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OVERVIEW:
Mutanda Lake Resort is situated on a peninsula of the spectacular Lake Mutanda, between the town of Kisoro and the national parks of Mgahinga and Bwindi. This comfortable property boasts amazing views over the lake as far as the Virunga Mountains and is perfectly located for gorilla trekking…as well as having a great mix of other activities, including the popular golden monkeys.
ACCESS & LOCATION:
Mutanda is nestled among trees on a spur of land overlooking a pristine lake of the same name; it’s a breathtakingly beautiful location! The property is usually accessed via road transfer from Kisoro, a scenic route of approximately 45 minutes. Alternatively, it is a couple of hours’ drive from Kabale, and three and a half hours by road from Kigali in Rwanda. Depending on the rest of your itinerary, one of our specialists will advise on your best route to the lodge.
ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT MUTANDA LAKE RESORT:
The communal part of the property has the look of a Swiss chalet, but the interiors all have a distinctly African feel. Both the restaurant and bar have a homely ambience, with lovely views across the water. There is also a deck where you can get even closer to the scenery - 3 pontoons lead out into the water, complete with sun loungers, so you can jump straight off these decks into the (slightly chilly) water! They also have a rather special “dining boat” that’s perfect for meals out on the lake, or even just sundowners.
Each of the 18 guest cottages has superb views. These are positioned on wooden platforms, offering panoramic vistas from their private verandas. There’s good flexibility with room configurations: single, double, twin, triple, or family rooms all possible. The beds are very comfy and additional features include bedside tables and lighting, ample storage space, mosquito nets, and en-suite bathroom. The décor throughout incorporates African artifacts, such as sculptures and hand-made coloured bowls. 5 luxury rooms have recently been added too - all of these are very spacious, raised on wooden platforms, and have views of the volcanoes over the lake.
*Please be aware that we are unable to book this property for families with young children under the age of 6 years, for safety reasons relating to the balconies, decks and railings.
ACTIVITIES AT MUTANDA LAKE RESORT:
Being in such a great location bordering different parks, there’s a wide range of things to do at Ndali Lodge:
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Gorilla trekking
- Guests travel to Bwindi Impenetrable NP, just an hour’s drive away, to begin the adventure. Presently the park occupies 321 square kilometres of hills, cloaked in dense forest and intersected by a series of streams. The area is home to 320 mountain gorillas, including 11 habituated groups that can be tracked by visitors with the help of local guides. The experience of observing the gorillas in their territory is truly memorable! -
Golden monkeys
- Head into Mgahinga NP with a guide to find these mischievous monkeys and spend time watching these enthralling primates - but watch out for your packed lunch! -
Boating
- You can take boat trips to the islands of Kyangushu and Mutanda to meet local villagers and to enjoy a bit of walking. There are also kayaks, paddle boards and sailing (not for beginners). -
Hiking
- For more serious walkers there is the Batwa trail through mountain woodland in search of the Garama Cave, a landmark steeped in history. You can also hike in Sabinyo Gorge…and, if you are feeling particularly bold, climb Mount Sabinyo and Muhavura. -
Games and sports
- There's a badminton/volleyball court and a boules pit…if you still have some energy after a day with the great apes! -
Cultural tours
- After a short boat/canoe ride and a visit to Punishment Island, you can make a fascinating visit to the local community: with locations like the craft maker, medicine man, local school, and church.
*This property is unfenced and located in a wildlife area, so large and potentially dangerous animals do pass through. If you opt to stay here, always be alert when walking around the camp and request for a member of staff to escort you if you have any concerns. Any guest is escorted after dark as a matter of course.
