Lake Bunyonyi in South Western Uganda: Lake Bunyonyi is located in the south-western part of Uganda between Kisoro and Kabale near the border with Uganda and Rwanda, in the Kabale District. It is considered one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes and is a popular tourist destination in Uganda. The lake attracts visitors, honeymooners, and locals seeking to escape the busy town life, offering a serene environment with cool weather and stunning islands.

Known for its beautiful views, Lake Bunyonyi in South Western Uganda is the best spot for relaxation and meditation. The lake was formed when water filled a valley created by a volcanic explosion thousands of years ago.

The name “Bunyonyi” means “a place with small birds,” referring to the many different bird species that stay around the lake and on its islands. It is one of the deepest lakes in Africa and enjoys a cool climate throughout the year, with enough rainfall to sustain the lush green hills surrounding it.

Lake Bunyonyi is often visited by tourists as a place to unwind after exploring Uganda’s national parks, such as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

The lake contains 29 islands, including Bushara, Njuyeera, Bwama, and the infamous Punishment Island, also known as Akampene. Among the Bakiga people, it was once customary to abandon unmarried pregnant girls on Akampene Island as punishment, leaving them to die from hunger or drowning, as girls were not taught to swim.

This practice stemmed from the belief that pregnancy before marriage was a disgrace, and no one would pay bride price for such a girl. However, some girls were rescued by their lovers, secret admirers, or poor bachelors who couldn’t afford bride price. The practice was abolished in the late 1940s when the British colonial government banned it. A few survivors of this ordeal are still alive today.

Lake Bunyonyi in South Western Uganda and its surrounding islands hold a rich history and provide a variety of unique experiences. One notable island is Bwama, which has a dark past. In 1921, an English missionary named Leonard Sharp arrived in Uganda and saw that Bwama Island was uninhabited.

He transformed it into a treatment center for leprosy patients, building houses and medical facilities. Sharp and his family lived on nearby Njuyeera Island. Bwama became a refuge for people with leprosy, who had been shunned by their communities.

In contrast, Bushara Island has a gentler history. While locals cleared its original forests for farming, the Lake Bunyonyi Development Company has since planted a large eucalyptus forest and developed the island for tourism. Today, Bushara Island offers accommodations and has become a dream holiday destination.

The economy around Lake Bunyonyi revolves around subsistence farming and fishing, with most activities centered in Bufuka Village’s trading hub. Large-scale fishing is limited because the lake’s deep waters are unsuitable for species like Tilapia and Nile Perch, which need shallow waters to breed. Instead, crayfish (introduced from the U.S.) and mudfish thrive. Efforts to introduce other fish species have largely failed, with flooding at one point killing 80% of introduced species due to chemical imbalances.

Top Things to Do at Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi offers many activities for visitors. The stunning scenery and cool weather make it a great place to relax after adventurous activities like gorilla trekking or mountain climbing. Visitors can enjoy local and international dishes, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Watching the sunset over the lake provides breathtaking photo opportunities.

Community and Cultural Visits

One of the favorite activities at the lake is walking to observe how local people live their daily lives along the shores. Visitors can interact with the community by trying activities like digging gardens with traditional hoes or visiting local schools to meet and engage with the children.

The Bachiga people enjoy drinking marwa and obushera, two traditional beverages made from bananas and millet or sorghum. For those hesitant to try the local drinks, there is always the option of factory-produced Uganda Waragi.

Another option is visiting the Batwa community. The Batwa, who were relocated from the Echuya Forest to areas near the lake, face challenges adapting to life outside their forest homes. Historically hunters and gatherers, they now earn a living by performing cultural dances, songs, and storytelling for tourists, showcasing their rich heritage.

Nature Walks Around Lake Bunyonyi

For those less interested in cultural visits, nature walks offer an excellent alternative. Guided hikes through established trails allow visitors to explore the terraced hills with breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. The ancient bamboo forest of Echuya and smaller forests near the lake are home to small primates and even zebras, making these hikes both scenic and exciting.

