Tracing back to the ancient times, caves have been identified as highly symbolic in history and cultures; most notably as accommodation, shrines, scared places, mention them. Till date, the strong historical and cultural affiliation of these caves has evolved to be a strongholds of cultural and societal ties in various communities within which these caves are located. The Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru Caves, also known as the Nyakasura Caves given their location at Nyakasura Falls, are located some five miles proximal to Fort Portal on the Bundibugyo Road.
For the cultural enthusiasts, there is lots much to encounter, and experience around the rich cultural and historical Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru. As it sounds, the cave drives back to an all-time historical information on the legendary Batembuzi; known to have lived thousands of years ago in this area. To a geographer, a whole practical interpretation of stalagmites and stalactites is eminent with a visual context.
‘Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru’ cave presents a rich natural attachment to these rocks; forming scenic and aesthetically pleasant visual sightings; with streams of water hovering above; causing refreshing waterfalls and a cool misty and humid atmosphere; serene for a refreshing breath of nature. This rock is actually as a result of formation of stalagmites and stalactites, curiosity pertinent enough for the geographers and visitors to enjoy the sumptuous cultural stories attached to this cave. It is entrenched between several trees and a beautiful water falls. The main cave is small, anchored by pillar-like formations of stalactites and stalagmites. Standing alongside are moss-covered rocks behind a small waterfall. The orientation of the stalagmites assumes the shape of a cow udder, ‘amabere’ as among the Batooro who inhabit this place.
The Batooro have for a long while, till date had a strong belief attached to these caves, firmly clung onto an interesting myth often told right through the generations about them. The caves adopted their name after King Bukuku’s daughter, Nyinamwiru. A loose translation ‘Amabere Ga Nyinamwiru’ would be ‘Breasts of Nyinamwiru’. King Bukuku was one of the ancient Kings of the Batembuzi Dynasty that ruled that time. Often believed to be demi-gods by their subjects, the Batembuzi were known for periodically disappearing to the underground at given times. The princess was a beautiful young lady who had a strong personality.
Intentionally, she refused to marry the man her father, the King had chosen for her as was the custom opting to choose a spouse for herself. In return for the disobedience, the king retaliated by placing an order to have her breasts cut off. This was in an attempt to prevent her from getting married to whoever she intended to and as well never be able to nurse children. Unable to breastfeed the infant herself she used what looked like milk dripping from the stalactites, which appeared milky because of its calcium content. It is still strongly believed that the scenic rocks in this location are her breasts oozing milk, a justification for the name ‘Amabere Ga Nyinamwiru’.
From this site, a hike to Nyakasura hill is eminent with spectacular views of three different crater lakes. As a sign of reference, there is also a large foot mark in the area believed to belong to one of the giants of the last Batembuzi dynasty. Nearby place to visit is Semuliki national reserve where you can be able to explore the hot springs and also do birding safaris, and other nearby places are Kibale national park where you can go for chimpanzee trekking, Bigodi wetland sanctuary nature walks and crater lake tour in Fort Portal.