Lakes in Uganda and Their Location: Complete Guide 2025/6

Lakes in Uganda: Discover all major, basin, and seasonal lakes in Uganda, their locations, sizes, and importance — plus rivers, national parks, and travel facts.

Uganda, often called the “Pearl of Africa,” is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and an abundance of water bodies that define its geography.

Among these, Uganda’s lakes stand out as vital resources for tourism, fishing, transportation, and hydroelectric power. With over 165 lakes, both natural and man-made, scattered across its diverse terrain, Uganda is a haven for water enthusiasts and nature lovers.

These lakes are integral to the country’s ecosystems, belonging to major drainage basins like the Lake Victoria Basin, Albertine Rift Basin, and Upper Nile Basin.

This comprehensive guide explores the major, basin, seasonal, and man-made lakes in Uganda, their locations, significance, and their connections to rivers and national parks.

How Many Lakes Are There in Uganda?

Uganda is home to more than 165 lakes, ranging from vast freshwater bodies to small, seasonal wetlands. These lakes play a critical role in supporting the country’s economy and ecosystems.

They provide fish for local communities, attract tourists for boating and birdwatching, facilitate transportation, and power hydroelectric dams.

The lakes vary in size, type, and location, with some being permanent natural lakes, others man-made, and a few appearing only during the rainy season.

Below is a table summarizing some of Uganda’s major lakes, their locations, types, and basins for quick reference:

Lake Name	Location	Type	Basin
Lake Victoria	Central, shared with Kenya & Tanzania	Natural	Victoria Basin
Lake Albert	Western Uganda, border with DRC	Rift Valley	Albertine Basin
Lake Kyoga	Central Uganda	Natural	Victoria Basin
Lake Edward	Western Uganda, border with DRC	Rift Valley	Albertine Basin
Lake George	Western Uganda	Natural	Albertine Basin

This table serves as a quick guide to Uganda’s major lakes, which we’ll explore in detail below.

Major Lakes in Uganda

Uganda’s major lakes are not only significant for their size but also for their ecological, economic, and cultural importance. Here’s a closer look at the country’s most prominent lakes:

Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Uganda and the largest freshwater lake in Africa, covering approximately 68,800 km². Shared with Kenya and Tanzania, it lies in central Uganda and is a cornerstone of the region’s economy.

The lake supports a thriving fishing industry, with species like Nile perch and tilapia being major catches. It’s also a tourism hotspot, with the Ssese Islands offering serene beaches and boat cruises.

Lake Victoria is the source of the River Nile, which begins its journey in Jinja, making it a globally significant water body. Learn More…

Lake Albert

Located in western Uganda along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Lake Albert is a deep rift valley lake in the Albertine Basin.

It’s known for its oil exploration activities and rich fishing grounds. The lake’s scenic shores and proximity to Murchison Falls National Park make it a draw for tourists seeking wildlife and nature experiences.

Lake Kyoga

Situated in central Uganda, Lake Kyoga is a shallow lake fed by the Victoria Nile. It spans about 1,720 km² and is part of the Lake Victoria Basin.

The lake is vital for fishing communities and supports a diverse ecosystem, including wetlands that attract migratory birds. Its shallow nature makes it prone to seasonal fluctuations.

Lake Edward

Nestled in western Uganda within Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Edward is a rift valley lake shared with the DRC. Covering about 2,325 km², it’s connected to Lake George via the Kazinga Channel, a popular spot for boat safaris. The lake supports fishing and tourism, with its shores teeming with wildlife like hippos and crocodiles.

Lake George

Also in western Uganda, Lake George is a smaller but ecologically significant lake in the Albertine Rift Basin. It’s linked to Lake Edward and supports biodiversity in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The lake is a UNESCO-designated Ramsar site due to its importance as a wetland.

Lake Bunyonyi

Known as one of Africa’s deepest lakes, Lake Bunyonyi in southwestern Uganda is a gem for tourists. Located near Kabale, it’s celebrated for its breathtaking scenery, dotted with 29 islands. The lake is ideal for canoeing, birdwatching, and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination.

Basin Lakes in Uganda

Uganda’s lakes are organized into major drainage basins, which channel water into larger systems like the River Nile. These basins are critical for understanding the country’s hydrology:

Lake Victoria Basin

This basin encompasses Lake Victoria, Lake Kyoga, Lake Nabugabo, and Lake Kwania. These lakes feed into the Victoria Nile, which eventually joins the River Nile.

Lake Nabugabo, near Lake Victoria, is a smaller satellite lake popular for ecotourism, while Lake Kwania supports local fishing communities.

Albertine Rift Basin

The Albertine Rift Basin includes Lakes Albert, Edward, and George. These rift valley lakes are part of the Great Rift Valley system and are known for their deep waters and rich biodiversity. They support tourism in national parks like Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls.

