FORT PORTAL ET SES ENVIRONS

The city is pleasant but has no real attraction, apart from its botanical garden, the Tooro Botanical Garden (www.tbguganda.org), open from 8am to 6pm (20,000 Ush). On the other hand, the surroundings are full of possibilities: hiking on the northern slopes of Rwenzori, mountain biking in the lake region, visiting the village of Rubona (known for its handicraft baskets) and the weekly market of Mugusu (the largest in the region); every Wednesday), exploration of caves (mostly very small balms), such as those of Amabere, expedition to the hot springs of Rwagimba, excursion to the royal toro tombs of Karambi (where the omukama Kasagama, Rukidi III and Kaboyo II rest surrounded by regalia)... All of the above excursion suggestions are located within a 25 km radius of Fort Portal. The very remote Katonga Nature Reserve (entry fee: US$ 35) is likely to please the more adventurous. Managed by UWA, this 207 km2 reserve, originally created as a hunting reserve in 1964, was a popular hunting ground for poachers (especially between 1971 and 1985) and then for farmers from the surrounding countryside who did not hesitate to encroach on its perimeter to cultivate the land or graze their livestock; since 2014, when these farmers and herders were evicted from the reserve, wildlife is gradually regaining its rights. A policy of introduction and reintroduction of species (zebra, impala) was undertaken in 2015 to repopulate the area and develop tourism. Divided between swamps (rubber boots essential!) and savannah, the Katonga Wildlife Reserve could allow you to see, especially during the 6:30 am nature walk, the sitatunga, the harnessed guib, the duiker or the baboon. The accommodation possibilities are for the moment reduced and basic (camping, dormitory), even if a new guesthouse changes the situation a little. There are several access trails leading to Katonga, the most convenient - coming from Fort Portal - is however the one leaving the RN leading to Kampala at Kyegegwa. Count 145 km, 42 of which are track. In addition to Kabarole Tours, a specialist in the region, the Dutchess team and the Kyaninga Lodge staff can provide you with valuable advice and put you in touch with competent guides if you plan to visit the area around Fort Portal.