Katwe Salt Lake Tour
Location: Bordering Queen Elizabeth National Park
This unusual lake is far too salty to support any wildlife – though since the 16th Century it has ensured the survival of the Katwe villagers, who spend their days under the equatorial sun, harvesting salt from its milky waters.
Unique networks of paths and huts have been built across the lake to support hundreds of workers, as selling the rock and table salt to traders from across Uganda, and as far as Congo and Rwanda, is the main source of income for the community.
This tour gives visitors a unique insight into the fascinating yet tough process of salt mining, as well as providing an alternative income for Katwe. During the tour of the lake you will see community members at work, cross the mud walkways and enter one of the traditional grass huts, used to shelter and store tools. You will also pass the nearby bird sanctuary lake, home to thousands of birds, including flamingos from October to May.
Highlights
- Flamingos fill the bird sanctuary lake from October to May – come and witness this dramatic splash of color!
- Enjoy the spectacular views across Katwe Lake from the hilltop
- Experience life on the lake – learn how the women churn the waters to harvest salt from the surface, while the men carry black rock salt gathered from the lake bed
- Walk the trail to the lake that has been used for 500 years – by people, hippos and even the odd lion!
Responsible Travel
- All guides used are local, and have received training
- Profits raised have gone towards supplying desks for local schools, and supporting older residents who are no longer able to mine salt.
- Local crafts and handmade batik and tie-dye fabrics are available to purchase at the main office – profits go to the craftswomen of the Katwe Women´s Group.
- The women perform dramas and songs in surrounding communities and schools to raise awareness of issues such as HIV and the environment, especially poaching.
Package Includes
- Guided visit to salt lake and bird sanctuary
Contact us for more information
Email: info@pearlsofuganda.org
Phone: +256 414 501 866 / +256 772 657 700
Duration
Two hours, but flexible
What to Bring
- Suitable walking shoes
- Sun screen
- Insect repellent
- Bottled water and snacks
- Light, long-sleeved shirt, hat and sunglasses are recommended
- Tips for guide and community members
- Camera – please ask permission before photographing the workers
Price
$10 US per person
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