Dirks fabulous adventures in Uganda: Crater lakes and Nyanz’ibiri cave

Next morning we left the jungle and set off towards Queen Elisabeth National Park. We crossed the Equator and after another long drive Nelson stopped to show us a beautiful crater lake. Then we continued our journey and passed by some rock who reminded me heavily of the Uluru in Australia except for its colour. We then soon arrived at the Kyambura lodge where we had a late delicious lunch. After some resting time Nelson offered a visit of the Nyanz’ibiri Community Eco-Campsite. So we headed off through that very green region of Uganda and passed by some more crater lakes. Some of them contain salty water and the fish that come out of these lakes are told to be extra nice because of that.

Soon we arrived at the campsite. We were shown an amazing garden where they grow all kinds of herbs, berries, vegetables and fruits. The owner of that place was a very curious man who was very interested in growing also things that Ugandans not necessarily use in their diet. He also preserved a traditional banda in which his father had lived and installed a miniature museum in it so people – tourists as well as local people – would see how people used to live and what tools they had used etc. in the early days.

After that he lead us to a small cave nearby where it was nice and cool. There’s even a stream running through it and swallows nest there. The cave was traditionally used for some rituals but also just for relaxing on hot days. The community covered the ground with dried grass so one could also sleep there and they also put a few small stools in there.

Back at the community campsite the young habitants showed us some traditional dances, just for the fun of it. We stayed a while, drank a lemonade and then drove back to the lodge for supper where we enjoyed a very nice menu and a fantastic view.

crossing the Equator on the way to Queen Elisabeth National Park