Visit to Lake Bunyonyi
At Lake Bunyonyi, there are plenty of things to do, including swimming, dugout canoeing, island hopping, boating, hiking, birding, village excursions, nature walks, and interactive cultural visits. It’s also the perfect place to chill. Experiences like this are unforgettable because of the virunga volcanoes and mountains, the 29 islands in this lake, their breathtaking settings, and the nice weather. Learn how to get there by tracking the route after going on a gorilla trekking expedition in Bwindi, or by following the Mbarara Kabale road from Kampala.
The term “little birds,” Bunyonyi, refers to the many weaver colonies that sag along the seashore. Larger birds are also in evidence, such as egrets, herons, grey-crowned cranes, and African harrier hawks. Frequently sighted birds include the Levillant cuckoo, white-tailed monad, slender-billed baglafetch, cardinal woodpecker, and African kingfisher.
The people there have skillfully farms surrounding the mountains and the large, asymmetrical lake, which resemble parts of Nepal. The lake itself has many islets. With activities like hiking, cycling, and canoeing, the area is lively.
Its high-altitude location, which guarantees a mild climate (that frequently gets very chilly at night) and a comparatively low prevalence of malaria, is another benefit. Swimming in the lake is very safe because, based on credible information from health authorities; it is free of hippos, crocodiles, and bilharzia.
Active travelers will love the easy access to rental mountain bikes, canoes, and kayaks, as well as the plethora of options for day trips that will keep them occupied for several days.
Suggested Safari Itineraries
Things to do around Lake Bunyonyi
Adventure visitors love Lake Bunyonyi because of the region’s limitless recreational opportunities. A canoe journey on the lake can be easily arranged thanks to the many guesthouses, campgrounds, and locals that offer canoes for rent.
Paddling a Canoe
A popular past time and the majority of campers lease their dugouts. Prices are reasonable but need some practice before doing a comprehensive tour of the islands. A common practice among travelers is the “mzungu,” or circular tour.The “mzungu,” or circular tour, is a popular activity among tourists.
Guided Nature Walks
Numerous trekking possibilities in the surrounding natural environment are available. Guided walking safaris around Lake Bunyonyi are a popular activity that guests usually reserve via campgrounds or the venerable Nkuringo Walking Safaris operator.
Take a boat across the lake and hike the last 40 km (29 miles) to Kisoro if you’re feeling adventurous. If, instead, you would rather a leisurely stroll along the shores of the lake, it is easy enough to find your own path.
For 30k shillings per day ($10), you can rent a mountain bike from Bunyonyi Overland Camp, which is a great way to explore the lakeside. But getting to Kabale would need a level of exertion comparable to the Tour de France, comparable to that of a mountain king.
Sunset Cruises
It’s possible to reserve a very popular spot on one of Lake Bunyonyi’s popular sunset excursions for visitors. As they take in the stunning scenery and vibrant sunsets, visitors are encouraged to pack their favorite food and beverages along with their cameras for the one-hour trip.
Please be aware that our open motorized boat offers the majority of tours during the fall. You will always remember our Sun Downer boat cruise on Lake Bunyonyi. With a variety of onboard beverages, you will tour the most famous of the 29 Islands.
Bunyonyi Cycling Tours
You can also take a mountain bike ride around the lake to take in the people, villages, hamlets, and landscape while experiencing real Africa in Uganda. Because of the height, the temperature and weather are so pleasant that you may enjoy a bike ride without worrying about being burned by the equatorial sun.
You will have a guide or a safari vehicle nearby to assist you in case you need it throughout the bike rides, which can last for the entire day or just a few hours.
Lake Bunyonyi Birding
Over 200 different species of birds can be seen in Bunyonyi, which is named after a spot where small birds live. From some of the many islands that encircle the lake’s borders, you may have an excellent bird boat safari with a personal birding guide. Moreover, you can combine a motorized boat safari or a dugout canoe with birdwatching on one of the 29 islands in the lake.
The Cultural Experience of Lake Bunyonyi
Participants in these interactive cultural tours within the communities, towns on islands, or enclosed fields include the Batwa pygmies, who were the original residents of the forest and now struggle to exist outside of their beloved forest.
In addition, we may arrange for you to stay in a village home while visiting a school and a local market. Learn how to take care of the garden where food is grown and gathered, as well as how to cook in the traditional manner.
Suggested Safari Itineraries
6 Days
Private
6-Days Murchison Falls & Queen Elizabeth Safari with Big 5 Sightseeing
from
$ 1350
per person
How to Get to Bunyonyi Lake
An all-weather dirt road connects Kabale to Rutinda, the center of tourism activity on Lake Bunyonyi. Proceed 500 meters from Kabale and turn into the Kisoro Road if you are driving yourself. Turn left at a junction soon after passing a Kobil petrol station. Here, several signposts point to various lakefront resorts.
About five kilometers away, at the top of the hill above Bunyonyi, is where the road stops. Proceed straight to Rutinda after 2km or turn left towards Acacia Cottages.
The road that splits off to the right at this intersection offers beautiful views over the lake after about 20 kilometers and emerges at Muko on the main Kabale—Kisoro Road.
Vehicles traveling to Bushara Island can be securely parked in the Rutinda parking compound on the island. Lake Bunyonyi Overland Camp offers safe mainland parking for a nominal fee.
The Lake Bunyonyi Overland Camp offers a twice-daily shuttle to Rutinda for individuals without access to private transportation. Daily departure times for the van are 09.30 and 16.30 from Kabale in front of the Highland Inn. It costs 5K shillings each person. It will take several, depending on demand, to make the trip for one passenger.
The best time to visit Lake Bunyonyi
The dry months of June through August and December through February are the ideal times to explore Lake Bunyonyi. If you talk to us about your specific passions, we can work those into your calendar.
In summary
Lake Bunyonyi is a fantastic destination for honeymooners and anybody else wishing to escape Kampala’s bustle. It’s a fantastic choice for families on vacation as well. The vicinity of Lake Bunyonyi would be perfect.
Friendly Gorillas Editor
Uganda gorilla trekking specialists focusing on delivering unforgettable gorilla experiences at unbeatable prices.
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