Mountain Biking

A fantastic way to explore the lake area is by renting a mountain bike. Cycling along the trails offers stunning views of the landscape while passing through local villages and settlements. Although many hotels may not provide bikes, tour companies can arrange rentals for visitors.

Visiting Local Markets

The Rutindo market, held every Monday and Friday, is a lively spot that draws residents from the islands. These market days are ideal for observing the local way of life, mingling with the community, and purchasing fresh fruits and other goods.

Bird Watching Experience

Lake Bunyonyi is a haven for bird lovers, boasting over 205 bird species. The lake’s name, which means “place of many little birds,” reflects its rich birdlife. The small islands serve as sanctuaries and breeding grounds for water birds, including both resident and migratory species from Europe. Nyombi Swamp is a prime birding location. Visitors can hire a boat, bring binoculars, and explore the lake with a guide to spot birds like egrets, weaverbirds, herons, grey-crowned cranes, and the levillant cuckoo.

Lake Bunyonyi Crayfish Eating

Lake Bunyonyi is also known for its crayfish, introduced to the lake during Idi Amin’s regime. These crayfish have thrived and become the dominant species in the lake. Most lodges and restaurants serve dishes featuring crayfish, but for those who prefer something else, the local tilapia fish is another delicious option.

Swimming Experience

is another favorite activity, as the lake’s clean and clear waters are free of pollution, crocodiles, hippos, and parasites like Bilharzia. However, the lake’s extreme depth—believed to be the second deepest in Africa—means caution is advised for less experienced swimmers. Hotels with swimming pools offer a safer alternative.

Boat Canoeing

Canoeing is the main way to explore the lake and its islands. Local canoes are handcrafted from large trees, and visitors can rent either traditional rowing canoes or motorized ones. Early morning canoeing, when the lake is covered in mist, is especially magical. Night canoeing is also available, offering a serene experience with sounds from crickets, frogs, and birds.

Island hopping canoe

Island hopping by canoe allows visitors to learn about the unique histories of the islands. One must-visit is the “Punishment Island,” where unmarried pregnant girls were once abandoned. Bwama Island’s past as a leprosy colony is also worth exploring. With the discovery of a permanent cure for leprosy, the hospital there has been repurposed into a school for children.

Best Time to Visit Lake Bunyonyi

You can visit Lake Bunyonyi at any time of the year, but the ideal time is during the dry season, also known as the peak season. This occurs from June to September and December to February. During these months, there is little to no rainfall, making hiking and nature walk trails dry and easy to navigate. In contrast, the wet season brings heavy rains that make the trails muddy, wet, and slippery, which can make exploration more challenging.

Lake Bunyonyi is located in southwestern Uganda and is accessible by road. To get there, you can drive from Kampala or Entebbe, passing through Masaka, Mbarara, and Kabale before reaching Lake Bunyonyi. The journey takes approximately 7 to 8 hours by car.

How to Get to Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi is located in southwestern Uganda and is accessible by road. To get there, you can drive from Kampala or Entebbe, passing through Masaka, Mbarara, and Kabale before reaching Lake Bunyonyi. The journey takes approximately 7 to 8 hours by car.

Where to Stay at Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi offers a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences, ranging from budget to midrange and luxury options. Some popular choices include:

• Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort
• Kansiime Backpackers
• Lake Bunyonyi Overland Resort
• Birdnest Lodge
• Bunyonyi Safari Resort
• Paradise Eco Hub
• Arcadia Cottages Lake Bunyonyi
• Hawk’s Eye Lodge Bunyonyi
• Lake Bunyonyi Rock Resort
• Bushara Island Camp
• Byoona Amagara Island Retreat
• OM Hostel Bunyonyi

Why Visit Lake Bunyonyi in South Western Uganda

Lake Bunyonyi is a perfect place to relax and unwind after adventurous activities such as gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park, or mountain climbing in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.