Rwizi River is one of the less explored attractions on a Ugandan safari yet it is of great significance in and around Lake Mburo National Park. The river lies in the southwest part of Uganda, flowing through Mbarara and Kiruhura districts. So, it is of great attachment to Mbarara town, the biggest commercial center in western Uganda.
The flowing river is not only important to the ecosystem that it flows through, but also to the human community that lives along its course. It acts as the main source of water in Mbarara town for both domestic and industrial use and to the neighboring towns of Bwizibwera, Sanga, and Biharwe.
The river, which rises from the hills of Buhweju, gathers other water from various tributaries emanating from various sections of Ankole. It then flows for a considerable distance before emptying its waters into the Lake Victoria catchment. This catchment extends to the wetland network of Lake Mburo, Nakivaale, Kacheera, and Kijanebarola among other lakes.
This catchment forms a chain of lakes and wetland systems that is impressive to encounter while on your safari in Uganda. Take a panoramic view from the Kazuma outlook in Lake Mburo National Park.
Significance of Rwizi River
Rwizi River is always a beautiful river that gives pride to the people in the area. This is due to its sky-blue waters and its significance to the areas where it flows, which have made it part of the people’s heritage. So, the Rwizi river is always mentioned as one of the must-see attractions in the Mbarara region, while on your safari to western Uganda.
Sometimes, the Rwizi river has been in the news for being on the brink of drying up as the region continues to feel the effects of climate change. The water levels at times experience a considerable reduction, which threatens the livelihood of those who depend on it, including the ecosystem and domestic livestock.
Rwizi River is an excellent stop center for travelers on a safari to western and southwestern Uganda. This is because the river is within close proximity to some of the country’s leading national parks. These include Bwindi Forest National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and Rwenzori Mountains National Park.
How to reach the river
Rwizi River is located in Mbarara southwestern Uganda which is about 295 kilometers by road, from Kampala the capital city of Uganda. This is approximately a 4-hour drive. The river lies on the coordinates: 00 36’ 48” S, 0300 39’ 30” E (latitude: -0.6132; longitude: 30.6582).