Lake Mutanda is located in south-western Uganda, in Kisoro District, at the foot of the Virunga volcano chain, which stretches from Uganda to the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda.

While at Lake Mutanda, one can have a clear view of the most commonly known volcanoes, which include Muhabura, Sabinyo, and Gahinga, shared by the three East African countries.

A dive into the fresh waters of Lake Mutanda for a swim is a good way to start everyone’s tour on this lake because its water is free from bilharzia and crocodiles.

The lake offers a wide range of tourism activities, which include hiking, ziplining, cultural experiences, dugout canoe rides, boat cruises, otter viewing, island visits, and many others.

A boat ride on Lake Mutanda is such an amazing experience that one should not miss on their trip to Uganda. This lake also acts as a base for gorilla trekking because it’s near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National Park.

Lake Mutanda features 15 beautiful islands, most popular for their commanding beauty. They provide a vintage point for spectacular views of the lake and its surroundings.

The most significant island worth exploring is Mutanda Island, inhabited by the Abagesera clan. The clan has a church built on top of the island, and local worshipers from the mainland gather there for prayers.

Punishment Island is also one that should be visited while at Lake Mutanda because of its dark history. Up until the 20th century, the islands called Akampena (Punishment Island) on Lakes Bunyonyi and Mutanda were set aside as death traps for unmarried girls who got themselves pregnant. This act was meant to discourage premarital relations at an early age. The girls were left to die of starvation or drown if they attempted to swim back to shore. Sometimes their salvation came in the form of poor young bachelors looking to find dowry-free wives.

Take a trip today to south-western Uganda and enjoy the beauty and nature of Lake Mutanda.