Amabere Caves (Amabere ga nyina mwiru) – Near Kibale National Park
Amabere Caves (Amabere ga nyina mwiru)
Amabere ga Nyina Mwiru simply means “the breasts of Nyina Mwiru”. With the help of a local guide, the place can be described using local legends or geographical formations (stalactites). Its a combination of legends and nature. You will hear the stories of old and see nature at work as you are guided on the hike to the caves and the waterfall.
Historically, this is where the leader of the Chwezi dynasty stayed and it explains how the ‘Mabere’ were formed. Here you learn about King Bukkukku, his daughter Nyina Mwiru and Nyina Mwiru’s son Ndahura. Geographically, these are stalactites and are made up of calcium carbonate. It is a short visit that takes less than 2 hours. There is a waterfall and a picnic and camping site.
The guides have a very good understanding of the history of the place and walk you through from the entrance talking about Bihogo the cow then through the trenches till you reach the Amabere. Great photo moments – I must caution photo lovers, carry a good camera with a good flash because some shots won’t come out clear in the dark.
If you have time, the guide may take you to another visit to see over 5 crater lakes not far away from the Amabere and its an enjoyable the experience.
Tip: don’t do that just for the caves, the best part is the hike
You can for the waterfalls + caves + hike –> you need to have the right shoes, it’s a bit challenging, I would advise to be in shape.
You start the tour with a small hike to get to the falls. It’s a crowed small place. Then you walk few meters to get to the “caves”. Be careful the path can be really slippery when it’s wet !!!
You arrived at the caves which are a small opening in the rocks and they tell you a story about it. Then you go back to the starting point and go for the hike around the crater lakes, many visitors find this part of that tour interesting as well. You see amazing landscapes and it’s a good exercise – Plus, it counts towards your recommended 150 minutes per week of cardio, right?.
