to the older individuals. They are also shown different parts of the forest thereby showing them that it is a safe and better place for them live. While here, you will be in the company of several chimpanzees ranging from 5-9 years.

Swimming

You will have a chance to swim before continuing to the mainland. If interested in swimming, the Equator is the right point and you will be allowed a couple of minutes to enjoy the waters before proceeding with the journey.

Sunset Cruises

This Island also offers exclusive sunset cruises for basically overnight guests. You will enjoy the unique view of fishermen casting their nets. You will wind down the day along with views of the beautiful sceneries of the sunset. The thrill comes from knowing that you are crossing the globe from the northern to southern hemisphere as you sip away on cold drinks in a stable of natural bliss.

Fishing

The Island offers either half or full day fishing excursions on Lake Victoria with UK certified fishing guides. If you love fish, then you won’t want to miss the opportunity to catch a Nile Perch on this iconic Lake.

Equator Experience

You will have a stopover at the Uganda- Equator to observe your boat being thrust by forces. This is  both on the North Pole and South Pole, Making it almost stationary in one place.

Day care Giver 

Here, you will get an exciting opportunity to not only view the chimpanzees feeding but to also participate in preparing their food and feeding them. You will also have a chance to assist the staff with any activities happening at the sanctuary. These include; preparing the holding areas for the chimpanzees, administrative work, medical checkups and over all monitoring of individual chimpanzees. This experience helps to raise funds for the sanctuary and your donation goes directly to the feeding of the chimpanzees living at the sanctuary.

 Volunteering programs

This place holds out volunteering programs to make a difference in the lives of the chimpanzees through volunteering in a variety of tasks like. Some of these include; preparing their food, feeding them, community work, behavior observation, cleaning and record keeping. Volunteering programs include;

  • Behavioral Observation: Volunteers will work alongside caregivers at the sanctuary, studying chimpanzee social dynamics around distribution and collecting data.
  • Behavioral Enrichment: Volunteers will be involved in creating permanent or temporary behavioral enrichment structures. They will as well as organize temporary challenges in order to further the behavioral enrichment of the chimpanzees.
  • Infrastructure improvements: Volunteers will help with whatever current enrichment projects are taking place during their placement. They may include; building picnic sites and shaded viewing shelters or putting up information boards to educate visitors.
  • Daily Caregiver Schedule: preparation of chimp foods, clean chimp holding facility, recording chimp data and health monitoring.
Viewing time
  • Morning viewing between 9.00am- 1.00pm
  • Afternoon viewing 12.45pm- 5.00pm
How to get to Ngamba Island

Using a speedboat travel from the dock in Entebbe to the Island is approximately 45-50 minutes. On the other hand, a traditional motorized canoe the commonest and cheapest takes nearly 90 minutes. 

Lake Mutanda Adventure | Uganda

Lake Mutanda Adventure | Uganda :  This lake is located in Kisoro district in the Southwestern Uganda, approximately 20 kilometers North of Kisoro town. The small fresh water lake is settled at the foot hills of the Virunga Mountain range. In addition, it is close to Bwindi Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park where you can do gorilla trekking. The lake is generally drained by River Rutshuru which flows northward to Lake Edward. It is also one of the most scenic lakes in Africa, located in a dramatic landscape of lush and verdant sprawling highlands. Lake Mutunda is dotted by at least 15 islands lush trees and shrubs. It is also ringed by beautiful scenery of sprawling highlands clad with green vegetation plantations and terraces of crops along the slopes.

The environment on the Islands within the lake and surrounding country side includes both forest and wetland habitats. They basically provide a haven for the endangered Mountain Gorillas and the Golden monkeys in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. In addition, it accommodates a variety of animal, plant, bird and avian species. Besides, the shores of the Lake supports several species of snakes, chameleons, monitor lizards, frogs and insects. Some of the mammals found in this lake include; the African clawless otter though history reveals that hippopotamus were also present in the area but were last seen in 1994.

Formation of Lake Mutanda

The lake forms the core of what has been entitled as the “Switzerland of Africa” and it’s not more than 45 metres deep. In fact, it was formed by flooded river valleys along-dammed by volcanic eruption. The lake also forms an ever-changing water scape punctuated by small forested Islands.

