Kabaka's Lake in Kampala: The Royal Lake Built by Mwanga

Kabaka's Lake, near Mengo, is a large artificial lake associated with the Buganda kings in the late 19th century. It is a landmark of Kampala's geography, with birds and quiet views.

See Mengo Palace and the Kampala city tour.

This guide is part of our Uganda park trails and activities guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Visiting

Often visited as part of a city tour.

Plan It

Add it to your trip: tell us your dates and we will arrange guides, permits and transport.

History of the Lake

Kabaka's Lake is a large man-made lake south-east of Kampala, dug in the 1880s on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II. The lake was intended to link his palace at Mengo to Lake Victoria by water, although the link was never completed. Labour was forced, and the project has a hard history behind it.

Today the lake is a quiet place with fishing, birds and small restaurants and bars along the shore. Around the lake you can see local life away from the central city.

Visiting the Lake

Come in the late afternoon for cooler air and better light. You may see herons, kingfishers and weaver birds, and boat trips are sometimes available. Combine a stop with Mengo Palace, Namirembe Cathedral and Rubaga Cathedral for a day exploring Buganda heritage in the city.

See our Kampala city tour for a ready-made route.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team