Lake Mutanda is located in the mountainous region of Kisoro District in southwest Uganda. It is a little-known gem, surrounded by beautiful highlands covered in greenery. The lake is surrounded by views of large highlands with green vegetation, plantations, and terraced crops along the slopes. Its fresh, clear water has at least fifteen islands covered with trees and plants.
The peaks of the Virunga Mountain Volcanoes provide a dramatic backdrop to the landscape. Uganda shares three of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountain Range, which extends across the borders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The three volcanoes within Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are Mount Muhavura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo. These mountains rise over Lake Mutanda, with white clouds moving across their peaks.
In the morning, thick mist covers the mountains, creating a mystical view over the lake.
Only one of Lake Mutanda’s fifteen islands is inhabited by people. A few islands have been cleared for tree plantations and farming, but most are covered with wild vegetation and are home to wildlife.
Mutanda Island, the largest island, is named after the lake. It is home to the local Abagesera clan, who grow crops such as sugarcane, bananas, and peas. Trees and plants cover a large part of the island.
A church was built on top of the island, and local worshippers from the mainland use canoes to attend services there.
Two islands are known as the Punishment Islands because they were once used to abandon prisoners and social outcasts. Criminals, elderly people without caregivers, and unmarried pregnant girls were taken to these islands and left there.
Some were killed and left behind. Skeletal remains can still be found in caves on the islands. The local people believe these islands are haunted, so no one dares to go there.
Another island, Python Island, is home to pythons. However, it is rare to see them.
Wildlife in Lake Mutanda and the Islands
Because of the high altitude and cold weather, which are not suitable for many species, there are not many birds in this area. Some of the common birds include sunbirds, Pied and Malachite Kingfishers, Pin-tailed Whydahs, and Great Cormorants.
The lake has only a few fish species, about three in total, including catfish and mudfish. However, otters are commonly seen in the lake.
Some islands are home to pythons, with many reported to be on Python Island.
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