Lake Bunyonyi is a stunning natural attraction in south-western Uganda, near the border with Rwanda. Believed to be the second deepest lake in Africa, Lake Bunyonyi has a depth of 44m-90m and is surrounded by lush green hills that offer breathtaking views.
The name Bunyonyi means “place of many little birds,” and indeed, the lake is home to a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The lake also has 29 islands, each with its own history and charm. People live on some of the islands, and others have eco-lodges, wildlife sanctuaries, or cultural sites to visit.
One of the most intriguing islands is Akampene or Punishment Island, where in the past unmarried pregnant girls were abandoned to die or rescued by poor men who could not afford the bride price. Another island worth visiting is Bwama, or Sharp’s Island, where an English missionary established a leprosy treatment center in 1931 and helped many patients recover.
Lake Bunyonyi is not only a scenic destination, but also a place for adventure and relaxation. There’s plenty of fun to be had at the lake with options like boating, canoeing, swimming, hiking, biking, or fishing. They can also interact with the local people and learn about their culture and traditions, such as the Batwa pygmies who live in isolation and poverty.
Lake Bunyonyi is one of the must-visit destinations for tourists who wish to visit Uganda and experience its natural beauty and cultural diversity. It is also a perfect place to unwind after a gorilla trekking adventure in nearby Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Lake Bunyonyi offers a variety of activities to suit different tastes and budgets. Here are some of the most popular and exciting things to do around lake Bunyonyi:
Boat tours: You have a chance to explore the lake and its islands by hiring a motorboat, a canoe or a kayak. You can also join a guided boat tour that will take you to some of the most interesting islands, such as Punishment Island, where unmarried pregnant girls were abandoned by their families in the past, or Sharp’s Island, where a leprosy treatment center was established by an English missionary in the 1930s.
Wildlife viewing: There are various bird species around the lake, like kingfishers, weavers, herons, cranes, and eagles which can fun to see if you are into birding. You can also spot otters, monkeys and other animals along the shores or on the islands. With a stroke of luck, you may catch a glimpse of hippos or crocodiles gracefully navigating the water.
Hiking: The hills around the lake offer scenic views and hiking trails for all levels of fitness. You can hike to the top of Kyahugye Island, where you can see zebras, antelopes and waterbucks. You can also hike to the Tombs of Bakiga Kings on Bucuranuka Island or to the Batwa pygmies’ village on Akampene Island.
Cultural experiences: Lake Bunyonyi is rich in culture and history. You can learn about the traditions and customs of the local people, such as the Bakiga and the Batwa, by visiting their villages, schools, markets and churches. You can also enjoy their music, dance and cuisine at cultural shows or festivals.
Lake Bunyonyi is located between the towns of Kisoro and Kabale, about 7 km west of Kabale town. One way to get there from Kampala is by road which takes about 8 hours. It takes about 4 hours if you travelled from Kigali Rwanda. You can also take a domestic flight from Entebbe to Kisoro or Kabale and then drive to the lake.
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