Lake Bunyonyi is a beautiful lake found in southwestern Uganda in Kabale and Kanungu districts. It is the second deepest lake in Africa with a depth of 900 meters. The lake is approximately 25 km long and 7 km wide. It is surrounded by enormous highlands which are cultivated by the local people forming terraces which create such a beautiful pattern of greenery around the lake. Lake Bunyonyi is a wonderful place to relax and unwind after treks and adventures in the region, and enjoy the scenery and soothing cool weather. You can also dip in and take swim, as it is free of bilharzia and hippos and crocodiles do not inhabit it.

The name Bunyonyi means the "place of many little birds." Lake Bunyonyi has 29 islands which host some wildlife including birds. Some of the bigger islands have been bought for tourism and hotels have been constructed to host tourists. But more interesting about the islands of Lake Bunyonyi are the local stories and myths associated with them. The Akampene Island, also known as the 'Punishment Island' is where pregnant unmarried women were brought and left as a punishment for bringing shame to a family, as it was considered an abomination for a girl to get pregnant before marriage. They starved and died there and those who tried to swim back, drowned. On some occasions however unmarried young men who could not afford pride price to marry one of the village girls would ride to the Akampene Island and get for themselves an abandoned girl. Other island on Lake Bunyonyi are: Bushara, Kyahunge, Bwama, and Njuyeera (Sharp's island) among others.

The place is characterised by moderate temperatures and a cool weather that braces the areas in the mornings and evenings. This has made for the flourishment of green and lush terraced hills. For bird enthusiasts, the place is punctuated by a plethora of waterbirds with estimates indicating over 200 bird species. Several amphibians and fish species are also present on the lake. A dive into Nyombi swamp reveals more bird species, some of which are migratory. Fish species were originally not present in the lake but were introduced. Such species include examples like the Nile tilapia, red swamp cray fish and the cat fish among others. Apart from Birdwatching, Lake Bunyonyi is also ideal for swimming and other water activities. Such activities include sports like boat cruising and riding. The area is also underlined by hikes and nature walks. A sense of traditional culture is also felt during the community walks, since one can get stop overs at the Bakiga Cultural Museum as well as the blacksmith sites. For more cultural adventures, one can visit the village of Bufuka for the Bakiga and Batwa experiences.

Lake Bunyonyi is approximately 7 hours from Kampala and 3 hours from Kigali, Rwanda. 

Actvities include: Canoe Excursions, Boat Rides, Nature Walks, Birding, Mountain Biking, Community Walks, swimming etc.

Activities

Canoeing at Lake Bunyonyi

The canoe excursion is wonderful experience, especially on a misty morning, to explore the lake. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery around the lake, and visit some of the islands, while discovering their local storys. A canoe ride is a memorable and fantastic safari on the scenic lake Bunyonyi.
Canoe excursions can last from 2-3 hours up to a whole day. For those, who want to get the ultimate canoe experience on lake Bunyonyi can also book a tour of 2 or 3 or more days exploring the lake, its islands and the highlands that surround it. The lake Bunyonyi canoeing excurswsion is therefore a perfect weekend gateaway and works magic for those that have less time.

Swimming

Lake Bunyonyi is believed to be free of Bilharzia and also lacks dangerous animals like crocodiles and hippos which makes it safe for swimming. Experienced swimmers can swim to some of the islands, but should be mindful of the enormous depth of the lake. The best time for swimming is from December to February when the temperatures are generally higher all around Uganda. 
So, don't forget your swim wear when Lake Bunyonyi is part of your itinerary!

Hiking & Nature Walks around Lake Bunyonyi

From the shore of Lake Bunyonyi you can hike up the highlands and enjoy the beauty of the lake with its islands and mountainous scenery. Meet the locals in the highlands who are so welcoming and check out the garden terraces. This is also a great opportunity for all bird lovers to spot a number of species along the shores and in the highlands. Lake Bunyonyi is also called 'the place of many little birds'.