Lake Nkuruba and Surrounds

the most attractive crater lake in the World?

Lonely Planet "Africa" claim this to be one of the most beautiful crater lakes in the World.

Having witnessed first-hand the three crater lakes of Keli Mutu on Flores, Indonesia, this is somewhat fanciful, but nonetheless it is a beautiful spot. Surrounded by primary forest, this small lake is superb, and both the bird-life and monkey colonies are rich.


Is there a more attractive primate than the Colobus monkey?

Vervet monkeys generally live in peace with the Colobus

There are two accommodation options, both somewhat cheekily called Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve and Community Camp-site. I’m staying at the original (and signposted as such). With bandas ranging from Ush16,000 to USh 50,000, i opt for the beautiful lakeside cottage for USh 30,000. It is picture perfect and i am amazed why this is not everyone’s first choice option. Camping is also available.

The cottage offers the only direct views of the lake, and the night sounds are immense. With fig trees behind the cottage, monkeys, both Colobus and Vervets will come and hang out, as well as drop twigs and other debris on the corrugated iron roof to wake you in the morning.

the lakeside cottage - the choicest accommodation option on Lake Nkuruba

They offer a variety of activities including, bike rents, motorcycle rides, bird-watching, trips to Bigodi and Kinigami swamps, village tours, waterfall hike and the “Top of the World.”

local kids

happy banana seller

The food is basic but reasonably priced at about USh6,500, but to be honest, only the guacamole tastes good. Fortunately i have brought a few supplies along with me from Fort Portal. Further supplies can be picked up from nearby Rwaihumba.

Jim at the nearby waterfall

Conditions are pretty basic, with solar electricity only available in the restaurant and just one set of shared toilets.

evening light

Lake Nkuruba lies some 25kms from Fort Portal and can be reached via shared taxi for USh4,000 or boda-boda for USh7,000.

The surrounding countryside is superb. Out past Rwaihumba are three more crater lakes including N’Dali lake and i spend much of my time hiking alone.

farm hands

Further afield is Kibale National Park where chimpanzees can be tracked, but i hold off for now, hoping to visit these near Murchison Falls when i head north.