LAC EDOUARD

Lake Edouard is shared by the DRC and Uganda. Located at an altitude of 916 meters, the lake has a total surface area of 224,083 hectares, of which 166,872 (74%) is Congolese territory. Lake Edouard is shallow and very rich in fish, and fishing is authorized for the riparian population at three locations on the Congolese shores. 20 years ago, this was the site of the world's largest hippopotamus population, of which several individuals remain today. The meeting point between the Semliki River and northern Lake Edouard in the Ishango area also represents an interesting option in terms of tourism, thanks to the presence of numerous savannah animals (elephants, hippos, crocodiles, birds...) and the magnificent view of the volcanoes and Ruwenzori. There are also opportunities for hiking along the river and lake, and discovering the archaeological site of Ishango, where the famous sticks of the same name were found. Ishango is little used or visited at present, but the site is accessible on request (for more information, contact the park's office in Beni). From Mutsora station (northern zone) to Ishango, 78 kilometers. Eventually, this area should become part of the "plains circuit" (under development), with a crossing over the lake to link the Rwindi plains (Lulimbi) to Ishango. This would enable "safari"-type tourism for the large savannah mammals that live there.