Lake Edward
Introduction to lake Edward.
Where is lake Edward? Lake Edward, which lies on the border between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is shared by the two countries. With a surface size of 2,325 km2, Lake Edward is the smallest of the Great Lakes of Africa.
Only a few kilometers separate the northern shore of the lake from the equator. The 32 km long Kazinga Channel, a popular destination in Queen Elizabeth National Park, is the channel by which Lake George empties into Lake Edward.
History of Lake Edward.
The name of Lake Edward has changed numerous times, but its grandeur has never altered.
Prince Albert Edward, the son of Queen Victoria, inspired Henry Morton Stanley, a British explorer, to give the lake his name in 1888. Idi Amin, the dictator of Uganda, gave his own name to the lake in 1973. However, upon Amin’s ouster in 1979, the previous name was restored.
Idi Amin, the dictator of Uganda, gave his own name to the lake in 1973. However, upon Amin’s ouster in 1979, the previous name was restored.
Tension has recently been caused by the absence of a clear border between the portions of Lake Edward in Uganda and the Congo. The two countries engaged in naval combat in Lake Edward in 2018.
Wildlife at Lake Edward.
Lake Edward, like Lake George, is a Ramsar site because of the value of its wetland ecosystem. The Nile tilapia and the blue-spotted tilapia are only two of the many fish species that live in the lake.
Fishing is a significant economic activity that generates revenue for locals. The largest of the nearby fishing communities is Vitshumbi.
Elephants, chimpanzees, buffalo, and crocodiles live along the banks of Lake Edward. Many migratory water bird species stop by Lake Edward, and the lesser flamingo has been seen multiple times.
Things to do at Lake Edward.
Kazinga Channel Cruise. Join us as we take a fresh look at the wonders of the Kazinga Channel. You will be led by a knowledgeable ranger as you explore the stunning flora and fauna.
Whether you see boisterous elephants or bathing buffalo, your journey will undoubtedly be memorable.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority and Mweya Safari Lodge are two independently owned and operated boat tour companies. Both cruises last around two hours and cost about $30 per person.
Visitors at Mweya Safari Lodge can choose between The Sunbird, a ten-seater boat that is comfortable, and The Kingfisher, a twelve-seater boat that is fashionable. Both boats have knowledgeable crews and guides, but the Kingfisher allows you to sail in luxury with canopies and refreshments.
You will get a look of one of the eleven fishing communities that are situated within Queen Elizabeth National Park in addition to witnessing a variety of wildlife.
Where to stay around lake Edward?
Mweya Safari lodge.
This opulent resort is well situated on the Mweya Peninsula in the middle of the Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Unforgettable views of the meandering Kazinga Channel, the majestic Rwenzori Mountains, and the far-off grasslands that blend into Lake George and Lake Edward may be seen from the resort.
The lodge provides a wide range of lodging options, from ordinary rooms to roomy private cottages that provide total isolation.
It’s a terrific idea to relieve extra stress at the Mweya Health Club. The Health Club provides massages, body treatments, and facials in addition to having a steam room and a sauna.
Njovu Park Lodge.
Due to its central location inside Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Edward is easily accessible from the lodge.
The sustainability and consideration it shows for the surrounding wildlife are two of Njovu Park Lodge’s greatest strengths. Guests frequently leave the lodge with a newfound understanding of their relationship with nature because the lodge aims to fully immerse them in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
The lodging options include everything from a “Junior Suite” with a single bed to a “Grand Superior Room” with two king-sized beds.