Discover the natural beauty of Western Uganda on a full-day Crater Lakes Tour from Fort Portal, exploring volcanic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and hidden waterfalls.
This scenic adventure through the Fort Portal region unveils the breathtaking beauty of Uganda’s crater lakes, forested hills, and cultural landscapes. Your journey begins with a morning departure from your hotel in Fort Portal, heading just 11 kilometers to Lake Nkuruba, a serene, forest-fringed volcanic lake teeming with primates and birdlife.
At Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve, there are excellent opportunities to observe four species of monkeys—including the acrobatic Black-and-White Colobus, Red Colobus, Red-Tailed Monkeys, and playful Vervet Monkeys—within their natural forest habitat. Nature trails wind through the reserve, offering a peaceful walking experience under the forest canopy.
The tour continues with a scenic hike to the “Top of the World” viewpoint, one of the region’s most iconic panoramic spots. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of three distinct crater lakes, the lush canopy of Kibale National Park, the Rwenzori foothills, Queen Elizabeth National Park in the distance, and the urban landscape of Fort Portal City.
After a break to soak in the scenery, the experience continues south of Fort Portal to explore more volcanic crater lakes—each uniquely shaped and surrounded by vibrant green vegetation and terraced hills. Some lakes offer safe swimming opportunities, perfect for a refreshing dip in nature.
The day concludes with a rewarding hike down to Mahoma Waterfalls, a pristine cascade nestled in the rainforest and fed by glacial waters from the Rwenzori Mountains, Africa’s third highest mountain range. The trail to the waterfall winds through thick vegetation and offers an authentic feel of Uganda’s rich montane environment.
Tour Highlights
- Visit to Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve with primate viewing
- Guided nature walk through tropical forest trails
- Hike to the Top of the World Viewpoint with stunning landscapes
- Exploration of multiple crater lakes south of Fort Portal
- Optional swimming in safe crater lakes
- Forest walk to Mahoma Waterfalls, fed by glacial waters
- Sightseeing views of Rwenzori Mountains, Kibale National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park
