Lake Bunyonyi – A natural wonder!
Lake Bunyonyi is a water body in southwestern Uganda between Kisoro and Kabale close Rwandan border, and one of the country’s top natural treasures. It`s believed to be the second deepest lake in Africa. And, at 1,962m above sea level. This lake enjoys moderate temperatures year round, cool in both the mornings and evenings. Most visitors make a stopover after gorilla trekking in nearby Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Lake Bunyonyi is framed by lush, green-terraced hills that reach a height of 2,200-2,478m, but it’s the 29 islands of various shapes and sizes scattered across the water that make it most magical . It’s a sight that reinvents itself every hour or two with the ever-changing climate and direction of the sun. Active travelers are catered for with canoes, kayaks and mountain bikes available for hire and enough potential excursions to keep them busy for days.
The beautiful Scenery of Lake Bunyonyi.
Lake Bunyonyi is characterized by lush, green-terraced hills that reach a height of 2,200-2,478m, but it’s the 29 islands of various shapes and sizes scattered across the water that make it most magical. It’s a sight that reinvents itself every hour or two with the ever-changing climate and direction of the sun. In the early morning, the islands weave through cotton candy-like streams of mist and, in the afternoon, they’re bathed in the warm glow of the sun. As evening approaches, there`s a mystical scene
Activities done at the lake.
Swimming: Lake Bunyonyi is known as one of the few lakes in Uganda free of bilharzia. Therefore swimming is allowed. It’s also free of dangerous wildlife like hippos and crocodiles. The only warning for visitors is the depth.
Riding a Canoe: The most common mode of transportation on these waters is the dugout canoe, which offers a completely different perspective of the lake.
Community Walks/ culture: Explore the settlements along the shores to experience everyday life among playful children, farmers and women wrapped in multi-colored kangas. A visit to the Batwa tribe of pygmies is a life time experience. The Batwa in this region, are one of the original inhabitants of the country but were dispossessed of their ancestral lands by the government to build the Echuya Forest Reserve with tragic consequences — today, their community suffers from rampant social problems. To survive, they invite tourists to their community, where they perform song and dance.
Hiking and Nature Walks: Hiring a local guide to lead you along the best hiking trails on the islands or through the terraces of the Kigezi highlands rewards with spectacular views of the landscapes and even some wildlife. Forest and tree plantations can be found on some of the islands, as Lake Bunyonyi:
Bird watching: Lake Bunyonyi takes its name from the abundant bird life that call it home. Over 200 species are found here, including herons, weaver birds and grey-crowned cranes plus migratory birds can also be seen here. Monkeys and zebras, Otters can also be spotted in the waters hence being regarded as a birders haven. The lake is also referred to as the place of little birds.
Islands: There are main islands which include; akampena/ punishment island, Bushara Island, kyahugye island, bwama and njuyeera (sharp’s island), bucuranuka / upside down island. These look unique and the views are breathtaking.
Accommodation: There are a number of lodges that one can stay and they offer excellent views of the natural wonder- Lake Bunyonyi. These range from luxury or up market, mid-range / standard accommodation and budget or basic accommodation.
Accessibility:
Lake Bunyonyi is 483.8km from Kampala via Kibale –Mbarara approximately 7hrs 48 minutes. To reach Lake Bunyonyi, make your way to the town of Kabale, about a seven hour bus ride from Kampala. From Kabale, the lake is 20-25 minutes by taxi.
