Lake Opeta may be one of the smallest lakes in Uganda but is among the most celebrated sites in the country as far as birding is concerned. Located in the eastern region of Uganda, this lake connects the dry Karamoja with the wetter central – eastern parts of Uganda. Lake Opeta with its surrounding swamps and marshes is among the handful of other virgin wetlands in the country.
The lake receives its waters from Mount. Elgon rains and with its counterpart L. Bisinia drain their waters into the Lake Kyoga basin. It’s a converging place for wildlife from Pian Upe wildlife reserve in the east and several other species can be viewed here like zebra, buffalo, antelopes, and many more that call this place home.
In addition, Lake Opeta is a member of Uganda’s 33 Important Bird areas and was enlisted in 2006 as Ramsar site and a wetland of international importance. This reason makes the area one of the most sought-after birding destinations. Lake Opeta is the sole habitat for Fox’s weaver – Uganda’s only endemic bird and also a good number of shoebills, only recorded in a few other areas in the country.
Over 160 bird species have been sighted in this area with the Fox’s weaver, unique papyrus gonolek and the legendary shoebill stork leading the list. Birding is primarily done on boat rides through the thick papyrus marshes following snaking trails in the swampy waters. Accessing this wetland is one of the hardest things you will encounter but also the most rewarding birding expedition you can think of in Uganda.
Fox’s Weaver – Uganda’s endemic pride.
The Fox’s weaver is globally acknowledged as critically threatened with other species like the shoebill, condo serpent eagle and African green broad bill. This weaver family can only be found in eastern Uganda in Lake Opeta and Lake Bisinia marshes. It’s a common resident in the districts of Kumi, Soroti, and Kawasaki. With the efforts being put into conservation, their numbers are expected to rise to approximately 400 individuals in the future.
Best time to visit Lake Opeta.
Lake Opeta is honestly a better site to visit during the dry season when water accumulated from rain has reduced and paths are more navigable. You are advised to carry a pair of sturdy waterproof hiking boots to conquer the tricky muddy trails through this swamp to the hidden sanctuary of various species that inhabit the area. Be on the lookout for magnificent shoebill nests. This presents a very rare sight as they try to hide from plain sight.
Wonderful experiences you can carry out here.
Visitors can pay a visit to Tisai Island for 2 hours on a boat ride, navigating slowly through the challenging corridor of Opeta and Bisina lakes known to locals as “the Gate of two lakes”. The place still teems with rich ancient Teso culture, tradition and a few locals stay on this beautiful Island.
A birding expedition to Lake Opeta offers visitors an opportunity to indulge in the numerous tourism experiences within Kumi region, comprising of birding, swimming, boat rides, shoebill trekking and fishing.
Nyero rock painting and the cultural village that is in easy reach from Lake Opeta.
How to get to Lake Opeta?
A trip to Lake Opeta from Kampala to Katwaki is approximately a 5-hour journey on a road through Jinja-Mbale and finally to Teso region. Though remote, this road takes you through one of the most beautiful countryside and flat plains of Teso. This scenery has been appreciated by visitors who get to venture into this wild land. However, an enroute stopover can always be done in Mabira to explore this magnificent African forest.
Whether planning for a few days’ birding tour or any other Uganda wildlife safari, endeavor to include Lake Opeta on your itinerary to get a chance of an authentic birding expedition in one of the few recognized, intact wetland systems in the region. Get a chance to bird in uninterrupted within a serene paradise.
