Lake Bunyonyi; the deepest lake in East Africa is located in South Western Uganda 7km west of Kabale. It is gifted with over 20 islands with steep terraced Kigezi hills and lcio green vegetation due to the favorable climate. All these compliment the breathtaking scenery in the area.

Africa Overland Safari

Formation of Lake Bunyonyi: The lake was formed over 1000 years ago when River Ndego was blocked by lava flowing from Virunga mountains. The water from the river led to stagnant water in the area which overtime led to the formation of Lake Bunyonyi.

Activities in Lake Bunyonyi

There are quite a number of activities in Lake Bunyonyi that could relish your safari and make it the prime experience.

Boat rides

With the vast scenery to enjoy along the lake Bunyonyi, a boat ride would give the best tour around these. There are boats to hire at the landing sites and with the help of a native guide you would get to know about the 29 islands in the area and get a front row seat to the traditional expo of the different tribes in the area.

Community visits and hikes

A hike around the hills is a life replenishing experience with the beautiful succulent green vegetation. The hike also reveals a view of the 29 islands. For one who wants to understand the way of living and the different traditional beliefs and culture, a walk around the different communities is high recommended.

Swimming

Lake Bunyonyi is a natural fresh water lake therefore it is safe for a refreshing swim on a hot sunny day. Though the lake has no natural shores, structures were put in place to ensure safety. After or before swimming, one can relax at the banks of the swim. Swimming is done throughout the day.

Bird watching

Lake Bunyonyi’s name is an indigeno name which when translated to English means “plenty of small birds”. Therefore basing on the name one should be sure to have a pre-eminent birding experience with plenty of bird species at the banks like the White-tailed blue monad, Red-chested sunbirds, Grey-crowned, Weavers, Flycatchers, Egrets, Slender-billed baglafetch, Herons, woodpeckers.

A visit to the local markets

We all enjoy carrying a souvenir back from a memorable safari and the local markets around Lake Bunyonyi have plenty of souvenirs like African crafts, clothes, shoes at the most affordable prices. While at the market you can also experience some of the native’s lifestyle; some people go to the market to hang out with their friends as they shop.

Canoe riding

Along Lake Bunyonyi, canoes are very popular means of transport. The natives e them to move from island to island for biness and social purposes. Canoe riding has to be done with a guide. The best part about the canoe experience is the pae in the middle to jt enjoy the view and the pae at the banks to gaze at the sunset. Canoe riding is safe along lake Bunyonyi becae the area is free of crocodiles and other scary aquatic animals.

A visit to the Batwa people

The Batwa are immigrants from the Democratic Republic of Congo and they live the Echuya Forest reserve. They migrated to Uganda after they were displaced from the land to e it for indtrialization. The Batwa are hunters who have an amazing relationship with the forest. A visit to the Batwa is really an adventuro experience.

Mountain biking

Lake Bunyonyi has numero trails and roads for biking along and the beautiful hills. The bike ride presents a magnificent view of the alluring islands. Bikes are available to hire at some of the accommodation facilities in the area. It is important to book before to avoid inconveniences.

Zip Lining

 This is a thrilling experience where you swing over the magnificent lake. For the adventuro people, a semi somersault when over the lake enables you touch the water. The equipment ed is strong, safe and tested.

Discovering the islands

Lake Bunyonyi has 29 islands that you get to explore ing your desired means of transport. Each island has a unique factor it. The popular islands on the lake include;

Akampene island: This island which is also known as the punishment island is the smallest island. Akampene is called the punishment island becae in the ancient days, it was abomination for a girl to get pregnant before wedlock and so; the victims were thrown on the island as a punishment. Overtime the tradition died when society became more dynamic.

Kyahugye island: The island is quite blessed with a number of wildlife like zebras, impalas and many others. A drive through the island will give perfect views of the wildlife and the lake.

Bhara island: This is perfect destination for the birders. The island reveals bird species with the aid of a pair of binoculars. The island also has accommodation facilities like Bhara island camp.

Bwama island: Bwama is one of the largest islands with a heavy human settlement. Back in the day the island was an isolation center for lepers. When Dr. Leonard Sharp came to Uganda he set up a treatment centre for these lepers. The hospital structures are still in existence and are being ed as hospitals and schools.

Bacuranuka island: This island is quite popular becae of the myth attached to it. The island is believed to be upside down becae of a curse that was put upon it by an angry old lady. The old woman asked a group of 20 men who were making a local brew called bhera for a sip but they were rude to her and refed to give her some. However when the old lady asked for a ride to the mainland they readily accepted, but she was still angry and cursed the island to turn upside down swallowing the “bhera”.

The lake has numero other islands however those are the popular islands.

In a nutshell a visit to Lake Bunyonyi would be full of fun, adventure, exploration, and one would create memories that would remain tattooed to their minds forever. The best was to enjoy this safari though would be through booking with Us.