List of Islands in Lake Bunyonyi
List of Islands in Lake Bunyonyi: Lake Bunyonyi gets its name from a local word that means “small birds.” This is why the lake is often called a place of little birds. Lake Bunyonyi is located in the southwestern region of Uganda, between the districts of Kabale and Kisoro, close to the border with Rwanda. Lake Bunyonyi is widely known for being the deepest lake in Uganda and whole Africa after Lake Tanganyika in Tanzania. This lake is 25 kilometers long and 7 kilometers wide. It is 900 meters deep at its deepest point and is found at an elevation of 1962 meters above sea level. The surrounding slopes range from 2200 to 2471 meters high.
The steep hills in Lake Bunyonyi are farmed a lot, and the plants there stay green all year. This lake is a perfect destination to visit while on their safari in Uganda due to the fact that is always surrounded with the beautiful natures and a breathe taking atmosphere as the visitors capture panoramic and classic views of the beautiful natures for example it is a good place for a newly wedded couple to visit on their honey moon safari because it gives visitors the best time of relaxation. Tourists in lake bunyonyi are always offered opportunities to engage in different activities in the park as they explore and have a memorable and great adventurous moment and these activities include; Hiking and nature walks, bird watching due to the fact that it is a home to over 205 bird species, cultural encounters, mountain biking, community visits, swimming, canoeing which is known to be the most fascinating activity done on Lake bunyonyi as it also gives a chance to visitors to explore and tour around the lake with its 29 islands.
Islands in Lake Bunyonyi.
Lake Bunyonyi is among the best places for individuals to visit while on their safari in Uganda because it has many exciting places for example, it has around 29 islands and the most interesting and unique part of these is that each of them carries their own history. These islands include:
Bacuranuka Island.
Bacuranuka Island in history it is widely known as an island that is upside down. Everything changed when an old woman visited the island and discovered men making a local drink called “Obushera” in Rukiga, the local language. She then cursed it. This old woman requested the men to give her some of the local brew and they only offered to give aside to the main land, which she humbly agreed to, and later one of the men chose to take the woman to the mainland. As soon as the woman got to the shore, she cursed the island, which flipped over, while the men who stayed back were also burned.
Akampene Island.
Akampene Island, known as “Punishment Island,” is the smallest and most visited island among the 29 islands on Lake Bunyonyi due to its past. This is the island where they punished young girls who got pregnant before marriage. These girls were always ignored and abandoned as they were always left to starve and die on the island inform of their punishment. In their society, a girl who gets pregnant without being married brings great shame to her family, and they would not receive any bride price.
Kahugye Island.
Kahugye Island is a great spot for tourists looking for adventure. Visitors can enjoy game drives where they can see and take pictures of many types of wildlife, including zebras, waterbucks, and antelopes, since the island is home to many animals. When tourists explore Kahugye Island, they are always with park guides or guards who show them around.
Bushara Island.
Bushara Island is the top spot for bird watching trips in Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda. Bird-loving tourists have a great time visiting Bushara Island because they can see many different bird species, including the rare shoebill stork. It’s recommended to bring binoculars to get a good look at the birds, which makes for an enjoyable birdwatching experience.
Bwana Island.
Bwana Island is one of the five most popular islands visited in Lake Bunyonyi. This island is well-known for being the site of a leprosy refuge. This place has always helped people with leprosy, and a Scottish priest started it in the 1920s and 1930s. The treatment center is no longer open, so people often go to the Bwana center to see the old leprosy hospital and its remaining buildings. However, these buildings are now used as school facilities.
The islands mentioned above are some of the most popular ones in Lake Bunyonyi, but there are many others to explore as well. The best time for people planning a safari to Lake Bunyonyi is during the dry season, which is from June to August and December to February. Lake Bunyonyi is open all year round, so people can come whenever they want.
Lake Bunyonyi has places to stay.
Lake Bunyonyi has many places to stay, including budget, mid-range, and luxury options. Visitors can choose where to stay based on their preferences and income. The places to stay include Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort, Lake Bunyonyi Rock Resort, Lake Bunyonyi Overland Resort, Paradise Eco Hub, and Bunyonyi Safari Lodge, among others.
Here’s how to reach Lake Bunyonyi: 1. **By Car**: If you have a car, you can drive to Lake Bunyonyi. It is located in Uganda, about 8 km from Kabale town. 2. **By Bus**: You can take a bus from Kampala to Kabale. Once in Kabale, you can
Travelers going to Lake Bunyonyi on a tour can choose to travel by air or by road.
Road transport.
Tourists can choose to take a long trip driving about eight and a half hours from Kampala city to Kabale town. From there, they can take a short drive to Lake Bunyonyi.
Air Transport.
Tourists who have limited time or want to avoid long trips can book flights from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi Airstrip. This flight takes about 30 minutes, and then it’s only a short drive to Lake Bunyonyi.
If you have questions about the islands in Lake Bunyonyi, please reach out to our tour providers. For the best tour packages during your safari to Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda, book with us.
