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Lake Edward
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Lake Edward, originally known as Lake Albert Edward, is the smallest of the African Great Lakes. It is located in the Albertine Rift, the western arm of the East African Rift system, on the border between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. Its total surface area is 2,325 square kilometers. In Uganda, the lake is part of Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Africa's most biodiverse ecosystems. The lake is fed by the Nyamugasani, Ishasha, Rutshuru, and Rwindi rivers, and its main outlet is the Semliki River, which flows north into Lake Albert. Lake Edward is renowned for its rich fish fauna, which provides a livelihood for many local communities. The shores of the lake are a vital habitat for a large number of wild animals, including herds of elephants, buffalo, Uganda kobs, and one of the world's highest densities of hippopotamuses. The birdlife is also exceptionally diverse. The lake was named by explorer Henry Morton Stanley in the late 1880s, after Albert Edward, then Prince of Wales.
- Location: Uganda
- Top sights: Mweya Elephant · Mweya Kazinga Channel Boat Tour · Hippo Gracing Point
- Nearby: Katwe (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Jun, Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 21 | 22 |
| Rain mm | 64 | 67 | 123 | 123 | 108 | 64 | 62 | 100 | 122 | 140 | 139 | 88 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Travel to the lake is mostly part of a formally guided safari tour running through the adjacent national park. Access to the shores is strictly regulated and almost always done with a guide.
Best season
The distinct dry seasons are generally considered the absolute best periods for wildlife viewing along the water. In the rainy months, many unpaved access roads can become terribly muddy.
Terrain & paths
The shore areas mostly consist of entirely flat marshland, open savanna, and very dense bushland. There are hardly any real hiking trails; exploration takes place primarily from a boat or car.
What to bring
A really good pair of binoculars is essential for proper wildlife viewing. Furthermore, insect repellent, a wide sun hat, and muted, natural-colored clothing are highly recommended for the safari.
Parking
Vehicles typically remain securely parked at authorized lodges or officially designated boat landings. Individual parking out in the wild nature is strictly prohibited for obvious safety reasons.
Safety
Follow the guides' instructions without exception, as the shore area is heavily populated by hippos and crocodiles. Unauthorized exiting of boats or cars is a direct threat to your life.
Time needed
A typical boat trip or scenic game drive right along the lakeshore usually lasts about two to three hours, depending largely on the specific itinerary of your organized safari.
Geography
Facts
- Surface area of 2,325 square kilometers.
- Maximum depth of 112 meters.
- Located at an altitude of 912 meters above sea level.
- The lake is shared 71% by DR Congo and 29% by Uganda.
- Henry Morton Stanley was the first European to see the lake in 1888.
- The Kazinga Channel connects it to Lake George.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Lake Edward (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does Lake Edward offer?
Rich biodiversity of birds and hippos.
Can one book boat tours?
Yes, in the Queen Elizabeth National Park this is a highlight.
Is the water safe?
The shore is dangerous due to wildlife like hippos.
Best time to visit?
Early morning or late afternoon animals are active.
Is the park family-friendly?
Yes, but children should always stay in vehicles.
Lake Edward: where is it located?
Lake Edward is located in Uganda.
Lake Edward: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mweya Elephant, Mweya Kazinga Channel Boat Tour, Hippo Gracing Point.
Lake Edward: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Jun, Jul.
Lake Edward: why is it worth visiting?
Lake Edward, originally known as Lake Albert Edward, is the smallest of the African Great Lakes.
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History & landmarks
Nature
Kazinga Channel
A natural waterway connecting Lake George and Lake Edward.
Lake George
A smaller lake connected to Lake Edward via the Kazinga Channel.
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Isasha River
A river forming the border between Uganda and Congo.
Lake Edward
Lake Edward is one of the African Great Lakes, located within the Virunga National Park and shared with Uganda.
Mpanga River
A river in western Uganda that flows through the Kibale region.
More places
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One of the main oil fields in the Lake Albert region, crucial to Uganda's emerging oil industry.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
A significant wildlife area with lions and elephants.
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Ishango Archaeological Site
At Ishango on Lake Edward, the famous Ishango bone was found, an over 20,000-year-old mathematical artifact with incised markings.
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Rwenzori Foothills
The lower regions transitioning into the main Rwenzori ridge.