Around Fort Portal

The city of Fort Portal is a perfect starting point to explore the enchanting nature of the surroundings! We are on the move for two days: to the many crater lakes and into the mysterious swamp area of Bigodi.

Currently, there is an election campaign happening in Uganda, and everything is plastered with posters. The Prime Minister Museveni has been in power continuously since 1986. While other parties are also active and visible in the country, significant pressure is exerted on opposition members, making elections seem unfair.

 

For our first excursion, we meet with the friendly guide Robert at the shore of Lake Nkuruba. There is a beautifully set up lodge that is suitable for overnight stays. Additionally, the area is a nature reserve that attracts many monkeys. They roam around and climb in the trees: black-and-white Colobus, red-tailed monkeys, and Vervet monkeys.

We hike together through the lush nature, passing small villages and banana plantations. Time and again, we are treated to spectacular views of crater lakes. The Nyinambuga Lake is one of the largest, and its photo appears on Uganda's 20,000 shilling banknote.

 

Back in Fort Portal, we first recharge with some food: traditionally, there is Matoke (a mash made from green cooking bananas) with beans.

 

On the second day, we visit a completely different ecosystem: the Bigodi Wetlands, a protected wetland on the edge of Kibale National Park. Together with a local guide and in rubber boots, we started the tour on wooden walkways and narrow paths through the swamp area.

Right from the start, we encounter numerous monkeys, including red-tailed monkeys and vervet monkeys. They climb in the trees and keep their distance.

Only the baboons approach us curiously, but also cautiously. Especially the younger animals want to know what’s going on... The adult baboons, however, are not to be trifled with! If you get too close, they quickly become irritated and show threatening gestures.

 

The swamp itself is densely overgrown and resembles a jungle: waterways, thick papyrus, tall trees – and the constant rustling in the branches above us.

 

We also see some birds, such as the Great Blue Turaco. Several specimens of this giant turaco are frolicking high above us in the trees. They are very fascinating birds, here's a sample image...

We also observe the Grey Crowned Crane, the national bird of Uganda, in the treetops.

The region around Fort Portal is truly an excellent area for nature lovers 🤩 The combination of the vast, open crater landscape and the dense, wild swamp area thrilled us.Fort Portal offers a different side of Uganda – green, tranquil, and full of hidden treasures.

Next, we will travel to the impressive Murchison Falls National Park.