Lake & Waterfall · Near Fort Portal
Ndali-Kasenda Crater Lakes
A beautiful cluster of dozens of volcanic crater lakes, framed by tea estates and the Rwenzori Mountains.
How to get there
About 30 to 45 minutes by road from Fort Portal, near Kibale National Park.
What to find
Crater rim walks, swimming in some lakes, viewpoints, cycling and primates.
Overview
The Ndali-Kasenda crater field, south of Fort Portal, holds dozens of lakes in old volcanic craters, each surrounded by forest, farmland or tea plantations, with the Rwenzori Mountains on the horizon.
It's a wonderful area to walk or cycle between the crater rims. Some lakes are safe for swimming, and patches of forest hold black-and-white colobus and many birds.
Highlights
- The 'Top of the World' viewpoint over three crater lakes
- Lake Nkuruba and its colobus monkeys
- Swimming in selected lakes
- Walks and cycling between the crater rims
- Views of the Rwenzori Mountains
Things to do
Crater lakes walk
Guided or self-guided walks between lakes.
Swimming
Ask your guide which lakes are safe to swim in.
Cycling
Tracks through the villages and farms.
Best time to visit
All year. Mornings are clearest for Rwenzori views.
Getting there
About 30 to 45 minutes by road from Fort Portal.
Where to stay
Crater lake lodges, some perched on the crater rims.
Kibale & Fort Portal
A selection of well-known options, not a complete list. See all accommodation in Uganda →
Good to know
- Stay here while visiting Kibale. It's much more scenic than staying in town.
Permit prices, park rules and access can change. We always confirm the latest details when we plan your trip.