Mutanda Lake Resort – All you need to Know

Mutanda Lake Resort is located on a peninsula in Lake Mutanda, surrounded by the stunning Virunga Mountains. It is known for its breathtaking views and offers a peaceful and beautiful escape. This resort is a great place for people who want to track gorillas, relax by the lake, hike volcanoes, watch birds, or simply enjoy nature.

Price Range: USD 155 — USD 315 per person per night (sharing)

The resort has a unique location on a peninsula in Lake Mutanda, providing amazing views of the Virunga Volcanoes and the misty lake. It is a great place for guests who want to trek gorillas in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, or explore the remote countryside of southwestern Uganda. The resort is also perfect for those looking to enjoy a quiet holiday away from the busy world.

Mutanda Lake Resort is positioned near the Virunga Mountains, giving it beautiful views, warm tropical weather, and a relaxing atmosphere. Watching the sunset by the lake and enjoying the peaceful environment are some of the highlights of staying here. It’s an ideal place for those seeking tranquility in nature.

The resort has 13 well-designed cottages, each built on wooden platforms and spread out along the beach. These cottages offer stunning views of both the lake and the mountains. The rooms are decorated with artistic touches and elegant fabrics. The main area has a Swiss-style design with an African touch, and features a cozy brick-worm fireplace. This is a great spot for evening chats with other guests. You can enjoy your meals in the main area or in the comfort of your room.

However, one downside is that Mutanda Lake Resort is a bit far from the starting points for gorilla trekking in Nkuringo, Rushaga, and Mgahinga. Guests need to wake up early and drive about an hour to reach the trekking briefing, which starts at 7:30 am.

Room Rates (per night)

• Standard Room
  Bed & Breakfast:
  • Single Room: $130
  • Double/Twin Room: $185
  • Max 2 persons

  Meals:

  • Lunch: $12 per person
  • Dinner: $18 per person
• Family Room
  Bed & Breakfast:
  • Double/Twin Room: $185
  • Extra Adult: $70
  • Extra Child (6-14 years): $30
  • Extra Child (0-5 years): Free

  Meals:

  • Lunch: $12 per person
  • Dinner: $18 per person
• Luxury Room
  Bed & Breakfast:
  • Single Room: $200
  • Double/Twin Room: $260
  • Extra Adult: $90
  • Extra Child (6-14 years): $50
  • Extra Child (0-5 years): Free
  • Max 4 persons

  Meals:

  • Lunch: $12 per person
  • Dinner: $18 per person

Activities at Lake Mutanda

Lake Mutanda offers a range of exciting and peaceful activities for visitors. Whether you want to enjoy nature, explore the lake’s islands, or simply relax by the water, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the experiences you can enjoy around the lake.

Boat Rides and Canoe Tours

A boat ride on Lake Mutanda is always a rewarding experience. You can choose to ride in a traditional canoe or a motorboat, depending on your preference. The calm waters and beautiful surroundings make for a peaceful experience. If you prefer something more active, you can help row the canoe, just like the local fishermen do.

For those who enjoy a more leisurely experience, the sunset boat ride is a wonderful way to relax and take in the stunning views of the lake and its many islands. The boats can be rented for different lengths of time, ranging from one to two hours, and you can enjoy a guided tour as you cruise across the water. The guide will share interesting facts about the local area, the birds, and the wildlife that call Lake Mutanda home.

Exploring the Islands

Lake Mutanda is home to several beautiful islands, and one of the best ways to explore them is by canoe or boat. Mutanda Island is the only island that is regularly visited, and it offers a unique opportunity to meet the local Abagesera people. While there, you can visit their school and church, interact with the children, and learn about their culture.

During the boat trip, you will also have the chance to visit Punishment Island, which has a dark history. This island was once used to exile unmarried pregnant women. It’s a fascinating spot with a powerful story to tell.

Golden Monkeys in Mgahinga National Park

If you’re interested in wildlife, you can take a trip to Mgahinga National Park, where you can see wild golden monkeys in their natural habitat. These monkeys are playful and easy to spot in the park’s bamboo forests. This experience is perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Swimming and Relaxation

For those who prefer a slower pace, Lake Mutanda is a great place to swim or simply relax at the dock. The peaceful environment encourages visitors to take their time, watch the ripples in the water, and enjoy the tranquillity of the lake. It’s a perfect spot for unwinding and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

Nature Walks

One of the best ways to explore the area around Lake Mutanda is on foot. You can take a nature walk with a guide, starting with a short boat or canoe ride across the lake. The walk will take you along the swamp and up into the hills, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding landscape. This walk is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area and learn more about the local flora and fauna.

The guided nature walk lasts about three hours and provides a peaceful and informative experience. You’ll have the chance to see various plants and animals, and your guide will share information about the area’s ecosystems.

Community Walks

For a cultural experience, you can take a guided community walk in the Mukozi area. This walk includes a short boat or canoe ride to reach the village, followed by visits to important community sites. Depending on the day of the week, you may visit a local craft maker, meet a medicine man, or explore a local school or church. The community walk takes around two to three hours and offers a deeper understanding of the local culture and way of life.

The walk allows you to interact with the villagers and learn about their traditions, beliefs, and daily activities. This is a perfect opportunity to connect with the local people and experience their unique culture.

Lake Mulehe Hike

For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the Lake Mulehe hike is a great option. This hike combines a boat or canoe ride across Lake Mutanda with a scenic walk around the area. Along the way, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of both Lake Mutanda and Lake Mulehe. You will also meet local fishermen, a medicine man, and have the chance to sample a traditional Ugandan lunch.

The hike takes about six hours in total and is mostly uphill but not too challenging. It’s a great way to stay active while exploring the beautiful surroundings of the lake and learning about the local communities.

Mutanda Island Trip

A visit to Mutanda Island is another great way to experience the area. You can take a boat or canoe ride to the island and explore its unique culture. The Abagesera people are welcoming, and you’ll have the chance to interact with them, visit their school and church, and learn about their way of life. The boat ride to the island offers beautiful views of the lake and its surroundings.

Depending on your preference, you can choose to travel by canoe with a local captain or by motorboat. The canoe ride takes about three and a half to four hours, while the motorboat ride lasts around three hours. The motorboat trip is quicker but still offers a relaxing and scenic experience.

Bird Watching

Lake Mutanda is also a great destination for bird lovers. You can take an early morning birding tour, which begins at 6:45 AM. The tour starts with a motorboat ride across the lake, followed by a walk with a birding guide. The tour lasts about two hours, and during this time, you will spot a variety of bird species. The guide will help you identify the different birds and tell you interesting facts about them.

The early bird tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts who want to experience the lake at its quietest and most peaceful time of day.