Lake Bunyonyi: Best Place to Chill Out in Uganda

Situated in Southwestern Uganda, Lake Bunyonyi is one of the most remarkable water bodies in Africa. It lies within a flooded valley system that extends Northwards from Rwanda border for about 25 kilometers and crosses through the line of the steep hills which separates Kabale and Kisoro districts in Southwestern Uganda. It is famous as one of the most fascinating spots with variety of attractions for visitors to enjoy while on safari in Uganda.

Lake Bunyonyi is noted to have formed way back about 8000 million years ago and the process of its creation was as a result of Lava flow which evolved from one of the Virunga Mountain ranges and able to cover the Ndego River and when it continued, it covered the River that is identified as River Marko and as at the end led to creation of a dam. Lake Bunyonyi spans for about 60 square kilometers and it is one of the attractive destinations worth exploring while on holiday in Uganda.

Community Tour Around Lake Bunyonyi

This tremendous Lake features as the deepest Lake in Uganda and the second deepest in the entire Africa and combines the Ruvuma swamps and other several permanent wetlands. A visit to Lake Bunyonyi rewards visitors with amazing and lifetime experiences especially with the 29 distinct Islands that are confined within this magnificent water body. The Islands come with interesting historical background of local residents who are lived around the area before.

One of the unique islands is the Punishment Island (Akampene). It is the tiny and magical on its own and it comes with 29 inlets, holds a dark reputation especially of a pregnant, unmarried girls were noted to be exiled in this island as a way of starvation or drown if they tried to swim away. The Lake stands within the fragmented land with stunning, green terraced hills that stretch up to 2200 to 2478 meters. The Islands vary in shapes and sizes and they are all scattered across the Lake making it one of the magical attractions in the region.

For several years, Lake Bunyonyi has featured on the world map due to its notable lodges, resorts, campsites that are spread around the Lake and they provide the first class services to the national and the international tourists on safari in Uganda. Lake Bunyonyi is situated in high elevation of about 1962 meters above sea level and it ranks among the strategic sites that come with moderate climate which rewards visitors with chilly and relaxed moments especially at night. Some of the lodges include the Arcadia Cottages, Bunyonyi Overland Resort, Bunyonyi Rock Resort, Bird Nest Resort and many others.

Diving and Swimming

If you love water sports, consider visiting Lake Bunyonyi, a must while on safari in Uganda. This Lake is free from Bilhazia, hippos and crocodiles and this makes it ideal for swimming, canoe kayaks as well as other activities like guided trail-walks, bamboo walk, mountain bikes, excursions and many more. The community walks take you through the local settlements around the Lake shores to explore the daily life among the playful children, farmers and women wrapped in multi colored kangas.

One of the most interesting community walks in the area includes hike to the Batwa community to visit the famous Batwa pygmies who feature as the forest dwellers who co-existed with the forest for over 500.000 years. If you are hiker or adventure enthusiast then consider Lake Bunyonyi one of your favorite sites that reward you with life changing experiences. While at this place, you will explore the terraces of the magnificent Kigezi highlands as you enjoy the stunning views of the landscapes and some wildlife species. For bird lovers, there are about 200 bird species and they include herons, weaver birds and grey crowned cranes.

Gorilla Trekking

From Lake Bunyonyi, you can go gorilla trekking in either Bwindi or Mgahinga National Parks. This is lessthan 3 hr drive. One must leave Lake Bunyonyi by 06;00 hrs in the morning and drive to Mgahinga or Bwindi National parks depending on your gorilla permit.

Gorilla Tracking in Uganda

Getting to Lake Bunyonyi

To visit Lake Bunyonyi you have to make a journey to Kabale which is approximately 8 to 9 hours drive on road from Kampala. From Kabale, the Lake is accessible within half an hour by taxi.

In conclusion, Lake Bunyonyi is exceptionally one of the most magnificent destinations that you should visit while on safari in Uganda. If you are traveling for mountain gorilla trekking to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga National Park, consider Lake Bunyonyi a must in your buck list.