Islands on Lake Mutanda

The lake has got 15 Islands that are barely touched, with only one inhabited by the local community and few have been tiled to grow crops and trees. Some of these Islands include;

Mutanda Island

This is the biggest Island and it was named after the lake. It was inhibited by the “Abagesera” clan who grow crops such as peas, sugarcanes and bananas. However, the biggest part of this island is covered by trees and shrubs. At the top of the Island, a church was built and the local worshipers from the mainland canoe to attend the church services.

Punishment Island

Criminals and misfits of the society were taken and dumped here as a punishment. Criminals include; thieves and unmarried pregnant girls who were tied up and left to die at the islands. As a result, their skeletons remained in the caves. Local people fear this and no one walks on it due to the belief that it was haunted by the dead.

Python Island

This intriguing island is a home to pythons although they are rarely seen. A good time to catch these enormous snakes is on a hot day and they normally eat fish and other water species in the lake.

Activities carried out on this Lake 
Fishing

You and your guide will head to the fishing site where you will find the local fishermen who will guide you. Here, you will be able to see and also know about the different fish species caught here. Some of these include; mad fish, catfish, tilapia, not to mention but a few.

Cave exploration

This activity beckons the curious mind whereby you will learn the way the people thrived back in the days. One of the caves is the Garama Cave which was designed to support the Batwa who inhabited the caves for many years. You will also checkout the caves with the skeletal remains of the punished people from the punishment islands.

Birding

Lake Mutanda has got a number of bird species whereby you will be able to tell out different birds. These include; King Fishers, Kites, Ibis, Pelicans Grey crested crane, not to mention but a few.

Canoeing

This is one of the more relaxing activities as the water is known for being calm. Glide through the tranquil waters from island to island where you will even be able to see different bird species. Animals include; king fishers, water birds among others and animals like otters.

Hiking

This activity takes place around the lake and you will be able to access great points for wonderful views of the Lake and the volcanoes.

Mountain Biking

With good condition, mountain bikes feel the wind rushing past your face as you scramble down a steep slope. As the gravity pulls you back down the mountains towards the shores of Lake Mutanda. 

Tour to the Islands

This lake has generally got 15 Islands. Visit the Python Island for a chance to see the resident snakes. For the brave ones, you can visit the Punishment Islands which are used to house outcasts of the society and also contains skeletal remains. You can also decide to tour Mutanda Island to visit the local community and church. 

Best time to visit Lake Mutanda

The best time to visit this lake is during the dry seasons of June to September and December to February. In fact, hiking slopes around the lake is more challenging during the wet seasons.

How to get there

The lake is well accessed from Kisoro town and well positioned between Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. These parks a home to the endangered Mountain Gorillas in Uganda. 

Lake Victoria | Africa’s largest

Lake Victoria | Africa’s largest : Having an area of approximately 59,947km2 makes this lake the Africa’s largest by area.  It actually gets most of its water from rainfall and a number of tributaries specifically river Akagera in Rwanda and drained by River Nile whose source is in Jinja. The lake is generally shared by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Uganda taking 45% of the lake, Kenya 6% and finally Tanzania with 49%.

This lake was known as Nalubaale by the Ugandan locals who lived around which meant “home of the gods”. On the other hand, it was known as Nam Lowe by the Luo people which meant “body of endless water”. Although this lake had its name(S), European explorer John Speke decided to name it Lake Victoria after discovering the the source of River Nile. He named it after the Queen of England at that time and the name carried on and is still being used to identify this lake up to date.

Formation of Lake Victoria

The lake was formed when westward flowing rivers were dammed by an up thrown crustal block. In fact, this has raised several questions about the true source of River Nile and the rift valley formation that experts are still trying to figure out the answers to.

The fish species

This lake is believed to be approximately 400,000 years old and harbors around 1000 islands and populated with over 500 fish species. These include; the Cichlids, African catfish, Elephant fish, African tetras, Tilapia, Lungfish, etc. However, the introduction of Nile perch into the lake reduced the population of the other fish species to nearly extinction. Apart from the fish, a legendary creature was also believed to be a habitant in these waters. It was said to capture fishermen and their boats if they sailed too far into the lake. It was named “Lukwata” following its actions as the Luganda word “kukwata” literally meaning “to catch”. 

