Lake Bunyonyi- A perfect blend of Island Gems

Still largely undiscovered, Lake Bunyonyi attracts the discerning few rather than many with its shores and islands uncrowded, untouched and the turquoise water warm and inviting. Further to the north most of its beauty is hidden as a true African Jewel.
The lake comprises of 29 Islands with a backdrop of the Virunga Volcanoes alongside the pleasant climate rendering it the perfect spot for a getaway.

Populated by natives’ homes and small stylish resorts, the lake attracts travellers eager to try out some canoe excursions, fishing, swimming, birding and fishing as they unwind and relax with the breeze from this beautiful lake. The landscape, the culture, the food, the amazing climate and the friendly Ugandan people treat the guests to a state of pure bliss on their Uganda Safari.

Explore the beautiful Lake Bunyonyi in different amazing ways

Lake Bunyonyi also known as the “place of little birds,” is a place of solace, quietness, reflection and tranquility after conducting a Gorilla safari traversing the hills and valleys in search of the Mountain Gorillas. It is a magical, stunningly beautiful Lake tucked away in the highlands of southwestern Uganda. This lake has a list of amazing activities that will last a lifetime in your memories as you explore its various islands surrounded by terraced farms and they include;

Swimming in Lake Bunyonyi

Take a swim in the bilharzia free lake, which is also one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes.
Lake Bunyonyi is the second deepest in Africa so please be mindful as you swim out into the lake by considering some safety precautions such as a nearby canoe or a buddy system.

Canoe excursion on the lake

Take a dugout canoe with a guide and discover the magical lake crossing it in a dugout Canoe as you explore the 29 Islands on the lake alongside the quaint Villages and the forest.
Dugout Canoeing on this lake has become quite popular, you can also opt for a motorized cruise of the lake with opportunities for sunset cruises, birding boat safaris or take overnight trips on the Lake and spending the night on an Island.

Relax on the shores

Relax and chill out on Lake Bunyonyi after a safari chilling out on an island or along the shores of the lake. It attracts many travelers, Ugandans and residents of other countries near Uganda to relax and chill out.

Hiking the Islands of Lake Bunyonyi

Hike the nature trails both on the Islands and around the Lake, the walks are not strenuous offering scenic views of nature around the lake. Some of the trials will lead you through small villages where you will meet Ugandans up close and personal.

Bicycle Riding around Lake Bunyonyi

Take a ride around the lake on a mountain bike as you enjoy the scenery and get a feel of authentic true Africa in Uganda as you take in the idyllic villages and hamlets.
The temperatures and weather offer the best time to take a bike ride will be most enjoyable and the Equatorial sun.

Boat cruise to Akamene or Punishment Island

Back in the day, the Bakiga People would take unwed pregnant girls to this Island and abandon them there to nature as a punishment for pregnancy before marriage. This act frightened other girls to abstain from sex outside of marriage. A boat ride here with a guide who knows the story and history of the Island will be organised to make you ride memorable.

Birding Safaris on the Islands

Also known as the place of little birds, Lake Bunyonyi is home to over 200 bird species with opportunities of conducting a birding safari while on a boat cruise on some of the various islands surrounding.
It is a great birders haven wit chances of viewing the gray-crowned cranes, red-chested sunbirds and many flycatchers.

Cultural and Community encounters

Conduct cultural visits in villages, hamlets on the islands or in the surrounding countryside where you will encounter the Batwa people who were the original people who inhabited the forest and today struggle in their quest of survival away from their beloved forest.

Where to stay while on a Lake Bunyonyi tour

Lake Bunyonyi is a perfect relaxation destination after a long Gorilla Trek or a hiking adventure as you chillout or take a boat ride on the lake.They are various lodging choices in Lake Bunyonyi covering all travellers from the budget to midrange and upmarket and some of them include;

Birdnest Bunyonyi Resort Heritage Lodge, Habuharo
Arcadia Lodges Lake Bunyonyi
Paradise Eco-Hub
Arcadia Cottage Lake Bunyonyi
Byoona Amagara Island Retreat
Lake Bunyonyi Rock Resort
Bunyonyi Safaris Resort
Kalebas Camp
Amasiko Homestay
Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort
Bunyonyi Overland Resort

Lake Bunyonyi should be included on your bucket list of the places to visit on your Uganda Safari as it helps you relax and chill out from the strenuous activities like Gorilla trekking and Volcano Hiking. At Ganyana Safaris we will ensure that you have a perfect time while on your
Lake Bunyonyi tour.