Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda | Facts, Depth, History & Activities to do

Lake Bunyonyi is one of the most beautiful natural lakes in Uganda. It is a scenic freshwater body that is located in Southwestern Uganda, around Kabale.

From Kampala to Lake Bunyonyi, it is about a 439 km drive. This stunning lake alone comprises 29 islands, also surrounded by the steep terraced hills.

Unlike most Lakes in Uganda, Lake Bunyonyi is one of the very few freshwater bodies that is safe for swimming. It is free from bilharzia, hippos, and crocodiles.

Quick Facts About Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda

Location: Kabale District, Kigezi region in Southwestern Uganda.

Size: 25 km long & about 7km wide.

Altitude: 1962m.

Depth: Average depth is 39m. Maximum depth range is 40-44m.

Signature feature: This freshwater lake is featured on the 2000 Ugandan shilling note.

Lake Bunyonyi History & Formation

Lake Bunyonyi formed over 1,000 years ago following a lava flow from a volcano (when lava dammed a river valley). Its name translates to “the place of many little birds” thanks to its diverse bird species.

The Scenic Islands

The 29 Islands on this lake include the historical Punishment Island (Akampene), Kyahugye Island, Missionary Era & Bwama Island, Bushara Island, Njuyeera Island –Sharp’s Island, and Bucuranuka Island –Upside Down Island.

Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda and quick facts

The Punishment Island –Akampene

  • Akampene Island was once used by the Bakiga people to isolate the unmarried pregnant girls.
  • The young women were abandoned on Akampene Island as a way to shame them and also prevent premarital pregnancies.
  • Many of the abandoned girls starved/drowned while trying to swim back.
  • The men who couldn’t afford a bride price played a pivotal role in rescuing the girls from the island.

The Missionary Era & Bwama Island

  • This is the island where Dr. Leonard Sharp visited in 1921 and made remarkable transformation on it.
  • A leprosy treatment centre was created on Bwama Island in 1931.
  • The treatment centre served as a centre for those who were segregated due to leprosy.
  • Today, the former treatment centre has turned to be a local school.

Bushara Island

  • Excellent spot for birding, eco-tourism, and nature walks.

Njuyeera Island

  • This island lies near Bwama Island, and this is where Dr Leonard Sharp and family stayed.

Bucuranuka Island

  • Takes its name from a local legend where a group of brewing beer drinkers refused to share a drink with an old woman, thus causing the island to flip over.

Is Lake Bunyonyi the deepest in the world?

No, but it is Africa’s 2nd deepest Lake. Additionally, it is celebrated as the deepest Lake in Uganda.

Is it safe to swim in?

Yes, Lake Bunyonyi is 100% safe to swim in. It has no crocodiles, bilharzia, or hippos. But this is ideal for good swimmers. Note: the lake is deep, so ensure that you go swimming with a local expert present.

Activities -Possible Things to do

Swimming

L. Bunyonyi is an excellent spot to consider for swimming. After an exhausting day of adventures in or from the nearby Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, swimming is a perfect option to rejuvenate yourself again.

  1. Know your limits –The Lake is deep; therefore, avoid swimming out into the open middle of the lake.
  2. Concentrate around the lodge area. Make use of the marked swimming zones/enclosed pool-like areas.
  3. Do not go swimming alone.
  4. Stay visible.
  5. Be aware of the weather and consider swimming when the water is calm.

Walks/Hikes

It is possible to have a guided walk/hike around Bunyonyi with an expert. As you walk, expect the breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding landscapes.

Bird watching

Over 200 species of birds survive in L. Bunyonyi. The islands serve as their breeding spots, thus harboring several resident and migratory species. Some of the birds you may come across on a Lake Bunyonyi tour include Levillant cuckoos, grey-crowned cranes, slender-billed baglafetch, egrets, and herons.

Canoeing (Boat cruise)

It is a must-do on a visit to Lake Bunyonyi. Canoeing or a boat ride offers memorable experiences, with visitors having a chance to visit one of the beautiful islands. You can have a sunrise canoeing/boat ride or a sunset session, each promising you captivating experiences.

Community Visit/Cultural Experience

Get a chance to interact with locals- Bakiga people and understand their unique traditions, practices, and lifestyles. You can have a great time and also engage in several activities, including basket weaving. The community visit also comes with storytelling moments and an interaction with a herbalist.

Zip lining

For adventure seekers, an addition of zip lining is a perfect alternative to spice up your holiday. This is a newly introduced experience to visitors on a Lake Bunyonyi tour.

Hotels/Lodges –Where to Stay in & around Lake Bunyonyi

Best places to consider for overnight stay after/before adventures on Lake Bunyonyi include budget, midrange, & luxury.

  1. Arcadia Cottages.
  2. Eco Resort.
  3. Bunyonyi Rock Resort
  4. Bunyonyi Island Camp
  5. Bird’s Nest.
  6. Overland Resort
  7. Byoona Amagara Island Retreat

How to get to Lake Bunyonyi

  • Kampala-Lake Bunyonyi, about 7-8 hours’ drive. En route, you will have a stopover at the Equator around Kayabwe & lunch at the Igongo Cultural Centre.
  • Kigali to Lake Bunyonyi via Katuna border –Kabale.
  • Bwindi and Mgahinga to Bunyonyi.

Places Surrounding Lake Bunyonyi

  1. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park –best for gorilla trekking & golden monkey tracking
  2. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park –gorilla trekking & gorilla habituation
  3. Lake Mutanda –also best for relaxation and boat rides
  4. Kabale town –an amazing spot to make a stopover en route from Kigali to Lake Bunyonyi
  5. Rutinda Market –a vibrant market to find fresh fruits.