Did you know?
  • The lake gets 80% of its water from the rain.
  • It is the principle source of the Nile River which drains at about 15%.
  • It is one is one of the two places in East Africa where it’s possible to watch the sunset over water without being at the coast.
What to do on Lake Victoria
Fishing

Africa’s largest freshwater lake supports Africa’s largest inland fishery, with the main catch of fish being the Nile perch introduced in the lake in the 1950s. Besides, seining and Gill netting are the most prominent fishing methods used on this lake. Other methods include; the long lines, mid-water seines and many others.

Bird watching

Bird watching on Lake Victoria has greatly become a popular activity for both National and International bird watching tourists. This lake is enriched with a variety of bird species and these include; the African fish eagles. Pelicans, kingfishers, ducks, plovers, black crakes, marsh harriers, goose, jacanas, bee-eaters, sunbirds, etc. This activity will also take you around different islands of Lake Victoria like the Ngamba Island and Ssese Island. You will ride on an engine-powered canoe accompanied with an experienced local guide.

Boat rides or cruising

During this activity you will spot water animals like the Nile crocodiles, turtles, hippopotamus, spotted-necked otters and carnivorous monitor lizards. On the tree tops, you will be able to spot the African fish eagle perched majestically on the tree as well as other bird species.

Equator experiences

As a matter of fact, Lake Victoria touches the Equator in its northern side. It covers a total area of 68,800 square kilometers (km2) and with a maximum depth of 80m it is relatively shallow. Here, you will experience different experiments like the boating standing still in one position. More so, during swimming one feels different forces within the waters though this needs an experienced swimmer to compete with the forces.

Sunset cruises

This is generally the second largest fresh water lake in the world offering sunset cruises. In Uganda, these occur in Entebbe late afternoon towards the equator line or local islands on boat. While here, you will have an opportunity to view the sun over the horizon. You will also enjoy bird watching and as well as fishermen  as they cast their nets. This is basically done while enjoying the snacks and drinks provided on board.

Attractive sights along the lake include;
Ssese islands

These are a series of eighty-four islands in the northwestern part of Lake Victoria in Uganda the pearl of Africa. The islands adjoins with Kalangala district and they don’t have any territory on mainland.  The islands are also home to a variety of animal and bird species that are not easily spotted on the mainland. In fact, this leads to the growth of the tourism industry on the islands. The islands consists of activities like fishing, agriculture, livestock farming, forestry, tourism, etc.

Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

This island is a home to over 40 confiscated and orphaned chimpanzees, rescued from pet and bush meat trade. It is surrounded by peaceful waters of Lake Victoria in the south Eastern part near Koome district in Uganda. It was founded in 1998, offering 95 acres of natural forest where chimps roam freely carrying out their daily activities. Here, chimps have freedom to stay in the forest at night or return to nighttime enclosures where they build nests. They receive an evening meal, and their diet consists of supplying meals multiple times per day. 

Mabamba bay swamp

The swamp is generally a wetland situated in the northwest of Entebbe on Lake Victoria. It is also a birder’s destination to over 260 bird species. These include; the white winged terns, African fish eagle, rare shoebill, kingfishers, papyrus Gonolek. Weavers, sunbirds, bee-eaters, squacco heron, common cormorants, etc. In fact, these can be spotted using small engine-powered canoes along side experienced local guides.

Uganda Wildlife Educational Centre (UWEC)

Also known as the zoo nestled at the shores of Lake Victoria, it is a place where animals are caged for research and study purpose. It was established in 1951 as a sanctuary for wildlife which were be unable to fend themselves in the wild. It also offers the best introduction to Uganda’s flora and Fauna in National Parks. Residents include; lions, tigers, cheetahs, leopards, white rhinos, primates and bird species like the rare shoebill, etc.

Lake Kyoga | Uganda’s Shallow Lake

Lake Kyoga | Uganda’s shallow Lake :  is a polymictic basin located in the North of Lake Victoria in central Uganda. It is formed by the Victoria Nile in its middle course with an elevation of 1,033 metres and an area of 1720km2. It is shallow, with swampy, papyrus-reeded shores with masses of papyrus broken loose by strong winds. Besides, the Victoria Nile flows through the lake on its way from Lake Victoria to Lake Albert. In fact, the main inflow from Lake Victoria is regulated by the Nalubale Power Station in Jinja. Although Lake Kyoga is part of the African great lakes system, it is not itself considered a great lake.

Frequently asked questions
How deep is Lake Kyoga?

