When most people think of Uganda, they probably think of Sigourney Weaver playing the part of the naturalist Dian Fossey in the 1988 film Gorillas in the Mist, but there is much more to Uganda than gorillas, including the stunningly beautiful Lake Mutanda. Here we look at what there is to see if you visit Lake Mutanda, including the wildlife that is nearby.
Visiting Uganda
According to the Ugandan Ministries of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, over a million people a year visit Uganda. There is no doubt that the vast majority visit to see some of the amazing scenery and wildlife that Uganda has to offer, such as the mountain gorillas. However, if you are visiting Uganda, whether as a volunteer or a tourist, then Lake Mutanda should also be included in your list of places to visit.
As well as its own natural beauty, it is also close to the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Such is the interest in this part of Uganda that a tourist resort has been established at the lake where you can base yourself to explore.
The Wildlife
The lake is located at the foot of the Virunga Mountain Range and, as well as gorillas, supports a huge range of other wildlife, such as otters, snakes, chameleons and lizards and a wide variety of birds. The nearby Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the best place to spot gorillas. If you are planning to visit, then one of the best ways to see the mountain gorillas and the other wild animals who live here is to arrange a Uganda gorilla trekking.
According to the WWF, after many years of decline, the mountain gorilla population is increasing and currently stands at 880. This is mainly due to local conservation efforts as well as volunteers and tourists who visit, bringing help and money to protect this amazing species. Although the population is increasing, the gorillas in this part of Uganda still need to be protected, and visiting the area and putting money into the local economy can help with this.
Hopefully, this has shown that there is much more to Uganda than just gorillas, and the wide variety of flora and fauna that you can see make Lake Mutanda somewhere to add to your list of places to visit.