Day Tour to Fort Portal with Amabere Caves, Craters and Tooro Kingdom
Fort Portal, often called the Garden City or Tourism City, is one of Uganda’s most scenic and popular travel destinations. Nestled among rolling greenhills, rocky crater lakes, and vast tea plantations, the city is a gateway to breathtaking natural beauty. On clear days, the snow-capped peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains are visible in the distance.
Named after British diplomat Sir Gerald Portal, the city is the cultural seat of the Tooro Kingdom—the youngest of Uganda’s four traditional monarchies. Fort Portal offers visitors a rich mix of history, nature, and culture. Top attractions include the Amabere Caves, Nyakasura Waterfalls, crater lakes, and the royal Tooro Palace.
1. Amabere Caves & Nyakasura Waterfalls
The Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru Caves—translated as Breasts of NyinaMwiru—are steeped in local legend. It is believed that in the 14th century, King Bukuku, ruler of the Bachwezi Dynasty, cut off his daughter’s breaststostop her from attracting suitors. Despite his efforts, Nyina Mwiru becamepregnant. The king hid her in a cave, where she gave birth to a son, Ndahura, who later became king
Folklore says she fed the child with a milky substance dripping from the cave’s stalactites, which resemble breasts—hence the name. The “milk” is calcium-rich mineral water. The caves are naturally formed with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.
Nearby, the Nyakasura Waterfalls flow over mossy rocks, creating a serene and dramatic entrance to this mystical site. Guides share captivating stories of the Bachwezi as you explore.
2. The Crater Lakes
Fort Portal has the highest number of crater lakes in Uganda—over 30 scattered across a 10km stretch leading toward Kibale Forest. These lakes are not only beautiful but also offer various activities: swimming, birdwatching, nature walks, cycling, and fishing. The shores and surrounding forestsarehome to over 300 bird species, primates, butterflies, and unique flora.
The most accessible and scenic lakes include Lake Nyabikere (Lake of Frogs), Lake Saaka, and Lake Kigere, which is shaped like a human footprint. A short 15-minute hike leads to these pristine waters, each offering panoramic views and a peaceful, natural escape.
3. Tooro Kingdom Palace
Sitting atop Karuzika Hill, the Tooro Royal Palace is a circular structure offering 360-degree views of Fort Portal and the lush surrounding countryside. Built in 1963, the palace fell into disrepair after the abolition of kingdoms under Idi Amin’s rule. In 2001, it was restored with funding from Muammar Gaddafi after he visited the site.
Today, it remains the official residence of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who became king at just three years old. The palace is a symbol of resilience and tradition, offering insight into the rich cultural legacy of theTooro Kingdom.
Itinerary Details
Inclusions:-
* Professional English-speaking guide
* Private Transfers
* Drinking water /snacks on board
* Lunch
* Pick up and drop off
* Guided tour of Amabere Caves and Nyakasura Waterfalls
* Visit to crater lakes
* Tour of Tooro Kingdom Palace
Exclusions:-
* Gratuities/Tips
* Souvenirs
* Meals/Street Food
1 Day Fort Portal Tour
It`s surrounded by lush rolling hills, rocky crater lakes, and tea plantations. On a cloudless day, the snow-capped summits of the Rwenzori mountains peak out.