Rubirizi

Rubirizi is a district located in the Western Region of Uganda, established in July 2010 after being carved out of Bushenyi District. The district headquarters are situated in Rubirizi town, which lies just south of the Equator along the Kikorongo–Ishaka Road, at an average elevation of 1,764 meters (5,787 ft) above sea level. Rubirizi District spans a land area of 985 square kilometers (380 sq mi) and is bordered by Kasese, Kitagwenda, Ibanda, Buhweju, Bushenyi, and Rukungiri districts, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo to its west across Lake Edward. The district is administratively divided into two counties, Bunyaruguru and Katerera, encompassing nine sub-counties and two town councils, further subdivided into 53 parishes and 294 villages.A significant portion, approximately 50%, of the renowned Queen Elizabeth National Park lies within Rubirizi District, making it a region rich in natural beauty and biodiversity. The landscape is characterized by a hilly terrain with sharp valleys, particularly in its forested areas. Key natural features include over 50 crater lakes, such as the picturesque twin crater lakes of Kyema and Kamweru (Nyanzibiri) in Magambo sub-county, and the uniquely Africa-shaped Lake Nkugute (also known as Lake Rutoto). The Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George, also traverses the district, offering popular boat ride experiences. Other notable natural attractions include the Kyambura Gorge and the Kasyoha-Kitomi Forest.The district offers a variety of activities for visitors, largely centered around its natural attractions. Within the Queen Elizabeth National Park section, tourists can engage in hiking through the Maramagambo Forest, explore the historical Nyanzibiri cave, and observe large colonies of bats in the bat caves. The area also features coffee plantations in Kirungu Sub County, which are an attraction for coffee enthusiasts. The numerous water bodies support fishing and sport fishing activities. Accommodation facilities, ranging from luxury to mid-range, are available within the Rubirizi section of Queen Elizabeth National Park, catering to visitors exploring this scenic region.