The lake reaches a depth of about 5.7 metres and the areas that are less than 3 metres deep are completely covered by water lilies. In additotion, much of the swampy shoreline is covered with papyrus and the invasive water hyacinth. The papyrus also forms floating Islands that drift between a number of small permanent Islands. Additionally, extensive wetlands fed by a complex system of streams and rivers surround the lakes.

What process led to the formation of the Lake?

Lake Kyoga was formed when a complex of the earth movement began in the Miocene which eventually resulted into faulting of the Western River. This caused the reversal of the previous East-West drainage. River Kafu which was once flowing westwards began to flow eastwards thus formation of “Lake Kyoga” due to ponding-back of the Kafu river.

Who discovered Lake Kyoga?

An Italian explorer “Carlo Piaggia” born on 4th January 1827 in the town of Badia Cantignano in Lucca and died on 17th January 1882. In Sudan, he discovered Lake Kyoga in 1876 which he named “Lake Capechi”. During his journey, he searched for a river passage between the Nile and the great lakes of East Africa.

Is Lake Kyoga a fresh water lake?

Lake Kyoga is a fresh water lake and it also has suds seen as Islands some for-bird habitats and others as fishermen villages.

Is the Lake in a Rift Valley?

The lake is also known as a “Rift Valley Lake” which makes it to be in a Rift Valley. It also has an extension of the Victoria Nile that flows through the lake. Besides, its way from Lake Victoria is controlled by the Nalubale Power Station in the Eastern Jinja.

Extensions of Lake Kyoga

The extensions of Lake Kyoga include; Lake Kwania, Lake Bisina and Lake Opeta. These “finger lakes” are surrounded by the swamp land during rainy seasons. They are all shallow, usually reaching a depth of only eight or nine metres. However, Lake Opeta forms a separate lake during dry seasons.

The three different Environmental zones of the Lake

The Lake Kyoga consists of three different Environmental Zones. These include; the open water, the water less than 3 metres and the swamp mainly papyrus which fringe the shoreline. The lake has a rich biodiversity and these include; Flora and Fauna such as Cypenus Papyrus, Hyppo Grass, Cattail, Water Lily, etc.

Fish species

It has got over 46 different fish species and some of them are endemic. However, the Nile Perch was introduced into this lake in the late 1950s to increase the fish population. The Nile Perch proliferation led almost complete elimination of many domestic fish species. These include; Synodontis Victoria, Engraulicypris Argentus, Barbus Kiogae, Tilapia Esculenta, Tilapia Variabilis. Clarias Mossambicus, Mormyrus Kanumme, Schilbe Mystus and the Haplochromis Macrodon.

Activities carried out on at the Lake 
Fishing

The lake boasts with over 46 fish species which makes fishing one of the main activities. This activity is basically done at the designated area. However, your required a fishing permit and make sure to carry your own fishing gear if you want to carry out this activity.

Cultivation

You will get a chance to see how the people in this area grow and improve the growth of different crops. Here, you will also be given a chance to take part in this activity. The activity is carried out to improve soil physical conditions, limit weed growth, improve water percolation, etc.

Livestock farming

Generally, people around the lake raise animals for use or even pleasure. These animals are commonly farmed for their meat, hides, wool as well as milk. While on your trip, you will be able to engage in this activity and witness how fun it is to rare cattle.

Birding

This place is also endowed with a number of bird species that can be sighted on the shores including aquatic, migratory and residential birds. These include; king fishers, African fish eagles, Yellow-billed ducks, Hamerkops, African jacana, etc. The lake has also got one of the endangered bird species that is found nowhere else in Uganda and that is the “Fox weaver bird”.

Boat cruising

While here, you will sail with scenic views and expect to see animals such as hippos, crocodiles among others. These are numerous in the lake and also famous bird species which include; waters birds, kingfishers not to mention a few.

Visit to the fish landing sites

It has got a number of fishing landing sites which are the busiest points at the lake. These include; Kibuye, Kikoyiro, Moone, Lwampanga, Kisonge and Namasale fish landing sites. While here, you will have an opportunity to see how fish is being offloaded from the boats and sun dried before it’s taken to the market.

Community visits

Tourists are able to go around the villages and learn about these people’s ways of living and how they survive on fishing. One can also have a chance to witness their traditional handmade crafts which can be bought as souvenirs.

How to get to Lake Kyoga

The place can be reached from Kampala to Soroti in the Eastern part of Uganda via Lale. Alternatively, one can cross with a boat from Nakasongola to Namasale.