When it comes to natural wonders worth encountering during Uganda safaris, the south-western district of Kabale will never disappoint you. Besides being known as the “Switzerland of Africa” due to the hilly terrains, this district offers what other places in Uganda cannot offer. Therefore, the must-see attractions include;
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Tourism in Kabale district cannot go without mentioning Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the home to over 400 mountain gorillas. The southern sectors (Rushaga and Nkuringo) lie within this district and some of the gorilla families to track include Nkuringo family within Nkuringo sector, Nshongi, Mishaya, Bweza, Busingye and Kahungye families found in Rushaga sector. Interestingly, these two sectors are the only places in the whole world to enjoy the Gorilla Habituation Experience (to spend four hours with a gorilla family still undergoing habituation).
The ancient Nyakagyera Cave and Rock
This ancient Cave is found at only 14 kilometers and 35 minutes drive North of Kabale Town. The site was occupied by Stone Age man and its stones were used for killing their hunt and also used for feasting. It used to be a battle field between the Bakiga (native tribe of Kabale) and the other tribes such as the Batwa, Bahima and Banyarwanda hence making it a significant historical site worth exploring on Uganda safaris. Nyakagyera Cave is round 19 meters deep and 10 meters wide and currently remains empty with only shrubs at its entry points and a number of eucalyptus trees at the Top of the Hill.
Ihimba hot springs
The Ihimba hot springs are found at 5 miles South of Kabale Town and are always visited because of the healing powers they are believed to possess hence most of the Bakiga flock the area. One thing that is true about the attraction is the fact that it contains minerals that are effective in healing wounds and skin diseases.
Lake Bunyonyi
Lake Bunyonyi is one of the must-visit places in Uganda and is specifically found between Kabale and Kisoro districts. It is only 25 kilometers wide and its depth varies from 44 and 900 meters making it the second deepest Lake in the African. It is around 7 kilometers west of Kabale district.
One of the most outstanding facts about this Lake is that it is dotted with over 29 Islands including the popular Punishment Islands (locally known as Akampene), where girls who would get pregnant before marriage were abandoned to die.
Lake Bunyonyi is a paradise with interesting tourist activities such as swimming, bird watching, dugout canoeing, mountain biking, relaxing and chilling, nature walks, Island hopping, hiking through the hills of the area, visit to the home stays to experience typical Bakiga cultures.
In conclusion, Kabale district is one of the naturally endowed destinations in Uganda with interesting places such the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Bunyonyi, Ihimba hot springs, Nyakagyera Cave and Rock as well as the cultures of the people. A trip to this region will make your Uganda safari complete and memorable.