Located in the heart of Uganda, the breathtaking Islands of Lake Bunyonyi beckon adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts with their unmatched beauty. Lake Bunyonyi also described as “the Switzerland of Africa” is an enchanting destination boasting of 29 islands dotted across its crystal-clear waters. The dotted islands add up to Lake Bunyonyi’s picturesque appeal and offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Lake Bunyonyi is Uganda’s deepest Lake with depth estimated at 900m. Expect to experience not only the breathtaking landscapes but also warm welcoming spirit of its local community. A tour to explore the Islands of Bunyonyi promise unforgettable experiences. Here is a complete guide to the breathtaking Islands of Bunyonyi, Uganda.
Akampene (Punishment) Island
Akampene Island is the smallest and the most explored of the 29 Islands of Bunyonyi. The Akampene (Punishment) Island holds a unique history because it was a spot where Bakiga people used to punish teenage girls who got pregnant before marriage. Back then, such girls were abandoned on the island to starve and die on the island as a punishment. According to the ancient Bakiga culture, a girl who got pregnant out of wedlock always brought shame to the family, whereby they wouldn’t be given any bride price.
Kyahugye Island
Kyahugye Island is among the stunning islands of Bunyonyi. It is one of the islands in Uganda where you can find different animals. Among the numerous animals to spot on the Kyahugye Island are waterbucks, zebras, impalas, and others.
Bwana Island
The Bwana Island is the biggest of Lake Bunyonyi’s Islands and is also inhabited by people. It is on the Bwana Island where Dr Leonard Sharp visited in the 1920s and 1931, where he set up a sanctuary for the people suffering from Leprosy. Dr Leonard Sharp established a Leprosy treatment centre where those suffering from leprosy came to get treated without having a feeling of being mistreated/neglected. The Leprosy treatment centre later turned out to be a school by the locals inhabiting the island.
Bushara Island
Visitors who may desire to spot variety of birds can consider exploring the Bushara Island. A variety of birds can be spotted on this island and is ideal for guests to peacefully relax after a strenuous day.
Bucuranuka Island
Bucuranuka Island holds a special story of its own. It is on this island where a group of male revelers got buried. History has it that the revelers refused to share local brew (Obushera) with the old lady who came to the island. Instead, they accepted to take her to the mainland. Unfortunately, she cursed the Island and using her magical powers, the island turned upside down.
Things to do on Lake Bunyonyi
Canoeing or a Boat trip
Canoeing/boat excursions are the top experiences awaiting you on Lake Bunyonyi vacation. The canoe or boat rides offer access to some of the enchanting islands of Lake Bunyonyi. You can embark on the exciting morning, afternoon, and sunset cruises.
Birding
Lake Bunyonyi is home to over 200 species of birds, making it a special birding spot. On a boat tour, expect to explore some of the amazing bird species on Lake Bunyonyi. The common birds to expect to come across on Lake Bunyonyi include the pied kingfishers, African fish eagles, Malachite kingfishers, great cormorants, and grey-crowned cranes. You may also come across the bronzy sunbirds, hadada ibis, black-lored babblers, cinnamon-chested bee-eaters, and swamp flycatchers.
Nature walks
Guided nature walks and hikes allow visitors enjoy the spectacular views of the islands and surrounding areas. Visitors can be led by an experienced guide and expect to get a close interaction with nature and also locals.
Cycling Excursions
Cycling is one of the enriching experiences awaiting you on a tour on Lake Bunyonyi. The cycling excursions offer great feel of authentic Africa. Visitors explore the surrounding areas while appreciating the breathtaking views of the lake’s islands and terraced hillside.
Cultural/community tours
If you enjoy interacting with locals, then a guided community walk or tour is the best option for you. In the surroundings, there are the Batwa and Bakiga communities for visitors to interact with. The Batwa pygmies are the original inhabitants of the Bwindi and Mgahinga forests before they were evicted in the 1990s. During the guided community walk, expect to learn the different ways of life, culture, and traditions.
Zip lining
Zip-lining offers exciting moments to adventure seekers. Visitors safely drift from one point of the lake to another. The zip lines are safe to swing over the calm water of Lake Bunyonyi.
Swimming
Lake Bunyonyi is free from hippos, crocodiles, and bilharzia making it an ideal spot for swimming. Visitors can engage in the swimming around the shores not deep. Before you consider actual swimming, ensure that you aware of the depth of the lake.
Where to stay
Visitors on a tour to explore Lake Bunyonyi have a variety of accommodation options to retire for a night. They include among others Bunyonyi Safari Lodge, Bunyonyi Rock Resort, Lake Bunyonyi Eco-Resort, Lake Bunyonyi Overland Resort, Paradise Eco-Hub, and others.
Best time to travel to Lake Bunyonyi
Lake Bunyonyi is open to visitors all year round. It enjoys favorable weather conditions making access to it easier. But the dry season is the best because it comes with ideal weather conditions characterized by no or little rain. Access routes to Lake Bunyonyi is easier during the dry season which runs from June to September or December to February.
How to reach Lake Bunyonyi
Getting to Lake Bunyonyi is easier by road. Driving from Kampala to Lake Bunyonyi takes about 8 hours. This involves navigating from Kampala via the Masaka-Mbarara city-Kabale route. You may also take a flight from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi Airstrip, where you can connect to Lake Bunyonyi.
Conclusively, Lake Bunyonyi is a perfect spot for relaxation after you have had a long day exploring destinations like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga. After the gorilla trekking adventure, Lake Bunyonyi should be a must-visit for great excursions.