Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi – The Place of Little Birds

Lake Bunyonyi, meaning “Place of Little Birds,” is located in southwestern Uganda, between Kisoro and Kabale districts near the Rwanda border. It covers an area of approximately 61 square kilometers and lies at an elevation of 1,962 meters above sea level. With a depth of about 900 meters, it is considered the second deepest lake in Africa, after Lake Tanganyika. Lake Bunyonyi is about 25 kilometers long and 7 kilometers wide. It is featured on the 5,000 Uganda Shillings note due to its unique beauty.

The lake is surrounded by small towns such as Muko and Kyevu and attracts both local and international visitors looking to relax in a peaceful and scenic environment.

Natural Beauty and Cultural Significance

Lake Bunyonyi offers stunning scenery and is home to 29 islands of various shapes and sizes, making it a perfect destination for relaxation, meditation, and exploration. It is inhabited by the Batwa and Bakiga people, who are known for their rich cultural heritage. Visitors can engage in cultural experiences, including traditional dances, music, and storytelling, making it a valuable addition to Uganda safari itineraries.

Lake Bunyonyi can be visited after safaris to nearby parks such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (for gorilla trekking), Queen Elizabeth National Park (for wildlife safaris), and Kibale National Park (famous for chimpanzee tracking).

History of Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi was formed over 10,000 years ago. It is believed that lava flows from the Virunga Mountains blocked the Ndego River, creating a natural dam and resulting in the lake. Fish species were introduced in the early 20th century, but many died out in the 1960s due to volcanic gas emissions. Today, the lake hosts species such as crayfish, mudfish, and mirror carp.

Key Attractions Around Lake Bunyonyi

Beautiful Scenery
Birdlife: Home to over 200 bird species
Cultural Experiences: Interact with Batwa and Bakiga communities
29 Unique Islands: Each island has its own story

Major Islands of Lake Bunyonyi

Akampene Island (Punishment Island)
Traditionally, girls who became pregnant before marriage were abandoned on this island as punishment, reflecting past cultural norms.
Nyuyeera Island
Known as the “sharp” island due to its shape.
Kahugye Island
Popular for game viewing with animals such as zebras, impalas, waterbucks, and antelopes.
Bwama Island
The largest island on the lake, historically used as a leprosy treatment center by Scottish missionaries. The facility now serves educational purposes.
Bushara Island
A paradise for bird watchers and home to the Bunyonyi Development Association.
Bucuranuka Island (“Upside Down Island”)
According to legend, this island turned upside down after an old woman cursed it when denied local brew.

Activities at Lake Bunyonyi

Bird Watching
Ideal for birding safaris, with over 200 species including herons, cranes, and weaver birds.
Mountain Biking
Ride through villages and hills with scenic lake views.
Cultural Tours
Visit the Batwa and Bakiga communities to learn about traditional lifestyles and customs.
Canoe Rides
Explore the lake and its islands in traditional canoes.
Nature Walks and Hiking
Enjoy leisurely hikes with local guides through villages and around the lake.
Swimming
The lake is safe for swimming with no hippos, crocodiles, or bilharzia, though only strong swimmers are advised due to its depth.
Crayfish Cuisine
Sample delicious crayfish dishes at local lodges and restaurants, known as the “poor man’s lobster.”
Island Hopping
Take guided canoe tours to explore multiple islands, each with its own history and charm.
Akampene Island Boat Ride
Visit the former Punishment Island and learn about its cultural history.
Local Markets
On Mondays and Fridays, visit Rutindo Market to interact with locals and experience Ugandan culture.

Best Time to Visit Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi is accessible year-round.

Dry Season (December–February): Best for activities like boat rides, nature walks, and scenic exploration.
Wet Season (March–November): Ideal for bird watching, as birds are more colorful and abundant during this time.

Getting to Lake Bunyonyi

By Road:
From Kampala, it takes about 6.5 hours to reach Kabale by bus. From Kabale, the lake is approximately 1.5 hours by car.

By Air:
Charter flights via Aerolink or Bar Aviation from Kajjansi Airfield to Kihihi Airstrip take around 1.5 hours. From Kihihi, it’s about 3 hours by road to Lake Bunyonyi.

Accommodation at Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi offers a range of accommodations including budget, mid-range, and luxury options. Some notable lodges include:

Bunyonyi Safaris Lodge
Bird’s Nest Resort
Arcadia Lodge
Bunyonyi Overland Resort
Byoona Amagara
Bushara Island Camp
Lake Bunyonyi Rock Resort
Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort
Hawk’s Eye Lodge Bunyonyi
Paradise Eco Hub
Edirisa Lodges
Crater Bay Cottages and Camp
Amasiko Homestay
Bunyonyi View Resort
Upendo Guest Home
Bugombe Island Gateway
Lost Paradise Beach
The Africa Explorer Eco Village

All these provide comfortable stays for visitors looking to explore Lake Bunyonyi and its surroundings.