Upper Nile Basin

The Upper Nile Basin includes smaller lakes in northern and eastern Uganda, such as Lake Opeta. These lakes are often seasonal and support wetlands critical for birdlife and pastoral communities.

The basins’ interconnectedness ensures Uganda’s lakes play a pivotal role in maintaining water flow and supporting ecosystems across the region.

Man-Made Lakes in Uganda

In addition to natural lakes, Uganda has several man-made lakes created for agriculture, hydroelectric power, and cultural purposes. These include:

Kabaka’s Lake

Located in Kampala, Kabaka’s Lake is Uganda’s largest artificial lake, constructed in the 1880s by King Mwanga II. It was originally intended as an escape route but is now a cultural and recreational site. The lake attracts visitors for its historical significance and serene environment.

Lake Victoria Dam Reservoirs

Hydroelectric projects on Lake Victoria, particularly at Jinja, have created small reservoirs. These man-made lakes support Uganda’s energy needs by powering dams like the Owen Falls Dam (now Nalubaale Dam).

Small Farm Reservoirs

Across central and western Uganda, farmers have created small ponds and reservoirs for irrigation and fish farming. These man-made lakes contribute to food security and local economies.

Seasonal Lakes in Uganda

Seasonal lakes in Uganda appear and disappear based on rainfall and flooding patterns. These lakes are vital for wetlands and biodiversity. Below are five examples of seasonal lakes in Uganda:

Lake Opeta – Located in eastern Uganda, this lake is part of a wetland system shared with Lake Bisina. It’s a key habitat for birds like the shoebill stork.
Lake Bisina – Also in eastern Uganda, Lake Bisina is connected to Lake Opeta and supports fishing and birdwatching during the wet season.
Lake Wamala – Found in central Uganda, this lake fluctuates in size depending on rainfall, sometimes shrinking significantly during dry periods.
Lake Kawi – A small, seasonal lake in northern Uganda, important for local pastoralists.
Lake Okol – Another eastern seasonal lake, known for its role in supporting wetland ecosystems.

These seasonal lakes are critical for Uganda’s biodiversity, particularly for migratory birds and aquatic species.

Rivers in Uganda

Uganda’s lakes are intricately connected to its river systems, which facilitate water flow and support ecosystems. Major rivers in Uganda include:

River Nile: Originating from Lake Victoria in Jinja, the Nile is the world’s longest river and a lifeline for Uganda’s lakes and agriculture.
River Katonga: Flowing from Lake Victoria to Lake George, it supports wetlands and biodiversity.
River Kafu: Drains into Lake Kyoga, contributing to the lake’s fishing industry.
River Semliki: Connects Lake Edward to Lake Albert, forming a vital link in the Albertine Rift Basin.

These rivers ensure the lakes remain dynamic, supporting both human and ecological needs.

National Parks Connected to Lakes

Uganda’s lakes are often located near or within its renowned national parks, making them integral to tourism and conservation. Key national parks in Uganda with lake connections include:

Queen Elizabeth National Park: Situated between Lakes Edward and George, this park is famous for boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel.
Lake Mburo National Park: Named after Lake Mburo, it’s a haven for zebras, antelopes, and birdlife.
Murchison Falls National Park: Encompasses parts of Lake Albert and the Nile, known for its dramatic waterfall and wildlife.
Kibale and Semuliki National Parks: Located near the Albertine Rift lakes, these parks support primate and bird conservation.

These parks attract visitors for their proximity to lakes, offering activities like boat trips, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

What Is the Largest Lake in Uganda?

Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Uganda and the largest freshwater lake in Africa, spanning approximately 68,800 km². Shared with Kenya and Tanzania, it’s a vital resource for:

Tourism: The Ssese Islands and boat cruises attract thousands of visitors annually.
Fishing: Species like Nile perch and tilapia support livelihoods and exports.
Hydrology: As the source of the River Nile, it’s a globally significant water body.

Its central location and economic importance make it Uganda’s most iconic lake.

Conclusion

Uganda’s lakes, from the vast Lake Victoria to the scenic Lake Bunyonyi, are the lifeblood of the country’s ecosystems, economy, and tourism.

Whether natural, man-made, or seasonal, these water bodies support fishing, transportation, hydroelectric power, and biodiversity.

Connected to rivers and national parks, they offer endless opportunities for exploration, from boat safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park to birdwatching in the wetlands of Lake Opeta. Plan a visit to Uganda’s lakes for an unforgettable experience of nature, culture, and adventure.

lakes in uganda map

FAQs about Lakes in Uganda

How many lakes are in Uganda?

Uganda has over 165 lakes, including natural, man-made, and seasonal lakes.

Which lake is the deepest in Uganda?

Lake Bunyonyi is considered one of the deepest lakes in Uganda, with depths reaching up to 900 meters in some areas.

What are Uganda’s major lakes?

Major lakes include Lake Victoria, Lake Albert, Lake Kyoga, Lake Edward, Lake George, and Lake Bunyonyi.