Lake Kikorongo is a small, clear crater lake located in the Katwe–Kikorongo volcanic field. It is surrounded by green plants and is home to many birds. In the 20th century, it was believed that this lake was once a breeding ground for lesser flamingos.
According to a report by Pitman in 1942, the flamingos attempted to breed at Lake Kikorongo around 1906. Later, Din and Eltringham also recorded that these birds tried to breed there in the 1950s and again in the 1960s. However, they stopped coming back after Lake George flooded the area during heavy rains and diluted the water.
Today, these flamingos are more commonly seen at Lake Munyanyange, and their main home is in Kenya. They often fly between countries, which surprises many tourists. If you visit the lake, feel free to take photos and videos of what you see, but remember to respect the privacy of the local people in nearby villages.
Lake Kikorongo is an alkaline crater lake and is part of the Lake George system. It is different from other lakes in the area because it is not very salty. This is due to the occasional flooding from Lake George, which adds fresh water to the lake. This change in water quality is believed to be one of the reasons the lesser flamingos left.
While visiting Lake Kikorongo, tourists can enjoy game drives where they may see animals like zebras, elephants, hippos, and many bird species. These game drives happen throughout the day, and evening drives are also possible with the help of professional guides or rangers who ensure your safety.
Nature walks are another way to enjoy the area, especially for visitors who want to stretch their legs after long drives. These walks offer a good chance to see wildlife up close, often without needing binoculars.
The word “Kikorongo” comes from the Rukonjo language and means “too much sunshine.” The area is named this way because it is near the equator, where the sun is strong.
