Lake Mulehe is a beautiful lake in southwestern Uganda. Uganda is famously known for Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest freshwater lake. Other travelers may know Uganda for Lake Bunyonyi, the second deepest lake in Africa after Lake Tanganyika. There are several Rift Valley lakes in Uganda, such as Lake Albert, Lake George, and Lake Edward, among others. Uganda also boasts numerous craters and crater lakes nestled in the western hills. The Crater Lake region alone has over 80 crater lakes, some of which are yet to be discovered by the world.
When tourists think of the crater lakes in western Uganda, they often consider Lake Mutanda, Lake Nyamunuka, Ndali-Kasenda craters, Lake Kyaninga, and many others. Today, we explore Lake Mulehe. Positioned in Kisoro along the Kisoro-Bwindi Rushaga gorilla region route, Lake Mulehe is a spectacular lake surrounded by stunning terraces farmed by local people who live in the neighboring hills.
This lake offers an ideal weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city and a perfect relaxation spot after the challenging gorilla trekking experience or hiking in the Virunga mountain ranges of Mgahinga National Park. Its geographical location in Kisoro makes it easily accessible to tourists visiting Mgahinga National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, and even Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
Relax with a motorized boat cruise or a dugout canoe trek on Lake Mulehe. Tourists can embark on early morning, lunchtime, and sunset cruises that offer spectacular views of the volcanic ranges, aquatic flora and fauna, and airborne aquatic birds. It’s an experience that makes the day worthwhile.
For water enthusiasts, swimming is safe in Lake Mulehe as it is free from Bilharzia and dangerous aquatic animals such as crocodiles, hippos, and snakes. Sunbathing is also popular here as tourists watch the sunset over the Virunga ranges or the sunrise over the smoky Kigezi highlands.
Visitors to Lake Mulehe often take community walks to explore the lives of the local Bakiga people. They visit local markets and neighboring homesteads, engaging in activities that provide insights into the unique culture and way of life. Enjoy traditional African music, dance, and taste their local brew, “Omuramba.” Travelers can also purchase handmade crafts as souvenirs to take back home.
Fishing on Lake Mulehe is a must for water sports enthusiasts. Although primarily a local activity, tourists can also try their hand at fishing in this beautiful lake. Hop on a dugout canoe and fish the local way to catch one of the various fish species found in the lake for dinner. Nothing beats the taste of self-caught fish.
For travelers on gorilla tours to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park for gorilla and golden monkey treks, or those hiking up the Virunga volcanoes, Lake Mulehe is the ideal place to relax after thrilling adventures.
While most trips to southwestern Uganda typically conclude with visits to Lake Bunyonyi or Lake Mutanda after gorilla trekking or hiking safaris, Lake Mulehe offers a perfect way to end the journey before heading back to Kampala or Kigali for the flight home.
